PuraMaize Corn...... 9 Recentaward Rentalpasture,plantingstock Severalchoices Calendar...... 20 Organic GrainReport...... 19 Classifieds...... 18 News Briefs...... 16 Rural Women’sProject...... 15 Incubatorfarms New Farmer Corner...... 12 Ask aMOSESSpecialist!...... 10 Proof Positive...... 7 MOSES Field Days & Events...... 6 Poetry Slam...... Determination YieldsAcres...... 4 Inside Organics...... 3 News FromMOSES...... 2 Volume 3 21·Number In This Issue Twoselections NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID New toolfororganicgrowers Eau Claire,WI Raising dairysteers PERMIT # 203 Transitioning toorganiccropland Crop insurancechanges

PO Box 339 Spring Valley, WI 54767

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esn, nldn evrnetl benefits, personal motives (such asahealthier environmental including reasons, sustainable farming methods for a variety of Farmers maychoose organic and other farm forfuturegenerations offarmers. ways topreserve an organic or sustainable questions and give an overview of the best This article will to answer attempt these various methods? these of drawbacks and benefits the are What his orherfarmingpractices? the farmer’sdeathin a manner that continues and sustainablefarmertotransferthefarmat What methodsare available for an organic farm forthenextgeneration? farmers face if they want to preserve their What obstaclesdoorganic and sustainable situation. may beappropriateor legal inyour unique for legaladviceonwhether any ofthese options You should consult an attorney in your state in yourstateorforfarm. be available situation isunique,not and theseoptionsmay an estate plan. This is not legal advice. Every of someoptionsthatmayhelpwhen creating Note: The following is intended as an overview our own produce.” got about us thinking getting aplace raise to didfind them really grocery thestores.This in nesota, and the quality was very bad when we dishes, but they Mexican were for very herbs hard to find find inMin to tried I and brother factory job was good work,” noted “My Rodrigo. plant Forest in “At Lake, Minn. the time, the work to 2004, at ahorseshoe manufacturing talked Rodrigo into moving to Minnesota in they make plastic bottles. milk Juan Carlos work at afactory Stillwater, in where Minn., move the to United States for work. He found the economic decision to made Carlos, Juan brother, 2001,In Rodrigo’s younger drigo. my mother,” explained Ro really learned from farming herbs. We raised also pigs. I chard, broccoli and Mexican away. We raised spinach, wasfarm alittle farther was one in place and the on asmall home farm. Our was afarmer. “We grew up a teacher and mother his Mexico City. father His was Cala wasRodrigo born in Plan Now Preserve to Farm for Next Generation Estate Planning Estate the Mid By Karen Thimke, University ofLaw Madison, School, Wisconsin Wisconsin Farm Dream Becomes Reality west for Farmer from Mexico Or ganic - and Sust Rodrigo Calaheadsintothefields at CalaFarmsOrigenes ainable Educa By Joe PedrettiBy Joe - One child may want to farm the property but the farm is divided between multiple children. never intended. This can often beaproblemif to all, and topropertygoingwhere the farmer law may result in a distribution unpleasing circumstances, leaving everythingtostate not happenasthefarmerexpected.Insome farmer dieswithoutanestateplan,thismay to transfer to surviving family membersifa While the law provides methods for an estate survival oftheland. a seriousthreattotheorganicorsustainable farm, andfamilystrife, all ofwhich will pose division, saleofthe to property plan canlead or herdeath.Failuretomakeasolidestate deceased’s wishes are carried out upon his the plan canensurethat estate implemented should planahead.Awell-designedand sustainable farms to future generations Farmers wishingtopasstheirorganicor Planning Problems CausedbyIncompleteEstate steps tomaintainthefarm’sorganicstatus. another purpose, farmers may wish to take farming, canbelostifthelandisusedfor gained benefits from sustainablefarming,especiallyorganic the Because stewardship. lifestyle anddiet),religionorasenseofland his full-timehis job at the horseshoe factory. Paul market. this time During he maintained (CSA) program the serving Minneapolis/St. rant and a community supported agriculture mainly sold two to accounts–Chipotle Restau focus of the MFA program,” noted He Rodrigo. nated with organic farming, and that is a main ventional farming, but Ibecame really fasci a new concept Mexico, “In him. to we did con and summer organically, squash–all which was pers, tomatoes, chard, spinach, Mexican herbs withfinished the program, pepraising he was tion Serv ice By the time was Rodrigo farmers. experienced with renting land and working is gettinggram by started ponent of the pro training three years. Amajor com overtraining the course of andFarming GAP Training Training Program, Organic grant &Minority Farmer the Big River Farms Immi and successfully completed participated he There port. Food Association for sup joined the Minnesota drigo owndreams to afarm, Ro following 2005, In their To To on page 8 page on Dream Farm Estate Estate To May -June 2013 on page 14 page on ------ORGANIC News From MOSES Without a calendar at hand, it’s been darn In other MOSES news, we’d like to introduce ROADCASTER tough this year to figure out what month it is. two new members of the MOSES Board of Di- B Normally my neighbors would be in the fields rectors: David Abazs and Nick Olson. Volume 21 · Number 3 about now, getting ready to seed. This year we all just have to shrug, as there is still a few David is from Finland, Minn., where he and his May · June 2013 inches of snow covering much of the ground. family own the solar- and wind-powered Round Editor It’s happened before, and will happen again. River Farm, a 50-share CSA. David also man- Jody Padgham—[email protected] Perhaps this is why we all like farming–it is ages Wolf Ridge Organic School Farm, which

never boring or predictable! supplies produce for Wolf Ridge Environmen- Organic Broadcaster Mission tal Learning Center. Nick is an organizer with The Organic Broadcaster provides farmer One thing that is predictable is the outpouring Land Stewardship Project’s Farm Beginnings -focused, current news and information of enthusiasm around the MOSES Organic program, and with his family owns and operates that assists farmers in successful organic Farming Conference. For 2-1/2 days at the Prairie Drifter Farm, a certified organic diversi- production and offers relevant updates end of February 3,349 folks from 42 states fied vegetable farm in Litchfield, Minn. about the organic community. and 5 countries poured into La Crosse, Wis. to listen to 130 speakers give 70 workshops David and Nick recently got their MOSES feet Advertising/Classifieds and 3 keynote presentations. Over 14,500 or- wet at a 2-day board meeting in mid April. With Support the Organic Broadcaster and reach ganic meals were served, and 85 volunteers their acceptance of three-year terms, the board over 10,100 readers through three advertis- made sure things went smoothly. Scholarships is growing from nine to ten members. We are ing options: Support the Broadcaster through a busi- were given to 188 attendees, (a value of over grateful for their, and the entire board’s commit- ness Patronage Package. Contact Luisa at $31,000), and 169 exhibit booths showcased ment to the organization. 715-778-5775 or [email protected] for large quantities of information and resources. more information. Vast amounts of fun, learning, exchange and It is also time to say goodbye and express great Display Advertisers: Rates and size op- good eating were enjoyed. appreciation to Atina Diffley for her six years of tions are available at www.mosesorganic. service to MOSES as a board member. Atina’s org/ad_rates.html or by contacting the of- This twitter comment from a participant sums it wisdom and willingness to work hard and take fice at [email protected]. Dis- all up: “My brain overfloweth with information. her responsibility seriously did much to move the counts for multiple issue placements. My cheeks are sore from smiling. Thank you organization forward. We wish her the best with Classified Advertising: 25 words for MOSES for another great conference.” the next chapter of her life, and congratulate her $12.00, 15 more words for an additional for well deserved success with her recent book, $6.00. Submit ads online by going to www. Be sure to save February 27, 28 and March Turn Here, Sweet Corn. mosesorganic.org/ad_rates.html and click- 1, 2014 to help us celebrate the 25th Organic ing on “online form.” Or, mail in the clas- Farming Conference! Good luck with your planting, sified ad form found on page 18 with your Jody Padgham, Organic Broadcaster Editor payment. What is MOSES Worth to You? Events/Calendar Items MOSES will publicize events that are of What if you woke up Monday morning and day morning, doing what we do best: edu- interest or relevance to our community. To discovered MOSES was gone? Would you cating, inspiring and empowering the farm- submit an event, go online to www.moses- organic.org/eventform.php or e-mail a notice mourn the end of a quarter century of ex- ers that bring us the best food in the world. to [email protected]. We reserve the cellent organic farming conferences? Per- right to deny any submitted event for any haps you would miss our field days. Or, what Send MOSES a check or donate online at: reason. about the reliable Organic Broadcaster, right www.mosesorganic.org/donate.html. Once here in your very hands? Starting to feel a you hit the “donate now” button you can The Organic BroadcasterTM is a trade- little blue or a tad stressed? choose to donate every month, quarterly marked bimonthly newspaper of the Mid- or just one time by selecting the frequency west Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES), a nonprofit organization You can relax. We are still here! And, with from a drop down menu. Monthly and quar- working in the Upper Midwest to promote your help, we plan to be here for the long terly gifts help us know we can count on you sustainable organic agriculture. Opinions run. That being said, as a nonprofit we are al- in the months to come. Thanks for expressed in the Organic Broadcaster are ways in need of individual support. Your do- your support! those of the authors and do not necessarily nation makes it possible for us to answer the Luisa Gerasimo, reflect the opinions of the publishers. We do farmer help line, to hand out cutting-edge MOSES Development Director, not endorse the products of any advertiser, information, and to plan the next round of and we reserve the right to refuse inappro- [email protected] priate advertising. We reserve the right to exceptional events. With your help we are change our advertising policy. here this Monday morning, and every Mon-

Submissions, inquiries, ads, and calendar items may be mailed to: MOSES, P.O. Box MOS : Keep in touch: 339, Spring Valley, Wisconsin, 54767. Rel- Faye Jones, Executive Director evant calendar items will be printed without [email protected] MOSES educates, inspires and empowers organic charge, space permitting. Jody Padgham, Financial Manager and sustainable farmers—and cares for the envi- [email protected] ronment. Please help us save trees and use your Please contact us for a writer’s guide. Harriet Behar, Organic Specialist donation $ for programs rather than mailing costs. [email protected] MOSES P.O. Box 339, Spring Valley, WI Joe Pedretti, Organic Education Specialist 54767 (715)778-5775 [email protected] Get news by email: [email protected] Angie Sullivan, Organic Resource Specialist You can choose what goes to your inbox. [email protected] www.mosesorganic.org Monthly Organic Link eNews Audrey Alwell, Communications Director [email protected] (includes a link to the online version of the Luisa Geramiso, Development Director bimonthly Organic Broadcaster) SAVE PAPER [email protected] Read the OB Online Jill Goodrich, Office Administrator Periodic notifications of Organic Field Days and This newspaper is available as a down- [email protected] other events happening in your area loadable pdf and as an html document Eric Hatling, Media Coordinator [email protected] Information about the annual from http://www.mosesorganic.org/broad- Jessi Padellford, Project Coordinator MOSES Organic Farming Conference caster.html. If you prefer not to receive [email protected] a paper copy in the mail, please con- Andrew Violet, IT Support Coordinator If you’d like to change what you get by email tact us and you will be removed from [email protected] from us, email [email protected] or call us the OB mailing list. Lisa Kivirist, Rural Woman’s Project Coord. at 715-778-5775. [email protected]

2 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013 INSIDE ORGANICS

Changes Improve Organic Crop Insurance, but Issues Remain By Harriet Behar

In response to the USDA’s Office of Inspector Organic Crop Insurance Payments Chilling Effect on Those Considering General (OIG) audit of organic crop insurance, Determined “Excessive” Organic Production the Risk Management Agency (RMA) an- In the OIG audit, it was determined that crop This lower crop yield figure sends a negative nounced changes in early March to the 2014 insurance payments to organic farmers using message to those looking to transition to organ- federal crop insurance program for organic county conventional yield averages have been ic production. Many times, it is these producers farmers. “excessive.” This determination was based on who seek crop insurance to lessen the anxiety a sample of 76 crop insurance policies nation- of trying a new type of production. The USDA The most positive change was the removal wide, held by 33 producers in six states. As a message that, on average, organic produces of the 5% surcharge added to crop insurance result, in the future, farmers who do not have 35% less yield than conventional production premiums, which has penalized farmers who their own organic cropping history may see could have a negative influence on the decision use organic practices. This surcharge is still in crop yield projections for basing insurance pay- to transition to organic. Since these farmers effect for 2013, but will go away in 2014. Al- would not have a four-year history of growing a though organic farming has been recognized specific organic crop, they would rely on organ- as a “good farming practice” since 2000, it has ...farmers who do not ic crop yield data in their region. Without that taken until now for RMA to fully acknowledge data their organic crop could only be insured this fact in the crop insurance program by have their own organic on a yield that is 35% less than conventional equalizing premium rates. cropping history may see counterparts. There is a sliver of silver lining, though, in that the insurance premium paid by Another welcome change is that organic farm- crop yield projections the producer would also be less. ers may now choose to pay a higher insurance premium to cover the higher price organic for basing insurance Hopefully, with the 2014 changes removing crops receive in the marketplace. This op- payments reduced to the 5% surcharge and providing for more crops tion will be available for corn, soybeans, cot- covered with an organic price, more of our long- ton, processing tomatoes, avocadoes and some as much as 35% below term organic producers will find crop insur- stonefruits. RMA plans to add additional “or- ance worthwhile. In the future, their crop yield ganic price selections” for wheat, barley, oats, county averages. data will be available to help RMA modify this almonds, apples, pears, blueberries, table negative view of organic crop yields. Unfortu- grapes, and certain stonefruits in the next two ments reduced to as much as 35% below coun- nately, this change will take quite a few years. years. Unfortunately, organic forages and pas- ty averages. Given the strong yields we see on With long and diverse crop rotations practiced ture–important as livestock feed and in crop most organic farms, I believe that this 35% by many organic farmers, it could take 15 rotations–will not be recognized. less yield on organic versus conventional land years or more to provide four years of a specific seems “excessive.” crop’s history. Along with these positives are some negatives that will continue to challenge organic farmers It is obvious to those involved with organic pro- Good Practices Based on Organic and those transitioning to organic when they duction that the sample size in making this Inspection Report seek crop insurance. determination was too small, and the data Another problem in the changes is the require- somewhat skewed. Because of historical penal- ment of the Office of Inspector General for in- Origin of Crop Insurance ties (such as the surcharge, and not receiving surance providers to review a farm’s organic Crop insurance was put in place in the 1930s payments in line with the organic price) many inspection report in order to verify that good to aid farmers during the devastating effects of organic farmers have not purchased crop in- organic farming practices were in use. This il- both the extended droughts of the Dust Bowl surance. The yield data in the OIG report may and extremely low prices caused by the De- have included a higher percentage of farmers To Inside Organics on page 17 pression. In its best application crop insurance new to organic, who would not have the benefit protects producers from weather- and market- of a long-term organic rotation to bring yields related losses. Expected crop yields that de- closer to the conventional county average. The fine the payments for crop insurance are de- organic industry does not have the same data Thanks to our termined two different ways: either the farmer collection support as non-organic has. As a re- has a minimum of four years of crop yield his- sult, there is no public data that reports actual Organic Broadcaster tory for that type of crop, or county averages for regional organic yield averages. the crop are used. PATRONS Our Patrons contribute generously so that the Broadcaster can be So W LLC widely distributed at no charge. a c m th O Bo Contact [email protected] to learn more i about becoming a MOSES patron Y o , SD 57 7 a c um y u ee um n y u n s 5 2 7 4 a c m i nv v 77 5 m t v m a o i and w w y l a ncti n al b d l n t e n f r l a www.wholefoodsmarket.com

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www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 3 Couple’s Determination Yields 1,300 Acres of Organic Cropland By Gigi Digiacomo

It ’s ha rd t o fi nd a more ent er pr isi ng, det erm i ned benefits of the manure application. Later that couple than Bryan and Theresa Kerkaert, who same year, the brothers turned over manage- began crop farming five years ago. They are ment of their land to Bryan–offering him a giving organics everything they’ve got and long-term rental agreement. Bryan borrowed then some. Together they are transitioning ap- equipment from a friend–a well-established or- proximately 500 acres of rented land – a col- ganic farmer–and began farming organically. lection of scattered parcels that vary by soil type, topography, distance, and management Transition Strategies: Today Bryan farms a history. Much of the land is former Conserva- total of 1,300 acres – including the original 160 tion Reserve Program (CRP) acreage, while acres on long-term lease. He rents all of the land other parcels were what Bryan calls “low-to- (a mix of short-term and long-term leases) and no input” organic ground. All of the Kerkaert’s has transitioned approximately 40 percent of it rented acreage is located 30-50 miles away (land under long-term lease). While he’d love to from their seven-acre farmstead. Bryan and farm everything organically, Bryan explained Theresa find themselves regularly needing to The Kerkaerts currently rent all of the land they farm. that he can’t plan crop rotations on land under fine tune-land management strategies as they Photo by Margaret Wiegelt one-year leases. “I don’t know if I’ll have that continue to learn about farming and organic land next year, let alone five years from now.” crop production. They also are forced to simul- around Marshall. Customers are happy.” They Much of the organic land was former CRP that taneously rework cash flow plans as lease ar- eventually built one more hog barn and diver- certified right away. rangements and market prices fluctuate. sified their businesses to include a truck wash in town. “But my passion always remained Bryan tries to treat each rental location as a Getting Started: Bryan has long had an af- crop farming,” Bryan said. field in his rotation. This allows him to make finity for plants. “I was always growing some- efficient use of his equipment; he schedules thing–little seedlings in my room when I was Motivation to Transition: When asked why field work to minimize equipment movement. a kid,” Bryan said. He was born and raised “in they decided to “go organic,” Bryan responds, Bryan cleans the equipment before moving town” (Marshall, Minn.) but regularly visited “Organic opens up opportunities. When we from one field to another. “We’re required to do and helped out on land farmed by his grand- farm conventionally, our opportunities are the this when going from a conventional field to an father and uncle. Theresa grew up on a dairy same as that for 99 percent of the other farm- organic field,” Bryan said. “But we choose to do farm near Marshall. ers. But we’re in the one percent category when it when going from an organic field to a conven- we grow organically and that opens up a lot tional field – because of weed seed that we’d be Bryan and Theresa met in high school and more opportunities.” bringing with us.” married after college in 1991. They rented and eventually purchased seven acres of land from Bryan was able to capitalize on those oppor- Bryan’s dad helps with some of the field work. Bryan’s uncle where they built their “dream tunities through his manure hauling business Other tasks, such as cutting, raking and bal- home.” Bryan worked for his uncle full-time, as- five years ago. The business put Bryan in touch ing hay that Bryan is unable to perform him- sisting with fieldwork, cattle management and with organic crop farmers who were “experi- self (due to lack of equipment) is custom hired. farm chores. At the same time, he and Theresa menting” with using the manure for fertilizer. Some of the employees from the manure haul- built a hog nursery barn. In 2001, struggling Each time Bryan was hired to apply manure, ing business are utilized in the farming opera- to make ends meet, Bryan quit working for his he had the opportunity to talk with organic tion during the cropping season. In the past he uncle and bought a manure hauling business. farmers – to learn about their rotations, to ob- also has hired immigrant labor to walk fields “The hauling business was in bad shape when I serve successes, watch “some mistakes,” and to and pull weeds throughout the growing season. first started,” Bryan said. “In a couple of years, begin dreaming about his own crop farm. I turned it around, and took it from three trail- Challenges: The Kerkaerts have overcome ers to six trailers. We haul in a 40-mile radius Opportunity knocked in September 2007 when several financial- and production-related chal- Bryan met two brothers who lived 35 miles lenges, including the management of widely away who had been “low-input” farming. “They dispersed rental acreage. Most recently, they’ve wanted to test out the use of manure for fer- struggled with issues that are common to most tility,” Bryan recalled. “I think I was brought organic farmers, including how to: 1) acquire in to settle a bet.” The brothers had planned favorable operating loans, 2) obtain crop insur- to spread manure on a small parcel – only six ance, and 3) successfully transition CRP land. of 160 acres. Bryan convinced them that ma- nure was needed on all the land and offered to We put your brand in hearts and minds delay his spreading payment until after har- To Cropland on page 13 by telling your story from farm to table. vest when the brothers would be able to see the BRAND STRATEGY IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT WEBSITES AND E-MARKETING PACKAGING AND PROMOTIONS VIDEO PRODUCTION

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4 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013 Selections from the 2013 MOSES Conference Poetry Slam

The Family Farm by Stan Szymanski 2013 Harry Potter Defeats GMOs by Liam Kivirist 2013 (age 11) Now if you’re looking for a place to live, Just stay with me, a list I’ll give. For the first time ever, we explore the question: “Why is Harry Potter at the MOSES Organic Farming Conference?” You get up in the morning and don’t have to leave, The family works together, just roll up your sleeve. It was lunchtime at Hogwarts, the wizards were hungry, To the Great Hall rushed Harry, Ron and Hermione. The farm is full of young life, But Hermione paused before she did dine, Your kids are all home, so is your wife. The meal wasn’t looking so fine. She cried to the boys: “Look at that label on our Butterbeer,” You just can’t beat being together, It has high fructose corn syrup,” she said with fear. The family that works and prays together. “Genetically modified corn in our drink,” “The menu at Hogwarts really does stink.” You go out and buy your kids toys, They left their meal, to the library they flew, That cost money and make lots of noise. Hermione, Ron and Harry too. As the three researched industrialized ag and GMOs, You look at the kids, what are their toys, Anger and concern inside them rose. Look outside, there’s puppies and boys. Blending fish and tomato DNA, All the pesticides and chemicals that spray. You’ll never be bored The dark Monsanto magic is everywhere, Farming close to the Lord. They learned finding healthy food is rare. Harry said, “This situation is much more grave,” Where do you think I get all my inspiration? “Organic farmers we must save.” Well it comes from the heavenly nation. But a special spell was required fast, To grow food system change that will last. Even your three or four year old son He whipped out a carrot, no wand he did need, Will enjoy playing in the barn, until you’re done. Anti-GMO-is, may organic farming succeed.

Even the smallest, they want to help. Epilogue: Six Months Later Take this small pail, give each cow a handful of kelp. Change is happening at Hogwarts indeed, Let me get you up to speed. It’s time to feed calves, go get the pail, Hermione convinced the house elves to change, Just look at his smile, the calf’s switching its tail. The menu; now all the chickens are free range. All GMO products the elves did drop. They grow up fast and before you know it, Hogwarts is now a member of the Willy Street co-op. A young farmer you have, they really show it. Ron converted the Hogwarts Express to a biodiesel train, He started a community garden, growing veggies, fruit and grain. They learn so much it’s a major factor, Harry was hungry for more knowledge and inspiration, Now it’s time for them to drive tractor. He thought LaCrosse would be a great vacation. Hanging with 3500 farmers from the Midwest, This is just the way it happened to me, He knows this is the biggest and the best. While talking farming on my dad’s knee. So he came to the MOSES conference this year, And that’s why I’m here! My dad the farmer and biology teacher, Has turned me into a soil loving preacher.

They say when people know how much you care, They’ll care how much you know.

Now it’s time to take all they know, The county fair, let’s go to the show.

The work is there, it will always get done, Saddle the pony, watch the kids have fun. O-MANN

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These are some of the reasons daughter number two, Would love to raise her three daughters on a farm too.

But her husband with allergies and red eyes, Wouldn’t enjoy nature’s pollen-filled skies.

Now my grandsons want to take over my farms, I welcome them with open arms!

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 5 2013 MOSES Field Day & Event Season has Arrived!

MOSES has many exciting field days, farm Spees of Sweet Earth Farm, MOSES Organic shows and workshops planned for the 2013 sea- Resource Specialist Angie Sullivan, represen- son. Topics appeal to a range of interests and tatives from FoodCorps, and Lisa Kivirist of experience levels. Check out hte following list Inn Serendipity and MOSES Rural Women’s for an opportunity to learn more about organic Project. farming. In Her Boots, Sustainable Agriculture More details and registration info are on our for Women, By Women, website, www.mosesorganic.org. If you do not Thursday, August 8, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. have access to the Internet, call the MOSES Kenyon, Minnesota office at 715-778-5775 and we’ll be happy to an- Discuss diversification through farmstays, swer your questions or get you registered for an farming as a single woman, starting farms event. mid-life, beginning farmer land access & fi- Joyce Ford discussing her plantings at nancing, cheesemaking and goats with Mairi We hope to see you this summer at these great Blue Fruit Farm, Winona Minn. Doerr of Dancing Winds Farm, Paula Forman MOSES events! of Encore Farm, Kathy Zeman of Simple Har- MOSES’ Farmer of the Year Charlie vest Farm Organics, Jan Joannides of Renew- Farm Hack Gardens of Eagan, Johnson, Organic Crops Field Day, ing the Countryside, and Lisa Kivirist of Inn Sunday, June 2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Thursday, July 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Serendipity and MOSES Rural Women’s Proj- Northfield, Minnesota Johnson Farms, ect. Please note: A $15 fee will cover the cost of Madison, South Dakota lunch, and pre-registration is required. Join MOSES for a full-day farm tour hosted by In Her Boots, Sustainable Agriculture For event details see the sidebar on page 17. the MOSES 2013 Organic Farmer of the Year, for Women, By Women, Charlie Johnson, and his family. This third Sunday, August 18, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Restoration Agriculture: An Introduc- generation farm has been organic since 1976, Scotch Hill Farm, tion to Farm-Scale Permaculture with currently with 2,800 acres of corn, soybeans, Brodhead, Wisconsin Mark Shepard, oats and alfalfa. A simple, yet elegant, rotation This special session, hosted in partnership Friday, June 14, 1 – 5 p.m. builds soil organic matter. Timely cultivations with the Fair Share Coalition, celebrates wom- New Forest Farm, using a variety of tools have resulted in clean en farmers running CSA operations, sharing Viroqua, Wisconsin fields and good yields for many years. Envi- advice and resources for beginning farmers. Please note: This event is free, but registration ronmental stewardship and good animal hus- Hosted by Dela Ends, Scotch Hill Farm along is required. Limited to 40 people. NO walk-ins bandry are also hallmarks of this exceptional with Katy Dickson of Christensens Farm, will be allowed the day of the event. Registra- operation. A tour bus will take us around the Anna Hill of Oak Ridge Farm, Lisa Kivirist tion opens May 1st. farm from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with lunch provid- of Inn Serendipity and MOSES Rural Women’s New Forest Farm is a planned conversion of a ed at noon. Dakota Rural Action and Northern Project, and other inspiring women CSA farm- typical row-crops grain farm into a commer- Plains Sustainable Agriculture Society are co- ers who are members of the Fair Share Coali- cial-scale, perennial agricultural ecosystem us- sponsors of this event. tion. We will discuss CSA start-ups, begin- ing oak savanna, successional brush land and ning farmer challenges & resources, farming/ eastern woodlands as the ecological models. In Her Boots, Sustainable Agriculture family balance, and cottage food value-added Trees, shrubs, vines, canes, perennial plants for Women, By Women, opportunities. and fungi are planted in association to produce Sunday, August 4, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. food (for humans and animals), fuel, medicines, Canoe Creek Produce, and beauty. Hazelnuts, chestnuts, walnuts and Decorah, Iowa various fruits are the primary woody crops. Discuss farm diversification, beginning farm- The farm is entirely solar- and wind-powered er challenges and resources and farmstay and equipment is run with locally produced start-ups with Barb Kraus of Canoe Creek biofuels. Produce along with Hannah Breckbill of Hum- ble Hands Harvest, Anne Bohl and Meghan

Alex Needam discussing his irrigation system at Radical Root Farm, Greyslake, Ill.

Grass-fed Beef, Row Crops and Poultry Field Day, Tuesday, August 27, 8a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sandy Ridge Farm Tampico, Illinois $30 pre-registered/$40 at the door. Please note: Pre-registration is preferred for this event. Victor, Kendall and Derek Shrock lead a tour of their 1,200+ acres of certified organic crops, grass-fed beef and poultry business. Gearld Fry of Bovine Engineering and Consulting will join the pasture walk to discuss Kendall’s grass-fed beef operation. Derek will explain how he manages his poultry and markets eggs. Lunch will be served by the Shrock family. MOSES is partnering with the Illinois Organic Growers Association and University of Illinois Extension to offer this field day. Agri-Energy Resources and Prairie Hybrid Seed Company will also be on site for the event.

To Events on page 8

6 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013 PROOF POSITIVE Research on Raising Dairy Steers Provides Insights By Brad Heins and Elizabeth Bjorklund, University of Minnesota*

The following was presented through a poster ity, consumer acceptability, and profitability slaughter weights, lower gains from birth to in the 2013 Organic Research Forum at the over the next 14 to 20 months. Breed groups slaughter, and had lower average daily gains 2013 MOSES Organic Farming Conference. of calves were: Holstein; crossbreds that in- than conventional steers. Conventional steers cluded combinations of Holstein, Montbéliarde, had 466 days to slaughter, organic had 528 With the extreme drought conditions in and Swedish Red; and crossbreds that included days to slaughter, and grass-only had 584 days the Upper Midwest during 2012, many combinations of Holstein, Jersey, Swedish Red, to slaughter. Slaughter weights (lb) were 1,263 dairy producers continue to be worried and Normande. The bull calves were assigned (conventional), 1,037 (organic), and 884 (grass- about high grain and hay prices. There- to one of three groups at birth: conventional, only). Average daily gains from birth (lb/day) fore, producers are reducing the amount of organic (pasture plus concentrate), and organ- were 2.52 (conventional), 1.79 (organic), and grain fed to cattle to reduce feed costs and ic-grass only (100% pasture). The conventional 1.35 (grass-only). As expected, steers fed high- maintain profitability. At the West Central Re- steers were fed a diet of 80% concentrate and er amounts of grain and concentrate had car- search and Outreach Center’s organic dairy, we 20% roughage and received Component E-S casses with greater fat thickness, larger ribeye recently completed a study where we evaluated hormone implants. The organic steers were fed area, and higher yield grades than steers fed the effects of growth, meat quality, and prof- a diet of organic corn and organic corn silage, higher amounts of pasture. itability of conventionally raised dairy steers and at least 30% of their diet consisted of or- compared to organically raised dairy steers. ganic pasture during the grazing season. The The fat from the grass-only steers was This project was funded by a North Central grass-only steers grazed pasture during the higher in Omega-3 fatty acid and lower SARE graduate student grant. grazing season and were fed high quality hay in monounsaturated and saturated fat, or hay silage during the non-grazing season. which may indicate potential health ben- There is an increase in global demand for or- efits of grass-fed beef. Consumers who rat- ganic products, especially grass-fed and fin- The conventional steers were sent to slaughter ed the beef found no significant difference for ished. Consumers are becoming more con- July 24, 2012 to the Tyson Fresh Meats plant overall liking for the conventional and organic cerned about the origins of food, and grass-fed in Dakota City, Neb. and the organic and grass- beef. The organic beef had significantly higher beef and organic beef has the potential to ad- only steers were sent to Lorentz Meats, Can- flavor liking than the conventional beef. How- dress some of the concerns. Bull calves may non Falls, Minn. on Sept. 19, 2012 and Nov. 13, ever, consumers rated the grass-only beef the represent a potential additional source of rev- 2012, respectively. Strip loins were collected lowest in overall liking and flavor liking. enue for organic dairy producers. Currently, for a consumer taste panel, which allowed 100 with the high price of organic grains in the beef consumers to rate the beef for overall lik- To Steer Research on page 11 United States, the male offspring of organic ing and flavor. Profit was defined to include Holstein and crossbred dairy cattle represent revenues and expenses for beef value, feed cost, *West Central Research and Outreach Center, a potential resource for pasture-raised beef in pasture cost, health cost, and yardage. Morris, Minn. For more information, contact: the Midwest. Brad Heins, Assistant Professor, Organic Dairy The table on page 11 shows results for conven- Management, (320) 589-1711 or hein0106@ This research study used bull calves born from tional dairy steers compared to organic and umn.edu. March to May 2011 from the WCROC dairy. grass-only dairy steers. The grass-only dairy They were evaluated for growth, meat qual- steers had greater days to slaughter, lower

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www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 7 Farm Dream... from page 1 Rodrigo and his brother have made a number Events... from page 6 of improvements to the farm since they bought In addition to the Minn. Food Association it in 2008. They now have three tractors and Soil Sisters: South Central Women in trainings, Rodrigo also took business and mar- have mechanized a lot of their field work. They Sustainable Agriculture Farm Tour, keting classes through NeDA (Neighborhood added a greenhouse and high tunnels to ex- Sunday, September 8, 11 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Development Alliance), the LEDC (Latino tend their season and have now transitioned www.soilsisterswi.org Economic Development Center) and the NDC all of their fields to organic production. They Celebrate local agriculture by visiting small (Neighborhood Development Center). have also increased production and now focus family farms led by Wisconsin women commit- mostly on five crops: onions, ted to a healthy, fresh future for our children. Around the same time he be- peppers, heirloom tomatoes, From eggplants to emus, sheep to solar energy, gan the training programs, garlic and broccoli. “We will bed & breakfasts to beef – these six farms offer Rodrigo began to search start growing field corn and a unique diversity of farm experiences show- for his own farm. His main will start working with pigs casing the summer’s bounty in one afternoon goal was to find one that this season. We have a lot tour highlighting a cross-section of women was close to the Twin Cities, of experience working with farmers in south central Wisconsin: Primrose had a house and some farm pigs in Mexico.” Valley Farm, Scotch Hill Farm, Lucky Dog buildings, and had at least Farmstay, Circle M Farm, Grassroots Farm, some fields that could be im- Both brothers still work full- Inn Serendipity Farm and B&B, Sugar Maple mediately certified organic. time off the farm, but Rodri- Emu Farm. Free and open to the public. The only way to do that was go has plans to move to full- to look at a lot of farms. “A time farming in three to five Transitioning to Organic Field Day, lot of what we liked was years. His brother plans to Sunday, September 15, 1 – 5 p.m. priced very high,” he said. work off-farm for two more Gardens of Eagan, “We looked at 30 farms at years than Rodrigo does. Northfield, Minnesota least.” Rodrigo is married and has MOSES New Organic Stewards program will The greenhouse extends four children, all of whom partner with Gardens of Eagan and the Organ- In 2008, Rodrigo and Juan Cala Farm’s season still live in Mexico. His next ic Field School to present a field day about the Carlos were able to find and goal is to be financially able process of transitioning into a certified organic purchase their own farm, Cala Farm Origenes, to bring them all to join him here in the United farming operation. If you are purchasing con- LLC, located in the small agrarian community States. His wife has only visited the farm once, ventional land, and the task of becoming certi- of Turtle Lake, Wis. “It was not perfect, but it and his parents will visit for the first time this fied organic seems daunting, attend this field had a good house, farm buildings and 16 acres year. “Sometimes, when you have a dream, you day and learn how the process works. of tillable land.” There were seven fields, two need to go forward. To change and create a that were certified the first year and the rest dream, you need to take a risk.” Vegetable Diversification, had to be transitioned. “We tried to get a Be- Monday, September 16, 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. ginning Farmer Loan from the Farm Services Rodrigo’s tips for beginning farmers: PrairiErth Farm, Agency, but it was too hard, too much paper- • To be a farmer, you need to love farming first. Bloomington, Illinois. work. We wanted to find a different way.” • Take business classes and develop a business For those who wish to scale up their vegetable plan. operation, or want to learn how to diversify to Ultimately, Rodrigo worked with his banker at • Rent land for a few years before buying your include small-scale livestock or value- added his credit union to get the loan. With money own farm. products, join us for an afternoon at Prairi- coming in from their full-time factory jobs to • Find buyers and develop your accounts be- Erth Farm with Hans & Katie Bishop. In ad- cover a down payment, and a bank willing to fore buying a farm. dition to vegetables, this two-generation opera- work with their business plan, they were able • Be prepared to work off the farm to generate tion raises poultry, beef, pigs, and fresh baked to get the loan they needed for the farm. cash flow for the first few years. goods. Marketing outlets include a CSA, farm- • Be prepared to look at a lot of farms before ers market and other direct-to-consumer chan- The brothers started with mostly hand tools, you find the right one. nels. Learn to build synergy between diverse raising vegetables for the accounts they had de- • With the right tools and equipment, you have production systems while enticing consumers veloped while renting land, and courting new more chances to succeed. with a wide range of products. customers as they grew. They now have a num- • Record keeping is critical. This information ber of accounts including Chipotle Restaurants will show the bank you have the skills to Visit MOSES at these summer farm (onions, peppers), Coop Partners (broccoli, to- succeed. shows: matoes, garlic, bell peppers), two restaurants • Set yearly goals for your business and revisit • Wis. FFA, June 12, Madison, Wis. in the Twin Cities, and a small CSA. your plan and adjust for mistakes. • Wis. Farm Technology Days, July 9-11, Dal- las, Wis. “We started the CSA in 2010,” Rodrigo said. Joe Pedretti ([email protected]) is the • Kickapoo Country Fair, July 27, La Farge, “We were working full time, so the CSA was MOSES Organic Education Specialist. Wis. very hard for us. The CSA is stressful and a lot • Farm Fest,Aug. 6-8,Redwood County, Minn. of hard work. For now we only have 25 mem- • MOSES will also be partnering with Practi- bers. Maybe in the future, when we are not cal Farmers of Iowa and CROPP-Organic Val- working off the farm, a CSA will work better.” ley, on several field days. See the MOSES web- site for details.

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8 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013 New Tool for Organic Growers: PuraMaize Blocks GMO Contamination

The following is based on information provided New Option Available Scott Johnson, Ph.D., another owner and by Blue River Hybrids. PuraMaize, developed via plant breeding founder of Blue River, led the effort to breed to create corn hybrids with the ability to re- the PuraMaize gene system into Blue River’s One of the challenges organic farmers face is sist cross fertilization by GMO pollen, is now corn hybrids, enabling Blue River to be first- the potential of organic crop contamination available in organic yellow dent corn seed. An to-market with three PuraMaize corn hybrids from genetically modified crops. With ever important new tool to assist organic growers, in 2012. growing numbers of GMO crops and increas- PuraMaize provides a choice for grain buyers, ing acreage being planted with GMO seed, the grain exporters, and organic livestock farmers The Science of PuraMaize problems for organic producers continue to es- who want assurance that their grain will be PuraMaize is a natural gene-blocking sys- calate. free from GMO contamination or color impuri- tem which impedes fertilization from GMO ties. and blue corn pollen. It is a pollen recognition In the 2012 publication, “GMO Contamination system, which strongly prefers its own pollen. Prevention–What Does it Take,” Jim Riddle The PuraMaize gene system was first devel- When GMO or blue corn pollen drifts onto the of the University of Minnesota Southwest Re- oped in the late 1990s by Tom Hoegemeyer, silk of PuraMaize corn hybrids, the “foreign” search and Outreach Center notes that “Since Cerrado Natural Systems Group, while ex- pollen is quickly overtaken by the PuraMaize different types of agriculture are practiced ploring ways to preserve color purity in white pollen which travels down the silk channel at on adjoining fields, suitable measures dur- corn. Although ultimately another method a faster rate and fertilizes the ovule first. As ing planting, cultivation, harvest, transport, was derived to ensure white corn’s pureness, a pollen-recognition system, PuraMaize does storage, and processing are needed in order Hoegemeyer recognized that PuraMaize could not affect the growth of the plant nor grain fill to prevent the accidental mixing of GMO and be the solution to the emerging problem with of the developing ear. It does not alter taste or non-GMO materials. Contamination may re- GMOs. In 2000, Hoegemeyer began breeding other agronomic or functional properties. sult from seed impurities, wind or insect-borne the PuraMaize gene into field corn using tradi- crosspollination, volunteer or feral plants, and/ tional plant breeding, not genetic engineering. Some varieties of tropical corn cannot be pol- or inadequate harvest and handling practice.” Working with tropical varieties of corn over linated by other varieties due to the presence 10 years, Hoegemeyer brought together spe- of one or more cross incompatibility genes. Riddle continues: “As of 2012, numerous variet- cific gene characteristics from obscure sources Known in corn genetics as gametophyte fac- ies of GMO field corn have been released, with and bred out deleterious “baggage” to produce tors, or GaS, they selectively control fertiliza- traits including herbicide resistance, insecti- the PuraMaize gene system. Cerrado Natural tion by only accepting pollen from corn plants cidal properties to kill corn borers and/or corn Systems Group, an independent company not with the same genotype. Ga1S and Ga2S are rootworms, and alpha-amylase to break down affiliated with any seed company, holds the two such pollen-blocking genes. PuraMaize is starch for production of ethanol. Herbicide- PuraMaize patent, which is limited to the use a gene system made up of the GA1S and other resistant soybeans, canola, sugar beets, al- of GA1S in yellow dent corn. genes or gene expressions. falfa, and summer squash have been released, along with insecticidal cotton and sweet corn In 2007, Blue River Hybrids of Kelley, Iowa, and disease resistant papaya. Many crops are secured a license to breed the PuraMaize gene “stacked” to contain multiple traits of herbicide system into its elite corn hybrids. Maury John- resistance and insecticidal protein.” son, an owner and founder of Blue River Hy- brids recalls, “We concluded that PuraMaize Although there are ways to minimize potential would be a tremendous asset to farmers who contamination, such as the timing of planting wish to prevent GMO contamination, so we and maintaining clear communication with invested resources in breeding the PuraMaize neighbors, there is rising concern in the organ- gene system into hybrids that meet our stan- ic community about the issue. dards for dependable performance in organic environments.”

Now you can efficiently keep the Organic Certification? detailed records required to be a certified producer of organic crops or livestock, all at the click of a few Click. Click. buttons. Developed by farmers for farmers, You’re Done. COG Pro makes collecting your Farmers see PuraMaize’s Success agricultural data and generating Blue River Hybrids has conducted several reports for certification inspection years of replicated testing of PuraMaize at 20 a snap— right from your laptop, locations, with consistently positive and reli- tablet or smart phone. able results. In side-by-side field tests with GMO corn, PuraMaize either eliminates or Visit www.cog-pro.com to find out virtually eliminates contamination. more about COG Pro’s low cost, easy- Bred into elite Blue River corn hybrids, Pura- to-use online notebook— try it out Maize yields are competitive with similar or- for free by logging in as a guest! ganic hybrids. Farmers have seen the reliable yield performance they have come to expect.

Alan Ward of Viborg, Wis. has been happy with PuraMaize results in his fields: “One ma- jor challenge I faced was the delay in planting. Now Up until PuraMaize, I was planting at least with GAP COG Pro Organic certification… four weeks after the conventional farmers to records! avoid their pollination window. That shortened simplified. my growing season and my yields. I also had trouble getting natural dry-down with such a www.cog-pro.com To PuraMaize on page 13

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 9 ASK A MOSES SPECIALIST

In this column we provide answers to common previous land use have a large impact on the tion and a good rotational paddock design are questions received by MOSES organic special- quality of the soil. Large fields may even have the keys to getting good production on your ists. Feel free to give MOSES a call; Harriet at multiple soil types and can vary in fertility new pasture. Make sure you follow all require- 888-551-4769, or the MOSES office at 715-778- from location to location. It is extremely rare to ments for your seed, such as planting organic 5775, with any questions about organic agricul- find a soil that isn’t lacking in some nutrients, seed or using seed that does not contain any ture you’d like answered…We will do our best and may even have an overabundance of oth- prohibited treatments or inoculants. to help! ers. The soil test can help you plan for the right fertilizer applications. Fencing that is already in place can be used Question: I have the opportunity to rent even if the posts had been treated with prohib- some pasture from my neighbor who In general, fallow land tends to need renova- ited materials, although your certifier may re- hasn’t used it in many years. What do I tion: fertility amendments and, often, reseed- quire an interior fence to prevent grazing right need to do to get this certified, and what ing for improved forage quality. Fallow land next to these posts. Any new fencing must com- is the best way to start pasturing organi- tends to revert to lower quality grasses over ply with organic standards and cannot contain cally? time. So you should also take an assessment of these prohibited materials. Answer: by Organic Specialist Joe Pedretti the plant population and type. You can request an assessment and assistance with a grazing 205.206 (f) The producer must not use lumber You can add rented land, or new fields of your plan from the Natural Resources Conserva- treated with arsenate or other prohibited mate- own, by adding them to your current year field tion Service, (NRCS) which will have a graz- rials for new installations or replacement pur- plan and providing your organic certifier with ing specialist available for consultations. If poses in contact with soil or livestock. the previous three years of field histories. If the you look in the blue pages (government pages) land has been truly fallow, you can substitute of your phone book, you can find your county Natural wood, metal posts, and concrete posts a letter from the land owner stating that no NRCS office. The grazing specialist can help are allowed. AC2 copper-treated posts are al- inputs have been used. This letter is usually you assess your pasture quality, help you de- lowed with restrictions such as having a buffer called “Prior Land Use Declaration” or some- sign a fencing and paddock layout and can de- in place between the posts and organic grazing thing similar and is available from your certi- termine ideal stocking rates. The NRCS also land. fier. has programs providing cost share for some of these improvements, if you have a long-term Check with your certifier for details about fenc- Make sure that prohibited substances have not lease on this pastureland. ing, or refer to this article for specifics: www. been used for at least three years. It is not un- mosesorganic.org/attachments/broadcaster/ common to find that the owner may have spot Pastures, too, can revert to low-quality grasses obonline194.html#7 treated weeds or applied manure. If herbicides and plants will need to be renovated. Ideally have been used, it will take a full three-year you want a mixture of cool and warm season Buffer zones are required along any pasture transition from the last application date before grasses and a mix of legumes and other broad- that borders conventional fields. A 25-30 foot the land can be certified. Conventional manure leaf plants to provide a resilient mix of forages buffer, which cannot be grazed or harvested for is allowed, but be sure that the manure and throughout the growing season and changing organic use, will help prevent contamination bedding source does not contain prohibited climatic conditions. Legumes can sometimes from neighboring conventional fields. In most materials like recycled lumber waste, has not be seeded into existing pastures by broadcast- cases, an interior electric or similar fence will been treated with herbicides or insecticides ing them at the right time of year, typically late be adequate. The buffer zone can be harvested or had chemical treatments to control odor or winter. If the thatch (root mass and decaying mechanically, or by grazing non-organic live- nutrient loss. Ask a lot of questions to be sure materials) is very thick, you may need to use stock such as horses, it cannot be sold or used there are no surprises. a no-till seed drill to open up the soil enough as organic. for the new seed to make contact. These drills A soil test should be a top priority. Fallow land can sometimes be rented through local grazing may or may not be fertile. The soil type and groups. Good fertility, the right plant popula- To Specialists on page 11

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10 30654 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013

Specialists... from page 10 Steer Research... from page 7

Question: Can I sell organic fruits and vegetables from plants For profitability, grain costs were substantially higher for the organic steers, and planting stock I buy at my local garden center? and therefore, resulted in a net loss per steer (-$644/steer). The higher cost Answer: by Organic Specialist Harriet Behar of production for the organic steers is due to the extremely high value of organic corn ($15.90/bushel, January 2013). The grass-only steers had the You probably will not be able to buy Remember, if highest profit per steer ($593 vs. $442) compared to conventional steers be- plants at your local garden store. When you sell less than cause of lower feed costs, mainly pasture. Economically, GRASS steers had using annual transplants (tomatoes, pep- $5,000 per year in 25% greater profit per steer, than CONV steers. On the other hand, ORG pers, onion plants etc.), the plants must organically labeled steers had 169% less profit per steer than CONV steers. Therefore, a low- be certified organic in order to sell organ- products, then you grain ration may reduce feed costs without sacrificing profit in an ic produce from them in any given crop are exempt from organic dairy system, assuming the grass-fed steers can be mar- year. organic inspection keted at a premium price based on the production system. and certification. The land you raise them on must be free However, whether The conventional steers grew much faster and required less time to slaughter of prohibited materials for 36 months or not you are than grass-only steers. However, grass-only steers required fewer resources prior to your first organic harvest. If you required or exempt than conventional steers. Organic dairy producers trying to seek relief from have planted nonorganic annual trans- from organic high grain prices, wiho have a little “extra” pasture, may be able to make a plants in the same fields in the past, certification, you profit from feeding organic dairy steers versus selling them to conventional your certification agency may consider must still follow markets. the land to be nonorganic, and require the same rules. you to wait three years after that plant- The results of the current study suggest there may be a potential market for ing to have your first organic harvest. This decision may depend on the male offspring of organic dairy cattle in the Midwest. The most im- whether the plants were bare root or were transplanted with their portant point for reducing inputs and increasing profits in organic nonorganic potting mix. There is some difference between certifiers. dairy systems is to produce high quality forages and maximize dry Some allow one year to pass and others require three years. The in- matter intake on pasture. terpretation of this regulation is something you want to discuss with your certification agency if you are requesting organic certification for the first time.

Your transplants cannot be purchased from an “exempt from certi- Organic fication” (under the $5,000 limit) operation. They must be certified organic, grown by you or someone else who has a valid organic cer- tificate. Some natural food stores may be able to provide you with an organic certificate for the plants they sell, but most garden centers do not sell certified organic transplants.

You can grow the transplants yourself, using approved planting media which does not contain any synthetic fertilizers, fungicides, wetting agents or other prohibited materials. These items are not mandated to be listed on the label of commercially available potting media, so you must get information in writing from the manufac- turer detailing the ingredients, stating that the media has not been treated with prohibited fungicides, insecticides, etc. There are many organically approved potting mix and input suppliers. For resources, see the MOSES Resource Directory (www.mosesorganic.org/resour- cedirectory.html) or the OMRI Products List (www.omri.org)

Be very careful when purchasing any fertility input or potting mix, since the word “organic” on these items does not always mean the same thing as “approved for organic production.” Long before the USDA organic regulation, the word “organic” on a label meant it con- tained the element carbon. To find products you can use, you must look for the OMRI seal and the words “approved for organic pro- duction.” Always verify with your organic certification agency that whatever you want to use is acceptable before you buy it.

For fruit trees, raspberry bushes, or other perennials, you are man- dated to search for organic planting stock. However, if you cannot find the variety, quality or quantity you want as organic, you can use non-organic planting stock. You must document this search.

In a recent National Organic Program guidance it was clarified that an organic harvest from non-organic planting stock can be done im- mediately after beginning organic management and planting into organic soil. However, you cannot create and sell organic planting stock from parent nonorganic stock until it has been managed or- ganically for 12 months. For example, you can plant non-organic strawberry plants and harvest an organic crop that same year after planting (after failing to find commercially available organic plants) whether you manage the strawberries as an annual or a perenni- al. If you buy a non-organic tarragon plant, you can sell the tarra- gon as organic immediately after planting in organic soil, but could not make cuttings and sell those as organic tarragon plants for 12 months.

Items such as potatoes, garlic, and sweet potatoes (in other words, roots, tubers, rhizomes, shoots, leaf or stem cuttings) are subject to the organic search, and can be planted as non-organic if none were found. However, each year there is more and more availability of these items as organic, and your search must truly cover not just your local store, but also the many mail order and internet opera- tions that sell these items.

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 11 NEW FARMER CORNER Incubator Farms Grow New Farmers By Lindsay Rebhan The New Farmer Corner highlights issues of The incubator farm is “Land plus materials, particular interest to those new to farming, no support and resources–a safety net,” John ex- matter what age. If you have an idea for an ar- plained. “Land access allows us to develop our ticle, contact Lindsay at neworganicstewards@ business and clientle, without spending our gmail.com. See the New Organic Stewards nest egg on land, or taking out a large loan webpage www.neworganicstewards.org. first. For example, we’ve purchased a post-har- vest handling walk-in cooler and quality wash- New farmers are commonly challenged in able harvest totes. (Working in the incubator) finding support for training, land and capital allows us to do things the way we want to, and investments. Beginning farmers may need decreases our waste. We are able to invest in to consider a large amount of debt in order to specialty equipment, so when we’re ready to start their farm business. They may not have buy a farm we’ll hit the ground running with- farming backgrounds, and have much to learn out having to do it all at once.” about business and production. One solution to filling the diverse needs of the next genera- An incubator farm’s available space, farm type tion of farmers is through incubator farm pro- and resources will dictate how the incubator grams. program will operate. At Organic Field School, Fazenda Boa Terra joins with the other farms An incubator farm offers land, technical as- Karla Pankow appreciates the in purchasing items such as cover crop seed, sistance and equipment for beginning farm- opportunities in incubator farming row cover and irrigation supplies, to get bet- ers during the critical early years of start-up. ter prices and save on shipping. John explains There are only a few incubator farms in the Bossy Acres. This will be their second sea- that the incubator farmers have easy access to Midwest. Organic Field School in Northfield, son farming, and their first at Organic Field supplies and are able to “pay for it as we need Minn., is one. Organic Field School (OFS) is a School. An incubator program is “an environ- it.” John also appreciates being able to share 501c3 nonprofit of the Wedge Community Co- ment that fosters education, experience and greenhouse space, and being able to schedule op, hosted at Gardens of Eagan. Three farms hands-on learning,” Karla explained. “It en- equipment use. The opportunities for cross-pol- are currently “incubating” at OFS: Fazenda ables us to have the interaction, land, wealth lination are great. Boa Terra, Bossy Acres, and Humble Pie. Both of experience and a networking foundation. Bossy Acres and Humble Pie will start their These local pioneers have opened a whole new There’s a need for more incubator farms. The first season at Organic Field School in 2013. world. Now we get to focus on farming. We can opportunity sets up a natural framework to learn systems and efficiencies. It’s an umbrella connect experienced farms with beginning “We’re proud to welcome two such distinctive of support to own and operate our business.” farmers. “It would be awesome to see more farms into our incubator program,” OFS Pro- veteran farmers stepping up and giving an gram Director, Allison Goin, said. “As OFS John Middleton and Lidia Dungue co-own Fa- opportunity like this to new farmers,” Karla broadens its reach in the community, we know zenda Boa Terra. “This is our third season,” added. Gardens of Eagan was an incubator that farms like Bossy Acres and Humble Pie John said. “We moved in 2010 and founded the for Loon Organics, renting land, greenhouse represent the future of our growing, robust or- business while working at Gardens of Eagan. space, tractor time, and mentoring support. ganic farming community, and we’re looking Our current operation is a CSA vegetable farm “We heard about this experience, as Loon Or- forward to fostering these viable, independent with 110+ varieties on five acres. We’ve done ganics was our mentor in the MOSES mentor farm businesses.” CSA farming for 10 years. There is a huge dif- program,” she said. “We started courting Gar- Karla Pankow and Elizabeth Millard co-own ference from being an employee to managing dens of Eagan and Organic Field School. It was the books, understanding production, and run- a good fit and they let us on board. We are all ning a business.” learning together.”

Humble Pie Farm was started in 2012 by Jen- This is going to be an amazing year for the nifer Nelson and Mike Leck, both of whom Bossy ladies. “The smallest taste of this ex- gained organic farming experience as employ- perience already has made us know we can’t ees of Gardens of Eagan. In 2013, they will imagine going back to our inefficient system of grow cut flowers and herbs at Organic Field last season,” Karla said. “Driving to multiple School as a specialty add-on to CSA shares of sites, not having proper post harvest handling Fazenda Boa Terra. resources, working five times as hard. We feel like we won the lottery! Our time and energy is not diffused on extraneous things that are not farming. We’d probably be renting land, and Minnesota Crop poor land at that. It’s so much more than just Improvement Association land access–which was our big focus initially. Ensuring Upper Midwest Organic Product Integrity Since 2002 Our operation last year was farming 1.5 acres inefficiently with 47 members and markets. This year at Organic Field School will be with ORGANIC CERTIFICATION SERVICES three acres, 71 members, farmers markets and specialty markets.”

• Handlers Aside from the land rental, Bossy Acres has • Processors access to high quality coolers, the pack shed, greenhouse, tractors, implements and irriga- • Producers tion at a subsidized cost. “We get advantages • Wild Crop like bulk ordering. They have storage, fork lifts • Livestock and we can place separate orders and get bulk volume items, compost, potting soil, vermicu- lite, poultry litter, organic fertilizer blends” LocaL Responsive committed to seRvice Karla said. “Sometimes you just don’t know what you need. We are learning what parts/ 1900 Hendon Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108 1-855-213-4461 / www.mnica.org To Incubator on page 17

12 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013 Cropland... from page 4 cally.” Bryan’s also proud of the fact that “we PuraMaize... from page 9 didn’t take any farmland away from another “Bankers did not understand organics at first,” farmer who was depending on land.” In other short season. PuraMaize is a game-changer Bryan explained. “Bankers are very familiar words, the Kerkaerts have been intentional for organic farmers because it will allow us to with conventional but not organic. In order to about acquiring land from farmers who were plant how we want and when we want without get financing, we had to contract all of our corn offering rental acreage for the first time [such the worry of GMO contamination.” and use that to cash flow.” as CRP]. “We didn’t go to auctions and outbid someone who’s been farming land for 20-30-40 Recent GMO testing by independent agency Crop insurance too has been a challenge, par- years,” Bryan added. Genetic ID of Fairfield, Iowa, rated farmer ticularly for small grains. The Kerkaerts use PuraMaize samples as “GMO Not Detected, a combination of conventional insurance (for Goals: The Kerkaerts fully intend to continue negative at the operational limit of 0.05%.” corn and soybeans) and the Non-Insured Crop farming organically but say they’d like to do This affirms that PuraMaize performs as ex- Disaster Assistance Program insurance (for so only under long-term lease agreements or, pected, making it possible for the organic farm- small grains). The Risk Management Agency ideally, on farm land of their own. “Five years er to grow a GMO-free crop. (RMA) provides insurance for organic and ago, we had to learn the agronomics of how to transitional crops at conventional prices. RMA farm organically,” Bryan said. “Now we need Although PuraMaize is confirmed to prevent will insure damage caused by insects, disease some land security. We’d like to buy a farm and contamination, it is not, however, a silver bul- or weeds if recognized organic farming prac- pay for it before we retire.” The Kerkaerts are let. PuraMaize cannot stop pollen movement, tices fail to provide control. Bryan, however, actively looking for a farmstead with land so but it can block successful fertilization by non- expects that crop insurance decisions will be- that they can eliminate the drive time to fields PuraMaize pollen. Farmers still have to clean come easier in the future for organic farmers. and the financial uncertainty associated with out and monitor all equipment used for plant- For the first time, in 2012, the Kerkaerts were rental agreements. ing, harvesting, and hauling grain. For more able to insure certified organic corn and soy- information on other ways to reduce GMO beans at projected organic prices. Advice: “Your transition years are loss years,” contamination, refer to “GMO Contamination Bryan explained. “You have to change your Prevention- What Does it Take?” Finally, Bryan has been disappointed with mindset when switching to organics–you have his transition experience on CRP acreage. He to think long term about rotations and really Organic Certification acknowledges that there is a learning curve plan ahead–for productivity and cash flow.” PuraMaize has been reviewed and approved when transitioning land but suggests that for organic use by OCIA of Lincoln, Neb., the challenges become exacerbated when tilling up Gigi Digiacomo is a research fellow at the organic certifier for Blue River Hybrids. Blue CRP ground. “There’s a reason that the land Department of Applied Economics, University River Hybrids currently offers three Pura- was put in CRP,” Bryan said. “Nutrient avail- of Minnesota. Maize hybrids. 58PM36 is USDA certified or- ability has been really low. We’ve worked hard ganic. 47PM36cnv and 71PM50cnv are provid- to make sure that fertility is available at the This profile was prepared for the Tools for ed as conventional untreated seed, approved right time.” In Bryan’s experience, the CRP Transition project-a four-year research and ed- for use on organic farms under the NOP provi- land didn’t produce well until the third year ucation effort funded by the USDA’s National sion that an organic equivalent is not available. following initial tillage. Institute of Food and Agriculture. Transition Plans are being made to offer organic 71PM50 scholarships are available for Minnesota field for the 2014 growing season. After overcoming many hurdles, the Kerkaerts crop and dairy farmers participating in the face one final challenge: rental costs. Land Farm Business Management Program. Con- To learn more about PuraMaize including in- prices in their area have gone up by 25 per- tact Meg Moynihan for scholarship informa- formation on summer field days and confer- cent annually over the past few years. This tion at 651-201-6616 or email meg.moynihan@ ence workshops, visit www.blueriverorgseed. has become a significant cash flow issue for the state.mn.us. com or call the Blue River Hybrids office 800- Kerkaerts. Their solution: negotiate long-term 370-7979. To read Jim Riddle’s publication leases and eventually find a farm of their own “GMO Contamination Prevention- What Does to purchase. Public Service Announcement it Take?” go to http://mosesorganic.org/otherre- sources_farmers.html#farmersites. Success Story: The Kerkaerts feel that the We at MOSES recognize that seed worst is behind them. When asked what they PuraMaize is a registered trademark of Cer- is the foundation of our organic food are most proud of, Bryan and Theresa don’t rado Natural Systems Group, Inc., of Hooper, system. We invite you to join us in have to think long. “When we began farming Neb. the low-to-no input organic land it was end–to– supporting the ethical development end weeds,” Theresa said. “And, now, we have and stewardship of seed. Please visit good looking fields and we did it all organi- www.seedalliance.org.

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 13 Estate... from page 1 Tool #3: Trusts. Trusts can be used for any the land to the new farmer, or enter into a lawful purpose and are useful in a variety long-term lease of at least five years with be unable to buy the other children’s interest of ways to promote sustainable and organic the new farmer. The program gives the in it, potentially resulting in the sale of the farming practices on a parcel of land. A farmer retiring farmer two additional years of CRP farm. wishing to encourage future generations payments, while helping the next generation to farm sustainably, but who is shy of land of farmers. While not specific to organic This is especially true for organic farmers, conservation easements, may consider farming, the CRP program does tend to ease who must renew organic certification each placing the farm or farming equipment in a the transition of land from conventional to year. There may not be a lot of time to trust. Trusts can be very flexible, and it may organic farming if the land has been fallow. transition the farm and maintain its organic be possible for a farmer to place the entire status. A farm left in limbo while a family farm in a trust and direct the trustee to only Tool #7: Deed Restrictions. In theory, feud or complicated financial situation is allow organic farming practices. when a farmer sells or otherwise transfers untangled risks losing its organic certification land, the farmer can put any restrictions he simply through neglect. It is clear that Tool #4: Wills and Marital Agreements. or she wants right on the deed. This can be farmers seeking to transfer their farm to the Wills can control the disposition of the useful if the owner wants to guarantee the next generation in one piece must engage in probate estate, such as property that is not farm’s sustainable use after his or her death. estate planning. in a trust. A will may be a viable option if the However, it considerably ties the hands of farmer does not anticipate any problems with the recipient. It may take court intervention Organic Farmer’s Estate Planning the next generation maintaining the farm. (or a release procedure written into the deed) Toolkit In addition, a farmer could add a component to get the restriction released. And it would So what can a sustainable farmer do to avoid to the farmer’s will which requires a deed almost certainly significantly impact the the pitfalls listed above? First of all, it is restriction to be put on any land transfer sale price of the land if the children or other vital to work with an estate planner to tailor (see Tool #7). However, it is important to recipient had legitimate reasons for selling. a plan to a farmer’s needs. The following are remember that marital property, which may a few tools a farmer might use to transfer very well include the farm, is owned equally Tool #8 (And Perhaps the Most Important not only the farm, but the farm’s organic or by the spouses, so both spouses should be on of All): Communication. Talking about sustainable nature. board with the estate plan. In general, a will estate planning and one’s last wishes is is not the best way to dictate a property’s vitally important. The best estate plans can Tool #1: Agriculture Conservation Land usage into the future, but a farmer can go awry if the farmer fails to communicate Easements. Farmers uncertain about who memorialize his or her wish that the farm his or her wishes with the family. This will receive the land after their death, or continue its sustainable practices. While is especially important if the estate plan who know that the next generation does not communicating one’s wishes with the family contains provisions that may upset or cherish sustainable farming practices, may before death is the best option, this gentle surprise members of the family. be able secure the farm’s status through reminder may help prevent family members the sale of an agriculture conservation land from opposing the deceased farmer’s wishes. Estate planning can be a difficult topic, even easement. Such an easement can be tailored Additionally, marital agreements can be for what seems like a simple estate. For to fit each farm and to include organic or used to ensure that both spouses transfer a organic and other sustainable farmers hoping sustainable practices. Including these farm to the same person. to preserve their land’s sustainable farming practices in the easement ensures the land’s practices for future generations, this problem future use as an organic or sustainable farm. Tool #5: Long-Term Rental Contracts can become even more difficult. However, and Options to Purchase. In the right with a proper estate plan in place, farmers Tool #2: Agricultural Preservation circumstance, a farmer who knows that his can help ensure their wishes will be carried Programs. The Wisconsin Working Lands or her family does not intend to farm the out and their way of farming will continue. Initiatives offer a variety of programs land after the farmer’s death could consider seeking to preserve agriculture. They offer a long-term rental contract. Including longer Edited by Terry Dunst, Bakke Norman, S.C., various levels of tax breaks for program terms and organic or sustainable techniques New Richmond, Wisconsin participation. Farmers can participate in the lease agreement could help ensure in Farmland Preservation Agreements, those land uses. A farmer who is aware Farmland Preservation Zoning, and that his or her family is not interested in Purchase of Agricultural Conservation farming sustainably or organically, but who Easement Programs, as described above. knows someone who is, could prepare a lease Preservation Agreements and Preservation agreement with an option to purchase as part Zoning are briefly discussed below. While of the estate planning process. these programs are not particularly tailored Our Local Producer to protect the organic status of a farm, they Tool #6: Conservation Reserve Program’s Loan Program is one more way can help to ensure that a farm remains a Transition Incentives Program. A retiring Whole Foods Market farm. farmer with expiring CRP land may use the supports Local food Transitions Incentives Program to allow a communities. If you are not a Wisconsin farmer, you may beginning or socially disadvantaged farmer Learn more and apply online at: wish to ask your county agent or state’s (cannot be a family member) to begin a wholefoodsmarket.com Department of Agriculture about similar Conservation Reserve Program–or the new programs. farmer may begin transitioning to organic farming. The retiring farmer must then sell Identi ty Preserved Ingredients Certi fi ed Organic & Conventi onal Non-GMO

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While the number of women farmers increased “Lisa Kivirist exemplifies the collaborative nearly 30 percent according to the last US spirit of women farmers today who see their Census of Agriculture, few resources exist to farm business as much more than just a job support this movement, particularly for wom- or a paycheck–it’s a passionate calling that is en launching small-scale, sustainable opera- driven by a desire to truly transform our food tions with a goal of growing healthy, seasonal system and increase healthy food access for food for their local community. Not any more. future generations,” Faye added. “Lisa’s lead- The Rural Women’s Project, a venture of the ership and vision creates connections and op- Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education portunities for women farmers that never ex- Service (MOSES), uniquely champions these isted before in our state’s rural communities, women farmers. The project recently received a particularly for young and beginning growers 2012 Top Rural Development Initiative Award who are drawn to her positive energy for cham- from Wisconsin Rural Partners in recognition pioning new farm business start-ups.” of its innovative approaches to women farmer training and outreach. Kathy Schmidt of the Wis. Farm Center presents the “A key strength of Wisconsin’s rural communi- award to Lisa Kivirist, MOSES Rural Women’s Project ties has always been our commitment to collab- “Since the MOSES Rural Women’s Project oration and supporting each other,’ said Dennis (RWP) launched in 2009, we’ve connected agencies such as the Wisconsin Farmers Union Deery, WRP Vice-President. “This is the 13th with and trained over 1,000 women farmers, and the Women, Food and Agriculture Network year that Wisconsin Rural Partner’s has pre- the vast majority of which are beginning and (WFAN). Three key rural Wisconsin projects sented the state’s Top Rural Development Ini- young farmers,” MOSES Executive Director- include the “In Her Boots: Sustainable Farm- tiatives, and the MOSES Rural Women’s Proj- Faye Jones said. “It’s an honor for MOSES to ing for Women By Women” on-farm training ect continues this dedication to stewarding our receive this award and to showcase the amaz- series, “Women Caring for the Land” conser- countryside for generations to come.” ing movement and mission of women farmers vation training for women landowners, and both in Wisconsin and across the country who “Soil Sisters: South Central Wisconsin Women For more information on the MOSES Ru- are committed to stewarding the landscape in Sustainable Agriculture Farm Tour.” These ral Project, including training and farm tour and raising healthy food that positively affects initiatives receive support from a variety of dates, see www.mosesorganic.org/womenspro- our rural areas.” sources, including USDA Risk Management ject or contact Lisa Kivirist at lisa@innseren- and Sustainable Agriculture Research & Edu- dipity.com. “These Top Rural Development Initiative cation (SARE). “Plate to Politics,” a partner- awards are designed to identify, highlight, ship project with WFAN, encourages and sup- and share innovative models, practices and ports women farmers to take on community programs that have a positive impact on ru- leadership roles to promote healthy food sys- ral Wisconsin communities and to provide tem change. a mechanism for rural communities to learn from each other,” added Rick Rolfsmeyer, Ex- “Each of these initiatives came to life based on ecutive Director of Wisconsin Rural Partners the collaborative networking and peer-driven (WRP). WRP is a statewide non-profit organi- model that women farmers learn best from zation that develops leadership, networks and each other,” shared Lisa Kivirist, founder and a voice for rural regions and is the federally coordinator of the RWP. Kivirist and her fam- recognized State Rural Development Council ily also run Inn Serendipity Farm and B&B for Wisconsin. “The MOSES Rural Women’s outside Monroe, Wis. She is the co-author of Project exemplifies the heartbeat of what keeps Farmstead Chef, Rural Renaissance and ECO- Wisconsin’s rural areas vibrant by supporting preneuring. new entrepreneurs who not only want to run successful businesses in rural areas, but also “A strong segment of women farmers share a see their ventures, in this case women-owned commitment to education and supporting the farms, as a platform to transform and improve sustainable and organic agriculture move- the health of our communities.” ment,” Lisa said. “Creating settings such as our all-day In Her Boots workshops on women- The RWP runs a variety of programs to facili- owned farms facilitates connections and shar- tate collaboration and to support the growing ing of knowledge and resources. Women farm- number of women starting farms and food- ers, particularly rural women growers, often based businesses. These programs strengthen feel isolated and alone. The RWP helps create local food systems and build committed, en- a bridge among women in the movement.” gaged partnerships with other non-profits and

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 15 NEWS BRIEFS

Organic Research and Outreach in the Midwest Vegetable servation Stewardship Program, which was left North Central Region Report Released Production Guide Released out of the government spending bill last Octo- A new report from the Ceres Trust includes The Midwest Vegetable Production Guide for ber. This program rewards farmers and ranch- state-specific details about current and past or- Commercial Growers from Purdue University ers for good conservation measures currently in ganic research, student organic farms, certified Extension is available for sale in print, or free on- place, plus provides cost-share funds for addi- organic research land and animals, sources of line. Topics include soil, transplants, diseases, tional conservation activities. CSP applications organic research funding, dissemination of or- production, and specific crop recommendations, are managed by the Natural Resources Conser- ganic research results through field days and with chapters on organic vegetable production vation Service (NRCS). You can apply through peer-reviewed journals, and organic education and on reduced-risk pesticides/biopesticides. your local NRCS office. efforts of nonprofit organizations. www.cer- www.btny.purdue.edu/pubs/id/id-56/ estrust.org Minn. Specialty Crop Grants Videos on Soil, Hoophouses, and Coolers The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is ac- Organic Contributes to Climate Protection Available in Hmong and Spanish cepting grant proposals for specialty crop re- In a newly released study German Professor Spring Rose Growers Cooperative in Madison, search under the USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Kurt-Jürgen Hülsbergen from Technische Uni- Wisconsin, has released three educational You- Grant Program. The goal of the program is to versität München (TUM) developed a compre- Tube videos in both Hmong and Spanish. Titles fund projects that will increase the competitive- hensive model that shows organic farming not include: “How to build a low cost hoophouse,” ness of specialty crops. For a complete list of only produces less greenhouse gases, but also “How to make an organic soil mix,” and “How to crops that qualify for research, go to www.ams. uses less energy than conventional farming build a low cost cooler.” http://bit.ly/ZKVEgK usda.gov/scbgp. For a copy of the Minnesota techniques. The benefit of organic practices is Specialty Crop Block Grant RFP/Grant Manu- especially apparent in dairy farming. http://bit. UW-Extension Compost Survey al and application form, go to www.mda.state. ly/13hZkqc UW Extension is asking farmers to fill out a sur- mn.us/grants/grants/specialty.aspx. MDA will vey about on-farm composting practices in Wisc. accept applications from eligible entities submit- to determine if the farming community needs as- ted by 4:00 p.m. on May 29, 2013. NSAC Food Safety Website sistance with their composting operations. The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition has survey is web based and should take about 5 launched a new food safety website with re- minutes to complete. https://uwex.qualtrics.com/ sources for farmers, on-farm processors, and SE/?SID=SV_6eRsRTJJVnxuIqp consumers. NSAC’s new site provides an over- view and background of the Food Safety Mod- ernization Act, information about two proposed Diffley Wins Book Award rules, and instructions on how to comment. Atina Diffley, former MOSES Board member, http://sustainableagriculture.net/fsma/ was recently awarded one of the 25th An- nual Minn. Book Awards under the category of Memoir and Creative Non-fiction for her recent Help for Creating Farm Food Safety Plans book, Turn Here, Sweet Corn. The annual Min- Food safety should be on everyone’s mind, and nesota Book Awards program is a project of The new resources from FamilyFarmed.org will help. Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library and the They’ve created a set of useful tools (in English City of Saint Paul. and Spanish) to help you understand food safety issues and create a food safety plan. Check it out at http://onfarmfoodsafety.org/ KOPN Food Sleuth Radio Join Melinda Hemmelgarn, MOSES Board tiny but mighty popcorn member, registered dietitian and investigative 2012 Program Recipient RMA Fact Sheet on Crop Insurance nutritionist, for 28-minute, weekly interviews with Shellsburg, IA for Organic Farming national experts in food, health and agriculture. USDA Risk Management Agency has released Provocative, practical and personal, Food Sleuth a three-page fact sheet titled “Organic Farming Radio helps us think beyond our plates to find Practices” providing details on crop insurance “food truth.” Podcasts are available at www.prx. our local producer loan program is one more way Whole Foods Market supports local for organic producers. www.rma.usda.gov/pubs/ org/series/32432-food-sleuth-radio food communities. Learn more and apply online at rme/2013organicsfactsheet.pdf wholefoodsmarket.com

CSP Sign-up Now Open for 2013 Recent legislation provides funding for the Con-

16 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013 Inside Organics... from page 3 Incubator... from page 12 lustrates a serious lack of understanding of the systems are sustainable and apply to our farm organic certification process. The valid organic business, and what makes sense for when we certificate, not the organic inspection report, is leave in a few years. For example, we now have the verification that the farmer is in compli- access to a $20,000 flat filler that fills 150 flats ance with the USDA organic regulations. The an hour. Last season we had a kiddie pool, bag certification agency is the body that annually compost, hand mixed with water and it took determines whether or not the farm receives an entire day to do the same amount. We know organic certification, not the inspector. we won’t have all the same quality equipment Farm Hack + MOSES when we leave. For now we will marinate, gain New Organic Stewards This requirement is problematic for a variety experience, knowing what to save for, what we Field Day of reasons. We should not put the power to want and need.” June 2 10:00am – 4:00pm $15 deny crop insurance in the hands of someone Organic Field School, Northfield, Minn. who does not understand the organic certifica- Karla reflected that “just being around expe- Pre-registration REQUIRED tion process, and who could easily misinterpret rienced farmers, we have received so much www.mosesorganic.org or 715-778-5775 the inspector’s observations or comments. The knowledge. The exchange of information, inspection report will be an incomplete look at sometimes just dialogue in passing and being Have you built a tool, or retrofitted a what the farmer’s overall plans are for utiliz- in a like-minded community, means so much. machine or implement to fit your farming ing good farming practices and achieving opti- Geography is also really important. The farm- needs? Are you thinking about how to mum yields. The organic inspection report is a ing community in Northfield is bursting at the “snapshot” of what was seen on a specific day seams. The surrounding community of support increase efficiency on your farm? Let’s and time. Organic certification is not based on and building relationships, it all trickles down innovate together. Join us for a day what is seen on one day, but on the overall sys- and helps get resources in the hands of farm- of working with tractors, implements, tem that is in place on the farm. The informa- ers.” designing tools and showcasing farm tion provided by the inspector to the certifica- innovations for sustainable agriculture. tion agency, along with the completed Organic When asked about what will happen after the Bring your hacks! System Plan, allows the Certification Agency incubator experience, John explained that in to make the decision to approve organic certi- general “everyone eventually takes the plunge, Farm Hack, a project of the National fication. and buys a farm. In working with the incuba- Young Farmers Coalition in partnership tor farm, the idea is you have more in place so with The Greenhorns, MOSES New The organic farmer retains field activity re- transitioning to your own farm is less of a chal- Organic Stewards, and Organic Field cords that verify they are doing tillage, plant- lenge. We aren’t paying a mortgage on a farm ing, cultivation, pest control and harvest ac- as we learn. Ideally we’ll be on solid financial School are hosting a Farm Hack Field tivities that would result in a good crop yield. ground, with established value, confidence in Day to develop, document and build If the inspector arrives in the spring, the crop our production numbers, and have an exist- tools and machinery for a more resilient production records discussed in the report may ing base and market,” John pointed out. These agricultural system. be for the previous year, and not for the cur- will all be important when John and Lidia ap- rent crop year covered by the crop insurance. proach the Farm Service Agency for a loan for Through a collaborative, farmer-driven The organic farmer can choose to share his or their own farm some day. design community both online and in- her records with the insurance provider, just person, Farm Hack seeks to change as a conventional crop producer shares his her- All this goodness begs the question–how can the culture of agricultural technology to bicide application records. we mirror this experience for more future one of creative, open-source adaptation farmers in our community? Experienced farm- and invention that fits the needs of the As a final point, organic inspectors and certifi- ers: are there beginning farmers in your area cation agencies have specific disclaimers on the that you could help incubate in some way? Be- diverse farmers working our land. Farm inspection report stating it is not to be used for ginning farmers: we encourage you to seek out Hack embodies the movement taking any other purpose than for the organic certifi- experienced farmers in your community and place across the country to re-imagine cation agency to determine compliance to the see how you could collaborate. In the meantime our agricultural system. organic regulation. talk to your community about incubator mod- els, check out www.organicfieldschool.org, and This movement is being led by young In order to maintain fairness, the crop insur- support the incubation happening there with and beginning farmers who have ance program needs to recognize that an or- donations. found that working collaboratively and ganic field can be wiped out by a hail storm, creatively is necessary to overcoming just like a conventional field, no matter how Lindsay Rebhan works with Renewing the the formidable obstacles to farming good the farmer’s organic practices are. Insur- Countryside in partnership with MOSES on success in our country today. ance agents should not be given the power to the New Organic Stewards project. deny or lessen crop insurance payments based Event Contact: Lindsay Rebhan at on a misinformed interpretation of an organic [email protected]. Visit the inspection report. Organic farmers should have Farm Hack website at http://farmhack.net access to crop insurance protection based on truly realistic crop yields, and monetary losses based on historical prices or contracts, just like any other farmer. We must support, and not penalize, farmers who choose to be organic.

RMA has released a three-page fact sheet titled “Organic Farming Practices” pro- viding details on crop insurance for or- ganic producers. www.rma.usda.gov/pubs/ rme/2013organicsfactsheet.pdf

Harriet Behar ([email protected]) is a MOSES Organic Specialist.

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www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 17 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Do you have something to buy or sell? Your classified ad will reach over 10,000 households in the print edition and be available in both the pdf and online version. Use the fill in form below, or go to www.mosesorganic.org/broadcaster.html to submit an ad electronically. experience the work and fun involved with Jerseys, EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK Belties, gardens and our corner of God’s creation. Business arrangement only. Different options avail- For Sale: Case “950” self-propelled windrower, 10 For Sale: Red polled Holstein bulls. Some A2A2 able. Let’s talk. Withee, Wis. Leave message at ft. cut, draper head, good condition. Also windrow- and Homozygous polled. Eaton, Ohio. Contact 715-669-3472. er trailer. Ridgeway, Iowa. Call 563-379-2726. Mark Yeazel at [email protected] or call 937- 533-0557. Opportunity: Peaceful Country Living! Rent a For Sale: Buffalo farm equipment and parts. New room, share a beautiful home on a CSA farm. and used. Will ship. Discounts. Hansgen Sales & For Sale: Twenty-five Angus cows pregnant with Board your horse and ride in an outdoor arena, Service, St. Charles, Minn. Call 507-932-4219. MOSA-certified organic calves. 100% grass-fed, pasture, woods. Enjoy organic produce, honey, free-range cattle. Vet verified fall calvers. South- eggs, bonfires. Easy commute into Rochester, For Sale: Rosskamp roller mill in good condition. west Wis. Call 608-452-2861. Minn. $350.00/month. Available May 1. Contact Kewaunee, Wis. Call Steve at 920-388-3368. Norm Gross at [email protected] For Sale: Brown Swiss bulls and heifers. Central For Sale: 3-pt hitch; 2-man operated seeder or Wis. Call Pete at 715-281-0900. For Sale: SUSTAINABLE LIVING NEAR THE pumpkin planter, $375.00. Glenbeulah, Wis. Don BWCAW! Small town homestead for sale at edge Schroeder. 920-526-3510. For Sale: Herd of cows. 30 Holsteins and 2 Brown of Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – Swiss. MOSA certified. Call 715-977-0602 or 715- Ely end. Well-insulated, two BR, one bath, 1955 For Sale: Two 6-row Lilliston cultivators, one with 684-2455. rambler on a 60 X 180 foot lot. Fenced back yard row units. Both have new spiders. With spiders, has 200 feet of raised beds, drip irrigation, 10 X $3000.00. Without spiders, $2500.00. Thirty-foot 22 greenhouse, chicken coop with 12 bird capac- Kovar tine weeder, hydraulic fold, 3-pt, new 2-ft FORAGES ity, and a woodshed. Inside has hardwood floors, tines, $4500.00. Husky 5000 gallon liquid spread- Hearthstone “Heritage” woodstove on main floor, er, $7500.00. Baldwin, Wis. Call Rich Holman, For Sale: Certified organic hay, first crop, $4.75 and Vermont Castings “Encore” in the basement. 715-684-2488 or 715-410-1060 (cell). per bale. Certified organic straw, fine chopped, Huge wood room downstairs with study, work $3.50 per bale. Ray Borntreger, N2955 State Rd room, and partial bathroom. Ricing beds, white- For Sale: 4-row Kovar drag, long tines, used very 54, Melrose, Wis. 54642-8133. fish/tulibee netting, and public access all nearby. little, excellent condition. $2500.00 OBO. 4-row $62,500.00. Call Jan Erchul, Bear Island Real LP flamer, $1500.00 OBO. Mayville, Wis. Call Estate, 218-349-0515. Gordy at 920-904-4962. GRAINS 50 ACRE NORTHERN ILLINOIS ECOLOGICAL For Sale: 30-ft. International rotary hoe, Model For Sale: Certified organic corn, $16 per bushel. FARM AUCTION, Sat., June 1 @ 10 a.m., 9669 181, fold-up wings, good condition. Older Inter- Ear or shelled. Ray Borntreger, N2955 State Rd N Bellview Rd, Freeport, Ill 61032. Details: 49.57 national 40-ft. cultivator, 1000 gallon poly tank, 54, Melrose, Wis. 54642-8133. acre conservation farm, modern, secluded, 1840 hydraulic pump, nice unit, good shape. Red Lake sq. ft. earth-shelter home with solar power, storage Falls, Minn. Call 218-686-2946. For Sale: Organic shelled corn. Can deliver. buildings, flowing creek, shallow water pond, forest Southwest, Wis. Call 608-574-2160. management timber, cropland, pasture area, CRP Wanted: 6-row 30-inch flamer or flamer/cultivator contract land income, recreational use, hunting, in working condition. Kewaunee, Wis. Call Steve For Sale: Open pollinated seed corn, MN13 88- abundant wildlife. Great organic farm possibilities. at 920-388-3368. day, Wapsie Valley 85-day. MOSA certified. 50# Bequeathed to Northwest Illinois Audubon Society. bags for $89.00. Call Rich Holman, 715-684-2488 Rare opportunity to own a unique property in a Wanted: Front or mid-mount 6-row cultivator to fit or 715-410-1060 (cell). private setting. Adjacent to Jane Addams Trail. Lo- J.D. tractor or other equipment. Greenwood, Wis. cated southwest of Orangeville, IL, west of RT. 26. Call 715-229-4681. For more info or private showing please contact OPPORTUNITIES Hack’s Auction & Realty Service, Pecatonica, IL, 815-239-1436, www.hacksauction.com Opportunity: Female on small farm offering op- portunity for another female who wants to learn and Organic Broadcaster Classified Ad Form

All ads must be pre-paid by Oct 1, Dec 1, Feb 1, April 1, June 1, or Aug 1 to run in the next issue! We encourage you to place your classified ad online at www.mosesorganic.org/broadcaster.html or email it directly to broadcaster@ mosesorganic.org. Or, mail this form and pre-payment to: MOSES, PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767. If you have questions, contact Jill at 715-778-5775 or [email protected].

Write your ad in the blanks below. Each blank can hold a word or a number. Punctuation is free.

______1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ______8 9 10 11 12 13 14 ______15 16 17 18 19 20 21 ______Up to this many words for only $12.00 22 23 24 25 up to 15 more words for an additional $6.00 ______Amount due: 25 words or less, $12.00= ______Up to an additional 15 words $6.00= ______Total per ad = ______Payment Information: Which Issue/s to run ad in? (month) ______Your Name:______x ______= $______Mailing Address:______# issues x price per = total due City:______State:______Zip:______Phone:______email:______

Method of Payment: (please check one) Check (enclosed) Credit Card (MC/Visa only) CC number:______Expiration date:______signature (needed for cc payment): ______

18 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013 Classified Ads, continued... While efforts were made to find a compromise, in the end, the two thirds majority needed to keep oxytet- NOSB Votes to End Antibiotic Use racycline on the national list was a hurdle that could For Rent: 300 acres certified organic cropland at for Fireblight Treatment Saint Mary of the Woods, Indiana – home of the not be cleared. Sisters of Providence. Call Sister Maureen Free- In 3 days of meetings April 9-11 in Portland Ore., after In other NOSB business, the following petitioned man, 812-535-2930. extensive verbal and written comments both pro and con, the National Organic Standards Board voted to materials were not approved for addition to the Wanted: Small farm with one-story house or build- end the use of oxytetracycline to control fireblight in national list: Polyoxin D Zinc Salt as a fungicide, able acreage for market vegetable production. Call apples and pears as of October 21, 2014. Ten posi- Indole-3-butyric acid as a rooting hormone, John Mehaffey at 941-916-5773 (cell). tive votes were needed to keep this on the national Sulfuric Acid as a processing aid for seaweed, list, and the vote was 9 to 6. This controversial mate- Sugar Beet Fiber and Barley beta fiber as agri- rial has been on the National List of approved syn- cultural products not available as organic, and MISCELLANEOUS thetics for organic production since 1995. 1,3, Dibromo-5, 5 dimethylhydantion as a disin- For Sale: Livestock Guardian Dog. Predator prob- fectant. Only Taurine was voted to be listed as a Consumer groups shared strong protests to allowing synthetic amino acid for pet food. lems? Consider a Polish Tatra puppy! Whelped on further use, tying their comments to the public health a sheep farm and will guard your flock and family. emergency with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Scien- $650.00 Lemont, Ill. Call 773-972-7839. tists spoke to the possible risk of bacterial resistance spreading not just among the bacteria causing fire- For Sale: Surplus insulated glass – perfect light, but also through gene transfer to other types of for greenhouses, solar homes, sunrooms or bacteria in the environment. ag buildings. Also hardwood butcher block 30”X100”X1-1/8” for sustainable countertops or Organic orchardists made a strong case to retain this bar tops. Oak, ash, cherry, maple, mahogany from material. Fireblight not only destroys a given year’s $129. www.kissourglass.com or 715-639-3762 crop, but can also destroy a whole orchard of apple before 9 p.m. Joe Bacon. Arctic Glass since 1979! or pear trees. Many years of labor, investment and the grower’s livelihood are at stake. Fireblight bacte- Liquid Pasture and Crop Fertilizers. Made in U.S.A. ria is present in the environment, although the exact NOP-organic 4-3-3. Biobased 4-3-3. Organic sea- climatic conditions of humidity, temperature, hail etc. weed. Liquid lime. Liquid bonemeal. Farm Fertilizer may only be present once every 2- 5 years causing a Results webpage has experiences by farmers and problem requiring treatment. Growers lamented the market growers. Quarts to totes. Shipped to your lack of research for alternatives to oxytetracycline. door. 574-200-9584. www.liquidfertilizerorganic. One promising material was registered for use last com summer (not yet allowed in California). This yeast- based product, Blossom Protect, as well as a cop- per-based product not yet registered for use, show Visit MOSES on the web for lots of some promise in trials. However, these products will not meet the needs of growers if weather conditions information, our online bookstore, cause significant fireblight across the U.S. this year. conference information and online registration, too! NOSB passed a resolution asking the National Or- ganic Program to look into allowing the use of oxytet- www.mosesorganic.org racycline until October 2017, if fireblight is declared as an emergency by a State or Federal agency. This use would then make that year’s crop nonorganic, but the orchard would still retain its organic certification.

Organic Connect with the Commodity Organic Farming Community Pricing on Facebook and Twitter! Resources Find MOSES on Facebook as Organic Grain Prices Midwest-Organic-and-Sustainable- National Organic Grain Education-Service-MOSES. Just and Feedstuffs Report click on the Facebook “f” on our (see curent report on this page) website, www.mosesorganic.org. CROPP Cooperative Grower Pool/ Then “like” us! Organic Trader Newsletter Makers of http://www.farmers.coop/feed-pro- gram/organic-trader/ 1-888-809-9297 Living Media Rodale Organic Price Report To make sure you see our posts on http://www.rodaleinstitute.org/ for Organic your Facebook news feed, hover Organic-Price-Report over the “Liked” button on the Organic Milk Prices MOSES Facebook page near the NODPA Growers cover photo. A menu will appear. 30 Keets Rd, Deerfield, MA 01342 Select “show in news feed.” FAX: 866- 554-9483 PHONE: 413 772 0444 NOW you’re connected! http://www.nodpa.com/payprice.shtml

Organic Livestock Prices CROPP Cooperative Organic Trader Newsletter Our Twitter handle is @mosesorganic. http://www.farmers.coop/feed-pro- Find us fast: click on the blue bird at gram/organic-trader/ 1-888-809-9297 www.mosesorganic.org. Where to Buy and Sell Your Organic Products 802-223-6049 | Montpelier, Vermont MOSES Organic Resource Directory vermontcompost.com http://www.mosesorganic.org/resour- cedirectory.html or request a hard copy by contacting MOSES, 715-778-5775 we speak organic

www.mosesorganic.org • 715-778-5775 19 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Look for additional events and updates at www.mosesorganic.org/events.html. Look for the wheat for MOSES sponsored events! May 2, Online AgriMarketing: Planning Before You Plant Webinar, May 22, Employees On Your Farm Webinar Aug. 27, 8:00 - 4:30 Grass-fed Beef, Row Crops and Join Scott Skelly of Corn Mazes America (Janesville), to look In this evening webinar offered by Countryside Conservancy Tom Poultry Field Day, Sandy Ridge Farm, Tampico, Ill., $30 pre- past the hoopla of online marketing and social media and help Green of Kastner, Westman & Wilkins will discuss what you need to registered/$40 at the door. Pre-registration preferred. More you determine what online machinery are the best tools for your have in place before you make the first hire. Learn the differences info on page 6 and at www.mosesorganic.org. job. Sponsored by Wis. Department of Agriculture, Trade and between laws for employees, contractors, and apprentices so you Consumer Protection. More information and registration: http://1. can make the appropriate choice when the time comes. www. Sept. 8, 11:00-4:00 Soil Sisters: South Central Women in usa.gov/ZuFcRx (608) 224-5012 cvcountryside.org/farmers/SpecialtyCropSeries.php Sustainable Agriculture Farm Tour, www.soilsisterswi.org. More info on page 8 and at www.mosesorganic.org. May 2, Farm Food Safety Plan Workshop, Bottineau, N.D. May 30, Using Life Cycle Assessment to drive sustainability A one-day Food Safety Plan Workshop to give you the tools to decisions Webinar. Learn how companies use life cycle Sept. 15, 1:00 – 5:00 Transitioning to Organic field day, document, plan, and approach food safety on your farm; and an assessment to evaluate product environmental impacts and design Gardens of Eagan, Northfield, Minn. More info on page 8 and opportunity to write your own Food Safety Plan with the staff from options and evaluate an entire portfolio of products to help drive at www.mosesorganic.org. the Entrepreneurial Center for Horticulture and Dakota College overall product strategy with the environment in mind. http://www. in Bottineau and FARRMS in Medina. A follow-up webinar will sustainablefoodtrade.org/ Sept. 16, 12:30 – 4:30 Vegetable Diversification, PrairiErth be included in the course materials with additional information Farm, Bloomington, Ill. More info on page 8 and at www. on North Dakota Farm to School opportunities, insurance, and June 2, MOSES Organic Field Day, New Organic Stewards mosesorganic.org. marketing using your plan./www.farrms.org/ - Farm Hack, Gardens of Eagan, Organic Field School, Northfield, Minn. Info on page 17. May 5-6, Annual Spring Planting Festival, Mansfield, Mo. Browse through thousands of varieties of plants and learn how June 12, Wisconsin FFA, Madison, Wis. Visit the MOSES booth! to grow them with our acclaimed guest speakers. Info at www. Liquid Fish Inc. rareseeds.com, 417-924-8917 June 14, 1:00 – 5:00 Restoration Agriculture: An Introduction to Farm-Scale Permaculture with Mark Shepard, New Forest May 6, Ten Simple Steps to Safer Produce Webinar Farm, Viroqua, Wis. This event is free, but registration is Selling Ocean Fish since The Missouri Beginning Farmers Program is offering this webinar required. Limited to 40 people. NO walk-ins will be allowed 1988 with Chris Blanchard of Rock Spring Farm beginning at 7 pm the day of the event. Registration opens May 1st. More info on CDT. To join the webinar go to univmissouri.adobeconnect.com/ page 6 and at www.mosesorganic.org. We spray products and debikelly. No registration is needed. http://agebb.missouri.edu/ mac/agopp/calendar.htm June 22-24 Spaulding’s Famous Goat School, Littlefork, MN service for just--- Weekend of hands-on training and education in the care, breeding, May 9, Wisconsin Food Labeling and Requirements Webinar, and management of dairy and meat goats. Subjects will cover $30/acre! OMRI approved Shannon Dorn, WDATCP will cover basic label requirements disease prevention, dehorning, emergencies, kidding, parasites for retail-packaged food products in Wis. Nutritional labeling control through rotational grazing, and good milking procedures. Call now at 715-758-2280 exemptions and appropriate declaration of major food allergens Optional after-session will cover cheese making and soap making will also be discussed. More information and registration: http://1. from goat milk. Presented by Ken and Janice Spaulding; hosted by PO Box 99, Bonduel, WI usa.gov/ZuFcRx (608) 224-5012 Elizabeth Pendergast at North County Farm. Call 218-278-8888. 54107 May 9, Answers About Organic Webinar July 9-11, Wis. Farm Technology Days, Dallas, Wis. Visit the An overview of the organic certification process, what it takes to MOSES booth! We sell bulk fish. transition, and the resources available to make the change. The webinar is sponsored by the NRCS West National Technology July 25, 9:00 – 3:00 MOSES’ Farmer of the Year Charlie Support Center, in partnership with Oregon Tilth. www. Johnson, Organic Crops Field Day @ Johnson Farms, conservationwebinars.net/webinars/answers-about-organic Madison, SD. More info on page 6 and at www.mosesorganic. org. May 11, Small-Farm Machinery Field Day, Spence Farm, Fairbury, ll. Sessions will include: choosing the right implements for the job, July 27, Kickapoo Country Fair, La Farge, Wis. Visit the MOSES maintaining those tools, demonstrations of the machinery in action booth! and several different methods for keeping your body uninjured while using large and small scale equipment. More information and Aug. 4, 10:00 – 4:00 In Her Boots, Sustainable Agriculture registration http://spencefarmfoundation.org, (815) 992-3296 for Women, By Women, Canoe Creek Produce, Decorah, Iowa.More info on page 6 and at www.mosesorganic.org. May 16, Soil Health Testing Webinar Missouri Beginning Farmers presents a webinar with David Aug. 6-8 Farm Fest, Redwood County, Minn. Visit the MOSES Hammer, Director of MU Soil Health Lab and Professor of Soil booth! Science, MU College of Engineering. To join the webinar log in at univmissouri.adobeconnect.com/debikelly Aug. 8, 10:00 – 4:00 In Her Boots, Sustainable Agriculture for Women, By Women, Kenyon, Minn. More info on page 6 May 17, Farm-Scale Composting: A Means to attaining Farm and at www.mosesorganic.org. Resilience through building Soil Fertility Workshop, East Troy, Wis. This course will provide the theoretical and practical basis Aug. 18, 10:00 – 4:00 In Her Boots, Sustainable Agriculture regarding the importance of composting in agriculture. http:// for Women, By Women , Scotch Hill Farm, Brodhead, Wis. michaelfields.org/events. (262) 642-3303 More info on page 6 and at www.mosesorganic.org.

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20 Organic Broadcaster • May - June 2013