Educational Opportunities
Hooping It Up III
Date: March 28, 2015
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Location: Les Cheneaux Culinary School, 186 S. Pickford Ave, Hessel, MI 49745
Contact: Nome Buckman, 906-322-3555
Topics include: sowing and growing schedules for the UP, secrets to healthy soils, food safety and a panel of local hoop house growers. Lunch provided by the Les Cheneaux Culinary School. Cost is $10 per person. Program is followed by the opportunity to tour two local hoop houses.
Workshop is located at Les Cheneaux Culinary School, 186 S. Pickford Ave, Hessel, MI 49745 (just south of the blinker light in Hessel)
Download the flier for additional information.<http://msue.anr.msu.edu/uploads/219/66061/Hooping_it_up_III_Flyer.pdf>
MICHIGAN ANNOUNCES NEW WILD-FORAGED MUSHROOM HARVESTING CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Michigan Announces New Wild-Foraged Mushroom Harvesting Certification Program
Agency: Agriculture and Rural Development
For immediate release: March 25, 2015
Media contacts: Chris Wright, 248-957-8881; [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> or Jennifer Holton, 517-284-5724, [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>
Wild mushrooms, like morels and chanterelles, help define the forests of Michigan and provide potential income streams for foragers, farmers, restaurateurs and food entrepreneurs. But improperly identified, these foods can also pose serious health risks.
Michigan’s Food Code requires that mushroom species picked in the wild must be obtained from sources where each mushroom is individually inspected and found to be safe by an approved mushroom identification expert. Working closely with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), a curriculum to train and certify foragers who commercially harvest and sell wild mushrooms in Michigan has been developed by Midwest American Mycology Information (MAMI), the Institute for Sustainable Living, Art & Natural Design (ISLAND), and the Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA).
The program is designed to bring mushroom sellers in line with the regulations, but is also available for anyone who may be responsible for the purchase of mushrooms to be consumed by the general public or sold at retail.
“Although the requirement for becoming an approved mushroom identification expert has been part of the Michigan Food Law for several years, our state has seen huge growth in both the demand for local products, including wild-foraged mushrooms, and the number of people interested in getting into mushroom harvesting and sales,” said Kevin Besey, MDARD Food and Dairy Division director. “The new certification program will help provide proper training and approval, while assuring public health with regard to the identification, sale, purchase, preparation and service of wild-foraged mushrooms.”
ISLAND, MIFMA and MAMI, through a Food Safety Education Fund grant administered by MDARD, will hold training and certification programs throughout the state, just in time for morel season. The full-day training sessions will focus on the biology and morphological characteristics used in the identification of mushrooms, and include hands-on work with specimens, direct interaction with mycologists, and a written exam at the end of the day. A test score of 80 percent or higher is required to receive a certification as an approved mushroom identification expert, and the certification is valid for five years.
Cost for the training, which includes lunch, is $175 per person for those who wish to be certified. Farmers, farmers market managers, chefs, restaurant owners, purchasing agents for grocers, and others who may have interest in attending a workshop but not necessarily in obtaining certification, may attend for the reduced rate of $85. Registration is available online at www.midwestmycology.org<http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTUwMzI1LjQzMzgxNzAxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE1MDMyNS40MzM4MTcwMSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE3NDIxMTE5JmVtYWlsaWQ9YW5kb3JmZXJiQG1pY2hpZ2FuLmdvdiZ1c2VyaWQ9YW5kb3JmZXJiQG1pY2hpZ2FuLmdvdiZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&105&&&http://www.midwestmycology.org/>. Registration for each session closes at midnight on the Sunday prior to the training session.
Training dates and locations:
Saturday, April 18, 2015, 9 am – 5 pm Constitution Hall 525 W. Allegan Street, Lansing
Saturday, April 25, 2015, 9 am – 5 pm Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center, 6686 S. Center Highway, Traverse City
Saturday, May 2, 2015, 9 am – 5 pm Marquette Food Co-op, 502 W. Washington Street, Marquette
Michigan mushroom foragers are excited about the development of a program that will pave the way for them to legally harvest and broker wild foraged mushrooms. Jim Moses and his wife, Linda Grigg, foragers from Maple City, with more than five decades of mushrooming experience are pleased to see Michigan offer the new training program. "We are thankful for the partnership with MDARD to help provide an open, accessible program to approve foragers to sell wild mushrooms," said Jim Moses.
For more information, contact Chris Wright from Midwest American Mycological Information, at [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>, or visit www.midwestmycology.org<http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTUwMzI1LjQzMzgxNzAxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE1MDMyNS40MzM4MTcwMSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE3NDIxMTE5JmVtYWlsaWQ9YW5kb3JmZXJiQG1pY2hpZ2FuLmdvdiZ1c2VyaWQ9YW5kb3JmZXJiQG1pY2hpZ2FuLmdvdiZmbD0mZXh0cmE9TXVsdGl2YXJpYXRlSWQ9JiYm&&&106&&&http://www.midwestmycology.org/>.
The North Farm Extension Workshop Series - Siting and Planning for Hoophouses
Date: April 11, 2015
Time: 2 - 4 p.m.
Location: The North Farm, E3774 University Drive, Chatham, MI
Contact: [log in to unmask] or 906-439-5059
All workshops start at 2 p.m. EST and are located at The North Farm, E3774 University Drive, Chatham, MI - 1 mile north of the Village of Chatham on the Rock River Road
Participants have two registration options:
1. Individuals - select the “Participant Registration” option and select workshops you plan to attend. Workshops are $10/class/person or you can register for the entire series for $50/person.
2. Farms or Groups - select the “Farm or Group Registration” option and select the workshops your group plans to attend. Workshops are $15/class/group or you can register your group for the entire series for $75/group.
Workshop options include:
Siting and Planning for Hoophouses — April 11, 2 hours
Site preparation is arguably the most crucial point in hoophouse construction. Join The North Farm for a discussion regarding proper site preparation and considerations for hoophouses and learn about drainage, solar exposure, anchoring mechanisms, and snow load considerations. This workshop will be incredibly valuable for individuals in the planning stages of their hoophouse construction.
**Each workshop also qualifies for education hours for MSUE Master Gardeners!**
Register by clicking here<http://events.anr.msu.edu/NorthFarmWorkshops15/>
Smart Vegetable Gardening 101 Webinar Series
April thru May 2015
Date: April 13, 2015 - May 18, 2015
Time: 6 - 7 p.m.
Location: Webinar
Contact: Rebecca Krans, 906-875-0606 or [log in to unmask] or Hal Hudson, 989-672-3870 or [log in to unmask]
The Smart Vegetable Gardening 101 Webinar series is an online class for introductory and beginning vegetable gardeners. Six one-hour online classes will take place on Mondays beginning April 13 and going through May 18. All aspects of vegetable gardening will be covered: getting started, planning and preparing, plant selection, types of gardening, garden maintenance, soil preparation, starting with and maintaining healthy plants, and various gardening activities. Questions and discussion will take place through the webinar ‘chat’ function. Supporting written materials will be available for download during and after the webinar. Participants will receive the webinar URL after their registration and payment is received. A recording of the webinar will be made available to registered participants who are unable to attend the live sessions.
Fee: $30 until April 12, $40 after April 12
A cancellation fee of $30 will be applied if you cancel after April 13.
An optional CD is available for an additional $37 (includes postage/handling & sales tax). This will include all class materials except the live recordings.
Register<http://events.anr.msu.edu/SmartVeggies101Session2/>
Southwest Michigan Irrigation Network
Date: April 15, 2015
Time: Continuous
Location: 1791 Hillandale Road: Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Contact: Ron Goldy, [log in to unmask], 269-944-1477 ext. 207
Sign up for irrigation scheduling service by April 15, 2015. Service to Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. Fees based on crop season length from $85 to $160/site.
Download irrigation flyer for additional information.<http://msue.anr.msu.edu/uploads/219/65759/2015_IRRIGATION_FLYER.pdf>
2015 Great Lakes Hop and Barley Conference
Date: April 10, 2015 - April 11, 2015
Location: L.V. Eberhard Conference Center, Grand Valley State University, 301 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Contact: Rob Sirrine, [log in to unmask]
The conference will feature separate basic and advanced sessions for hop growers as well as a barley session and malting tour and is designed for both growers and brewers. Several prominent speakers from around the country will be on hand to discuss: market outlook, horticultural practices, pest and disease control, harvest and post-harvest practices, nutrient management, and much more.
There will also be a brewer/grower networking session that focuses on hop quality. The session will provide growers with a better idea of quality requirements and help align the supply of Michigan grown hops with brewer needs.
The conference will feature three tracks: Hop Introductory Track, Hop Advanced Track, and Barley and Malt Track.
For registration and sponsorship information, please visit: http://events.anr.msu.edu/hopandbarley15/
The North Farm Extension Workshop Series - Transplant Production
Date: May 2, 2015
Time: 2 - 4 p.m.
Location: The North Farm, E3774 University Drive, Chatham, MI
Contact: [log in to unmask] or 906-439-5059
All workshops start at 2 p.m. EST and are located at The North Farm, E3774 University Drive, Chatham, MI - 1 mile north of the Village of Chatham on the Rock River Road
Participants have two registration options:
1. Individuals - select the “Participant Registration” option and select workshops you plan to attend. Workshops are $10/class/person or you can register for the entire series for $50/person.
2. Farms or Groups - select the “Farm or Group Registration” option and select the workshops your group plans to attend. Workshops are $15/class/group or you can register your group for the entire series for $75/group.
Workshop options include:
Transplant Production – May 2, 2 hours
Healthy seedlings lead to healthy crops. Come learn some techniques and tricks for growing healthy transplants. We will discuss lighting considerations; temperature requirements, watering techniques, and hoophouse transplant production. We will also demonstrate different styles of transplant production, including open flats, plug trays, and soil blocks.
**Each workshop also qualifies for education hours for MSUE Master Gardeners!**
To register click here<http://events.anr.msu.edu/NorthFarmWorkshops15/>
Center for Regional Food Systems hosts Livestock Work Group Open Meeting
Please hold the date!
We are excited to announce the next MSU Livestock Work Group Stakeholder meeting will be held on Thursday, April 16th from 8:30am-1:00pm at GreenStone Farm Credit Services, in East Lansing, MI.
This meeting is free and open to all Michigan meat value chain stakeholders, including farmers, meat processors, distributors, and food service professionals. Besides MSU Livestock Work Group updates, a panel discussion, and time for networking, the meeting will feature guest speaker Chef Brian Polcyn (of Forest Grill and Schoolcraft College), who will discuss marketing Michigan meat and ways of adding value to the whole animal. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Additional details, agenda, map, and RSVP to come. Please share this invite with anyone interested in Michigan meat.
Hope you can join us April 16th!
Noel, Jude, and Dani
Noel Bielaczyc
Food Hub & Meat Supply Chain Specialist
Center For Regional Food Systems | Michigan State University
480 Wilson Road, Room 309 | Natural Resources Building | East Lansing, MI 48824
(p) 517.432.0093 (f) 517.353.3834
How to Start a Cottage Food Law Business in Michigan
Date: April 23, 2015
Time: 3 - 5 p.m.
Location: Berrien County MSU Extension, 1737 Hillandale Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Contact: 231-724-6694, [log in to unmask]
Two-hour sessions focuses the Cottage Food Law guidelines, food safety, allowed foods for sale, packaging, labeling, processing procedures, finance and marketing. Q & A follows.
This session does not address foods that require commercial licensing such as salsa, pickles, barbeque sauces, or anything containing meat or dairy.
To register click here<http://events.anr.msu.edu/CFLBerrien2015/>
Job Opportunities
Beginning Farmer Education Program Manager
Job Posting
The MSU Student Organic Farm (SOF) is hiring a Beginning Farmer Education Program Manager. The position is three-quarters time (30 hrs/wk) and is part of a recently awarded USDA grant titled “Michigan’s Emerging Farmers – Strategies and Tools to Enhance Success,” a collaboration among the MSU SOF, Michigan Food and Farming Systems (MIFFS), and the MSU Center for Regional Food Systems (CRFS). The Beginning Farmer Education Program Manager will work closely with and report to the SOF Organic Farmer Training Program Director and work closely with the MIFFS and CRFS members of the project team. This position has secure funding through November 2017.
The overall goal of the grant is to increase new farm success in Michigan by developing networks and resources for land and capital access while providing increased access to education and training. Project-supported resources will be adapted as appropriate for specific groups of beginning farmers with differing needs and perspectives in an attempt to help all of them move toward business viability.
The goal for the SOF-led portion of the grant is to increase access to beginning farmer training across Michigan through co-development and delivery of hands-on workshops and educational materials. Project strategy encompasses three sites:
The MSU Student Organic Farm, with an eight year history of beginning farmer training and focus on generalized statewide beginning farmers;
Farmers on the Move, already established as a Hispanic farmer cooperative in need of training development in a variety of areas as well as site development; and
Women in Agriculture, a newly-developed site for women focused on cooperative farming.
The project focuses on developing site and people-appropriate training programs that both utilize the lessons learned in previous trainings in Michigan and ensure that they are useful and engaging for the particular audiences intended at the three sites.
Area of Work
This position will be the program manager for all trainings and workshops. This will include:
• Co-development of workshop topics, content, materials, and timing with representatives of project audiences.
• Workshop delivery
Coordination of workshop logistics including presenters, promotion, site, materials, and execution
Educational content delivery in collaboration with farmer co-presenters
Co-development (with project evaluator) and facilitation of workshop evaluations
• Advising and reviewing business plans required for Women in Ag and Farmers on the Move stipend recipients
• Development of educational tools and materials to help beginning farmers achieve economic viability and scale up production and sales as needed for use both in workshops and as standalone tools
• Administrative tasks as needed associated with the project
Special Requirements
• The successful applicant must be available for evening and weekend work in order to accommodate farmers’ schedules
• This position requires both a high level of autonomy and self-direction as well as an ability to collaborate and work with others. The project manager will work with the managers of the Land Access and the Capital Access components of the grant to provide input as necessary and to make resources related to land and capital available to participants in the training programs.
Qualifications
• Highly organized and a self-starter
• Strong written and oral communications skills (especially with project audiences)
• Digital media skills, including Microsoft Office suite, knowledge and use of social media sites, and an ability to navigate and update web content on the program’s web page
• Experience with vegetable production, preferably year-round in cold climates
• Teaching skills and experience
• Farm and farm business management experience
• Demonstrated success in program development and project management in a highly collaborative environment
Preferred
• Educational program management experience
• Knowledge of Michigan’s food and farming landscape and systems
• Experience with training and technical assistance for adults
• Grant project management experience
• Experience with audiences where English is a second language; cross-cultural experience similarly helpful
• Spanish speaker
• Commitment to leading the project for the entire duration of the grant
To Apply
To apply, send resume and cover letter to [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>. Please put Beginning Farmer Education Program Manager in the e-mail subject line.
• The position will remain open until filled. Interviews will begin in April 2015.
• Ideal start date is May 2015. Occasional evening and weekend work will occur in order to accommodate farmers’ schedules
• Extension of the position beyond the grant may be possible based on availability of funding
• Expansion of the position to 40 hours per week with additional non-grant responsibilities may also become possible
• Salary Range: $18-21 per hour, commensurate with experience
• Benefits: Healthcare coverage
Former SAFS student Joel Clifton wanted to share this vegetable production opportunity - hiring now!
Morgan Composting Inc. is currently looking for a new, full-time farm manager to run our 8 acres of organic vegetables and 1 hoophouse.
We are hoping to expand our hoophouse area in the near future! Some experience in vegetable production/greenhouse management would be good. We are ready to hire ASAP so we don't lose out on the start of the growing season. To get an application, please call our office at (231) 734-2451 and ask for Danielle.
Thanks for you help!
Joel Clifton
Agronomist
Morgan Composting Inc.
(231) 734-2451
[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>
Agriculture Program Coordinator
· Agriculture and Forestry
· Washington, DC, USA
· Full Time
The National Wildlife Federation is seeking an Agriculture Program Coordinator to join our staff in DC. This is an entry level position that will provide administrative and programmatic support for all aspects NWF's Agriculture Program work, which includes wildlife-friendly agriculture, bioenergy, cover crops, and grasslands.
In this role you will:
• Take the lead in keeping our web page updated and in maintaining a blog on our work
• Assist in research on agriculture and bioenergy issues, develop fact sheets, white papers, and other educational materials
• Assist with media and communications, administer and moderate listservs, and participate in coalition meetings and activities.
• Help to organize and plan meetings and events, including taking a leading role in organizing the America's Grasslands Conference, a 250 person biennial conference about the conservation of grassland ecosystems
• Take a lead role in grant tracking and reporting, including helping to write grant reports and monitoring budgets.
• Depending on interest, there will also likely be opportunities for the Coordinator to build out areas of work on cover crops, grasslands, bioenergy, agriculture conservation policy, or other related issues.
Qualifications
• A four year degree in policy, natural resources, communications, or agriculture
• At least one year professional experience in policy, communications, or natural resources and a basic understanding of U.S. Agriculture and interest in wildlife conservation and sustainable agriculture
• Excellent oral and written communications skills, research skills, ability to translate complex information into publicly accessible forms
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team
• Strong organizational skills and ability to be a self-starter
The National Wildlife Federation is America's largest conservation organization, passionate about protecting wildlife for our children's future. NWF is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity.
Capay Valley Farm Shop (CVFS) is seeking an experienced manager
to assume operational responsibility for the management of our 3,000 square foot aggregation and distribution facility for local farms and ranches. The
Ope rations Manager (OM) will work closely with a dynamic team of employees to
improve core services and drive the organization’s next phase of growth.
CVFS offers a rare opportunity for families and institutions to buy 100%
local, seasonal food direct from more than 40 small and mid-scale family
farms. Located in Esparto, California, CVFS was established in 2007 to connect
Capay Valley producers with regional markets as closely as possible. We are a
for-profit, community-based social enterprise that offers services to our
clients who include consumers, business partners, and farmers.
Responsibilities
Operations Lead: Serve as operations lead, supervising Operations Assistant
Manager, Operations Associate(s), and Delivery Driver. Manage and print out
all paperwork needed for daily pack management. Ensure implementation of pack practices and procedures at daily pack-outs to ensure smooth running
operations. Communicate specific and general requirements to Operations Team.
Oversee inventory system and management of all products. Oversee
implementation of food safety plan, including scheduled cleaning, reporting,
and testing. Oversee scheduled maintenance of equipment and vehicles to ensure safe and essential operations.
Systems: The OM will need to quickly become proficient with the systems that
run the hub’s order fulfillment, inventory management, cleaning, equipment and
vehicle maintenance. OM is responsible for maintaining and updating documentation of core systems to facilitate staff training and continual
improvement.
Business Management: Responsible for operating profit & loss performance with
an emphasis on expense management.
Management Team: Participate in weekly Management Team meetings to coordinate manager implementation of weekly activities and strategic initiatives. Timely and effective communication with employees via phone, email, and in-person.
Qualifications
• Passionate and knowledgeable about local agriculture, food hubs, and
fresh food distribution.
• This is a Customer Service business. The position needs a people
person to effectively manage staff, work with clients, and build connections
to farmers and local food system partners.
• Operations Manager needs to be entrepreneurial, anticipating challenges and opportunities, and solution-oriented in addressing those opportunities and challenges proactively.
• The position requires someone who is detail-oriented, good with logistics and scheduling; and numbers-oriented, capable of managing based on financial performance.
• While the Operations Manager is not responsible for direct sales,
CVFS’ success nonetheless requires the OM to be an effective representative—
eager to articulate the value of the services offered and committed to exceeding client’s expectations.
• While the job entails many administrative functions, this is not a
desk job: the Operations Manager needs to be hardworking, able to get to work
at 8:00am; work weekend shifts; and pitch in to help with pack, move pallets,
or drive the delivery truck when the need arises.
• 3 years of experience as a manager in the food industry.
• Experience managing warehouse operations.
• Working familiarity with computers and software including Office
applications and cloud-based computing.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and mobility to ascend and descend the rear-
end of a box truck.
• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods (>20 hrs/wk).
• Ability to work outdoors in warm and cold weather.
Compensation and Benefits
• Compensation is dependent on experience. Expected salary range is
$27,040-37,440.
• Paid vacation leave and other benefits apply based on full-time
employment. Benefits include complimentary produce and discounts on specialty
products.
Capay Valley Farm Shop’s policy is that all persons are entitled to equal
employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, gender, marital
status, or sexual orientation. We are committed to recruiting, training,
developing, and promoting employees on the basis of individual qualifications,
competence, and merit. More policies are detailed in the company’s personnel
policy.
To Apply
Please send a cover letter, resume, and references to
<[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>>.
Position open until filled. Posted March 24, 2015.
This is a unique position to live on a working farm that is also a transitional home
We have a 50 person vegetable CSA, run a farmers market, have a pigs, sheep, turkeys and chickens as well as a wood shop and haying operation. You would have the chance to learn about any of these while forwarding the mission and day to day operations of Dismas House.
Dismas House Fellowship
Dismas House of Massachusetts, Inc., seeks a qualified Fellow to help coordinate resident and program activities at Dismas House, a transitional housing program for homeless, former prisoners located in both Worcester and Oakham, MA. Ideal candidates will have a commitment to issues of social justice, experience in non-profit milieu, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. Hours may include weekday and weekend evening hours.
The Dismas House Fellow is presented with the opportunity to live in solidarity with the residents of Dismas House. Duties for the position may include, but are not limited to the following:
Assist Executive Director with grant writing responsibilities including researching new funding sources, helping renew existing grants, and eventually writing original funding requests.
Transport residents to doctor appointments, job interviews and NA/AA meetings in the community, and help to plan, coordinate and implement house activities.
Assist Dismas staff attorney with the operation of the BAR None Program. Help coordinate with legal clients, and assist legal clients with filling out and filing paperwork.
Help coordinate and participate in all farm and vocational activities at the Dismas Family Farm.
Perform public speaking and outreach efforts to increase agency visibility, issue awareness and volunteer bases.
Coordinate weekly grocery shopping and supply maintenance at the Dismas Family Farm.
Work with Executive Director around volunteer coordination and student and international volunteer residency in the program. Cultivate relationships with volunteers. Schedule volunteers and coordinate schedule of volunteer cooks.
Support, welcome and orient volunteers providing outside services, including, but not limited to, meal provision, education and support groups and special project assistance.
Work closely with the Farm Program Director to assist with case management efforts. Assist residents with assignments, resumes, health benefit applications, and job search efforts.
Provide needed fundraising support to the Executive Director to ensure success of fundraising efforts.
Work closely with the Executive Director to fulfill agency mission, develop new projects and capitalize on current opportunities for growth.
This fellowship runs the course of one calendar year (ideally July 1 – June 30). The Fellow will receive a $225/week stipend. Room, board, and health and dental insurance are also included.
Dismas House does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, sexual orientation, nationality, religious conviction or disability.
Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>.
Position Announcement: Director & Professor, North Central Regional Center for Rural Development
The North Central Regional Center for Rural Development (NCRCRD) engages partner institutions in a twelve state region to strengthen research and outreach programs related to enhancing conditions in rural communities. The Center is funded via a partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the twelve 1862 land grant universities of the North Central region. In addition, the Center also serves the region’s two 1890 (historically black) and nineteen 1994 (tribal) land grant colleges and universities. The Center partners with a dynamic and exciting set of top quality institutions to address a diverse set of contemporary problems. With the quality of its human resource investments in rural development-related disciplines, the North Central region is a standard-bearer for rural development program innovation nationally. Priority issues for the Center in the near term include rural dimensions of innovation diffusion, sustainable communities, entrepreneurial development, and leadership development. The Center is located on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan, USA. More information about the Center, its mission, and its programs can be found at: http://ncrcrd.msu.edu<http://ncrcrd.msu.edu/>. The Center is seeking applicants for the position of Director of the Center (and Professor). Information regarding this position announcement can be found in the attached position description and applicants may apply online via the MSU Employment System at http://jobs.msu.edu<http://jobs.msu.edu/> (Posting Number 1044). Review of applications will begin on April 21, 2015, and continue until the successful candidate is identified. Michigan State University is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Assistant Manager at the Farmer’s Market at Harvard University
Job Description
The assistant market manager is responsible for the daily operations of the Farmers’ Market at Harvard (outlined below). The assistant farmers’ market manager will report to, and work closely with, the Food Literacy Project Coordinator who oversees the market and can sub-in with advanced notice. April and May the time commitment is about 3-5 hrs/week and
June through November it is about 8-10 hrs/week, mostly on Tuesdays (applicant must be available on Tuesdays June through November). June-August there will be two interns who will help the assistant manager on market days.
GENERAL MARKET SUPPORT (April through November)
Develops and maintains good working relationships with farmers and vendors, consumers, community members, and HUDS (dining services) staff.
Assists vendors, community representatives, and consumers by providing market-related information, conflict resolution, and general aid as appropriate.
Communicates regularly with HUDS staff.
Works with the SNAP Match Coalition to double food stamp dollars at the market.
Coordinates cooking demonstrations, educational programming, and other special events that may be planned for the market.
MARKET LOGISTICS (June through November, 10:30am-6:30pm)
June through November arrives at market 1 - 1.5 hours before opening to coordinate market set-up and stays at market until for 30 minutes after closing, or until vendors pack up.
Ensures safety and cleanliness of the site before, during, and at the conclusion of each market.
Maintains and transmits the daily sales records required by HUHDS to the office coordinator on a weekly basis.
Assistant manager assist vendors by providing limited set-up help and brief personal breaks and by assisting vendors with sales during especially busy times.
Staffs the market manager’s tent. Operation of the market manager’s tent
Displaying and distributing educational materials
Facilitating EBT/food stamp transactions and keeping appropriate records
Facilitating sales of t-shirts and reusable bags
Record any grievances/comments from customers or vendors.
Edits and sends a weekly newsletter highlighting local produce and vendor products.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have an interest in local agriculture, food, community, and/or local economies. S/he must be reliable, friendly, and self-motivated.
This is a part-time, hourly position and requires on-site time at the market for approximately 7-8 hours on market days (Tuesdays).
Compensation $14-15/hr
To Apply
Please send a cover letter and resume to [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> by March 30th, 2015
Margiana Petersen-Rockney
Food Literacy Project Coordinator
617.495.8052 (office)
617.735.7714 (cell)
Barry Conservation District - Executive Director
The Barry Conservation District is seeking a dynamic Executive Director who will promote responsible natural resource and land use management in Barry County. This individual should have proven managerial skills, strong communication skills, excellent personal presence, and the ability to develop and administer budgets. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and is responsible for the District’s consistent achievement of its mission and financial goals, as well as the day to day operations of the District. Qualified applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in natural resources, business, education or a related field, and must pass a background check. More information can be found on our website at www.barrycd.org<http://www.barrycd.org/>. The Barry Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Description<http://macd.org/assets/Job%20Postings/2015-Barry_CD_Job_Description-Executive_Director.pdf>
Application Deadline: March 27, 2015. Send resume, cover letter and references to Shawn Kelly, Barry Conservation Disrict, 1611 S. Hanover, Suite 105, Hastings, MI 49058, or via email to [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>. or by fax: 855-701-4371<file://localhost/tel/855-701-4371>. Questions may be directed to Shawn via email or phone: 269-948-8056<file://localhost/tel/269-948-8056>
Lori Phalen
Executive Director
Michigan Association of Conservation Districts
[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>
c) 517-930-2975<file://localhost/tel/517-930-2975>
www.macd.org<http://www.macd.org/>
Our friends at Forgotten Harvest asked us to share this information. Please share with your networks too.
Forgotten Harvest is seeking a “Volunteer Coordinator / Farm Hand” and a “Seasonal Farm Assistant.” Please see link below for more information on these positions.
http://www.forgottenharvest.org/careers/
Interested candidates please provide resumes to: [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>
Thank you and have a great weekend!
Rich, Noel and Marty
Monroe Family Organics is looking to bring together our field crew for our 2015 season. Our small farm is located in Alma, MI and is owned by Fred and Michele Monroe. This is a diverse, certified organic farm that produces fruits, pastured hogs, vegetables, and herbs. Our 200+ member CSA, restaurants, coops, local distributors, stores, and occasional farmers’ markets are the diverse customer base we serve. The high standard of quality is what has allowed us to maintain and grow a strong and committed group of local customers. Starting with a borrowed tractor and a grass field we have grown fast over the last 5 years to include multiple high tunnels, greenhouses, and many new pieces of equipment.
The crew members we are looking for will have at least some significant level of experience on a vegetable farm or have well proven success from other jobs that have a fast paced environment. Ability to work in a variety of sometimes adverse weather extremes and to meet the seasonal time commitments at the farm is a must. Ability to work with others well and bring a positive attitude to the team is expected as we desire to make working on the farm a positive experience for everyone. Crew members must be able to lift at least 50lbs and not be a regular smoker due to the risks from Tobacco Mosaic Virus. A good crew member will be able to get the work done quickly and with excellence. Tasks may include washing produce, hoeing, harvesting, transplanting, seeding, cultivating, watering, moving irrigation, laying plastic mulch, greenhouse maintenance, bagging veggies, pruning, staking, and many other farm related tasks. Each crew member should have the ability to take on lower level management responsibilities after training. There are many opportunities for crew members to attain management skills as well as take responsibility for areas of the farm that are of particular interest.
Compensation starts at $1500 per month but can be well over $2000 for the right individual. Crew members can use, free of charge, most of our 100+ varieties of farm produce for personal use and are encouraged to do so. We do not have on farm housing but can assist in finding some place close to the farm. Housing will ultimately be the financial responsibility of the crew member.
If interested contact Fred Monroe at (517) 449-9886 or email [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>. You can also check our website at mforganics.com. Thanks for your interest!
Visiting Research Specialist in Agriculture Crop Sciences College of Agricultural
Consumer and Environmental Sciences University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign Illinois is a world leader in research, teaching, and public engagement.
POSITION SUMMARY
Manage and provide leadership for the Sustainable Student Farm
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• _Coordinate all aspects of operating a diversified vegetable farm using sustainable production techniques. This includes: developing and carrying out cropping plans planting and harvesting schedules; developing and carrying out plans for fertility, pest management, and irrigation; marketing produce; and maintaining and summarizing records of expenses, yields, and sales.
• _Collaborate with faculty and staff to establish and maintain research and demonstration plots and collect and analyze data on sustainable production practices designed to increase produce yield and/or quality.
• _Participate in teaching a summer field course on sustainable vegetable production or local food production. Collaborate with faculty to provide field laboratory opportunities for HORT 100, 105, 205, and 360 (and other courses as appropriate).
• _Contribute to extension and other outreach programs by presenting information and answering questions for beginning farmer training programs, vegetable production programs, and campus and community open houses and field days.
• _Communicate and work well with the farm coordinator and others whose programs overlap with those of the SSF.
• _Train and supervise farm employees and volunteers who work at the SSF. Duties include demonstrating work practices, assigning tasks and schedules, monitoring hours worked and performance.
• _Prepare annual reports that summarize activities, expenses, production, and sales, as well as activities and outputs in teaching, research, and outreach.
• _Must possess or be able to obtain a driver’s license and research pesticide applicators license.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required qualifications: a B.S. in horticulture or relevant field; one year vegetable production experience and basic knowledge of soils, soil fertility, vegetable production practices, irrigation, equipment operation, and integrated pest management.
Preferred qualifications: MS in Horticulture or relevant field; experience in transplant production, planning and carrying out succession plantings, harvest and post-harvest handling of perishable vegetables, produce storage and delivery, and marketing.
SALARY
Salary will be commensurate with training and experience.
APPOINTMENT STATUS
This is a 12-month, 100% visiting academic professional position. This position may become non-visiting at a later date.
PROPOSED STARTING DATE
This position is available as soon as possible after the closing date. Application materials may be reviewed prior to the close date and will continue until the most qualified candidate is identified.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Please create your candidate profile at http://jobs.illinois.edu and upload a cover letter indicating your qualifications, resume and contact information for three references by March 22, 2015. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Individuals with diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
For further information regarding application procedures, you may contact Linda Kemplin, [log in to unmask] You may also visit http://cropsci.illinois.edu for additional information.
Illinois is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. Illinois welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity (www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu).
Grants Available
Rural energy for America program
Funding available for agricultural producers to install renewable energy systems.
Posted on March 20, 2015 by Rob Sirrine<http://msue.anr.msu.edu/experts/rob_sirrine>, Michigan State University Extension
If you are an agricultural producer with at least 50 percent of your gross income coming from agriculture or a small rural business, then you may be eligible to participate in the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)<http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency/mi>. REAP offers grant funding and loan guarantees to qualifying operations and businesses to purchase, install, or construct renewable energy systems. Examples of renewable energy projects include but aren’t limited to: biomass, geothermal, wind, and solar. Funds may be also used for energy efficiency improvements.
Multiple funding options are available. Grants can cover up to 25 percent of total project costs, while loan guarantees can be used for 75 percent of total project costs. A combination of the two cannot exceed 75 percent of the total cost of your project. Importantly, recipients may be eligible for federal tax credits as well. The current federal tax credit is 30 percent. If you were to install a $50,000 solar array, you could receive a $15,000 tax credit depending upon your specific situation. As a reminder, it is always best to consult a tax professional for clarification on tax issues prior to beginning any project.
Applications for REAP are accepted on a rolling basis year round and funds are distributed to eligible applicants when funds are appropriated annually. Applications can be submitted to your local USDA Rural Development office<http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?service=page/CountyMap&state=MI1&stateName=Lower%20Michigan&stateCode=26>. Prior to filling out an application, interested applicants should contact Michigan’s Rural Development State Rural Energy Coordinator<http://www.rd.usda.gov/files/RBS_StateEnergyCoordinators.pdf> to discuss eligibility criteria.
For more information please visit USDA REAP<file://localhost/C:/Users/herschni/Downloads/Farm%20Energy.org>, or visit your local Michigan State University Extension<http://msue.anr.msu.edu/> office for answers to frequently asked questions about this program.
The 2015 North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education
Program (NCR-SARE) Graduate Student Grant Call for Proposals is now available online
at http://www.northcentralsare.org/Grants/Our-Grant-Programs/Graduate-Student-
Grant-Program
Graduate students enrolled at colleges or universities in the North Central region can submit proposals for up to $10,000 to fund sustainable agriculture projects that will be part of their educational programs. NCR-SARE expects to fund about 15 projects in the twelve-state North Central Region.
NCR-SARE will be accepting online submissions for the Graduate Student Grant
Program using our online submission system. More information about the online
submission system can be found in the call for proposals.
Previously funded proposals have contributed to farmer or rancher profitability,
environmental quality, and the enhancement of the quality of life of farmers or ranchers, their communities, and society as a whole. NCR-SARE strongly encourages students to involve farmers and ranchers in their Graduate Student Grant projects.
Proposals must be completely submitted to the online system by 4 p.m. CST, May 15, 2015. Potential applicants should note the deadline, and plan accordingly, since it may
coincide with finals.
Potential applicants can contact Beth Nelson with questions at [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> or
612-626-4436.
Vicki Morrone
Organic farming specialist
Center For Regional Food Systems at MSU
480 Wilson Rd Rm 303
East Lansing, MI 48824
517-353-3542/517-282-3557 (cell)
Www.MichiganOrganic.Msu.edu
If you would like to access previous postings to the Mich-Organic listserv you can copy and paste the following URL into your browser address bar
http://list.msu.edu/archives/mich-organic.html
