March 25, 2016 • Vol. 80, Num­ber 3

Published monthly by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture • www.vermontagriculture.com

Shumlin Celebrates 2016 Maple Sugaring Season at Sugartree Maple Farm in Williston

By Hannah Reid, VAAFM Governor Shumlin taps a maple tree at Sugartree Maple Farm in Williston,

ov . Peter Shumlin celebrated Hannah Reid VT with help from Williston Central Vermont’s 2016 maple sugar Elementary 3rd & 4th graders. Gseason on Monday, March 14th with a ceremonial tree tapping event at Sugartree Maple Farm in Williston . The Governor was joined the water out of the sap before it by Vermont Agriculture Secretary enters the evaporator, reverse osmosis Chuck Ross, Consumer Protection machines enable sugar makers to save Chief and state maple expert, Henry both valuable time and fuel . Marckres, Executive Director of the “According to a recent study, Vermont Sugar Makers Association Vermont’s maple industry (VSMA) Matthew Gordon, as contributed between $317 and well as 3rd and 4th graders from $330 million in total sales to the Williston Central Elementary school state economy in 2013, in addition who aided the governor in the tree- to supporting roughly 3,000 full- tapping process, and accompanied time jobs and over $140 million in him on an educational tour of the profits and wages ”. said Gov . Shumlin . Sugartree Maple Farm facility . encompasses 49 acres of prime sugar new reverse osmosis machine capable “Maple is Vermont’s signature Established in 2009 by Mark and maple trees, 4,200 taps, and a modern of processing 900 gallons of sap an brand, and the kind of technological Amy Yandow, Sugartree Maple Farm wood fired sugarhouse boasting a hour . Designed to evaporate 75% of continued on page 2

Inside This Issue Periodicals Postage The View from Market Report. . . . Page 11 Paid at 116 State Street. . . . . Page 2 Montpelier, VT Classifieds...... Page 12 Vermont Agency of and at Additional National Weights and Right-sizing Agriculture, Food & Markets Mailing Offices 116 State Street Measures Week. . . . . Page 3 Your Farm...... Page 12 Vermont Milk Cooler Montpelier, Vermont 05620-2901 Grant Program. . . . Page 4 The Business of Farming in Vermont...... Page 5 On-Farm Biodiesel Production...... Page 6 Milk Analysis Technology at St. Albans Coop . . . Page 7 Extension Ag Business Programs...... Page 8 Annual Dairy Conference...... Page 10 POSTMASTER: Send address change to: Agriview, 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 2 March 25, 2016

The View from 116 State Street

s I was presenting the Agency of Agricluture’s annual budget to the The Agency of Agriculture has a significant regulatory mission, as directed house and senate appropriations committees earlier this month, I was by the Vermont legislature and resulting statute . We work hard to ensure that Astruck, once again, by the breadth and depth of programs and services our regulatory practices are accompanied by wrap-around services including administered by this agency . From water quality initiatives, to consumer education, and financial and technical support, so that, together, we can protection, to implementing federal food safety laws, and from promoting strengthen and grow the economies, cultures, and communities of Vermont’s Vermont dairy in school lunch rooms, to farm viability across our working working landscape . I could not be more proud of our team of smart, dedicated landscape; the scope of work our small agency is responible for is truly agency staff who are as diverse as our mission . astounding . This perspective is validated by the range of content on display in this March edition of Agriview.

Sugaring Season cold nights over the next week or so, growth a testament to our sugar and Mackenzie and many other continued from page 1 which should result in good runs and makers, who not only help promote supportive family members and will hopefully carry us until April ”. and preserve Vermont’s heritage, friends,” said Mark Yandow . “We all innovations that we see right here at Despite this winter’s variable but also help to ensure our state’s take part in the sugaring process — Surgartree Maple Farm – combined weather conditions, Vermont Working Landscape endures for from cutting and stacking firewood, with the Vermont entrepreneurial continues to lead that nation in future generations of Vermonters to the final boiling of the sap . spirit – will ensure Vermont’s maple maple production . In 2015, Vermont to enjoy . We could not be more We are exceedingly proud of our industry remains the national leader produced 41% of the nation’s syrup, proud to lead the nation in syrup business, and honored to have the in production and quality ”. roughly 1 .4 million gallons, twice production!” opportunity to host the governor in In response to questions about the the amount produced by the next Visitors to the Sugartree Maple our sugarhouse ”. variable weather conditions this year, largest maple states, combined (New Farm during this year’s sugaring To learn more about Vermont’s Agency of Agriculture Consumer York and Maine each produced 17%, season will have the opportunity to maple industry, please review this Protection Chief and state maple respectively) . The value of Vermont’s watch and learn about the sugaring recently completed study conducted expert, Henry Marckres said, “It maple crop in 2014 was over $44 .5 process, and, most importantly, by UVM’s Center for Rural Studies has certainly been an interesting million . sample and buy the Yandow’s 100% for the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers weather year, but it’s hard to say for “Maple production in this state pure maple syrup, as well as maple Association: http://www .vermontbiz . certain how the weather will affect has increased by 111% since 1992 – lollipops, maple candy, maple cotton com/news/march/study-vermont- production over the course of the from 570,000 to 1,320,000 gallons candy, maple cream, and maple sugar . maple-industry-contributes-more- season . It takes 40 days to make a a year,” said Chuck Ross, Secretary “We share this wonderful 300-million-sales-states-economy . season; I think we’ve probably had of Agriculture . “This astounding is business with our children Matthew about 15 strong days so far . It looks like we’re supposed to get some Editor’s Note

think March gets a bad wrap . Sure, there (UPS 009-700) are the Ides, and the 60 degree temperature Agriview is Vermont’s Agricultural swings, and the dirt roads that turn into Publication of Record . I moonscapes with ruts deep enough to swallow It is published­ monthly by the Vermont Agency of a school bus, but then again, March in Vermont Agriculture Food & Markets,­ also means maple . Not only is running sap a 116 State St ., Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 harbinger of spring, but there is truly nothing Telephone: (802) 828-5667 quite like pure Vermont maple syrup fresh off Fax: (802) 828-2361 the arch . Seriously, nothing . But beyond the www.Agriculture.Vermont.gov product itself, that heavenly nectar without Chuck Ross Secretary of Agriculture which my pancakes are hardly worth looking Alison Kosakowski at, there is a wonderfully vibrant culture that Editor surrounds maple in Vermont – evidenced by the Advertising and subscriptions: multitude of sugarmakers who have emerged E-mail: agr-agriview@state .vt .us from their winter hideaways to gather with Publication is mailed out of USPS White River Junction, VT neighbors around steaming arches to participate Periodicals paid at USPS Montpelier, VT in Vermont’s favorite springtime pasttime . and White River Junction, VT Enjoy March! Yearly subscription: $20 The State of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity/ — Hannah Reid Affirmative Action Employer and Provider. (Interim Editor) March 25, 2016 3

Vermont Recognizes National Weights and Measures Week in March

By Marc Paquette, historical context, however, markets like alternative fuel the relationship between and energy sources such as arch 1-7, 2016 weights and measures and ethanol, biodiesel, bio buta- was National agriculture becomes clear . nol, natural gas, hydrogen, MWeights and Much of the Vermont’s early and electrical recharging for Measures Week, a time economy was based on the motor vehicles . set aside to recognize the agricultural products pro- Weights and Measures important role of weights duced on tens of thousands Week serves to remind us and measures inspectors of farms . Historically, com- all of the unseen, and often across the United States . modities produced in the rity to both producers and a redesigned program to test unrecognized, effort that Housed within the Vermont state like milk, meat, grains, consumers in the market- and license produce scales goes into ensuring that driv- Agency of Agriculture Food feed, corn, and maple were place . used by vendors at Vermont ers get what they pay for at and Market’s Consumer sold by weight or measure, Vermont’s Weights and Farmers’ Markets . Accurate the gas pump, that the price Protection Section, Vermont’s therefore inspection pro- Measures team is comprised scales will help ensure cus- of milk is scanned correctly Weights and Measures grams were placed in the of six field inspectors and a tomers get what they pay for, at the checkout counter, program strives to advance a Agency of Agriculture . Chief Weights and Measures AND ensure producers are and the sugar content of safe and secure food supply While the technologies Specialist/Metrologist who properly compensated for our world renowned maple within a marketplace that may have changed signifi- manages the metrology their products . Testing days syrups is accurate . These, provides fair and equal cantly since the early days laboratory . Each year the lab will be held across the state and many more consumer access to consumers and of farming in Vermont, the tests thousands of hydrom- this spring in order to make and producer protections are processors while enhancing critical role played by the eters utilized by the maple it easy and convenient for provided to the public with Vermont’s working landscape, weights and measures pro- industry, weights ranging in scale owners to have their accuracy and efficiency on a rural character and local gram in verifying weights size from 1,000 lbs . to 0 .001 scales tested and licensed daily basis by the Vermont economies . and quantities across many lb ., and numerous test mea- ahead of the market season . Agency of Ag’s Weights and Many consumers are sur- business sectors, has not . sures used in the inspection For more information about Measure Team . prised to learn that weights From gas stations to super- and calibration of thousands scale testing dates and loca- Thank You! and measures programs are market scanners, our inspec- of fuel pumps . tions, please visit call 802- often administered by agen- tors employ state of the art Each year the Vermont 828-2426 or visit: http:// For more information cies of agriculture nation- weighing and measuring program inspects over 6,000 agriculture .vermont .gov/ about the Agency of wide . When considered in equipment to provide secu- gas pumps, 425 fuel oil truck node/1240 . Agriculture’s Weights and meters, 225 propane truck Looking ahead, the Measures program, contact meters, thousands of scales weights and measures team Marc Paquette, Weights and packages . Inspectors will continue to work col- and Measures Specialist, conduct hundreds of price laboratively with legisla- Consumer Protection by email: verification inspections, test- tors and industry experts [email protected] ing the accuracy of laser to develop new inspection or by phone: 802-828-2426. scanning systems in retail processes, testing methods, Or visit our website: http:// outlets . and added training programs agriculture.vermont.gov/food_ This year, the weights and to address regulatory chal- safety_consumer_protection/ measures team is rolling out lenges surrounding emerging consumer_protection 4 March 25, 2016

The Vermont Milk Cooler Grant Program Promoting dairy in the classroom and the cafeteria

By Cecilia McCrary, VAAFM and a reduction in labor cost more work and kids were not Intern associated with maintain- going to drink it,” she said . ing a milk program . Before “Turns out we are experienc- t’s no secret that the bulk milk cooler was ing the opposite ”. Vermont is a dairy state . installed, the school was toss- To grantee schools, the I63% of all milk produced ing 51,000 milk cartons into grant means more than just in New England comes the landfill annually . Now, machinery . It means that from Vermont, and dairy the school provides tumblers their students are able to represents 70% of Vermont’s to students, and the waste enjoy a healthy, vitamin rich total agricultural sales . In of milk cartons has been drink option at lunchtime . fact, milk generates more drastically reduced . Using Healthier students lead to sales than any other Vermont tumblers also means a much happier students, and that agricultural product . Dairy easier clean-up for the caf- leads to better students is a big part of Vermont’s eteria staff . overall . In addition, the milk identity, and yet, you might The kids are also very coolers provide an opportu- not know it from the looks Saint Francis Xavier School Food Services Director Peggy Lewis happy with the new milk nity for Vermont students to of the dairy displays in our and Assistant Principal Eric Becker show off their new milk cooler. cooler . In fact, that the learn about the very industry schools . school recently had to put a that helps Vermont produce Many Vermont schools do locking system on the cooler some of the best milk, cheese not have appropriate stor- lected from farms and man- Halifax School, and Thetford to keep kids from drinking and ice cream in the world . age facilities to display and aged by the Vermont Dairy Elementary . milk outside of lunchtime . The next round of grant keep milk ice cold for their Promotion Council for the Putney Central School “Having to lock up milk so applications will be accepted students . New milk coolers purposes of promoting the received a Milk Cooler Grant kids won’t drink it was not in fall 2016 . Schools inter- can cost thousands of dol- Vermont dairy industry) . The last year (2015) . Putney’s something we predicted,” ested in participating in the lars, which may be out of Milk Cooler Grant Program, new bulk milk dispenser said Alice Laughlin, who Milk Cooler Grant Program, reach for many schools . That which is funded directly purchased with Milk Cooler is on the school board at should contact Ali Zipparo is where Vermont’s dairy by Vermont dairy farmers, Grant funds has led to an Putney Central School . “[The by phone: 802-505-1822, or farmers and the Agency of allows Vermont schools to increase in milk consump- staff was] pretty convinced by email: alexandra .zipparo@ Agriculture, Food & Markets apply for funding for the tion, a decrease in waste, it was going to cause them vermont .gov . has stepped in . In 2014, the purchase and installation of agency launched the Milk new milk coolers . In 2016, Cooler Grant Program using the grant program gifted New FSMA Online Decision Tree Tool funds made available through $12,000 to 12 schools . These the Vermont dairy check- schools include schools like Available to Farmers off funds ($0 .10 per one Putney Central School, Wardsboro Elementary, the hundred pounds of milk col- By Kristina Sweet, VAAFM grow, harvest, pack or hold under the Produce Safety fresh produce for human Rule, which subjects them AAFM has launched consumption and that to modified requirements a new online have annual produce sales including recordkeeping and Vdecision tree tool of greater than $25,000 . labeling . to help farmers determine The rule was finalized in For more information whether a farm is subject to November 2015 and became about FSMA and produce Food Safety Modernization effective on January 26, safety at the Vermont Act (FSMA) final Produce 2016 . VAAFM estimates that Agency of Agriculture, visit Safety Rules . The tool may at least 150 Vermont farms http://agriculture .vermont . be accessed at https://www . will be fully covered under gov/food_safety_consumer_ surveymonkey .com/r/vtfsma the rule and will need to protection/fsma and http:// or taken over the phone by meet all of the rule’s require- agriculture .vermont .gov/ calling (802) 522-7811 . ments . An additional 400 food_safety_consumer_pro- The FSMA Produce Safety farms are likely to be eligible tection/produce_safety Rule will affect farms that for a “qualified exemption” March 25, 2016 5

The Business of Farming in Vermont

s we head into a planning for the next 12 assistance are UVM licensed counselors trained new agricultural year months, not just the next Extension’s Farm Viability in agricultural medicine, Awith depressed milk three months, Parson Program http://blog .uvm . resource specialists and prices and unpredictable cautions . edu/farmvia/ and the VT Vocational Rehabilitation weather events affecting Housing Conservation workers . Stress, depression, Vermont’s farmers, it is more Theme #2: Develop a Board’s (VHCB) VT Farm insomnia, chronic health important than ever to get Management Team and Forest Viability Program issues, injury, family conflict, a handle on the business . It Tony Kitsos helps http://www .vhcb .org/ employee problems, legal or is safe to say that farmers farmers develop strategic Farm-Forest-Viability/ . Both financial issues are upsetting tend to enjoy operations management teams that programs have an application to farmers, and farmers more than strategic planning . meet a few times per year process, and both have who are distracted and “Farming offers fundamental working with your lender ”. around the farm’s kitchen abundant resources on their stressed are at high risk for satisfaction from producing Lenders have more table . Strategic planning websites . accidents . Talking to a Farm food, working outdoors, flexibility if you come in (deciding what are the First consultant about your being one’s own boss, and early . “Don’t wait until right things to do) for the Theme #3: Use Farm concerns is a smart business working intimately with you’re on COD and need farm is the key strength First as a Smart decision . It can increase nature,” according to Richard feed in three days,” says Bob of these teams . The teams Business Tool safety AND improve your Wiswall of Cate Farm in Parsons, PhD, Agricultural include involved agriculture Farmers call the Vermont financial bottom line . Farm Plainfield . However, the Economist at the University professionals, mentors and Farm First Program to talk First: 1-877-493-6216 any farm picture isn’t complete of Vermont . For chronic family members . Everyone through problems for which time, day or night . without sharpening the cash flow problems, lenders has input at the meetings, farmers are struggling to You are encouraged to pencil and crunching can help refinance or use and the process aids effective find solution . . It’s a great stay in touch with your numbers . other tools at their disposal . decision-making . Farmers are relief to have an objective lender, work on a business Unfortunately, according “Interest rates are still very welcome to call Tony at 802- professional to talk to at plan and talk with Farm First to Wiswall and others, many low”, he states, “so try to 524-6501 for information . times . Farm First is free, about concerns this year . farmers avoid the business lock in fixed rates now if you Two programs for farmers confidential and available Have a productive season! end of farming . Working have the option to refinance ”. serious about business with a 24/7 call line . The without a business plan “Before thinking about planning with technical program is staffed by results in farmers working deferring payments to harder than they need to, or suppliers, call your lender to quitting farming altogether work out a plan . It’s easier following unforeseen losses . for a lender to wait than Wiswall trains organic it is for a supplier . Lenders farmers to raise profits by don’t want to see their farms working smarter, not harder . fail… . working with the lender will relieve a lot of Theme 1: Work Closely stress” says Tony Kitsos, Farm With Your Lender Management Educator for Dale Thompson, Vermont UVM Extension . Farm Loan Specialist at According to Parsons, the USDA’s Farm Service Agency dairy sector just completed a recommends that anyone strong year, but the forecast who is having difficulty with is not rosy . The price of milk cash flow visit their lender is currently below the cost of early and often . “If you have production, and indications a relationship with a lender, are that it could stay that don’t give up on it,” he way for many farmers well advises . “The main thing is to into 2017 . With feed prices stay in compliance with the low at the moment, farms lender; don’t sell hard assets are getting by; however, cash and pay things off without will get tighter, requiring 6 March 25, 2016

New Resource for Farmers: A Legal and Regulatory Overview of On-Farm Biodiesel Production in Vermont Vermont Law School research commissioned by the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund will help reach biodiesel goals of Vermont’s Comprehensive Energy Plan

new report, On-Farm plays in the definition of economic and environmental Biodiesel Production ‘farm’ and ‘farming activities’ benefits for Vermont,” said A in Vermont: Legal for the purpose of states VLS Professor Kevin B . and Regulatory Overview, laws, such as Act 250 and the Jones, deputy director of the conducted by the Current Use Program ”. Institute for Energy and the Institute for Energy and IEE Global Energy Environment . the Environment (IEE) Fellow Carla Santos IEE researchers applied at Vermont Law School coordinated the legal review the legal review to three reviews all Vermont state with contributions from potential scenarios in the and federal regulations fellow IEE researchers report, concluding with a related to on-farm biodiesel Diana Chace, Christopher convenient and accessible production . Commissioned Cavaiola, Jeannie Oliver, list of “do’s and don’ts” for by the Vermont Bioenergy and Jeremy Walker . The farmers to use as a legal Initiative at the Vermont report is broken into five checklist as they move Sustainable Jobs Fund, chapters that review tax forward with producing the report aims to inform legislation, site regulations, biofuel in on-farm farmers about the potential State Line Farm in Shaftsbury, Vermont is an innovative occupational safety and operations . laws and regulations bioenergy farm and research facility and worked with Institute health, registration, and The complete On-Farm surrounding on-farm for Energy and the Environment at Vermont Law School environmental legislation . Biodiesel Production biodiesel production . researchers on the On-Farm Biodiesel Production in Vermont: “Our institute’s research in Vermont: Legal and “As statewide partners Legal and Regulatory Overview report. should help Vermont farmers Regulatory Overview report begin to find new ways understand the regulatory is available on the Vermont to achieve the goals of biodiesel production, such as to the federal Clean Air hurdles to producing Bioenergy Initiative website Vermont’s Comprehensive state air emission provisions Act (CAA) . In addition, it biodiesel on the farm along with a variety of Energy Plan, which identified that establish lower is critical to understand the and help them convert a additional biofuel relevant biodiesel as a fuel that thresholds when compared role biodiesel production locally grown resource into reports and resources . will help Vermont meet the 10-percent renewable transportation goal for 2025, the On-Farm Biodiesel Vermont Grass Farmers Association Production in Vermont Mini-grant Program report provides a timely Application Deadline: April 1, 2016 review of the regulations that pertain to home-grown biodiesel production,” states Annually, the VGFA dedicates money to support on-farm research led and designed by farmers . Ellen Kahler, executive Grants range from $500-$1,000 . Possible ideas include but are not limited to: director of the Vermont • Extension of the grazing season, Sustainable Jobs Fund . • Innovative grazing practices or infrastructure, According to the report’s findings, “while several • New forage varieties or cropping systems, of the federal regulations • Evaluation of new or competing products, etc . are only triggered by high For more information: levels of production, there are a number of state laws http://www.uvm.edu/~pasture/?Page=minigrants.html and regulations that may be triggered by small-scale March 25, 2016 7

Vermont Dairy Cooperative First to Adopt New Technology to Improve Value of Milk and Farm Management Practices

By Laura Hardie

he St . Albans Cooperative Creamery Tis the first dairy cooperative in the nation to provide new information to farmers about the fatty acids that make up the milk fat in their cow’s milk . Local researchers found a direct correlation between the fat content in milk and farm management practices — this information will allow farmers to improve the way they feed and manage their cows as well as earn Over 300 dairy farmers gathered for the St. Albans Annual lunch meeting on February 13th in St. Albans. Farmers heard from state a higher pay for their milk . leaders including Governor Shumlin, and learned about new technology pioneered at the co-op to benefit their farms. Recommendations from this research will support the economic viability of local the St . Albans Co-op . “We and protein content of the dairy farms and ensure that are excited to begin applying milk we drink, but instead consumers continue to have this new information to our can be used to make dairy For Immediate Release access to local, affordable farm,” said Howrigan . “My products such as ice cream, dairy products . family will use it to make yogurt and cheese ”. The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and “Thanks to the new milk sure our cow’s diet meets Not only will the research Markets have received an application for a Milk analysis technology, we have their nutritional needs, and it allow farmers to learn about Handlers license from the following entity: Coca-Cola developed recommendations will help us make decisions the best-management prac- Bottling Co . of Northern New England of Colchester, farmers can use to improve to ultimately produce higher tices to care for their ani- Vermont to transport and sell milk products within the their cow’s digestive health quality milk ”. mals, it also means that farm- State of Vermont . If anyone has germane information as and how their cows are cared Recommendations to ers can improve their bottom to why or why not this company should or should not for,” explained Tom Gates, farmers on how to use this line at a time when the low be licensed those comments are to be sent to: the Cooperative Relations technology were developed milk price is tightening farm The Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets Manager for St . Albans by a team of dairy scien- budgets . Dairy Section Office Cooperative Creamery . tists from the University of “Because farmers are paid 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 “These recommendations Vermont, Miner Institute, more for milk with higher will allow farmers to produce Delta Instruments, and fat and protein, they are All written comments must be received by milk with a higher content of Cornell University . The tech- constantly looking for ways April 15th, 2016 . protein and fat which they nology measures fatty acids to improve the amount of At that time the Agency will make a determination as earn a higher price for ”. in milk, which are the build- fat and protein in the milk to whether a hearing will be held . If we determine that a Dairy farmers learned ing blocks of milk fat . their cows produce,” Gates hearing is necessary and you wish to attend please write about the new technol- “Healthy, well-nourished said . “Higher fat and protein to the above address attention Dairy Section . ogy at the St . Albans Co-op cows naturally produce milk means healthy cows and Annual Meeting on Saturday, with a higher percentage of more valuable milk, a win February 13 at the St . Albans fat and protein,” said Melissa for the cows, the farmers, Town Educational Center . Woolpert, of the Miner and our local agricultural Rebecca Howrigan and her Institute . “The extra fat and economy ”. family’s farm is a member of protein won’t affect the fat 8 March 25, 2016

Extension Agricultural Business Programs: A to Z

By Mark Cannella Vermont Housing and program for the experienced within a flexible curriculum Conservation Board, since farm business manager . Ag to address priority issues n winter 2016 Vermont 2003 . Participating farmers Biz Pro is for farm managers facing the business through farm managers and forest work directly with a lead who wish to continue advanced financial analysis Iproducts business owners business educator for 4 to working with an individual and strategic planning can select from a variety 18 months to complete an adviser after completing a exercises . of business programs . The enterprise analysis project, grant funded Farm Viability Visit the Farm Viability University of Vermont Farm full business plan or farm business planning project . website to find program Viability program specializes transfer plan . Approximately Participants work directly registration information: in individualized educational half of the participants with a farm business adviser http://blog .uvm .edu/farmvia programs and business each year use the business coaching to address topics plans to apply for financing unique to each business and with agricultural lenders . each manager . Every year farm owners Budget Clinics are single that complete the program sessions that farm owners indicate they have more can reserve in advance . The confidence in the direction 1 – 2 hour session pairs they want to take their farm farmers with a business business . educator to update a key Last year, UVM Extension financial statement like a launched the Forest Business balance sheet or develop program that provides a budget for the coming one-on-one business farming season . Sessions are coaching to loggers, mills available at twelve Extension and small wood products locations statewide from late manufacturers . Similar to February through March farm business programs, 2016 . participants worked to Farm Viability Business improve accounting systems Planning is an ongoing or workplace communication program that accepts and complete cost analysis applications year-round . projects to identify the most UVM has been a service profitable aspects of their provider for the statewide business . Farm and Forest Viability Ag Biz Pro is our newest Program, funded by the individualized education March 25, 2016 9

Dairy Farmers Talk Sustainability and Innovation At Annual Conference

By Laura Hardie administration, 5,000 jobs have been added in value- undreds of dairy added agriculture . farmers from New His remarks were echoed HEngland and New by Ross, who said dairy York gathered at the 17th farmers bring $3 million per annual Vermont Dairy day into Vermont . Producers Conference in Dr . Ray Nebel, Vice Burlington on Feb . 23 to President of Technical hear from a panel of experts Programs at Select Sires, about emerging technology talked to farmers about and innovative strategies to emerging technologies . ensure dairy farms continue “We have a new health to be a vibrant part of the monitor that attaches local economy . to the cow’s ear, like an “It’s critical that our earring, that measures growing population Over 300 dairy farmers and industry professionals gathered at the 17th annual Vermont Dairy five parameters of health, continues to have access Producers Conference to learn about emerging technologies and innovative strategies to ensure dairy including their resting and to local, nutritious and farms continue to be a vibrant part of the local economy. eating patterns,” said Nebel . affordable dairy products,” A topic that every farm said Les Pike of Keewaydin in food system sustainability, only mean natural, or Vermont Gov . Peter faces is how to transition the Farm in Stowe . “To do this, and says that today’s modern organic, or pasture-fed . Shumlin and Secretary of farm to the next generation farmers continually look for dairy farms have reduced Sustainable means caring Agriculture Chuck Ross said motivational speaker, innovative ways to be more their carbon footprint by for our animals and land to thanked dairy farmers for Garrison Wynn . efficient and sustainable ”. two-thirds since the 1940s . make a nutritious product,” their contributions to the “To attract and keep Jude L . Capper specializes “Sustainability doesn’t Capper said . state . Shumlin said during his employees, you have help them understand how their day to day contributions fit into the success of the For Immediate Release For Immediate Release business and their future opportunities,” Wynn said . The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Organizers say there were Markets have received an application for a Milk Markets have received an application for a Milk over 300 attendees at the Handlers license from the following entity: Pumpkin Handlers license from the following entity: Norwich conference . Village Foods, LLC . of Burlington, Vermont to transport Farm Creamery, LLC . of Norwich, Vermont to process, cheese, butter and cultured products in the State of package and sell milk, cream, cultured products, butter, Vermont . If anyone has germane information as to cheese and pasteurized ice cream mix in the State of why or why not this company should or should not be Vermont . If anyone has germane information as to licensed those comments are to be sent to: why or why not this company should or should not be licensed those comments are to be sent to: The Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets Dairy Section Office The Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 Dairy Section Office 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 All written comments must be received by All written comments must be received by April 15th, 2016 . April 15th, 2016 . At that time the Agency will make a determination as At that time the Agency will make a determination as to whether a hearing will be held . If we determine that a to whether a hearing will be held . If we determine that a hearing is necessary and you wish to attend please write hearing is necessary and you wish to attend please write to the above address attention Dairy Section . to the above address attention Dairy Section . 10 March 25, 2016

VERMONT VEGETABLE AND BERRY NEWS

staff are returning veterans swamp . The trick is to know our low standards) and on at $6 .75 for a heaping half though we are fielding a which it is going to be ”. I time . We always have trouble pint . Also planted one house good number of applicants am laying money on a dry with the healing process, and of basil today, in containers, for a few positions . Not a year . I will plow a few acres it gets trickier later when with Albion and Seascape lot are looking for full time and think about uncovering we do the last grafts for the strawberries in 12” baskets work; how do people sur- garlic and berries in another fall houses . The bright spot hanging overhead, and run- vive without full time work? 10 days if the weather con- is that despite the weather ning night temps at 68F . Will Truck maintenance, last-min- tinues to be warm and we being a harbinger of bad have pansy baskets ready for ute greenhouse repairs and get through pruning the things to come, it is delight- sale this weekend, and cut building a new office are fill- blueberries . Maybe get some ful none-the-less to be out- daffodils ready in the field . Compiled by Vern Grubinger, ing out the days . Stay busy, peas and oats sowed down side working in . This is the Cut daffodils are a great long University of Vermont keep moving and have some in front of the fall veg crops . earliest I have ever had next term crop for us; big upfront Extension fun this year! The real business at hand winter’s wood supply cut cost but good return over (802) 257-7967 ext. 303, or is in the greenhouses with and in the garage . many years with low mainte- [email protected] (Newbury) Over-wintered grafting, seeding, potting nance . By planting along the www.uvm.edu/vtvegandberry spinach in our unheated plants and taking vegetative (Newburyport MA) Our outside edge of heated green- hoop house produced all cuttings . So far the over- gravel Merrimack soils are houses and in the field you winter and is starting to wintered ornamental stock dry with soil temps in the can harvest from late March Reports From re-grow . does not seem to have any upper forties . First peas went until mid-May . Sell well at The Field population booms of thrips, in on February 29, the earli- markets and CSA Members (Plainfield NH) Watching which usually start to show est we have ever planted, love to cut their own . the weather forecasts with a up in force this time of year . by a week . Overwintered Season is off to a won- (Westminster West) That fair amount of trepidation . I have some persistent fox- spinach, cress and bunch- derfully early start; just the the weather is different this Ground is drying out, the glove aphids, but ladybugs ing onions growing very fast opposite of last year . CSA year goes without saying! upper Connecticut River is and Aphidoletes seem to be under lightweight remay signups have been coming We are burning less than starting to drop, there is no keeping those in check . I am fabric . Planted first three in steadily with some new half the fuel we normally snow pack in the mountains told by one of my suppliers tomato houses this week names . would, which is a good thing and it’s not even St Patrick’s that green and brown lace- with large blooming trans- Winter FMs fairly slow . and I’m sure the savings will day . That is the trifecta for wings are excellent for aphid plants; cheap oil and warm The ‘Year Without a Winter’ . disappear into both wage the start of a dry season and control . I would be curious temps so we are starting increases which we have I am hoping that we get if others have had good luck these crops at 74F night (Little Compton RI) implemented and some adequate rainfall . Michael with them, because I have temps . Hope to have cherry Grafting going really well additional machinery . Not Smith said “we can grow in a not, to date . Tomato grafting tomatoes by early May, finally! Getting our first a windfall really, but who’s desert, and we can grow in a is going along ok (at least by when we can price them complaining? With the lack continued on page 13 of snow, I might be able to get some field work done early, spread lime etc . I hope For Immediate Release For Immediate Release to spread out tasks that nor- mally get jammed together The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and in the bubble of time called Markets have received an application for a Milk Markets have received an application for a Milk spring . Garlic is up and Handlers license from the following entity: Monarch Handlers license from the following entity: David R . when the rains stop we will & the Milkweed Restaurant at 111 St . Paul Street in Butterfield of Irasburg, Vermont to process, package, remove the heavy duty row Burlington, Vermont to process, package, transport and transport and sell cultured products and cheese in the cover from that acre . Early sell ice cream and butter in the State of Vermont . If State of Vermont . If anyone has germane information as herb and veggie crops in the anyone has germane information as to why or why not to why or why not this company should or should not greenhouse look nice, and this company should or should not be licensed those be licensed those comments are to be sent to: releasing beneficials really comments are to be sent to: kept the bad bug situation The Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets under control . Drenching The Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets Dairy Section Office and spraying plants with pro- Dairy Section Office 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 tective bacteria also helped 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 All written comments must be received by reduce, even eliminate, All written comments must be received by April 15th, 2016 . many fungal diseases so our April 15th, 2016 . At that time the Agency will make a determination as crops look really handsome . At that time the Agency will make a determination as to whether a hearing will be held . If we determine that a Early bookings for starts are to whether a hearing will be held . If we determine that a hearing is necessary and you wish to attend please write well above last year at this hearing is necessary and you wish to attend please write to the above address attention Dairy Section . point so it looks like another to the above address attention Dairy Section . banner year . Most of our March 25, 2016 11

MARKET REPORT

Wholesale Prices Vermont Agency of Agriculture - USDA Market News January 2016t Addison County Commission Sales — East Middlebury, VT Wholesale prices paid per Livestock Auction Report for February 2016 dozen for Vermont Grade A Cattle Calves Price and grade information is reported by the brown eggs delivered to retail This Week: 87 172 Vermont Agency of Agriculture-USDA Market News stores. Last Week: - - Service. While market reports reflect the majority of livestock sold at each sale, there are instances where Vermont Egg Prices: Compared to last sale, slaughter cows sold $2 .00 - $4 .00 higher with good demand . animals do not fit reporting categories and are not Slaughter cattle supply included 85 cows and 2 bulls . All prices quoted per cwt . Jumbo...... $3 .00 included in this report. X-Large...... $2 .75 Slaughter Cows: Source: Large...... $2 .50 % Lean Avg. Dressing High Dressing Low Dressing Very Low VT Agency of Ag-USDA Medium ...... $2 .25 Premium White 65-75 83 .50-85 .50 91 .50 — — New Holland-Lancaster County, PA Breakers 75-80 79 .00-82 .00 87 .00 74 .50 — Market is steady Boners 80-85 75 .00-80 .00 79 .00-82 .00 — — Darryl Kuehne and supply is good. Lean 85-90 675 .00-81 .50 81 .00-82 .00 68 .50-74 .50 55 .00-69 50. Market Reporter Cell: 802-793-5348 Slaughter Bulls: 635-925 lbs: 87 .00 – 92 .50 You can find more reports Calves: When compared to last sale Holstein bull calves sold steady with good demand . Levi Geyer, OIC online at All prices per cwt . http://www.ams.usda.gov/ Cell 717-406-7350 / Office 717-354-2391 marketnews.htm Holstein Bull Calves: http://www .ams .usda .gov/mnreports/MP_LS141 .txt This is the web source for Number 1: 100-120lbs 200 .00-220 .00; 90-100 lbs 180 .00-210 .00; 80-90 lb 160 .00- USDA Market News 180 .00; 70-80lbs 150 .00-155 .00 . For all USDA Livestock and Grain market reports: Number 2: 100-120lbs 180 .00; 90-100 lbs 150 .00-177 .50; 80-90 lbs 127 .50-150 .00; http://www .ams .usda .gov/LSMNpubs/index .htm 70-80lbs 102 .50-125 .00 . Number 3: 140 .00-150 .00; 90-100lbs 120 .00-160 .00; 80-90lbs 100 .00-140 .00;70- 80lbs not tested . Utility: 100-120lbs 61 .00-102 .50;90-100lbs 55 .00-112 .50; 80-90lbs 70 .00-102 .50;70- 80 lbs 50 .00-80 .00 . Holstein Heifer Calves: 75-82lbs 125 .00-142 .50

CLASSIFIEDS

Advertising in Agriview Agriview Subscribers can Now Submit Classifieds Online Agriview subscribers now have the ability to submit their classified ads online . Classified Ads: Free to subscribers only. Limited to two Subscribers can log on to http://agriculture .vermont .gov/news_media/agriview and ads per issue, ads will run for two issues . Must include subscriber number with ad request (number appears at submit their ad using the online form . the top of the mailing label) Classified ads are free to all subscribers — limit two ads per issue . Ads must be 40 words or less . You must include your subscriber number when submitting your ad . Deadline For Ads: 10 days prior to the publication date . Please take advantage of this service, which will help streamline the classifieds process . Display Ads: Information available upon request For those who are unable to access the Internet, we will still accept classifieds by mail . Classified advertisements must be sent: If you have questions about classified ads, please contact Faith Raymond at 802-828- • By mail: (see address on page 2) 1619 or Faith .Raymond@state .vt .us . • By e-mail: (to Agr-agriview@state .vt .us) • Online at: http://www .vermontagriculture .com/ Cattle bag and handles $2000 put- needs a Perennials Manager! Agriview/agriviewclassified .html Nice Hereford bull, coming 4, ney vt 802 387 4412 (4/16) Come grow with us, and • We do not accept ads over the phone. approximately 2000 lbs . very manage perennial produc- friendly, well-mannered, and 3 4 year old red and white tion, a 2-3 person team, and Holstein oxen broke to pull Only items of an agricultural nature will be listed . The only real gentle . Loves a back scratch, sales . Great benefits including estate which will be listed are tracts of Vermont land two to five fence trained, can be around but need some work 1 full paid vacation . See our web- acres or more which are being used or can be used for agricultural any livestock, offspring can be team then 1 extra who lost site for a full job description purposes . All Feed, Hay and Forage ads must have county, town, seen . $2,200 . 802-748-0558 his partner must stay together and to apply at http://www . and phone number, and must be renewed each month. (3/16) not 4 beef very friendly very horsfordnursery .com/jobs .php The Secretary reserves the right to make a final decision on gentle good home a must (4/16) the eligibility of items listed . The editor reserves the right to West Swanton, VT - Hereford just don’t have time to work censor and edit ads . The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food Cows, with calves at side, them call and make an offer Horsford Gardens & Nursery and Markets assumes no responsibility for transactions resulting $1,500 .00 . Please call Jon at Lyndonville Vermont 1 is seeking candidates for through advertising in Agriview. Advertisers are cautioned that it 802-868-7097 (evening) or 802 626 3061 ask for annie the 2016 season! Openings is against the law to misrepresent any product or service offered 802-868-3327 (day) . (4/16) (4/16) include:-Perennials Manager in a public notice or an advertisement carried in any publication -Garden Center Assistant delivered by the U.S. Mail. Guernsey cow 4th calf easy Employment Manager -Field Crew Ads must be limited to 40 words or less. hand or machine milker good Horsford Gardens & Nursery Member -Horticultural 12 March 25, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS Professional -Wholesale- plow cultivator, tine har- $5,500, JD336 Square Baler Shrub Grower-Perennial rows $3250 . Ford 4 row corn - $3,500, JD455 Hydro-Push Grower Assistant Complete planter $975 . IH Chiesel Manure Spreader - $5,500, job descriptions are online at plow, 9 shanks $3250 . Ford 200Gal Walsh Sprayer - www .horsfordnursery .com . 3 bottom plows $975 . JD 4 $1,000, Int 56. SilageBlower (4/16) bottom plows $1250 . Panels - $500, Gehl970 Forage 12’ for round pen $95 each . Wagon-no roof-$3,500, 18’ Seeking a responsible grounds- 802-282-2060 (4/16) Brillion Springtooth-$3,500, keeper/farmhand in Cabot to (802) 558-8370 (4/16) rent our remodeled bungalow New Holland 893 chopper and work 20-30 hours per both hay and two row corn Cedar fence posts for sale . 6’ week . Animal chores, haying, heads . International NO 56 long by 3-5” tops, unsharp- running tractor, basic machine silo blower short hopper with ened . $1 .50 each, 5% bonus maintenance, chainsaw work, auger feed . 802-3722-4513 for orders over 200, 10% for 2nd 55 3rd 65 . Dairy quality twice, bridles used, paid gardening, pruning and spray- (4/16) orders over 400 . Prefer to can load 802-472-5750 cow- $1500 asking $1000 . Used ing trees, weed wacking, fence load with forks . Vince Foy, Case 450C new undercar- spigsand more@gmail .com electric wire rolled up in maintenance . Email Israel at Danville, 802-748-8461 . riage . Ford 4630 low hours (4/16) arms lengths, make an offer . ihelfand1@gmail .com (4/16) (4/16) good condition with loader Used 4x5 fiber glass posts .50 4000 ton corn silage, 1000 ton + 1 .00 802-295-2910 (3/16) Equipment 4-wheel drive . Long 2460 General haylage 1st cut, 500 ton hay- 2002 New Holland Tractor good rubber 4-wheel drive . Super cute male & female lage 2nd cut 802-394-2976 Travis sled with 12 ft box body TV140 Bi-Directional, 2300 Ford 4000 2-wheel drive . Border Collies for sale! 10 (4/16) and seat, foot rest . Misc hrs ., PTO bucket and clam . Ford 555B 4-wheel drive TLB weeks old . $600 .00 each . Call horse equipment . Rubber $42,500 00. . Please call 802- cab ready for work . Retired us @ 802-387-4473 or email: 400 grass baleage, 4x4, second tired feed cart . 802-885-4920 525-1272 . Like new!! (3/16) do not need anymore . 802- info@vermontshepherd .com cut - $45/each . 2000 1st cut (4/16) 485-7757 (4/16) (3/16) square bales $4/bale (802) ANDO 5 ½ rock root grapple 558-8370 (4/16) Sheep DR generator model GEN- skid steer mt $3500 trailing Trucking cattle, sheep, goats, to 1 year old Tunis Lambs Ewes 01826 $450 802-728-6077 Big square 1st cut $50 . Big log arch $500, cub cadet 104 C .V .L .M . every Thursday, top $200 each 802-728-6077 (4/16) square 1st cut wrapped $45 . mower deck hy lift $450, prices . 802-282-2060 (4/16) (4/16) Honda 4 trax $1500, crafts- Big square 2nd and 3rd cut Kubota 2002 L2600 DT Glass canning jars with bail top man 30” snow blower $350, wrapped $50 . Delivery avail- New lamb emasculator, $15 . 4-wheel drive loader, back lids . Sizes available, pints, military 4 cyl generator able . 802-236-7741 csfarm1@ 12 .4x24 tractor tire, good blade, low hours, service man- quarts, and 2 quart jars . All in jeep engine powered $400 . gmail .com (4/16) tread, $75 . 65# DeLaval ual and parts catalog $13,500 . excellent condition also are Coleman power mate 4000 milking machine pail (only), 802-446-2870 (4/16) jar rubbers available . Good HAY for sale, round bales, big watt 120-240 volt new condi- $125 . Vacuum dump- for canning and/or crafts . squares, organic hay available, tion $350, MF 35 gas $250, Pronovost Puma 64 snowblower ing station, will hold about 802-438-5017 . (4/16) also straw . Tractor trailer loads MF 50 gas $2000, MF TO35, 75’ of hose, $75 . Bedding 3 pt hitch, extra chain and only . Call Richard for more die $3500, MFIND 20 W chopper with new motor spare shear pins $2200 . York Potatoes for sale, 4 kinds 40. per info at 802-323-3275 (4/16) loader $4000, case 3 PTH 2 rake model MR3 6Ft with pound . Call 802-767-4247 to be installed, $100 . BTM plow $250, MF 3 PTH guide wheels 3 pt hitch . 802- (4/16) 1000-2000 tons of 1/3 corn Williamstown 802-433-5870 . 2 BTM Plow $250 . 603-313- 446-2870 (4/16) silage, 1/3 2nd cut and 1/3 (4/16) 3039 (3/16) Hay, Feed & Forage 3rd cut . Please call 802-533- CONDE Vacuum Pump, dry Good quality first and second 2984 . (4/16) Sugaring Equipment Haying equipment – 5 wheel tank with gauge . Works well, cut hay large and small bales 6x16 used evaporator . 10’ King rake $250: NH 275 small great for small dairy or sugar- and organic . Straw, large or Certified organic square baled drop flue pan 2002 . Soldered square baler $750: NH 276 ing $350 . Underhill, 802-899- small square bales whole or hay, never rained on . 802- pans . Front pan Leader baler-kicker available $1500 . 1363 (4/16) pressed bales at farm we load 433-5837 . (4/16) 1994 . Draw off both sides . NH Baler parts: Massey 205 or direct delivery by trailer 4 speed blower . 24”stack . 2 Wheels for a Pin Wheel Orleans County manure spreader $750: IH load . 802-849-6266 (1/17) Base is stainless . Preheater . 300 – parts tractor - $600 . Rake $50 .00 . 2 Full rolls of Conventional haylage . 1st, 2nd, $5000 will separate . Call 802-878-4025 (3/16) 4 point barbwire and 2 half Butterworks Farm Organic and 3rd cut and organic Kent Gilman 802-384-0433 rolls $150 .00 603-543-3616 red clover mixture wrapped haylage1st cut all in Ag bags . email Hkpalmyra@gmail .com Case 450c new undercar- (4/16) haylage June cut $45/bale Organic and conventional (3/16) riage . Ford 4630 low hours call or email Collin at 802- - Dry round and wrapped MF 165- Diesel- w/ldr- Runs good condition with loader 323-9304, cmahoney@butter- round bales . 1st and 2nd cut . 10” Maple Syrup Press for sale . good!--$3800 . Hesston (NI) 4-wheel drive . Long 2460 worksfarm com. (3/16) Call 802-274-2832 or 802- $1,000 . [Hartland] Call 802- S260 man sprdr- 250 bu- good rubber 4 wheel drive . 988-2959 (3/16) 436-3127 . (4/16) Ford 4000 2 wheel drive, Exc . .$5800 . Gehl 250 man 2nd cut square bales $5 .50, Ford 555B 4 wheel drive TLB sprdr- words good . .$1850 . 1st cut wrapped 5x4 round Organic first, second and third Swine cab ready for work . Retired Knight #250 man sprdr- bales $40 . Must pick up . cut grass silage for sale . 6 month and growing fast . $125 do not need anymore . 802- fair--$1250 . Oliver 5 btm- Cloudland Farm, Pomfret, VT Trucking is available . Call each . 802-276-3477 (4/16) 485-7757 (3/16) Auto reset plows--$2800 . 802-457-1520 (3/16) Tom at 802-744-2444 or Kverkland 2 Btm Plow- 802-274-4934 or Shaye at Wanted 3 PTH log grapple . Tail wheel 1 5hp motor, 1 9 ½ motor, com- New . .$1800 . Several Harrows 50 4x4 wrapped round bales 802-744-6553 or 802-274- rim for JD 55H trailing plow . pletely rebuilt . 1533 mosey & Plows-3btm plows/ 8-10’ $45 each . Some early June 4939 . (4/16) Ferguson tractor 4 wheel Disk har/ 16’-3ph Spr tooth cut some 2nd cutting certi- JD 3PTH plows rock bucket drive with blower for snow . har--$850 . Each 802-376- fied organic . 802-254-6982 Horse Equipment for JD H240 Global attach- 802-624-0143 (3/16) 5262 www .youngsmilkyway- (3/16) Travis sled – holds 14 average ment . 603-313-3039 (3/16) size adults, good shape been farm .com (4/16) Round bales large well packed . Massey-Harris Pony 1949 with under cover, $800 . Set of Have quality testing 1st 45 JD3950 Corn Chopper - new D ring harnesses used March 25, 2016 13

Vermont Weekly Farmers Market Report For week ending February 29, 2016

Produce Meats/Proteins

Commodity Not Certified Organic Certified Organic Low High Average Low High Average Low High Average Lamb Chops $16 .50 $18 .00 $17 .25 Apples $1 .50 $3 $2.00 .50 $- $- $- Rack of Lamb $16 .50 $18 .00 $17 .25 Beets $2 .00 $2 .50 $2 .25$3 .00 $3 $3.00 .00 Leg of Lamb $12 .00 $14 .00 $13 .00 Broccoli- Frozen $- $- $- $7 .50 $7 .50 $7 .50 Ground Lamb $11 .00 $11 .00 $11 .00 Brussel Sprouts $- $- $- $8 .00 $8 .00 $8 .00 Cabbage $1 .25 $3 .00 $1 .77$2 .00 $2 $2.00 .00 Ground Beef $6 .00 $10 .00 $8 .26 Carrots $1 .50 $2 .50 $2 .05$2 .50 $2 $2.50 .50 Ribeye $19 .00 $23 $21.50 .25 Celeriac $2 .50 $3 $3.65 .05 $- $- $- Sirloin $12 .00 $17 $15.25 .08 Garlic $ 10 .00 $ 12 .00 $ 10 .67 $10 .00 $10 .00 $10 .00 Round Roast $10 .25 $12 .00 $11 .08 Green Beans- Frozen $- $- $- $7 .50 $7 .50 $7 .50 Chuck Roast $6 .45 $12 .00 $9 .48 Kale $2 .50 $4 .00 $3 .13$3 .00 $3 $3.00 .00 Strip Steak $20 .00 $22 .00 $21 .00 Leeks $3 .00 $4 $3.00 .55 $- $- $- Skirt Steak $16 .00 $16 .00 $16 .00 Lettuce $- $- $- $3 .00 $3 $3.00 .00 Tenderloins $20 .25 $29 $24.50 .58 Onions $1 .65 $2 .00 $1 .91$2 .50 $2 $2.50 .50 Eggs (dozen) $4 .50 $5 .00 $4 .88 Parsnips $3 .00 $3 .00 $3 .00$3 .00 $3 $3.00 .00 Whole Chickens $4 .15 $5 .00 $4 .72 Peppers $- $- $- $- $- $- Ground Pork $7 .95 $8 .00 $7 .99 Potatoes $1 .75 $2 .00 $1 .95$2 .50 $2 $2.50 .50 Rutabaga $1 .25 $1 $1.25 .25 $- $- $- Pork Chops $8 .00 $13 .00 $10 .45 Shallots $5 .00 $5 .00 $5 .00$5 .00 $5 $5.00 .00 Pork Loin $10 .00 $12 .00 $11 .00 Spinach $- $- $- $10 .00 $10 $10.00 .00 Pork Tenderloin $10 .00 $14 .00 $12 .50 Sweet Potato $2 .75 $4 .00 $3 .38 $- $- $- Shoulder Roast $7 .00 $11 .00 $8 .82 Turnip $1 .00 $2 .15 $1 .58$2 .50 $2 $2.50 .50 Ham $8 .80 $12 $1000. .40 Winter Squash $1 .25 $2 .00 $1 .63$1 .50 $1 $1.50 .50 Baby Back Ribs $7 .00 $10 .50 $9 .17

Market Comments Source: VT Agency of Ag - USDA New Holland-Lancaster County, PA Seasonality: Weather Conditions: Attendance: Hailee May, Market Reporter Fewer choices than summer The warmer than normal Attendance has been slightly P. 802-828-5445 market . Some crops frozen temperatures and lack of snow higher for markets this time of E. [email protected] and brought to the market has meant mucher larger year . make them available crowds than normal at our Levi Geyer, OIC Vendor Comments: Cell: 717-406-7350 much longer than normal winter markets . N/A Office: 717-354-2391 seasonality .

Vegetable & Berry News the plastic ground cover . I days ago and hoping this kale are doing fine but not to greens this winter despite up continued from page 10 mentioned this to my over rain is enough moisture to harvest yet . Experience some and down temperatures and wintering guru Brian O’Hara get them off to a good start . tip burn on spinach, not sure some losses of lettuce due recovery chamber properly and he suggested we had too Just spent a weekend with I should use calcium fertil- to the extreme temperature humidified with two micro- much coverage over our low Hugh Lovell and now am izer, keep GH colder or have changes . Two weeks ago we mist humidifiers made tunnels . convinced it is better to only better irrigation practices . harvested 262 lb of greens a huge difference . Also, Or rather, we should have add compost as a top dress Probably all of these . for our Saturday markets keeping the chamber at a taken off the row cover and activity and not to rototill Always looking to get the from our 3 high tunnels modest 72-78 degrees keeps clear plastic during an occa- it into the beds . We are also maximum crop in my high (34x144) with a value over the plants happy and hungry sional high 20s night to allow buying a small power har- value GH per square meter, $2000! The harvest included to grow together . acclamation to winter weath- row for our BCS to do more trying seeding arugula and salad mix (2 types), spinach, Biggest problem is keeping er . By giving constant full soil prep in our greenhouses beets together on different Asian greens, kale, Swiss the chamber cool during coverage, we got them too and elsewhere and try to not rows, trying to keep a nurs- chard, and arugula . Parsley hot sunny days . We had soft . His method requires a mess up the delicate balance ery row to avoid transplant- has also been reliable every a gorgeous crop of over- lot more daily management . of the soil food web . ing shock on certain crops . week . We started a new sys- wintered English broccoli Either that or we need to Maybe try to fit microgreens tem this winter of replanting that got pasted by the sudden buy a heavy perennial cloth (l’Ange Gardien, Quebec) between two crops, as one open areas in our tunnels as drop down to 4 degrees and just have it ‘at the ready’ Harvesting overwintered has gone to seed and too we pull out bolting or older during the Valentine’s Day on extremely cold nights . spinach and lettuce . Mostly early for the other . greens that is working great: freeze massacre . It even Will make a decision before alone on the market with Starting in January in the burned our overwintering next winter . Got a chance to fresh greens . Arugula, rad- (Argyle NY) Pleasant greenhouse on our radiant- onions sets right down to plant peas and carrots two ishes, beets, other greens and Valley Farm . Great yields of continued on page 14 14 March 25, 2016

Vegetable & Berry News before accreditation is grant- families can use to effective- in their rich antioxidant pro- of these fruits – elderberry . A continued from page 13 ed and your CAPS “eBadge” ly transfer the farm from one files and other benefits . That preliminary enterprise analy- and paper certificate are generation to the next . The trend led UVM Extension’s sis is now available at http:// heated benches, we seeded awarded . The accreditation webinar is free of charge and Center for Sustainable www .uvm .edu/sustain- successive weeks of lettuce fee for 2016 is $100, though open to the public; register Agriculture to secure a ableagriculture/resources/ mix greens (lettuce, mus- you can also use CAPS just early at: https://attendee . Working Lands Enterprise EldersEnterpriseAnalysis tards, Asians) and arugula in to develop a food safety gotowebinar .com/regis- Board grant to explore the RWilson .pdf the strip trays and as soon as plan, without getting accred- ter/7795227751500403460 commercial potential of one The production guide and they are rooted well (about ited, for free if you wish . To three weeks), we plant the become accredited by the Gaps Certification whole strips into the open end of 2016 you must final- Workshop April 5, areas and even in between ize your produce safety plan Barre, Vermont Vermont Agency of the Salanova lettuce where by April 1 . Location: UVM Extension Agriculture, Food there is a 4” space . Now CAPS is not a regulatory Office, 327 US Route 302, ready to harvest this week . program nor is it a guarantee Barre. 8:30 am– 4:00 pm & Markets Farm We have also been doing of food safety . direct seedings for several CAPS is not a substitute This workshop will help Agronomic Practices weeks which are growing for complying with food farmers understand and well . Markets have been safety laws, though it can be prepare for GAPs certifica- (FAP) Program Update strong, seeds are doing well a part of that compliance . tion . It is being co-taught in our greenhouse with our CAPS is simply a system for by UVM Extension Produce Winter Cover Cropping Update newer soil mix (Cornell type the VVBGA to establish its Safety Coordinator Ginger For the past few years, the Vermont Agency of mix with no compost) and own food safety best prac- Nickerson and Gretchen Agriculture, Food & Markets has encouraged farms to the labor crew is coming tices and recognize member Wall of Cornell Extension apply for financial assistance for winter cover cropping together for the new sea- farms that apply them . To and the Produce Safety with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service son . Lots of early birds like get started go to http:// Alliance Coordinator . (NRCS) . robins, redwing blackbirds, capsvt .org/ then create an Farmers will leave the work- To be considered for FAP Program funding for winter turkey vultures and even account and start drafting shop with a solid under- cover cropping, farms must apply for federal assistance a bunch of turkeys walked your produce safety plan . If standing of the science, risks with NRCS by April 15, 2016 . across our field yesterday! you currently have a pro- and principles behind Good Farms that fail to apply, or miss the NRCS applica- Irrigation and peas soon? duce safety plan, you can Agricultural Practices, a tion deadline mentioned above will not be eligible for cut-and-paste portions of it draft of a food safety plan in funding through the FAP program for 2016 fall cover Community into your on-line farm folder, the GAPs Audit format, an cropping . Farms that apply by the application deadline Accreditation For which is shareable, revisable, understanding of what hap- and are either deemed ineligible for funding from NRCS and renewable . For more pens at a GAPs Audit, and or do not receive a funded contract from NRCS may Produce Safety Is many resources . Registration apply for funding through the FAP program for winter Launched! information contact hans . estrin@uvm edu. or 802-380- fee: $50 . Space is limited . cover cropping by July 1, 2016 . CAPS is a voluntary There are also two pieces It is important to note that funding is not guaranteed program for members of 2109 (phone or text .) If you are not yet a mem- of homework to do to help and that the seeding date for all winter cover cropping the Vermont Vegetable and you get the most out of the remains October 1st . Berry Growers Association . ber of the VVBGA here is the link to join the associa- workshop . For more information on the FAP Program, please CAPS helps growers to plan Register here: https:// check out our website at http://agriculture .vermont . and then document the tion . The fee is $45 per farm for 2016, go to http://vvb- www .regonline .com/ gov/water-quality/farmer-assistance/fap or contact Lisa use of practices that reduce Register/Checkin . Gilman at (802) 828-5050 . food safety risks . The CAPS ga2016memberships .event- brite .com aspx?EventID=1804822 or advisory board of farmers contact Ginger Nickerson at and service providers has Farm Transfer 802-505-8189 or gnickers@ identified 18 practices that uvm . Winter Manure Spreading Ban are required for accredita- Webinar tion . CAPS uses an on-line Transferring the Farm: to End April 1, 2016 Tools You Can Use. Is Elderberry platform to help you write a Cultivation Right plan for these practices and March 23, 2016, For more information, contact subsequently to upload evi- 12 noon to 1 pm. For Your Farm? Growing numbers of Wendy Houston-Anderson at dence that you implemented As the second of a two- Vermont farmers and home- [email protected] them . The evidence is docu- part webinar series, Bob steaders are considering ments and pictures that are Parsons, agricultural econo- 802-828-3475 diversifying into “superfruits” in your on-line farm folder, mist at the University of or visit like Elderberry, Aronia and which is then reviewed for Vermont, will describe legal Haskap because of interest www.agriculture.vermont.gov/water-quality completeness by your peers and business tools that farm March 25, 2016 15

final market and enterprise Lamb Prices analyses will be available this fall . If you’re interested New Holland Sales Stables - New Holland, PA in joining the Elderberry Sheep and Goat Weighted Average for Monday, February 15, 2016 Listserv with others who are learning about and trying Sheep/Lamb Receipts: 1082 . Last Monday: 2329, Year Ago: 1457 Slaughter Ewes: this crop, send an email to Goat Receipts: 1073 . Last Monday: 1196 . Year Ago: 848 Good 2-3 80-120 lbs 117 .00-145 .00; 120-160 lbs 82 .00- 122 .00, Cheryl .Herrick@uvm .edu Hair sheep 92 .00-112 .00; 160-200 lbs 70 .00-112 .00, hair sheep Report format change: Traditional markets refer to lambs that 80 00-110. .00; 200-300 lbs 72 .00-90 .00 .Utility 1-3 80-120 lbs are subjected to USDA carcass grading, and marketed through 92 00,. hair Sheep 112 .00-112 .00; 120-160 lbs 65 .00-107 .00, Fertilizer From mainstream outlets. Non-Traditional markets refer to lambs destined Hair sheep 80 .00 . Urine – Your Input for slaughter outside of what would be termed as traditional markets. Needed On Research Slaughter Bucks: Direction Slaughter Sheep: Compared to last week, Slaughter lambs 160-200 lbs 87 .00-107 .00; 200-300 lbs 62 .00-105 .00 . sold mostly steady to 20 .00 higher on poorer quality offerings . The Rich Earth Institute Slaughter ewes sold mostly steady to 10 00. higher . Bucks sold Slaughter Goats: Compared to last week, slaughter kids sold is a Brattleboro-based steady on a very light test . Snowy weather kept supply light mostly steady to 10 .00 lower . Slaughter nannies sold mostly research group that provides and demand moderate to good . There were more ewes on offer steady . Slaughter bucks sold 10 .00-20 .00 lower with the farmers with sustainable, than typical . Supply consisted of 75 percent slaughter lambs, 24 exception of Number 1 bucks weighing over 150 lbs that sold low-cost, locally-sourced percent slaughter ewes, and 1 percent slaughter bucks . All sheep mostly steady to firm . Wethers sold sharply lower on a light test fertilizer made from and lambs are sold by the hundredweight, on actual weights . compared to a very light test the previous week . Demand was moderate for all classes . A lighter supply consisted of 57 percent sanitized human urine . Slaughter Lambs: Slaughter Kids, 23 percent Slaughter Nannies, and 20 percent Keeping urine out of Wooled & Shorn Choice and Prime 2-3 70-80 lbs 235 .00- bucks/billies and wethers . All goats are sold by the head on the wastewater stream and 265 .00; 90-110 lbs 217 .00-218 00,. Hair sheep 200 .00-230 .00; estimated weights . recycling it to farms reduces 110-130 lbs 200 .00; 130-150 lbs 180 .00-197 .00; 150-200 lbs nutrient pollution in rivers, 137 .00-170 .00 . Slaughter Kids: lakes, and groundwater while Selection 1: 50-60 lbs 195 .00-225 .00; 60-80 lbs 225 .00- 235 .00, Fancy 265 .00, wethers 260 .00-275 .00; 80-100 lbs 230 .00- also reducing the energy and Wooled & Shorn Choice 2-3 50-60 lbs 230 00-270. 00,. Hair sheep 225 .00-265 .00; 60-70 lbs 230 00-250. 00,. Hair sheep 280 .00, wethers 270 .00-290 .00 . chemical-intensive cost of 225 .00; 70-80 lbs 220 .00-225 .00, Hair sheep 230 .00-235 .00; Selection 2: 20-30 lbs 85 .00-125 .00; 30-40 lbs 115 .00-145 .00; waste-water treatment . 80-90 lbs . Hair sheep 205 .00-227 .00; 90-110 lbs 185 .00-217 .00, 40-50 lbs 145 .00-165 .00; 50-60 lbs 160 .00-190 .00; 60-80 lbs For the last four years, Hair sheep 180 00-197. .00; 110-130 lbs 170 00-197. 00,. Hair 180 .00-210 .00, wethers 200 .00-255 .00 . we have been collecting sheep 170 .00- 195 00;. 130-150 lbs 150 .00-167 .00; 150-200 lbs Selection 3: 20-30 lbs 70 .00-90 .00; 30-40 lbs 105 .00-132 .00; and pasteurizing urine 120 .00-157 .00 . 40-60 lbs 120 .00-145 .00, Gaunt 80 .00-120 .00; 60-80 lbs 150 .00-175 .00, Gaunt 110 .00-130 .00 . that we then use for field Wooled & Shorn Good 1-2 50-60 lbs 210 .00-220 .00; 60-70 trials growing hay and Slaughter Nannies/Does: lbs Hair sheep 200 .00-210 .00; 90-110 lbs 160 .00-165 .00, Hair vegetables . Your responses Selection 1: 80-130 lbs 210 .00-245 .00; 130-180lbs 235 .00- sheep 140 .00-155 .00; 110-130 lbs Hair sheep 150 00-150. 00. . to a short survey will help 260 .00 . us understand how best Selection 2: 80-130 lbs 165 .00-225 .00, 130-180 lbs 200 .00- to serve farmers, and will 235 .00 . Selection 3: 50-80 lbs 130 .00-150 .00; 80-130 lbs 140 .00- contribute to cutting-edge 170 .00, gaunt 100 .00-135 .00 . research planning . Responses will be Slaughter Bucks/Billies: confidential and only shared Selection 1: 100-150 lbs 290 .00-315 .00; 150- 250 lbs 370 .00- in a grouped format . Please 400 .00 . contact us with ANY Selection 2: 80-100 lbs 200 .00-255 .00; 100-150 lbs 235 .00- 275 .00 . questions or concerns at Selection 3: 80-100 lbs 160 .00-210 .00, Gaunt 130 .00-150 .00; info@RichEarthInstitute .org 100-150 lbs 190 .00-240 .00, Gaunt 160 .00-185 .00 . or 802-579-1857 . If you would prefer a Slaughter Wethers: paper survey, please contact Selection 1: 100-150 lbs 270 .00-335 .00; 150-250 lbs 395 .00 . us and we’ll send it right Selection 2: 80-100 lbs 245 .00-275 .00; 100-150 lbs 265 .00- 295 .00 . out! Here’s the survey link: Selection 3: 80-100 lbs 185 .00-225 .00 . https://www .surveymonkey . com/r/FarmerInterestSurvey Price and grade information is reported by QSA-USDA Market News Service . While market reports reflect the majority of livestock sold at each sale, there are instances where animals do not fit reporting categories and are not included in this report .

Source: USDA Market News, New Holland-Lancaster County, PA • http://www .ams .usda .gov/mnreports/LN_LS320 .txt . Levi Geyer, OIC / 717-406-7350 • Kayley Ellis, Market Reporter / 717-354-2391 For all USDA Livestock and Grain market reports:www .ams .usda .gov/LSMarketNews 16 March 25, 2016

Right-Sizing Your Farm

By Kimberly Hagen, Grazing Specialist, Center for Sustainable Agriculture, UVM Extension

wo years ago while attending a conference Ton grazing, I listened to a farmer describing the journey he had made for keeping his farm profitable, the land healthy, and his tions to his farm’s capacity surrounding environment . is attached to each farm, due flow onto the oven floor for quality of life in the “good” – what could it produce and As the water quality issue to its bedrock, soils, topog- a tedious clean-up . That can column . He had rejected what did it need to sustain moves Vermont’s agricultural raphy, water (both under- happen with farms too . the more conventional that production level? What community into deeper lev- ground and surface), type Unfortunately, overflow practices, he said, because he type of livestock did best on els of debate on how to keep of livestock, vegetation and from a farm is costly—nutri- was losing so much money, that landscape? What num- the water clean, it’s clear owner . It’s not unlike baking ents are lost and overloaded working harder than ever, ber hours could he commit that each farm must find that a cake . You lay out the ingre- vegetation, soil and water can and had no time with his to the operation? These “right size.” dients, and mix in proper sputter with suffocation in family . His farm was not were all part of the equation A hundred acres in proportion for taste, lightness a toxic brew . The opposite healthy and neither was he . he juggled until he settled on Addison County is not the and fit to the pan it will be can be just as problematic Yet farming was his choice the right size. This is a good same as a hundred acres in baked in . If the proportions - not providing enough nutri- of profession . He did not exercise for any farmer - Caledonia County . A unique are off, it won’t taste good, it ents, or in disproportionate want to give it up . Trusting especially if they wish to stay set of variables or ingredients may not rise, or could over- amounts to what is needed his own observations and profitable and in balance, not for the soil type and the veg- judgment through many only providing good work, etation - starved, they cannot trials, he eventually right but also preserving the integ- cycle nutrients properly or sized his farm . rity of the soil and water, reproduce . Either way, the With meticulous observa- both on the farm and in the productivity potential is lost . Not only does the farm lose, but we all do as toxicity and/ or starvation taxes the farm’s soil, water and the local envi- ronment, lessening its pro- ductivity as well . Winter’s a great time to reflect, attend some confer- ences and webinars to col- lect some new ideas and formulate thoughts about new strategies for the com- ing year . There are numerous new tools to support and expedite this progression right along, but the basic rules are still the same . Map your farm, find that match of resources, produc- tivity potential, and how best to manage the ingredients for the best possible outcome for the immediate future while also thinking about longer term sustainability .