*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. Happy Spring!!*
*Michigan Organic *
*Listserv*
*April, 13, 2011*
*Upcoming Events of Interest*
*Crops and Soil Sciences/Horticulture Seminar*
*When:* April 14, 2011, refreshments at 4:00pm, seminar at 4:10pm.
*Where:* A149 Plant & Soil Science Bldg, East Lansing, MI
*Why:* Dr. Rufus Isaacs, will present “Understanding and enhancing native
bees for integrated pollination of fruit crops”.
*How: *Event is Free of Charge. No registration necessary.
*10th Annual Earth Day at Westwind Milling
*
*When: *April 16, 2011, from 1:00-4:00pm
*Where: *Westwind Milling (8572 Silver Lake Rd., Linden, MI)
*Why:* Come celebrate Earth Day at Westwind Milling.
*Activities Include:*
- Start with a local & organic foods cookout lunch at NOON!
- 1 pm: Howell Nature Center's Lords of the Sky, showing us birds
including a hawk osprey, falcon, owl, and the Bald Eagle. Hear about their
role in nature, their skills, and see their beauty!
- Make Bat houses and Birdhouses
- Make a plastic bag purse
- Make recycled garden statues - creative & beautiful Mother's Day
gifts!! This one starts early, at 11 am
- Learn about local foods online shopping
- Tree seedlings to the first 50 people
- Eco-books and videos - keep informed
- Livingston Recycle and CROP Walk tables
- Cool door prizes
*How:* No registration necessary. For more info, call 810 735-9192 or
[log in to unmask]
*Veggie Gardening 101 Presented by Growing Hope*
*When: *April 18, 2011, from 6:00pm-7:30pm
*Where:* Spark East, (215 W. Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI)
*Why:* Come learn vegetable gardening basics from an experienced master
gardener! Melissa Kesterson is an experienced organic gardener,
past-director of local non-profit Project Grow, and a lead master gardener
helping support congregations growing for donation in Food Gatherer's Faith
and Food program this year!
You can expect to learn about:
- Site Location and Garden Size
- What to Plant; Plant Rotation
- Soil Preparation
- Garden Design
- ABC’s of Watering
- Strategies for Handling Pests
*How:* Drop-ins are welcome or pre-register by calling (734)786-8401 or
emailing *[log in to unmask]**. Cost:* $5 (or $3 for Growing Gardens
members).
*Source:* http://www.growinghope.net/.
*Michigan Food Processors Summit*
*When:* April 27, 2011, from 8:30am-6:00pm
*Where:* Eagle Eye Golf Club (15500 Chandler Rd, Bath, MI)
*Why:* Come join Michigan food processors and regulatory and economic
leaders to address challenges and discuss opportunities to support the
continued growth of the industry in Michigan. The sessions will include
industry-specific breakout sessions for processors in the following
categories:
- Grain processing/baking
- Meat
- Dairy
- Fruits and vegetables
- Please visit
www.MichiganAdvantage.org/FoodProcessing<http://www.michiganadvantage.org/FoodProcessing>to
view the
agenda.
*How:* Register on-line
http://www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin.aspx?EventID=946974.* Cost:* $40
(Includes lunch and conference material).
*Economic Growth through Local Agriculture, Discussion Forums*
*Identical discussion forums are available at two different locations.*
*
When/Where:*
- April 26, 2011, from 3:00pm-5:00pm
1401 W Herbison Rd, DeWitt Township Hall, DeWitt, MI
- April 28, 2011, from 7:00pm-9:00pm
Eaton County 551 Bldg, 551 Courthouse Dr, Charlotte, MI
*Why:* Attention! Agri-business owners, farmers and growers, farmer’s
market vendors, community and economic developers, food co-ops, food service
professionals, join Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties as well as the
Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and Michigan State University to
share your ideas and help shape an agriculture economic development plan for
our region.
The discussion forums are an opportunity to share your prospective on the
current trends, successes, and shortcomings of agriculture in our region.
*
How:* Register online for the April 26th discussion at
http://april26discussionforum.eventbrite.com. Register online for the April
28th discussion at http://april28discussionforum.eventbrite.com.
*Questions? Contact: *Chris Hnatiw (517) 393-0344 ext. 19, *
[log in to unmask]*. Registration is closed but a limited # of walk ins
will be accepted.
*Cooking Classes at Westwind Milling*
*Bread Baking*
*When:* May 7, 2011, from 1:00pm-4:00pm
*Where:* Westwind Milling (8572 Silver Lake Rd., Linden, MI)
Featuring water bagels and rye bread.
*Cost:* $20
*Cheese Making*
*When: *May 21, 2011, from 1:00pm-4:00pm
*Where:* Westwind Milling (8572 Silver Lake Rd., Linden, MI)
Featuring Mozzarrella.
*Cost:* $30.
*How:* Spaces are limited, and fill up quickly. To register contact Linda
and Lee, [log in to unmask] or 810 735-9192.
*Heart of Michigan Farmers Market Vendors Wanted*
*When:* Saturday, May 14, 2011, from 8:00am-12:00pm, RAIN OR SHINE.
*Where: *East side of the Capitol, along Capitol Avenue and Allegan Street,
Lansing, MI.
*Why: *This is a great opportunity to market your local products. The Heart
of Michigan Farmers Market, will be held in conjunction with the Heart of
Michigan Run/Walk. Both events finish at the Capitol with a Heart of
Michigan Farmers Market. This market is coordinated by the Michigan Farmers
Market Association (MIFMA) in partnership with the Champions for Charity.
*How:* The vendor application is now available online at our website
http://www.mifma.org/heart-of-michigan-farmers-market-application/ for the
May 14th Heart of Michigan Farmers Market. Please read the vendor
application form and the event details and information policy before
submitting your application. The deadline for accepting applications is
Friday, April 29th. Be sure to send in all materials before that date. We
will have room for roughly 50 farmers and vendors from across the state
selling their Michigan-grown and processed goods.
This market is coordinated by the Michigan Farmers Market Association and
the Champions for Charity. There will be a vendor fee for those wishing to
sell their goods at the market. MIFFS and MIFMA members receive a $20
discount on those vendor fees, making the entry fee $40 and $60 for
non-members. Vendors requiring electricity will be responsible for an
additional $15 fee.
For more information, contact Maggie Smith, market coordinator, at
517-432-3381 or *[log in to unmask]* or visit www.mifma.org.
*Vendors Wanted! Springfield Farmers’ Market*
*When:* Sundays from 10:00am-3:00pm. June 19th-October 16th.
*Where: *Springfield Farmers' Market (12000 Davisburg Rd., Davisburg, MI),
conveniently located in the Shiawassee Basin Preserve, next to the Township
Library, softball fields and just down the road from local churches.
*Why:* The Springfield Farmers' Market is currently seeking vendors of all
types: produce, honey, flowers, cheeses, meats, food products, baked
goods/breads, artisan items, soaps handmade crafts, etc. The Market slogan
is "Naturally Local", so all items must be made/grown in Michigan, and all
items must be naturally grown (if applicable).
*How:* Cost is $15 per day, or $180 for the season. Market Rules and
Application can be found at www.michiganorganic.msu.edu under the Event tab.
*Application deadline is May 1st.*
Any questions can be directed to Laura Haselhuhn, the Market Manager at
248-249-1592, or *[log in to unmask]*.
*
Funding Opportunities*
*USDA Offers Second Round of Conservation Funding for Organic Producers*
Support from the US 2010 Farm bill offers this support for Organic Farmers.
The support is intended to encourage and provide opportunities for
management that lead to increased levels of soil and water conservation and
preservation of quality. Note that this support is specifically for
certified organic farmers and the* deadline for application is May 20th*.
Note that beginning, limited resource, and socially disadvantaged
producers may be eligible for higher program payments. The program provides
up to $20,000 per year per person or legal entity, with a maximum total of
$80,000 over six years. To apply contact your local NRCS office. The contact
information for your area can be found at
http://www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/Field%20Offices.html
LANSING, April 11, 2011 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering
organic producers another opportunity to receive financial assistance for
implementing new conservation measures. The USDA will conduct a second round
of 2011 Organic Initiative funding for producers who submit applications by
May 20, 2011.
The USDA’s Organic Initiative reserves conservation financial assistance for
producers to plan and implement conservation practices that address natural
resource concerns in ways that are consistent with organic production. Some
conservation practices eligible for financial assistance include planting
cover crops, establishing integrated pest management plans and implementing
nutrient management systems consistent with organic certification standards.
Producers who want to participate in the second Organic Initiative sign-up
are urged to begin the application process as soon as possible to meet the
application selection deadline. Eligible producers include those certified
through USDA’s National Organic Program, those transitioning to certified
organic production, and those who meet organic standards but are exempt from
certification because their gross annual organic sales are less than $5,000.
Under Organic Initiative contracts, producers receive program payments to
help offset the cost of the organic conservation measures they implement.
Beginning, limited resource, and socially disadvantaged producers may be
eligible for higher program payments. The program provides up to $20,000 per
year per person or legal entity, with a maximum total of $80,000 over six
years.
Producers interested in applying for Organic Initiative funding must submit
applications through their local NRCS field office. For more information
about the USDA Organic Initiative including contact information for local
offices, visit the NRCS-Michigan Web site at www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov.
NRCS is celebrating 75 years helping people help the land. Since 1935, the
NRCS conservation delivery system has advanced a unique partnership with
state and local governments and private landowners delivering conservation
based on specific, local conservation needs, while accommodating state and
national interests.
*Source:*
http://www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov/news/11%20NewsReleases/Organic%20Sign-Up%20II.html
.
*Would you like to help your schools purchase fresh, local foods from area
farmers? If so, please read on….*
If you have an investment in your local school district you may want to
encourage school food service directors to apply for this grant, intended to
them plan for and implement local food purchasing from area farmers for
school meals. You can use the sample applications of grants that are at
www.michiganorganic.msu.edu on the home page. * Note that the deadline for
this application is May 16, 2011.*
*Announcing the Michigan Farm to School Grant Program!*
Food service directors must often work through numerous challenges to start
or expand farm to school programs. The goal of the MI Farm to School Grant
Program is to help overcome some of these challenges, and initiate and
expand farm to school programs across the state.
With funding from the WK Kellogg Foundation, the MI Farm to School Grant
Program will award a total of 15 Michigan K-12 schools/districts with funds
($2,000 maximum each) to plan for or implement farm to school programs. The
grant year is September 1, 2011 – June 1, 2012.
- The MI Farm to School Planning Grant will help schools plan for
integrating fresh, local foods into cafeterias AND ultimately develop a Farm
to School Action Plan to implement a farm to school program after the grant
year.
- The MI Farm to School Implementation Grant will help schools put
existing farm to school plans into action AND ultimately develop a Farm to
School Sustainability Plan to keep a farm to school program going and
growing in future years.
*Eligibility:
*
- The school food service program must have at least 50% free and
reduced-price meal enrollment at the time this application is completed. A
goal of this program is to help vulnerable children find more healthy and
local food choices in school meals programs.
- Only school food service/nutrition directors can apply for their school
district(s) or school(s). Food service directors from a school district may
choose to focus on a few school buildings or an entire school district’s
food service program, but the district must have 50% free and reduced price
meal enrollment. Private or charter schools may apply as an individual
school.
- Only one application for either the planning or implementation grant
(not both) is allowed per district or private/charter school per grant
year.
Please review the application materials and sample grant applications
attached for more information. You can also find these materials on our
website at http://www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu/index.php?id=48.
*
To be reviewed, complete applications must be received by 5 pm EST on
Monday, May 16th, 2011.* Email completed application as an attachment to
Jekeia Murphy at *[log in to unmask]*.
*
Surveys*
*
*
*Participate in Michigan Center for Sustainability & Detroit Eastern Market
Grower Survey*
The Michigan Center for Sustainability and Detroit Eastern Market are
working together to increase the southeastern Michigan market for locally
grown fruits and vegetables, and are writing to ask for your help by
participating in a grower survey? The survey is intended for growers who
sell wholesale or are interested in doing so in the future, and will take 10
to 15 minutes of your time. The results will help us figure out next steps
for proposed new infrastructure that will make it more convenient for
growers to sell into southeastern Michigan institutions and Detroit's
underserved corner store market. The new infrastructure is intended to
complement and support existing local food activities.
Your responses are confidential and we'll send a copy of the summary data if
you wish when the information is complete. Also, if you would like to
possibly be a grower for these markets please leave a way for us to reach
you (at the end of the survey).
To make it more rewarding for at least one of you to participate, we will
give away one Cabela's gift card with a $60 value - that can be used
in-store or online - via a random drawing. Great odds of winning! Please
feel free to forward this to other growers who you feel might be interested.
To fill out the survey visit
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e3nlici2gm3kj340/a009gm97ckgh/questions
.
*Community Needs Assessment for Mid-Michigan*
If any vendors in the Mid-Michigan area are looking for commercial kitchen
space on a part-time basis, Incu-Bake is assessing community needs for a new
social entrepreneurship endeavor in the South Lansing/Holt area. Incu-BaKe,
opening very soon, is a shared use, commercial kitchen, offering a wide
range of unique incubator services. Incu-Bake's main goal is to connect
community, farms, and businesses. It will be especially helpful for
individuals who have been selling under the Cottage Foods Law and are
thinking about expanding.
Here is an online survey to assess needs and to get put on the list:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/incubake. A discount will be offered to
individuals utilizing 50% or more local produce in their value added
products.
*Source: *Incu-Bake, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Incu-BaKe/140591002676300
*
Fruit Production News*
*
*
*J1 Visas Offer Alternative Labor Source **by Derrek Sigler, The Fruit
Growers News.com**
*
Finding quality labor is an issue most growers must deal with. Many fruit
and vegetable growers are aware of the H-2A visa program that allows U.S.
employers to bring foreign nationals to the country to fill temporary
agricultural jobs for which domestic workers are not available. These same
growers are also aware of the obstacles associated with the H-2A system.
There is an alternative for some workers, however, with the J1 Visa system.
Few growers are taking advantage of the Exchange Visitor J1 Visa program,
which enables experienced interns and trainees to be placed on U.S. farms
and agricultural operations. There are some striking differences between J1
and H-2A, however, and the J1 Visa is not an option that will work for
everyone.
"The J1 Visa program is a training program," said Bob Jones Jr. of The
Chef's Garden Farm in Ohio. "It shouldn't be looked at as a source of labor,
but more of as an educational program where you'll get an exchange of
ideas."
A key difference of the J1 program is the education, or experience,
requirement. The intent is that the workers would arrive with a
higher-than-average level of experience, gain additional training, share
their knowledge with the host farm and return to their home country to
further their agricultural career and improve their community. Two types of
J1 visas are allowed for agricultural workers: trainees and interns.
A trainee must be a foreign national who has a degree or professional
certificate from a foreign, post-secondary academic institution, and at
least one year of prior work experience in his or her occupational field.
Five years of work experience outside the United States in the occupational
field in which he or she is seeking training also qualifies.
An intern, on the other hand, must be a foreign national who is studying at
a foreign post-secondary academic institution outside the United States, or
has graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to his
or her program start date. The intern must have a minimum of one year of
prior work experience in his or her occupational field.
Growers who participate in the program see benefits aside from having
experienced help.
"They come with some technical knowledge, but are open for us to teach our
methods," said Glenn Cook of Cider Hill Farms in Massachusetts. "They are
seasonal, which is often very hard to find from our local population, and
they will work more than a local person because they have fewer distractions
and commitments and realize they are here to work, to make money, to learn
English and to experience American culture."
Trainees and interns are allowed to work in the United States for up to 12
months.
Jones has worked with the J1 program for 15 years, and brings in an average
of 10 student trainees each year. Cook has been involved for more than 25
years, and currently hosts six student trainees. Each of them highly
recommends the system.
"I have strongly recommended it to many farmers over the years," Cook said.
"We have been involved ourselves for about 25 years, and first learned of it
through another farmer. Many of these interns return home to establish very
impressive farm operations.
We have no plans to change this important part of our farm culture. We have
thoroughly enjoyed this part of our farm life, and we have friends around
the world now."
The Communicating for Agriculture Scholarship and Education Foundation (CAF)
acts as an exchange sponsor for the J1 program. CAF sets up internships and
training opportunities through its administering organization CA Education
Programs (CAEP). CAEP has created training opportunities for more than
20,000 young adults
CAEP has placed J1 interns and trainees in fruit and vegetable businesses
around the country, from small family farms to larger operations.
"We match qualified interns and trainees based on the needs of the host farm
or operation," said Craig Schmuck, CAEP coordinator. "The program provides
the vocational component to agricultural education for the participant, and
hosts often learn as much from them."
As the sponsoring organization, CAEP facilitates the entry of the trainees
into the United States as exchange visitors and ensures completion of the
necessary paperwork and program objectives set by the U.S. State Department.
By handling the visa logistics, travel arrangements, pre-arrival training
and technical support, CAEP makes it easier for host farms looking for J1
placements in agriculture.
"I'm very happy to be involved with the program," Jones said. "The best
advice I can give is to be flexible. Sometimes you have to make adjustments
in how a farm is run to make the trainee more involved, and sometime you
have to make adjustments for the ethnic diversity as well. The trainees are
coming to learn about American agriculture and the English language. It's
not a quick fix for cheap labor, but a commitment to education. It is truly
a great program."
To find out more about hosting an intern or trainee, call CAEP at
866-560-1657, or visit, http://www.caep.org/.
*Source: *The Fruit Growers News.com,
https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&view=bsp&ver=ohhl4rw8mbn4.
*Floor management in organic orchards a challenge* *by Matt Milkovich, Fruit
Growers News**
*
There’s a reason the vast majority of organic tree fruit acres are in the
western half of the United States. Growing in the eastern half is a
challenge, to say the least.
Ian Merwin, a Cornell University researcher, laid out some of the challenges
during the Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable & Farm Market EXPO in Grand Rapids,
Mich., last December. For one thing, insect, disease and weed pressure are
much greater in the East, and production costs are higher.
But Merwin’s main focus was on the challenges of orchard floor management in
an organic system. Here are some tidbits from his presentation:
Orchard floor management begins with soil health, but what makes a soil
“healthy” isn’t easy to define. The long-term health and productivity of the
orchard is an indicator, as is the soil’s ability to resist erosion and
retain water. Biological activity is important, too, Merwin said.
Soil health might not be an easy concept to define, but there’s an easy way
to find out how healthy the soil is in an old orchard: Plant a young tree.
If it doesn’t grow, you have a re-plant problem – and if you have a re-plant
problem, you have a soil problem, he said.
Merwin talked about weeds and cover crops.
Cover crops are one of the mainstays of organic weed control, but the better
a cover crop suppresses weeds, the more it competes with fruit trees for
nutrients. The root systems of fruit trees, especially young trees on
dwarfing rootstocks, are sparse and don’t compete well with weeds and cover
crops, he said.
Dormant-season cover crops can provide organic matter or nitrogen when mowed
or tilled, but Northeast winters are so long and cold that it’s hard to gain
enough biomass and nutrients from them.
A mainstay of organic weed control is mechanical cultivation, but the more
orchard soils are cultivated, the more they need cover crops, composts and
mulches to help them maintain organic matter and fertility. As for organic
herbicides, they’re expensive and not very effective, he said.
Merwin also discussed the concept of Integrated Fruit Production, which
integrates conventional and organic production systems. IFP, a science-based
system, utilizes IPM techniques and emphasizes soil fertility and quality,
plant health and nutrient budgeting. It’s a standard production system in
Europe and New Zealand, with a certification scheme similar to the organic
industry. Organophosphate and carbamate pesticides are mostly prohibited
under IFP, except pre-bloom and for crop thinning.
In orchard tests in New York state, soil health was generally better using
IFP techniques than organic techniques, he said.
*
Source: *The Fruit Growers News, http://fruitgrowersnews.com.
*
Farmers Market News
*
*MIFMA’s Farmers Market Manager Certificate Program Certifies 36 Market
Managers*
EAST LANSING, MICH –The Michigan Farmers Markets Association (MIFMA)
recently certified 36 farmers market managers statewide. The certification
came after managers completed MIFMA’s first Market Manager Certificate
Program, training them in topics essential to market management.
As farmers markets grow and expand throughout the state, totaling more than
220 markets in Michigan in 2010, so do the needs of the individuals who run
these markets and make them a thriving marketplace for local food and farm
products.
“MIFMA was thrilled to work with and certify so many qualified farmers
market managers committed to growing and improving their markets,” said Dru
Montri, MIFMA Director.
Certificates were awarded to 36 farmers market managers from across the
state who completed the full six-day program, offering acknowledgement to
market organizers and vendors that the market manager is a trained
professional.
Each market manager had the opportunity to network with other managers
around the state over eight weeks and learn topics like Business Planning
and Market Growth Management; Human Relations and Conflict Management;
Market Governance, Rules and Enforcement; Fundraising; and Marketing and
Outreach. A final manager-to-manager education and networking opportunity
completed the program focusing on sharing experiences and lessons learned.
Online resources from the program sessions will become available 24/7 as
condensed online learning modules at MIFMA’s new CyberInstitute, which will
launch in June 2011. In addition, MIFMA is already planning for next year’s
Certificate Program, expected to run from January to March 2012.
To learn more, visit www.mifma.org or contact Maggie Smith at
[log in to unmask] or (517) 432-3381.
*Source:* http://www.mifma.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/1April2011.pdf.
*
Beginning Farmer News
*
*Northeast Beginning Farmer Project, Website for Beginning Farmers*
The Northeast Beginning Farmer Project website extends support to aspiring,
new and diversifying farmers across the Northeast. The site provides video
footage of experienced farmers and their successful production techniques in
action. You can also browse the event calendar, for upcoming classes,
events, and trainings.
The Northeast Beginning Farmer project is part of the Cornell Small Farms
Program and is funded by a Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Grant from the
National Institute of Food and Agriculture. To learn more about the
Northeast Beginning Farmer Project, visit nebeginningfarmers.org.
*
Insect and Disease Control News
*
*Early Insect Control with Horticultural Oils* *by Mirjana
Bulatovic-Danilovich, Michigan State University Extension*
Timely application of oil now will lead to fewer applications of miticides
and insecticides later in the season.
The horticultural oils offer a valuable option in insect control yet they
are probably the least explored alternative. Ever since the mid 80’s when I
worked extensively with oils, I have been a proponent of their use. I guess
they have proven to be an example for the axiom that it is better to prevent
the problem than to deal with it once it is established.
The horticultural oils or “dormant” oils as they are often referred to, can
and should be used as very effective control materials for insects that
overwinter on the bark, under bark scales, in crevasses, etc. Oil programs
are aimed primarily at scale species, adelgids, aphids, mealybugs, mites,
plant bugs (eggs and nymphs), psyllids, eggs of certain moths (fall
cankerworm, webworm…), leafhoppers, leafrollers (eggs and young larvae),
Gypsy moths (eggs and young larvae) and fall web worms (eggs and young
larvae). Once on the target pest, oil damages the membranes and the waxy
layer of the exoskeleton resulting in suffocation. Timely application of oil
will lead to fewer applications of miticides and insecticides later in the
season. Oils fit well in IPM and resistance management programs. Toxicity is
not a major issue since oil evaporates relatively quickly leaving very
little residue. At the time of oil application there is usually not much
else active in the orchard; predators are not in the picture yet!
*What are horticultural oils?*
The horticultural oils are mainly refined petroleum products. More recently
the list has expended to include extracts from the seed of the neem tree
(Azadirachta indica) and some vegetable oils such as cottonseed and soybean
oils.
*Oil effectiveness*
In the past, oils had different degrees of refinement. The problems
associated with the oil-sprays are most often due to the purity of the oil
and rates applied. There are several criteria that need to be considered
when determining the effectiveness of oil.
The unsulfonated residue or degree of refinement to remove sulfur impurities
of 92% and above is preferred. The higher the percentage the more refine the
oil. These highly refined oils are known as “Superior Oils.” There are
several trade names for them like, Sun Ultra-Fine Oil, Sunspray, Superior 70
Oil, Supreme Oil, Trilogy (neem product), etc.
Gravity or density reading is referring to the weight of the oil. Paraffinic
oil is less dense than aromatic hydrocarbon type.
Viscosity is the most important parameter when selecting the oil for
spraying fruit trees. Viscosity is expressed in seconds and represents the
time needed for the drop of oil to pass through a standard opening. This in
turn relates to the length of time that the oil is exposed to effectively
cover the plant before breaking down. The values for dormant oils are from
90 to 150 seconds. For the summer or verdant oils the values are from 65 to
90. To be on the safe side, oils 65 to 70 seconds should be used for summer
sprays.
Over time, the term “dormant oil” spray has become synonymous with
horticultural oil spray. Initially, the term “dormant oil” referred to a
heavier and not as well refined product that was applied during dormant
season before bud break or bud swell. Improvements in refining have produced
a superior product that is safer to the plants enabling extension of the
use-season.
*
How do oils work?*
Superior oils work as contact insecticides and miticides. They can be used
by themselves or in combination with other insecticides providing
synergistic effect. It is essential to provide excellent coverage so that
the targeted pest gets in contact with the oil to have satisfactory control
– a minimum of 100 gallons of water per acre is recommended. Oils are mixed
with emulsifying agents that allow them to make a milky solution when added
to the water. The mixture has a good tank-life, usually up to several days.
However, it is best to use fresh mixture and fill the tanks with the amount
needed for each day.
Before spraying, oils in the drums should be checked for proper emulsion
formulation. This could be easily tested by mixing 2% volume/volume solution
of oil in 1 gallon of water, shaking well and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
If the solution turns milky, the oil is good and can be used. If the oil
separates and stays on the water surface, the emulsifier is gone and the
mixture is not safe. The oil should not be used.
Pest control falls into two basic categories: 1) interference with egg
development, and 2) reducing the insect or mite population after hatching.
In the first instance, the oil may prevent normal oxygen exchange through
the egg covering, hardening of the outer membrane and preventing hatching,
possibly dissolving the outer covering, by penetrating into the egg itself,
oil may cause the coagulation of the protoplasm. When the oil gets in
contact with the larval or adult stage of the insect or mite, it may
interfere with the insect’s respiratory activity by blocking the tracheal
openings on their bodies or, possibly, create imbalance in hormonal
activity.
*Best time to spray oil?
*
Oil sprays are best known for their use in “dormancy,” though they could be
used throughout the “green” season. With dormant sprays there is a dilemma
whether it is better to spray in fall or in spring. In either case there are
a couple of things to consider: frost potential and the problem of
determining dormancy.
How can we be sure that the trees are truly dormant? Leaf drop does not
necessarily mean that the trees are dormant. If mild conditions prevail in
the fall, the cells in the wood and cambial layer may still be active.
Spraying oil will block and seal the pores and hinder the normal gas
exchange killing off the tissue. In our northern climate it is important to
have a minimum of 48 cumulative hours of below-freezing temperatures before
we can safely apply oil at the dormant rates. Normally, it will take a few
days with the temperatures in low twenties or in the teens to satisfy this
requirement and stop any activity on the cellular level in the trees.
In spring, just a week of higher than normal temperatures will trigger the
“coming-out” of dormancy. Oil applications at this time followed by mild
weather are not a problem. However, if the period of above-normal
temperatures is followed by a sudden drop in temperatures after the trees
have been sprayed, significant tissue damage will occur.
Using oils in the “green” stage during summer is recommended for scale,
aphid, and mite control. Superior oils are relatively safe and most fruit
trees will tolerate the application at summer rates. Summer oil rates do,
however, depend on the overall health of the trees, temperatures, air
humidity and “accompanying” materials in the spray tank.
Severely stressed plants should not be sprayed with the oil. Generally, if
there is some stress involved, the rate should be cut down to 1¼%. Normally,
it is safe to spray 70 seconds oil at 1½% rate. If there is temperature
above 75-80°F the rate should be dropped to 1¼ to 1%. It is not advisable to
spray oil when the temperature is much above 80°F. High humidity (above 90%)
may result in increased injury potential while low humidity allows for
faster oil evaporation and lower injury potential. If there is an
insecticide in the spray mix, drop the oil concentration to 1%.
When working with oils, it is important to pay attention to the pressure and
agitation. Spray should be done at lower pressure (never to exceed 300PSI).
Otherwise, the oils can be “driven” into the tissue, which can result in
significant phytotoxicity “burn” injury and potential dieback. Damage may
and will also occur if the sprayer agitation is not working properly. Under
this scenario, the oil will tend to separate and result in non-uniform
concentrations on the plant.
Hot mixes
Oil is not compatible with Captan, Sulfur or any other sulfur-containing
compound. It is necessary to provide a safe interval (two weeks) between the
oil application and use of any of the cited compounds. Otherwise,
phytotoxicity will occur.
*
Source:* MSU Extension News for Agriculture,
http://news.msue.msu.edu/news/article/early_insect_control_with_horticultural_oils
.
*Note: Lime sulfur is part of typical fruit organic management so this is
appropriate.
If you are a certified organic farm, always check with your certifier before
implementing any new organic practices. Better safe than losing your
certification.*
*
*
*Lime sulfur sprays can improve spring disease control* *by Mark Longstroth,
Michigan State University Extension**
*
Early sprays of lime sulfur reduce disease inoculum in spring
Many diseases of woody perennial plants overwinter as lesions on the plant
or areas that were killed the previous year. Spores from last year’s
infection reinfest new growth in the spring. Caustic sprays in the early
spring can burn the lesions, killing or damaging the fungal spores before
they are released in the spring.
Lime sulfur is an effective dormant spray when applied early in the season
as growth begins. When applied as a true dormant spray before growth begins,
lime sulfur can be used with oil to increase the penetration of the caustic
sulfur into the surface of the infected tissues. Once green tissue appears,
oil should not be mixed with oil. Oil will carry sulfur into green plant
tissue causing injury. It is generally recommended to not use oil within a
week of a sulfur spray when green tissue is exposed. Lime sulfur rates
should be reduced when green tissue is exposed. Recommended rates vary for
different products with dormant rates in the 10 to 12 pounds per 100 gals of
water to 5 or 6 pounds when green tissue is exposed.
Lime sulfur (calcium polysulfide) is a caustic material and after
application it breaks down, releasing sulfur. It is very effective against
diseases that overwinter on the host. Lime sulfur is also effective against
many insect pests that overwinter on the plant.
Lime sulfur is registered for use on most fruits, but is most commonly used
on small fruit. Lime sulfur is used on brambles to control anthracnose, spur
blight and cane blight. In blueberries, the diseases controlled include
phomopsis and anthracnose twig blights. In grapes, lime sulfur is effective
against black rot, powdery mildew and phomopsis. Lime sulfur is also used in
apples, pears, peaches and cherries.
Some formulations of lime sulfur are OMRI certified as organic, but check
with your certifier for confirmation.
Sulforix is a commercial formulation of lime sulfur. It can also be used as
a dormant spray to burn overwintering fungal lesions. Sulforix is also
registered for application during the growing season in some crops,
especially in the prebloom period.
*Source:* MSU Extension News for Agriculture,
http://news.msue.msu.edu/news/article/lime_sulfur_sprays_can_improve_spring_disease_control
.
*Soil Building News
*
*Fertilizing Orchards with Livestock Manure* *by Allen Krizek, Michigan
State University Extension*
Follow these precautions to preserve food safety and reduce risk of manure
loss to surface and groundwater.
Livestock manure applied in bearing orchards that is not properly composted
may contain harmful pathogens that pose a risk of food-borne illness. Fruit
can become contaminated with manure in many ways: from containers placed on
manured ground, by picker’s hands from ladder rungs, by windblown dust from
manure application or storage, from dropped fruit and other means.
Growers are advised to check with their buyers to determine if livestock
manure can be used in bearing orchards and still meet the buyer’s
specifications. Some buyers require certified food safety farm audits that
do not allow manure applications. Buyers that accept the USDA Good
Agricultural Practices (GAP) farm audit, specify raw or un-composted manure
should be incorporated into the soil and not applied within 120 days of
harvest.
When livestock manure application is allowed by the buyer and the grower
wishes to use manure, fall application immediately after harvest and before
the ground freezes is suggested. Orchard applications should be made when
soils are still warm, not saturated with water and with an actively growing
orchard cover crop.
Orchards that are located on sandy soils are discouraged from receiving fall
manure application due to the risk of nitrate leaching to the groundwater.
Orchards located on sloped sites (greater than 6% slope) must be managed to
prevent the runoff of manure to ditches and other bodies of water. Vegetated
buffers and a minimum 150 feet setback from surface waters are most
effective.
Fruit growers who decide to use livestock manure on bearing orchards should
follow additional management practices (listed below) to prevent the loss of
manure to both surface and groundwater.
It may be wise to restrict manure applications to non-bearing orchards or
new areas to be planted to an orchard. Take special precautions to prevent
manure loss to nearby bearing orchards.
*
Summary tips:*
Determine if fruit buyer or market will allow manure applications.
Analyze manures to determine accurate nutrient levels and application rates.
Do not exceed nutrient application rates recommended by MSU.
Avoid manure applications where soil P levels are high (greater than 75 ppm
P Bray P1 test).
Prevent manure losses to surface and ground water.
*
Bearing fruit orchards
*
Nutrients used in fruit tree and crop production can come from manufactured
fertilizers and/or naturally occurring sources such as livestock manures and
legume crops. All nutrients, whether synthetic or naturally occurring, can
be lost from the orchard system by natural processes such as runoff to
surface water, or leaching to groundwater. Managers must minimize nutrient
losses to maximize economic production and to protect water resources from
contamination.
Livestock manures vary considerably in their nutrient content, depending on
their source and handling. The nutrient content of manure needs to be known
to calculate appropriate application rates. Nutrient concentrations commonly
found in manures are provided in Extension Bulletin E- 852, Fertilizing
Fruit Crops ($2.00 - available from the MSU Extension Bookstore), but
specific manures should be analyzed to determine accurate nutrient levels
and application rates.
Request manure nutrient content from your supplier, or have the manure
analyzed by a reliable laboratory prior to application. A listing of manure
testing laboratory is available at:
http://web2.canr.msu.edu/manure/labsites.cfm
*Caution:* Fresh manure or manures that are not composted are high in
nutrients and can injure tree roots if applied at excessive rates.
*Nitrogen (N)*
Although optimum N rates for bearing orchards vary considerably from site to
site, use rates of 50 pounds N per acres for in the tree row applications
and 100 pounds N (broadcast) of N as an initial guide. Be conservative with
N rates until you are familiar with the planting. It is much easier to apply
additional N than to manage excessive vigor caused by too high rates.
Excessive vigor is particularly damaging in new, high-density apple
plantings.
Under Michigan conditions, spring and fall applications have been equally
effective. Spring applications are suggested on sandy soils because fall
applications may result in nitrogen leaching and potential groundwater
contamination.
Spring application of manure should be made more than 120 days before
harvest, and when soils are warm, not saturated with water and preferably
with an actively growing orchard cover crop.
Manure contains ammonium N and organic N. Generally, all of the ammonium N
and 25 to 50 percent of the organic N is available to plants during the year
of application. Manure analysis reports usually include total N, available
N, P205 and K2O.
Manure must be applied so that rates of available N do not exceed those
recommended by Michigan State University, to be in conformance with Michigan
Right-to-Farm guidelines. In orchards with high testing phosphorus levels
(where soils contain greater than 75 ppm P Bray P1 test), manure rates
should not supply more P than is typically removed by the crop (about 50 lbs
P205 per acre for a bearing orchard).
Manure should not be applied in orchards where soil P levels are very high
(greater than 150 ppm P Bray P1 test), to be in conformance with Right to
Farm guidelines.
Table 1. Manure application rates to provide a total of 50 pounds of N per
acre.
(http://news.msue.msu.edu/news/article/fertilizing_orchards_with_livestock_manure
)
Three factors that have the greatest effect on N requirements are soil type,
orchard floor management and pruning. Orchards on fertile loam soils may
require N at only half the recommended rates, whereas those on very sandy
soils may require 50 percent more N. Sites previously used for alfalfa may
contain high soil N levels and require much less fertilizer. Heavily sodded
orchards may require 20 to 50 percent more N than clean cultivated
plantings. Similarly, orchards heavily infested with weeds may require
higher rates.
Heavy pruning stimulates vegetative growth and can reduce or replace N
requirements. Heavily pruned trees should be fertilized lightly if at all.
*
Phosphorus (P)*
Do not apply phosphorus (P) containing materials (manure or commercial
fertilizer) unless soil or tissue tests indicate a need exists. Phosphorus
is best applied at the time of orchard establishment by incorporating P into
the orchard soil. Always prevent soil erosion to bodies of water, as water
and wind erosion are the primary transport mechanism for P. Phosphorus
enriched waters result in excessive algal growth, decreased water quality
and harm to aquatic life.
If soil or tissue test indicate a need for P, apply 200 to 400 lb of
P2O5/acre. Because P moves very slowly in soil, these rates will sustain
most fruit crops for many years.
If the Bray P1 soil test level for P reaches 75 ppm, manure applications
should be managed at an horticultural rate where manure P added does not
exceed the P removed by the harvested
crop (50 lbs of P2O5/A for a bearing orchard). If the Bray P1 soil test
reaches 150 ppm or higher, manure applications should be discontinued until
nutrient harvest by the orchard reduces P test levels to less than 150 ppm.
To protect surface water quality against discharges of P, adequate soil and
water conservation practices should be used to control runoff, erosion and
leaching to drain tiles from fields where manure is applied.
*Potassium (K)*
Potassium (K) does not pose a threat to surface or groundwater resources.
Apply K when soil or tissue analyses indicate a deficiency exists.
Applications of 150 to 300 lb K2O/acre will correct most deficiencies. Stone
fruit plantings on light, sandy soils may require these rates as a
maintenance program every 3 to 5 years.
Michigan Right-to-Farm Guidelines for manure applications in the orchard
When followed by producers, the Michigan Right to Farm generally accepted
agricultural and management practices (GAAMPs) help protect the waters of
the state from the release of pollutants in quantities or concentrations
that violate established water quality standards. Conformance with GAAMPs
provides farmers with protection from nuisance lawsuits.
In addition to the management practices recommended previously in this
article, other GAAMPs for manure application in the orchard include:
Manures should be uniformly applied to soils.
The amount of manure applied should be known, so manure nutrients can be
effectively managed.
Manures should not be applied within 150 feet of surface water.
If manure is temporarily stacked in the field/orchard:
Keep stockpiles at least 150 feet away from surface waters
Keep stockpiles at least 150 feet away from non-farm homes
Spread manure as soon as orchard and weather conditions allow
Application of manure to frozen or snow-covered soils should be avoided.
Keep records of manure analysis, soil tests and rates of application.
For more information on the Right to Farm GAAMPS, go to:
http://michigan.gov/mda
*
Source: *MSU Extension News for Agriculture,
http://news.msue.msu.edu/news/article/fertilizing_orchards_with_livestock_manure
.
*Vegetable Production News*
*
*
*NRCS Program Helps Vegetable Grower to More Efficiently Water His Crops* *by
Hembree Brandon, Delta Farm Press*
Seventy-one year old vegetable grower Frank Wilbourn no longer has to snake
soaker hoses over his fields to water his crops, thanks to a well and
underground distribution lines he was able to obtain through a USDA/NRCS
program.
He also has a new plastic-covered high tunnel facility, or “hoop house,”
that allows him to start plants earlier in the spring and continue them
later in the spring.
The irrigation system “has been a blessing in helping to water the things I
grow, especially last summer when it was so dry and hot,” he says.
Wilbourn, whose pickup bears a bumper sticker, “No Farmers, No Food,” was
able to qualify for cost-share assistance through the USDA’s Natural
Resources Conservation Service Small Farmer program, says Larry Pride, soil
conservation technician, at the agency’s Marks, Miss., field office.
“One of the objectives is to provide assistance to non-traditional farmers
to help promote locally-grown alternative crops, such as fruits and
vegetables, and one of the ways to do that is to help them with small
irrigation systems that will improve efficiency and enhance productivity.”
The program has been expanded to include historically underserved clients
that the mainstream USDA programs typically don’t reach, says Paul Rodrigue,
NRCS water management engineer at the Grenada, Miss., field office.
“These include limited resource farmers who meet certain financial
conditions, socially disadvantaged farmers, such as African Americans, and
beginning farmers (those who’ve been farming less than 10 years).
“We provide the design/engineering for the projects and assistance with the
application process. The farmer works with a contractor for installation,
and after the work is complete, we inspect it to be sure it meets the
contract specifications and then approve payment.”
The amount of financial assistance varies according to the project and the
individual circumstances, he notes.
In addition to small irrigation systems, assistance is available for
erection of high tunnel facilities that can extend the growing season for
vegetables and other crops and further incentivize locally-grown food.
“These aren’t greenhouses,” Rodrigue notes. “They have no heating or cooling
— but are simply plastic-covered structures that enable a grower to get
plants in the ground 30 days early in the spring and to maintain production
30 days later in the fall.
Funds through these programs are already committed for Mississippi for 2011,
he notes, and applications for assistance would be for 2012.
Frank Wilbourn had already been producing fruits and vegetables for years,
but needed a way to more efficiently distribute water to his fields.
Under the NRCS program, he was approved for a well/pumping system and
underground lines with hydrants to distribute water in the field. He already
had one hoop house on the property, but last year a second one was added
through the USDA program.
Wilbourn, who was born here in Quitman County, Miss., says his love for
growing things started when he was six years old, helping his father with
vegetable production.
“I just loved seeing things grow — putting seeds in the ground and tending
them to produce food. In those days, everyone had a garden and grew a lot of
their own food. We didn’t go to the grocery store for everything.”
In the 1960s, he says, “Things were really tough in this area; there just
weren’t any jobs. I went to Milwaukee, Wisc., and worked in the steel mills.
It was hard, exhausting work, but even there, I had gardens to help feed my
family — we had six children.”
In 1990, he returned to Mississippi, bought his parents’ place where he had
grown up, and began growing vegetables again.”
“Everybody knows Mr. Frank,” says Larry Pride, “and they know the quality of
his vegetables. He doesn’t have any problem selling everything he produces.”
“I grow vegetables of all kinds,” Wilbourn says. “Red potatoes, white
potatoes, spinach, kale, string beans, butter beans, eggplant, onions,
tomatoes, sweet peas, okra, turnips/greens, squash, watermelons, muskmelons,
and whatever else I decide on in any given year. And a lot of herbs —
rosemary, thyme, basil, parsley, and others.”
He sells to local area residents and also at farmer markets at nearby
Clarksdale and Batesville.
“But I give away a lot of stuff, too,” Wilbourn says. “Times are tough and
there are a lot of needy folks. Where I can help, I do. There are folks who
come out here and help me do things in exchange for vegetables, and I
welcome them.
“This is a talent the Lord has blessed me with and it helped me to better
take care of my family and to lend a hand to others who were less fortunate.
“Folks today have become so citified they’ve forgotten how to grow things,”
Wilbourn says. “If everybody could just grow 5 percent to 10 percent of
their own food, it would really make a difference. Too many people have
forgotten that the earth is there to help us survive.
“I’m 71 years old, and except for surgery to remove some tumors, which thank
the Lord weren’t cancer, I’m still out here every day, planting things and
watching them grow.
“I love what I do — when I’m out here working, the problems of the world
just fade away. I pray while I work and thank God for all the blessings He
has given me and that He is still allowing me, as best I can, to help
others.”
*Source:*
http://deltafarmpress.com/management/nrcs-program-helps-vegetable-grower-more-efficiently-water-his-crops?cid=nl_dfpd
.
*Sweet Potatoes Move North* *by Ron Goldy, Michigan State University
Extension*
Sweet potato is a common crop in southern states, but they can be grown
successfully in northern states like Michigan.
Sweet potatoes are a tropical vine, so when talking about United States
production, thoughts turn to states like Louisiana, Mississippi and North
Carolina. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t be grown in Michigan. During
the 1960s and 1970s, there were over 1,000 acres in Berrien County.
Sweet potatoes are commonly called yams, however, they are neither potatoes
nor yams but morning glory relatives. Standard potatoes are related to
tomatoes and peppers and the edible portion is an underground stem called a
tuber. The “eyes” are buds. Although the edible portion of the yam is a root
like sweet potatoes, yams are more closely related to grass or lilies. The
name confusion originated from the resemblance sweet potato roots have to
yam roots.
The most common sweet potato has a copper colored interior and exterior and
a moist flesh. Sweet potatoes come in a range of interior and exterior
colors from white to purple. The purple pigment is heat stable so the result
after cooking is an interesting purple product. Sweet potatoes also come in
dry flesh-types similar to a standard russet baking potato. Desire for flesh
type and color varies with ethnicity, so direct marketers need to be aware
of ethnic populations in their marketing area and find out their sweet
potato preference.
Sweet potatoes are best planted in slightly acidic (pH 6.0) sandy soils
which allows for better root growth. They are planted from “slips” obtained
from southern nurseries. Slips are vine segments containing two or more
leaves and many are already sprouting roots. Soil has to be 65oF, which
usually means a late May or early June planting date. If slips cannot be
planted immediately, provide them with enough moisture and store them at
room temperature – do not place them in a cooler. Cool temperatures after
planting can result in spherical roots. Plant slips 12” apart in the row and
32” to 48” between rows. More northern areas should try planting through
black plastic to help warm the soil and encourage quicker plant growth,
resulting in higher yield as well as weed control.
Being outside typical production areas gives Michigan the advantage of not
having many sweet potato diseases and only a few insects. Some diseases and
nematodes can be transmitted with slips, so be sure to get them from a
reputable nursery. Wireworms can be a problem in some locations, especially
if a wireworm susceptible crop was planted in the same location the year
before. The biggest problem is weeds, but if they can be controlled early
through cultivation or herbicides, the sweet potato plant will grow
vigorously and quickly cover the ground to shade out all but the most
aggressive weeds. Deer and mice also can be problems since they eat the
roots.
In Michigan’s climate, sweet potatoes only need about 80 pounds per acre
nitrogen and 150 pounds per acre potash. Nitrogen should be applied in split
applications with 30 pounds as a pre-plant and the rest applied just prior
to the vines running. If planted through black plastic with drip irrigation,
fertilizer can be injected through the drip system starting two weeks after
planting and continuing through early September.
Harvest is weather dependent but will usually be late September. Vines
should not be allowed to receive killing freezing temperatures as that may
impart an off flavor to the roots. Prior to harvest, vines should be mowed
off and roots dug and graded. Number one roots are between 3” and 9” long
with a diameter between 1.75” and 3.5”. Larger and smaller roots are still
edible and can be sold as small, large or jumbos.
Several varieties have been tested under Michigan conditions with Carolina
Ruby, Centennial and Covington having good performance (Table 1, can be
found at http://news.msue.msu.edu/news/article/sweet_potatoes_move_north).
Georgia Jet has good yield, but has a high number of cracked root.
For more information on commercial vegetable production, contact Dr. Ron
Goldy, Michigan State University Extension vegetable educator at
269-944-1477 ext. 207 or [log in to unmask]
*Source:* MSU Extension News for Agriculture,
http://news.msue.msu.edu/news/article/sweet_potatoes_move_north.
*
*
*Organic farmers sue, seek protection from Monsanto* *by Carey Gillam*
More than 50 organic farmers, seed dealers, others sue
* Plaintiffs seek protection from Monsanto's patent claims
* Group says contamination a given as more GMOs approved
KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 29 (Reuters) - A consortium of U.S. organic farmers
and seed dealers filed suit against global seed giant Monsanto Co. (MON.N)
on Tuesday, in a move to protect themselves from what they see as a growing
threat in the company's arsenal of genetically modified crops.
The Public Patent Foundation (PUBPAT) filed the suit on behalf of more than
50 organizations challenging the chemical giant's patents on its genetically
modified seeds. The group is seeking a ruling that would prohibit Monsanto
from suing the farmers or dealers if their organic seed becomes contaminated
with Monsanto's patented biotech seed germplasm.
Monsanto is known for its zealous defense of its patents on a range of
genetically altered crops. Its patented "Roundup Ready" soybeans, corn and
cotton are favorites of U.S. farmers because of their ability to withstand
herbicide treatments.
Monsanto officials could not immediately be reached for comment.
But Monsanto has filed scores of lawsuits and won judgments against farmers
they claimed made use of their seed without paying required royalties. Many
farmers have claimed that their fields were inadvertently contaminated
without their knowledge, and the issue has been a topic of concern for not
only farmers, but also companies that clean and handle seed.
"This case asks whether Monsanto has the right to sue organic farmers for
patent infringement if Monsanto's genetically modified seed should land on
their property," said Dan Ravicher, executive director of PUBPAT, a
nonprofit legal services organization, which filed the suit in federal court
in the southern district of New York.
The suit also alleges that Monsanto's GMO seeds do more harm than good and
claims the patents on genetically modified seed are invalid because they
don't meet the "usefulness" requirement of patent law.
"Some say genetically modified seed can coexist with organic seed, but
history tells us that's not possible," said Ravicher. "It's actually in
Monsanto's financial interest to eliminate organic seed so that they can
have a total monopoly over our food supply."
The suit claims that if plaintiffs do not intend to use the transgenic seed
and their own seed is contaminated, Monsanto is committing a "trespass."
"As nontransgenic seed farmers and seed sellers, Plaintiffs already have to
deal with the constant threat of transgenic seed contamination that could
destroy their chosen livelihood. They should not also have to live with the
threat of being sued for patent infringement should that travesty come to
pass," the lawsuit states.
Monsanto's genetically altered seeds have been a market mainstay since the
mid-1990s, and many of its rivals have their own brands of biotech crops
that tolerate herbicide, resist insects and have other useful qualities
engineered into them.
(Reporting by Carey Gillam; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
*Source:*
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2011/03/29/monsanto-lawsuit-idUKN2929224220110329
.
*
Preparing for the Field Work**
*
*Relieving Arthritis Pain after a Long Day in the Fields** by Kelly Ewalt,
Michigan State University Extension*
Farm work can spur arthritis, but you can manage the pain with this helpful
advice.
According to the National AgrAbility Program, approximately one-third of
adult farmers suffer from arthritis. While not viewed as a traditional
disability, farmers who suffer from arthritis may have a hard time accessing
equipment, attaching implements or working with livestock. Simple pain
management techniques can help.
Exercise can help lessen the disabling effects of arthritis. Losing just one
pound of weight can lessen the pressure on joints by four to six pounds. Low
impact exercises can assist in increasing strength and range of motion.
Recommended exercises include walking, cycling and swimming, for 30-minute
intervals three times per week, and remember to include a warm up and cool
down.
Non-medicinal pain relief can be helpful as well. Heat therapy is best for
relieving soreness and stiffness. Systemic treatment such as warm showers or
whirlpools (20 minutes or less) penetrate deeply, while localized treatments
such as heating pads increase blood flow and oxygen to painful locations.
Cold therapy helps with swelling or sudden/acute pain. This type of therapy
works best at the onset of the pain and is most effective in 15- to
20-minute intervals repeated every 1-2 hours.
As always, listen to your body and consult your doctor before starting any
therapy program. For more information contact your local Arthritis
Foundation
*Source: *
http://news.msue.msu.edu/news/article/relieving_arthritis_pain_after_a_long_day_in_the_fields
*
Job Opportunities
*
*Food Safety Manager*
*Jacobs Farm/Del Cabo,* a grower/shipper of organic culinary herbs, cherry
tomatoes and vegetables is seeking a Food Safety Manager to be responsible
for the management and guidance of the Division of Food Safety. The Food
Safety Manger will oversee compliance of all facets of food safety
regulations.
*Responsibilities:*
- Supervise implementation of the corporate food safety program
- In conjunction with Senior Management Develop the product testing
matrix for food safety and pesticide screening
- Ensure that the proper procedures are used for in house testing for
pathogens on our products and vendor products
- Audits of the various facilities as directed by the VP Operations
- Ensure proper sanitation and maintenance of all corporate facilities
using corporate procedures and audits
- Review food safety procedures with the Manager at each corporate
location (or outside grower). Ensure they have instituted, and/or begun
institution of all GMP’s and GAP’s in Mexico and our food safety program in
California and all food safety issues are followed daily.
- Inform General Manager of any issues and needed corrective actions for
food safety
* Principal Duties:*
- Food safety audits
- Coordinate with other zone areas when problems arise and take action in
correcting the problem.
- With respect to the company food safety rules ensure the procedures are
followed at all times.
- Research and have complete knowledge ISO17025 for potential
implementation of an ISO certified lab, which could become a profit center
for the company
- Coordinate all training on food safety in US, GAPs and GMP’s for Mexico
(Director DC)
- Research and have complete knowledge of the CA Leafy Greens Agreement
Have comprehensive knowledge of the above in order that:
- You can clearly explain to the difference between the above
- Understand the various facets of each of the above in order that the
company can achieve and maintain the premiere food safety program in the
industry for our types of products
- Respond to all requests for information in regards to food safety
*Skills*
- Knowledge of practices and techniques of the different types of
equipment used in our new food safety program
- This includes learning the in house micro biological testing systems
- Ability to lead the company in food safety issues, with a small staff
of employees.
- Ability to understand and implement company policies.
- Experience in operating a computer for reporting needs.
- Learning to Plan, scheduling and managing inventoried dry goods for
purchasing
*Experience*
- 3-5 years experience supervising in packing house sanitation
- Knowledge of HAACP
- Bi-lingual in English/Spanish required
- Ability to travel between the US and various countries
*How: * Send resume to Lissett Ortega at *[log in to unmask]*.
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