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Michigan Organic News | February 11, 2013 | A Few More Weeks of Winter!
FROM THE CENTER FOR REGIONAL FOOD SYSTEMS & THE DESK OF VICKI MORRONE ([log in to unmask])
This info is for educational purposes only, it is not intended to promote products or companies.
IN THIS ISSUE
Education and Conferences
--Michigan Organic Reporting Session and Farmer/Researcher Priority Setting-3/1
--UP Beginning Farmers Webinar Series
--Mid-Winter Baking
--Michigan Farmers Market Conference 3/5-3/6
--Small Co-op Conference on 3/19
--Demystifying Organic Certification course
--MCCC Meeting
--Michigan Market Manager Certification Program
--MSU Field Crops Pest Management Meeting
--FamilyFarmed.org
Wholesale Success Trainings
NRCS WEBinars on organic and sustainable farming systems from 2/5-12/3
Jobs and Internships
--Big Head Farm seeking employee
--Tilian Residency Farm Manager
--Thornapple CSA Looking to Hire
--BTK Property Manager
National Organic Program News
--NSAC Weekly Roundup
--February E-News from Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York
News and Farming Updates
--Article: The Agricultural Fulcrum
--Rainwater system
--February Fruit Grower News
--Farm Bill News
--MSU Extension Updates
--CANR and AgBioResearch News
--USDA Surveys
--Vegetable Growers News
--National Organic Coalition News
Grant Opportunities
--NCR-SARE Announces Professional Development Awards
--USDA Finalized New Microloan Program
Requests
--Purchaser seeking non-GMO products
--Buckwheat as spider mite deterrent?
If you would like to access a searchable archive of the all the previous Mich-Organic listserv postings copy this URL and paste in your browser address field
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[log in to unmask] with Subscribe Michigan Organic [Your Name] as the subject. Content is provided for subscribers' benefit; not to promote or endorse products.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Education and Conferences
Michigan Organic Reporting Session and Farmer/Researcher Prioirty Session
Friday, March 1 at Brody Hall -MSU campus-off Harrison Rd, East Lansing, MI
Research results shared by MSU researchers & Maureen Wilmot from Organic Research and Farming Foundation (ORFF.org) shares about the Farm Bill and funding
opportunities for organic production and research support.
Day includes sessions, Graduate student poster presentations and
Farmers’ priority setting session. ALL farmers producing organically and educators from MSUE are strongly encouraged to join us for this important event and have your voices heard.
Visit
www.michiganorgani.msu.edu to register. Price is only $15 for farmers and students and $25 for all others.
9-5 pm. Lunch at Brody Café featuring MSU’s Student Organic Farm’s greens. FARMER WEBINARS
Five 2-hour evening internet based webinar sessions on topics of interest to beginning farmers: http://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?folder=upbegfarmer2013
MID-WINTER BAKING
Yes - winter baking season is here, and we are looking forward to holding several informative and FUN classes over the next several weeks. The classes focus on either traditional
breads or on gluten free baking practices. Linda leads classes on various breads that we bake here at the Mill, and Jody Nagy imparts her knowledge of gluten free baking - of breads, pastries, noodles, and more! Both types of classes include a mill tour.
They are informative and lots of fun - a great day to bring a friend or a group along, and to meet new people, as well.
In regular bread classes with Linda, you take home 2, 2lb loaves of bread that you made, along with recipes for both. These classes are $25 each, and last from 3 to 3 1/2 hours each.
In gluten free classes with Jody, you take home one of each of whatever it is you made that day, as well as recipes for each. These classes are $40 each, and last between 3-4 hours
each.
Classes are as follows:
Saturday, February 16, from 1-4 pm: Sourdough Bread and Dinner Rolls
Learn the sourdough process and take home some starter, in addition to your bread, to get going on your next loaf. We'll also make our soft dinner rolls - your choice of shape and filling, from everyone's favortie, cinnamon rolls, to cheesy, herb, or plain
in various shapes.
Saturday, February 23, from 11am until 3 pm: Gluten Free Baking with Jody You
and Jody will be baking gluten free waffles, gluten free tarts, AND gluten free noodles this time!! You'll be very busy, and learn LOTS!! She always serves delicious gluten free treats for people to enjoy while they're waiting for their baked goods to come
out of the oven, as well. This is sure to be a great class.
Sunday, March 3, from 1-4 pm: Marbled Rye with Dill/Cheese, and French Bread
These are two hearty breads, where you essentially learn three recipes. The Marbled Rye is a very pretty bread, as well as very tasty, while the French bread is the rustic, chewy crust and soft in the middle. This one is very easy and I think, the best bread
we make.
Saturday, March 16, from 11 - 2 pm: Gluten Free Baking with Jody Topic
to be announced, but she always does something unique and you'll be very happy with your results. I'll send out more specifics closer to the date.
Saturday, March 23, from 1-4 pm: Water Bagels and Multi Purpose, Filled Breads
This class has a lot of diversity. The multi purpose breads have a nice soft dough, and the bagel dough is extra dry and harder to work with. Really great for learning the keys to baking because of the contrast. Plus, both bread and bagels are DELICIOUS!!
Saturday, March 30, from 10 am until Noon: Hot Cross Buns for Easter Week-end
This shortened class features only the Hot Cross Buns. Bring family from out of town and have a great time, and bring home a dozen hot cross buns - full of fruit, extracts and spices - to eat for Easter dinner! Note: This class only is $20 each.
This is all we have for now, but we're likely to schedule a few more classes during the spring, so if these don't fit your schedule, keep your eyes open for new ones in April and
May.
Thanks everyone, and STAY WARM!!
Linda
(810) 735-9192
SMALL CO-OP CONFERENCE
There is a small co-op conference coming up on Tuesday, March 19 at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings, MI. The event is FREE, and I felt it might be of interest to those on
these lists as the hosting organization (MSU Product Center) is very much used to working with agriculture cooperatives, and is turning their attention to smaller and start-up cooperatives. Find out more info here:
www.events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?folder=MMCC03192013
A co-op structure can be a great way to do more with less by working together. If you are interested in learning more, please see the attached flyer and/or contact me off list.
Thanks and may 2013 be a great season for us all!
--
Chris Dilley, general manager
People's Food Co-op of Kalamazoo
507 Harrison Street
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
269/342.5686
DEMYSTIFYING ORGANIC CERTIFICATION: GET HELP NAVIGATING THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS
If you've been thinking about getting your farm certified as organic but aren't sure whether it's worth it, and find all the paperwork and requirements overwhelming,
this course is for you. This 6-week online course is facilitated by Laura Biasillo of Cornell Cooperative Extension Broome County and taught by representatives from NOFA-NY LLC (Northeast Organic Farming Association's certification arm), and designed to demystify
the certification process. The course is appropriate for total newbies as well as experienced growers contemplating the transition to organic. It won't teach you organic production techniques, but will help you understand the National Organic Program requirements,
learn who the certifiers are, evaluate whether certification is right for your operation, and walk you through the paperwork.
Join weekly live webinars on Tues. nights from the comfort of your living room, and participate in homework and discussions in the course's online classroom between
webinars. You'll learn from successful organic farmers about why they've chosen certification and what considerations might be most important for your farm.
The course begins Tues. Feb 12 and runs for 6 weeks. It costs $200 and registration is only open until the first day of the course, or until it fills, whichever
happens first. View Frequently Asked Questions about our online courses here: http://nebeginningfarmers.org/online-courses/online-course-faqs/.
To view the syllabus and learning objectives for BF 106: Organic Certification, or to register, visit:
http://nebeginningfarmers.org/online-courses/all-courses/bf-106-organic-certification/
MCCC ANNUAL MEETING
The MCCC annual meeting is coming up soon on February 28-March 1 2013 in London, Ontario. Each annual meeting we present a state update on cover crop projects. Please send me a
brief note about your cover crop research or demonstrations projects you were involved in this year. I will tabulate these and present it at the meeting. If I have missed someone please share this with them.
If you are interested in attending the meeting let Dean or I know. We should have a van leaving from MSU for the conference. Since it is in Canada you will need a passport.
Online registration is now available for those wishing to attend both days of the MCCC meeting (Feb. 28 and Mar.1) and for those wishing to attend day 1 only, which will feature
³Making $ense with Cover Crops². You can access links to both registration sites at:
http://www.mccc.msu.edu/MCCCmeeting.html
Also, the above link has hard copy brochures/forms for both registration types, which can be mailed in or faxed.
Thanks,
Dale
Dale R. Mutch PhD
Michigan State University Extension Senior Educator
Adjunct Professor Plant, Soil and Microbial Science
Cover Crop and IPM Extension Specialist
NCRSARE PDP Michigan State Coordinator
612 East Main Street
Centreville, Michigan 49032
269 467-5645 (Phone)
269 467-5641 (fax)
MICHIGAN MARKET MANAGER CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
Our Michigan Market Manager Certificate Program (see http://mifma.org/events/2013-market-manager-certificate-program/)
runs February 1, 2, 15, 16, and 22 and our Michigan Farmers Market Conference (see http://mifma.org/events/michigan-farmers-market-conference/) will
be held March 5 and 6. You are welcome to join us!
Thanks,
Dru Montri
Director
Michigan Farmers Market Association
480 Wilson Road, Room 172D
East Lansing, MI 48824
Ph: 517-432-3381
Fx: 517-353-7961
MSU FIELD CROPS PEST MANAGEMENT MEETING
This meeting will provide you with the latest research results and recommendations for field crop weed control, insect and disease control and crop fertilization to prepare you for
the 2013 growing season. The cost of each meeting is $40 per person which includes lunch and materials. Each meeting will begin at 9:00 A.M. and go through 4:15 P.M. Find out more here: http://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?folder=pestmgnt2013
WHOLESALE SUCCESS TRAININGS
Unless otherwise noted, all dates are for 2013. For more information and/or to register for a workshop, contact the specific partner(s) in your region: www.familyfarmed.org/wholesalesuccess/wholesale-success-trainings/
NRCS Webinars on Sustainable and Organic Production
2013 Understanding Organic and Sustainable Agriculture Webinars
3:00 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern
~ 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Pacific
February 5-Dec 3, every first Tuesday
Visit
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb1046783.pdf
For Details
BIG HEAD FARM
Big Head Farm is a for-profit certified organic farm. We offer Community Supported Agriculture shares (CSA) to our members and community. We attend two farmers markets in Chicago,
IL and run two on farm markets including u-pick blueberries during the season.
Qualifications:
Accounting Skills
This person will need skills to manage the organization’s monthly account records and be fluent in Quick Books software. Management includes balancing account statements using online
banking, to track check activity, both accounts receivable and accounts payable Account activity is generated from supply purchases for the farm, bill payment, payroll, and sales.
Social Networking Management
Candidate must also have knowledge and ability to maintain, update and modify our organization’s Facebook, twitter, blog and other networking pages to reflect current news and events.
This person will be expected to input information on the WEB on a timely basis, where we offer information on the farm and events as well as our weekly CSA newsletter. We will need timely promotion of any events via the WEB, and through our on-line newsletter
and Mail Chimp email program.
Overall Expectations
The person selected will need strong organizational skills to assure the farm’s account information and required record keeping is kept up to date. The person should have familiarity
with agriculture and local marketing and be invested in the values of organic food and production. We are a very small organization so this person will be the key to maintaining quality communication and information flow amongst the owners and staff and our
customers (social networking).
Of course, this may not be all that we will need you to do and are looking for someone to help contribute to the success of the farm in all aspects of our operations. Please respond
to [log in to unmask]. Expectant hire date: 2/15/2013.
Karen Warner
269-605-9527
follow us on Twitter @bigheadfarm
and like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Head-Farm/46885236841
TILIAN RESIDENCY FARM MANAGER: FOOD SYSTEM ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
Position Title: Tilian Residency Farm Manager (grant and produce sales funded)
Reports To: Tilian Farm Development Center Program Manager
FLSA Status: Full Time Salaried/ Exempt
Background:
Tilian Residency Farm and Farmer Residency Program are part of the Tilian Farm Development Center. The mission of Tilian FDC is to facilitate new farm business development in south
east Michigan that helps grow food for our local foodshed. The Farmer Residency Program is analogous to a Medical residency and is designed to give individuals with training or other qualifying experiences the opportunity to be the paid manager of a year
round farming operation for two years under the mentorship of more experienced farmers in order to build the management skills and confidence necessary to start and run their own farming operation either at Tilian as part of the Farm Incubator program or elsewhere.
The Residency Farm is Tilian’s anchor or home farm with the opportunity to serve as a working demonstration of scalability as well as a catalyst for new market development and production that in collaboration with the Food System Economic Partnership’s (FSEP)
other programming is facilitating further development of the local food system in south east Michigan.
Summary:
In the Residency Farm’s second year, we are seeking a manager with a higher degree of experience and confidence to collaborate with the Tilian FDC program manager to build on the
1st years successes and expand the farms production, markets,
and sales while developing elements of the program components. This position will be the primary on the ground farm manager in charge of all day to day operations from transplant production, crop establishment and management, to harvest, post harvest and
sale/distribution including the hiring and management of the seasonal farm crew. This work will be done with the support, mentorship and collaboration of the Tilian FDC Program Manager.
Essential Functions:
· Work with the Tilian FDC Program Manager to grow current and develop additional marketing outlets for Residency Farm produce including but not limited to , CSA, farmers markets,
institutional sales, sales through local growers cooperatives, and other wholesale accounts;
· Hire, train and manage a seasonal paid farm crew as well as work with any volunteers;
· Build on the Residency Farm’s initial 2012 crop plan and 5 acres of production to develop 2013 and 2014 crop plans that expand production to meet the needs of the markets developed
above;
· Generate sufficient revenue and accompanying business model in collaboration the Tilian FDC manager to support the Residency Farm Manager position and possibly others beyond the
2013 USDA Beginning Farmer Rancher grant from produce sales;
· Mange all aspects of day to day operations of a year round diversified vegetable farm including, planting, cultivation, soil, pest, disease management, harvest and post harvest
handling, quality control, sales and distribution;
· Maintain the Residency Farms physical appearance such that it is suitable for the public;
· Work with Tilian FDC Program Manager to solidify Residency Farm program components, including job descriptions, standard operating procedures etc. that allow the successful operation
of the Residency Farm and Program and it transfer to new Residency Farm Mangers;
· If applicable select (with participation of others), train and collaborate with new junior Residency Farm Manager in year two of the position;
· Attend weekly meetings and farm walks of all Tilian Farmers (Incubator and Residency) to collaborate, coordinate and engage in peer to peer learning and sharing;
· Participate in Tilian events as applicable.
Excellent candidates for this position will possess strong experience and knowledge of organic or ecological vegetable production, experience managing a team of workers, a demonstrated
aptitude to engage and cultivate new relationships with our community, and a strong, self-motivating work ethic. Ideal candidates will have previous experience running a CSA farm of 50 or more shares, experience in year-round production techniques, soil,
pest and disease management experience and tractor equipment experience.
Qualifications
· 2 to 3 years experience and or training in farm production and management
· Strong knowledge of organic or ecological vegetable production
· Knowledge and experience in use of farm equipment
· Highly self motivated and demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision
· Proven ability to handle the mental and physical demands of a farming season
· Strong commitment to and value for the production of the highest quality produce
· Demonstrated ability to work well with people from a variety of backgrounds
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills
· Excellent computer skills
Additional Desired Skills
· Hoophouse production experience
· Familiarity with Incubator Farms, local food and farming movements,
· Program development and implementation skills
Dates: Proposed Position dates February, 2012 – December, 2014
Compensation: $25,000 to $28,000/yr salary with possible end of season bonus based on
farms success.
To apply send resume and cover letter to:
[log in to unmask]
Ideal start date would be late February 2013. Application deadline is February 15th 2013 or until filled.
--
Jeremy Moghtader
Director, Organic Farmer Training Program
Farm Manager, Student Organic Farm
Michigan State University
THORNAPPLE CSA LOOKING TO HIRE
Thornapple CSA is looking for a new farmer for our 2013 season. Thornapple CSA is a member-organized community supported agriculture in the Greater Lansing Area. The CSA operates
on a typical CSA model with member purchased shares delivered weekly between early June and mid October. Production occurs in a leased plot and hoophouse located at Appleschram Orchard, about 17 miles west of Lansing. Distribution is by member pick-up at a
home in Lansing or on the farm.
What we expect from our farmer:
1. The farmer will devote full-time working hours to the CSA between mid April and mid October 2013.
2. The farmer will work diligently on behalf of the CSA to provide the best variety and quantity of produce shares that nature will allow.
3. The farmer will co-labor with CSA members, and while working together will educate members on agricultural methods as appropriate.
4. The farmer will maintain regular communication regarding the status of the farm with Jane Bush (the landowner) and Thornapple CSA Core Group.
What the farmer can expect from Thornapple CSA:
1. The farmer will be compensated according to a negotiated agreement that will include some combination of salary, on-farm housing, opportunity for extra income from sale of farm-produced
goods and/or time off for in-season off-farm employment.
2. The CSA will be responsible for farm expenses including the seed order and inputs consistent with organic production systems.
3. Partial work days (sweat equity) from CSA members.
4. The CSA Core Group will maintain regular communication with the farmer and as much as possible provide support in the form of equipment, scheduling changes, ideas and any other
matters requested by the farmer.
Please respond to [log in to unmask] or call Diane Thompson, Core Group Coordinator at 517 230-5821.
Website: thornapplecsa.com
BTK FARM SEEKING PROPERTY MANAGER
GOAL: Develop U-pick organic berry farm with farm stand
PROPERTY: 18 acres of vacant land on East Holly Road (Exit 98 off of I-75) near Holly High School, Oakland County, Michigan. Gentle slope front of property to back. Has been
farmed many years ago (15+ years ago). Currently, 15 acres have been cleared. The close proximity to northern Detroit suburbs, Pontiac and Flint markets and the high volume road frontage makes for an excellent location for a farm stand and U-pick business.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Looking for a property manager to direct the development and maintenance of the property. Requires knowledge of organic farming. Duties would include preparation
of soil, institution of an irrigation and drainage system; supervising planting, pest control, fertilizing and pruning. Heavy work would be contracted out. Would prefer a person with an interest in solar energy and researching of state and federal grants
related to organic farming.
SPECIFIC GOALS: Grow raspberries, blueberries and strawberries for a U-pick business. Smaller area of sweet cherry trees and some apple trees for personal use. Find a beekeeper
interested in placing hives on the property.
COMPENSATION: The property manager would have access to acreage for their personal use. Currently, there is no housing on the property. Salary would be dependent on experience and
level of expertise. Limited health care benefits available.
Contact Nancy Kursik at
[log in to unmask]
NSAC WEEKLY ROUNDUP
To access the full articles simply click on the title and you'll be taken to the specific post page. In this Week's Roundup...
Action Alert
We're
ready to make 2013 count. Are you?
We’ve got our work cut out for us this year: there’s a new 2013 Farm Bill on the horizon, there’s funding for critical sustainable agriculture programs to protect (and win back!),
and we must weigh in on behalf of family farmers on the FDA’s first overhaul of food safety rules in a generation. All of this matters for the future of food and farms across the country – and it’s up to us to speak out for the future we want. Help us make
it happen – share
this message with a friend, find us on Facebook and Twitter, and stay tuned!
Congressional News
New
Budget Timeline – A Way Forward for Farm Bill?
On Thursday, January 31 the Senate approved the bill to postpone the debt ceiling battle for four months. The proposal was developed by the House Republicans. The Senate adopted
the House GOP measure by a vote of 64-34, albeit with only 11 Senate Republicans in support. Read
more...
EPA News
EPA
Proposes Continued Focus on CAFO Compliance and Enforcement
Every three years, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) asks for public comment on its National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives for addressing important environmental
problems. EPA selects the initiatives based on (1) the severity of the pollution problem; (2) a determination that noncompliance with an environmental law enforced by EPA is a significant issue; and (3) a determination that federal enforcement can make a
difference. Read more...
NORTHEAST ORGANIC FARMING ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK
Read the latest here:
Classifieds
SPIDER MITE DETERRENT
All of you organic farmers! Erin Taylor from MSU is asking if anyone has used or is using buckwheat as a crop to deter spider mites around tomatoes. Has anyone tried that? It would
be great to let her know ([log in to unmask]) or let everyone know on the listserv and share the knowledge.
LOOKING FOR SUPPLIERS OF THE FOLLOWING NON-GMO PRODUCTS
Pricing discussion to follow before firm contracts can be offered.
Projections of Non-GMO corn and Non-GMO soybean meal per month? 1 load corn/week. 1 load soybeans every other week.
When do you want to begin receiving this? Uncertain but projecting July deliveries.
Is there any required testing involved for GMOs? If so, are there deviations from 100%? We will test at receiving with an expectation of 97% purity. Less than 97 % purity will
be rejected.
Can the corn and soys be grown with chemicals? Yes, chemicals can be used
Organic Vision NA
Attn: Mike Pratt
432 Carrington Drive
Boiling Springs, SC 29316 USA
Tel/Fax: 864-278-0249
Cell: 734-780-6700
Certified NOP Organic by OEFFA
News and Farming Updates
"THE ATLANTIC" ARTICLE: THE AGRICULTURAL FULCRUM
The National Climate Assessment, released this week, predicted increasingly negative impact of weather extremes on crops. But with industrialized farming as a key player in greenhouse
gas emissions and climate change, the vicious cycle needs breaking. Read more: www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2013/01/the-agricultural-fulcrum-better-food-better-climate/267298/
A BETTER RAINWATER-HARVESTING SYSTEM
Harvesting rainwater to use for growing vegetables makes a great deal of sense. Unfortunately, the most common method of rainwater harvesting isn’t the most effective. Typically,
gardeners invest in a rain barrel — which holds only 50 or 60 gallons of water — and then dole out the captured water to plants as needed, hopefully emptying the barrel before the next storm.
NEW ARTICLES FROM
FRUITGROWERNEWS.COM
http://fruitgrowersnews.com/index.php/magazine/issue/february-2013
FARM BILL NEWS
|
Looking
At One Aspect Of The Farm Bill: Food Stamps
The farm bill might be better named the food bill. After all, only 11% of funding in the farm bill goes to farm policies. More than 84% of farm bill-related
spending goes to such food and nutrition programs as food stamps. Learn more about the farm ... |
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|
“Right
to Farm” bill's face
makes her case on Fox TV
Lingamfelter's characterization of the case inaccurate and inflammatory. The board of supervisors — along with peers in Clarke, Rockingham, Shenandoah and other farming counties
— have adopted resolutions opposing Del. Lingamfelter's House Bill 1430. |
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|
How
will the farm bill affect you? Find out tonight at Irregardless Cafe.
Jared Cates of the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association speaks tonight on the environmental, agricultural and nutritional implications of the federal farm bill. The
2008 Farm Bill expired last year; although Congress failed to renew it, lawmakers ... |
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Rural
America must speak up to get farm bill, Tonsager says
"When we talk about a farm bill, it is still very modest," he said. "The biggest part of the program is food and nutrition, which is very important, but it is a very
large fraction of the overall farm bill. Most of the rest of it is pretty modest ... |
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|
Column:
Fighting future drought with the next Farm Bill
The drought that plagued our state and the rest of the country last year was a nightmare come true for many. Farmers and ranchers suffered record losses, and may have
still not recovered. With drought expected to become a more frequent occurrence in ... |
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|
WASHINGTON — Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., on Jan. 22 introduced last year's Senate-passed version of the farm bill as one of several “privileged, top priority
bills” while House Agriculture Committee Chairman Frank Lucas, R-Okla ... |
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MSU EXTENSION NEWS
CANR AND AG-BIO-RESEARCH NEWS
The following are news items about CANR, AgBioResearch and MSU Extension that were published in the media recently. If you have a program featured in the news, please contact
Fran Adelaja at [log in to unmask].
Soybean
Cyst Nematodes Cannot Be Ignored - Know Your Levels
Source: Michigan Farmer
1/23/13
Written by Michigan State University Extension educator Dan Rossman
... That is not the end of the story. Soybean cyst nematodes can be found in all parts of the state on all types of soil. In 2012, all of the Michigan State University Extension on-farm
soybean variety performance trial sites in Gratiot County were sampled for soybean cyst nematodes. ...
From
Sow To Nursery Winter Meetings Set
Source: Michigan Farmer
1/22/13
Michigan State University Extension will be hosting educational workshops on four days
in January throughout Michigan to discuss important topics that impact the transition of the weaned pig from the sow to the nursery environment. The topics of discussion include Pig Environment ...
MSU
biofuels expert in top 100 of industry
Source: Michigan Ag Connection
01/21/2013
Michigan State University (MSU) AgBioResearch scientist Bruce Dale was recently ranked 22th
and was the top-ranked academic on BioFuels Digest's 2012-13 list of the Top 100 People in Bioenergy. ..."Bruce is an outstanding scientist, who has shown tremendous leadership in the biofuels arena," said Steve Pueppke, AgBioResearch director and MSU
associate vice president for research and graduate studies. ...
NOTEBOOK:
Product center a quiet booster
Source: crainsdetroit.com
1/21/13
... the Michigan State University Product Center has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs develop and commercialize products and grow businesses, ... Matt Birbeck, project
manager with the center's high-impact venture action team, said the center has grown by ...
Crop
Production Boosted 145% in Drought Conditions with Water-Saving Membranes
Source: treehugger.com
1/21/13
... Scientists at Michigan State University have invented an innovative new tool for farmers ... Alvin Smucker, an MSU AgBioResearch scientist and professor of soil biophysics,
led the development of a subsurface water retention membrane that has been shown to increase vegetable Š
See similar story here.
Source: Grand Traverse Insider
1/21/13
Registration for the next Leelanau/Grand Traverse/Benzie region Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) Master Gardener Volunteer Training Class, scheduled to run from
Feb. 27 through May 22, is now open. The 13-session course will be held from...
Horticultural
Days Conference is Fast Approaching
Source: wsjm.com
1/21/13
... February 6th and 7th the annual Southwest Michigan Horticultural Days conference will take place at Lake Michigan College's Mendel Center in Benton Harbor.Mark Longstroth
of the MSU Extension says for Michigan, this is the Super Bowl of the fruit and vegetable world. ...
Modern
food supply technology 'key to affordable food'
Source: SciDev.net
1/18/13
The modernisation of farm-to-market supply chains is important for increasing farmers' income, alleviating poverty, ... Thomas Reardon, a professor in the Department of Agricultural,
Food and Resource Economics at Michigan State University, United States, and one of the book's authors, says ...
Wheat
Yields Trending Upward In Michigan
Source: Michigan Farmer
1/18/13
Written by Michigan State University Extension educator Martin Nagelkirk
... the industry is looking for ways to keep yields on this upward trend. To achieve continued success, Michigan State University Extension recommends growers remain vigilant
relative to improvements in fertilization practices, disease management and varietal selection. ...
Dearborn
residents suggest retail, restaurants, trails at passenger train station
Source: Detroit News
01/18/2013
... are talking with landowners and community members for their input on the land both north and south of Michigan Avenue, said Warren Rauhe, professor for the School of Planning,
Design & Construction at Michigan State University. "Our job is to bring to one point in time a vision ...
Allegan
riverfront design meetings draw crowds, ideas
Source: The Allegan County News
1/16/13
When Warren Rauhe returns to town in March, he hopes to bring with him detailed plans for redesigning the City of Allegan¹s riverfront area. ... The Michigan State University
associate professor said the community had shown a great deal of interest in the project. ...
Could
some Midwest land support new biofuel refineries?
Source: NPR
01/16/2013
... Millions of acres of marginal farmland in the Midwest ‹ land that isn't in good enough condition to grow crops ‹ could be used to produce liquid fuels made from plant material,
... So G. Philip Robertson and colleagues at Michigan State University's Kellogg Biological Station have Š
See similar story here.
Michigan
State School of Packaging to host Student Packaging Jamboree
Source: Packaging World
1/16/13
Michigan State University¹s School of Packaging will host the 28th-annual Student Packaging
Jamboree March 21-23, 2013. The Jamboree will provide an opportunity for packaging students throughout the nation and Canada to unite for a weekend of networking and learning. ...
Snow:
A Welcome Sight For Farmers
Source: Michigan Farmer
1/15/13
Written by Michigan State University Extension educator James DeDecker
... Healthy cattle can ingest much of their water requirement as snow when grazed on winter pasture.
USDA DATA
From Steve Diver
Here's a couple access points on where all this data winds up and how it is used to understand increasing or declining acreages of crops per state/per county, how much land is devoted
to crops vs grazing lands, specialty and nursery crops, irrigated vs non-irrigated crop production, etc
1. The Agricultural Census feeds into USDA National Agricultural Statistics which feeds into USDA Economic Research Service findings and reports.
USDA-ERS Organic Costs and Returns: www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/commodity-costs-and-returns/organic-costs-and-returns.aspx
USDA-ERS Publications on Organic Agriculture: www.ers.usda.gov/topics/natural-resources-environment/organic-agriculture/readings.aspx
2.1 USDA Census of Agriculture Publications -- Recent and Historical: www.agcensus.usda.gov/Publications/index.php
2.2: USDA Census of Agriculture Historical Archive - Cornell's Mann Library: http://agcensus.mannlib.cornell.edu/AgCensus/homepage.do;jsessionid=D039AA7832F32D3D9C408F2E704636FF
Historical agricultural data by State and County from 1927 to 1987, eventually back to 1840.
From Jane Sooby
Q: A farmers market friend asked me about a "required by law" survey from USDA which
he received asking about all his food production. (A bystander when he asked me about it suggested reporting he grows weeds and raises grasshoppers, which was uncomfortably close to what I accomplished last year.) I wasn't aware of the survey, but then it's
been years since I last grew any food for sale and I think I completed something of the sort years ago. What he described as having found on the Internet implied the survey's intent is an evil attempt to figure out where to go to confiscate food in an emergency
or else some part of Monsanto's attempt to control ALL food production and eliminate all backyard gardening. I have trouble buying into either of those explanations. Whatever the purpose, it apparently wasn't communicated very clearly. Can anyone enlighten
me as to the survey's purpose?
Regards,
Edna
A:
Perhaps I shouldn't be surprised that there is so much paranoia around the Census of Ag, which has been conducted since 1840. It is not a nefarious gov't plot to control
the food supply or farmers, it's an attempt to quantify agriculture in the U.S. and provide those data to the public.
Are you interested in how average farm size has changed over the years? How many African American farmers there are now compared to the 1960s? Whether the number of women owning
farms has increased? Ag Census data will tell you all this and more.
The data are used in a variety of ways; perhaps one of the most common is as a basis for federal ag policy. For example, when the ag census shows a marked increase in number of
certified organic producers, policymakers pay more attention to meeting organic farmers' needs. When average farm size is on a downward trend, programs supporting small farmers might be needed.
In USDA language, "The Census of Agriculture is the leading source of facts and figures about American agriculture. Conducted every five years, the Census provides a detailed picture
of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. It is the only source of uniform, comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the United States."
See for yourself: www.agcensus.usda.gov/
Sincerely,
Jane Sooby
Organic Science and Consulting
Santa Cruz, CA
phone 831-425-7205
VEGETABLE GROWERS NEWS ONLINE
Read here: www.icontact-archive.com/PX0U1-9kSYN6qQDBoIYTIUTtsXSRcxUu?w=4
NATIONAL ORGANIC COALITION NEWS
Grant Opportunities
NCR-SARE ANNOUNCES 2012 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARDS
From programs that will train tribal educators to a project that will build community support for local food, the North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education
Program (NCR-SARE) program recommended funding nearly $650,000 in Professional Development Program grants in 2012. NCR-SARE Professional Development Program competitive grants emphasize training agricultural educators in extension, Natural Resources Conservation
Service, private, and not-for-profit sectors, using farmers as educators and addressing emerging issues in the farm community.
NCR-SARE administers each of its grant programs, each with specific priorities, audiences, and timelines. The focus for each of the NCR-SARE grant programs is on research and education.
Funding considerations are made based on how well the applicant articulates the nature of the research and education components of their sustainable agriculture grant proposals.
•
With this $75,000 Professional Development Program grant, Ross Racine and the Intertribal Agriculture Council will conduct the project, “Sustainable
Agricultural Workshop Series for Tribal Educators,” in Wis., Mich., and Minn.
•
With this $74,842 Professional Development Program grant, Erin Lizotte of Michigan State University will conduct the project, “Enhancing the Integrated
Pest Management Academy to Provide Professional Development Opportunities for Agricultural Educators that Increase Economically and Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture in Michigan.”
•
With this $74,980 Professional Development Program grant, Glenn Muske of North Dakota State University will conduct the project, “Expanding Opportunities
for Sustainable Small Farm Specialty Crop Producers: Training Educators in Feasibility Analysis, Marketing, and Community Building.”
•
With this $59,296 Professional Development Program grant, Ajay Nair of Iowa State University will conduct the project, “Educating Agricultural
Professionals and Extension Educators in Developing Sustainable and Resilient Cropping Systems through Integration of Cover Crops.”
•
With this $75,000 Professional Development Program grant, Brigid Quinn at Little Priest Tribal College in Winnebago, Neb, will conduct the project,
“Indigenous Cultivar and Wildcrafting Curriculum.”
•
With this $75,000 Professional Development Program grant project, Tom Redfern and Rural Action in Ohio will partner with Green Edge Organic Gardens
(GEOG)to conduct the project, “Beyond Season Extension: High Tunnels for Season Creation and Economic, Community, and Environmental Sustainability.”
•
With this $74,385 Professional Development Program grant project, Michele Schermann of the University of Minnesota will conduct the project, “Growing
a Network of GAPs Educators in the Upper Midwest.”
•
With this $64,934 Professional Development Program grant project, Lois Wright Morton, and research associate Jamie Benning, at Iowa State University
will conduct the project, “Building Capacity for Climate Extension.”
•
With this $72,484 Professional Development Program grant project, Michael Gold of the University of Missouri will conduct the project, “Increasing
Agroforestry Adoption and Networking in the Midwest through Targeted Professional Development.” Gold’s project has been named as the 2012 Paula Ford Professional Development Program Proposal of the Year. From 1991-1997 Dr. Ford was the Program Coordinator
for the Southern Region SARE program. She was the NCR-SARE Professional Development Program Coordinator at Kansas State University for 11 years (1999-2009), and supported sustainable agriculture and SARE for more than 20 years. To honor Dr. Ford's contributions
to NCR-SARE, the Administrative Council created the "Paula Ford Professional Development Program Proposal of the Year" award. Each year, one Professional Development Program funded project in the North Central region is given this special designation. The
region selects the project that best exemplifies Dr. Ford's contributions and passion for evaluation, professional development and/or science-based research.
A complete list of these 2012 Professional Development Grant Program projects as well as copies of the project abstracts can be found online athttp://www.northcentralsare.org/Grants/Recent-Grant-Projects.
Professional Development Program grants are one of five grant opportunities NCR-SARE offers to enhance sustainable agriculture outreach and education throughout the North Central
region. Calls for preproposals and proposals for each of the grant programs and are released on an annual basis. For more information about NCR-SARE and our grant programs, visit http://www.northcentralsare.org.
For more information contact NCR-SARE at 612-626-3113 or [log in to unmask].
USDA FINALIZES NEW MICROLOAN PROGRAM
Microloans up to $35,000 aim to assist small farmers, veterans, and disadvantaged producers. Read the article here: www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/newsReleases?area=newsroom&subject=landing&topic=ner&newstype=newsrel&type=detail&item=nr_20130115_rel_0010.html
NCR-SARE Announces 2012 Professional Development Program Awards
From programs that will train tribal educators to a project that will build community support for local food, the North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education
Program (NCR-SARE) program recommended funding nearly $650,000 in Professional Development Program grants in 2012. NCR-SARE Professional Development Program competitive grants emphasize training agricultural educators in extension, Natural Resources Conservation
Service, private, and not-for-profit sectors, using farmers as educators and addressing emerging issues in the farm community.
NCR-SARE administers each of its grant programs, each with specific priorities, audiences, and timelines. The focus for each of the NCR-SARE grant programs is on research and
education. Funding considerations are made based on how well the applicant articulates the nature of the research and education components of their sustainable agriculture grant proposals.
•
With this $75,000 Professional Development Program grant, Ross Racine and the Intertribal Agriculture Council will conduct the project, “Sustainable
Agricultural Workshop Series for Tribal Educators,” in Wis., Mich., and Minn.
•
With this $74,842 Professional Development Program grant, Erin Lizotte of Michigan State University will conduct the project, “Enhancing the Integrated
Pest Management Academy to Provide Professional Development Opportunities for Agricultural Educators that Increase Economically and Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture in Michigan.”
•
With this $74,980 Professional Development Program grant, Glenn Muske of North Dakota State University will conduct the project, “Expanding Opportunities
for Sustainable Small Farm Specialty Crop Producers: Training Educators in Feasibility Analysis, Marketing, and Community Building.”
•
With this $59,296 Professional Development Program grant, Ajay Nair of Iowa State University will conduct the project, “Educating Agricultural
Professionals and Extension Educators in Developing Sustainable and Resilient Cropping Systems through Integration of Cover Crops.”
•
With this $75,000 Professional Development Program grant, Brigid Quinn at Little Priest Tribal College in Winnebago, Neb, will conduct the project,
“Indigenous Cultivar and Wildcrafting Curriculum.”
•
With this $75,000 Professional Development Program grant project, Tom Redfern and Rural Action in Ohio will partner with Green Edge Organic Gardens
(GEOG)to conduct the project, “Beyond Season Extension: High Tunnels for Season Creation and Economic, Community, and Environmental Sustainability.”
•
With this $74,385 Professional Development Program grant project, Michele Schermann of the University of Minnesota will conduct the project, “Growing
a Network of GAPs Educators in the Upper Midwest.”
•
With this $64,934 Professional Development Program grant project, Lois Wright Morton, and research associate Jamie Benning, at Iowa State University
will conduct the project, “Building Capacity for Climate Extension.”
•
With this $72,484 Professional Development Program grant project, Michael Gold of the University of Missouri will conduct the project, “Increasing
Agroforestry Adoption and Networking in the Midwest through Targeted Professional Development.” Gold’s project has been named as the 2012 Paula Ford Professional Development Program Proposal of the Year. From 1991-1997 Dr. Ford was the Program Coordinator
for the Southern Region SARE program. She was the NCR-SARE Professional Development Program Coordinator at Kansas State University for 11 years (1999-2009), and supported sustainable agriculture and SARE for more than 20 years. To honor Dr. Ford's contributions
to NCR-SARE, the Administrative Council created the "Paula Ford Professional Development Program Proposal of the Year" award. Each year, one Professional Development Program funded project in the North Central region is given this special designation. The
region selects the project that best exemplifies Dr. Ford's contributions and passion for evaluation, professional development and/or science-based research.
A complete list of these 2012 Professional Development Grant Program projects as well as copies of the project abstracts can be found online at
http://www.northcentralsare.org/Grants/Recent-Grant-Projects.
###
