Great New Book on Farming and Country Living:

I highly recommend this new publication reviewed here by Jamee Larson. It can be purchased from Smashwords at https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/9996. This is not an ad. I actually commissioned Jamee to do this review because I want people to read the book. It’s cheap, and I think many of you will really enjoy it!

Elaine Babcock believes in living every moment to the fullest and appreciating the world around her. As a writer, her goal is to “paint word pictures of the way things used to be and the way I see things now.” Country-fied: Life in the Dakotas is a collection of essays that serves as a textual portfolio for those observations. Babcock takes readers on a journey from rummage sales and church potlucks, to funerals and hunting trips. Interspersed in between are essays that display her respect and admiration for the Dakotas. In “Living Country Style” she writes, “Sometimes when the weather was gentle that prairie called me. On the Dakota prairies I learned to listen to nature, to God, and to myself.” Her prose is full of rich sensory details that enable her to paint her word pictures.

Many of Babcock’s essays deal with personal issues, often written with a mix of raw emotional honesty and self-deprecating humor. Readers will appreciate her candor and relate to her life experiences. Part advice column, part personal essay, the variety of subjects contained within this collection has something for everyone. Babcock has managed to take the personal and make it universal, which is the very thing that makes this collection so relatable.

June 21, Thursday from 2:00-3:30 (EST), 2012

Are you a bit nervous about the pests that may attack your crops this year? Do you have your scouting plan ready? Do you know how to calculate degree days for the key pests in your field?

If these questions have you thinking then perhaps you should join us for a webinar on understanding and setting up an IPM program for your farm!!  All smart farmers  scout their fields to be ready for pest occurrences, but especially organic farmers who use multiple tools to manage pests. Having a good idea if and when insects will attack is the first step to smart pest management.

If you cannot attend the live presentation the webinar will be available for later viewing on www.MichiganOrganic.msu.edu website. To join the meeting on June 21 at 2 pm EST Click on this link: http://connect.msu.edu/msuorganicipm/

The North Central SARE program is sponsoring this webinar that will be presented by Beth Bishop, Michigan State University’s Enviro Weather Coordinator how to set up a sound Integrated Pest Management program for your farm.

You will also have the opportunity to learn how to use online tools to assist you predict pest outbreaks as well as give you a heads up of possible pest outbreaks.

This year will likely be challenging to all farmers in the Midwest, given the mild winter and early heat spell, triggering perennials to bloom too early and allowing overwintering insects and disease to survive in the soil. Beth Bishop, Enviro-Weather coordinator will share how to use this great online tool to predict insect flights as well as steps toward a sound Integrated Pest Management program for your farm.

IPM model plans will be shared for three model crops; corn, apples and tomatoes. If you have any questions please contact Vicki at sorrone@msu.edu.

In a letter to the House Committee on Agriculture, Congressman John Garamendi (CA-10), Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11), Congresswoman Lois Capps (CA-23), and 29 of their colleagues in the California Congressional Delegation detailed their top priorities in the upcoming 2012 Farm Bill, which Congress is expected to consider later this year.  The 2012 Farm Bill, which sets food and farm policy for the nation, provides multi-year funding for a wide range of agriculture programs.

“As a rancher and a pear farmer, I know the unique challenges that California’s agriculture community faces,” said Garamendi. “The Farm Bill offers the opportunity for California’s farm businesses to overcome these hurdles through advanced research, pest management, and marketing assistance programs. The bill can also connect disadvantaged families, especially children, with the food they need to lead healthy, productive lives. I join my colleagues in urging the Committee to pass a fiscally responsible Farm Bill that helps America’s families and farmers to Make It In America and grow it in America.”

“California produces the best specialty crops that are consumed in this country such as asparagus and almonds.  This year’s Farm Bill must level the playing field and grant more opportunities to the productive farmers from California.  We grow some of the best grapes in the world and as a result, have a robust and thriving wine industry.  Our family farmers stand to play a deciding role in our economic growth and we must do everything we can to help them flourish,” said McNerney.

“The 2012 Farm Bill is one of the biggest items on the agenda for Congress this year,” said Capps.  “We know the legislation will have a significant impact on California’s growers and ranchers, and that’s why it was so important for our delegation to express its priorities to the Agriculture Committee.  We want to ensure that our agriculture industry remains a pillar of the U.S. economy.”

In the letter, the California lawmakers highlighted the importance of maintaining support for specialty crops, agricultural research, pest detection, nutrition, and conservation – all of which are supported by the California Farm Bureau.  California is the most productive agricultural region in the world, contributing $39 billion per year to California’s economy and supporting over 1 million jobs.  California is ranked number one nationwide in exports for “specialty crops” such as tree nuts, fruits, and vegetables, and the state is ranked number two in dairy production nationwide. Prior to reforms enacted in the 2008 Farm Bill, only large growers who produce commodity crops like corn and wheat were eligible to receive federal support.

The lawmakers also expressed their strong support for preserving investments in nutrition programs for low income Californians, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Text of the letter is included below. (Click the Read More Button)

Dear Chairman Lucas and Ranking Member Peterson,

As representatives of California’s urban, suburban, rural and agricultural communities, we write in support of an economically responsible 2012 Farm Bill that maintains and strengthens our state’s economy, public health, and environment while providing stability for our farmers and ranchers.

California is the most productive agricultural region in the world, and therefore has a major stake in the outcome of the 2012 Farm Bill.  California’s annual $39 billion agriculture sector consists of approximately 80,000 farms and ranches, and supports more than 1 million related jobs.  California farmers and ranchers produce more than 400 different agricultural commodities including fruits, vegetables, grains, cotton, tree nuts, horticulture, meats and livestock, and many of the world’s finest wines.  California is also the nation’s leading dairy state, housing 1.75 million cattle that produce milk products worth $5.9 billion.

Despite these numbers, a startling 19 percent of California households reported struggling with food hardship in 2011.  In 2010, nearly 1 in every 4 California children lived in poverty, the majority from families where one or more parents worked full-time.  A lack of access to the affordable, nutritious food grown throughout the state makes our citizens vulnerable to a lifetime of health issues and systemic poverty.

A sound Farm Bill will help California farmers, ranchers and citizens find new ways to remain economically viable, strengthen connections between rural and urban communities and markets, protect crops from pests and diseases, improve water and air quality, enhance opportunities for farmers, and provide healthy food for a growing population.  Additionally, as traditional commodity supports are revamped, the Farm Bill should take into account the unique, high value nature of California’s commodity crops such as rice and cotton, and should strengthen support programs that reward farmers for providing important ecological services.

In recent years, Congress has recognized the importance of California’s agricultural production to the U.S. health and economy, and made significant strides to strengthen programs that are vital to our state.  We respectfully urge you to support the following programs as you write the 2012 Farm Bill:

Specialty Crops

California’s specialty crop industry accounts for about half of all domestic farmgate crop value but has received relatively little funding in Farm Bill programs. The 2008 Farm Bill included new funding for Specialty Crop Block Grants, the Specialty Crop Research Initiative, assistance for organic production, local food marketing and promotion, beginning and disadvantaged farmers, and other key programs that help to strengthen this sector.  We request that support for these programs be maintained, and that funding be increased to reflect their effectiveness in creating new jobs, stimulating local economies, improving public health, and increasing access to healthy foods for children, seniors, and low-income citizens.

Research

The next Farm Bill should support a strong research title by preserving mandatory research programs, particularly the Specialty Crop Research Initiative, and ensuring that more research is directed to enhancing the consumption of fruits and vegetables, mixed crop and livestock agriculture, and local and sustainable farming systems. The Farm Bill should also ensure that Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) funding is available to a wide array of entities, including non-profit research organizations and schools and universities, such as the University of California and California State University.  These partnerships bring agricultural and natural resource science from the laboratory into the field, and work with industry to enhance agricultural markets, address environmental concerns, protect plant heath, and enhance food safety.

Pest Detection

California is particularly vulnerable to diseases and pests due to its size and numerous points-of-entry.  Strong support for all pest detection programs, including the Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service Plant Pest and Disease Program (Sec. 10201), should be maintained and funding should be increased.  These types of programs maintain the highest level of detection and eradication of pests and diseases and can achieve significant cost savings through rapid response and eradication.

Nutrition

With nearly four million participants, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides critical support to low-income Californians.  The economy grows by $1.73 for every $1.00 invested in SNAP.  The 2012 Farm Bill must provide full funding for SNAP, and maintain SNAP’s current structure, eligibility requirements, and benefit levels.  In addition, the Farm Bill should also support the Hunger-Free Communities Program that will provide incentives for SNAP beneficiaries to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets.  The next Farm Bill should also provide full funding for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP), the Community Food Projects Grant Program, SNAP education and Nutrition Research, education, and extension programs.

Conservation Programs

Conservation programs, including the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), Agricultural Water Enhancement Program (AWEP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP), Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP), Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP), and Grasslands Reserve Program (GRP), have been critical to helping farmers, ranchers, and landowners

improve agricultural production, while enhancing air and water quality, conserving soil and water resources, and maintaining wildlife habitat and land conservation as compatible goals.  Each year, 66 percent, or more than 4,000 farmers applying for conservation cost-share are turned away due to lack of funding.  Therefore, we ask that any reorganization or consolidation of these programs maintain and improve the availability of resources to all stakeholders and that they be targeted to states like California that face pressing environmental challenges.

We look forward to working with you to pass a fiscally responsible Farm Bill that supports specialty crops, organic, local and regional food systems, agricultural research, pest detection programs, nutrition programs and conservation.  Maintaining these objectives will encourage economic growth, create jobs, benefit consumers, and ensure that California’s agriculture industry remains a pillar of the U.S. economy.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Bruce Nelson today reminded producers that enrollment for the 2012 Direct and Counter-Cyclical Program (DCP) and the Average Crop Revenue Election Program (ACRE) ends on June 1, 2012.

“We want producers to know that DCP and ACRE are still available for enrollment,” said Nelson. “Producers who want to participate in DCP or ACRE must enroll their eligible farms. We encourage them to take the time to sign up before the deadline. Electronic DCP (eDCP) is a great option for enrolling during this busy planting season.”

Producers who choose to participate in either the revenue-based ACRE safety net or the price-based DCP safety net must enroll their farms each year. All owners and operators who will share in the DCP or ACRE payments on the farm must sign up by June 1. Since 2009, producers have had the option to participate in DCP or ACRE. A producer who initially chose to remain in DCP has an option to switch to ACRE during the current enrollment period; however, producers who chose to enroll in ACRE cannot switch back to DCP.

Find out all about it by clicking the READ MORE button.

Producers can make use of the electronic DCP (eDCP) automated website to sign up, or they can visit a nearby FSA county office to complete their 2012 DCP or ACRE enrollment form. eDCP saves time, reduces paperwork and speeds up contract processing. It is available to all producers who are eligible to participate in the DCP and ACRE programs and can be accessed at www.fsa.usda.gov/dcp. To access the service, producers must have an active USDA eAuthentication Level 2 account, which requires completing an online registration form at www.eauth.egov.usda.gov followed by a visit to the local USDA Service Center for identity verification.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Stop 9410, Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call toll-free at (866) 632-9992 (English) or (800) 877-8339 (TDD) or (866) 377-8642 (English Federal-relay) or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish Federal-relay).

Meals included $1200, Bring a friend and save $100 each! Information/Registration contact@homebiome.com. For more information about the course www.homebiome.com

Join a group gathering for the first ever Permaculture Design Course to be held in Ellenville, NY.  A scenic 2 hour drive from NYC with bus service from Port Authority. They’ve been teaching PDC’s in the city for 5 years now and just finished their 11th course.

Get additional program and contact info by clicking “read more” ->

They have many things planned for this class one of which will be a tour and Analysis & Assessment exercise for Majestic Farm in Sullivan County. They will have the class break up into groups to do the Analysis & Assessment and then prepare a final design presentation. This will be an excellent way for you to understand the A&A process before you embark on your final design project. Check out their website for a more thorough the link above.

They have just enlisted the multi-dimensional talents of Courtney Novak who will be leading Yoga classes, for all who desire to participate, on our meadow classroom’s big outdoor deck overlooking the hills. She is also going to be sharing some of her wisdom and talents in the kitchen and brews a crazy good fresh dandelion coffee. Yum!

Lisa DePiano has been teaching with us for a few years now and will be joining us for this course. Lisa is a certified Permaculture designer and co-founder of the Montview Neighborhood Farm, a human-powered farm and edible forest garden in the Connecticut River Valley. She has a Master’s degree in Regional Planning from the University of Massachusetts and likes to ride with the worker owned Pedal People in Northampton, MA.

Adriana Magaña will be cooking up some amazing food to nourish you inside and out: All organic and local produce from our garden or nearby, mostly vegetarian, soaked and sprouted beans and grains, my infamous sourdough bread, bone broths and soups, seaweeds, wild edibles, some meats and fish, pastured raw dairy, fermented foods, home brewed kombucha, fresh herbal teas and more. I will also be teaching about herbalism, botany, food & healing, plant and herb i.d. and filling in the gaps.

Andrew Faust is one of the premier permaculture designers in the country with decades of experience. Lately he has been interweaving his teachings with holistic healing modalities through collaboration with Golden Drum, City Life Wellness and the Healing Salons. Together they are actively accelerating the evolution of the expansive inclusive consciousness in the life matrix of all humanity.

For more Information or to Register email contact@homebiome.com

National Farmers Union (NFU) and a coalition of agricultural, conservation, environmental, energy, forestry, hunger, and rural stakeholders sent a letter to Senate leadership today urging them to bring the Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2012 to the Senate floor as soon as possible. NFU led the effort, which was supported by more than 125 organizations.

“This is one piece of legislation upon which all Americans depend, urban as well as rural,” stated the letter. “With limited time remaining before the expiration of current program authorities, time is of the essence.”

The Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2012 passed the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry on April 26 by a 16-5 vote. The broad range of the 125 cosigners emphasizes the expansive reach and impact of the farm bill.

“This strongly bipartisan bill ensures that agriculture does its part to reduce the deficit, cutting spending by $23 billion, while still maintaining a safety net that family farmers and ranchers need,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “Some farm bill programs have already expired, and the rest expire on Sept. 30. It is critical to pass a farm bill as soon as possible so that Americans have the agriculture, conservation, environmental, forestry, hunger, and rural development programs that they need. While many of us will continue to work for improvements in the bill, we all agree that we need a farm bill this year.”

Hudson Valley New York Food Lovers Friends Of The Farmer Festival, Two Events:

1) Hootenanny! Friday, July 27^th 2012, 6pm till 11pm: This is a kickoff benefit for the CAMPFARMON!  Scholarship Fund and widely considered one of the best summer parties in the Hudson Valley. Join us for a sunset feast and dance party on the deck of the Copake Country Club, overlooking the Catskills and Copake Lake while the mists gather and the tents are erected for the Festival on the rolling fairways below. More info here

2) Friends Of The Farmer Festival Saturday, July 28^th 2012, 11am till 8pm: Enjoy the best of the Hudson Valley locavore movement in an exquisite setting and in all its glory! So much to choose from, bring the family, lots of kids events and entertainment. Highlights are 5 Mile Fresh Grill, Taste of the Farm & Locavore Village, Future of Farming Forum, It’s 5O’Clock Somewhere! & Local Libations Tent, Big Willy’s Fishing Camp & Fly Tying Table, Farm & Community Art Table, Tractor Parades, Farm Animals, Sack Races, Celebrity Picnic Table Auction, Miracle Tomato Tasting Competition & Silent Art Auction, Great Stuff & Gourmet Picnic Basket Silent Auction and so much more…! More Info Here

All proceeds to benefit CAMPFARMON!  Scholarship Fund Young Farmer Innovative Training in partnership with Cornell University & Columbia Greene Community College. This year they are expecting 5,000 guests for the Festival, Whole Foods is their anchor sponsor and it will be filmed for a television pilot.

Contact: tessa edick tessa@friendsofthefarmer.com, 518.325.9437, or Gianni Ortiz gianni@Gianniortiz.com, 518.392.8545

The Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture (MISA) has released the second case study in an online series that provides beginning and transitioning farmers with a unique virtual resource. “These are comprehensive resources,” says Jane Grimsbo Jewett of MISA. “They both tell an engaging story and provide useful, practical, in-depth information that beginning farmers need to know.”

The new case study in the “Profiles in Sustainable Agriculture” series features Cindy Hale and Jeff Hall of Clover Valley Farms in Duluth, Minnesota.  They raise pastured poultry and hogs, produce herbs in a passive solar greenhouse, and use integrated pest management to grow heritage varieties of apples in new and restored orchards. The first case study featured Laura Frerichs and Adam Cullip of Loon Organics in Hutchinson, Minnesota.  They produce organic vegetables sold through farmers markets, Community Supported Agriculture, and
wholesale clients.

“After the success of our pilot case study on Loon Organics, a lot of readers requested that the next case study be about growing fruit or raising poultry,” says Sarah Stai of EcoSmith Consulting.  “We were excited when Cindy and Jeff expressed interest in being profiled for a case study.  Their operation allowed us to cover both fruit and poultry – among other enterprises – and explore how they are taking a highly integrated approach to small-scale farming.”  Stai manages the project in collaboration with MISA and with support of advisors from
University of Minnesota Extension, Renewing the Countryside, the Land Stewardship Project, and the Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota.

The “Profiles in Sustainable Agriculture” project uses graphics and narratives to integrate personal stories of profiled farmers with detailed information on their practices.  The case studies also include technical assistance via extensive tips and links to finance, production, and marketing resources.  A Clover Valley Farms reader summed up the approach this way: “I liked having the dry technical details wrapped into feel-good stories; it made the content more accessible, the delivery more palatable, and it fit my learning style.”

The case studies are located at http://sustagprofiles.info. Site visitors are encouraged to provide feedback on the project by taking a 5-minute survey that provides data for fundraising efforts and gives case study users a say in what topics get covered next.

Soil Born Farms is an urban farm and education center located in Sacramento, CA. From our two urban farm sites on over 50 acres of certified organic ground, we are working to educate people about the connections between our food, our health and the health of the environment. Every day we produce and glean healthy fruit and vegetables, educate youth and adults through hands-on farm experiences and improve access to healthy food for everyone including our most underserved communities.

This year we are seeking to fill our Farmer- Educator position

Job Summary: The farmer educator is a trained educator and skilled farmer with a passion for incorporating education into a productive agricultural operation. The farmer educator is responsible for managing all adult educational activities that are directly linked to the farm. These primary educational duties include management and oversight of the youth job program, volunteer group facilitation/management, apprentice coordination/training and class instruction teaching specialty crop production practices to beginner farmers and gardeners. The farmer educator will work closely with the other farm managers and education staff to ensure that youth and adult students and volunteers both meaningfully contribute to the success of the farm and have positive educational experiences related to organic agriculture. Farm management duties will complement those of other farm staff specifically in the realms of orchard care, field management and planning.

To learn about job responsibilities, opportunities, and how to apply, click “read more”

Key Responsibilities
• Youth corps management and education in farm operations
• Volunteer coordination
• Apprenticeship coordination/education
• Teaching Specialty Crop production classes to beginning gardeners and small farmers
• Vegetable crop and Orchard management
• Liaison between farm staff and education staff
• Meetings

Hours and Compensation
• Between 40-60hrs/week
• Salary Range: $30,000 to $40,000 (Depending on experience)
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Sick Time and Paid Vacation

 Experience Required
• Three years farming experience on a diversified vegetable farm
• Trained educator with two years experience working with older youth in farm operations
• Experience designing dynamic curriculum
• One year experience in orchard care
• Passion for education
• Knowledge of sustainable agricultural systems
• Patience
• “Can do” attitude
• Ability to learn new skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to efficiently manage time, resources and people
• Ability to lift 50#
• Ability to work in all weather conditions, most notably heat
Please email cover letter, resume, and two references to Simon Farmer at sfarmer@soilborn.org

The “Neighborhood Garden Coalition” Mission is one of stewardship of the environment and to empower communities using urban agriculture to feed themselves, using organic methods, and promote health, nutrition and well being. We are working to establish sustainable community gardens by forming partnerships between local residents, youth, seniors, educational institutions, social service agencies, governmental entities, and other key stakeholders.

“Song and Spirit Institute for Peace” part of the Franciscan Volunteer Corp promotes greater understanding among people of diverse religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds through music, art, and gardens providing cultural programs, dialogue and study. It is run in part by BROTHER AL MASCIA, OFM, who is a Franciscan Friar of the St. John, the Baptist Province.

Position Summary: There are two areas that are part of these positions. The primary responsibility will be working in the development of a web-based system where farmers, consumers and distributors can share information that would allow the movement of food from farm to consumer. The other is working with two community gardens that are managed by the NGC. Sharing of duties and responsibilities will be encouraged.

To learn more, and find out how to apply, click “read more” below.

Farm to Consumer: The interns will work with farmers, and consumers to help develop the criteria and identify the barriers that will guide in the development of the proposed system. The basic concept is “Facebookish” with special tools that are will allow transactions.  The emphasis is on local food systems comprised of (a) forming clusters that can leverage resources (b) establishing central distribution points and (c) connecting larger farms directly with the consumer wherever practicable. The intern will need to be able to educate and work with producers and consumers to the advantages of participating in local food systems.

Community Garden:The interns will help manage two community gardens to improve growing techniques, crop yields and sales. One is an accessible garden inclusive of all people including those with physical and mental handicaps, which is part of Song and Spirit Institute for Peace.  The other garden is in an underserved community where it is important to connect with the residents to promote nutrition and role of locally grown organic food.

The positions are located in Ferndale, MI and will be working primarily in Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties. The interns may be requested to work on other duties as required. Position reports to the Jim Greenwood of the Neighborhood Garden Coalition and is guided by a three-member task force.

Qualifications: Are flexible. The ideal candidates will have:

• Have at least two years education in horticulture, agriculture, or other natural science.
• 20 years of age or older.
• Experience in organic farming
• Should be able to demonstrate ability to work with diverse groups of people, have excellent communication and organizational skills, computer savvy, and a passion for being part of and the development of local food systems.
• The ability to work independently, and as part of a team.
• Must have reliable transportation and phone.

Terms: This is a part-time seasonal position working from Mid-May through September.  Hours of work will be 35 hours a week for approximately 16 weeks. It is a non-paid position. Room with kitchen privileges is included. A $1500 stipend will be paid at the end of the internship term and completion of the work as described. Expenses directly associated with the project will be reimbursed such as gas, materials and supplies.

For more information or to apply, Please contact: Jim Greenwood (jim@thengc.org) 248-390-4790; or Carl Scott  (carl@thengc.org) 248-376-0858

Here’s how the strange story starts: On April 1st, 2012 Michigan State Department of Natural Resources implemented an Invasive Species Order (ISO) forcing the eradication of certain breeds of heritage pigs on their farms. According to the DNR, the order was issued “to help stop the spread of feral swine and the disease risk they pose to humans, domestic pigs, and wildlife as well as their potential for extensive agricultural and ecosystem damage.” But the definition of feral seems to have gotten lost somewhere along the way.

There is no doubt that Michigan is facing a feral pig problem. But why in the world would they be targeting small farms in an effort to deal with it? And watch out, because apparently there are a number of other states considering similar legislation.

Apparently the answer has to do with the wording of the Order, which defines a feral big based on particular physical characteristics including “straight ears, wooly hair, dark snouts, and stripes on the piglets”.

As it happens, many small Michigan farmers have been raising a heritage breed called “Mangalista”, renowned for its flavor and tenderness. This is a pig species that has been around for several thousand years, but which MI farmers tend to crossbreed with varieties that are tough enough to make it through the harsh Northern Michigan winters. The result, unfortunately, is a pig that matches up perfectly with the definition of a feral pig included in the DNR Order.

Enter Jason Foscolo (the unlikely ally). Jason is an agricultural Lawyer from New York State who worked with heritage hog farmers in MI to form the American Mangalitsa Breeders Association to, among other things “help members jointly manage the reputation of the breed and be able to intercede on their behalf whenever regulation or market forces jeopardized their interests”. And due to the existence of this organization, Jason was able to intercede on the farmers’ behalf, eventually procuring a Enter Jason Foscolo, an agricultural Lawyer from New York State. Jason not only helped to form the organization, he was instrumental in helping negotiate an agreement with the DNR that at least purebred Magalistas will be protected.

The choice to classify feral pigs based on their anatomical traits, rather than whether they happened to be running amok (and evidence suggests that most of the hogs that are doing so are escapees from “hunting clubs”), rather than whether or not they are contained on a farm may have simply been an oversight.

But some farmers believe it has been an intentional and concerted effort led by the large confinement hog factories common in the state under the leadership of the Michigan Pork Producers Association, and with good reason.

Click Read More Below to continue reading this crazy tale.

At the bottom of this post there is a youtube video that has been watched over 75,000 times featuring one of these farmers and I have to admit, it’s quite compelling. There is also an article available on the web in which a representative of the Michigan Pork Producers Association, an industry lobby group, states point blank that they: “are involved in this”.

Whether one believes the conspiracy theories or not, it does seem strange that the DNR has systematically targeted small heritage pig farms – threatening arrest, and either killing the farmers’ pigs, or giving the farmers the “choice” to do so themselves in what seems an absurdly ironic attempt at providing the illusion of compassion and choice in this process.

In any case, as Jason says “Farmers have a whole array of legal resources at their disposal they can use to scale-up their power. There is of course the cooperative, which we have posted about numerous times. The Lanham Act, where our modern trademark law comes from, has a class of trademarks that farmers can use to collectively market agricultural goods. Neither of these examples, just two among many, are revolutionary legal concepts. They are proven organizational tools that have been used for ages by Big Food to protect their interests, conduct their business, and maintain their market dominance. Small-scale farmers have equal access to them all, but they just aren’t using them yet.”

You can view Jason’s numerous posts on this issue and many others on his website/blog at http://jasonfoscolo.com/

NCAT and USDA RMA Offer Practical Advice for Beginning Farmers on Organizing and Understanding Their Numbers 

Beginning farmers and anyone else considering farming in the Northeast have a new tool for one of agriculture’s most daunting tasks–crunching the numbers.

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), with funding from the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA), has just posted a new webinar that can smooth the road for anyone who is beginning a journey in agriculture and wants to get comfortable with handling finances. The webinar, “Farm Finances: Organizing and Understanding Your Numbers,” is available now at https://attra.ncat.org/webinars/.

As with any small business, starting a farm requires basic accounting and business-management skills. This webinar helps beginning farmers become familiar with necessary basic accounting techniques and gives them tips on organizing and understanding their numbers.

“With a few easy steps and forms, farmers can develop good record-keeping and accounting habits from the outset,” said Hannah Lewis, one of the featured NCAT ag experts in the webinar.

The topics in the webinar provide a solid overview. They include: Clarifying your goals and attaining them; Determining which resources are necessary for farming. Do you have them?; Organizing your data; What can your numbers teach you?

Hannah conducts the webinar along with NCAT staff member Tammy Hinman.

Hannah has worked in sustainable agriculture and food systems for more than 15 years as a farm worker, retail produce manager, advocate, researcher, and educator. She currently serves as Midwest director and local-food system specialist at NCAT, and she works on projects related to farm-to-school initiatives, beginning farmers, and business planning. She has a Master of Science degree in agriculture and sociology from Iowa State University and serves on the board of the Women, Food, and Agriculture Network.

Tammy has worked in the sustainable-agriculture field for more than 20 years as a farmer, with Cooperative Extension Service, and for various nonprofit organizations. She is currently a horticulture specialist with NCAT and works on project related to beginning farmers, business planning, farmers markets, and market gardening. She also runs a small diversified vegetable and flower farm in Bozeman, Montana. She has a Bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Colorado State University and a Master of Arts degree in food system studies from Antioch University.

Internship description:

Internship duration: First of May through the end of September 2012— Please apply now; email: rothclancy@live.com

To learn all about the internship and what you need to do to apply click “read more” below.

Education Opportunities:  Largely self-directed.  Interns are encouraged to ask questions and encouraged to do research on pertinent farming topics.  This could be a wonderful and educational experience for anyone interested in learning about a farming/ranching lifestyle.

 Work experience/skills desired:  No experience is required for this position, but do need to be a motivated, active person with a strong desire to learn!  Male or Female applicants welcome!  Position will require hard work and dedication.  Sometimes long hours.  Interested individuals should be able to listen and follow detailed instructions, ask good questions, and work efficiently.  It is also important that you be responsible and consistent.  You will be required to work outdoors in all kinds of weather, climb on and off of equipment, and lift 40-50 lbs.

Meals/Housing:  Stipend 250/week.  All of your food will be provided.  If a meal is not prepared you will have free access to our kitchen to prepare food for yourself.  You will have a private bedroom in a 7 bedroom 4 bathroom beautiful house.  Shared kitchen, bathroom, laundry.

Extra activities:  This area has beautiful sunrises and sunsets.  Great place to horseback ride and go for long walks.  Occasionally Elk come and go from our place, we also have antelope and deer.  In the spring the ground will be peppered with beautiful tiny wild flowers.  It’s a solid hour from any city, so if you like being in town this will not appeal to you!  Having your own transportation is necessary if you want to come and go.  I will not be making very many trips to town in the busy summer!

Interested?  Please answer the following questions:

Why are you interested in this internship?

What do you hope to gain from your experience?

What kind of physical labor have you done in the past?

Describe your previous work experiences?

The workshops are led by growers who are implementing a variety of practices including mineral balancing, biological inoculations, and integration of crop and livestock systems on their farm. Presenters will explain and demonstrate the systems they have developed to enhance soil fertility and discuss the connection they see between their farming practices and nutritional quality. The emphasis of this workshop series is on the “how” of implementing soil building objectives on the farm, although the “why” will also be addressed.

List of Workshops on Soils Building:

Brix Bounty Farm, Dartmouth, MA:  Instructor: Derek Christianson; A) Saturday, May 12, 9am-12pm, Transplants and Seed Starting, $30; B) Sunday, June 17, 3pm-6pm, Foliar Sprays and Crop Monitoring, $30

Simple Gifts Farm, North Amherst, MA: Instructors: Jeremy Barker-Plotkin and Dave Tepfer; C) Saturday, June 23, 1pm-4pm, An Integrated Crop & Livestock System for Soil Building, $30

Many Hands Organic Farm, Barre, MA: Instructors: Julie Rawson, Jason Cucchiara, and Brian Fecteau; D) Sunday, July 22, 9am-1pm: Managing Biological Fertility on a Diversified Certified Organic Farm, $30

Discounts Available: NOFA Members receive a discount of $5 per workshop. There is also $5 discount for registering 14 or more days before the workshop you’re registering for.

More details and registration info: http://www.nofamass.org/programs/extensionevents/nutrientdensity.phphttp://www.nofamass.org/programs/extensionevents/beef-dairy-pigs.php

Job: Experienced Farmhand at Sweet Stem Farm in Lancaster County Pennsylvania, 2012

As their business evolves and their market grows, they’ve developed the need for seasoned farm help, ready to go to work with minimal training, particularly to help cover daily chores Fridays through Tuesdays. They are a “high-touch” farm, so you will work hands on with the pigs, sheep and cattle. If you are familiar with farm life, you know that daily duties will vary, but jobs include caring for their animals, pastures, crops, and maintaining and operating our facilities and equipment.

The person who fills this position will work closely with the farm owners, farm foreman, and interns to keep operations running smoothly, especially during the transitions from weekday to weekend routines. You need to be self-motivated, since there may not always be someone to direct everything you do.
This position is perfect for someone who likes to work hard and is interested in sustainable agriculture and passionate about animal welfare. Livestock experience is not required.
Starting wage: $15-18/hr. depending on your capabilities.

To learn about job requirements and how to apply click “read more” below.

Time commitment: They are looking for someone that will be available every Friday through Tuesday. The animals don’t stop needing care on weekends/holidays, so they need a high level of commitment. Farm life can mean variable hours on your workdays (approximately 5-18 hrs. depending on the season, but 8-12 hr. days are most common) and working in all kinds of weather. For most of the year (April through November), the work schedule will be 5 days a week but they will sometimes need extra days during the busiest weeks, such as during lambing season and intense phases of crop production. Lambing requires the most intensive time commitment for about 4 weeks in April and May. There may also be weeks where the work is slower, especially from January through March. During the winter months they may only need help 4 days a week. In the slower parts of the year, Saturdays and Sundays are chores only. During the busy season, Sundays are usually chores only (except during lambing season). Wednesdays and Thursdays will be your regular days off unless they need extra help. During the busy season, and on busy days during the slow season, the long hours require a dedication to the job and a commitment to working as long as needed. Outside interests must take a back seat to the farm’s requirements.Requirements/Responsibilities: This position requires a person that is dedicated to the daily rhythms, chores, and care of our animals. This means, in part, that they don’t have a set schedule but work each day according to weather conditions and many other factors. Great attention is given to stockmanship, identifying potential problems before they happen, and working together as a team to creatively solve issues.

Experience with careful and efficient farm machinery operation are required for doing the farmhand job and for helping train the interns. They build a lot of their own livestock equipment and need someone with diverse carpentry and metal working skills to help build new equipment and modify existing equipment as needed. They also own and operate fairly old tractors (some over forty years old) and other machinery and need someone who can do regular maintenance and minor repairs. Once a good understanding of the farm routine is gained, the farmhand will help lead interns in completion of animal chores, field work and many other projects.

Daily Tasks (will include but are not limited to): Most days will include scraping manure, loading/feeding hay, checking water, making and checking pig feed, and bedding the animals. They practice rotational grazing and often need fences set up and taken down as they move animals from pasture to pasture. They also have a number of portable feeders and shelters that are moved regularly. You will need to be able to complete these tasks efficiently and safely, and guide interns in developing similar proficiency.

Ideally the right person will:
Be detail and task oriented.
Be accustomed to farming chores and be willing to work through busy seasons and slower seasons.
Have a flexible schedule outside of work to accommodate variable hours as they change by season.
Be organized, orderly, and help improve organizational systems, such as keeping tools and buildings neat and ready for use at any time.
Have a general understanding and concern for animal care and welfare.
Have some carpentry and mechanical skills.
Have a lot of experience safely operating farm machinery of all kinds.
Have a working knowledge of 12 volt electrical systems.
Be naturally observant and pick up on the finer points of animal care and feeding, machinery, operation and maintenance.
Be situationally aware, positive and self-motivated.
Be able to lift at least 100 lbs. and be on your feet for long hours.
Be capable of remembering or writing down detailed instructions.
Be competent and willing to document tasks and use of time.
Have a valid driver’s license.
Excel at taking initiative and getting routine things done without needing to re-discuss basic tasks.
Seek direction and consult with us on non-routine tasks.
Be interested in why they do things the way they do and help us refine their production practices while keeping in mind that they have tried a number of approaches and have in place a basic framework that they intend to stick with.
Have interpersonal skills allowing you to work well with a variety of other people and take the lead when working with interns.

Let them know if you:
Have a CDL
Have a touch of perfectionism
Please send the following to sweetstemfarm@gmail.com:
A description of your work experiences and why you want to join Sweet Stem Farm. Also explain why you think you would be a good fit for the job. Reply to sweetstemfarm@gmail.com. If they are interested in giving you further consideration, they will send a questionnaire.

He’s both a fantastic writer, and someone who shares a lot in common with many of the new and beginning farmers I’ve met through this site. Many of his stories are absolutely hilarious. Many are sobering. But they all “tell it like it is” from his perspective. The first one he sent in 3 pieces in a facebook post because facebook only lets you write a certain number of words before it cuts you off. I was immediately captivated, and when I read it aloud to my wife we were both laughing so hard I had to keep taking breaks to catch my breath. Then I started reading it to anyone who would listen. A lot of my friends are cynics, and others are perhaps a tad self involved. But everyone who allowed me to read it to (both farmers and non-farmers) had similar reactions – not only the laughing aloud part, but something along the lines of: “seriously, this guy you don’t really know sent you this thing on facebook? He’s either crazy, brilliant, or both”… Anyway, everyone I could get to let me read it to them or read it themselves absolutely LOVED it.

About a week later I got an e-mail about a farmer writing competition from a publisher I don’t even remember what the prize was supposed to be. But two days later the publisher asked me to take down the post because the funding fell through. Well I just couldn’t let it go, so I got in touch with the publisher and shared a couple of Steve’s stories with him. He wrote back almost immediately, I put the two of them in touch, and the result is now published and available in electronic form.

It really is a terrific book, and everyone who’s reviewed it on Amazon is of the same opinion. It tells about Steve’s experience starting the farm, and shares many of his madcap adventures – some disastrous, many hilarious, but all true, and written with a personal style that is both humble and heartwarming. Anyway, I highly recommend it. It’s a fun and easy read, and it only costs 3 bucks.

I’m really proud to call Steve a friend. And I guarantee that after you read it you’ll think of him as a friend as well. I have no stake in this, and assure you that he’s not making a bunch of money from this venture. He’s just a farmer with some great stories to tell, and he happens to be good at doing that. Buy the book here: http://www.amazon.com/So-We-Bought-Farm-ebook/dp/B0068WAFRC

Because in previous bills monies had been allocated by year, the $50M allocation for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program for fiscal year 2013 looked to me like an increase in funding over past farm bills. But as it turns out, the $50M seems to be the total ask – meaning it will be allocated, and once it runs out, it’s gone. This means a $10M per year allocation if they choose to space it out, which the language does not require them to do. This is not only far below the $25M per year we were asking for, and was included in the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2011 (Sponsored by Senator Harkin and Co-Sponsored by 4 other members of the Senate Ag. Committee as well as 9 other Senators); it is a significant decrease from the funding provided in the 2008 Farm Bill (which was $75 Million for a four year bill, or a little over $18M per year.

So not only is the Senate Agriculture Committee poised to introduce a bill that cuts funding for this program nearly in half, but there is a possibility that it could be cut further either on the Senate floor or (more likely) within the House version of the farm bill. What we need is an Amendment from an Ag. Committee Member to increase funding for this part of the Beginning Farmer programs in the farm bill.

Other important losses that may affect beginning farmers in the current Senate Ag. Committee Draft include 1) an eradication of the Value Added Producer Grant Program (VAPG) which was funded at $15M in the 2008 farm bill and $40M in the 2002 bill; 2) changes in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) with no corresponding increase in the set-asides for beginning farmers and ranchers (so even if the draft Senate Bill holds, we may be looking at decreases here); 3) as previously mentioned, it looks like funding for socially disadvantaged and limited resource farmers (section 2501) which includes money for beginning farmer programs, and serves individuals who make up a disproportionately large sector of the beginning farmer and rancher community looks like it may be cut entirely; and 4) The Farm and Ranch Land Protection Program has been updated and does not include any of the provisions for encouraging transfers to beginning farmers that were asked for in the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2011 (see above); and 5) The microloan program (a strategy that has shown to be extremely useful in funding beginning farmers) that we asked for in the BFRDP was not included.

Bear in mind again, that the Senate Ag. Committee Markup (scheduled for Wednesday) is a starting point, and while many of us are working hard to get Ag. Committee Members to Amend the draft to increase or at least hold current funding for beginning farmer programs at 2008 levels, there is a good chance that they even if we are successful, there will be cuts made as this bill goes through the process of a Senate Floor vote, a House Markup and Vote, and a Conference Committee process that brings the versions from the two Congressional bodies in line with one another.

You can find a brief, but detailed analysis of the Beginning Farmer provisions in the Draft Senate Ag. Committee Bill at http://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/senate-fb-bfr-drilldown/.

And I urge all of you who are concerned about this issue to please call your Senator (to contact your Senator, use the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at: 202-224-3121), and express your support for increased funding for beginning farmer and rancher programs in the 2012 Farm Bill.

I get a half dozen e-mails a day from people who are excited about farming, many of whom are well qualified, but simply can’t find funding. And beginning farmer programs constitute a tiny fraction (I once calculated them at 0.2% (though it’s difficult to get all the information one needs to do such a thing) of total farm bill spending. So please, take just a moment to advocate for these important programs by contacting your Legislator.

Taylor Reid

On Friday April 20th, 2012 the Senate Agriculture Committee released its 2012 Farm Bill Draft. A number of policy wonks including myself have been looking closely at the legislation and have been lobbying for crucial programs for the past week.

On Thursday, April 19, Beginning Farmers LLC along with nearly 200 other organizations from across the country, delivered a letter to Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Pat Roberts (R-KS), Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, urging them to support funding in the new farm bill for two key programs that support the next generation of farmers, including beginning, socially disadvantaged and limited resource farmers and ranchers.

In my reading of the draft, it appears that the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) portion of the draft now includes in its “set-aside”, funding for military veterans – which is a proposal that I actually initiated. Thanks to lobbying efforts by myself, and more importantly – by members of the National Sustainable Agricultural Coalition (NSAC) it appears to have made it through through this first cut. It also appears that the funding ask for fiscal year 2013 is $50M, which is a substantial increase – something that many of us have been asking for. Unfortunately, the draft Bill does not ask for funding beyond 2013. Why this is and what it means is something I’m still trying to figure out, and as I talk to others who are more familiar with the process, I hope to learn more and will keep you updated.

Thanks to everyone who responded to the request I posted on Friday asking for calls to Senators encouraging them to support increased funding for this crucial program.

The draft legislation which will be marked up by the Senate Agriculture Committee on Wednesday includes a total of $23Billion in cuts for farming legislation over the next 5 years according to Ag. Committee Chair Stabenow. According to the Senator, this will be achieved primarily by elimination of direct payments, and payments for farmland that isn’t planted, instead consolidating them into a larger “farm insurance” program. The payments for unplanted farmland provision comes, I believe, out of the Conservation Title. And though it has been misused by a few, it also encourages farmers not to plant on land that is “marginal”, or environmentally fragile.

Also included in the draft is the elimination of “Section 2501″, which was originally prompted by discrimination lawsuits and was aimed at helping socially disadvantaged farmers (who constitute a disproportionately large number of beginning farmers overall). You can learn more about this issue from Public News Service.

I certainly could be wrong in some of my analyses and interpretations here. This is a quick first look. Other aspects of Beginning Farmer programs still need to be analyzed, and anyone with differing opinions or a better understanding of what this all of this means are encouraged to share their opinions and interpretations. Simply click the “Comment” tab in green above (just below the title).

I will certainly keep folks updated as this becomes clearer.

Taylor Reid

They have 150 acres near Seneca Lake, one of the largest of the Finger Lakes. Ten acres are used for growing a wide variety of vegetables, herbs and berries. For over 10 years, they’ve been using a permanent bed system in all of our fields, with strips of native vegetation between each bed. This enables them to avoid soil compaction, be more accurate in applying soil amendments, and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

Although they grow over 40 kinds of vegetables, the main crops are lettuce, spinach, root crops, and bunching greens. They also grow ornamental and vegetable transplants, as well as early tomatoes and greens, in two greenhouses and two unheated hoop-houses. Marketing is also diverse. They sell at the Ithaca Farmers’ Market, about 20 miles away, every Saturday. They sell to two large food co-ops and several restaurants in the local area. In addition, they’ve developed a winter produce subscription system, delivering boxes of mixed storage vegetables to customers in the Ithaca and Rochester area during January, February and March.

To read the job description and to learn how to apply, click “read more”

The farm work varies according to the season. In the spring, they’re busy with field preparation, seeding and transplanting, (which are mainly done by tractor) and greenhouse work. As the crops grow, there is plenty of weeding, thinning, hoeing, cultivating, and irrigating to do. From late June on, much time is also spent on harvesting, washing, packing, transporting, and selling the produce.

The work requires the ability to do repetitive tasks quickly and efficiently, a love of the outdoors in all kinds of weather, a strong back and tough knees, an eye for details, and the ability to work well with other people. Although the work is hard and physically tiring, there are many rewards. Every day is different, but every day the results of our efforts are clear. The main results are so important -growing healthy food in a sustainable way, and providing it to local consumers.

They will be hiring 2-3 full time people. Normally everyone works five 8-hour days per week, Tuesday through Saturday, with Sunday and Monday as days off. We try to be as flexible about scheduling as possible. Most people live locally, but we do offer housing on a first come, first served basis, please inquire if interested. Starting pay is $8 per hour, (more for those with significant farm experience) plus produce for personal consumption, plus a bonus based on total hours, paid at the season’s end. Merit-based raises are always a possibility. They need people from around May 1 to November 15, and give priority to those who can stay the whole season.

See their website Blueheronorganic.com for more information. If you are interested in working there, please apply via email. Download and return an application along with a resume if possible. If you have additional questions, feel free to e-mail bluheron@empacc.net.

U.S. Senate Ag Committee on Fast Track with Farm Bill: Support for New Farmer Training & Assistance In Peril

The U.S. Senate version of the 2012 Farm Bill will be likely be introduced by Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow today (Friday April 20^th), and immediately following its introduction it will be marked up and voted on by the Senate Agriculture Committee. Despite the need for increased support for beginning farmers, funding levels for important new farmer programs, look as though they may stay static under the current Senate Ag. Committee markup recently made available for review. And if this Committee doesn’t act to increase their funding request, we are likely to see support for new farmers remain at 2008 farm bill levels, or even see them cut as the bill goes to the Senate floor, then to the House.

One very important program is the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. Passed in the 2008 Farm Bill with dedicated funding, this program helps resource groups and institutions assisting new farmers. (See background information below.)

Thousands of beginning farmers have received support though these Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program funded projects. You probably know an organization or institution that received a grant or you know a new farmer that participated in a project. The program leverages that community-based support, which makes a huge difference for beginning farmers. It’s a great example of how public investments can stimulate the outcomes we want – more beginning farmers getting started and succeeding. That is something we all know we need more of.

A quick call to your Senator could make a big difference. Action is needed today! Please click “read more” to find out how you can help.

The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program has no funding past 2012. As Senate Farm Bill proceeds, it is still unclear if any resources will be dedicated to the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. The only indication we have to go on is what happened in the proposed “Secret Farm Bill” within the failed Super Committee process last fall. In the “Secret Farm Bill” only $10 million a year was provided to the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. That would be a 47 percent decrease compared to what was offered for the program this year and represents a massive cut to the program overall. We cannot allow this to happen in the Senate Farm Bill.

U.S. Senators need to hear from organizations, farmers, and indivuduals about the need for making real investments in beginning farmer support. Ask your Senator to secure these resources that maintain and grow training and assistance for our next generation of American farmers and ranchers.

To contact your Senator, use the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at: 202-224-3121.

Message: I want Senator __________ to make the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program a top priority and to ensure it is funded at $25 million a year in the Farm Bill. We need to invest in support for new farmers because they are the future of American agriculture, which is an important part of the U.S. economy. (Or feel free to use your own words).

When you call, it’s best to try and contact the staff member responsible for agriculture issues if you can.  If they are not available, make sure to leave a message with the receptionist. Let them know what organization you’re with and where you’re from.

Additional Background on BFRDP: One of the most successful beginning farmer and rancher initiatives out of the 2008 Farm Bill, the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP), provides grants to community organizations and educational institutions to assist and support beginning farmers and ranchers.  Essentially, BFRDP matches federal resources with local, state and regionally based networks and partnerships to provide education, training and support for beginning farmers and ranchers.

The competitive grant program is administered through the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), and offered on a yearly basis. The 2008 Farm Bill provided $75 million in mandatory funding for the program over the four-year period from 2009-2012.

Entities eligible to apply for funding include: state cooperative extension services; relevant USDA, state, and tribal agencies; community-based and non-governmental organizations; colleges or universities (including community colleges, land grant institutions, etc); and other appropriate partners, as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture.

To date, nearly 330 institutions and groups have applied for this program in just the first three years. However, program funding has only been made available to 32 percent of applicants who applied for funding. BFRDP has offered a total of 105 grants and nearly $53 million to awarded projects.

For more on the BFRDP and program analysis, see the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program: 2011 Progress Report.

Investing in the future of American Agriculture: Beginning Farm & Rancher Opportunity Act

Over the past year, beginning farmer supporters have advanced the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act. This legislation has 20 House co-sponsors and 12 Senate co-sponsors and is authored by Rep. Tim Walz (D-MN) and Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) in the House and Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) in the Senate.  Included in the legislation that supporters hope to cement in the 2012 Farm Bill are provisions aimed at:

Enabling access to land, credit and crop insurance for new producers; Assisting new producers in launching and strengthening new farm and value-added businesses; Helping new producers become good land stewards; Providing training, mentoring and research that beginning farmers and ranchers need to be successful (BFRDP); Conducting outreach on agricultural job opportunities for military veterans.

Please, make your call today!