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*Dear, Mich-Organic Listserv readers: The information offered in the
Michigan Organic Listserv is for your information and not necessarily
endorsed by Michigan State University.*





*Michigan Organic*
*Listserv*
*December 10, 2010*

*

**Information Request*




*Request for Grower Experience - Good, Bad or Ugly - with Organic Peach and
Plum Production*


posted on November 16, 2010 21:29

NCAT horticulture specialist Guy Ames is embarking on a comprehensive update
of our ATTRA publication Organic & Low-Spray Peach Production (2003),
probably also incorporating information on organic and low-spray plum
production. They are interested in institutional research but also GROWER
EXPERIENCE.

Because farmers (especially organic farmers) are so often conducting their
own research, and because organic production of peaches and plums is so
difficult, Guy is interested in what worked for growers and--just as
important--what didn’t work. He is especially interested in grower
experience in the humid eastern half of the U.S., but information from
anywhere would be helpful.

If you are willing to talk to Guy and share your experiences and
information, write him at [log in to unmask]

*Source: *The New Agriculture Network http://www.new-ag.msu.edu/.


 *USDA Seeks Comments on Organic Guidance*, *Dec. 2010 Issue of Vegetable
Growers News*

USDA is inviting public comment on draft guidance issued by the National
Organic Program (NOP).

“The organic community has had to navigate some complex issues,” said Miles
McEvoy, NOP’s deputy administrator. “Our goal is to provide clear guidance
to ensure consistent implementation of the organic standards.”

Topics addressed include: compost and vermicompost in organic crop
production; wild crop harvesting; outdoor access for organic poultry;
commingling and contamination prevention in organic production and handling;
and use of chlorine materials in organic production and handling.

The guidance documents, available in draft form on the NOP website at
www.ams.usda.gov/NOPDraftGuidance, are intended to assist those who own,
manage or certify organic operations in carrying out their responsibilities
by providing a uniform method for complying with the national organic
standards and conducting audits and inspections. The topics covered in these
documents also address recommendations issued by the USDA Office of
Inspector General in a March 2010 audit report of NOP.
*
NOP will consider all comments submitted by Dec. 13*, before issuing final
guidance for inclusion in the Program Handbook. The public can view the
documents and provide comments through the preferred method at
www.regulations.gov (document number AMS-NOP-10-0048), or by mail to Toni
Strother, Agricultural Marketing Specialist, National Organic Program,
USDA–AMS–NOP, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 2646 So., Ag Stop 0268,
Washington, DC 20250–0268.

Once finalized, the guidance documents will be incorporated into the Program
Handbook: Guidance and Instructions for Accredited Certifying Agents and
Certified Operations, which serves as a central reference for clarification
about NOP standards and best program practices. The current edition of the
Program Handbook is available at www.ams.usda.gov/NOPProgramHandbook, or in
print upon request.

NOP will announce a notice of availability of final guidance, when
available. For more information, call NOP at (202)720-3252; e-mail
[log in to unmask]; or visit www.ams.usda.gov/nop.


*Published in The Vegetable Growers News, December Issue, Volume 44, Number
12, http://vegetablegrowersnews.com/.


 *Upcoming Events of Interest*



*The 12th annual Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference, Walking the Walk:
Bold Steps Toward a Regional Food System*


*
When: *January 22, 2011

*Where:* Grayling High School, Grayling MI.

*Why:* The conference serves as a vehicle to promote and build a local
vibrant agriculture community, to equip the small farm community with the
tools to be successful, and to be a forum for the open exchange of ideas
within the small farm community.

*Possible Sessions of Interest:*

   - *Sustainable, Organic, Green, Fresh and Natural:  Does the Emperor Have
   Clothes?* - Melinda Hemmelgarn- A greenwashing expose.  Come spruce up
   your green vocabulary and learn how to make true earth-friendly food
   choices.
   - *Legislation, Laws, Regulations and What They May Mean to Your Farm –
   GAP Part 1* -  Elaine Brown (click on name to see presentation) and
   Colleen Collier Bess (click on name to see presentation) – So you think you
   know what Good Agriculture Practices are, but do you know what “flavors” are
   being asked for?  An overview of the program, and first hand discussions
   with a USDA GAP auditor.
   - *Sustainable Hops Production in the Great Lakes Region *– Rob Sirrine –
   Hops are a novel crop with plenty of potential to be grown in Michigan.
   This talk will provide participants with information needed to grown and
   market hops in Michigan.
   - *Our Farm Experience with GAP - GAP Part 2 - Grower Pane*l- How the
   program has both positively and negatively affected us.  Working with your
   retailer to make the program work for both of you.
   - *Farm to School: * A Great Opportunity in Your Community – Renee
   DeWindt, Kristen Misiak - Hear from two food service directors about their
   experiences with Farm to School, and how you as a farmer can partner with
   your local school.  You’ll hear a broad perspective of what is possible in
   various schools, how farmers can help develop the partnership, and what
   challenges you and your school may have to overcome.
   - *Local Food Funding and Entrepreneur Opportunities* - Susan Loney &
   Shelly Fuller - Emerging business opportunities in support of the Food &
   Farming Network in Northern Michigan, available support services and funding
   options.
   - *And Much More! *http://smallfarmconference.com/sessions-2/*.*

*How: Registration deadline is January 23, 2010* (Registration includes
Saturday Keynote, sessions, lunch and breaks),* Cost:* $50 for 1st person,
each additional person in the $35, and youth is $20. Sorry NO REFUNDS - Late
or Walk in Registration will be charged additional $15 per person.
Registration form can be found at the Northern Michigan Small Farm
Conference web site http://smallfarmconference.com/.



 <http://goog_910260086/>

*8th Annual* *Michigan Family Farms (MIFFS) Conference*



*When:* January 15, 2011

*Where:* Lakeview High School, Battle Creek, MI

*Why: *This year’s conference is entitled *“Rising to the Challenges- Local
Farms, Local Food, Local Pride"*. Come and discuss challenges and growth
opportunities for family farms. Connect with other growers and great
resources, network, and learn about organic certification, hoophouses,
agritourism and local markets, urban school gardening, food safety, niche
marketing, alternative energy, CSAs and much more.  Don Coe of Black Star
Farms in Suttons Bay, MI. is this year’s keynote speaker.  He will share how
he transformed his vineyard into one of the most successful agritourism
destinations in the state. Exhibits and displays will be set up for your
enjoyment to connect you to government agencies, nonprofits and agricultural
groups and organizations.

*Possible Sessions of Interest Related to Organic:*

   - *Becoming Organically Certified: Steps and Strategies* - Vicki Morrone,
   C.S. Mott Group at MSU; Lee & Laurie Arboreal, Eaters’ Guild Farm and CSA -
   Getting an organic certification for your farm isn’t always easy, even if
   you’re already using organic growing methods. Check out some steps and
   strategies to successfully getting that certification.
   - *Food Safety: It Matters *- Shelly Hartmann, True Blue Farms*- *Food
   safety is a hot topic in agriculture right now, for large and small farms
   alike. Learn how it affects your operation and how to get GAP certified.
   - *SARE Grant Writing *– Dale Mutch, Dean Bass, MSU Extension - Preparing
   a Farmer/Rancher Grant Learn to prepare a Sustainable Agriculture Research
   and Education (SARE) proposal to do research, marketing or demonstration
   projects on your farm.
   - *Hoophouses: Economic Realities and Cost-Share Opportunities* - Dr.
   John Biernbaum, Adam Montri, MSU Dept. of Horticulture; Steve Law, USDA NRCS
   - It takes more than cost-sharing and discounts for a hoophouse to make you
   money. Learn how to be successful and who can help you get there.
   - *Hoophouses: Talking about Structures* - Dr. John Biernbaum and Adam
   Montri, MSU Dept. of
   Horticulture - Thinking about adding a hoophouse to your farm and
   expanding your growing season? This is the place to start. Learn about
   structures themselves here.
   - *And Much More!* http://www.miffs.org/mffc/2011/2011MFFCbrochure.pdf.

*To be an exhibitor, contact MIFFS. You must be an exhibitor to sell any
products or goods of any kind.

*How: Registration deadline is January 7, 2010 *(Registration includes
keynote speaker, lunch featuring local foods, and sessions) *.
Cost:*$30/each for members, Adults- $35/each non members, Children-
$25/each (up
to 16yrs old). Register online at the MIFFS website
http://web2.canr.msu.edu/miffs/registration.cfm.

*For more information*, visit www.miffs.org/mffc or contact the MIFFS office
at (517) 432-0712 or
[log in to unmask]


 *MOSES 22nd Annual 2011 Organic Farming Conference*


*When:* February 24-26, 2011

*Where: *The La Crosse Center, Lacrosse, WI

*Why:* Come enjoy an educational weekend packed with 70+ workshops, 150+
exhibitors, terrific food, entertainment, acres of food and farming books,
and plenty of time and space to network.

*Organic Topics Include:*

   - Healthy Soils
   - Field Crops
   - Market Farming
   - Livestock
   - Marketing & Business
   - Download conference brochure
<http://www.mosesorganic.org/ofcflyer.pdf>for detailed information on
topics.

*How: Register by Jan 15 to save $20*. *Cost:* Full registration $175 before
Jan 15 ($195 after Jan 15). Registration is also available for Friday and
Saturday only.  Print off registration form and download conference brochure
at the MOSES website, www.mosesorganic.org.

*
New Farm Business Partnership Opportunity*

*
*

*Owner of a Small Vegetable Farm is Looking for a Partner to Run the Farm
Operation in 2011.*



*Location:* 30 minutes east of Columbus near Granville, OH
*
Description: *About 2.5 usable acres. Additional barns, chicken coop, and
some pasture with great potential for animals and a small orchard. Presently
have tables at the Granville, Clintonville, and Worthington summer farmers
market.

*Potential Partner Experience: *Experience is necessary. It would be a great
opportunity for someone who has worked on farms, but does not have money to
buy land and equipment to start their own. Pay would be based on profit
sharing. Someone looking for a long term position would be best. There is a
possibility for on-farm housing. Please send work experience and contact
info to [log in to unmask]

*
***

*Farming Opportunities*


*
*

*Farming Opportunity in SE Ohio*


**

A couple in SE Ohio is seeking a young couple with energy to work on shares.


*
*

*Land Description: *

   - 170+ acres
   - Half pasture/half wooded
   - Organic since 2003, not farmed 10 years prior
   - Currently raising pigs, sheep, and Angus cattle
   - Rotational grazing and hay
   - Looking to expand into pastured poultry and CSA veggies
   - Open to new ideas

 For more information contact, [log in to unmask]



*Classifieds*


*Truck for sale (farming truck) - Columbus, OH Area*

*
Description:*

   - 1997 Ford 350 Flatbed Stake Sides
   - 152,000 Miles
   - 1,000 Miles on New Clutch
   - 3,000 Miles on Front End

*
Price: *$3,200
*
If interested: *Contact Mark at (614) 358-7838. Photos available on
announcement tab at www.michiganorganic.msu.edu.



*WANTED Organic Alfalfa*


Seeking 60 tons of dry (no baleage) organic alfalfa with a RFV 150 or over
and protein 18-22.  Large round or square preferred with delivery to
Michigan.

If anyone can supply this contact John, [log in to unmask]



*Walk In Cooler for Sale - Columbus, OH*


*Walk in Cooler Description:*

   - Large (35'x18') walk in cooler.
   - Works great.
   - Can be made smaller or larger based on need.
   - Assembled, you would need to disassemble and move it. Panels connected
   by camlocks for easy disassemble.
   - Two Bonn evaporator units and a Witt condenser/compressor unit.

*Cost:* MAKE OFFER

*If interested*: Call Josh Goodson (740)817-4098

*
*

*News*
*USDA Announces Cut-Off Date for 2011 Conservation Funds*

EAST LANSING, Dec. 10, 2010 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture has
announced a cut-off date of Jan. 19 for 2011 financial assistance from two
conservation programs. The programs provide financial assistance for
implementing conservation practices and for improving wildlife habitat.

“Landowners and agricultural producers should contact their local USDA
Service Center as soon as possible if they are seeking conservation
financial assistance during 2011,” said State Conservationist Garry Lee of
the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Financial assistance is available through the Environmental Quality
Incentives Program and the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program which are
administered by NRCS. Applications for both programs are accepted on a
continuous basis however only applications received by the cut-off date will
be ranked and considered for the current funding cycle.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program provides financial assistance
for conserving natural resources on agricultural land. The program
reimburses 75 percent of the estimated cost for implementing a variety of
conservation measures to conserve soil, water and air resources. Some
eligible conservation measures include animal waste storage facilities,
windbreaks, field residue management, prescribed grazing practices and pest
management.
Landowners who want to improve wildlife habitat on their property can
receive financial assistance through the Wildlife Habitat Incentives
Program. The program provides financial assistance of up to 75 percent of
the estimated cost for improving wildlife habitat. Some eligible practices
under the program include tree and shrub plantings, native grass and
wildflower establishment and forest stand improvements.

Socially disadvantaged, limited resource and beginning farmers may be
eligible for a higher rate of financial assistance and other benefits under
these programs. For more information contact your local USDA Service Center
or visit the NRCS-Michigan Web site at www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov.

*Source:* United States Department of Agriculture/Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Marketing Opportunities,
http://www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov/news/michigan_news_releases.html

* *

*First of Five Michigan Good Food Work Group Reports Has Been Released*


 *
This report provides:*

   - A vision for institutional food purchasing in Michigan
   - Analysis of the current state of local food purchasing in Michigan
   schools, hospitals and universities
   - Indicators to track institutional purchasing of local food
   - Descriptions of the agenda priorities related to institutional food
   purchasing from the Michigan Good Food Charter and suggestions for
   implementing them

Anyone working to support schools, hospitals and universities buy more of
their food from in Michigan, anyone looking to understand more about the
challenges and opportunities institutions have in their food purchasing, and
anyone wanting to help implement the charter priorities in this arena will
want to read this report.

The report, authored by Val George, Colleen Matts and Susan Schmidt with
input from more than 20 work group contributors, is available for download
at www.michiganfood.org.

The other reports in the series will be released in the following months.


*Announcement/Opportunity*

* *

*Season Extension Pest Management Webinar Update*


The season extension pest management webinar series is now over, here is
brief update on how well it was received.

There were 226 total online registrants from 26 states and 4 provinces.  The
attendance for webinar 1 was 192, webinar 2 was 197, webinar 3 was 149,
webinar 4 was 89, and webinar 5 was 69.

Each webinar had its own evaluation which is listed below.  There are a few
paper surveys which have not been received or entered, but this is the
majority of the feedback.  This information will be used in our IPM Summit
on High Tunnels immediately following our annual meeting in March

   - *Web 1: *(
   http://www.surveymonkey.com/sr.aspx?sm=PRRVScmp1Mb3_2bS4PrQPL78grrO0r5Ebwyn0jRURAe3U_3
   d)
   - *Web 2:* (http://www.surveymonkey.com/sr.aspx?sm=sY_2fC0P8SHIpe9RHOMk1ge_
   2fcnbpyLWmXjKqKIFe7NEio_3d<http://www.surveymonkey.com/sr.aspx?sm=sY_2fC0P8SHIpe9RHOMk1ge_2fcnbpyLWmXjKqKIFe7NEio_3d>
   )
   - *Web 3:* (
   http://www.surveymonkey.com/sr.aspx?sm=ifhBOEPVeNGKklmDHrshsAv4Hpr_2fHWJvbIZuQjUNVnI_3d
   )
   - *Web 4: *(
   http://www.surveymonkey.com/sr.aspx?sm=6qqIiCxXXcLjVDMconBrvJwCVQ57iuseFceduS_2bvYyE_3d
   )
   - *Web 5:* (
   http://www.surveymonkey.com/sr.aspx?sm=huIshHiTu8CLGk_2f_2fbZWmjydNEjzbAvj1QyzBCyuYlAs_3d
   )



*Vegetable Production News*

*
*

*The federal Court Ordered the GM Beets Planted in Defiance of the Law Must
Be Removed*


Federal Court Orders First-Ever Destruction of a GMO Crop Posted on November
30, 2010 by center for food safety.

*Court Orders Removal of Genetically Engineered Sugar Beet Seed Crop; Finds
Government and Monsanto rushed to illegally plant herbicide resistant crop.*

Today Federal District Judge Jeffrey S. White issued a preliminary
injunction ordering the immediate destruction of hundreds of acres of
genetically engineered (GE) sugar beet seedlings planted in September after
finding the seedlings had been planted in violation of federal law. The
ruling comes in a lawsuit filed by Earthjustice and Center for Food Safety
on behalf of a coalition of farmers, consumers, and conservation groups. The
lawsuit was filed on September 9, shortly after the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) revealed it had allowed the seedlings to be planted.

The court outlined the many ways in which GE sugar beets could harm the
environment and consumers, noting that containment efforts were insufficient
and past contamination incidents were "too numerous" to allow the illegal
crop to remain in the ground. In his court order, Judge White noted,
"farmers and consumers would likely suffer harm from cross-contamination"
between GE sugar beets and non-GE crops. He continued, "the legality of
Defendants' conduct does not even appear to be a close question," noting
that the government and Monsanto tried to circumvent his prior ruling, which
made GE sugar beets illegal.

Paul Achitoff of Earthjustice, lead counsel for the plaintiffs, said, "USDA
thumbed its nose at the judicial system and the public by allowing this crop
to be grown without any environmental review. Herbicide resistant crops just
like this have been shown to result in more toxic chemicals in our soil and
water. USDA has shown no regard for the environmental laws, and we're
pleased that Judge White ordered the appropriate response."

Plaintiff Center for Food Safety's Senior Staff Attorney George Kimbrell
said, "Today's decision is a seminal victory for farmers and the environment
and a vindication of the rule of law. The public interest has prevailed over
USDA's repeated efforts to implement the unlawful demands of the biotech
industry."

The plaintiffs-The Center for Food Safety, Organic Seed Alliance, High
Mowing Organic Seeds, and the Sierra Club-had immediately sought a court
order to halt the planting. On September 28 Judge White ruled that USDA's
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) had violated the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by allowing the plantings without analyzing
the potential environmental, health, and socioeconomic impacts of growing GE
sugar beets. Judge White heard testimony from the parties during a three-day
hearing in November before issuing today's ruling.

Monsanto created "Roundup Ready" crops to withstand its Roundup herbicide
(with the active ingredient glyphosate), which it then sells to farmers
together with its patented seed, for which it charges farmers a substantial
"technology fee." Earlier this year, the Department of Justice announced it
had opened a formal investigation into possible anticompetitive practices in
Monsanto's use of such patented crops. Growing previous Roundup Ready crops
such as soy, cotton, and corn have led to greater use of herbicides. It also
has led to the spread of herbicide resistant weeds on millions of acres
throughout the United States and other countries where such crops are grown,
and contamination of conventional and organic crops, which has been costly
to U.S. farmers. There is also evidence that such herbicide-resistant crops
may be more susceptible to serious plant diseases.

In an earlier case the court ruled that USDA had violated NEPA by allowing
the crop to be commercialized without first preparing an Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS). In August the court made any future planting and
sale unlawful until USDA complies with federal law. (USDA has said it
expects to complete an EIS in spring 2012.) But almost immediately after the
ruling, USDA issued permits allowing companies to plant seedlings to produce
seed for future Roundup Ready sugar beet crops, even though the crops are
still illegal to grow, and no EIS has been prepared. The seed growers rushed
to plant the seed crop in Oregon and Arizona, apparently hoping to outrun
the legal action to stop it. In this latest case, USDA argued that the
seedlings were separate from the rest of the sugar beet crop cycle and had
no impact by themselves, but Judge White rejected this. He found that the
law requires USDA to analyze the impacts of not only the seedlings, but the
rest of the Roundup Ready sugar beet production process as well, before any
part of that process can begin.

Courts have twice rescinded USDA's approval of biotech crops. The first such
crop, Roundup Ready alfalfa, is also illegal to plant, based on the vacating
of its deregulation in 2007 pending preparation of an EIS. Although Monsanto
appealed that case all the way to the Supreme Court and the High Court set
aside part of the relief granted, the full prohibition on its planting -
based on the same initial remedy granted here, the vacatur - remains in
place.

This case is Center for Food Safety v. Vilsack, No. C10-04038 JSW (N.D. Cal.
2010).



*Job Opportunities and Internships*



*Hyde Park Farmers' Market - Market Manager* *Needed*


*Location: *Cincinnati, OH

*Position Description:* Seeking an energetic individual, passionate about
local sustainably grown food.  The market runs every Sunday, June - October
from 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., on Hyde Park Square from June – September, and
in the US Bank parking lot in October.  The manager is there to make sure
the market runs smoothly, put out our signs, sell water & market bags,
provide information, run the "market booth" displaying literature,
coordinate special programs (such as chef demonstrations & tastings) and
music, and help connect customers with vendors. The manager also uses
Facebook and Twitter to promote the market.  This is a paid position.  The
number of hours varies, depending on the individual interest and market
needs.
*
How to Apply:* Send a resume to Mary Ida Compton at [log in to unmask] or
(513) 561-1205.


*Applications are Now Being Accepted for the 2011 CEFS Small Farm Unit Work
Study Positions in Sustainable Agriculture and Local Food Systems.*



*
Location:* Goldsboro, North Carolina
*
Two options available: *9 month summer (February through October) and 4
month winter (February through October) apprenticeship program. During the
apprenticeship, independent projects are encouraged. During the
apprenticeship, independent projects are encouraged.
*
The three focus areas for each apprenticeship:*

   - Fundamentals of sustainable production
   - Community food systems
   - Agricultural and extension education.

*
Compensation:* They offer a small stipend ($100/week), housing with access
to a kitchen and the Internet. Apprentices may attend CEFS workshops free of
charge and may have the opportunity to participate in the formal internship
seminars.

*How to Apply:* *The deadline for applications is January 3, 2011*. Submit
an email letter of interest to Steve Moore at [log in to unmask], and
include the following information:

   - A cover letter with your area of interest in sustainable agriculture,
   and a short narrative on what you hope to gain from and what you can offer
   to CEFS and the SFU’s mission
   - A resume
   - A list of three references (including contact information)

*For more information *visit the CEFS site
http://www.cefs.ncsu.edu/getinvolved/apprenticeships.html, or contact

Dr. John M. O'Sullivan
Small Farm Unit Coordinator
336-334-7957
*[log in to unmask]*

Or

Steve Moore
On-Site Farm Manager
919-731-3440
*[log in to unmask]*


*
<[log in to unmask]>*


* Sustainable Ag Project Manager Position at the Wilds*


The Wilds is engaged in a Conservation Innovative Grant project, supported
by the Natural Resource Conservation Service. This is a three year
sustainable agriculture initiative with a key purpose of demonstrating
options for "limited resource," marginal farmers/ranchers and land owners.
The project will demonstrate land preparation, land
management and use options based on life cycle analysis for carbon and
energy. It is intended that these options will enable the farmers/ranchers
to minimize the environmental impact and cost while reviving their lands,
addressing climate change adaptation by sequestering CO2, supporting
biodiversity, and generating sustainable  income.

The Wilds is seeking a manager to help assist the oversight of the project
and participate in its daily activities.

*Typical tasks:*



   - Plans and coordinates daily project activities and logistics related to
   sustainable agriculture grant project.
   - Oversees and participates in field work activities and data collection
   (vegetation, soil, faunal biodiversity, biomass, etc).
   - Keeps specific and meticulous records of project inputs and outputs.
   - Oversees and participates in farming/gardening activities related to
   the Wilds' produce garden.
   - Actively participates and facilitates project related educational
   programs.
   - Assists in developing future sustainable agriculture programs for
   marginal lands including the incorporation of multi-species rotational
   grazing.
   - Assists with grant accounting and reporting.
   - Maintains and develops working relationships with farmers, educators,
   and other professionals.
   - Assists in the analysis and demonstration of the project.
   - Assists with the development and execution of an evaluation for the
   program.

*
Requirements and Desired Abilities:*

   - A minimum of a 4 year degree in Sustainable Agriculture, Agriculture,
   Biology, Natural Resource Management or related field.
   - A minimum of two years of farming experience.
   - A basic understanding of science and experimental design is encouraged.
   - Literacy regarding land management practices with regards to marginal
   lands like reclaimed mine lands.
   - Experience working with the public required.
   - Good organization and self management skills required.
   - Excellent relationship management skills required.
   - Ability to work independently or as part of a team required.
   - Advanced computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
   required.
   - Independent decision making/problem solving skills required.
   - Reliable and professional work ethic required.
   - Ability to successfully pass a criminal history background check
   annually required.
   - Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends required.

*How to Apply:* Apply online at
www.columbuszoo.org/join_the_team(year-round employment) or by sending
cover letter and resume to:



Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Human Resources

9990 Riverside Dr.

Box 400

Powell, OH 43065





*Grown In Detroit Produce Marketing and Sales Coordinator*

*Organization: *The Greening of Detroit
*Location:* 1418 Michigan Ave., Detroit 48216
*Date Posted: *December 1, 2010
*Salary: *$28,800 - $32,000 commensurate with experience plus benefits

*
*

*Area of Focus:* Food Systems, Urban Agriculture, Farmers’ Markets, Retail
and
Wholesale Produce Marketing and Sales, Education, The Environment.

*
*

*Organizational Description:* The Greening of Detroit’s mission is to “guide
and inspire the growth of a ‘greener’
Detroit through planting and educational programs, environmental leadership,
advocacy, and by building community capacity.” One of the ways The Greening
engages the community to achieve this mission is through urban gardening and
agriculture projects. Since 2003, The Greening of Detroit has been at the
forefront of an emerging movement to achieve a ‘greener’ city while
transforming the food system in Detroit. Our accomplishments include working
with our partners in The Garden Resource Program to provide farming
resources and educational opportunities to over 15,000 urban gardeners of
all ages each year in the cities of Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park.
We operate four unique urban farms to utilize The Greening of Detroit’s
urban agriculture programs as effective small-scale agricultural sites that
provide community led, placebased education, and showcase production based
small-farming or gardening models in Detroit.

*
*

*Position Summary:* The Greening of Detroit is seeking a full- time Produce
Marketing and Sales Coordinator to support our Urban Agriculture Department
and urban farmers participating in the Grown In Detroit cooperative who are
producing fruits and vegetables for sale at farmers’ markets and to local
restaurants. In 2010, Grown In Detroit sold regularly at 6 Detroit Farmers’
Markets as well as to local restaurants grossing over $50,000. This position
requires an individual with strong interest in community-driven food systems
and urban agriculture, the experience and willingness to work with diverse
groups, and the ability to collaborate with community organizations. The
Produce Marketing and Sales Coordinator reports to the Urban Farms Operation
Manager.

*
*

*Duties and Responsibilities:*

   - Oversee the marketing and sale of fruits and vegetables grown in urban
   farmsparticipating in the Grown in Detroit cooperative. This includes
   coordinating farmers’ market and restaurant sales, creating and updating
   program literature, monitoring and upholding harvest and post-harvest
   handling standards and practices, supervising sales, processing accounts,
   and recruiting, training, and supporting participating urban growers.
   - Work with Urban Agriculture staff to develop new processing and
   cooperative use facilities.
   -  Work with Urban Agriculture staff to develop and implement farm plans
   for Greening of Detroit operated sites that maximize production to
   supplement retail and wholesale sales.
   - Oversee harvest, post-harvest handling, and sale of fruits and
   vegetables grown at sites operated by The Greening of Detroit.
   - Management of other related projects including coordination of u-pick
   activities at
   - Greening of Detroit Market Gardens and local produce delivery to a CSA
   like project called The Fresh Food Share.
   - Project based supervision of staff, AmeriCorps members, and volunteers.


*Additional Qualifications:*

   - The ideal candidate will have 2+ years experience selling vegetables,
   fruit, and flowers directly to consumers at farmers’ markets or to local
   restaurants, including
   - Experience owning or operating a business including planning,
   accounting, and record keeping experience.
   - Experience supervising staff and/or volunteers and working with diverse
   communities.
   - Experience teaching youth and/or adults in a farm or garden setting.
   - Interest and familiarity with issues relating to local food, food
   access, and sustainable agriculture, and a genuine appreciation of the urban
   environment.
   - Strong organizational and written/verbal communication skills.
   - Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
   - Proficiency in all MS office applications required.
   - Bachelor’s degree in marketing, community development, natural
   resources, plant science, or comparable experience.

*How to Apply:*
Please send email of your resume and cover letter to
[log in to unmask] Use the job title as the subject line.
Only potential interviewees will be contacted. Visit our website at
www.detroitagriculture.org. The Greening of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity
Employer.

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 http://list.msu.edu/archives/mich-organic.html