Silvopasture works with landscape, climate to meet farming goals meet to climate landscape, Silvopasture with works By Keefe Keeley as an integratedas an agroecosystem.” ment of the interactions between the components manage intensive involve which livestock with practice as “intentional combinations of within the field of ,and define the USDA considers silvopasture one of five practices human needs while sustaining the land. The achieveto Smith’s vision of trees providing for method modern a crops—offers of livestock, , and integration Silvopasture—the trees livestock in production. Crops of classic his half volume Tree agricultural systems. The first researched the value of trees in scientist J. Russell Smith ments of the farm. integratesture these very ele silvopas enough, Aptly livestock. woodlands, fields,and flocksof Silvanus, for forest, or the Roman deity word comes from the Latin silva pasture has timeless roots. The porary agricultural science, silvo Volume 23 |Number6 Picked up this newspaper at an event? an at newspaper this Picked up In moreIn recent history, USDA Although asubject of contem Renew online or call Carly at 715-778-5775. Check the date in the address box below.

NONPROFIT ORG. mosesorganic.org/sign-up Don’t miss issue! an U.S. POSTAGE PAID is devoted the to use of Subscribe now —it’s free! Eau Claire, WI PERMIT # 203 known for protecting

PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767 Page 5 Page fit best is which market How to decide

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- - - Icelandic graze under hickory trees at Badgersett Farm Minn. Canton, in at Badgersett trees hickory under graze sheep Icelandic -

Please renew your free subscription before it expires! practices from other methods: farming other agroforestry and silvopasture tinguish of Tolkien’s Middle these Earth, four dis “Ints” By Jennifer Nelson venture aquaponics Paul-based St. for booming is Business West 7 West thein works at the former Schmidt brewery on UO opened 2014 in and already has asecond site former Hamm’s brewery near downtown St. Paul. pounds ofand fish certified organicproduce in the Urban Organics (UO) now grows thousands of tilapia and leafy greens grow. Aquaponics facility, wife, Kristin Koontzwife, Kristin Haider, he wanted do to dif one evening along, after hot day and told his construction business for years, and came home share the business’s founding story. Haider ran a operations and construction of the new facility to took time out of busy his schedule overseeing of the aquaponics system is the cycle.growth the On other side ing tilapia with a12-month fish.Currently theygroware feeding of and care the taking aquaculture system, including tenance on the recirculating day often with begins main tion at the Hamm’s site. His while the managing produc- thein aquaponics business. Haider jumped help—was to in quartet—Koontz the before minds involved, it wasn’t long creative thoughtful, these With keter, interested the in project. and Haberman, Fred amar friends, Ames, arealtor, Chris research,his and soon had two band look to into it. Haider did Haider encouraged her hus - about the benefitsand ease of aquaponics.Koontz the charismatic Allen of Will Growing Power talk ferent work. Watching that TV evening, she saw Midwest Organic ■ ■

Not be to confused with the tree-like Ents Where once beer flowedan assembly off line, Dave Haider, UO’s co-founder and manager, Haider oversees operations operations oversees Haider

water, water, Intensive and forage for their mutual benefit; Intentional Page 9 Page system organic in no-till for results Research th Street, St. in also Paul, Minn. and other features; farm management of land, fertility, , combinations of trees, livestock, & Sustainable Education Service Education Sustainable - - - the Urban Organics aquaponics facility in St.Paul, Minn. facility aquaponics the Urban Organics grow inside foreground in the tanks fish by the water irrigated from Greens Photo by TobiasCarter,SavannaInstitute

Page 10 Page 30 Nov. registration opens MOSES Conference - - Improvement 2014. Associationin (MCIA) Dave certification process through theMinnesota Crop retailers. and rants and vegetables, along with many local restau theand fish tanks, so the cycle continues. The veggie-cleaned fresh water filters backinto the agri-foam, feeding nutrients the to veggies. hours per day. The fish wastewater cycles through under 180 fluorescentgrowlights for to 14 16 vegetables inert grow in neutral substrate growth then transplant into grow-out main area.The ing basil and cilantro directly into trays, seedling leafy greens of kale and chard, and herbs includ planting, and harvest. Urban Organics seeds vegetable production, including seeding, trans tations of the southeastern U.S. Silvopastures common are also the in pine plan forests—an nearly area the size of California. 100 million acres of managed birch and pine Sweden, commercially-harvested reindeer graze amonggraze the Norway, trees. Finland, In and Kristin KoontzKristin Haider facilitated the organic Lunds and Byerly’s loyal are buyers of UO fish

for other livestock to to livestock other for fodder high-value and ham, Iberian features for cork, acorns for sin). cultural landscape This (one-seventh the of area Wiscon gal covers about 5million acres silvopasture Spain in and Portu other of parts the world. silvopasture is big business in uncommon the in Midwest, ■ ■

forage components; among tree, livestock, and Interactive quality, and soil conservation. such as habitat, wildlife water tion as well as amenity values both and farm forest produc- including unit, management Integrated Although still relatively relatively still Although November | December 2015

To To

To To Aquaponics Silvopasture function asingle in relationships relationships Photo Organics by Urban Page 13 Page marketing formodel CSA Cooperative on page 14 page on Dehesa on page 6 page on - -

- - - - TM Change is coming to MOSES

Volume 23, #6 November | December 2015 From the From the Executive Director Board President Executive Director Faye Jones Twenty years ago The organic food Managing Editor Audrey Alwell MOSES was just a sector has seen Contributing Editors Harriet Behar Jody Padgham glimmer of an idea. tremendous growth in Advertising Coordinator Eric Hatling Today, it’s a thriving the past 25 to 30 years. Online Coordinator Carly Stephenson organization with 10 hard-working staff members What some may not know is that the pioneers in this and many program areas, including the flagship movement were working the fields, walking the halls TM The Organic Broadcaster is a bimonthly MOSES Organic Farming Conference. I have been of Congress, and developing strong standards many newspaper published by the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES), a privileged to be a part of growing MOSES into a years before the federal Organic Foods Production nonprofit that promotes organic and sustainable through education, resources and nationally respected organization serving farmers Act of 1990. practical advice. and advocating for organic and sustainable farming. Faye Jones was one of these pioneers. Her early Opinions expressed by the authors do not Today, I’m announcing that I’ll be leaving MOSES leadership and resulting contributions have been necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Inclusion of an advertisement does not imply In the spring of 2016. I was the first MOSES employee instrumental in making MOSES what it is today: endorsement of a product. We reserve the right all those years ago, and it’s time to pass the reins a leading national resource for farmers who want to to refuse inappropriate advertising. © 2015 MOSES to someone new. This is a great time for MOSES: transition to or improve their organic and sustainable Content may be reprinted with permission. our core programs are thriving; we have two new practices. Her creativity, energies and vision helped Contact [email protected]. Organic Specialists in the MOSES office; we are strong shape the annual MOSES Organic Farming Display Advertising: financially; and, we have many solid programs in Conference into an event now serving over 3,400 [email protected] or 715-778-5775 place and new partner projects underway. attendees from all across the U.S. and overseas. Content Submissions or Inquiries: It gives me such hope to see the commitment and As a long-time organic farmer and teacher, I will [email protected] dedication to organic farming of so many people be forever grateful for the programs, materials and Free Subscription: from diverse backgrounds. When I started organic personal connections MOSES has made available to mosesorganic.org/sign-up or 715-778-5775 farming more than 30 years ago it was hard even me over the years. As president of the MOSES Board to be taken seriously. Now organic has become of Directors, I speak on behalf of current and past MOSES is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit qualified to board members in thanking Faye for the strong receive tax-deductible donations. mainstream! There are so many terms used now to Please support our programs and this talk about healthy food. Whether you’re growing organization we have today. It is fiscally sound, FREE publication with a donation: organic, local, sustainable, natural, biological, or programmatically robust, and very well staffed. MOSES, P.O. Box 339,Spring Valley, WI 54767 grass-fed, you’re helping change the way America As our first, and, to date, only executive director, Online: mosesorganic.org/donate farms. Faye has plowed an impressive path. it is hard to One farm at a time, we are creating a better imagine MOSES without her. We honor her transition MOSES educates, inspires, world. I feel truly blessed to be part of the good food and wish her well in her next chapter. We are and empowers farmers to thrive in a revolution. I look forward to many more years of confident our next executive director will find MOSES sustainable, organic system of agriculture. shaping our agricultural future. well positioned for the future.

~ Faye Jones, MOSES Executive Director ~ Carmen Fernholz, MOSES Board President

Posting for MOSES Executive Director: mosesorganic.org/farming/job-postings mosesorganic.org | 715-778-5775 | 3

Spread word about benefits of organic to counter negative media stories By Harriet Behar Each year, organic products make up a higher learned. percentage of the food and fiber market in the Those who sell direct to consumers through United States and around the world. With success INSIDE ORGANICS farmers markets or retail stores have an oppor- comes negative media attention, questioning the tunity to reach out as well. Many farmers’ mar- value and integrity of organic. My sense is that kets have annual meetings; ask to give a talk this negativity is coming from those who feel Join the discussion: about organics to your fellow farmers’ market organic is taking away their market share, and mosesorganic.org/policywork/ vendors. This conversation can help build vendor others who feel they need to point out that camaraderie as well as lessen consumer confu- organic is not the “good food” story that most inside-organics-blog sion when all the vendors understand what is people believe. and is not allowed to carry the organic label. But, the good news is we have a secret weapon Talk to your local food coop about speaking at to combat negative media stories: the army of communication that can be done without talking their annual meeting, putting a face to the food organic ambassadors, which includes you! to large groups of strangers. I have found that that members see on their shelves. This interac- Just as we have grown the organic sector one most people are genuinely curious about organic tion will build customer loyalty and understand- gallon of organic milk, one acre of organic corn, agriculture. If you’ve put on a field day or open ing of the challenges you face as you grow and one bunch of organic kale at a time, we all can house at your farm, you know that many of your healthy food for your community. make a difference by talking one-on-one to our neighbors attend not because they plan to become There is a lot of media noise that says the neighbors, friends and family as well as to our organic farmers, but to see the differences or majority of organic farms have become industrial local communities about the value of organic. We similarities between what you do on your farm or “factory-style” operations, or that they are too can help others understand how organic produc- and their own farming practices. small to be sustainable (funny how neither of tion really works. There is confusion in many Many of us are involved in our local communi- these statements are true, and contradict each people’s minds about what organic really means ties in one way or another. Our children, nephews/ other). Some articles may point out that organic for them and our environment. We can help to nieces, grandchildren are in Scouts, 4-H or FFA. farmers spray and use toxic pesticides just like clear up that confusion, one conversation at a time. Inviting these groups to visit your farm, or offer- non-organic farmers, and that our tillage causes One example of negative media attention is an ing to talk about the basics of organic farming at severe environmental degradation. These state- article picked up by other outlets from Refinery29, one of their meetings can go a long way to open- ments have only a small germ of truth and leave “The End of Organic Farming Might Be Sooner ing up their eyes to opportunities they may not out a lot of very important details. Than We Thought.” Despite this dire headline, know exist. A small seed planted in the minds of Are there large-scale organic farms? Yes. But there is no mention of organic agriculture in the our youth can bring us all a brighter future, are they exactly like the large, non-organic article. Instead, the focus is on the many chal- resulting in more organic farmers, or at least CAFOs we see across the countryside? No. lenges faced by small-scale farmers, making the those who have a positive view of organics and Do organic farmers spray their fields? Maybe, but case that small scale is unsustainable. The farms use some organic practices on their farms. what matters is what’s in the sprayer. There is a mentioned are not certified organic (at least I High school or technical college agriculture rigorous review of all synthetic materials allowed could not find them on the NOP list). Nor do the teachers are another fertile area for education; in organic production, making sure they are the points made address the many reasons that some- you could offer a 45-minute discussion with their least toxic products. Organic farmers must also one might choose to be organic. There is an class, or work out a variety of interactions with try various mechanical or cultural methods and underlying assumption that organic farms are at students through the year. You need not develop a must show they were unsuccessful before using a scale that is too small to be sustainable. All of long presentation, just a short discussion of what any approved synthetic. These criteria are not you farmers making a living from organic farm- you do on your farm, generally saving most of the mandated in non-organic agriculture. ing know this is not true. Many people will only time with the group for their questions. The requirement that organic farmers have a see the headline and not take the time to read the Your church, Lions or Kiwanis clubs, hospital soil-building rotation, that we continually improve article. Unfortunately, this headline may leave auxiliary, local environmental organizations, rod organic matter and increase soil biological life many folks with the impression that organic and gun clubs, and more could all be small-scale through plant- and animal-based inputs goes a farming is on the verge of failure and about to venues where you can build understanding and long way to mitigating the negative effects our disappear completely. dispel myths about organic. Think about the tillage causes. Yes, organic farmers use manure What can be done to combat negative media common theme each of these groups focus upon to fertilize crops, but we are held to a strict stan- attention? I know many people are not comfort- and tailor your discussion with them around their dard of how soon we can harvest after that appli- able with public speaking, but there is a lot of issues and concerns. It is easy to talk about the cation to prevent pathogens from contaminating environmental benefits of organic farming to organic food. those who hunt, fish, or seek to preserve and As someone who has visited more than a thou- enhance specific ecosystems. Our organic regula- sand organic farms, I can say that each one has tion mandates we promote environmental health an important and positive story to tell. Your dis- Living Potting through protection of soil and water quality, as cussion of what you actually do on your farm is well as biodiversity. the enduring message needed to overcome the Soil for Organic From the materials allowed to be used in negative media stories that are becoming all too organics to the many cultural, biological and prevalent. Try to reach out to at least one organi- Growers mechanical strategies used on organic farms, all zation this winter—you may find you really enjoy are based in the foundational principle to produce being an organic ambassador. food in the most environmentally beneficial man- Fall Prebuy Program ner possible. Building bridges of understanding in Harriet Behar, MOSES Senior Organic Specialist, answers We offer discounts to growers who buy early. our own communities can easily have a ripple farmers’ questions about certification and organic Save significantly on shipping fees. effect, since folks attending your discussion will practices. Email her at [email protected]. September 21st - December 21st probably talk to others about what they have 802-223-6049 | Montpelier, Vermont vermontcompost.com

M Y CO PAN we speak organic 4 | November | December 2015

“What type of feed supplements can I give to my parameters outlined previously, it would be accept- organic livestock?” able. Minor ingredients used in vitamins, such as any type of carriers or diluent that are part of the Answer by Harriet Behar formulation, are allowed. All agricultural feed, such as corn, beans, small There is a fee to view the AAFCO Official Pub- grains or forages, must be certified organic in lication that is based on how often you want order to be fed to organic livestock. Organic crops access. See www.aafco.org/Publications. The Code grown by small-scale producers who are exempt of Federal Regulations is searchable at www. from organic certification can’t be used. Feed sup- accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/ plements or additives that might contain agricul- cfrsearch.cfm. tural products (e.g. soy oil as a dust suppressant), MOSES Organic Specialists answer your questions carriers such as wheat middlings, binders or ingre- about organic production and certification. “Can I get more for my land if I rent it for organic pro- dients to improve palatability (e.g. molasses) also duction versus conventional corn production? ” must be certified organic. CALL: Organic Answer Line Answer by Jennifer Nelson While no rule says you must purchase feed 888-551-4769 or 715-778-5775 supplements from certified organic feed mills, this Organic farming is more than a season of does make it easier to ensure you’re meeting SUBMIT: Click “Ask a Specialist” button putting seeds in the ground and harvesting the organic rules since they will have acceptable feeds, at mosesorganic.org/ask. plants. It is a farming system that integrates cul- feed additives (a nutrient, such as an amino acid, tural, biological, and mechanical practices to foster vitamin and/or mineral) and feed supplements READ: Browse answers to questions cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, (nutrient blends added to feed or fed free choice). at mosesorganic.org/ask. and conserve biodiversity. As such, renting land to As with all inputs, all natural (non-agricul- an organic farmer has advantages that come from tural) items are allowed in organic production— DOWNLOAD: Organic Fact Sheets at improvements to your land. It requires more than salt, diatomaceous earth, kaolin clay, or enzymes mosesorganic.org/publications/ just a lease. It’s a conversation between landowner —as long as there are no synthetic additives, such organic-fact-sheets. and farmer, and an agreement based on a few as anti-caking agents, flavorings or colorings. You shared understandings. Below are a few things to will need to get information from the supplier think about while coming to an agreement. verifying this. Be aware that yellow prussiate of Make sure you and your certifier have complete The price of leasing organic land, like any soda (sodium ferrocyanide), an anticaking agent information on any ocean-sourced product to deter- other farmland, depends first on the quality of the common in bagged livestock salt, is not allowed. mine if it is acceptable. land. Is it rich bottom land, or rocky or sandy ter- You can typically find this product listed as an The organic regulations also clearly prohibit rain? Whether or not it is managed using organic ingredient on the salt bag. Also note that kelp is some ingredients and uses. For example, you can- production methods, land has inherent qualities considered an agricultural product and must be not feed supplements or additives above the that make it easier to farm, and more valuable as certified organic to be used in livestock feed. amount needed to supply the nutritional needs of such. This year, even with commodity prices drop- Organic regulations have some allowances for the animal. Plastic pellets, urea or recycled ping, land prices have remained relatively stable. synthetic materials when a product is used to manure cannot be fed to organic livestock. Drugs, However, there are other variables that factor promote health, such as a homeopathic remedy. hormones, antibiotics or ionophores (ion carriers) into acreage cost. For example, if your land has Items you give to your livestock on a regular basis, cannot be fed to organic livestock. No poultry or been fallow for years, it’s likely the organic farmer or seasonally as part of their feed, are considered mammalian slaughter byproducts can be fed to would need to add soil nutrients and tillage to get feed additives or supplements and not healthcare organic mammals or poultry. This includes blood the soil ready for planting crops. Organic products. For example, if you feed eggs to your meal, bone charcoal, bone meal, or gelatin. Any can be a good option for previously fallow land, calves to help them avoid diarrhea for a week, the minerals that have been proteinated or derived but only with good and diverse forage, fencing and eggs are a healthcare product and do not need to from slaughter byproducts or GMOs are not water in place to give the land value as pasture. be organic. But, if you feed eggs regularly until the allowed. Some of this information will be in the Additionally, it’s very important to test the soil and calves are a certain age, the eggs would be consid- ingredients statement and some will not. have it evaluated by a professional consultant so ered a feed and would need to be certified organic. Since the label might not provide all the infor- you both know what it holds to begin with. Yeast and bacteria cultures do not need to be mation you need to judge a product’s acceptability Organic farmers will want to rent the land for a certified organic, even though some may be avail- for organic production, you should work with your longer term because they will need to plant a five- able in an organic form. However, you must have organic certification agency to verify acceptability to seven-year rotation to build up the soil and grow documentation that they are not from a genetically of feed supplements for your organic livestock or a cash crop. The farmer and landowner should modified source. those you’re transitioning to organic. discuss if the price will fluctuate between when Fish and crab meal, usually seen as a “natural” If you are working with an animal nutritionist they are growing higher value crops like corn and form of the amino acid methionine, may be allowed who is willing to help you verify products are beans and years they are soil-building by growing by your certifier as a feed additive. Fish and crab allowed in organic production, you can recommend small grains and hay. The rental fee could be an meal that are not organic, would not be allowed as finding acceptable sources of vitamins and miner- average of these numbers and have the same fee a significant ingredient in organic livestock feed. als by checking these sources: the Food and Drug each year, or the lease could reflect the crop rota- DL methionine is the only synthetic amino acid Administration (FDA) Code of Federal Regula- tion plan and be less during the lower crop value allowed in organic livestock, and only for poultry tions Title 21, (in the 500s) or, the current edition years. in specific amounts. Fish or crab meal is not con- of the American Association of Feed Control Offi- Ultimately, the price you’ll receive comes sidered agricultural at this time, but some might cials (AAFCO) Official Publication. If a nutrient is down to a shared agreement between you and contain a prohibited preservative: ethoxyquin. listed in either of those publications and meets the To Ask a Specialist on page 15

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Do a cost assessment to decide if market is right for you By Jody Padgham It’s a chilly October morning, and you are tired Sample Market Assessment: Carrots delivery costs among more items and this would and grumpy because you were up late harvesting Let’s say that you currently sell bunched car- become more profitable. If we could convince the the last of the frost perishables, but there you are rots and other vegetables at a Saturday farmers’ chef that our carrots were really worth $0.90 per with a smile pasted on your face for the last of market in Carrottown from 7 to noon, and at a pound, we’d make $0.14 per pound—a good look- the farmers’ market customers. How did you do Wednesday market in Beetville from 2-6 p.m., ing $84 profit above labor for the four deliveries. at farmers’ market this year? Did you break even, but want to look at selling bulk carrots to a nurs- Obviously Carrottown is the best market here, but maybe make a little, or even a lot? Was going to ing home in Cabbageburg. You go to 20 weekly it takes us 9 hours to harvest and 340 hours to do this farmers’ market worthwhile? markets at each location, and could deliver to the the actual selling. That is a lot of time. We have These questions can’t be answered by adding nursing home once a month for 4 months. to be sure to have a lot of labor available to make up how much cash you brought home each You’ve been going to the farmers’ markets for this market work. Wednesday or Saturday, or by whether you were two years, and estimate that carrots are about 15 There are a few things to note about this exer- able to pay your bills over the summer. The true percent of your total sales. This summer you sold cise. Be sure to pay yourself (and your friends or answers involve an assessment of how much it 400 bunches of carrots at Carrottown, and 200 relatives) for the labor you put in, including man- actually costs you to sell at a particular market. bunches at Beetville, for $2.50 per bunch. Each agement and time at the market. A lot of farmers Once you know the answer, then you can consider bunch has a pound of carrots. You talked to the say that they’ll “pay themselves from the profit.” if a market is the best one for your situation, or if cook at the nursing home, and they’d like to buy But, it is better to figure your wage into the selling you might do better elsewhere. 600 pounds of carrots this winter and are willing price, then the net profit (after your time is paid) to pay you $0.80 per pound. Unfortunately, for can be reinvested in the operation or saved. Cost of Production now that’s all they’ll buy from you. Of course, the mighty dollar isn’t the only deci- To a point, the cost to grow a beet or a ruta- Since you want to compare selling carrots sion factor in selling a particular product in a baga or raise a lamb or a chicken will be the bunched with greens and boxed wholesale, which specific market. You must take into account your same no matter how you market it. You have to will be harvested and packed differently, you will labor force, your interests, your time availability plant, weed, pick, feed and water the raw “prod- consider the common costs of production through and what the competition is doing in order to uct” no matter how it is sold. Generally costs are the time of harvest. At harvest, different labor is decide if a particular product or market is right consistent through the point that you have to needed to process carrots for bunching vs. bulk for you. While wholesale may mean lower per harvest or process the plant or animal. What you pack. But, since you don’t have a mechanical har- piece profit, the sales take a lot less time out of have to put in to get your product to this point is vester, the difference starts in the packing shed your day (or week, or month) and orders are gen- considered the “cost of production.” Those costs because all carrots will be dug by hand. erally done in advance. You can plan your grow- generally include labor and inputs, overhead, The Carrottown market is 30 miles from the ing and harvesting, and will not be bringing any equipment and some supplies. farm. You leave for the Saturday market at 5:30 valuable product home, as is common at a farm- Cost of production is important in setting a.m. and come home at 2 p.m. It is busy, though, ers’ market. Wholesale accounts also have the prices, which should differ with various markets. so two of you need to be there. Beetville is 45 potential to grow with very little additional cost. A price in each market should be based on the miles away, but the Wednesday market doesn’t If the nursing home loves your carrots, there’s a cost of production added to the cost to market, start until 2 p.m., giving you time to harvest in good chance you can talk them into buying pota- plus a margin of profit. (To learn about figuring the morning and leave the farm at noon. One toes or onions next year, with very low additional costs of production, see Fearless Farm Finances, person can do that market, and is home by 8 p.m. marketing costs. the 264-page farm finance book published by The Cabbageburg nursing home is 30 minutes in In this example we just looked at one product: MOSES. It is available at mosesorganic.net.) the other direction. Each sales call will take 1.5 carrots. You can use this model to look at your Once your product is ready to harvest and hours for one person. market at any scale—from everything you sell to market, your costs may change for differing Looking at the results of the analysis below, we one or a few items. Just fill in the numbers appro- markets. For example, if you’re selling wholesale, can see that if we want to continue selling bunch priate to the sector of your production that you you may be able to use equipment to harvest and carrots at Beetville, we must raise our price. want to assess. A market cost assessment such as clean your beets or carrots. However, a CSA or We actually lost $26 selling carrots at $2.50 per this can be very useful in helping you gauge the farmers’ market may require you to put extra bunch there this year. While it is a lot less work potential success of a future market or the value time into hand harvesting, washing and strip- to sell at the nursing home, our net profit per of a market you are currently using. ping damaged leaves so you can present a pretty unit is lower due to the much lower selling price. bunch of greens with your roots. In the same If we could sell the nursing home more items or Jody Padgham is the financial director for MOSES and vein, a lamb marketed directly to consumers as more carrots each time we go, we could split the editor of the book Fearless Farm Finances. meat will be grown out longer than one sold live as a feeder, adding additional management and feeding time, not to mention the costs to butcher, cut and package. Sample Market Assessment These are hypothetical numbers to show how the assessment works. Market Types Anyone selling in more than one market Carrottown Beetville Cabbageburg Quantity sold 400 1# bunches 200 1# bunches 600 lbs bulk type, or considering new types of marketing, will benefit from an assessment of the cost Labor to wash & bunch 9 hours 5 hours 0 hours Harvest each week of each market. While market opportunity Labor to wash and box 0 hours 0 hours 5 hours Harvest once & store for diversified farmers is ever-expanding, the Total carrot prep labor 9 hrs 5 hrs 5 hrs most common markets are: Prep labor @ $12/hour 9 x 12=$108 5 x 12=$60 5 x 12=$60

• Direct sales to customers through Drive & sell time 20 x 2 x 8.5=340 20 x 1 x 6=120 4 x 1 x 1.5=6 (events x people x hrs) farmers’ market or farm stand Sales/market development 8 hrs 8 hrs 2 hrs Market allocat for carrots 15% 15% 100% • Direct sales to customers through sub- Allocated market labor 348 x 15%=52.2 128 x 15%=19.2 8 x 100%=8 scription Community Supported Market labor value @ $12 52.2 x 12=$626 19.2 x 12=$230 8 x 12=$96 Agriculture (CSA) Cost of display $200 $200 0 • Direct sales through home delivery, Mileage & truck cost 20 x 60 x .55=$660 20 x 90 x .55=$990 4 x 60 x .55=$132 (events x dist. x cost) online, etc. Bags & other supplies $100 $75 0 Phone calls, etc. $10 $10 $20 • Sales to restaurants or stores Total other costs $770 $1,275 $152 • Sales to institutions, such as hospitals or Allocation for carrots 770 x 15%=$115 1,275 x 15%=$191 152 x 100%=$152 Cost of boxes $20 (reused) $10 (reused) 12 x $2=$24 (new) nursing homes Storage costs 0 0 $25 • Sales to wholesales, co-ops or other third- party marketers, processors, etc. Total costs to market 108+626+115+20=$869 60+230+191+10=$491 60+96+152+24+25=$357 Market cost/ pound sold 869/400=$2.17 491/200=$2.46 357/600=$0.59 Cost of production $0.17 $0.17 $0.17 (from Iowa State U.) Begin by determining your market alter- Total cost to grow & sell 2.17 + .17=$2.34 2.46 + .17=$2.63 .59 + .17=$0.76 natives, and at what point in production the costs vary for each market. In comparing one Current selling price $2.50 $2.50 $0.80 market to another, you will only look at how Net profit/unit 2.50 - 2.34=$0.16 2.50 - 2.63=(-$0.13) 0.80 - .76=$0.04 things change after the cost of production. Net profit/market/year .16 x 400=$64.00 -.13 x 200=(-$26.00) .04 x 600=$24.00 (above labor)

6 | November | December 2015

Silvopasture — from page 1

Silvopastures mimic or modify the workings of shelter value of evergreens, or strategic location conditions vary by tree species. For example, natural ecosystems for farm purposes. Just as for afternoon shade, aesthetics, and wildlife habi- many trees and shrubs are susceptible to iron management-intensive rotational, ultra-high tat also should be considered. chlorosis in alkaline soils, so liming may not be stock density, and patch-burn grazing practices Once you’ve thinned to your desired canopy advisable. A single-shank subsoiler or keyline mimic the way wild herds and grassland ecosys- cover, you may decide to plant forages under the plow can work wonders for root penetration and tems work, silvopasture mimics a savanna eco- trees. Some farmers like to do this to ensure for- water infiltration, but if you plant into the trench, system. Often found in transition zones between age production, while others say it’s not worth the back fill soil thoroughly around roots, or plant forest and grassland biomes, savannas include time and expense, especially on the edge of open your trees just up- or downhill of the trench. Roots trees, shrubs, and a diversity of shade-tolerant pasture where pasture grasses and forbs can come in large air gaps cannot absorb water and nutri- grasses and forbs. By some estimates, oak in on their own. I recently started a research ents, and the trench can make a nice home for savanna once covered 50 million acres of the project where after thinning the tree canopy, we’re rodents that eat tree roots and bark. Midwest. The Driftless Area, for example, was comparing a domestic seed mix, a native savanna Once trees are planted, their growth and sur- recently determined to have been about 70 per- species seed mix, and a control without any seed- vival will be enhanced by managing competing cent oak savanna prior to European settlement. ing. We are measuring plant diversity, establish- vegetation. (Although it is worth noting that some Silvopasture takes its cues from an ecosystem ment success, forage quantity, quality, and people swear by “hiding” their trees from deer by that works with our landscape and climate, utilization, so stay tuned for the results. letting weeds grow up). Depending on your fenc- adapting form and function to accomplish When planting trees into open pasture, your ing system and what type of livestock you have, agricultural goals. goals and circumstances will dictate what is best animals can help control plant competition close for your farm. You should consider where to plant to your young trees. Chickens can help keep Silvopasture in Practice the trees, what species and age of trees to plant, weeds down if you fine-tune the stocking rate. Like any farming practice, planning is key to how to prepare the site for , how to will graze up to the base of the tree row successful silvopasture. What are your goals? manage competing vegetation once trees are behind a single strand fence the right distance How will silvopastures fit into your existing sys- planted, and how to protect young trees from away. An occasional pass with a weedwhip also tems for watering, fencing, and providing shade livestock and wildlife pests. Research in the Mid- gives trees a head start. and shelter? Will the tree, forage, and livestock west to help you make these decisions is scant, but Mulch can also be used to manage competing combinations you have in mind be a good fit? here’s what I recommend. vegetation, but not all mulch is created equally. What are your time, budgetary, and knowledge When deciding where to plant, aim for uniform Conifer chips encourage brown rots, which can constraints? Addressing these questions will help shade in each paddock to keep livestock from cause problems for deciduous trees. Hardwood determine if silvopasture is a good fit for your congregating in one spot. Planting trees all along chips foster white rots, which devour lignin and farm, and what steps you need to take to establish the western edge of paddocks will provide shade leave a lot of cellulose behind, a boon for the soil and manage it. in the afternoon when animals need it most. The and its denizens. Mulch from small diameter Put most simply, silvopasture can be estab- filtered shade from trees like locust, walnut, and branches, known as ramial wood, contains more lished in two ways: planting pasture in trees or poplar will allow more grass growth than trees nutrients and a lower C:N ratio than log wood. planting trees in pasture. like maple with dense canopies. A diversity of This is important for fertility. Between 30 and 70 percent cover is often the trees can provide multiple functions, a succession You can also grow weed suppression by plant- goal for silvopastures. A tree canopy denser than of harvests, and insurance against selective pests. ing rows of protector/N-fixer/trainer/browse trees 70 percent will stifle forage growth, and one On the other hand, when you alternate different and shrubs adjacent to the trees you want to grow sparser than 30 percent risks livestock congregat- tree types you risk having the fast-growing species up straight and tall. In this arrangement you are ing around too few trees. overtop and suppress their neighbors. creating a hedge with a sheltered inner row bor- In existing woodland, forestry techniques can In general, older trees cost more and are more dered by outer “dinner” rows. be used to achieve desired tree canopy cover. Use work to plant, but take less maintenance and Protecting trees from animal damage can crop tree management: identify the high-quality provide their benefits sooner. Younger trees are make or break a young planting. Population irrup- trees and cut low-quality neighboring trees that more affordable, and you can put hundreds in the tions of insect pests like Japanese beetles occa- compete for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Young ground in a day with a tree planter—the most I sionally wreak havoc, but with trees, your main trees that reach the top of the canopy are gener- have heard of is 12,000 trees planted in a day! challenge is mammals—livestock, deer, and bark- ally selected as crop trees. But, in silvopasture Preparation of the site should address weed, devouring rodents. Protection methods run the applications, timber value and potential for soil, and drainage issues. Tillage, repeated mow- gamut: all manners of row or perimeter fencing growth may not be the only measures of quality. ing, stale seedbeds, or temporary row covers can (including electric baited with peanut butter), Filtered shade, forage value of fruit and foliage, all be used for weed control prep. Ideal soil To Silvopasture on page 8

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Book blends latest science on climate change with farmers’ experience By Audrey Arner Here on the western Minnesota prairie at Moon- Resilience is the adaptive capacity of the way we stone, our perennial polyculture farm, the season is Laura Lengnick humans manage the ecosystem. The section on ecosys- winding down. We’re moving cattle through the pad- tem processes (energy flow, the water cycle, the nutri- docks for the last rounds, have finished the fruit and nut June 2015 ent cycle, and community dynamics) draws right out harvest, and are beginning to batten down the hatches New Society Publishers of holistic management. As a devotee of Allan Savory, for whatever the winter brings. 356 pages who clarified these processes for me and thousands Our landscape, still photosynthesizing with smat- $19.95 list price of other land managers, I immediately flicked to the terings of gold and red, is a biological island amid citations and appendix checking for an attribution to the chemical and tillage-intensive agricultural lands Get it here: Savory or Holistic Management. I was disappointed that that surround us. Somewhere in the mid-1990s we mosesorganic.net there was none and the adaptive management strategy quit growing annual cash crops and, applying the les- involving goal setting, resource assessment, planning sons of the Great Prairies, chose to perennialize and and implementation, monitoring progress towards goals diversify. We did so based on a long-range vision that and re-planning fell under the often-used terminol- included an intent to protect these miraculous soils Drawing deeply from recent research and historical ogy of “Whole Farm Planning.” Why not give credit from the elements of wind and rain, to be able to farm records, Lengnick explores five categories of agricul- where credit is due since other citations were so source more intensively at home without renting other land, tural endeavor: vegetables, fruits and nuts, grains and specific? to dramatically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and livestock from the perspectives of award-winning farm- Some historical mention is made of indigenous to become generally more resilient in the face of our ers throughout all regions of the agricultural United agriculture in the Americas, but I did not find any sug- changing climate. States. Most cite more extreme weather events as being gestion of how the practical knowledge of indigenous Since being asked to talk about sustainable agricul- more pronounced in the last decade or so; a few main- cultures can help us all adjust and survive in the face of ture and climate change a few times in the last year, tain that the weather has always fluctuated. major climate change. Let’s also remember that there I’d been reading source materials with plenty of sub- I appreciate her explanation of the earliest forms will be psychological and spiritual needs ahead. stantiation for making adaptation in agriculture. Laura of agriculture: , horticulture and sedentary Lengnick interviewed a wide range of large- and Lengnick’s Resilient Agriculture includes respectable agriculture and how each adapted to ecological resource small-scale farmers across production specialties and up-to-date science, compelling testimonies, and cites limits. We are reminded that more food energy was geography, including some often-quoted farm stars the changing circumstances that ought to be affecting produced than energy invested in production, and each from the Upper Midwest like Gabe Brown from North our decision-making as solar cell operators here on the resulted in an energy profit. I loved Lengnick’s succinct Dakota, Richard DeWilde from Wisconsin, and Ron planetary surface. history of climate change, which was responsible for the Rossman from Iowa. Long-time MOSES Organic In some corners, the debate labors on whether last great ice melt 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. This led Farming Conference presenter Elizabeth Henderson climate change is sourced by human activities. Mean- to changes in the ranges of plants and animals, chang- from Peacework Organic CSA in New York is quoted while, Lengnick has worked way down the row in con- ing the mix of available food species and causing plants thusly: “You have to be so nimble these days.” sidering how we agriculturalists can position ourselves, and animals that could not adjust to the new climate Lengnick gets down to bedrock in her wrap-up our thinking, our cropping patterns, varietal selections conditions to disappear. Sedentary agriculture then section, “New Times, New Tools: Managing for Resil- and livestock management to foster our adaptive capac- reduced the profit in half for the labor calorie invested ience.” Her key qualities and considerations of resilient ities. All this will be necessary to not only more effec- and made possible the human population explosion we systems—some of which are more familiar to sustain- tively sequester carbon in soils, but also to withstand continue to experience. able farmers than others—are worth deeply examining the onslaughts of extreme weather episodes we will Her concise history of the rise of industrial agricul- as we together move through the uncertain, disturbing encounter with greater frequency. ture and the U.S. food supply is rich in data. This serves and unexpected effects on food production. In digging deeper, I probe for what big shifts in as an important basis for laying out how we can better As the leaves fall, and the cover crops are seeded, thought and action might carry us through the changing understand the situation at hand and what needs to be the livestock preparations for freeze-up are in place, climate and all its related erratic precipitation, tempera- considered in making adaptations. In understanding Resilient Agriculture will make for provocative early ture fluctuations and violent storm events. There have agricultural exposure and how we might reduce it, winter brain food. Give it a read before you begin farm been some great sources of inspiration, particularly I especially appreciated the need to understand the planning for the next growing season so that it can among the permaculture community. Still, I find myself sensitivities of species, production systems, natural nourish your decision making. yearning for more substantiation for advocating for the resources, management challenges, threats to built kind of agriculture that I love. I knew I was going to eat infrastructures and production costs. Audrey Arner and her husband, Richard Handeen, own up this new publication from New Society Publishers. and operate Moonstone Farm near Montevideo, Minn.

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Silvopasture — from page 6 steel cage fortification (such as hog panel or Pasture performance has also been the subject chicken wire), tree tubes (such as those sold by of silvopasture research, testing how trees within Southwest Badger RC&D), wire mesh or plastic pastures affect forage quality, quantity, and avail- spiral base guards (essential where there is heavy ability. One potential benefit of silvopasture is a vole pressure), odor repellents raptor roosts and less drastic slump in forage yield during summer owl houses, and farm dogs and cats. What works months. Decreased production in shaded pastures best on each farm will vary. Since protection is during the spring flush can be a small price to pay often one of the most critical and costly parts of for paddocks that continue to grow later in the planting trees, it pays to find what works, and to year when open pastures go dormant. not do more than necessary. There is no substitute It may not just be shade that keeps the grass for experience—I often advise farmers to start green under trees during heat spells and with a test plot to experiment with different droughts. Through a process called hydraulic lift, methods of tree protection. some deep-rooted trees actually bring water up from lower soil horizons, where it is used by neigh- Livestock, Pasture Performance boring plants. Although no one has reported Goats enjoy access to new pasture at Lily Springs Farm in Osceola, Wis. Silvopasture can offer improved livestock and hydraulic lift occurring in silvopastures, it has Photo by Tobias Carter pasture performance, added income from forest been documented in potential silvopasture tree crops, and restored ecological functions. genera such as pine and oak. Moisture retained Livestock performance in silvopasture systems from slower snow melt can also impact seasonal research is testing silvopasture establishment as has been a key issue for researchers. University forage growth in silvopastures. a tool for restoring native savanna structure to studies in Kentucky, Missouri, and Arkansas have Studies have also shown improvements in degraded farm woodlots. Besides biodiversity all shown increased weight gain in beef cattle that forage quality under partially shaded conditions. benefits, other potential gains in silvopasture have access to shade. Studies in Florida and Vir- Researchers at Iowa State showed in vitro digest- ecosystem functions can be realized in nutrient ginia have shown increased milk production from ible dry matter was 3-5 percent greater for grasses cycling, soil conservation, cows that have shade. Two other studies in grown under partial shade, compared to those in trees and soil, improved soil hydraulic grown in full sun. Another study in Missouri function, and water quality. showed higher protein and lower fiber content in Not all trees in pastures restore ecosystem annual ryegrass and cereal rye grown under a function. A few trees by a creek where dozens of pine and walnut canopy, compared to treeless cattle congregate and erode the riparian area will pasture controls. This study also showed that, not restore anything. Likewise, continuous access although cumulative forage production over sev- to woods will just lead to compacted soil, sick eral years was reduced by about 20 percent in the trees, and diminished wildlife and plant diversity. silvopasture, beef heifers grazed in the silvopas- Without adaptive planning and management, ture showed no difference in gains than animals these are not actually even examples of in the open pasture controls, likely because the silvopasture. silvopastures grew forage of better quality. Turning livestock out into a single pasture for Many of these studies are from hotter parts of the season does not qualify as managed grazing, the country, where heat stress and summer pas- and by the same token simply giving livestock ture slump are more serious concerns. The climate access to the woods or having a couple of trees in extremes we are increasingly subject to in the the pasture does not count as silvopasture. Mis- Upper Midwest suggest that we might do well to managed livestock have a long history of degrad- take lessons from folks in warmer, dri er places. ing prairies, savannas, forests, wetlands, and riparian areas. For example, studies have shown Tree Products that decades after farmers started excluding live- Pigs turn up a former raspberry patch at Hoch Orchards Growing trees with long, branchless trunks to stock from hillsides in the Driftless Area the in La Crescent, Minn. make high-value saw logs can be a challenge in improved water infiltration has increased flow Photo by Tobias Carter silvopastures, given the partially open canopy. In rate from springheads, which has helped restore natural forests and plantations, shade from neigh- trout habitat. Florida and Missouri observed nearly twice the boring trees inhibits branching. That said, after a Silvopasture is not a fancy word to excuse conception rate in beef cattle with shade compared thinning, large dominant trees grow fewer new abuse of healthy natural areas. It is a method of to those without. branches than young and overtopped trees. Some intensive management that integrates trees to Production losses due to heat stress can begin research has shown that crop trees retained when profitably raise livestock and care for the land. at temperatures as modest as 78 degrees Fahren- establishing silvopasture maintain their timber Visit our website www.savannainstitute.org to heit. The University of Missouri has a smartphone value, and even increase their growth rate. see examples of farms practicing silvopasture and app called Thermal Aid that helps assess signs of As previously mentioned, trees planted for other savanna-mimicking farming techniques. heat stress in your herd. Learn more about the timber can also be trained to straight branchless Get in touch to join in these efforts. app at thermalnet.missouri.edu. growth via interplanting with fast-growing Winter shelter can also impact livestock perfor- “nurse” trees. These nurse trees can be harvested Keefe Keeley is the executive director of the Savanna Insti- mance. Animals without adequate shelter in win- early for many purposes, from pulp to firewood to tute, a nonprofit that carries out case studies of savanna- ter require more feed to maintain body condition. mushroom inoculum. Leguminous nurse trees can based agriculture across the Midwest. He has a master’s also fertilize crop trees while being coppiced or degree in agroecology from the University of Wisconsin. browsed for fodder. Many “weed” trees like locust, box elder, and mulberry have leaves of high forage quality, making them potential candidates for the “dinner” rows of a hedge that protects and trains inner timber rows. Silvopastures can also integrate human food production with fodder for livestock. Orchards that pasture fowl early in the season to eat insect pests or hogs to clean up after fruit harvest exemplify this stacked enterprise strategy. It is important to be aware of food safety regulations regarding livestock use and wastes where produce is grown, while also recognizing the potential of livestock as a tool in orchard sanitation and vegetation management.

Restoring Ecosystem Function Silvopasture, when well managed, can restore ecological features and functions to farmland. The practice mimics savanna ecosystems, where diverse plant types add habitat for declining savanna specialists like the redheaded wood- pecker and the whippoorwill. Some of my ongoing mosesorganic.org | 715-778-5775 | 9

Research at Iowa State University shows how no-till works in organic system By Kathleen Delate No-till or reduced tillage has been proven to Researchers use USDA-ARS, Ames, Iowa, has documented provide multiple environmental benefits on con- a water wheel increases in soil carbon and microbial biomass transplanter ventional farms, particularly in the area of soil to put broccoli carbon and nitrogen in the organic no-till system conservation. The practice also reduces costs asso- into rolled and compared to the normal, tilled organic system. ciated with machinery, labor and fuel. On organic crimped hairy The challenge remains to balance improving soil farms, no-tillage systems had been constrained vetch-rye cover quality with maintaining optimal yields. Cam- by the prohibition of herbicides to terminate cover crop mix. bardella has found some interesting results, too, crops. To overcome this barrier, the Rodale Insti- with the no-till organic systems sequestering tute began investigating using a roller/crimper to Photo by more soil carbon than tilled plots. Nitrate leach- Kathleen Delate crush cover crops in lieu of herbicide termination ing is also reduced in the cover crop-based sys- to fit within organic rules. This roller/crimper tems compared to completely tilled plots. can be purchased or manufactured using plans We have found that the vegetable systems are published online at rodaleinstitute.org/our-work/ (Erin Silva) to more amenable to organic no-till compared to organic-no-till/no-till-rollercrimper-plans. examine the row crops, due to our ability to use drip irrigation In 2006, the Rodale Institute invited Iowa effect of five during the crucial period when cover crops are State University (ISU) to join a consortium with cover crops on decomposing and the cash crop needs additional Rodale and UC-Davis, Michigan State (MSU), organic corn moisture. In Florida’s sandy soils, no-till summer University of Georgia and Virginia Tech to par- production. squash yields were equal or greater than tilled ticipate in the first multi-state research on no-till We planted yields. We saw no significant difference between systems for organic farming. As a member of the legume-based no-till and plastic mulch, which is phenomenal, USDA-NRCS Conservation Innovation Grant cover crops (e.g., hairy vetch and field pea) before when you consider how much additional savings for No-Till for Organic Systems (“No-Till Plus”), high-nitrogen-demanding crops, like corn and veg- Floridians could obtain by not using plastic mulch. I conducted the first research on organic no-till etables, and rye before soybeans. In warmer Organic no-till holds the most promise in systems in Iowa that year. climates (Florida, for example), sunn hemp was warmer climates because of the potential for early Our results were encouraging enough to used as the cover crop. cover crop planting, continuous cover crop growth warrant an expansion of this research in 2008 We have learned an incredible amount from over the winter months, and earlier termination through a consortium of six institutions (ISU, these studies, including the importance of weather dates in the spring. Sandier soils also seem to Rodale, MSU, University of Wisconsin (UW), conditions when practicing organic no-till. When be more amenable to organic no-till, as has been University of Minnesota, North Dakota State spring and summer rains fall evenly and ade- demonstrated in both Florida and Pennsylva- University (NDSU), funded by the USDA-NRI quately, as they did in 2009, organic no-till soy- nia, where even no-till corn yields were high. A Integrated Organic Program. bean yields ranged from 37 to 45 bushels per acre, mechanical issue (e.g., the ability of the roller/ In 2010, another project was funded with the which is an excellent organic tofu-variety soybean crimper to sink deeper into the soil and crush the University of Florida on organic no-till vegetable yield, especially when you consider no post-plant- cover crop that much better) may be a factor here. systems by the NIFA-Organic Transitions Pro- ing tillage was performed to manage weeds. ISU has a video showing the roller/crimper gram. ISU also participated in a USDA-SARE Francis Thicke, organic farmer in Fairfield, in action that explains how no-till works in an project, Organic Corn in No-Till Systems, in Iowa, drilled his organic no-till soybeans on 7– organic system. See www.leopold.iastate.edu/ partnership with NDSU (Pat Carr) and UW inch rows this year, as opposed to our 30–inch news/on-the-ground/organic-no-till-farming. rows. He is expecting over 40 bushels per acre with no weed management. Our concern had Kathleen Delate is a professor of organic agriculture at been that, by moving to 7–inch rows, we could Iowa State University, and directs the Organic Agriculture not perform any “rescue” cultivating if needed. Program there. However, based on Thicke’s experience, we are ready to try 7–inch rows next year. Yields in the organic no-till vegetable systems we have studied in Iowa (broccoli, tomatoes, pep- pers and lettuce) have been competitive with conventional yields when sufficient biomass is produced by the cover crop, and moisture levels are kept adequate through irrigation. We’ve found that planting the cover crop at 1.5 to 2 bu/acre is best. Sweet corn, however, performs best in tilled sys- tems, which is what we found for field corn,too. Ideal results occur when the cover crop can be crushed early in the spring (before May 15) when the rye reaches, or is past, anthesis (pollen shed). Soybeans emerge through no-till rye. Research This timing has become more difficult in recent showed best results when rye was rolled and crimped years with global climate change creating cooler, early in the spring when it reached anthesis. Broccoli transplants grow well with a hairy vetch-rye wetter springs, slowing cover crop growth. mulch. 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Pack your plaid for annual MOSES Conference By Lauren Langworthy The time is coming to dust off your for posing! Get a group shot with your favorite plaid and make plans for the family and friends or snap a few great 27th Annual MOSES Organic Farming farmer selfies (also known as “felfies”) and Conference. This much-loved weekend of share them through your favorite social learning, laughing, and eating well will media using #MOSES2016 so others can take place at the La Crosse Center in La find your pics. Crosse, Wis. Feb. 25-27, 2016. We’re thrilled to announce this year’s Whether you’re a long-time organic Grow inspired! keynote speakers: Eric Lee Mäder, the farmer, a New Organic Steward, or Pollinator Conservation and Ag Biodiver- curious about organic production meth- sity Program Co-Director at the Xerces ods, you’ll have a fun and informative Society for Invertebrate Conservation; experience with over 3,000 other farm- and, Mary Jo Forbord, a farmer and con- ers and advocates of the family farm. servationist. She and her husband, While you’re at the conference, you’ll Luverne, raise cattle on their farm in have the opportunity to attend your Starbuck, Minn. They will be co-present- choice of insightful workshops, relax and 27 TH ing a workshop on the topic of pasture ANNUAL converse over organic meals, revel with management. hundreds of others at the caller-led con- For our tech-savvy attendees, make tra dance, find some wonderful new sure to download the MOSES Conference resources for your library in the MOSES app, available Nov. 30, to stay in the loop. Bookstore, explore the two-floor Exhibit Besides providing all the details from the Hall, catch an engaging film, or partici- ORGANIC conference program, the app gives you pate in a Roundtable discussion. another way to connect with other confer- Over the years, we’ve tried out a lot of FARMING ence-goers. It has its own message feed new things, and have been narrowing in CONFERENCE and links to Instagram and other social on what works best. The 2016 MOSES sites. Through the app, you can also access Conference will use the staggered morn- Feb. 25–27, 2016 shuttle service schedules, maps for the La ing schedule we introduced last year. La Crosse , Wis. Crosse Center and surrounding area, and This allows you to choose either an contact information for members of your earlier or later workshop within each favorite farming community. We recom- morning session. You still get to enjoy mend downloading the app before the six sessions throughout the event, but conference so you can bookmark work- you also get the benefits of less hallway shops and must-see exhibitors. It will be congestion and more time to network, available through our website and your process, wander, and meet up with registration confirmation. friends both old and new. The Registration Guide—that handy There will also be a few new changes Registration opens Nov. 30: booklet with all the workshops—will be in to the conference layout. The first thing mosesorganic.org/conference your mailbox in late November. If your you’ll notice is that you’ll enter through copy hasn’t arrived by Dec. 15, go on our new doors this year. They’re just to the website for a downloadable version or call right of the doors you’ve always used; there will likely to notice, though, is that we’ve reconfigured the office to have one mailed to you. be signs to guide you. This will keep the lobby the Dining Hall to provide more seats as we all We hope you are as excited as we are to add much warmer so those wonderful volunteers at share wonderful meals. another year onto the long-standing tradition of Check-In won’t need their parkas. Speaking of sharing—you’ll have some new fantastic conferences. Hope to see you in La Coat racks and free resources have new opportunities to show off your plaid at this year’s Crosse this February! homes, so take a minute with your program map conference, as well! Keep your eyes open for the and watch for signs. The change you’re most photo booth and a great new backdrop—perfect Lauren Langworthy is MOSES’ Event & Education Specialist.

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Intensive, full-day courses offer chance to learn more about farming topics Organic University™ gives farmers the chance on your own farm. Learn how to organically man- for in-depth education on a particular farming age weeds, pests and diseases, and farm with topic. These 10 courses are taught by experienced minimal off-farm inputs. See how to use cover farmers and educators. Each course includes a crops and green manures in a crop rotation custom-made companion resource book. scheme that recycles nutrients, builds soil health Courses run from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, and disrupts pest and weed cycles. And, find out Feb. 26 at the La Crosse Center in La Crosse, which records you’ll need to keep to achieve and Wis. (just prior to the MOSES Organic Farming maintain organic certification. Conference). Registration opens Nov. 30. Since class size is limited by room capacity, popular to ensure reliable production, handling and deliv- Transitioning and Beginning Organic Dairy topics can fill up quickly. ery, as well as a family-size income. This course Dr. Brad Heins, Dr. Guy Jodarski For more information about pricing and regis- will help you decide which equipment will work Strong consumer demand for organic dairy tration, see mosesorganic.org/organic-university. best for your farming system. Two experienced products makes this a great time to transition to market farmers will explain how they handle organic. If you are a conventional dairy farmer, Manage Your Way to Farm Success tillage, weed control, pests, transplanting, seeding, this course will give you the comprehensive, prac- Chris Blanchard material handling, irrigation and more. They’ll tical knowledge you need to make a successful A successful farming operation requires not show off their favorite tools, and make recommen- transition to organic production. If you’ve just only plenty of technical know-how, but also some dations to help you assemble affordable tools that started in organic dairy farming, you’ll gain serious management skills. Learn how to use a work with diverse crops, weather and skills. They’ll insights from these respected experts to help you systematic approach to create predictable results also explain how to convert a gas-powered tractor improve your operation. Learn how to improve in all aspects of farm management—production, to electric, and talk about tractor maintenance, pastures starting with the soil. Explore organic employees, administration, and finances. From safety, and simple repairs to keep work moving. dairy nutrition and feeding options for your whole big ideas down to practical examples, this engag- herd, from calves to dry cows, plus how to man- ing session will help you understand and control Exploring Advanced Organic Management of age herd health and treat problems organically. the factors that lead to a successful and profitable Row Crops, Small Grains and Forages You’ll also learn about the records to keep to help farm that won’t drive you and your family crazy. Jonathan and Carolyn Olson, Jack Erisman, Joel Gruver you achieve and maintain your organic certifica- Expand your knowledge of organic row crop, tion as well as track the success of strategies you Understanding and Enhancing Living Soil small grain and forage production through this use on your farm. Ray Archuleta and Gabe Brown course with experienced and experimentative Uncover the mysteries and complexity of soil practitioners. They’ll cover ways to minimize soil Medicinal Herb Production life to see how to mimic natural systems to revive disturbance while staying competitive in an Jeff and Melanie Carpenter degenerated land, minimize erosion, and encour- organic system; equipment and strategies for This course covers the process of growing high age nutrient-dense plant growth. Numerous dem- effective weed management plus specific problem- value quality products from seed through field onstrations will help you understand the living atic weeds in mature organic fields; using GPS management, post-harvest handling, drying, soil and its water-holding capacity, fertility needs, technology for efficiency; and, dealing with the storage and marketing. Discover how to find your and crop/forage production potential. See the major pests while bringing in acceptable yields. markets, configure the layout and design of your financial impact of soil conservation farming, The panel also will explore nutrient management farm’s infrastructure, choose tools, prepare beds which requires fewer off-farm inputs while at the through cover crops and interseeding, unique and and fields, propagate plants, and control or pre- same time increases productivity even in times of effective crop rotations, and soil and plant testing. vent weeds, pests and disease. You’ll also learn extreme weather. You’ll also learn about various about medicinal qualities of specific herbs and cover crops, crop rotations and farming systems Transitioning to Organic Row Crops, Grains, how to best retain those qualities, and how to to enhance the living soil on your farm. and Forages produce value-added products from your herbs. Jeff Moyer Tools of the Trade: Machinery and Equipment The organic marketplace continues to grow at Integrating Livestock and Vegetables on Vegetable Farms a rapid pace and needs more farmers. This course Kay Jensen, Paul Ehrhardt, Harry Carr Steve Pincus and Adam Cullip will cover organic farming practices as well as the The benefits of integrating livestock in your To grow your farming operation, you need an steps you’ll need to take to successfully imple- vegetable operation are many. Livestock assure evolving kit of tools, machinery and equipment ment this vibrant and profitable farming system To Organic University on page 15

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Reap more rewards from your conference investment By Chris Blanchard Upcoming Every winter, I look forward to making the your plans – plus, some conference apps allow Farming Conferences rounds of farming conferences near and far. I get you to download handouts before the conference, to see old friends, get new ideas, make new con- giving you a chance to preview workshop informa- 2015 SOIL Conference nections, and find inspiration for the year ahead. tion in more depth. You may also be able to high- Nov. 19-20 | Des Moines, Iowa I’ve never been to a farming conference where light exhibitors, workshops, and other things you I didn’t take away enough information to pay back want to make sure you don’t miss. Iowa Organic Conference the time and money I spent to get there. Even You may also want to make appointments to Nov. 22-23 | Iowa City, Iowa for the most expensive conferences, the invest- meet people ahead of time, especially at a big ment pays back quickly, and the new knowledge event. It’s easy to miss people if you just leave it Midwest CSA Conference becomes a permanent asset that provides returns to chance. Dec. 3-4 | Eau Claire, Wis. year after year. Prepare Your Kit - Finally, pack your business Unfortunately, it’s pretty easy to go to a confer- cards, a pen, and some paper. I really like to Acres U.S.A. Conference and Trade Show ence and let the knowledge and connections slip carry a clipboard with lots of fresh paper avail- Dec. 8-11 | Pittsburgh, Penn. right on by. Approaching a conference like an able, since the notes pages in the back of the con- investment can help you make the most of game- ference program don’t always have a lot of room. Conservation Tillage Conference changing suggestions, enriching connections, and You’ll probably want a tote bag or a pocket file to Dec. 15-16 | Willmar, Minn. big opportunities, even if you have to get right stuff all of the brochures from the exhibit hall— into the greenhouse or field upon your return. I really like the expanding files that close with a Illinois Specialty Crops, Agritourism, and flap and an elastic band. When that one key idea Organic Conference Preparing For a Conference or one life-changing contact comes along, you Jan. 6-8 | Springfield, Ill. As in the rest of farming, taking a little time don’t want to be stuck without the tools you need to prepare will dramatically increase your likeli- to make the most of it—and you don’t want to be Great Plains Growers Conference hood of getting great results from your conference fumbling with a pile of papers under your seat Jan. 7-9 | St. Joseph, Mo. investment. when it’s time to go to the next workshop! Set Goals – Once you’ve decided to go to a con- Minnesota Organic Conference ference, decide what questions you hope to get At the Show Jan. 8-9 | St. Cloud, Minn. answered. I find that it’s easier to get concrete The show isn’t all about work, but a few key results when I identify specific questions, rather actions can dramatically increase the long-term GrassWorks Grazing Conference than just an area of interest: “How should I orga- value you derive from an event. Jan. 14-16 | Wisconsin Dells, Wis. nize my packing shed to maximize workflow and Engage the Material – Yep, it’s just like being ergonomics?” rather than, “I want to know more back in school. You can increase your retention by 2016 Organic Agriculture Research about packing shed organization.” actively engaging with each workshop you attend, Symposium You might want to challenge yourself with rather than passively taking in information. Jan. 20 | Pacific Grove, Calif. other goals, as well. I will ask questions in three Interpret key points for how they apply to your workshops, I will meet five other dairy farmers, situation, rather than just writing them down. EcoFarm Conference and I will walk by every booth in the exhibit hall Rather than just writing, “Point shovel points Jan. 20-23 | Pacific Grove, Calif. are all worthy objectives. down to move more soil into the row,” add a note: Plan Your Time – Take time to review the work- “would help with weedy broccoli!” NPSAS 37th Annual Winter Conference shops as well as everything else on offer. Many Identify Actions – I take prolific notes, so it can Jan. 21-23 | Aberdeen, S.D. conferences have a lot more going on than just be hard to identify the concrete actions I need to workshops. It’s easy to miss these other opportu- take, whether it’s following up an idea or recon- Practical Farmers of Iowa Conference nities, especially if they happen while the work- necting with a contact. Even where I don’t write Jan. 22-23 | Ames, Iowa shops are going. down a lot of information, I like to write a dash Organizers often post the conference pro- (-) to the left of each action item; when I scan my Wis. Fruit & Vegetable Grower Conference gram, with expanded workshop descriptions and notes after the conference, I can quickly identify Jan. 24-26 | Wisconsin Dells, Wis. updated schedules, in the days or weeks before an items to put on my task list, and show that I’ve event. Figure out where you’re likely to get your done it by turning the dash (-) into a plus (+). Organic Seed Growers Conference questions answered, and what presenters you Ask Questions – Please, ask questions! Speak- Feb. 4-6 | Corvallis, Ore. might want to connect with after their workshop ers dread having a disengaged audience. There is over. Once you get to an event, you’re probably are few things more unnerving than leaving the Sustainable Farming Association Conference going to be challenged to find your way around requested 10 minutes for questions at the end of a Feb. 13 | St. Joseph, Minn. and navigate the crowds – reading a substantial talk and facing a silent audience. Remember the program is probably not on the menu once you’re questions you wrote down in preparation? Now is Midwest Soil Health Summit on-site. the time to get them answered. Feb. 17-18 | Alexandria, Minn. More and more events are offering a confer- Make Connections – Don’t immerse yourself in ence app for your smart phone, which can make a your phone or the conference materials between 27th MOSES Organic Farming Conference nice addition to your conference planning by pro- sessions. Smile, be open, approach people and be Feb. 25-27 | La Crosse, Wis. viding another lens to look through as you make approachable. 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Farmers find strength marketing together in rural Northern Wisconsin By Kelli Boylen Bayfield Foods is proof that there often is great May to October, twice in November, then once a added only by invitation from an existing producer- strength in collective marketing. The cooperative month until the last delivery in March. That way member, and must be approved by both the board started when some local meat producers wanted to producers can take a month off of delivery in April. and the general membership. cross-market each other’s products, and five years New shares start back up in May. Winter shares Jaeger said much of the decision-making and later things continue to bloom. typically do not include fruit. communication is done via email. The CSA season “We realized that the customers buying grass- The cooperative also supplies local foods to is well planned out in advance. “Organization is fed beef were likely the same people that were Northland College, a private college in Ashland. key!” she said. There are bylaws and procedures for looking for pastured pork or lamb,” explained The college purchased more than $50,000 worth of everything, and communication is very important to Chris Duke, a charter member. “The next step was goods in 2014. making it all work. And, of course, there are the having mixed meat boxes that customers could get “There is definitely an increase in the number members who are willing to put in unpaid time to with a variety of different meats in them. People of folks wanting local, sustainable food,” Jaeger do what needs to be done. really liked the convenience of getting it all in one said. She noted that a CAFO (concentrated animal Nortunen is the primary beef producer for the stop,” Duke added. “So we got to thinking about all feeding operation) is in the process of locating in co-op and the current president of Bayfield Foods. the other great products that farms were raising in Northern Wisconsin, which has made more local This is his second year serving in the lead role and the area—like fruit, cheese, bakery, other value residents think about where their food comes from. third year of serving on the board. “I joined because added goods, and vegetables—and how the CSA I was looking for a way to diversify my farm income concept would allow us to get the product from and not be reliant on commodity pricing,” he said. different area producers into a single box, working He enjoys the opportunity to be part of a collabo- with a system where logistics were streamlined.” ration that provides multiple sales opportunities, Bayfield Foods was created in 2010 with 20 including both local and regional sales via a CSA, original members. In just five short years, the wholesale (stores and restaurants), special orders, cooperative has clearly demonstrated its worth. and even shipping directly to consumers’ homes. “Why wouldn’t you want to be part of a diversified “We currently market more than 100 distinct local cooperative that has a proven multi-year products and almost all of Bayfield Foods sales track record with significant yearly sales growth dollars go directly to our local producers,” Nortunen that helps support over 20 producer-members?” said. “Working with over 20 different producers has asked charter member David Nortunen. allowed us to collaborate and network together. The Founding members are excited to have been CSA has been very instrumental in keeping my able to increase sales enough to bring in additional business profitable as I am able to sell all parts of producers. Sales have increased 20 percent just in the animal including less popular cuts like roasts as the last year. opposed to only selling wholesale where all they Bayfield Foods currently has 24 producer-mem- want is ground beef, and I get stuck with a signifi- bers and is putting out 145 CSA shares a week in cant amount of other cuts that do not sell nearly as the warmer months as well as shares once a month well as ground beef.” in the winter. The Bayfield Regional Food Produc- Great Oak Farm grows most of the carrots for the Nortunen is a fourth-generation owner of Hidden- ers Cooperative (BRFPC), which is the group’s Bayfield Foods CSA. Storage is split between the farm’s Vue Farm, which has been in his family for more formal name, started primarily as a marketing- root cellar and the Bayfield Foods shared cooler. than 100 years. They primarily raise and sell Red focused cooperative, but the organization’s mission Photo by Chris Duke Devon beef cattle as well as some St. Croix lamb. is growing. It now manages a successful CSA, and They farm around 600 acres, and usually have is looking at ways to improve its distribution Bayfield Foods has been working hard to have a between 200 and 300 animals on the farm. network. strong online presence including a Facebook recipe Duke, who owns and operates Great Oak Farm, Bayfield Foods operates the Lake Superior page and a website (bayfieldfoods.org). The group said he was interested in the cooperative to reach CSA, South Shore Meats wholesale program and holds events where people can taste local foods and more markets. the Bayfield Shores Harvest Trail. Producer-mem- meet the farmers who produce it. The cooperative “Our primary markets prior to becoming bers choose to participate in any or all of the pro- also markets by setting up a booth at local wellness involved in the Lake Superior CSA were the local grams on a fee-for-service basis. In addition, fairs and events such as Big Top Chautauqua. farmers’ market, and a little wholesale to the local Bayfield Foods works to find financial and other Word of mouth from satisfied buyers also helps sell food cooperative,” he explained. “I realized that, in resources to support individual producer-members. CSA shares. order to make a living from farming, I would need Stefanie Jaeger, Lake Superior CSA Manager, “Some of the marketing is simply teaching peo- to sell a higher volume of produce. Ashland is our said the cooperative’s efforts give all producers an ple that they do have an alternative to going to the closest ‘city.’ With a population of only 8,000 people, equal shot at getting their products to the public. grocery store,” Jaeger added. “We couldn’t do all sales are limited. Working with the other growers Most of the CSA shares are “whole diet” shares this without our great drop off locations. They take in the cooperative helped to pool our resources and which include fruits, vegetables and meats. Others the time to help out because they believe in what afford a delivery van to get our products further out are bakery or coffee-only shares. CSA members we are doing.” Some host drop offs in exchange for into and better serve our community.” can also get a “plus” share and get value-added a share; others simply do it to help. “Also, selling directly to consumers at market is products such as fermented goods, goat and sheep Bayfield Foods is operated by a board of direc- great, but you are really limited by the weather— cheese, spritzers, maple syrup, honey, jams and tors and has several committees directly pertain- rainy days usually mean very few sales,” he added. jellies, coffees and baked goods. ing to the creation and operation of each of the “Since becoming one of the primary veggie growers Shares of veggies and meats go out weekly from Bayfield Foods programs. New producers can be in our cooperative–Lake Superior CSA–I definitely

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Aquaponics — from page 1 Haider asserts that certification was a must from for potential indoor the start. “It’s how we eat, it’s how we live,” he air-quality issues. stated. They had a very positive experience work- These elements are ing with MCIA, and Haider feels that the interac- closely monitored tion with the organic inspector taught them how using science-based to operate more efficiently. methods in this highly The certification of hydroponics and aquapon- controlled, closed ics under the USDA Organic label continues system. The intended to be a polarized issue. In 2010, the National result is a resource- Organic Standards Board (NOSB) recommended efficient method for with a vote of 12 to 1 that the USDA shouldn’t growing a lot of allow organic crops to be produced using hydro- cosmetically attractive ponic and aquaponic methods. They reasoned food. that organic crops produced in soilless systems How does it fit into don’t align with the organic principle of “feed the the National Organic soil, not the plant.” However, the USDA defines Program (NOP)? organic production as “a production system that is Despite the NOSB’s Urban Organics’ co-founders are (left to right) Chris Ames, Dave Haider, Kristen managed in accordance with the (Organic Foods nearly unanimous vote Koontz Haider, and Fred Haberman. Production) Act and regulations in this part to in 2010, the USDA- Photo by Urban Organics respond to site-specific conditions by integrating NOP did not act on cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that the recommendation. The NOP recently a positive step in further defining the methods foster cycling of resources, promote ecological bal- appointed a new Hydroponic and Aquaponic within organic certification guidelines, and feels ance, and conserve biodiversity.” Soil isn’t present Task Force to re-examine the methods and make that it is too soon to make a judgment about the in the language of the definition. However, there recommendations on organic certification of outcome given that the task force is scheduled to are guidelines within the organic regulations hydroponic and aquaponic operations. Those are share their findings a year from now. Right now, that specifically refer to soil fertility building and expected in fall 2016. he’s very busy opening a new aquaponic facility. health maintenance. Dave Chapman of Long Wind Farm has Pentair Aquatic Eco-systems, the largest For now, aquaponic and hydroponic operations grown certified organic tomatoes in Vermont soil global source of aquaculture systems and prod- are inspected and certified according to individual since 1984. He built his first glass greenhouses ucts, announced a formal collaboration with UO certifying agencies, and those standards can vary. in 1990. He currently sits on the NOP task force, in September. Together, they are transforming Haider states that aquaponics has the potential and takes a strong stance against the allow- the former 87,000-square-foot Schmidt Brewery of producing more food with less water, fossil fuels ance of hydroponics and aquaponics. A long-time building in St. Paul into one of the largest com- and waste than traditional farming. In the “food organic farmer, he believes in the basic organic mercial aquaponics facilities in the world. The desert” of East St. Paul, veggies and protein are system foundation of stewarding the soil to feed new facility will enable UO to go from growing direly needed. The USDA Agricultural Marketing the plant, and is concerned about the unintended the 24,000 pounds of produce they currently pro- Resource Center (AgMRC) at Iowa State Univer- consequences of fertilizers used. duce to a potential 400,000 pounds. Not to men- sity agrees with Haider. According to their online “Soil is the basis,” he states simply, “Aquapon- tion the 275,000 pounds total of cold water trout, Aquaponics Profile in July 2013, aquaponics uses ics are not organics. I have great friends who are char and salmon they intend to grow to meet 10 percent of the land area and 5 percent of the aquaponics and hydroponic growers and appreci- local retail and restaurant demand. Planning is water used to grow conventional vegetables out- ate the sophistication of the system. Call it what underway with hopes of harvesting the first fish side of a greenhouse in soil. The grow lights and it is, though, because organic means something and certified organic produce by summer 2016. nutrients added to the growing medium also allow else.” He suggests something along the lines of some crops to cut their growing time in half. “Aquaponic Unsprayed” as a label. Jennifer Nelson, MOSES organic specialist, and her hus- Aquaponic growers trade weather challenges Dave Haider feels that the task force could be band, Mike Leck, own Humble Pie Farm in Plum City, Wis.

Conference Tips — from page 12 connections, and a room full of strangers can be about cultivating tools resource.” at the event. By changing the context and the for- a lonely place. Walk right up, introduce yourself, Lightly Process Notes and Materials – Empty mat of the information, your brain uses different and ask about the other person. out your tote bag or pocket file every night, so pathways to log the same information, improving Make the Most of Connections – Use your busi- that you’ve got room for the next day. Clear off your ability to remember and access it later. ness cards liberally. Handing out a card is a great your clipboard of the day’s notes. Glance over Identify Actions – Pull out those notes, review way to get one from somebody else. I like to write your notes to provide a quick refresh, and lock in the actions you identified, and decide if they’re notes on the back of the card to help remember that knowledge. If you’ve got some obvious dump still meaningful. Put the ones you want to follow the context, or why I want to follow up with items, throw them away now, so that they aren’t up on into your task management system. someone. clogging up your systems later. Connect with Connections – Follow up with Process Connections in Real Time – At the end connections. If you had a specific request or of each day, empty the business cards from your When You Get Home intended action, make it happen. Waiting until wallet, and quickly sort them into three piles: the You’ll get the most from the conference if you weeks after the conference will allow you to slip first for those that you absolutely plan to follow can follow up in short order, while the information from people’s minds, and any urgency they might up with, the second for those that you want to put and connections are still fresh. Reviewing your have felt to respond can easily go by the wayside. into your address book, and the third for, “who is notes, information, and connections shortly after Add everybody else to your address list, and this person?” Throw the third pile away, and keep the event is a great way to increase retention and consider reaching out to them on Facebook or the other two accessible for when you get home. internalize important messages. Processing soon through a quick email. For the cards in the first group, write a note on after the event also ensures you don’t get caught A good conference can be a great place to get the back about your intended action, something up in the work that has been waiting for you before inspired, follow some intellectual rabbit trails, like “send info on transplants for sale,” or “ask for you have a chance to fully realize the value of being and meet a ton of new people – but you want to make the most of your investment. Those of us in the world of farming have chosen a life where knowledge and connections can turn into actions “Without MOSES, I would not be to improve the planet, provide real food, and build the farmer I am today.” ~S.A., Plum City, Wis. community, as well as to provide a return to our businesses. A little bit of additional effort - before, during, and after the event - can boost the out- Be part of the change. comes a conference creates on your farm and in your life.

Chris Blanchard provides consulting and education for farming, food, and business through Purple Pitchfork. He will present two workshops at the MOSES Conference as well as an all-day Organic University mosesorganic.org/donate | 715-778-5775 course on efficient farm management. mosesorganic.org | 715-778-5775 | 15

Organic University — from page 11 Growing in High Tunnels Silvopasture: Collin Thompson and Terrance T. Nennich Multiple Crops, Multiple Benefits an abundant and regular product to market, With the advent of cost-share programs, high Jason Fischbach and Mike Miles especially when the weather impacts vegetable tunnels are accessible to more farmers. High Silvopasture is the practice of combining low- yields. Composted manure from cows, sheep, tunnels, also known as hoophouses, not only density forestry with grazing livestock and forage goats, and poultry improve the fertility of your extend the growing season, but also protect crops in a way that’s mutually beneficial. Trees are vegetable fields. You can also take advantage of from the stress of wind, hard rain, and snow. managed for high-value sawlogs, nuts or fruits natural animal behaviors, using hogs to root and They can allow growers to plant varieties not and, at the same time, provide shade and shelter loosen soil and poultry to eat insect pests.Learn normally grown in this area, grow more unblem- for livestock and grasses, reducing stress and from these experienced farmers what it takes to ished produce, and take advantage of longer mar- increasing the health of both. Silvopasture mim- raise organic livestock in a diversified operation. keting windows. Production in a high tunnel is ics the natural savanna ecosystem, working with They’ll cover organic regulations along with what different than in the open field. This course will our Midwestern climate and landscape to meet various livestock require from you in terms of delve into best practices to enhance production agricultural goals. This course covers everything time, labor, acreage, fencing, housing, and feed. and profitability in your high tunnels. You’ll learn you need to know to incorporate silvopasture on They’ll examine processing options and related about the types of high tunnels available, struc- your farm to enhance and protect the soil, raise organic considerations. They’ll also discuss mar- tural considerations, site selection, soil prepara- healthy livestock, manage water resources with keting and the expected economic return from tion, soil amendments, fertilization, irrigation, strategies such as keyline design, and increase various marketing avenues. plant configurations, pest and disease control, your long-term income. and weed management.

Ask a Specialist — from page 4 Your organic operation will need to cover the to assist farmers or processors - often managed costs up front and get a paid invoice from the through grants. Widening your scope may reveal farmer, taking into account the benefits to your certifying agency. Then, complete and submit all opportunities through your county or Natural land from the conservation and soil-building prac- the required application components including a Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) tices of organic land use, lease term, and value of copy of your current organic certificate and the grants, Fish & Wildlife partnerships, and other farmland. If you have good farmland that is ready invoice(s) of certification costs paid during the programs that support conservation, natural to be certified as organic you might get 5-10% federal fiscal year (Oct. 1 to Sept. 30). Organic resources, and wildlife habitat. While they usu- more than the average per acre fee in the county, operations can receive support for up to 75% of ally won’t cover certification costs, they may help but only if the above outlined variables are in your certification costs, but are capped at $750 per year you implement practices that are valuable to your favor. Local extension agents are a great resource by certification scope (livestock, crops, wild har- farm operation and help you meet the require- to use in finding out the price of cropland rental vest, and handling). ments of certification. For example, they may help in their counties, and would be able to give an Beyond those programs, some regions offer you purchase cover crop seed or mobile fencing approximate dollar range for each county. Once other opportunities. For example, Minnesota has or offer incentives for conservation practices. For all of these factors are determined, a lease can a “Transition to Organic Cost Share Program” those transitioning into organic, NRCS Practice be drawn and upheld that meets the needs of the that supports state residents who are not cur- Standard 138: “Conservation Activity Plan for farmer and the organic landowner. rently certified, but are actively transitioning into the Transition to Organic Production” may offer For more information about writing this type certification. These funds will pay for up to 75% of professional help to identify conservation concerns of lease, see the MOSES fact sheet “How to Write eligible costs with a total annual cap of $750. ‘Eli- and organic requirements to address on your a Conservation-Focused Land Rental Agree- gible costs’ consist of charges for on-farm inspector land. Look for more opportunities on the “Funds ment,” available at mosesorganic.org/publications/ visits, soil tests, and registration fees for up to two for Farmers” page of the MOSES website. organic-fact-sheets. people to attend certain educational conferences, Contact your state’s Department of Agriculture including the MOSES Organic Farming Confer- for more information about the NOCCSP and How can I reduce the costs associated with my ence and other organic conferences in the Mid- AMA Organic Certification Cost Share programs organic certification? west. It’s important to note that pre-certification or other regional initiatives. Your certifier is also inspections are not required in order to attain a valuable asset and may be aware of additional Answer by Lauren Langworthy certification and are not offered by all certifying prospects. For insight into local opportunities, ask There are a couple different cost share options agencies, but can be a valuable learning tool. around your farming neighborhood, your buyers, for organic farmers across the country to help There are also many broader avenues to gain- and any farm or food organizations you may know. reduce the burden of certification fees. The most ing financial support for your organic endeavors. For more about these programs and how to widely available is the National Organic Certifica- Local food co-ops or non-profits may have funds apply, see ams.usda.gov/services/grants/occsp. tion Cost Share Program (NOCCSP). It’s available to all certified organic producers and handlers in the United States, as well as several territories and commonwealths. Certain states also have access to Agricultural Management Assistance MOTIVATED (AMA) Organic Certification Cost Share Program funds for producers. Only certified organic opera- DEALERS WANTED tions are eligible for these programs. To access them, contact your certification agency or state Department of Agriculture for the application. These programs use a reimbursement model. Become a dealer of unique, OMRI listed dispersing granule Humic Solutions products. Service Second to None ORGANIC CERTIFICATION and • Handlers • Processors

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MOSES expands outreach to farmers through new grant-funded projects By Jody Padgham MOSES will reach more farmers through a Group and the Farley Center teach immigrant and at the 2016 conference, and share information and diversity of new projects recently funded by grants. underserved farmers about conservation and resources through our website, the Organic Broad- Building on three years of outreach through organic practices. We will offer a Hmong workshop caster, and a field day next summer. our New Organic Stewards Program, MOSES and track and scholarships at the 2016, 2017 and 2018 MOSES staff also are involved in a project with Renewing the Countryside (RTC) will help begin- MOSES Organic Farming conferences, answer the University of Wisconsin to help farmers meet ning farmers connect, learn and improve the like- questions on organic production from this commu- the market demand for organic grain. In 2012- lihood of their success. Backed by a three-year nity, make farm visits and write NRCS Conserva- 2013, the U.S. imported nearly $170 million worth grant through the USDA Beginning Farmer and tion Activity Plans. of organic soybeans, corn and wheat. With the Rancher Development Program, MOSES and RTC Organic farmers have struggled to make the organic food market estimated to continue growing will work with regional partners to host four safety net of crop insurance effectively work in at over 14 percent per year through 2018, the trainings under the banner “New Farmer U.” their operations, but the new Whole Farm Rev- demand for organic grains as food, seed and live- These will be two-day “mini-conferences” offering enue Crop Insurance offers a fair solution. We are stock feed will only continue to rise. The Organic basic farming education and networking in Wis- partnering with the Michael Fields Agricultural Grain Resources and Information Network consin, Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois. Each event Institute and the Wisconsin Farmer’s Union to (OGRAIN) is a two-year project funded by the will be preceded by a one-day “Fearless Farm teach farmers about this new insurance and other USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Develop- Finances” training, drawing on the MOSES book, risk management tools for organic systems. With ment Program. MOSES will provide day-long which will be updated through the grant. We’ll funding from the USDA Risk Management organic grain intensives and workshops at the also offer workshops and activities targeted to Agency, we will offer workshops at four confer- 2016 and 2017 MOSES conferences, support grain beginning farmers at the annual MOSES Organic ences (including the 2016 MOSES Conference), farmers through our Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Farming Conference over the next three years. produce a webinar, provide crop insurance infor- Program, and contribute to other offerings, includ- New farmers can make connections at the confer- mation at field days, develop educational materials ing a Farm and Industry Short Course, online ence and New Farmer U and through the New and webpages through both MFAI and MOSES, video series and on-farm field days. Organic Stewards Facebook group, which was and distribute information through the Organic Look for related stories about these exciting created just last month. Search “New Organic Broadcaster and other publications. new initiatives in coming issues. Stewards” on Facebook and join in the conversation. We’ve also formed a one-year partnership with Through a three-year NRCS Conservation the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agri- Jody Padgham is the Financial Director for MOSES. Innovation Grant, MOSES is helping the Minne- cultural Health and Safety to teach farm families She manages grants for the organization. sota Food Association, Farmers Legal Action about children’s farm safety. We’ll offer a workshop

CSA Cooperative — from page 13 needing the infrastructure/tools/systems to effi- Currently, Great Oak Farm (60 acres total) has sleep better knowing that all the produce is essen- ciently handle all kinds of production, each grower about 5 acres of cover crop/fallow ground worked tially presold to our CSA members, regardless of can now specialize a little. “This really reduces the up, and about 5 acres of veggies in production, rainy Saturdays!” amount of different tasks each grower needs to do, including about 1.5 acres of cabbage and green Duke said the cooperative’s CSA structure and has helped each of the four veggie growers in beans for wholesale. The main vegetable crops makes it easier for him to plan, budget, and pur- the CSA to streamline production to be more effi- include carrots, onions, winter squash, green beans, chase equipment. He also has found the shift from cient,” he said. cabbage, cherry tomatoes, beets, and cucumbers, the Saturday farmers’ market to a CSA gives him In addition, he appreciates having access to the with many other crops in smaller amounts. They the option to take a Saturday off in the summer. cooperatively owned walk-in cooler and freezers. “It keep honeybees, raise about 950 pastured broiler “This has really gone a long way to improving saves on each farm having to individually invest in chickens, and have a small flock of about 35 ewes quality of life in our household!” that infrastructure and allows the farms to focus for production of grass-fed lamb. Being a master of the many crops that typically on other areas of infrastructure development,” he Along with the many benefits he has found in go out in a CSA box is a difficult and sometimes explained. the cooperative, Duke likes that the growers in the overwhelming task for many growers, especially Duke’s Great Oak Farm started in 2006, mostly Bayfield Region can rely on each other instead of newer growers. Duke said that perhaps the biggest growing food for the family and selling the rest. In “nameless, faceless outsourcing from wherever,” he positive of working with other growers to form a 2009, they started shifting to growing primarily said. “We are being a community again.” cooperative CSA is that instead of each farm grow- for sale and eating the leftovers. The farm has Kelli Boylen is a freelance writer with a farming background. ing a little bit of a lot of different crops, and been certified organic since 2011. She lives with her family on a homestead in Iowa.

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Call for Organic Research Posters the MIRG system compared to continuous graz- The 2016 MOSES Organic Farming Confer- ing most likely results from the unique way that ence will include an organic research poster ses- resets plant development and sion Feb. 26 and 27 as part of the Organic maintains a preferred plant community, rather Research Forum, funded by the Ceres Trust. The than from increased nutrient availability through poster session will document completed and on- NEWS BRIEFS microbial activity. The complete report is online going research projects related to organic agricul- at www.cias.wisc.edu (Research Brief #95). ture. Researchers, academic faculty and staff, graduate/undergraduate students and farmer Organic Farm Profiles Results of National Organic Meeting researchers may submit poster proposals for con- Making the Transition to Organic: Ten Farm The National Organic Standards Board met in sideration by Dec. 18, 2015. Limited to 25 posters. Profiles, a new publication from the Tools for Stowe, Vermont last month, mostly to review and See details on the Organic Research Forum web- Transition Project, features stories from a range decide upon almost 200 materials that were up page under the Projects tab at mosesorganic.org. of producers who have transitioned to organic or for sunset (removal) from the National List of are in the process. Each profile addresses approved synthetics or prohibited nonsynthetic Farmer Facebook Groups transition strategies, challenges, and resolutions. materials for use in organic production. There MOSES has launched Facebook groups for The Tools for Transition Project is based at the was also a rally by New England growers, pro- farmers in our community. These forums provide University of Minnesota. The profiles are online testing the organic certification of hydroponic a place to connect and share ideas or ask ques- at eorganic.info/toolsfortransition/reports. vegetable operations, stating that we should “keep tions. MOSES Organic Specialists moderate the the soil in organic.” groups. Please join in the conversations happen- Organic Transition Business Planner The new sunset voting procedure, which ing on one or both of these new forums. To find Organic Transition: A Business Planner for requires 2/3 of the NOSB to vote for removal, was these groups, simply search Facebook for Rural Farmers, Ranchers and Food Entrepreneurs, a used this year, and did allow some materials that Women’s Project and New Organic Stewards. new publication from SARE, explores organic were close votes to remain on the National List. transition strategies and asks important ques- Items that were voted to be removed can still be Recognition for MOSES Staff tions to help farmers determine the best plan for used until their removal is published in the fed- Faye Jones, MOSES their farm. It is free to download or $16 in print eral register, sometime in late 2016. executive director, has at www.sare.org/Learning-Center/Books. In crops, lignon sulfonate as a floatation agent been selected to receive an was removed from the list. Aquatic plant extracts Honorary Recognition USDA Websites for New Farmers was retained after a close vote with 5 to remove, 6 Award from the Univer- Start2farm.gov is a beginning farmer website to keep on the list and 3 abstentions. There was sity of Wisconsin-Madison of resources supported by the USDA and a good concern about overharvesting and destruction of College of Agricultural place to check out as you “start to farm”. Whether ocean ecosystems for this material. Ethylene, a and Life Sciences for out- you are new to farming or already farming, you material used to encourage flowering of pineapple standing and inspirational can choose links that will lead you to resources to had many comments to retain on the list, with 8 leadership, and significant answer your questions. From grant opportunities voting to keep on the list, 2 abstentions and 3 to contributions to agriculture. This award is among to sample land lease agreements to business remove. Laminarin, an algae was found to be the highest honors bestowed by the college. The planning and management, start2farm.gov is a nonsynthetic and will be allowed. award presentation is Nov. 12 at the university. database of great business resources for new and In handling, magnesium carbonate, used as an Lisa Kivirist, coordinator beginning farmers. anticaking agent, was removed from the National of the MOSES Rural Wom- Newfarmers.usda.gov is the latest beginning List. Mono and diglycerides will stay on the list, en’s Project, has been farmer website offering from the USDA. It pro- with a close vote of 6 to remove and 8 to retain. awarded In Business maga- vides a wide selection of resources for new and Vitamins, nutrients and minerals will be retained zine’s Women of Industry beginning farmers, including a step-by-step plan on the list, with further information to be award for the significant to get started in your farm business, a discovery obtained for discussion at the next meeting. Xan- impact she has made sup- tool to personalize your search, and specific tham gum will also remain on the list, but further porting women in the field of resources for women and veterans. The Farms in information will be gathered on this emulsifier. agriculture. Transition tab also provides an increasingly Agricultural products that were found to be avail- important link between retiring farmers and able as organic will be removed from 205.606, Research Grant Proposals beginning farmers to facilitate farm transfer which allows non-organic agricultural products in The Organic Farming Research Foundation relationships. organic foods. These include chia seeds, dillweed (OFRF) grants program is currently accepting oil, frozen galangal, inulin-oligofructose, frozen research proposals from farmers, ranchers, grad- Management-Intensive Rotational Grazing lemongrass, chipotle peppers, Turkish bay leaves uate students, early career researchers, veterans, Researchers at the University of Wisconsin- and whey protein concentrate. The listing for and Extension personnel. Priorities for funding Madison have published a research brief on their natural flavors was changed to require organic include projects related to soil health with empha- investigations into management-intensive rota- flavors when available. sis on water management, livestock breeding for tional grazing (MIRG). The results suggest that In livestock, furosemide, used to treat pulmo- organic systems, diseases and pasture manage- MIRG offers farmers increased forage quality and nary edema and hypercalcemia, will be removed ment; and small grain production, especially quantity when compared to continuous grazing or from the list. The parasiticides Ivermectin, Mox- related to creating a diverse rotational system. haying. In addition, MIRG systems have greater idectin and Fenbendozole remain on the list, but To submit a proposal, visit OFRF.org. The potential for carbon sequestration compared to the livestock subcommittee is looking at shorten- deadline for proposals is Feb. 8, 2016. the other systems. Heightened production from ing the withdrawal time for these and lidocaine, and procaine, to be discussed at the next meeting.

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Training for Minorities, Immigrants Real Food Cookbook Minnesota Food Association is currently Minneapolis-based accepting 2016 season applications for its Big Birchwood Cafe just pub- River Farms Training Program. The program lished its first-ever cook- serves immigrants, minorities, and individuals book, a collaboration with from other historically under-represented back- NEWS BRIEFS the University of Minne- grounds who are interested in organic farming as sota Press. The book a business. The association will hold an informa- includes recipes for the tion session from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17 at New Non-GMO Market Report cafe’s signature “good real the Hmong American Partnership Paj Ntaub The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service food” and profiles of the Center, 1075 Arcade Street in St. Paul. Training (AMS) is publishing a new report every Wednes- restaurant’s farmer program staff will answer questions and 2016 day with sale prices for non-GMO corn and soy- friends/suppliers. MOSES Organic Farmer of the applications will be available. RSVP to laura@ beans. The new report includes two price types: Year Greg Reynolds is one of the featured farm- mnfoodassociation.org or call 651-433-3676. Find future delivery contract prices paid to the pro- ers. The book is available through the MOSES more program details at www.mnfoodassociation. ducer by the elevator, and spot market cash prices Bookstore (mosesorganic.net). org/farmer-training-program. paid to producers by the elevator.The report can help farmers gauge prices for crops sold while in Farm Law Resources EQIP for Bees, Organic Practices the period of transition to organic. AMS also has Farm Commons has released a new series of Farmers and landowners in price reports for organic grain and feedstuffs and farm law guides: Farm Employment Law; Michigan, Minnesota, Mon- organic poultry and eggs. On the AMS website, Financing a Farmland Purchase; Managing the tana, North Dakota, South producers may create a custom report that Sustainable Farm’s Risks with Insurance; and, Dakota and Wisconsin can includes organic pricing. See www.ams.usda.gov/ Building Strong, Legally Enforceable Sales apply for Environmental Qual- market-news. Agreements. The free guides utilize a variety of ity Incentives Program (EQIP) methods from checklists to narratives to clarify funding to make bee-friendly Food Safety Rules the laws that affect farmers and landowners. conservation improvements to The U.S. Food and Drug Administration See farmcommons.org/resources. their land, such as planting cover crops, wildflow- (FDA) announced in early November that the ers or native grasses and improving management food safety rule governing the safe growing, har- of grazing lands. The Natural Resources Conser- vesting, packing, and holding of produce was vation Service (NRCS) accepts EQIP applications submitted to the Federal Register for final publi- Organic Crop Improvement Association MN #1 on a continuous basis. Contact your local USDA cation. FDA recently issued final rules governing Organic Certification through OCIA International service center. food processing facilities, and the publication of Another NRCS program, the EQIP Organic the Produce Rule will bring farmers another step Initiative, provides funds to organic and transi- closer to new food safety standards that will soon • FARM tioning producers for conservation plans, buffer go into effect. For details about the FMSA rollout, • LIVESTOCK zones, pollinator habitat, irrigation efficiency, see the National Sustainable Agriculture Coali- nutrient management, cover crops, and other tion’s blog: sustainableagriculture.net/blog. • PROCESSORS conservation practices. Join us today

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EQUIPMENT Classified Ad Placement Like new Willsie hydro weeder. Used between Reach 11,000+ organic-minded readers 10-15 hours. Excellent shape. Asking $4000 obo. with a classified ad in this newspaper. If interested and want pictures contact Shawn at CLASSIFIEDS 715-797-2719 or email [email protected]. Includes free listing in the Find Job Postings, Land Link-Up, Online Organic Classifieds at 2 row Univerco eco weeder, 2 row carousel me- mosesorganic.org/farming/organic-classifieds. chanical transplanter, 2 row John Deere potato Online Classifieds under Farming tab: digger. Glen, 563-379-3951 or [email protected]. Submit ads online at organicbroadcaster.org. mosesorganic.org Or, complete this form and mail with your ad to: For Sale: Buffalo planters and cultivators, new MOSES, PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767 and used, 320-221-2266. Ads must be submitted by the 25th of the month prior to Organic Broadcaster publication date. Get ready for spring!! 4 row Buffalo planter for sale. Completely rebuilt, shedded, with milo, corn, bean GRAINS Name: cups, residue separators, ridge till attachments, markers. $3500. Call Lee at 785-738-8368. We buy organic: corn, wheat, soybeans. Deliv- Address: ered to: Cromwell, IN. Contact: John 414-704-1344, David Bradley Fanning Mill. Cleaned and ready to [email protected]. City: go with new pans and shoots. Motorized and comes with several screens. $500. Call Ben at 920-418-3388. Organic rye and barley and straw. I have 1500 bu State: Zip: winter rye $10.00/bu and 700 bu barley $9.00/bu Hiniker 6000 heavy duty 6-row cultivator, $4,500 germination tested. Also 300 large square bales of Phone: or best offer. David Trickey, 217-491-3911. straw. 608-732-3807. Email: For Sale: One semi load of MCIA Certified Organic FARMS/LAND Barley/Field Pea grain mix. Ryan, batalden77@ $15 up to 30 words; $5/each additional 10 words. yahoo.com, 507-220-1036. Place my ad in (price is per insertion): Farm For Sale, Northfield, MN. 126 Acres of certified organic farmland with full set of bldgs and Organic Barley-Pea grain and Organic Barley- January - February July - August greenhouses. Well maintained farmhouse. New pea round bales of straw. 763-682-1389. March - April Sept. - Oct. septic. Two wells. MLS #4599644 kubesrealty@ kubesrealty.com, 952-445-9110. May - June Nov. - Dec. MISCELLANEOUS Own & operate a Certified Organic Vegetable Word rate x number of insertions (above) = ______TOTAL DUE Farm w/40 Ac, Home, Commercial Kitchen, Packing ORGANIC FISH FERTILIZER 15-1-1, 100% dry water PAYMENT INFORMATION: Shed, Barn, 3 Hoop Houses, Greenhouse & 11Ac soluble, 5-7 times more nutritious than liquid fish. I’m enclosing a check made out to MOSES. w/8’fence. Susan @ Heartland Realty 612-309-5537, Will not clog drip irrigation. 1 lb or 55 lb packaging, $350,000. can be shipped UPS. Frommelt Ag Service, Greeley, Please charge $ IA, 563-920-3674. Card # Visa | Mastercard | Discover | American Express FORAGES Garlic tincture for sale. On MOSA approved list. Works well on pneumonia, mastitis and calf scours. Expiration: (mm/dd/yy) For sale: organic hay, round bales, dry and silage Available in 8 oz bottles and 15cc and 30cc prefilled Signature: bales, 1st, 2nd and 3rd crops. Also oats straw. Deliv- syringes. Please call us at 802-349-6262 or check our ery available. Sno Pac Farms, Pete, 507-725-5281. website at www.garlictincture.com. This form good through December 2015. Organic Certified (wheat) Straw 300 large square For Sale: Organic Onion Plants, Sedona, Redwing, 2015, $100/ton plus shipping. Located near Thief Candy, Gladstone, Safrane, yellow and red Cipollini, New ads posted daily online: River Falls MN. Thomas Silbernagel, 715-937-0328. and Leeks. Other varieties available upon request. $7 per 100, certified by MOSA. Glen, 563-379-3951 or • Equipment • Forages • Livestock FOR SALE: MOSA CERTIFIED HAY & STRAW, WE [email protected]. • Farms/Land • Grain • More HAVE 4X4 BALEAGE, INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED. mosesorganic.org/farming/organic-classifieds SMALL SQUARE BALES FROM 2ND & 3RD CROP. ALL Kempf’s Garlic Tincture. Proven to help cows with NO RAIN. PLUS 4X5 NET WRAPPED ROUND BALES. common ailments, pneumonia, flu, mastitis, etc. HAVE 4X5 NET WRAPPED STRAW & SMALL SQUARE Also garlic vinegar for calves with scours, cocci and BALES. 715-879-5572. flu. For more info call 330-674-3999 ext 3.

Organic rye and barley and straw. I have 1500 bu winter rye $10.00/bu and 700 bu barley $9.00/bu OPPORTUNITIES germination tested. Also 300 large square bales of straw. 608-732-3807. Internship available for 2016 season on berry 2016 Farmer farm for interested single or family. Please contact Organic Alfalfa and Alfalfa/grass 3x3x8 square The Honeyberry Farm, PO Box 512, Bagley, MN bales. Test results available. Good quality and fairly 56621, tel. 218-694-3071, [email protected], Meetings priced. Delivery available. Located in Linton, ND. www.honeyberryusa.com. January 2016 Pending FRIDAY • JAN 8 TUESDAY • JAN 26 Dave Silbernagel Organic Farms 208-867-9939. POULTRY PRODUCERS FRUIT & VEGETABLE Miller’s Natural Foods Strasburg Fire Company 2888 Miller Lane Strasburg, PA Heifer organic hay. RFV 100-140, medium squares Bird In Hand PA and tarped. Call or txt for pricing. Also barley and February 2016 wheat. 218-790-0236, Lee Thomas, Moorhead MN. TUESDAY • JAN 12 WEDNESDAY • FEB 17 DAIRY & CROP DAIRY & CROPS Miller’s Natural Foods Montour DeLong Fair Bldg 2888 Miller Lane Washingtonville, PA Organic Dry Hay: Alfalfa/clover/grass mix. Tight Bird in Hand, PA 4X5 round bales, net wrapped. NO RAIN. Supreme March 2016 1st and 2nd crops. Six lots- all FORAGE ANALYZED WEDNESDAY • JAN 13 SWINE PRODUCERS THURSDAY • MAR 3 with great results. Approx 500 ton total. Delivery in Miller’s Natural Foods DAIRY & CROPS WI can be arranged. 715-473-2154 (message line) 2888 Miller Lane North Lansing Firehall Bird In Hand, PA 1189 Auburn Road (Rt. 34) [email protected]. North Lansing, NY THURSDAY • JAN 14 DAIRY & CROPS MONDAY • MAR 14–17 Very good quality certified organic hay available Mile’s Twshp Fire Co. DAIRY & CROPS 102 Broad Street Western OH, Indiana in dry 3 x 3 x 8 large squares, small squares and bale- Rebersburg, PA age in 3 x 3 x 5 1/2 individually well-wrapped bales. Location to be determined FRIDAY • JAN 15 TUESDAY • MAR 22 920-427-6663. DAIRY & CROPS DAIRY & CROPS Belleville Community Hall 11 Walnut Street Friedland Moravian Church For Sale: Organic hay, 4 X 5 round dry and wet Belleville, PA 2750 Friedland Church Rd wrapped bales, legume/grass mix, 1st, 2nd and Winston-Salem, NC TUESDAY • JAN 19 3rd crops, $45/bale. Dave Minar, New Prague, MN, DAIRY & CROPS TUESDAY • MAR 29 952-212-9506 or [email protected]. Lester Byler’s Farm DAIRY & CROPS 8506 Bundesburg Road Mo’s Pub and Grill Middlefield, OH 3357 State Route 11 Organic Barley-Pea grain and Organic Barley- Malone, NY pea round bales of straw. 763-682-1389. The Fertrell Company • 800-347-1566 • fertrell.com 20 | November | December 2015

Grazing Management Workshop Farminar: Alternatives to Cereal Rye and Nov. 21 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | $75* | Thief River Falls, Minn. the Benefits of Grazing Covers The Northwestern Stockmens Association (NWSA) hosts Dec. 8 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Free | Online this winter workshop featuring Neil Dennis and Gene COMMUNITY PFI present Andy Lenssen, researcher and professor at Goven on improving profits through grazing manage- Iowa State University, and Nathan Anderson, forage and ment. Topics include the pros and cons of high stock beef producer, in this interactive webinar. The two share density grazing, methods to monitor success, winter CALENDAR experiences growing cover crops beyond rye and share grazing and improving soil health for increased forage Find more under Events tab: research delving into 16 fall-seeded cover crops following production. Learn more and register by contacting a soybean harvest. They also share experiences grazing Dana Didrickson at (218) 689-1480. mosesorganic.org small grains and mustards into the fall. bit.ly/Farminars * $50 for NWSA members Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo Farminar: Dec. 8-10 | $ | Grand Rapids, Mich. Grazing Management for Grass-Finishing Cattle Aquaponics Master Class Organic Day is on Thursday at the Great Lakes Fruit, Nov. 24 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Free | Online Dec. 3-5 | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Montello, Wis. Vegetable and Farm Market Expo (GLEXPO). Michigan’s Practical Farmers of Iowa present this interactive Organized by Nelson and Pade, Inc., this is a compre- biggest conference and trade show for farmers offers webinar. Ryan and Kristine Jepsen of Grass Run Farms hensive course covering all aspects of aquaponics and educational sessions all three days. glexpo.com are interviewed by crop farmer and cattleman Daniel controlled environment agriculture. Intended for any- Sheetz who is in the process of transitioning his opera- one seriously considering getting into aquaponic food Farminar: A Simple Recordkeeping System for Fruit tion to organic and grass-fed. Topics covered revolve production, or those already doing aquaponics who and Vegetable Production around the importance of meeting the nutritional needs want to learn more about the technology. Dec. 15 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Free | Online of cattle at each stage of life and knowing grain costs. bit.ly/1WlxuTM Practical Farmers of Iowa present Rick and Stacy Hart- bit.ly/Farminars man of Small Potatoes Farm and Daniel Heldt, a produce Feast! Festival and Tradeshow farmer near Johnston, Iowa, in this interactive webinar. Transitioning to Organic Dec. 4-5 | $10 | Rochester, Minn. Rick shares how he and Stacy manage product and Dec. 1 | Free | Morris, Minn. FEAST Local Food Network presents a trade show for financial record-keeping and how this data impacts Dec. 2 | Free | Lamberton, Minn. food professionals that blossoms into a festival and decisions made for their farm and family. Daniel will Dec. 3 | Free | Rochester, Minn. marketplace for the all. Beyond exhibitors, Saturday ask questions and be advised by Rick on how to begin University of Minnesota Extension offers a workshop for offers a lineup of chef demonstrations, mini-workshops, record-keeping for his farm. bit.ly/Farminars grain and forage crop producers seeking more informa- kid’s activities, and adult-only samplings of local craft tion about organic certification and transition process. beverages. www.local-feast.org Roots and Roles of Community Land Trusts The workshop is designed to alleviate some confusion Dec. 16 | 4 p.m. | Free | Madison, Wis. offer answers while giving attendees additional resourc- Beginning Farming Panel Greg Rosenburg, Principal of Rosenberg and Associates es for the future. Learn more by contacting Jill Sackett at Dec. 5 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | $10 | East Troy, Wis. discusses the history, current positioning, and value of [email protected] or 507-389-5541. Instructed by Michael Futschenritter (Three Brothers the land trust model. bit.ly/1LEIOYp Farm), Courtney Stevens (Flower and Bee), and Paul Succesion Planning: Building Your Blueprint for a Huber (Shared Season Community Farm), this panel Transitioning to Organic Grains Successful Farm Transition shares the stories and lessons of beginning farmers. It is Jan. 13 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | $40 | Woodstock, Ill. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Free offered by the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute. The Land Connection presents this organic field crop Dec. 1 | Tomah, Wis. bit.ly/1PT9Q27 production and marketing seminar devoted to grains. Dec. 2 | Sun Prairie, Wis. Experts will focus on how to select ideal alternative grain Dec. 8 | Fond du Lac, Wis. Planning Your Farm Transition crops, plan for soil fertility and pest management, and Dec. 9 | Elkhorn, Wis. Dec. 5 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | $150 | Plainview, Minn. navigate organic transition and certification. bit.ly/1Sj5Cze Dec. 10 | Dodgeville, Wis. Jan. 16 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | $150 | Plainview, Minn. Transferring a farm from one pair of hands to another The Land Stewardship Project offers tools and problem- Wis. Local Food Summit: Digging into Local Food is often complicated and every farm’s dynamics and solving conversations for families planning to transfer Jan. 14-15 | $ | Sheboygan, Wis. finances are different. Badgerland Financial hosts this their farm to the next generation of operators. The Hosted by the Wisconsin Local Food Network, celebrate seminar with a support team of experts in finances, workshop focuses on short and long term goals, and learn about the Local Food System Development taxation, and the law to help you lay the foundation financial needs in retirement, transition models, and with breakout sessions, workshops, presentations, that will make a successful farm transfer a reality. RSVP resources and communication tools to help you and Sheboygan-based farm and facility tours. Keynote required. bit.ly/1MCuCm9 throughout the process. Participants walk away with speaker, Winona LaDuke, will share how local food sys- individualized technical support, an action plan for net tems strengthen communities. bit.ly/1P0sTYa Farminar: The Haney Soil Test and Nutrient Turnover steps, and more clarity around the process of their farm Dec. 1 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Free | Online transfer. landstewardshipproject.org/posts/777 Flower Farming Practical Farmers of Iowa present Sarah Hargreaves and Jan. 23 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | $40 | East Troy, Wis. Paul Ackley, in this interactive webinar. It can be difficult Navigating Farm Taxes Join Andrea Clemens of Lovelight Flowers and the to decide on the actions to take when reviewing soil Dec. 8 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | $30 | East Troy, Wis. Michael Fields Agricultural Institute for a day of learning test results without proper context or interpretation. Dec. 10 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | $30 | Sun Prairie, Wis. about flowers. michaelfields.org/events/flower-farming The Haney Test takes a novel approach to determine The Michael Fields Agricultural Institute presents Andy fertilizer recommendations while considering microbial McCarty of Badgerland Financial sharing important Whole Farm Management activity and carbon and nitrogen concentrations. Soil information about farm tax preparation and navigation. Jan. 30 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | $60 | East Troy, Wis. microbial ecologist, Sarah, addresses microbial activ- bit.ly/1Gz6oHc The Michael Fields Agricultural Institute presents Laura ity’s translation into nutrient turnover. Paul, a farmer, Paine of the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship discussing explains how he’s been using the Haney Test results to Introduction to Aquaponics Seminar and Tour farm management strategies. bit.ly/1NlNrci reduce fertilizer rates and maintain crop yields. Dec. 8 | 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. | $69 | Montello, Wis. bit.ly/Farminars Tour the state-of-the-art Nelson and Pade, Inc. green- High Tunnels and Hoophouse Management houses and learn during the 2 hour seminar about the Feb. 5 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | $40 | East Troy, Wis. basics of aquaponic production. Learn methods, ap- Peter Seely of Springdale Farm shares his knowledge of plications and benefits of this controlled-environment season extension structure management with support system of production. bit.ly/1KInA8a from the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute. bit.ly/1Hi7l6S

Identi ty Preserved Ingredients Certi fi ed Organic & Conventi onal Non-GMO

Contact us with your current availability and contracti ng interest for food grade • Soybeans • Peas & Lenti ls • Dry Beans • Mustard • Wheat • Barley • Millet • Buckwheat • Sunflowers • Corn • Safflower • Flaxseed

 High premiums paid.  Spot sale or forward growing contracts offered.  Shipping and storage options available.

Thank you for “growing with us” for more than 20 years. 4666 Amber Valley Parkway • Fargo, ND 58104 USA 701.356.4106 TEL • [email protected] • www.skfood.com Grow with us!