Calendar...... 24 Report...... 23 Grain Organic Classifieds...... 22 Briefs...... 20 News award Recent Women’s Project...... 15 Rural Farms Johnson Success...... 15 Crop Row Breckbill Hannah Spotlight...... 13 Farmer New National Young Farmers’ Coalition Corner...... 12 Farmer New Crops...11 and Livestock Integrated Kefir?...... 8 Got Resources and events Women’s Project...... 7 Rural Custom harvesting, compost Specialist!...... 6 MOSES a Ask poultry Soy-free Positive...... Proof Training for generation the next Apprenticeship...... 4 Grazing Dairy Can organic be perfect? Organics...... 3 Inside MOSES...... 2 From News Benefitsto both Healthy organic calves Volume 4 21·Number In This Issue

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PO Box 339 Spring Valley, WI 54767 Th e Bi-Monthl .... 5

y Periodicalof Greenhouses just are not consistent enough for pensive for controlling humidity and heat. ex and difficult proven have but sprouts, the have been made using greenhouses produce to critical for sprouted fodder work. to Attempts options. Light, moisture and consistent heat are it economically competitive with other feeding is the technology and engineering that makes dating back at least the to 1600s. What is new references sprouting to for small grains fodder Sprouted fodder is not a new idea. There are barley as afeed ration. MOSES attended learn more to about sprouted ty, had apasture May, walk in which from staff these farms, Johnson’s Mervin Coun Barron in on organic farms the in dairy Midwest. One of recently been installed (or being are installed) barley production. Some of these systems have sprouted automated semi- or automated for systems veloped companies have de duction. Anumber of pro fodder for barley onfocuses sprouting interest that cently Re feeds. alternative updriving interest in drought of 2012 are the and prices Record high grain true. true. more For dirt.” many of us, this might well be cern about food safety we just if all ate alittle producers say, “We wouldn’t have of thisall con over the last several years, Ihave often heard Teaching about food safety around the country nual activities. of part manya regular vegetable farmers’ an regulation, and food safety audits becoming are where fresh produce growers now face FDA has steadily over grown the years, the to point “food safety.” But the emphasis on food safety ble farms before anyone even said the words, twenty years ago Iworked on three vegeta When Igot organic in started over farming The FoodSafetyModernizationAct ing to fresh produce and food manufacturing and and – not form which final, in proposed, are still handling manufacturing food and produce fresh to ing relat rules FSMA The right. these regulations get to Administration Drug and Food the for important changes tosystembig our food – and isit extremely some represents It eat. to people for food process that facilities in and farms produce on practices of new regulations includes It 1938. since practices safety food nation’s our of overhaul major first the is (FSMA) Act Modernization Safety Food The Keeping it Clean: Understanding the Mid A Revolution Feed? in Animal west Sprouted Barley Fodder– Food Safety on the Farm - - - Or Seven-day-old barleysproutsprovidequalitydairyfodder. ganic and Sust By Chris Blanchard Chris By ainable Educa By Joe Pedretti By Joe ------systems used here based are on their designs. fodder have come from Australia–several of the Many of the advances made sprouted in barley lose output over time. much longer than any other option, and last do not also LEDs reduced. greatly are expenses pensive buy to upfront, the long-term operating heatcess generated. moreexisAlthough LED very is energyparticular efficientwithlittle ex able climate control systems. lighting LED in afford more and lighting fluorescentLED and efficiency high is alternative feed viable a as What has revolutionized sprouted barley fodder viable. economically not system this making expensive, very was and heat excess of lot a generated lide, or call (202) 547-5754. call or sustainableagriculture.net/fsma/speak-out-today/ http:// at website Coalition National Agriculture the Sustainable to go comment, to how and rule the about information For systems. conservation and able and businesses, organic growers, value-added rules work for sustain small and farmers, mid-sized final the that ensuring to critical are and rules, final the shape directly will processors on-farm and ers rules to provide input to FDA. Comments from farm by the new affected and others processors, ers, farm for opportunity critical a is there that means approach food to safety. of this diversity, you need take to a proactive customers someyour least reflect at Assuming break was 81. a2011in Colorado cantaloupe Listeria out pathogens –the median age of people who died others much are more susceptible food-borne to organ transplant patients, cancer patients, and affected. The very young, the very old, recent some estimates, over a fifth of the population is Americans have weakened immune systems; by is highly variable. increasing An number of pathogens to However, resistance individual tion Serv ice To To on page 16 page on Barley Sprouted on page 10 page on Safety Food To sodium or metal ha mostly pressure high which was lighting, However, the able. reli more production were more stable and light artificial using droponic systems with fully automated hy Experiments duction. pro fodder reliable July - August 2013 July -August ------ORGANIC News From MOSES I enjoy working with and living around farm- not increase with the addition of 4 pages, BROADCASTER ers because they tend toward eternal op- so we decided to make the leap. I hope you timism, and have a general reluctance to enjoy the expanded content. Volume 21 · Number 4 complain. This weather year is definitely test- July · August 2013 ing those qualities. At a meeting I attended The Organic Specialist team has had fun Editor this week with about 30 Wis., Minn. and Iowa bringing answers to common questions they Jody Padgham—[email protected] farmers and organic advocates, in response get via the MOSES “Organic Answer Line” to the question “how much rain has your area though the new “Ask a MOSES Specialist” Organic Broadcaster Mission received in the past 3 days?” my answer column. If you have a question certainly call The Organic Broadcaster provides farmer was the lowest–only about 2.5 inches, as us at 888-551-4769. You’ll get an answer -focused, current news and information that compared to 8 or 9 from those reporting from from one of our specialists, but perhaps we’ll assists farmers in successful organic pro- northern Iowa. Well, I guess I’m not count- also share their advice in print so everyone duction and offers relevant updates about ing the 2 folks from Colorado, where they’re can benefit from the answer. the organic community. dealing with severe drought and fires... We can’t talk about learning without men- Advertising/Classifieds Our claim of the resiliency of organic systems tioning the great lineup of organic field days Support the Organic Broadcaster and reach is truly being put to test this year. If we could MOSES has in store this season. Check out over 10,100 readers through three advertis- just get the corn in the ground and the hay the sidebar on page 15 and the calendar on ing options: out of the field I think that claim page 24 to explore all of your options. We Support the Broadcaster through a busi- would still hold up. consistently hear that exploring best practices ness Patronage Package. Contact Luisa at through an on-farm field day is one of the 715-778-5775 or [email protected] for Perhaps you noticed in picking up this is- best ways to learn new things. more information. sue of the Organic Broadcaster that it feels Display Advertisers: Rates and size op- tions are available at www.mosesorganic. a little heavier than usual–we are thrilled to org/ad_rates.html or by contacting the of- announce the paper’s growth from 20 to 24 Enjoy your summer, fice at [email protected]. Dis- pages. With a lot to share in each issue, we Jody Padgham, counts for multiple issue placements. were pleased to discover that postage would Organic Broadcaster Editor Classified Advertising: 25 words for $12.00, 15 more words for an additional $6.00. Submit ads online by going to www. Leaving a Legacy: How You Can Continue to Plant and Harvest mosesorganic.org/ad_rates.html and click- ing on “online form.” Or, mail in the clas- At some point, we all realize that we will not be walking For farmers who want to create a lasting organic and sified ad form found on page 22 with your this good green earth forever. Some of us may be lucky sustainable farming legacy, one option is to make a payment. to get a wake-up call that reminds us that it is a good bequest to MOSES. MOSES is gradually adding more idea to leave a plan. planned giving options and information to our web- site. An easy place to start is to add simple bequest Events/Calendar Items One young MOSES supporter recently shared her language for MOSES to your will. You can choose to MOSES will publicize events that are of “wake-up call.” A friend’s spouse died suddenly leaving leave a specific sum, or you can choose to leave a re- interest or relevance to our community. To no will, and no written instructions at all. The result- sidual amount after all your heirs have received their submit an event, go online to www.moses- ing confusion made a time of sorrow and shock even bequest from you. You can even choose to leave MO- worse for the wife and children. This got our supporter SES a contingent bequest, which would only come to organic.org/eventform.php or e-mail a notice thinking about her own young family. She realized that the organization in the unlikely case that none of the to [email protected]. We reserve the they had no will, no plan, and that not much discussion people named in your will survive you. right to deny any submitted event for any had been put forward on the topic. reason. A simple bequest will use language like this: “I hereby Does this sound like you? Although this is not an easy give, devise and bequeath to the Midwest Organic and TM conversation for families to have, you will feel better Sustainable Education Service, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Organic Broadcaster is a trade- after doing it. the sum of ____ dollars. It is understood that my gift marked bimonthly newspaper of the Mid- will be deposited into the general fund of Midwest Or- west Organic and Sustainable Education It is always good to consult a competent advisor when ganic and Sustainable Education Service, to be used as Service (MOSES), a nonprofit organization you are working through important details such as its Board of Directors deems appropriate.” working in the Upper Midwest to promote who will care for your children should both parents pass at the same time. After that important decision, If you do decide to include MOSES in your plans, be sustainable organic agriculture. Opinions the next step in planning for your passing is what to do sure to check out our web pages (www.mosesorganic. expressed in the Organic Broadcaster are with your estate. You do not have to be a Rockefeller org/donateWaystoGive.html) to find more detail on those of the authors and do not necessarily or a Gates to need a plan. You probably own a house, a options, or just give me a call. We would love to hear reflect the opinions of the publishers. We farm and cars. Perhaps you have retirement plans and from you as you are working through this process so do not endorse the products of any adver- stocks. Properly planned giving can create tax savings we can thank you for your good work right now. that result in a larger estate being passed on to your Luisa Gerasimo, tiser, and we reserve the right to refuse heirs. MOSES Development Director, inappropriate advertising. We reserve the [email protected] right to change our advertising policy. MOSES Staff: Keep in touch: Submissions, inquiries, ads, and calendar Faye Jones, Executive Director items may be mailed to: MOSES, P.O. Box [email protected] MOSES educates, inspires and empowers organic Jody Padgham, Financial Manager and sustainable farmers—and cares for the envi- 339, Spring Valley, Wisconsin, 54767. Rel- [email protected] evant calendar items will be printed with- ronment. Please help us save trees and use your Harriet Behar, Organic Specialist out charge, space permitting. [email protected] donation $ for programs rather than mailing costs. Joe Pedretti, Organic Education Specialist Please contact us for a writer’s guide. [email protected] Get news by email: Angie Sullivan, Organic Resource Specialist You can choose what goes to your inbox. MOSES P.O. Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767 [email protected] (715)778-5775 Audrey Alwell, Communications Director Monthly Organic Link eNews [email protected] [email protected] (includes a link to the online version of the www.mosesorganic.org Luisa Geramiso, Development Director bimonthly Organic Broadcaster) [email protected] Carly Stephenson, Office Assistant Periodic notifications of Organic Field Days and SAVE PAPER [email protected] other events happening in your area Read the OB Online Eric Hatling, Media Coordinator This newspaper is available as a download- [email protected] Information about the annual able pdf and as an html document from www. Jessi Padellford, Project Coordinator MOSES Organic Farming Conference mosesorganic.org/broadcaster.html. If you [email protected] prefer not to receive a paper copy in the Andrew Violet, IT Support Coordinator If you’d like to change what you get by email [email protected] mail, please contact us and you will be from us, email [email protected] or call us Lisa Kivirist, Rural Woman’s Project Coord. removed from the OB mailing list. [email protected] at 715-778-5775.

2 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 INSIDE ORGANICS Can Organic be Perfect? By Harriet Behar

At a meeting I recently attended a consumer However, I had to correct them, sharing that improve our operations, not only to make them representative stated she wanted “organic to organic cheese has just as much cholesterol more profitable, but also to make them more be perfect.” as non-organic. I also informed them that the sustainable from both an environmental and animals were fed organic feeds tailored to an economic standpoint. But are we looking This statement brought many questions to my maintain their optimum health, that antibiot- for “perfection?” I am not sure that any farm- mind. Would my perception of perfect be the ics were forbidden, and their living conditions er could say their operation, or the food they same as hers? Are organic farmers, ranchers, were mandated to provide for natural behav- produce is “perfect.” Kathleen Merrigan, for- processors, brokers, retailers etc. striving for iors and lessening of stress. These consumers mer USDA Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, “perfection” in all they do? Does this mean now had the information they needed to decide warned the National Organic Standards Board there are unrealistic consumer expectations of if these conditions provided them the extra val- before a recent meeting to “not let the perfect producers which create a rift between organic ue they were seeking. be the enemy of the good.” This could be seen producers and the customers they serve? as encouragement to compromise principles and move the agenda forward. Or, it could be The organic community has worked diligently acknowledgment that we will never reach per- to build trust in the organic label. We have Food producers must do fection, especially in the complex world of food promoted organic agriculture as a way to pro- production from farm to table. vide healthy food while continually building a better job of sharing up soils and enhancing natural resources. not only the feel- For some, perfection would be a weed-free field, Organic advocates point to studies that show and for others, it would be a field that is grow- higher levels of antioxidants and other nutri- good side of organics, ing native plants that have never been dis- ents in organic foods as they are grown in bal- turbed. anced, vibrant living soils and ecosystems. We but also the hard go further and tout organic as a way to reverse work and difficulties The strength of the organic movement has been climate change, through carbon sequestration based in a strong partnership between consum- performed on organic farms through the use of inherent in farming. ers and producers. The growth of organic pro- cover crops and diverse rotations that include duction is based on more farmers responding perennial crops. to growing market demand by becoming cer- tified organic. Organic producers and organic Organic agriculture can be thanked for sav- Since farming is the profession of less than consumers need each other. However, over the ing many a family farm and bringing young 1% of the American population, it is no won- past few years, I have seen a growing rift be- people and nontraditional farmers to the land, der that most people do not understand the tween consumer groups and organic producers supported by the economic benefits that or- compromises farmers need to make every day. over what type of production systems and ma- ganic can bring. Rural revitalization can be Should that tree line be removed to open up the terials should be used under the USDA organic tracked to organic agriculture in some areas, land for a few more rows of crops, even though label. especially where there are concentrations of it reduces wildlife habitat? Should the beef organic farmers and businesses that service cattle be allowed to drink from the stream, Certified organic production differs from non- their needs and market their products. even though there will be some erosion at that organic in that it restricts the use of most spot? Should that field be tilled or cultivated synthetic materials, even though they might How Clear is the Picture? one more time to lessen the weed pressure, be useful in a farmer or processor “toolbox.” It is easy to see how, through our own optimism even though we know that it uses fossil fuels, Organic is about finding the “middle ground,” about organic agriculture, we have perhaps destroys organic matter and has a negative ef- built an image that is unrealistic. I remem- fect on soil structure? To Inside Organics on page 23 ber giving out samples of organic cheese at a consumer event where numerous people said There are even questions about pasteurizing “oh, look, healthy organic cheese; that means and homogenizing milk; do these processes there is no cholesterol in it, right?” I probably lessen the nutritional value and make the or- Thanks to our should not have been surprised that they as- ganic milk less perfect? sumed that since organic dairy is so wonderful, Organic Broadcaster it probably would not contain that evil choles- Is Perfect the Goal? terol! As organic producers we strive to continually PATRONS Our Patrons contribute generously so that the Broadcaster can be Soil Works LLC widely distributed at no charge. Calcium is the Earth’s PO Box 119 Contact [email protected] to learn more purifier of water. about becoming a MOSES patron Yankton, SD 57078 Calcium is in your teeth. 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www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 3 Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship: Employment and Training for the Next Generation By Bridget O’Meara

Historically, the family has been the pri- Formal Program Structure mary institution for providing training, Farmers interested in mentoring a begin- experience and resources to the next gen- ning farmer or helping an employee take eration of dairy farmers. Dairying is a the next step toward ownership now have lifestyle as well as a profession that has a teaching framework and a support sys- long been passed down from parents to tem in formal Apprenticeship. The DGA children. Aspiring dairy farmers not born curriculum was created by a committee on a farm have little chance of attaining comprised of veteran dairy farmers, graz- the skills, knowledge, cattle, equipment ing educators, industry representatives and land needed to achieve their dreams. and other stakeholders. It is composed Even for those with related work experi- of 4,000 paid hours of training over two ence, without managerial skills, invest- years (the equivalent of a full-time job). ment capital or a farm to inherit, the bar- 3,712 of these hours are on-farm employ- Clem Miller, now a Journey Dairy Grazier after graduating riers to ownership are formidable. the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, gets ready to move cows ment under the guidance of an approved on the 200-acre grazing farm he currently manages. Master Dairy Grazier. As an Apprentice At the same time, dairy producers with- gains skills and confidence, the Master out a willing heir often are forced to sell off ages with the option to transition into owner- documents that progress in the comprehensive their cows and land upon retirement. Because ship. DGA Training Guide, often referred to as “The new farmers are not entering the profession at Job Book,” which identifies the core competen- a rate to offset the loss of retiring producers, Retiring dairy producers and Master Dairy cies required to operate a managed grazing fewer small and mid-sized farms remain to Graziers, Glen and Mary Harder of Rib Lake, dairy farm. The Job Book provides structure meet industry needs, and so large confinement Wis., were able to transition out of ownership to the mentoring process. operations have expanded. over a period of three years while their Ap- prentice, Brandon Probst, “The teaching structure A New Solution developed the managerial of the program is very ef- It doesn’t have to be this way. Dairy Grazing skills and equity needed fective,” sad Master Dairy Apprenticeship (DGA) is an innovative pro- to take over the farm. Grazier, Kay Craig. “As gram based in Wisconsin that aims to diversify Through Apprenticeship, producers, we can be more and strengthen the dairy industry by creating Master Dairy Graziers focused on getting the a new generation of independent and sustain- Greg and Wendy Gal- work done than on the rea- able dairy farmers who can help meet indus- braith, who run a grass- sons behind our decisions. try needs, restore vital natural resources and based dairy near Wausau, Having benchmarks laid repopulate rural communities. Following the Wis., provided Apprentice out ahead of time makes well-established educational model for other Gabrielle Rojas with a us more conscious of the skilled professions, this formal Apprenticeship solid educational founda- knowledge and skills we in “managed grazing” dairy production com- tion, management experi- use to run the farm and bines on-the-job training and mentoring under ence and equity in cattle gives us a blueprint for a Master Dairy Grazier with paid related in- that she used to leverage mentoring an Apprentice.” struction. Apprentices earn while they learn, the financing of her own becoming Dairy Grazing Apprentices, Journey farm. In addition to on-the-job Dairy Graziers, and finally Master Dairy Gra- training, DGA requires ziers themselves on a pathway to independent The Galbraiths view their 288 hours of paid related farm ownership that draws on existing support participation in the DGA instruction that includes structure, and places experienced farmers at as a rewarding responsi- Journey Dairy Grazier, Gabby Rojas (right), formal courses and other the center of the educational process. bility. “It was nice to have pictured here with her husband, Julio, and their educational opportunities. help from Gabby, but we children Jade, Jonathan and Reyden, developed a business plan and built equity in cattle during Apprentices who have al- Established in 2010 by GrassWorks, Inc., a didn’t just see her Ap- her Apprenticeship, which helped her qualify ready completed compa- Wisconsin producer organization, and the Bu- prenticeship as a means for an FSA loan to purchase her family’s farm. rable coursework may re- reau of Apprenticeship Standards, Wisconsin of acquiring labor,” Greg ceive credit hours toward Department of Workforce Development (BAS- said. “We had a responsibility to take time to DGA graduation requirements. WDWD), with support from USDA National teach her.” “We are happy to have the oppor- Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning tunity to help shape a new generation of dairy Related instruction consists of Farmers and Rancher Development Program farmers who are able to buy their own farm A) Required core curriculum: (BFRDP), DGA is the first accredited, legally and continue the tradition of family-owned • Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy and recognized Apprenticeship for farming in the dairies,” Wendy added. nation. To Apprenticeship on page 19

“Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship is a program created by and for farmers,” said Joseph To- mandl, III, DGA Program Director and third generation dairy farmer. “In Wisconsin, farm- ers have been experimenting for a while with new educational models, including learning WANTED: clusters, mentorships, employee training and ORGANIC DAIRY FARMERS farm transition. Apprenticeship not only incor- Horizon® is Seeking New Farmer Partners porates the best of these efforts but also pro- for the #1 Organic Milk Brand* vides a level of standardization and profession- alism that we really need right now.” Richard Klossner (Midwest) 303-319-6899

www.horizonorganic.com While experienced farmers who participate in DGA are at different stages in their careers, Find us on , and they share a commitment to helping the next generation get started. Tomandl himself is a Master Dairy Grazier and has gone through the program with his employee and Appren- tice, Clem Miller. As an investment, Tomandl Primus Farm, Melrose, MN ending 3/3/2013 past 52 weeks IRI data *Source: Keri Pickett by Photo Organic. ©2013 Horizon purchased a second farm near his home farm in Medford, Wis., which Miller currently man- 19113_HO_MOSES.indd 1 5/15/13 4:10 PM 4 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 PROOF POSITIVE

Soy-free Poultry Ration Research Summarized by Jody Padgham

With the development of faster grow- were treated nearly ing, high nutrient-demanding animal identically. This, in con- breeds, the high protein content and junction with the rep- low cost of soybeans have made them resentative weights of an important ingredient in many mod- the birds (both live and ern feeds. However, for the past several processed) seems to in- years producers have been approached dicate that the birds fed by consumers requesting meat that the soy-based feed were has been produced using soy-free ra- more efficient at utiliz- tions. ing feed for growth.

Poultry producers find this request However, this is not especially challenging, as roasted necessarily suggesting soymeal is the standard protein used that the feed consumed by the poultry industry, typically mak- was the direct factor re- ing up 30-40% of the weight of the ra- sponsible for the weight tion. At 36-38% protein, contributing gain. Among other dis- 1,000-1,600 Kcals/lb of calories, high crepancies, there exists in fat (16-20%), relatively available and variation in caloric val- low cost, soybeans are difficult to re- ues, protein content, fat place. Alternatives being explored in- content, and moisture clude peas, sunflower meal, camelina content in the feed. The meal, and fish and crab meal–but each weight difference could has its limitations. Although market be attributable to a vari- demand is driving exploration into soy- ation in overall health, free poultry rations, the economic and vigor or grazing ability production implications of this switch FCR= Feed Consumed per pound of weight (live or carcass) that arose from the dis- have been relatively unknown. similarity in the feeds. Results: In response to the recent demand, research has Results show that the been undertaken through the certified organic birds eating the soy Penn State Dickinson College Farm in Boiling diet grew significantly Springs, Penn., coordinated by Jeff Mattocks faster and larger than of the Fertrell Company, to compare results of those in the soy-free feeding soy and soy-free rations to grass-fed group, even though the broilers. soy-free group ate more Soy Group food per bird at two of In the summer of 2012, three different breeds the locations. Thus it Soy-free Group of naturally fed broilers (K-22 Red Broilers, can be concluded that Cornish cross and Bard Silver cockerels) were those fed a soy diet were grown in three different types of pasture pens more efficient in their on three farms. Each farm raised only a single utilization of the feed. breed, split into two groups, treated exactly the Since the soy-free ration same except one group was fed a soy ration and cost 6.9 cents per pound the other a soy-free ration. more than the soy ra- tion, the average cost of Ration Formulas: production for the soy- free birds was $0.90, $0.74, and $0.60 per pound carcass weight The decrease in feed consumed per body weight more on each of the respective lends credence to the latter theory that the feed farms. isn’t directly the cause of a larger bird. Given that growth continues to accelerate but the Building on Prior Research amount of feed consumed with regards to body This 2012 research is an expan- weight decreases, it seems that birds are more sion and follow-up on research heavily relying on grazing for their growth done at Dickinson College Farm in and body maintenance. Regardless, the data 2010. That research had birds on suggests that distributing the soy-based feed the Dickinson College farm only produces, on average, a larger bird. Further- and used only K-22 red Broiler more, given the bird quality observations, it chickens fed in two groups us- appears that the birds fed the soy-based feed ing the soy and soy-free rations were overall more robust and healthy. It should listed above. Results were simi- also be noted that the ratios of dressed weight lar to those shown in 2012, with to live weight were remarkably similar in each birds fed a soy-based feed growing population.” (“No-Soy Ration Research,” Alex faster and larger than those fed a Smith, in Feeding Pasture-Raised Poultry by Each group contained 40 to 50 birds, raised soy-free feed. Jeff Mattocks, Fertrell Company, 2013) in pens on pasture. Data was collected at each farm on the amount of feed consumed and The analysis segment of this earlier research For more information, see the publication Feed- weight gains of the birds. states: “Each population consumed significant- ing Pasture-Raised Poultry by Jeff Mattocks, ly similar amounts of feed per bird and they available from MOSES.

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 5 ASK A MOSES SPECIALIST

In this column we provide answers to common questions received by MOSES organic specialists. Feel free to give the MOSES Organic Answer Line a call at 888-551-4769 with any questions about organic agriculture you’d like answered…We will do our best to help!

Question: I am having my organic corn (or combine and the density of the crop. You should Question: Can I use compost from my coun- soybeans or small grains or hay) custom be able to justify to your inspector the amount ty’s composting program on my organic harvested. What should I do to protect the of your purge. Typically it is 10-20 bushels. farm? organic integrity of my crop? Answer: by Organic Specialist Joe Pedretti Answer: by Organic Specialist Harriet Behar Combine cleaning is done routinely by farmers who grow crops to sell as seed in order to main- Municipal compost is becoming more common Harvesting of many organic crops is routinely tain seed purity. Many custom operators know as communities switch to composting yard and done by custom operators who are not organic. how many bushels they need to run through kitchen waste instead of sending it to a land- These operators will need to follow specific pro- their combine to remove traces of the previous fill. The National Organic Standards separates tocols to prevent commingling of the organic crop, especially if they combine small grains compost in two groups: one that might contain crop with any non-organic crops or prohibited in mid-summer and then beans and corn. You fecal matter from animals or humans, and one substances still present in the equipment. must document who cleaned the combine, what that does not. Within each group, the compost they did and when. Some manufacturers may must meet specific criteria to qualify for use on When using a combine to harvest grains, soy- have information on how many bushels must organic farms. beans or corn, the machine must be cleaned be run through the combine to clean it out. thoroughly between any non-organic crop and Compost that might contain manure must meet the organic crop. If the combine operator is If the previous non-organic crop was Genetical- the composition, temperature and turning speci- working with another organic operator before ly Modified (GMO), even a trace of non-organic fications in the National Organic Standards: harvesting your crop, you may not need to have crop dust in your organic crop could result in a (i) Established an initial C:N ratio of between the combine cleaned. You will need documenta- positive GMO test and rejection of your organic 25:1 and 40:1; and tion that the last crop run through the combine load if and when it is tested by the buyer. An (ii) Maintained a temperature of between 131 was organic, and not a buffer strip, a transi- ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound °F and 170 °F for 3 days using an in-vessel or tional crop, or non-organic crop the other or- of cure in this case. static aerated pile system; or ganic producer may have grown. (iii) Maintained a temperature of between 131 If someone is custom harvesting your hay or °F and 170 °F for 15 days using a windrow com- Cleaning a combine is labor-intensive and still swathing your small grains, make sure the posting system, during which period, the mate- may not remove all traces of a non-organic crop. equipment arrives at your organic field clean. rials must be turned a minimum of 5 times. Running the combine with all of the doors The cutting and windrowing equipment is easy open is one way to shake out kernels and dust. to inspect. If it is traveling any distance over The county/city must provide the documentation Blowing out with compressed air and/or a shop the road it has most likely been shaken enough to show these standards were met before you vac is also an option. After either of these is to remove any non-organic hay or straw. This is can use a material as compost. If they cannot done, you also must run the combine through a true for large round balers, as they are mostly prove they have met these standards, it may be swath of your organic field, separating the first self-cleaning. However, it is still your responsi- possible to still use it, but it will not be consid- 30-60 feet or more of the crop that has been bility as the organic producer to verify and doc- ered compost, it will be considered raw manure, harvested. This harvest must be stored, used ument that there is no residue of non-organic and will have different handling requirements: and/or sold as conventional. Keep a receipt or crop in or on the equipment before it is used to 1) Raw animal manure, which must be compos- other documentation to show your organic in- harvest your organic hay or straw. If a custom ted unless it is: spector that this combine “purge” was either operator first harvests your own conventional (i) Applied to land used for a crop not intended fed to your own non-organic livestock or sold hay, a buffer zone, or transitional hay, you will for human consumption; as conventional. The distance you harvest for need to clean the equipment before using it on (ii) Incorporated into the soil not less than 120 this combine “purge” depends on the size of the your organic crop. days prior to the harvest of a product whose ed- ible portion has direct contact with the soil sur- Small- and large-square balers are more prob- face or soil particles; or lematic since they typically retain a partial (iii) Incorporated into the soil not less than 90 bale or two. You will need to run at least three days prior to the harvest of a product whose ed- small-square bales or one large bale of your ible portion does not have direct contact with the own crop through the machine as a “purge,” soil surface or soil particles; and document that these were stored and sold or used as non-organic. Many large square Composted and un-composted plant materials balers have some sort of preservative that is without manure have no application restrictions, injected into the large bale. The preservative but the composting center must verify that the container should be emptied of any prohibited compost contains only 100% plant materials. If substances before the baler is used to harvest there is a possibility that it contains pet waste your organic crop; note this in your records. If (animal manure) then it must be handled as raw the product is a bacteria or other naturally oc- manure. curring substance you should verify with your certification agency that it would be allowed on Whether or not it contains animal manure, you your organic bales. Ask your custom operator still must make sure compost contains no pro- what type of preservatives might be used in hibited materials: the equipment, and check it with your certifier •Recycled building materials/lumber (due to at least a week before the operator shows up to paints, varnishes and glues) bale your hay. •Human waste t Red Ace F1 bee •Plastics and other un-compostable synthetics Rented storage areas as well as any transpor- Just one of over 650 varieties tation vehicles also must be verified clean and Check with the composting facility to see if they including high-yielding hybrid, free of previous crop residues or prohibited have the necessary documentation. If other or- substances before being used for organic crops. ganic farmers have been using their product, unique heirloom and Document that you verified they were clean be- it is quite likely they have this paperwork on open-pollinated varieties. fore you used them. This documentation can hand. Also check with your certification agency, be part of your field activity log or calendar, or which can do a product review if it has not al- To request a free catalog visit you can use the various forms your certifica- ready reviewed this compost for other farmers. tion agency may provide. Ultimately, your certifier makes the final call on www.highmowingseeds.com whether a product is allowed or not. All new in- or call 802.472.6174 puts should always be verified and added to your crop input list before use. 6 MosesOrganic.inddOrganic 1 Broadcaster • July4/14/13 - August 3:39 PM 2013 MOSES Rural Women’s Project: Resources and Connections for Women Who Grow By Lisa Kivirist

As the summer brings on the bountiful farm • Cultivating Our Food, Farms and Fu- harvest, the MOSES Rural Women’s Project ture: 4th National Conference for Women offers a range of flavorful “ingredients” to sup- in Sustainable Agriculture (Nov. 6 - 8, port the growing number of women farmers. 2013; Des Moines, Iowa) The award-winning MOSES project, launched MOSES is excited to be a partner in the only in 2009, is one of few grassroots organizations national gathering dedicated to women in sus- running a year-round program dedicated to fe- tainable agriculture, held this year for the first male farmers. time in the Midwest. The conference will cover a range of agriculture, farming and organizing Women-owned Farms on the Rise issues along with inspiring keynotes and am- According to the last USDA Census of Agricul- ple time for networking. Registration will open ture, women are one of the only groups of new later this summer, with farmer scholarships farmers currently growing in number, with an available. More information at www.wfan.org. increase of nearly 30% from the previous cen- sus. • Women-focused Resources The “Resources/Links” section of the Rural The Economic Research Service, the primary Women’s Project website offers a collection of source of economic research and analysis from Attendees at a 2012 Boots field day materials useful to anyone interested in farm- the USDA, recently issued a report looking at enjoy learning together. ing: www.mosesorganic.org/womensproject_ data on women farmers from 1978 through ning women farmers; over 60 percent of attend- resources.html. This page includes an hour- 2007. While women have contributed to farm- ees have not yet started their operations. long webinar titled “Planting Fresh Seeds ing and food production throughout American Webinar: Resources, Opportunities & Inspira- history, national-level statistics to track these 2013 In Her Boots workshops include: tion for Women Farmers and ECOpreneurs,” a numbers began only in 1978 when the Census Sunday Aug. 4: Decorah, Iowa. (Hosted by fact sheet on the growth of women in agricul- of Agriculture started asking for the gender of Barb Kraus at Canoe Creek Produce) ture, links to numerous women-run farms, a the principal farm operator. So, while we only Thursday Aug. 8: Kenyon, Minn. (Hosted by listing of grants and resources for women in have a small snapshot of the full impact and Mairi Doerr at Dancing Winds Farm) agriculture, and list of other helpful resources credit of women farmers, it is important, espe- Sunday Aug. 18: Brodhead, Wis. (Hosted by and organizations. cially in relation to recent trends. Dela Ends at Scotch Hill Farm) Any questions regarding the Rural Women’s The ERS report defines “women-operated • Soil Sisters: South Central Wisconsin Wom- Project – or new ideas to share – please contact farms” as those whose principal operator, the en in Sustainable Agriculture Farm Tour Day me: [email protected]. I look forward person most responsible for all the day-to-day After a successful launch last year, the Soil to crossing paths with you this year! operating decisions, is a woman. The report Sisters farm tour will continue in the Green looked at all women farmers collectively (not County, Wis. area on Sunday, Sept. 8, showcas- Lisa Kivirist is the Coordinator of the MOSES specific to organic operations). ing an inspiring cross-section of women-owned Rural Women’s Project. farms committed to sustainable and organic Highlights of the ERS Report agriculture. From eggplants to emus, sheep to • The majority of women-operated farms today solar energy, Bed & Breakfasts to beef, these are very small, with annual sales of less than seven farms offer a unique diversity of farm $10,000. These small-scale farm operations are experiences in one afternoon. The tour is free where most of the growth of women-operated and open to the public. New this year: various farms is occurring, increasing by three-fourths farms will be offering on-farm intensive work- from 1978 to 2007. This means that a small shops on Saturday, Sept. 7 prior to the tour. fraction of female farmers earn the majority of Details at www.soilsisterswi.org. all female farmer income: Only five percent of women-operated farmers (15,400 farms) had • Local Wisconsin Women in Sustainable sales of $100,000 or more in 2007. Agriculture Networks The Rural Women’s Project supports oppor- • Forty-five percent of women farmers spe- tunities for women committed to sustainable cialize in grazing livestock: “beef cattle other agriculture to gather and develop strong local than in feedlots,” (23 percent in 2007); “horses connections. The project has supported two and other equines,” (17 percent); or “sheep and such networks in Wisconsin: South Central goats” (6 percent). These farms are very small and West Central. See www.mosesorganic.org/ operations, cumulatively adding up to only 16 womensproject_Networks.html. percent of the total sales by women-operated farms. • Plate to Politics: Advancing Women’s Leadership in Sustainable Agriculture Women-focused Events and Resources and Food Systems Development The MOSES Rural Women’s Project champi- The Rural Women’s Project works in strong ons this growing movement of women farm- partnership with the Women, Food & Agri- ers, with particular focus on supporting small, culture Network (WFAN) to support women diversified operations. See the Rural Women’s in sustainable agriculture who are taking on Project webpage for details on all of the follow- leadership roles. Our “Plate to Politics” Wom- ing, as well as for additional resources: www. en’s Leadership Webinar Series runs through- mosesorganic.org/womensproject. out 2013, with topics ranging from building alliances to running for office. See www.plate- • In Her Boots: Sustainable Agriculture topolitics.org to register or view past webinars. for Women, By Women Now in their third year, these unique on-farm, • Women Caring for the Land: Land Con- daylong workshops for women farmers cham- servation Training for Women pion a peer-networking model. Held on various Free workshops in partnership with WFAN women-owned farms, Boots workshops cover provide conservation training for women, and a range of topics, such as farming as a single connect women with local resources, program woman and starting a farm mid-life. The Boots and networks. For a listing of free workshops workshops particularly attract new and begin- throughout the Midwest visit www.womencar- ingfortheland.org www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 7 Got Kefir? ‘Best Kept Secret’ for Healthy Organic Calves By Jody Padgham

One of the most important 24 hours. Once added to milk When asked if the kefir causes scours, Mervin keys to success in organic the culture will grow. Since it laughed. “We use the kefir to treat scours,” he dairy production is the is reused to create new batches, said. In fact, he now uses kefir in the dairy rearing of healthy calves. anyone actively culturing will barn to treat illnesses. “We had a cow each This can be especially chal- generally have extra to share. of the past few years with odd, DA-like symp- lenging for a farmer who toms (displaced abomasum). I fed each of them has relied on antibiotics to Since the Johnsons feed calves a quart of kefir (via tube) several times and treat health issues. A suc- twice a day, they add twice as within 2 days they were each completely back cessful organic system will much culture and maintain it to normal.” Whenever he has a cow that doesn’t be based on maintaining at a warm temperature to speed “look quite right” Mervin gives her a gallon of calf health and preventing up the process. A controlled kefir and she perks up in a matter of hours. diseases and other chal- room they use for barley sprout lenges from occurring. production is perfect for keep- Calf Groups on Grass ing the buckets at 70 degrees F Another key to the Johnsons’ success with A very successful organic to allow the culture to ferment. calves is a moveable pen system on grass. calf rearing system was After 12 hours, the kefir milk is When calves are 2 to 3 days old they are taken showcased at a recent pas- mixed, poured through a large off their moms and put out on the pasture into ture walk hosted by the colander into a bucket, and a 20 by 20-foot pen with up to 9 others about Northwest Wisconsin Gra- the kefir grains are saved and the same age. Using a bulk feeder with multiple ziers Network at the Mervin Phillip Johnson mixes kefir before added to another five gallons of nipples, the calves are fed kefir and allowed to and Diana Johnson farm straining out the grains. milk for the next batch. eat pasture. The pen is moved with a small jeep in Barron County, Wis. (or ATV) one to three times per day, depending Organic for 10 years, the “This is the only milk we feed on how many are in the pen, their ages and Johnsons graze 75 mixed-breed cows, includ- calves,” Mervin said. Although the Johnsons the condition of the pasture. Since the John- ing Holstein, Jersey, Brown Swiss, Normande generally leave the sons try to have and Fleckvieh, on 130 acres. calves on their moms all the farm’s for 2 or 3 days, if for calves born in Mervin and his son, Phillip, are pleased with some reason they don’t the five warm- their calf-rearing system of feeding whole-milk do this, they will make est months, a kefir combined with management of calves kefir of the colostrum majority are from ages 3 days through 3 months in group and feed that to the reared through pens on grass. newborns. The kefir this pasture- is mixed with a little based system. Kefir Offers Intestinal Support warm water to bring Diana Johnson explained that the family was the temperature up be- Johnsons have first introduced to kefir as a household food fore feeding. They bulk tried a couple product about 10 years ago. Kefir is a ferment- feed into feeders with of different pen ed milk drink believed to originate in the Cau- multiple nipples, with designs, one casus Mountains of central Europe and Asia. one gallon kefir equiv- made of welded It is made with “kefir grains,” which look like alent to one gallon of steel, and one a soft head of cauliflower, but are a live mass milk. Mervin and Phil- made of lighter of bacteria and yeasts. The kefir milk has a lip continue this rou- Young calves drink kefir in their pasture pen. weight gates. sour taste, somewhat like yogurt, and contains tine until the calves many beneficial micro-organisms that enhance are 3 months old. To Kefir on page 9 the health of the digestive system.

“We were enjoying kefir at home, and I decided to try it on the calves,” Mervin said. He’s been impressed with the thriftiness of calves that he has seen since. “I think kefir is the best-kept secret out there.” Several other farmers attend- for more than a century. ing the pasture walk backed him up on this Always as promised... statement. “We used to lose a lot of calves to sickness,” said one attendee. “We haven’t lost a calf in the few years we’ve been feeding kefir.” ORGANIC Dr. Guy Jodarski, staff veterinarian at Or- Certi ed Since 1995 ganic Valley, added that he has seen a lot of success with calves fed kefir. “I especially like to recommend kefir to farmers just getting into organic, because this is where we see a lot of trouble with calves.” One of the farmers present chimed in with his story of being in the first year of organic production and really struggling with keeping 2-week to 2-month old calves alive. “I started feeding kefir, and now my 3-month calves are strong, weighing twice what they did at that age before. Kefir has re- ally been a miracle for my calves.” We know your business. Kefir is made at the Johnsons by mixing fresh raw milk in 5-gallon buckets with kefir grain “culture” or “mother.” Ideally the live kefir cul- It’s our business as well. ture comes from a farmer or household that has some to spare, but dried kefir grains can be (800) 488-3500 • Omaha, NE purchased via the Internet or from most health [email protected] • www.scoular.com food stores. One cup of (hydrated) culture is enough for one gallon of milk if cultured for 8 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 Kefir... from page 8 All of the pens are covered at least half way with shade cloths from FarmTech. “Shade Farm Bill Fatigue is important, especially for the really young By Harriet Behar calves” Phillip claimed. “On really hot days they’ll spend all of their time in the shade.” The pens have wheels on one side and skids on the opposite side to make it easier to pull. It is understandable if you are experiencing stamp program, but at a smaller level than “Farm Bill Fatigue.” the more conservative members of the House The Johnsons and Dr. Jodarski see several wanted to see. It also retained many of the benefits to having the calves out on pasture so For the second time in two years the U.S. House programs that have been beneficial and effec- early. First, they get used to eating grass, and of Representatives has failed to pass their ver- tive for organic and sustainable farmers over have no transition time to becoming success- sion of a Farm Bill. In 2012, the House leader- the past 5 years. ful adult grazers. The group pen allows them ship failed to bring the bipartisan House Ag- to become socialized to the other calves, again riculture Committee’s farm bill to the floor for So, where do we go from here? The House lead- making an easier transition to the adult group a vote by the full House, and now in 2013 the ership could tack the Senate’s version of the dynamics. Obviously the nutrition from the full House rejected the House agriculture com- farm bill onto another bill, and see if it could grass is beneficial to the young animals. Dr. mittee’s bill and amendments by a vote of 234 pass that way. Or, the House agriculture com- Jodarski pointed out the value of young calves to 195. mittee could work on modifying their bill to being able to selectively graze on diverse pas- gain more votes and reintroduce it. These two ture for plants that have natural deworming Approximately a quarter of the Republicans in scenarios are unlikely, but in this Congress, it characteristics. He explained that by moving the House voted against the 2013 bill, joining seems anything can happen. pens before the grass gets below four inches, most of the Democrats. What appears to have and not running over the same ground more driven this defeat are proposed changes to the The most likely and problematic scenario is than once or twice a season, any potential par- SNAP, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance, or an extension of the previous farm bill, which asite problems will be avoided. “food stamp” program--cuts of $20 billion over we are operating under right now. Many of 10 years, and new requirements such as drug the visionary programs from the 2008 farm testing and having a job or being in job train- bill were not included in this extension. These ing as a prerequisite to participation. Demo- “orphaned programs” promoted organic agri- crats refused to agree to cuts this deep, while culture, supported opportunities for beginning Republicans did not think the cuts were deep and nontraditional farmers, offered reforms to enough. farm programs that provide huge subsidies to large farmers, or those who do not farm at all, When looking at programs that promote a and enhanced the economic development of ru- strong and growing organic agricultural move- ral areas. ment in the United States, the House Agricul- ture Committee bill fell short of the Senate’s MOSES and our partners will be working to final version of the farm bill. Amendments to include organic programs in either a farm bill the House agriculture bill providing funding extension bill or any new bill that might be Welded steel pen with cover and feeders to retain organic price reports and the organic working its way through Congress this sum- works well for young calves on pasture. agriculture census, as well as funding aiding mer. Thanks to everyone who made a call or the National Organic Program to improve data sent an email to your member of Congress Fed kefir twice per day, the calves also have collection and dissemination, was not allowed concerning the recent farm bill activity. It did free access to water, mineral and hay, but are on the floor. The justification was the lack of make a difference. We might to calling on your not fed any grain. As they get close to 3 months spending cuts to other organic programs to to do this again. of age, the kefir is fed in open pails instead of fund these two programs. through the nipple system, a transition that helps reduce ear sucking once the calves are There was no funding in the House bill for or- weaned and placed out in groups in the regular ganic certification cost share, although it did pasture rotation. fund the Organic Research and Extension Ini- tiative (OREI) at a slightly higher rate than Beyond the testimonials, the shiny coats and the Senate bill. Provisions that provided a fair Biological Solutions Since 1950 frisky nature of the calves at the Johnson playing field for organic farmers seeking crop farm proved that this system of organic calf insurance or participation in the Environmen- rearing is working well. Using both kefir and tal Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) were group pasture pens the Johnsons were happy not even heard on the House floor. with the health and thriftiness of their calves, Aphid Control Mealybug Control Fly Control and the ease of their transition into successful, On the other hand, the Senate’s bipartisan fi- 800-248-BUGS • 805-643-5407 • Ventura, CA healthy adult grazing cattle. nal Farm Bill included many reforms to farm rinconvitova.com programs, including the removal of direct pay- Jody Padgham is the Organic Broadcaster edi- ments. It included crop insurance for crop and tor. livestock producers as well as cutting the food

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 9 Food Safety... from page 1 rying fecal bacteria. In other words, we live in Running water is important to remove con- Food safety isn’t just a legal responsibility, a contaminated world, and everybody on the tamination from your hands, and to keep your or an ethical obligation to our customers. It’s farm has a responsibility to reduce the chance hands from being re-contaminated. The water also an obligation to the rest of the local foods that bacteria will be carried from someplace doesn’t need to be under pressure, it just needs community. In 2006, over 50 billion serv- innocuous into somebody’s food. to flow over and away from your hands, to car- ings of fresh bagged salad greens were sold ry away the bad stuff that you are washing off. in America. That September and October, an Workers should wash their hands when they The basin you use for washing your hands outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7 associ- get to work, and again when they are going to should be dedicated to hand-washing – the act ated with baby spinach sold in bags killed five handle food or handle anything that touches of washing your hands in it contaminates it. people, and sickened a little over 200. Despite food. Any time workers come into the packing And potable water is a must. It doesn’t do any the overwhelming safety of the spinach supply, house, they should wash their hands. The or- good to wash your hands with contaminated fresh spinach sales still haven’t risen back to ganisms that cause food-borne illnesses can water! pre-2006 levels. If we ever have a significant survive for a long time in the soil–you don’t outbreak associated with a farmers’ market or have to see fecal matter for those organisms to Soap is an absolute requirement for getting the a farm-to-school program, we can count on the be present. nasties off of your hands. In the same way that media to make such a big deal out of it that the muddy hands spread dirt much more read- small farm and local food movement could be ily than dry but dirty hands, wet hands can set back by decades. spread bacteria more easily than dry hands. Sanitizers are not an acceptable substitute for Fortunately, regulators and auditors recognize soap on the farm, because clay particles and that food safety is all about risk reduction. organic matter dramatically reduce their effec- While certified organic farmers are used to a tiveness. set of rules where things are either mandat- ed or disallowed–you must rotate crops, you For the same reason that using soap mat- may not use chemical herbicides–in the world ters, drying your hands is a critical step. That of food safety, we have a lot more flexibility in means drying with a towel that isn’t contami- much of what we do. Even the FDA’s proposed nated–not the back of your jeans. Using a Produce Safety Rule tries to acknowledge that single-use towel keeps somebody else’s sloppy there are many different paths to clean food. hand-washing from undermining your careful On different farms, and in different crops, dif- scrubbing. A single-use towel doesn’t have to ferent steps will have the biggest impact with be disposable–you could use cloth towels that regards to food safety. You have to do what are used once and laundered between each use. makes sense given your crops, your scale, and Once you’ve washed your hands, the used wa- your markets. ter and the things it touches are considered to be contaminated, so you must keep it from Where Contamination Happens running into the field. In a packing house, that When you hear about somebody with the “stom- probably means a septic system; in the field, ach flu”–vomiting and diarrhea–it’s almost al- A handwashing station built from University of Minnesota that means a separate container for waste wa- ways a form of food poisoning. Food poisoning Agricultural Health and Safety Program plans. Numbers ter. is almost always the result of some sort of fecal on the photo refer to the “materials list” in the publication. contamination. In other words, if you’ve got the The University of Minnesota has published stomach flu, chances are that somehow you ate Of course, workers should wash their hands plans for an inexpensive field hand-washing poop. And that poop had Salmonella, or Liste- after using the toilet. It’s not so much that the station at http://goo.gl/YdLQV (see photo). ria, or Camphylobacter, or any number of other act of using the bathroom somehow automati- human pathogenic bacteria in it. cally contaminates your hands, but that lots This is the first in a series of articles about of people use the bathroom, and you have to food safety written by Chris Blanchard, an or- The good news is that preventing microbiologi- assume that they aren’t as clean and as care- ganic farmer, educator, and consultant. Chris’ cal contamination in fresh produce is pretty ful as you. Plus, it’s a good idea to periodically consulting and education work focuses on pro- viding systems and tools to farmers and food simple, and comes down to just a few things: get your hands clean in order to reduce overall businesses to help them succeed in farming, first, keep the poop off the food; second, as- bacterial load. business, and life. chris@flyingrutabagaworks. sume that the food has poop on it, and keep the com, www.flyingrutabagaworks.com poop from spreading to other food; and third, Workers who have been in contact with farm assume that the food has poop on it, and keep animals, or who have worked with animal that poop (or the microbes in it) from growing. waste, must wash their hands when they are Vegetables are produced out in the real world. done–even before working in the office or driv- And the real world is filled with poop: goose ing a farm vehicle. An employee with fecal mat- poop, cow poop, deer poop, people poop. Even ter on her hands who touches a keyboard or slug poop can carry food-borne pathogens such holds a steering wheel is contaminating those as Salmonella. surfaces; the next worker who comes along is likely to end up with contaminated hands. An Easy Place to Start: Hand Washing When it comes to risk reduction, if growing and packing vegetables was driving a car, washing your hands would be the equivalent of wearing a seatbelt. The single most important thing you Minnesota Crop Improvement Association can do to reduce food safety hazards on your Ensuring Upper Midwest Organic farm is to provide proper hand-washing facili- Product Integrity Since 2002 ties, and ensure that you and your workers are using them before touching food or anything ORGANIC CERTIFICATION SERVICES that touches food, and after touching anything that might be a source of contamination.

Hand-washing has two goals: to keep contami- • Handlers nated hands from touching produce, and to • Processors keep contaminated hands from contaminating • Producers other surfaces. For that reason, everybody on the farm – not just produce workers–must fol- • Wild Crop low good hand-washing procedures. A recent • Livestock study in England found that 11 percent of ran- domly sampled hands were contaminated with fecal bacteria at the same level as found in a dirty toilet bowl–as were 8% of sampled credit LocaL Responsive committed to seRvice cards and 6% of paper money. A separate study 1900 Hendon Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108 found that over a sixth of cell phones were car- 1-855-213-4461 / www.mnica.org

10 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 Integrating Livestock with Crop Production Yields Benefits for Both By Rick Kersbergen Crops and livestock have historically been in- weed control in both fall and spring, and can tegrated in farming systems. However, in the be undersown with clover or other legumes to last 50 years there has been a trend towards provide nitrogen in subsequent rotations and a specialization of single crops, diversified vege- sod crop establishment with minimum tillage. tables or livestock. In many cases, this special- ization has also developed into consolidation of 6) Adding livestock products to the marketing commodity production. mix can help improve cash flow in the winter and add a new aspect to CSA operations. For example, in many areas we see vegetable production focused in one county, and dairy 7) While not always discussed, successful or other livestock production in another. This “coupled” animal/vegetable operations can also consolidation creates a reliance on commercial help to build community with a farm region. fertilizer in the vegetable county for fertility, Coupled operations also have the option of and a concentration of manure nutrients in Livestock add fertility to a crop rotation. sharing machinery resources and labor during the livestock counties. In the livestock areas busy periods. the largest source of nutrients that end up in sheep or horse manure with high amounts the soil may actually be from imported grain of carbonaceous material such as sawdust or Livestock Waste Can be an Issue purchased to feed dairy cows and young stock. shavings may “tie up” nitrogen when applied While there are many positives to integrating If the nutrients going into livestock operations to the soil. livestock and vegetable operations, there are are coming from outside the area, it can poten- also some risks and issues. Most involve the tially lead to excesses that cause over-fertility, More specifically, what are the benefits use and handling of livestock wastes and efflu- environmental concerns and non-point source of adding livestock to vegetable ent from feeding operations. pollution. operations? 1) A source of nutrients that can be used for Organic operations have specific guidelines Recently there has been increased discussion direct application and/or composting. By com- for the use of manure and manure composts. of diversification and re-integration of crop and bining livestock and vegetable production, the Un-composted manure is permitted under or- livestock operations. Two scales of integration whole farm nutrient balance of imports and ex- ganic rules if it is applied 120 days prior to are often discussed: (1) within-farm integra- ports becomes more even. harvest of crops where the edible portion has tion, where a crop or dairy operation diversifies direct contact with the soil or soil particles, or and adds another enterprise and (2) among- 2) Along with nutrients, manure and compost at least 90 days prior for crops where the edible farm integration, or “coupled” farms, where applications tend to improve soil organic mat- portion does not have direct contact with the two or more operations share land, manure ter, biological activity and potential disease soil or soil particles. Livestock manure may be nutrients, forage and grain crops grown in ro- suppression. This improved soil health will used on crops that are not for human consump- tations. These coupled operations allow indi- manifest itself quickly and include improved tion without waiting periods before harvest. vidual specialization, but facilitate sharing of soil nutrient cycling, improved soil structure, Manure tea and liquid manure have the same nutrient and land resources, hopefully benefit- better water holding capacity in droughty soils restrictions. Composting eliminates these ing both operations. and improved drainage in heavy soils. “waiting” periods, but involves time and tem- perature monitoring for pathogen reduction. Benefits of Integrating Livestock and 3) Livestock operations improve the potential Vegetable Operations for profit in lands that are in a “sod” rotation. Additionally, new USDA guidelines for GAP When evaluating the benefits of integrated Sod crops help to build soil structure (grass (Good Agricultural Practices) discourage the systems it is obvious that organic vegetable roots) and soil drainage (legumes/alfalfa). Sod use of manure or adjacency with livestock op- producers would benefit from the improved crops high in legume content will also provide erations. With many markets now demanding flow of nutrients from manure produced from a source of nitrogen when those fields are re- GAP certification, many vegetable producers a livestock enterprise. This is especially true turned to row crop production. may be hesitant to integrate livestock and when one considers areas that are deficient in vegetables. While GAP guidelines discourage soil phosphorus. Feeding forages and grains 4) Livestock provide a use for crop residue and integration, they do not eliminate the poten- through ruminants will improve phosphorus waste or cull vegetable crops. This can help re- tial. GAP certification and the audit process is availability. duce disease while providing a “cheap” source based on a point system. Bringing manure and of feed for livestock. Cows turned into a field of animals into your vegetable operation means Nitrogen from manure is also fairly rapidly pumpkins in November utilize great feed and that you lose points in one section; in order for available to plants during the growing sea- help vegetable producers clean up a field! your operation to pass the audit, it must be son. This, of course, is dependent on the type “tighter” in other food safety management. of manure and bedding content. Poultry ma- 5) Grain crops used by vegetable operators as nure (cage layer) will contain very little carbon cover crops can fit well into livestock rations. Below are links to information regarding food and have high nitrogen availability, while beef, Winter grain crops provide fall nutrient catch, safety and the use on manure in vegetable op- erations, as well as information about GAP au- dits and the certification process. What is GAP? In this piece Rick refers to “GAP,” while Chris there is no such thing as ‘GAP-certified’; you can Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Haz- Blanchard’s article in this issue talks about “food pass a GAPs audit, but those vary widely from ards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables safety practices.” What is GAP, and how does it auditor to auditor. Likewise, there is no official http://1.usa.gov/1216LQL relate to food safety? This is what Chris Blanchard coda of ‘GAPs’; there are a number of different has to say: standards to which a grower can be audited for their food safety practices, and there are a Food Safety Begins on the Farm http://hdl. “GAP is short for ‘Good Agricultural Practices.’ Its number of different guides out there regarding handle.net/1813/2209 acronymic cousin, GHP (say ghip with a hard g), what constitutes good food safety practices. is short for ‘Good Handling Practices.’ Both are National GAPS Educational Materials at Cor- related to microbiological and physical food safety So, GAP is basically shorthand for saying, ‘farming nell www.gaps.cornell.edu/educationalmateri- in fresh vegetable production. practices that reduce the risk of microbiological als.html contamination of fresh produce.’ Or, according In California and Arizona, it is most common for to Wikipedia, ‘Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) USDA Good Agricultural Practices & Good vegetables to be produced by one company and are specific methods which, when applied to Handling Practices Audit Verification Check- sold–sometimes in the field–to another company agriculture, create food for consumers or further for the kinds of washing and packing activities that processing that is safe and wholesome. While are list www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/getfile?dDoc smaller farms handle internally. numerous competing definitions of what methods Name=STELPRDC5091326 constitute ‘Good Agricultural Practices’ there are The USDA-AMS offers a ‘GAP/GHPs’ audit. So do several broadly accepted schemes that producers Rick Kersbergen is Professor of Sustainable a number of private companies. But at this time, can adhere to.’” Dairy and Forage Systems, University of Maine Extension. www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 11 NEW FARMER CORNER The National Young Farmers’ Coalition By Lindsay Rebhan The New Farmer Corner highlights issues of particular interest to those new to farming, no matter what age. If you have an idea for an article, contact Lindsay at [email protected]. See the New Organic Stewards webpage www.neworganicstewards.org. Beginning and/or young farmers tary veteran farmers. Call your in the Midwest can not only look to congressman today to support the the New Organic Stewards and lo- Casey-Harkins-Johanns SA-986 cal nonprofits for activities and re- amendment!” sources, but will also gain from be- ing involved in national new and/or NYFC believes permanent land young farmers’ groups. access is essential to the long-term health of farm businesses, and is The National Young Farmers’ Co- working to ensure affordable land alition (NYFC) is a national net- for all young farmers. An example work of young farmers, ranchers, strategy of this is The Farm and and supporters fighting to create Ranchlands Protection Program opportunity for young people in sus- (FRPP), which provides match- tainable agriculture in the United ing funds to help purchase devel- States. Today’s beginning farmers opment rights to keep productive struggle with daunting barriers to farm and ranchland in agricultur- NYFC members met at the 2013 Conneticut Northeast entry, including access to land and Organic Farming Association Conference. al uses. Sophie explains “We’re ad- credit, lack of health insurance vocating that the FRPP prioritize coverage, and often tens of thousands of dollars to stay informed and take action. Announce- funding to conservation easements that ensure in student loan debt. NYFC is uniting young ments include when experts join the Farmer affordability in their terms. We’re also working farmers across the country to tackle these bar- Forum and when Google Hangouts on impor- to ensure the Conservation Reserve Program riers through resource sharing, organizing to tant topics are hosted. The first hangout on ap- Transition Option to Beginning or Socially solve local challenges through chapter groups, prenticeship legality issues is currently up on Disadvantaged Farmers receives funding so and advocating together for farm policy that the website and on Google+. conservation lands can stay in the hands of reflects the farm future we need. farmers.” In 2011, NYFC wrote a report on the cur- Lindsey Lusher Shute, farmer, founder and rent realities of beginning farmers, based on NYFC has been hard at work to pass a Farm leader of The National Young Farmers’ Coali- a survey of over 1000 young farmers nation- Bill that supports the next generation of Amer- tion, gave a TED talk earlier this year called wide. Access to capital, land and health care ican farmers. They co-wrote with the National ‘Building a Future with Farm- were the top challenges fac- Sustainable Agriculture Coalition the Begin- ers.’ In 15 minutes it gives a con- ing the beginning farmers. In ning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act “TED” is a nonprofit edu- cise insight into how the U.S. has the survey, apprenticeships, (BFROA) whose provisions, if included in the cational institution devoted moved away from family farm- local partnerships and CSA farm bill, would protect beginning farmer to “Ideas Worth Spreading.” ing, and how the next generation models were among the top training programs, increase access to credit, Started in 1984 as a confer- of sustainable farmers are criti- strategies that helped begin- and ensure conserved land is affordable to ence bringing together people cal for a healthy future for our ning farmers. Sophie reports farmers. The BFROA was introduced into the from three worlds: Technol- food, farms and communities. that “Access to credit is one House and Senate with bi-partisan support. ogy, Entertainment, Design, Lindsey speaks to the positive of the major obstacles farm- NYFC’s call for support resulted in 17 co-spon- TED is most accessible health, economic and environ- ers face. Current commercial sors of the bill. During the bill mark-up in May though its website archive mental benefits sustainable di- and federal loans do not meet the House and Senate Ag committees debated of 1,400+ incredibly diverse versified organic farmers produce the needs of beginning, small several amendments from the Act, but none talks presented through vid- and calls for a million new farm- and diversified farmers. An have yet passed. eos shorter than 18 minutes. ers in the U.S. You can find it at amendment we’re advocating www.ted.com/talks http://tedxtalks.ted.com/video/ for in the Farm Bill authoriz- Farm bill debates moved quickly this June. Building-a-Future-with-Farmers es a new simplified microloan The Senate version of the Farm Bill passed, category within the Farm but the House version (which would have fully You might have met Sophie Ackoff, NYFC’s Service Agency’s direct operating loan pro- funded the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Membership and Development Coordinator, gram, to make small farm loans up to $35,000 at this past year’s MOSES Conference. Sophie with specific terms for beginning and mili- To Young Farmers on page 13 recommends that new farmers explore the NYFC website, www.youngfarmers.org, filled with resources for young and beginning farm- ers. “Be sure to check out our “Resources” sec- tion for directories on training opportunities, land and job opportunities, information on fed- eral programs and how to contact USDA, your extension, and more,” she explains. NYFC’s blog (youngfarmers.org/blog) will keep you in- formed on all the facets of the young farmer movement and what’s happening in Washing- ton D.C.

Sophie is excited about a new feature, the tiny but mighty Farmer Forum: “We’re creating a national con- popcorn 2012 Program Recipient versation among America’s young farmers- and Shellsburg, IA we want you to join! Do you have questions on tools, seeds and breeds, farm life, land, jobs, policy, etc.? Join the conversation at the NYFC

Farmer Forum - youngfarmers.org/forum.” our local producer loan program is one more way Whole Foods Market supports local food communities. Learn more and apply online at She also encourages new and beginning farm- wholefoodsmarket.com ers to sign up for NYFC’s e-mail newsletters 12 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 Young Farmers... from page 12 Development Program) failed to pass with a New Farmer Spotlight: vote of 195-234 on Friday, June 20th. Although the future of the Farm Bill is uncertain (with Hannah Breckbill, Humble Hands Harvest the possibility of another extension), we will By Lindsay Rebhan continue to have young farmer meetings with key Representatives to cultivate young farmer champions in the House and Senate. Check out Hannah Breckbill of Humble Hands Harvest Wes Hannah’s blog post about the Farm Bill on is proving that where there’s a will there’s a NYFC’s blog (youngfarmers.org/blog) and call way. This is Hannah’s first season of produc- your Senator and Representative today to sup- tion for her farm, located in Elgin, Minn. Ac- port a farm bill that supports beginning farm- cording to Hannah, “There are still a lot of ers! unknowns, but I am devoting myself full-time to this enterprise.” She is growing two acres of vegetables on land rented from Hidden Stream Farm.

Hidden Stream Farm is a meat operation, pro- ducing cattle, pigs, broilers, and sheep, with well-developed marketing channels. For the past few years, the farmers have been buying local produce to distribute along with their meat to restaurants, groceries, and food-ser- vice places in Rochester, Minn. and the Twin Cities. They advertised through the Land Hannah Breckbill is off to a good start Stewardship Project for someone to rent land at Humble Hands Harvest. from them and sell vegetables to them for distribution though their markets. Hannah I won’t have to spend any time marketing my explained, “I was in a place when I saw their produce. I send one weekly e-mail stating what advertisement that I was ready to move into I have available–that’s a huge time-saver and The NYFC Board is an active and dedicated group. farming on my own, and I didn’t mind moving one of the things that will allow me to grow 2 to Minnesota to do it!” acres of vegetables fairly intensively.” As NYFC’s Membership and Development Co- ordinator, Sophie Ackoff highlights the impor- Hannah graduated from college with a degree “In terms of future plans: this spring I’ve been tance of local community building to support in math in 2009, and promptly started a farm thinking hard about land ownership. I am not and grow more farmers. NYFC is a coalition internship managing a CSA in Texas. After ready to take that step on my own because of local chapters building community and win- a year a connection at Seed Savers Exchange I have next to nothing in the way of capital. ning local change in regions across the U.S. brought her to Decorah, Iowa where she spent However, I’d really like to work on a more pe- Sophie notes, “Our goal is ambitious: to create 2-1/2 seasons employed on vegetable farms with rennial system than rented land allows–plant- multiple young farmer chapters in every state various scales and markets. Hannah highly ing trees, for example, and making long-term of the U.S. so that all young farmers have ac- recommends employment on vegetable farms improvements to water systems. I also know cess to a supportive community of their peers.” for any aspiring farmer. “Organic-minded folks that I would rather not live alone, and that I Chapter members come together to share are so eager to teach and advise aspiring farm- would rather live on the land that I’m farm- meals, opportunities and strategies for over- ers,” she said. “After committing to this new ing. This means that I’m on the lookout for coming obstacles in markets, supply chains, business, I received so much help in the form fellow farmers, or land-based entrepreneurs, and land access. From Oregon to Kansas to of labor, material aid, and advice–I absolutely with whom I could build a community. For now, New York, NYFC has 13 official chapters and a couldn’t do it without the community I’ve built though, I’m excited to have a few years experi- dozen more in development. Check out the “Or- around farming.” menting with Humble Hands Harvest, honing ganize” section of youngfarmers.org to get in my growing skills, building connections in the touch. Email [email protected] to Humble Hands Harvest has an arrangement area, and hopefully earning enough money to get a copy of the NYFC organizing handbook with Hidden Stream Farm that gives access to pay myself for my work!” that explains chapter organizing in depth. one of their 2-acre paddocks, large equipment if needed (she used their big tractor to do the You can connect with and follow Humble Sophie concludes “To grow our coalition in the original tillage and seeding of some cover crops Hands Harvest on Facebook. Hannah was also Midwest, we need you! We’re happy to help you in 2012), and use of the cooler in addition to the recently featured in the article, Breaking the host a first meeting or mixer, and give you all market opportunities. grass ceiling: On U.S. farms women are taking the tools you need to create a successful young the reins. (http://grist.org/food/breaking-the- farmer group in your area!” Looking at the 2013 season, Hannah ex- grass-ceiling-on-u-s-farms-women-are-taking- plained, “The season has barely started, so the-reins/) Lindsay Rebhan works with Renewing the it’s still not guaranteed, but the plan is that Countryside in partnership with MOSES on the New Organic Stewards project.

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 13 MOSES Fact Sheet: Organic and Sustainable Pest Control

The following is a selection from the MOSES NOP regulations state that these are restricted fact sheet “Organic and Sustainable Pest Con- use products —only to be used when preventa- ORGANIC FACT SHEET trol.” MOSES offers over 30 fact sheets on a di- Organic and Sustainable tive measures have failed and a documented versity of topics. To see the full selection, visit Pest Control pest problem is occurring. Producers should www.mosesorganic.org/productioninfo_fact- PESTS always call their certifier for approval before The organic and sustainable approach to pest and disease decrease dramatically given the right weather conditions. control focuses on preventative measures and the reduc- Climate determines what pests may be problems in an area sheets.html. tion of purchased inputs by utilizing a combination of cul- and weather determines when the conditions are right for using these products. This is only a small sam- tural and biological techniques that reduce the need for a potential problem. Consider this when choosing plant va- sprays or other inputs. Simply substituting a “natural” spray rieties, designing crop rotations, monitoring for pests, and for a “synthetic” one is not sustainable and not allowed un- choosing appropriate control materials. pling of the many products available to organic der the National Organic Standards. Natural and synthetic pesticides allowed under the National Organic Standards Choose crop varieties with genetic resistance to pests. Re- Plant Health—A Powerful Tool Someare actually “restricted Treatments use.” They can only be used AFTER are sistant Allowed varieties make pest management easier because it producers. Consult the NOS, OMRI and your your other control techniques have failed. can effectively prevent pests from becoming a problem. Healthy crops are the organic producer’s best Most seed catalogs will list a plant variety’s resistances. certifier for more options. EvenThe conventional with view of pest controlthe often bestfocuses on treat management,- some pest ing a pest problem once it has already occurred. Organic Crop diversity: Natural ecosystems contain a community defense against pests. Research shows that andgrowers focusdisease on preventative pest problems control techniques that areof organisms, inevitable. and through their interactions, Organic these organ- prevent or minimize pest damage—only treating when nec- isms create a balance. This natural balance is the reason essary. Therefore, organic growers take a holistic approach that severe pest outbreaks are rare in the natural world. The soil fertility and the nutrient composition of farmersto pest management. areThis approach limited is concerned with theto naturalnatural balance is interrupted products, in an agricultural monocul and- Biological Controls entire system and the interactions between the components ture. The response of the ecosystem is to send in insects and that make up that system. These methods can potentially weeds to try to restore balance—it is unnatural for a plant to the plant are related to pest and disease occur- areduce few dependence synthetics on off farm inputs and improve allowed the bot- grow in undermonoculture. the National Biological controls can reduce or eliminate tom line. rence. Insects and diseases are nature’s clean- Organic Standards (NOS).If we encourage Organic pest predation by including growers strips of natu- pest problems. An example is the release of Factors Affecting Pests ral vegetation between fields, we can let the ecosystem do To develop a holistic pest management system, we need to some of the pest control work. By keeping field sizes small- up crew; stressed plants are more susceptible to shoulddetermine what factorsconsult on the farm affect the pest pressure: NOS er, byto growing view a variety of thiscrops and bylist. intercropping, The you beneficial insects which prey upon or parasit- • Climate, weather and the crops grown are basic factors can increase diversity. Crop rotation and cover crops also that determine what pest issues may arise. All crops diversify the cropping system. A more complex landscape pests and disease. Disease and pest outbreaks Organichave natural pests Materials that can become problematic Review if con- increases habitatInstitute for pest predators andalso parasites andlists can ize crop pests. Beneficial predatory/parasitic ditions are optimal. confuse pests, which are unable to travel easily between • Crop diversity: The diversity of crops grown within a and within fields. Smaller field sizes (even 50 acres versus are often symptoms of an underlying problem. approved,year has important implicationsrestricted on how easily pestsand 100) increaseprohibited the mobility of pest predators products. within the crop, insects include aphid midges, lady beetles, move and reproduce among fields. Crop rotation (di- while disease pressure is often reduced as well. Rather than treating the symptoms, the cause Thisversity overlist time), can also strongly be influences found pest distri - online at www.omri.org. lacewings and Trichogramma wasps, which bution. Plant Health—A Powerful Tool • Native biodiversity in non-cropped areas provides habi- Healthy crops are the organic producer’s best defense of the outbreak must be addressed. Problems It shouldtat for pest predators be and parasitesnoted which helpthat control companiesagainst pests. Research shows manufactur that soil fertility and the nu- - are parasites of several insect pests. Other crop pests. trient composition of the plant are related to pest and dis- • Soil fertility is a factor in enhancing crop resistance to ease occurrence. Insects and diseases are nature’s clean-up will continue if a farmer simply chases the pest ingpests. the products on the OMRIcrew; stressed plants list are more submit susceptible to pests their and dis- insects are available. Beneficial insects must ease. Disease and pest outbreaks are often symptoms of an Climate and weather influence pest pressure because they underlying problem. Rather than treating the symptoms, or disease with new and different “-cides.” productsdetermine the crops thatvoluntarily, can be grown in a region, andso thejust cause of thebecause outbreak must be addressed. a product Problems will be replenished at certain intervals, but offer therefore the associated pests that become issues. Farm- continue if a farmer simply chases the pest or disease with isers neednot to know on the life cyclesthe of the list pests specific does to their notnew and differentmean “-cides.” it is not ap- good control in many situations. Farmers can area. Weather influences immediate pest pressures. Many bacterial and fungal diseases need prolonged periods of Insects are attracted to plants mainly based on chemical Insects are attracted to plants mainly based proved.wetness and high humidity.Organic Insect pressure growers can increase or “odors” should from the plant. always Unhealthy, stressed consult or diseased buy predators and parasites, but to keep them Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES) | PO BOX 339, Spring Valley, WI on chemical “odors” from the plant. Unhealthy, their certifierp. 715-778-5775 | [email protected] applying | www.mosesorganic.org a new prod- must provide habitat and a source of food for stressed or diseased plants produce different uct. A certifier can also complete a review of a them and/or their larvae. Natural areas and odors and signals than healthy ones. These new product if needed. pollinator strips help encourage these insects “stress” odors result from the differing nutri- to stay. Arbico-Organics and Planet Natural ent concentrations within the plant. Conven- Some approved products are relatively expen- are two of several companies that sell benefi- tional fertilizers can, at times, lead to an im- sive and therefore are most often used in high cial insects. There are also nematodes, viruses balance in nutrition, because these fertilizers value crops. Examples of organic insecticides and bacteria that can be used as biological con- are easily absorbed by the plant in excess. This include: trols. Be aware that most organically approved can lead to a metabolic bottleneck where excess • Pyrethrum (pyrethrin), naturally occurring pesticides will kill beneficial insects along with simple sugars and free amino acids (simple in some species of Chrysanthemum. Pyre- pests. Use them with discretion and maintain non-protein nitrogen compounds) accumulate thrum is effective as a broad-spectrum insec- unsprayed natural areas where the beneficial in the plant. These accumulated compounds ticide and is sold as a powder and mixed with in sects can remain protected. (and their associated odors) are highly attrac- oil—sold commercially as Pyganic®. Do not tive to many crops pests because they are eas- confuse pyrethrum or pyrethrin (natural and Conclusion ily digestible. allowed) with permethrin (synthetic and pro- Farmers will never be completely free from pest hibited). Pyrethrum is frequently mixed with problems. Even when crops are healthy and di- Excess nitrogen fertilization is correlated with pipernyl butoxide, which is prohibited. Always verse, pests and diseases will occur when con- increased aphid populations, and research check the label. ditions are optimal. If farmers use some simple shows that European Corn-Borer prefers to • Neem oil (extracted from a tree common in techniques; providing natural vegetation for lay its eggs on plants fertilized with soluble Africa and India). beneficial insect habitat, expanding crop rota- synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, as opposed to • Spinosad is derived from bacteria and kills tions, growing a diversity of crops, and provid- those fertilized with organic materials. Simple insects when eaten and is effective against ing balanced fertility through organic sources, plant sugars are important building blocks of beetles. pest problems can be prevented or minimized. many plant compounds and high sugar content • Diatomaceous earth is inexpensive and can After the initial transition period, and after is only a problem when the plant is unable to work on crawling pests such as insect larva and incorporating these pest management tech- convert the sugars because of a nutrient imbal- caterpillars. It kills insects by physical contact. niques, many organic growers report reduced ance. A diversity of organic inputs will provide • Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, is a bacterium pest control costs while maintaining compara- the entire spectrum of nutrients necessary for that kills caterpillars and some insect larvae ble yields. Organic agriculture is about balance healthy crops in the correct amounts. Properly such as Colorado potato beetles. and a whole-farm approach to food product fertilized crops can maximize photosynthesis • Sulfur and copper are allowed for use as fun- and sugar production, while making all the gicide. Sulfur is often mixed with lime to in- secondary compounds that are necessary to crease effectiveness. minimize pest problems.

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Contact us with your current availability and ™ contracti ng interest for food grade NATURAL ORGANIC PRODUCTS • Soybeans • Peas & Lenti ls AND • Dry Beans • Mustard • Wheat • Barley • Millet • Buckwheat • Sunflowers • Corn • Safflower • Flaxseed SOFT COLLOIDAL PHOSPHATE  High premiums paid.  Spot sale or forward growing contracts offered. CANTON MILLS, INC.  Shipping and storage options available. P.O. Box 97 Minnesota City, MN 55959 Thank you for “growing with us” for more than 20 years. 4666 Amber Valley Parkway • Fargo, ND 58104 USA www.cantonmills.com 701.356.4106 TEL • [email protected] • www.skfood.com Grow with us! 1-800-328-5349 14 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 Tried and True Methods - Organic Field Days Row Crop Success at Johnson Farms 2013 by Harriet Behar Organic Row Crops Johnson Farms, Madison, S.D. • Free It seems there are no “normal” weather pat- shade out the weeds on their own is an impor- Thursday, July 25, 8:30–2 terns anymore. This year’s cold and wet tant strategy for this farm. Charlie Johnson, MOSES Farmer of the Year, shows spring has offered a different set of challenges us his farm’s systems for rotation and cultivation that than last year’s early spring and subsequent The Johnsons use an Einbock tine weeder produce clean fields and good yields. drought. Riding the weather roller coaster just before the corn emerges to deal with early and producing good crops using time-honored small weeds. Owning four cultivators and four In Her Boots: Sustainable organic farming methods is a true sign of a rotary hoes, they can cover a lot of acres–impor- Agriculture for Women, By Women successful farmer. MOSES tant since the first cutting of Canoe Creek Produce, Decorah, Iowa • $35* invites you to observe and alfalfa is typically ready at Sunday, Aug. 4, 10–4 learn from some of the best the same time the row crops Discuss diversification and beginning farm challenges and resources with a panel of farmers, at an organic farm field day need attention. Juggling pri- members of Food Corps and staff from MOSES. at the Johnson Farm near orities is an important part Madison, South Dakota, of the planning process, In Her Boots: Sustainable on July 25, 2013. Charlie and will be discussed by the Agriculture for Women, By Women Johnson was the recipient Johnson family members at Dancing Winds Farm, Kenyon, Minn. • $35* of the 2013 MOSES Organic the field day. Thursday, Aug. 8, 10–4 Farmer of the Year award. Learn about farming as a single woman, starting A new equipment shop is be- farms mid-life, land access and financing, cheese- Charlie, his brother, and a ing built this summer, which making, raising goats, farmstays, and more! cousin manage 2800 acres, field day attendees will have using a “strong and secure” a chance to see during our Organic Dairy Buck Farm, Goodhue, Minn. • Free rotation of 3 years of alfalfa tour. Keeping equipment Wednesday, Aug. 14, TBD and 3 years of row crops. The weather was right for field-ready is important, planting on June 4th. Gather ideas to make your dairy more profitable. Growing a diversity of row since timing is everything Speakers include veterinarians, feed experts, and a crops without chemicals in organic weed control. We panel of experienced organic dairy farmers. takes work, but with a good plan and rotation, will also discuss the beef cattle herd, and how can be accomplished consistently every year. diversification provides a variety of fertility In Her Boots: Sustainable and economic benefits. Agriculture for Women, By Women The Johnsons strongly believe in green ma- Scotch Hill Farm, Brodhead, Wis. • $35* nures. They plant an early crop of oats in the Attendees to the field day will meet at St. Pe- Sunday, Aug. 18, 10–4 Learn from women who run CSA operations through spring to till in before soybeans in rotation, ter’s Lutheran Church at 8:30 a.m. for a few the Fair Share Coalition. and plant rye in the fall to till in before the short presentations by the organizations spon- following year’s corn crop. The continual incor- soring this event: Northern Plains Sustainable Grass-fed Beef, Crops & Poultry poration of green manures, even during row Agriculture Society, Dakota Rural Action and Sandy Ridge Farm, Tampico, Ill • $30 crop years, builds organic matter and stimu- MOSES. Representatives from the Natural Re- Tuesday, Aug. 27, 8–4:30 lates soil biology. This gives the soil a “choco- sources Conservation Service also will be pres- Tour 1,200+ acres of certified organic crops plus late cake” texture: crumbly, porous and fertile. ent to discuss their programs and the Johnsons 15,000-hen poultry and 140-head grass-fed beef Even with last year’s drought the excellent soil participation in the Conservation Stewardship operations. Gearld Fry, reknowned expert in cattle tilth on the Johnson Farm resulted in the best Program (CSP). The group will then board a genetics, leads the pasture walk. oat crop they have ever had, planted as the tour bus and visit a number of the Johnsons’ nurse crop to start their alfalfa rotation. organic fields as well as the home farm. Char- Decades of Research & Improvements Rosmann Family Farm, Harlan, Iowa • Free lie will have photos to share of the growing Friday, Sept. 6, 1–4 The green manure oats were planted this year green manure crops from earlier in the season. The Rosmann family discusses results of various on May 18 and tilled in the last week of May, research trials on their certified organic farm. with the thick green oat mat incorporated us- At noon, the bus will return to the church for ing a field cultivator dragging a harrow. The a midday meal and discussion of organic com- Soil Sisters: Farm Tour field was planted to soybeans a few days later. modity crop marketing with National Farmers South Central Wisconsin • Free A rotary hoe will be used next, and then an Organization representatives. The meal is free Sunday, Sept. 8, 11–4 8-row vibrashank cultivator with shields as if you register with MOSES by July 19, other- Experience the bounty produced on small family soon as Charlie can see the soybean rows. He wise the cost of the meal is $15 per person at farms run by women committed to a healthy future. may rotary hoe the field a second time, either the door. Registration is strongly encouraged. Harvesting Energy: Wind & Solar before or within 48 hours after the first cultiva- Visit the MOSES website www.mosesorganic. Radiance Dairy, Fairfield, Iowa • Free tion to get the really small weeds before they org/FieldDayRowCrops.html or contact the Saturday, Sept. 14, 2–5 get a foothold. This attention to weed control MOSES office at 715-778-5775 for more infor- See how the 2012 MOSES Organic Farmers of the in the rows before the plants are big enough to mation or to register. Year, Francis and Susan Thicke, put alternative energy to work on their farm.

Transitioning to Organic Gardens of Eagan, Northfield, Minn. • Free Sunday, Sept. 15, 1–5 MOSES New Organic Stewards partners with Gar- Nominate an inspiring farmer dens of Eagan and Organic Field School to explain for MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year! the transition process for a certified organic farm. Vegetable Diversification PrairiErth Farm, Bloomington, Ill. • Free We’re taking nominations now for the Monday, Sept. 16, 12:30–4:30 2014 MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year award — See how to diversify your vegetable operation with presented at the MOSES Organic Farming Conference small-scale livestock, value-added products and Feb. 27-Mar. 1, 2014 in La Crosse, Wis. more, while marketing directly to consumers.

Nominees must be certified organic and farm in the Midwest. * Price is $35, but two weeks before event it becomes $50. Price includes lunch. Find the nomination form at www.mosesorganic.org, or call 715-778-5775 to request a form by email or mail. To register or get details, Charlie Johnson, 2013 call 715-778-5775 or visit Nominations are due by Sept. 15, 2013. MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year www.mosesorganic.org.

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 15 Sprouted Barley... from page 1 is most cost-effective of all the grains tried. quencies needed for optimal plant growth. “You To work well for sprouted fodder, the barley don’t need full-spectrum lighting in sprouting During Australia’s severe droughts, barely seed needs a high germination rate and must systems,” said Jim Kern from Fodder Feeds. fodder provides valuable nutrition when fresh be very clean. Some companies recommend “LEDs can produce only the frequencies need- pasture is not available. Here in the U.S., the mixing seeds–a favorite of Fodder Feeds is 2 ed to sprout the plants.” sprouted barley fodder is often brought into the pounds of barley and 2 ounces of sunflower ration to replace protein previously supplied by seeds, which yields 20 pounds (on average, a Racking the sprouting system vertically is the dry grain. Of course, it is also beneficial in the 10:1 ratio) when sprouted in their system. most efficient use of space. Nearly all the sys- non-pasture season to bring fresh forage to the tems being sold are racked and then set up with animals. A general rule of thumb is a yield of 1:7–one sprouting trays to hold the seed. In fully auto- pound of barley seed will produce seven pounds mated systems, water emitters either spray or Nutritional Benefits of sprouted fodder. flood the trays on a regular basis. The trays The main benefit of sprouted fodder in com- must have a drainage system. Seeds need to parison to feeding grain is “improved pro- Systems for Sprouting Barley be kept moist, but they cannot sit in water, or tein, starch and sugar” (CROPP Cooperative’s To sprout barley consistently and economically, mold and bacteria will become problems. “Sprouted Dairy Fodder” Technical Bulletin you need a climate-controlled space, lighting of #10 by Dr. Sylvia Abel-Caines). Nearly all of sufficient brightness (lumens), a soaking vat, a the starch present in the grain is converted to rack and tray system and a watering system. sugar by sprouting, which is better utilized by the rumen than the dry grain. This reduces A sprouting facility must be sized according acidosis problems, as the rumen pH stays more to the total pounds of sprouted fodder needed stable without the constant input of starch. per day. Dairy cattle will each need 20-40 lbs of fodder per day, depending upon the amount “Mineral and vitamin levels in hydroponically- of roughage fed. Available systems are sized sprouted barley are significantly increased over from four-animal units (these are portable) those in grain; in addition, they are absorbed all the way up to permanent systems designed more efficiently due to feed thousands of to the lack of enzyme animals. It is highly inhibitors in sprout- recommended that ed grain. Sprouts you work with a spe- provide a good sup- cialist from one of the ply of vitamins A, sprouted fodder com- E, C and B complex. panies to design an The vitamin content appropriately sized of some seeds can system for your op- increase by up to 20 eration. times their original Mervin Johnson uses fluorescent lighting, racking and value within several All systems, regard- fans in his sprouting room. (Photo by Jody Padgham) days of sprouting.” less of size, must be (“Sprouted Barley insulated and cli- How the Process Works Fodder” Technical mate controlled. The The barley seed must be very clean and have Bulletin) ideal temperature is a high germination rate. Dirty seed will have 70 degrees F, with mold problems and require a lot of labor time Jim Kern of Fodder Barley sprouting systems can be portable, humidity held high in cleaning both seed and equipment. Low ger- such as this six-animal unit with LEDs from Feeds pointed out Fodder Feeds. (Photo by Fodder Feeds) and constant, but not mination rates will decrease the efficiency of that “when a cow too high that mold the system. eats fresh sprouted fodder, it is eating diges- becomes an issue. Air movement is necessary tive enzymes that are not present in dry hay or to control mold, so many systems incorporate Clean grain must be soaked 8 to 12 hours. Hy- in grain. It is highly digestible and nutritious.” fans or air handling systems. drogen peroxide or bleach is sometimes used in the soaking water to kill mold spores (al- There is very little dry matter in sprouted Choosing the right light, and the right amount lowed in organic systems) and the soak water barley fodder (17%). Thus, a farmer feeding it of light, is very important to the success of a is sometimes aerated. must also provide dry hay, but the hay does not sprouted barley system. Optimal production have to be of highest quality. requires 18 hours of light and 6 hours of dark- After soaking, the grain is drained and spread ness. Low-light levels and shorter day lengths onto trays. Temperatures should be kept be- Why Barley and Not Other Small Grains? will slow the process and reduce production. tween 60 and 75 degrees F, with 70 degrees Barley is the most nutritious of the small Fluorescent and LED lighting are the most ideal. The grain must be kept moist to sprout. grains, stores well and is easy to grow. Feed cost-effective options. Fodder Feeds, one of the Manual systems are sprayed down every 4-8 Your Farm, one of the companies supplying new companies building systems in the Mid- hours, and automated systems either spray sprouting systems, has experimented exten- west, relies strictly on LED lighting, which or flood irrigate on a timed system. Seventy sively with wheat and oats, but has found that while more expensive upfront, is the most en- percent humidity is the target in the growing barley sprouts the best, grows the fastest and ergy efficient and can generate the specific fre- room.

To Sprouted Barley on page 17

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16 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 Sprouted Barley... from page 16 Fodder Feeds has also done some The sprouted barley is harvested between six economic analysis. At conventional and eight days of growth. Nutrition will be lost pricing, it costs between $8 and $10 but weight gained by days seven and eight. At per day to feed a Holstein cow on harvest, the barley shoots will be about six a standard grain/forage diet. Jim inches tall with a two inch mat of interwoven Kern reported that it costs about roots. The sprouted grain is harvested by re- $0.80 to produce 1 Animal Unit, or moving the tray or sliding the mat off the tray 20 pounds, of fodder (conventional in one long sheet. The mats can be cut to the prices) using a fodder feed system. appropriate size and fed to cattle. By starting This includes the grain at 15 dol- new grain every day, the system can constant- lars a bushel, sunflower seeds, and ly provide fresh fodder. electricity. This will make up 70% of the animal’s feed intake and all How is it Working in Real Life? of the nutrition. A lactating dairy On May 23rd, 2013, Mervin Johnson and his cow needs 2 animal units to pro- family of Barron County, Wis. hosted a pasture duce milk, plus fiber such as straw. walk to highlight their organic dairy and to demonstrate their new sprouted barley fodder The racks of the Feed Your Farm system hold 7 days of barley Other companies estimate the cost system. The Johnsons milk 75 cows and have sprouts at the Johnson Farm. (Photo by Jody Padgham) at $60 to $100 per ton of sprouts. been organic for 10 years. At the beginning of stead feeds 20 pounds of barley fodder per cow Even at organic prices for barley, there is a po- 2013, they installed a sprouted barley system and dry hay. He is currently getting 6 pounds of tential reduction in feed costs. Fodder Feeds into a converted garage capable of producing sprouts from one pound of barley seed. Mervin has 100 systems up and running with many 1500 pounds of sprouted is feeding less hay per day new systems under construction, including an barley per day for their and purchasing less grain Organic Valley producer in Minnesota who is herd. with the new system, so it putting in a fully automated system in 2013. does appear to be saving With this rapid expansion, more economic data Motivated by the very money, but he says he needs will be available in the near future. high cost of organic feed, one more year to determine the Johnsons looked at if the system will pay itself Educational Resources: alternatives. Intrigued off. Mervin is happy so far Graze Magazine article, January 2013 by sprouted fodder, they with the milk production www.grazeonline.com/fodderinterest worked with organic and his cows’ health. dairy farmer Andrew “Sprouted Barley Fodder” Dr. Silvia Abel- Dykstra of Washington Sprouted barely does take Caines www.wodpa.org/newsletters/2013/ State who has been us- more labor, however. Every WODPA_Winter_2013_VIEWING[6].pdf ing sprouted barley fod- day Mervin and his fam- NODPA Featured Farm Series “Dykstra der on his own organic ily spend 10 minutes har- Farms”: www.nodpa.com/ff_may_2013.shtml farm and is now a sales vesting fodder, 40 minutes representative with washing trays, 20 minutes Lancaster Farming: www.lancasterfarming. Feed Your Farm, to de- seeding trays, 20 minutes com/-Dairymen-Developing-Fondness-for- sign a system for them. cleaning the room, 50 min- Sprouted-Fodder- utes cleaning the barley Harvested barley sprouts can be fed in mats Sprouted Fodder Systems: Although the system seed (the last batch was or cut into pieces. (Photo by Jody Padgham) Fodder Feeds: fodderfeeds.com/Home.htm is designed to produce very dirty) and another 40 541-325-3377 1500 pounds per day, in reality they have been minutes tending the wood stove they use to getting 1200 to 1300 pounds. Mervin thinks heat the room. Feed Your Farm: www.feedyourfarm.com this may be due to the variety of barley they 360-661-4302 were able to purchase locally. Prior to using Andrew Dykstra has been feeding his 240 sprouted fodder, Mervin was feeding 10 lbs of cow herd 17 lbs of sprouts per day instead of Fodder Tech: www.foddertech.com grain per cow. Now he feeds no grain but in- the 15 lbs of grain he was feeding last year. 855-977-7688 He reported an increase in his milk check Fodder Solutions: www.foddersolutions.net and a reduction in feed costs since switching 530-615-1533 to sprouted barely fodder. In a recent news- letter profile for NODPA, he cited an overall FarmTek: www.farmtek.com/farm/supplies/ 64% reduction in concentrate expenses since cat1a;ft_fodder_systems.html switching to sprouts. He does add that farm- ers will see about a 20% increase in electricity Joe Pedretti ([email protected]) is the use due to fans, lights and heating. The John- MOSES Organic Education Specialist. sons reported that switching from electric to DON’T FEEL GUILTY IF wood heat has worked well and helped to cut YOU WANT MORE. the electric bill for their system.

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www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 17 Who Owns Organic? Organic Processing Industry Structure Created by Phil Howard, Associate Professor at Michigan State University

Orchard May 2013 Organic Industry Bloomfield Lovin John B. Valley Snyder's- Plum Bakers Oven Ralcorp Harvest Structure: Organics March 2007 #25 $140 M SanÞlippo Lance (private label May 2010 Acquisitions & Alliances, Late July May 2013 Bolthouse & Son $29.5 M Humboldt #61 Farms organic foods) Top 100 Food Processors in December 2007 #98 Creamery minority stake Wolfgang North America July 2012 November Foster Puck 2012 $1.55 B Seeds of August 2009 $6.8 B Lightlife July Change Farms $19.5 M 2008 LaraBar #46 May 2011 Dagoba 1997 July Coleman 2000 June 2008 Food Should Taste Good Natural October February 2012 August 2003 Perdue 2006 Campbell ConAgra M&M #14 Farms Soup Co. General December Naturally Hans August #27 #30 Mars Mills 1999 Fresh 2007 #10 March 2012 Hershey #8 $25 M January Draper July 2007 Cascadian 2002 Foods TreeHouse Valley Farms Alexia Farm #20 Foods December 2009 Petaluma/ Foods March #50 $660 M Rosie 1998 Sturm Boca Foods Frutti di Millina's Ella's Foods Earth's Best Muir Glen Bosco Finest Kitchen September 1999 February 2000 May Nile Spice June 2001 2013 From Heinz Tea Forte Mondelez Erewhon Walnut BluePrint December 1998 French July Back to (spinoff from 2006 New Acres Meadow Nature #4 Kraft in November January 2012 September 2003 Morning June 2012 Rich 100% Equity; 2012) October 2001 Spectrum 2003 December 2012 August 2012 Mountain Organics Products JAB/D.E. majority stake sold Sun ShariAnn's August Garden of May 2002, alliance to develop to Brynwood January 2010 2005 nutritionally enhanced ingredients Corp. Master Partners $33 M Eatin' DeBole's #42 Post Green & March Arrowhead Blenders Black's MaraNatha SunSpire 2008 Hain Foods (formerly #28 April 1998 Mills $80 M (spinoff from #25 Sara Lee) Celestial June 2007 Ralcorp in 2012) White #82 August 2003, alliance to develop From Dean May 2002 nutritionally enhanced ingredients Peace August 2012 Wave/Silk Cargill Golden $189 M Cereal $1 B TofuTown October #15 May 2013 May 2013 April 1999 Temple 1997 $158 M Peet's Spinoff, 0% Equity $80 M Willamette $23.5 M Valley Coffee & Westbrae Breadshop Health Valley Dean March 2000 Granola Tea May 1999 Alta Dena #7 Bearitos Westsoy $390 M December Casbah Hearthside 2002 May 2010 June 2010; joint marketing Foods Little Bear Celestial $71 M Imagine/Rice agreement Seasonings Dream/Soy (cereal Horizon July 1998 13% Equity; Dream December division) Hillshire January 2004 2010 Dakota #89 April 1999 Meyer Natural 100% Equity Beef Brands $216 M Foods (formerly #28 The Organic Cow of Kellogg Sara Lee) November 2009, Vermont Bear November #12 Nestle Pepsi 2007 Stonyfield StonyÞeld #3 Coca-Cola Naked $122 M brand licensed May 2011 #1 to CROPP #11 October 2001 $87 M for ßuid milk CROPP Wholesome 40% Equity; May & Hearty January 2004 (Organic Aidell's June 85% Equity 2011 September 2008 2000 November 1999 Valley) Sausage $57M November 2006 Danone Sweet February 2008 October $307 M February #93 via Israeli subsidiary 40% Equity 2003 Leaf Tea Osem Group 2001 Naked (Dannon) $43 M; $181 M Kashi May 2013 (50.1% Equity) March 2011 Juice Morningstar Brown #66 Farms/Natural 92% Equity Tribe 100% Equity Cow Touch Happy Miller- Mediterranean Honest February Odwalla Family 2012 Coors Foods Tea #17 AB InBev Millstone Food Processors Crispin #5 November 2008 #

January March 2011 J&J Snack 2010 Maple $38.8 M J.M. Diamond Canada July Foods Organic Fox Leaf 2002 Goose Smucker #92 Brand Barrel Foods February 2010 Bread Co. #23 Acquisitions $615 M Island #88 Foods #63 1984 1989 Olafson's June 2012 #24 $7.9 M # Numbers refer to Baking Co. rank in North American Kettle Santa Cruz R.W. Kim & food & beverage sales 90% Equity Organic Phil Howard, Associate Professor Knudsen Scott's according to Food Processing, Michigan State University August 2012

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18 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 Apprenticeship... from page 4 Effective Matches are Key Livestock Farmers (WSBDF) at UW-Madison Key to positive outcomes and at distance learning sites throughout Wis- of this process is the match consin. itself. To facilitate more • Classes in dairy/pasture production and viable matches, DGA management offered online and in seminar has invested significant format through the Wisconsin Technical Col- time and resources into lege System. developing a new online application and database B) Elective hours, which may include: system, which is available • Pasture walks, field days and spring work- through their website. shops. Approved Masters can log • The annual GrassWorks Grazing Confer- into the system to search ence, the MOSES Organic Farming Confer- for potential Apprentices ence and other farming conferences. seeking placement by • Educational events coordinated by support area (such as “Southeast groups in the state. WI” or “Central WI” or “Anywhere”) or by key Related instruction also incorporates peer dis- Dairy Grazing Apprentice, Andrew Votis (right), who also has a word (such as “Organic” cussion groups, a Holistic Management semi- Bachelors Degree in Environmental Science, checks pastures or “Herdsman”). They can nar and professional development training with Master Dairy Grazier, Jim Schreiner, and his son. browse search results and through BAS-WDWD. In their second year, simply click on a promis- Apprentices develop a business plan and put also build soil and water resources, protect ing candidate to view the entire profile. Ap- together a management team comprised of lo- critical wildlife habitat, and produce value- prentice candidates are able to log back into cal professionals who will be crucial to their added milk for consumers and industry. Ap- the site to view and edit their profile to keep decision making process. Both Masters and prenticeship in “managed grazing” dairy not it current. This type of cloud-based technology Apprentices receive financial planning servic- only gives entry-level farmers the best chance improves outcomes and increases program ca- es from Cadwallader Consulting, LLC, which for profitability and success, but also positions pacity, which will result in more new farmers is working with the program to develop alter- them to sell their products for a premium un- and more new grazing farms. native models of equity building, investment der an organic or grass-fed label. and farm transfer. Because of the comprehen- Indeed, DGA is well poised to expand through- sive training and support that the program While success in managed grazing is a com- out Wisconsin—and possibly beyond. The U.S. provides its participants, DGA is an approved mon denominator, the 28 farms that have been Department of Labor’s Office of Apprentice- vendor for Farm Services Agency’s Financial approved so far as educational sites by DGA ship has officially determined “Dairy Grazier” Management Training Program. represent a wide diversity of dairy operations to be an “Apprenticeable Occupation” and DGA in the Midwest. Master Dairy Grazier farms has become the first federally recognized Ap- Grazing an Important Component range in size from 40 cows to 500 cows; nearly prenticeship for farming in the nation, one that “Managed grazing itself is one of the best pre- half are currently certified organic or in transi- could be reproduced in other states. dictors of success for start-up dairy farms,” tion to organic certification; many are seasonal according to DGA Financial Consultant, Tom operations; several have diversified operations Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship is accepting Cadwallader. “New farmers are entering the that include on-farm processing and/or a retail applications for Master Dairy Graziers and profession at a time when the industry and the store and a couple use robotic milkers. Dairy Grazing Apprentices. At this time, Mas- country face some real economic and ecologi- ter Dairy Grazier applicants must reside in cal challenges—a well-managed grazing farm “This is a program that recognizes diversity in Wisconsin or a neighboring state (several farm is extremely efficient, which will help these our industry as a strength, not a liability,” To- sites have already been approved in Minneso- farms remain profitable.” mandl said. “We are not interested in taking a ta). Apprentice applicants willing to move for cookie-cutter approach here. Every farmer has placement are welcome from anywhere in the Managed grazing is a sustainable farming a unique operation and a personal history that nation. To find out more or apply online visit method in which cattle are rotated through deserves respect and consideration. Our job is www.dairygrazingapprenticeship.org. paddocks of high quality grasses and legumes to link these experienced farmers, who have so that are allowed to rest and re-grow. Farms much to offer, with people who really want to Bridget O’Meara is the Communications Coor- that utilize managed grazing systems require farm and then provide the structure they all dinator for Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship. less fossil fuel and fewer off-farm inputs. They need to achieve their farming goals.”

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 19 NEWS BRIEFS

Long-term Iowa State Research USDA to Look at GE Crops More Closely One difference from previous years was that Shows Organic Benefits USDA announced in May that it will take a closer more colonies dwindled away, rather than suffer- Results from the Long-Term Agroecological Re- look at new genetically engineered (GE) crops ing from the onset of Colony Collapse Disorder. search (LTAR) Experiment at Iowa State Univer- before allowing them on the market. The ap- www.ars.usda.gov/is/br/beelosses/index.htm. sity have been summarized in a recent report. proval of Dow’s 2,4-D-resistant corn and soy, as The study, published in Crop Management in well as Monsanto’s dicamba-resistant soy and April showed organic plots had up to 40 per- cotton, will be put on hold until Environmental Who Owns Organic cent more biologically active soil organic matter. Impact Statements are completed. The decision Sustainable food expert Phil Howard, associate Organic soils also had lower acidity and higher to conduct a more thorough investigation comes professor at Michigan State University, has up- amounts of carbon, nitrogen, potassium, phos- after public outcry from hundreds of thousands dated his organic industry structure chart, which phorous, and calcium. www.leopold.iastate.edu/ of concerned individuals—including farmers. shows the top 100 food processors in North news/05-23-2013/soil-building-benefits-organic- More at www.panna.org America. www.msu.edu/~howardp/organicin- practices dustry.html

GMO Wheat Found Bhutan First Organic Country May 29, Unapproved genetically engineered Online Transplant Tool Available Bhutan plans to become the first country in the wheat has been discovered in an Oregon field. A new online tool provides information to grow- world to turn its agriculture completely organic, Plants were grown in the state in test plots in ers in the Upper Midwest about the methods and banning the sales of pesticides and herbicides 2001, and never approved for commercial sale. equipment available for transplant production. and relying on its own animals and farm waste It is unclear as to where the new crop has come Funded by the Leopold Center for Sustainable for fertilizers. www.guardian.co.uk/global-devel- from. Read more at www.oregonlive.com. Agriculture and developed by Chris Blanchard, opment/poverty-matters/2013/feb/11/bhutan- organic farmer and consultant at Flying Ru- first-wholly-organic-country. tabaga Works, the tool includes profiles of six Court Sides with Monsanto on vegetable farms in Minn., Wis. and Iowa, as well Patent Protection as photo galleries of infrastructure, equipment Agriculture Secretary Unveils In mid-May the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on the and crops. A one-page matrix summarizes the Organic Agriculture Vision much anticipated Monsanto v. Bowman case, costs, skill level, benefits and drawbacks of vari- U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack an- addressing whether the corporation’s patent pro- ous options for transplant equipment. The Trans- nounced a number of changes and new initia- tections extend past the initial sale and use of plant Production Decision Tool is on the Leop- tives to support the continued growth of organic their RoundUp-Ready seeds. Unfortunately the old Center website at www.leopold.iastate.edu/ agriculture, including increased crop insurance justices landed on the side of Monsanto. www. cool_tools/transplant-production-decision-tool. coverage options for organic producers. The natlawreview.com USDA will be providing new guidance and di- rection on organic production to all USDA Report on Women in Agriculture agencies.www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/ Success With GMO Labeling Laws A new ERS report summarizes women farmer usdahome?contentid=2013/05/0096.xml In early June both Connecticut and Maine made national data. Overall, male farmers are declin- history by passing GMO labeling bills requiring ing while female farmer numbers have tripled in that genetically-modified organisms (GMOs) be the last 3 decades. www.ers.usda.gov/publica- Ngouajio Becomes NPL properly labeled. The Conn. bill has an interest- tions/eib-economic-information-bulletin/eib111/ for Organic Programs ing twist–a compromise required a provision be report-summary.aspx#.UYjgVoI8yqo. Mathieu Ngouajio joins NIFA as a national pro- attached to the bill requiring that at least four gram leader working with organic programs in other states in the Northeast pass their own the Institute of Food Production and Sustainabil- GMO labeling laws before Connecticut’s can be Crop Insurance Wizard for 2014 Crop Year ity’s Division of Plant Production. His expertise enacted. One of these states must physically The National Center for Appropriate Technol- and research experience is in developing ro- touch the border of Connecticut, and the aggre- ogy (NCAT) has announced the update of its bust, resilient, and profitable cropping systems. gate population of all the states combined must Web-based whole-farm-revenue crop insur- Ngouajio can be reached at 202-401-4895 and be at least 20 million. Learn more at www.natu- ance assessment tool, known as the Adjusted [email protected]. ralnews.com/040815_GMO_labeling_Connecti- Gross Revenue (AGR)-Lite Wizard, for the 2014 cut_food_transparency.html#ixzz2XFTAL8gP. crop year. The AGR-Lite Wizard helps produc- ers determine if they are likely to be eligible for 7th Organic Seed Growers AGR-Lite insurance, estimates premium costs, Conference Proposals Requested Annual Survey Shows 31% Bee Losses and estimates what payments producers would Organic Seed Alliance invites presenter propos- The annual survey for the 2012/2013 winter receive if eligible losses were sustained. www. als for the 7th Organic Seed Growers Confer- funded by USDA showed losses of honey bee agrlitewizard.com ence, to be held Jan. 30- Feb. 1, 2014 in Corval- colonies nationwide of 31.1% from all causes. lis, Ore. www.seedalliance.org

20 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 “In Nature there is abundance, With Nature there is success”

EWS ES Now serving N all of your ORGANIC CERTIFICATION needs! Recently Published eOrganic Articles Current and Future Prospects For Biodegradable ™ REASONABLE Plastic Mulch in Certified Organic Production ™ PRACTICAL ™ Systems, This article explains how biodegrad- KNOWLEDGEABLE able plastic mulches are made; how biodegrad- “Farmer Friendly, ability is measured; current techniques on eval- Farmer Owned” uating biodegradable mulches; and research Join the celebration: and policy progress to date. The purpose is to NATURE’S inform agricultural professionals, farmers, and INTERNATIONAL Feb. 27-Mar. 1, 2014 La Crosse, Wisconsin policy makers about the suitability of biodegrad- CERTIFICATION SERVICES able plastic mulches for use in certified organic 224 E Hwy 56~Viroqua, WI 54665 agriculture.Read more at www.extension.org/ Phone: 608-637-7080~Fax: 608-637-7460 pages/67951. Email: [email protected] “A true organic community event with exceptional opportunities for Producer Profiles in Organic Dairy, published networking and learning.” by the eOrganic Dairy Team, is a series of farm “A great gathering with wonderful energy!” case studies which track financials as farms transitioned to certified organic production. “Great people, great topics, great exhibits.” Three farm case studies are provided; they can be found at: www.extension.org/pages/59468. “The BEST conference—period!”

Records Needed for Organic Poultry Certifica- “Be prepared to be inspired!” tion, This article provides an introduction to poul- Organic Specialists try recordkeeping requirements for compliance Learn more at with National Organic Program rules. Find the www.mosesorganic.org article at http://www.extension.org/pages/67936 Cashton Farm Supply, Ltd. 300 State Hwy 27, Cashton, WI 54619 Using Cover Crops in Organic Systems: Re- ¾ Feed Products sources and Research from SARE by Andy Zi- Protein and Grain eminski, SARE. This article provides information on some of the many free online resources on ¾ Poultry Rations Get What You Need at the cover crops available from the Sustainable Ag- Starter – Grower – Layer riculture Research and Education (SARE) pro- ¾ Livestock Vitamins & Minerals MOSES bookstore! gram, which has funded hundreds of research ¾ “No Toxic Spray” signs, and books on all and education projects related to cover crops Poultry Pre-mixes aspects of farming, marketing, livestock since 1988. Find the article at www.extension. ¾ Nâturall Fertilizer org/pages/67876. Lawn – Garden – Greenhouse and food & farm policy. and Crop Protection

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www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 21 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

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EQUIPMENT OPPORTUNITIES For Sale: SUSTAINABLE LIVING NEAR THE BWCAW! Small town homestead for sale at edge For Sale: 30-ft. International rotary hoe, Model Wanted: Small farm with one-story house or build- of Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – 181, fold-up wings, good condition. Older Inter- able acreage for market vegetable production. Call Ely end. Well-insulated, two BR, one bath, 1955 national 40-ft. cultivator, 1000 gallon poly tank, John Mehaffey at 941-916-5773 (cell). rambler on a 60 X 180 foot lot. Fenced back yard hydraulic pump, nice unit, good shape. Red Lake has 200 feet of raised beds, drip irrigation, 10 X Falls, MN. Call 218-686-2946. Training: Want to be a Dairy Farmer? The DAIRY 22 greenhouse, chicken coop with 12 bird capac- GRAZING APPRENTICESHIP can help. We ity, and a woodshed. Inside has hardwood floors, For Sale: Red Dragon Flamer w/backpack $125; are training the next generation of dairy farmers Hearthstone “Heritage” woodstove on main floor, Furrow Maker, 3 pt hitch mt $200; Honda 3000 in 4,000 hours through classroom and on-farm and Vermont Castings “Encore” in the basement. Watt Generator, perfect $650; Chicken Coop De- instruction. Visit our website at dairygrazingap- Huge wood room downstairs with study, work room, luxe, on steel wheels $600; JD Hydraulic Cylinder prenticeship.org. or call 715-560-0389. Accepting and partial bathroom. Ricing beds, white fish/tulib- green $100; 6’ x 8’ Green House $325. Call Cathy Master Grazier and Apprentice applications. ee netting, and public access all nearby. $62,500. 563-543-0574. Call Steve 360-918-8397 or 320-734-4597.

MISCELLANEOUS LIVESTOCK For Sale: Seed garlic – Hardneck – German White, For Sale: Herd of cows. 30 Holsteins and 2 Brown Persian Star, grown organically for 3 years. Great Swiss. MOSA certified. Call 715-977-0602 or 715- in heavy soil. Stores till May. $10/16. Pictures – 684-2455. rcvcfarm.com. Call Sam 414-213-5337.   For Sale: Blue-faced Leicester/Icelandic sheep and For Sale: Surplus insulated glass – perfect   lambs. 100% grass fed on certified organic pas- for greenhouses, solar homes, sunrooms or   tures. Cost $75-200 each depending on age and ag buildings. Also hardwood butcher block           quantity purchased. Call 715-379-7284. 30”X100”X1-1/8” for sustainable countertops or   bar tops. Oak, ash, cherry, maple, mahogany from   $129. www.kissourglass.com or 715-639-3762                 FORAGES before 9 p.m. Joe Bacon. Arctic Glass since 1979!                     For Sale: NC large round or square bales alfalfa/ Workshop: Biochar/Composting workshop July 13,             grass mix certified organic with test results. Cen- 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rissman Organic Farm 9497 W               tral Iowa. Call Mark Tjelmeland, 515-338-0151, Lightsville Road, Leaf River, Illinois. Call or email   [email protected] Joel/Adela 815-938-3042 or rissman4@hotmail.   com.                     GRAINS. For Sale: ORGANIC FISH FERTILIZER 15-1-1, 100% dry water soluble, 5-7 times more nutritious   For Sale: Organic shelled corn, organic new crop than liquid fish. Will not clog drip irrigation. 1 lb or                             wrapped hay, big bales, can deliver. Call 608-574- 55 lb packaging, can be shipped UPS. Frommelt   2160. Ag Service, Greeley, IA, 563-920-3674.  

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All classified ads come with a free listing in the Online Organic Classifieds at   www.mosesorganic.org.  

  Ads can be submitted online at mosesorganic.org/broadcaster_adrates.html. Or, complete this form and           mail with your ad to: MOSES, PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767     Name:                 Contact Hesco if you are interested   Organic  Hard Red   Winter Wheat            Address:   in forward contra cting your 2013 City: State: ZIP:                           Phone:     Email:                 “Make sure you have a solid  outlet for your crop each year  PAYMENT INFORMATION: Place my ad in these issues:   ($12/issue for 25 words;  and Hesco   can  provide   that  for         I’m enclosing a check made out to MOSES. $18/issue for up to 40 words)             For more information please contact Jay   Please charge $ ______to my: you” Jan.-Feb. Johnson or Kevin Darling at 1-605-884-1100  Visa MasterCard Discover Exp. March-April

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22 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013 Inside Organics... from page 3 Those of us involved in the production side of ued growth and trust of the organic label in the agriculture need to educate consumers about marketplace. It is only through communication allowing synthetics only when there are no the realities of organic food production, and that we can build compassion for each other’s natural alternatives, or those synthetics es- how hard we work to protect the land and hu- position and develop a very, very good system sential to a specific type of production. There manely raise livestock. But consumers also of agriculture that all of us realize will never are many compromises on the National List of need to understand that there is no perfection, be perfect. approved substances. However, the synthetics but instead decisions made that result in the on the National List are the least toxic alterna- least damage, with continual improvement Harriet Behar ([email protected]) is a tives and compatible with organic production over time. MOSES Organic Specialist. systems. I was visiting an organic farm a few years ago For instance, when looking at the National List while they were hosting a busload of “city folks” we see synthetics such as petroleum-based oils to see how they grew their crops. For weeks be- that are allowed for spraying on fruit trees in fore the tour, the whole family and many of the the spring to smother insects; a variety of syn- neighbors had walked the 100s of acres of ed- thetic drugs to promote organic animal health; ible beans hand hoeing out weeds. The visitors and many processing aids and ingredients to saw long, clean rows of pintos, black beans, produce the wide variety of foods from baked navy beans and soybeans. Perhaps it would goods to juices and fermented products. Do have been a better learning experience if they these synthetics make organic foods less per- would have been handed a hoe to weed a few fect, or can we justify their use to have organic hundred feet when they got off the bus, so they apple juice, yogurt, and muffins? could experience the sweat and blisters that re- sulted in those beautiful fields. Bridging the Gap More and more, consumers and farmers are I believe that people with home gardens make speaking a different language when talking better consumers for farmers’ market vendors about the topic of organic agriculture. A lack and organic retailers. Customers with gardens of understanding of the complexities and dif- know that it is not easy to grow a big carrot, a ficulties inherent in the uncertain profession cosmetically beautiful tomato or a worm-free of farming can lead the consumer to think ear of corn without resorting to the use of toxic that seeds simply get put in the ground and materials and environmental degradation. a bumper crop harvested a few months later. They are perhaps more willing to pay a fair Producers have not been very good at explain- price for high quality organic produce. ing the serious challenges they face when run- ning their operations. Ups and downs just Food producers must do a better job of shar- come with the territory, and farmers tend not ing not only the feel-good side of organics, but to complain about their lot in life. On the other also the hard work and difficulties inherent in hand, consumers have not been very clear on farming. This will build a stronger partnership what their expectations are, so producers can with customers. There must be more open dis- try to meet those expectations or explain why cussion and a willingness to learn from both it is unrealistic to do so. sides. This will develop a foundation for contin-

Organic Connect with the Commodity Organic Farming Community Pricing on Facebook and Twitter! Resources Find MOSES on Facebook as Organic Grain Prices Midwest-Organic-and-Sustainable- National Organic Grain Education-Service-MOSES. Just and Feedstuffs Report click on the Facebook “f” on our (see curent report on this page) website, www.mosesorganic.org. CROPP Cooperative Grower Pool/Or- Then “like” us! ganic Trader Newsletter Makers of www.farmers.coop/feed-program/ organic-trader/ 1-888-809-9297 Living Media Rodale Organic Price Report To make sure you see our posts on www.rodaleinstitute.org/Organic- for Organic your Facebook news feed, hover Price-Report over the “Liked” button on the Organic Milk Prices MOSES Facebook page near the NODPA Growers cover photo. A menu will appear. 30 Keets Rd, Deerfield, MA 01342 Select “show in news feed.” FAX: 866- 554-9483 PHONE: 413 772 0444 NOW you’re connected! www.nodpa.com/payprice.shtml Organic Livestock Prices CROPP Cooperative Organic Trader Newsletter www.farmers.coop/feed-program/ Our Twitter handle is @mosesorganic. organic-trader/ Find us fast: click on the blue bird at 1-888-809-9297 www.mosesorganic.org. Where to Buy and Sell Your Organic Products MOSES Organic Resource Directory 802-223-6049 | Montpelier, Vermont www.mosesorganic.org/resourcedirec- tory.html vermontcompost.com or request a hard copy by contacting MOSES, 715-778-5775 we speak organic

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 23 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Look for additional events and updates at www.mosesorganic.org/events.html. Look for the wheat for MOSES sponsored events! July 1, WEI’s 2013 Organic Farm School - “Meet The Farmers July 25, MOSES Field Day - Organic Row Crops, Johnson Aug. 18, In Her Boots: Sustainable Agriculture for Women Panel”, Minneapolis, Minn. Discussion with local farmers. Visit Farm, Madison, SD Charlie Johnson, MOSES Farmer of by Women, Scotch Hill Farm, Brodhead, Wis. Learn from www.w-e-i.org or call 651-583-0705 for more information. the Year, hosts a tour of his farm with 2,800 acres of corn, women who run successful CSA operations through the Fair soybeans, oats and alfalfa explaining how the farm’s simple, Share Coalition. Topics include starting a CSA, balancing July 8, WEI’s 2013 Organic Farm School - “Seed Saving With yet successful systems for crop rotations and cultivation have farm and family pressures, and creating value-added products from the Seed Technician Magician,” Minneapolis, Minn. With Heidi created clean fields and good yields for many years. Partners: the farm. Visit www.mosesorganic.org/FieldDayBootsBrodhead. Cook (Seed Savers Exchange, Iowa). Visit www.w-e-i.org or call Dakota Rural Action and Northern Plains Sustainable Agriculture html or call 715-778-5775 for more information. 651-583-0705 for more information. Society. Visit http://www.mosesorganic.org/FieldDays.html or call 715-778-5775 for more information. Aug. 21, Flame Weeding Workshop, Univ. of Neb., Concord, July 9, Row Crops and Prairie Bus Tour, Lewiston, Minn. Tour Neb. Results from 6-years of research conducted by the Teams of Southern Minnesota featuring research conducted by Iowa July 26, Social Media Workshop, Michael Fields Agricultural of Dr. Stevan Knezevic (Weed Science) and Dr. George Gogos State University as part of the Science-based Trials of Row Crops Institute, East Troy, Wis. This workshop will provide the guiding (Mechanical Engineering). For more information and registration Integrated with Prairies (STRIPs) project. The Land Stewardship principles necessary for building sustainable connections through contact Wendy Winstead, Ph: 402-584-3837, wwinstead2@unl. Project to showcase the impacts perennial plants can have on the social media, regardless of the tools used. It will include an overview edu erosion-prone, karst-defined landscape of the Driftless Region. of the most popular tools currently available, an introduction to the Visit http://landstewardshipproject.org or call 507-523-3366 for guiding principles of social media marketing, easy steps that farmers Aug. 23-25, RestorationAg 101: Keyline Farm Design - more information. to take to enhance interactions, and examples of effective posts. Perennial Food and Forage, Iowa City, Iowa. Join Mark Shepard, Visit http://michaelfields.org/whole-farm-workshop-schedule/ or a farmer and designer of world-class reputation and author of July 9-11, Wis. Farm Technology Days, Dallas, Wis. Visit call 262-642-3303 for more information and to register. Restoration Agriculture at VersaLand Farm near Iowa City, where the MOSES booth! you’ll be on-site of a developing perennial farmstead implementing Aug. 4, In Her Boots: Sustainable Agriculture for Women Keyline design, multi-species grazing, fruit and nut crops, July 12, Goat Milk Processing Workshop, East Troy, Wis. A by Women, Canoe Creek Produce, Decorah, Iowa. vegetable alleycropping, and using electric tractor power. Visit hands-on workshop where participants will help prepare goat milk Discuss farm diversification, beginning farmer challenges www.versaland.com for more information. goods, including goat milk ice cream, from start to finish. Visit http:// and resources, and farmstay start-ups with a panel of michaelfields.org/whole-farm-workshop-schedule/ or call 262-642- experienced farmers plus representatives of FoodCorps and Aug. 27, MOSES Field Day–Grass-fed Beef, Row Crops 3303 for more information and to register. MOSES. Visit www.mosesorganic.org/FieldDayBootsDecorah. and Poultry, Sandy Ridge Farm, Tampico, Ill. Tour 1200+ html or call 715-778-5775 for more information. acres of certified organic crops plus grass-fed beef and July 13, Festival of Farms, Montrose and Watertown, Minn. poultry operations. Gearld Fry of Bovine Engineering See a diverse array of sustainable farming techniques including Aug. 5, WEI’s 2013 Organic Farm School - “Basics of Urban and Consulting leads the pasture walk about the grass-fed beef vegetables, sheep, turkeys, chickens, cattle and more. Three tour Beekeeping,” Minneapolis, Minn. With Erin Rupp and Kristy Allen operation. Partners: Illinois Organic Growers Assoc. and University times at three of the farms allow you to pick and choose which you (Beez Kneez). Visit www.w-e-i.org or call 651-583-0705 for more of Illinois Extension Visit www.mosesorganic.org/FieldDayGrass- want to visit at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Visit www.sfa-mn.orgfor information. fedBeef&More.html or call 715-778-5775 for more information. more information. Aug. 8, In Her Boots: Sustainable Agriculture for Women Sept. 8, Soil Sisters: South Central Women in July 13, Grain Place Foods Farm Tour & Summer Seminar, by Women, Dancing Winds Farms , Kenyon, Minn. A Sustainable Agriculture Farm Tour, www.soilsisterswi.org. Marquette, Neb. An annual event, The Grain Place (the Vetter panel of farmers discusses diversification through farmstays, More info on page 8 and at www.mosesorganic.org. family farm) and Grain Place Foods hosts the Farm Tour & Summer farming as a single woman, starting farms mid-life, beginning Seminar for anyone interested in organic farming, the organic food farmer land access & financing, cheesemaking, raising goats, and Sept. 15, MOSES Field Day–Transitioning to Organic, industry, and sustainable agriculture in general. Tour the farm and more! Visit www.mosesorganic.org/FieldDayBootsKenyon.html or Gardens of Eagan, Northfield, Minn. More info at www. plant, learn and share ideas about various organic growing and call 715-778-5775 for more information. mosesorganic.org. processing practices. Visit www.grainplacefoods.com or call 402 854-3195 for more information. Aug. 12, WEI’s 2013 Organic Farm School - “The Future of the Sept. 16, MOSES Field Day–Vegetable Diversification, Good Food Revolution,” Minneapolis, Minn., with Will Allen (CEO PrairiErth Farm, Bloomington, Ill. More info at www. July 15, WEI’s 2013 Organic Farm School - “Fish and Greens: and Founder of Growing Power Milwaukee). Visit www.w-e-i.org or mosesorganic.org. Introduction to Aquaponics,” Minneapolis, Minn. With Annelie call 651-583-0705 for more information. Lindberg-Livingston (Women’s Environmental Institute) and Chad Save the Dates! Nov. 15-16 (La Crosse, Wis.) or Dec. 6-7 Herbert (Urban Farm Project). Visit www.w-e-i.org or call 651-583- Aug. 13, WCROC Organic Dairy Day, Morris, Minn. Featuring (East Troy, Wis.) with a follow up meeting on Jan 10 (Prairie 0705 for more information. Cindy Daley, Chico State University Organic Dairy Professor and du Sac, Wis.). Fearless Farm Finances: Farm Financial Jon Bansen, an organic dairy farmer from Oregon. Also field Management Demystified. This three-day course will July 19, Vegetable Seed Saving Workshop, Ostensible Farm, tour stops focusing on supplementation of grazing cows; grazing help you develop a comfort and understanding of the basics of Arkansaw, Wis. Detailed hands-on class teaching how to grow, summer annuals, and demonstrations of the CowVac and Bruce farm financial management. Participants will receive a copy of collect and properly store seed for vegetable crops. We will Walk-thru fly traps. Visit http://wcroc.cfans.umn.edu for more the popular MOSES book Fearless Farm Finances. Choose the cover crop-specific techniques, hand pollination, overwintering information. date and location best for you. Offered by MOSES, Michael Fields for biennial and winter vegetables, and harvest procedures. For Agricultural Institute, University of Wis. Extension and Badgerland information or to request registration forms, call 715-647-3033. Aug. 14, MOSES Dairy Field Day, Dennis & Ruth Buck Financial. More information soon at www.mosesorganic.org. Farm, Goodhue County, Minn. Gather ideas to make your July 22, WEI’s 2013 Organic Farm School - “It All Comes Down dairy more profitable. Speakers include veterinarians and Feb. 27- March 1, 2014, MOSES 25th Anniversary Organic to HUMUS,” Minneapolis, Minn. With Professor Pat Farrell (UMD feed experts, plus a panel of experienced organic dairy Farming Conference, La Crosse, Wis. Mark your calendars – Department of Geography). Visit www.w-e-i.org or call 651-583- farmers. Tour the farm’s new free stall barn and corn test plot. Lunch now! Learn more at www.mosesorganic.org. 0705 for more information. will be provided. Visit www.mosesorganic.org/FieldDayDairy.html or call 715-778-5775 for more information.

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24 Organic Broadcaster • July - August 2013