Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Food, Farm, & Natural Resource Systems
June 2006 Volume 4, No. 2
New wireworm Pests in Western Washington Todd Murray, WSU Extension King County, Eric LaGasa, Chief Entomologist, WSDA Exotic Pest Program, & Bob Vernon, Research Scientist, Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre, In This Issue Agassiz, British Columbia Agriotes obscurus (dusky wireworm) and A. lineatus (lined click beetle) (Coleoptera: Elateridae) are agricultural pests of high importance in Europe (USDA APHIS, 1978). Multiple Articles introductions of the two wireworm species from Europe into North America likely occurred in the early 1900’s through shipping ballasts and importation of horticultural material. New wireworm Pests in Western Washington...... 1 Both pests were first discovered in North America during the 1950’s in British Columbia, Canada (Vernon and Päts, 1997). Bird Flu vs. Pandemic Flu: Connections, Concerns In 1991 in the Fraser Valley, British Columbia, researchers and Clarifications...... 5 estimated that these pests caused damage valued at $800,000 to the potato crop (Vernon, 1998). The two wireworms were Estimated Certified Organic Crop Acreage in Oregon and Washington States...... 7 documented for the first time in the United States near Lynden, WA in 1997. The Washington State Department of Agriculture Exotic Pest Program surveyed for presence and distribution of Save Big on the Farm by Conserving Fuel...... 8 the two wireworm species in 2000, 2004, and 2005 (LaGasa et al., 2000, 2004, 2006). Coordinating Sustainability Via General Education...9 Life History & Damage: Wireworms are the larval stage of click Climate Friendly FarmingTM Symposium and Field beetles. Click beetles are elongate, parallel-sided, compact, Day...... 10 streamlined beetles with serrate (saw blade like) antennae (Figure 1). When looking at the beetles from the top, you will Symposium on “Sustainable Agriculture, recognize that the segment behind Communities, and Environments in the Pacific North west”...... 11 the head (pronotum) has corners that are pointed and fit snuggly Announcements...... 11 around the corners of the wing Announcements...... 12 covers (elytra). The joint between these two regions is extremely Events...... 13 flexible since the underside forms an unusual clicking mechanism Tidbits...... 14 used to flip away from danger, a Resources...... 15 distinguishing characteristic of adult click beetles in the family Resources...... 16 Elateridae. The two new Agriotes Resources...... 17 click beetles are up to ½ inch long and a dusty brown/gray color. A. lineatus is distinguished from A. obscurus by the presence of lighter- Buy Local colored lines on the wing covers. Agriotes wireworms are tubular, segmented, tan-colored larvae that Figure 1: Adult Agriotes Washington - Oregon reach about an inch long when obscurus click beetle (Photo - E. LaGasa) Farm Finder fully grown (Figure 2). Their life Continued on next page
Washington State University Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. plants. Their preferred habitats are established pastures, sod, and grasslands (considered by some researchers to be essential requirements of high population growth). Growers face the most problems when they rotate crops into land that has been in pasture for some years and remove the larvae’s preferred food source through tilling. In the absence of other food sources, wireworms feed on germinating seeds or transplants of crops planted in spring. Agricultural production impacts attributed to these exotic pest species Sustaining the Pacific Northwest are becoming significant in areas of Food, Farm, & Natural Resource Systems Figure 2: Agriotes lavae showing variations in sizes and ages . Northwestern Washington. Certified This quarterly newsletter provides a discus- (Photo - E. LaGasa) seed potato growers in Whatcom sion forum for people working towards County (adjacent to Canada) are well community-based sustainable food, farm, cycle takes between 4 - 5 years to aware that exotic wireworms are an and natural resource systems using interdis- complete, depending on resources and issue in their area. Some growers ciplinary oriented research and practitioner environmental conditions. The length survey for wireworms on a limited knowledge. of their lifecycle makes managing basis, but all rely on a preventative This is a joint newsletter of the WSU this pest difficult. Adult beetles lay pre-planting broadcast soil treatment Center for Sustaining Agriculture & Natural eggs in the soil near suitable food of insecticide, which prevented Resources, the WSU Small Farms Team, the sources. Eggs hatch in 2-3 weeks. The wireworm damage to their crop. WSU Small Farms Program and the Water larvae then use carbon dioxide (CO2) Certification inspections in 2005 Quality Management Team. produced from germinating seeds and noted only minimal and occasional growing root tips to find their food Editorial Staff: wireworm damage that will not affect and can detect CO2 from up to 20cm quality of grade. Douglas M. Stienbarger (~8”) away in the soil. In spring, the County Director, Clark County majority of larvae live in the top three One seed potato grower with extensive WSU ANR Extension Faculty inches of soil. However, larvae may wireworm damage to his crop last year 360-397-6060 x7716 move at least two feet down into the had only insignificant wireworm [email protected] soil given favorable soil temperatures tuber damage following a preventative Carol Miles, Ph.D. and food resources. The larvae pupate treatment this year. Extensive Agricultural Systems, WSU in the soil in the late summer. Adults wireworm damage occurred in only Vancouver Research & Extension Unit remain in the soil through winter until two seed lots (Pike variety) during 360-576-6030 soil temperatures warm to 50oF in the [email protected] harvest/storage inspections this year, spring. Peak adult Cindy Armstong flight occurs in late Assistant to Director, WSU CSANR April or early May, Figure 3: Flight Pattern, Single Location in 253-445-4626 but can extend King County, WA. [email protected] through late June 500 Chad E Kruger (Figure 3). 450 Communication & Outreach Director 400 Climate Friendly Farming The larvae of A. obscuris A. lineatus 509-663-8181 235 these two species 350 [email protected] prefer feeding on 300 Marcy Ostrom, Ph.D. grass seeds and 250 WSU Small Farms Program roots, but have 200 509-663-8181 x263 also been found 150 [email protected] in strawberries 100 (roots and fruit), Bob Simmons 50 County Director, Mason County cereals, forages, vegetable, tuber 0 WSU Water Resources Faculty 4/30 5/8 5/15 5/24 5/30 6/6 6/13 6/20 360-427-9670 x396 c r o p s , a n d [email protected] v a r i o u s w e e d and ornamental Continued on next page
4 (2) Page 2 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest on a site where field corn was grown are available at PheroTech Inc. the previous year and rotated from (Vernon, 2004). While interpreting potatoes the year before that. Both pheromone trap data is difficult, lots failed to make certification grade, the data is very useful to sample and will likely lead to substantial crop for beetle presence if no previous Figure 4a loss due to marginal quality (LaGasa sampling has occurred in a given et al., 2006). area. Visit http://whatcom.wsu. edu/pestsurvey/ for previous and on- Corn producers in Northwestern going Western Washington survey Washington have recently noted results. significant plant mortality and yield reduction in corn stands due to Agriotes Pre-planting field assessments species. Plant damage from wireworms are most useful for wireworm ranges from very little to 50% with management. Since fields left in significant yield losses of 25% in the grasses for 10-15 years are likely to remaining crop. Growers are now have high wireworm populations Figure 4b adopting pre-planting seed treatments (Unknown author, 2005), it is or tandem seeding applications of important to assess fields that have organophosphate insecticides to avoid been in grasslands over five years. yield loss. Insecticide applications Cereal bait stations placed in require high rates to be effective since springtime are best for monitoring low rates do not sufficiently prevent wireworm populations. University wireworm damage. This is the first of Missouri researchers developed time that corn growers in Whatcom an effective cereal bait station for County used pre-planting treatments monitoring wireworms prior to of insecticides (Midboe, 2006). planting (Radcliff et al., 2004). Figure 4c Organic vegetable production in the The supplies needed for baiting heavily infested areas is particularly wireworm larvae include: vulnerable to economic damage from Medium-grade vermiculite these exotic wireworms. Row-crop impacts experienced by one Whatcom Untreated seed corn (e.g. County organic producer in 2004 and variety 39K40) 2005 were severe. Much of the problem Untreated hard red spring resulted from the grower’s attempts to wheat seed plant in newly tilled ground that had 8” Plastic plant pots been in pasture or lawn for at least ten years, the most problematic situation Storage boxes Figure 4d recognized for wireworm damage Soil corer (golf cup cutter) in Canada. Nonetheless, damage Trowels occurred in other situations, with up to 100% loss in some cases. One Plastic bags Whatcom County organic producer Camera film canisters reported a 50% loss of watermelons Wire flags (Photos - Bob Vernon) and tomatillos, a 75% loss to Brussels Bait stations may be stored in a box sprouts, and a 100% loss of corn. To construct a bait station: This grower also experienced a 10% until needed, but you should label the loss of tomato seedlings within 24 • Fill an eight-inch plant pot box with the date its contents were hours of planting (Schlamp, personal half-full with vermiculite (Figure assembled. communication). Damage experienced 4a). Prior to planting, saturate each bait by Northwestern Washington organic • Add one film canister of corn trap (twice) to get germination going. growers is consistent with damage seed and one canister of wheat At each trap site, use the soil corer (if reported by organic growers in areas seed (= 100 ml of each) to the available) to remove a plug of soil 6 of Europe (Rod Blackshaw, personal pot (Figure 4b and 4c). inches deep, and place the trap at the communication). bottom of the hole. Use trowels to • Level the seed, and fill the pot Monitoring & Management collapse the sides of the hole so that to the brim with more vermiculite there are no air gaps around the pot. Vernon recently developed pheromone (Figure 4d). Carefully fill in the hole. At the top, traps to monitor the presence and activity of adult beetles and these Continued on next page
4 (2) Page 3 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest place an inverted saucer over the hole currently being researched (Frost et al., Schlemp, K. 2005. Personal so that the rim is completely buried, 2003; and Waliwitiya, 2005). communication. Washington State and the base of the saucer is exposed University Extension, Whatcom and level with the soil surface. Each Canadian growers have adopted the County. cover crop technique to manage trap should remain in place for 10- Parker, Bill. 2005. Wireworm Expert wireworm infestations, and this 14 days. Be sure to flag the trap Guide 2005. Bayer CropScience. location so you can easily find the strategy may enable organic growers to USDA APHIS. 1978. Lined Click bait station. reduce the amount of feeding pressure in the crop rows. Washington State Beetle: Agriotes lineatus (L.) and Inspect traps for wireworms by sifting growers who do not attempt to control a wireworm, Agriotes obscurus through the vermiculite and seeds. wireworms can expect significant crop (L.) in Pests not Known to Occur This is easiest when you spread the damage as pest populations build. in the United States or of limited trap contents across a flat surface in distribution, No. 5 in Series, USDA a dry working area. If you cannot Pertinent Literature Cooperative Plant Pest Report, 3(48- look for wireworms in the field, place Blackshaw, R. 2006. Personal 52):731-734, 1978. each trap in a bag (one trap per bag) communication. University of Vernon, R.S. 2004. A ground-based along with a written tag identifying Plymouth – United Kingdom. pheromone trap for monitoring its location and date. Seal the bag Frost, D., A. Clarke & B. M. Agriotes lineatus and A. obscurus and store in a cool dark place until McLean. 2002. Wireworm control (Coleoptera: Elateridae). Journal you are able to inspect its contents at using fodder rape and mustard of Entomological Society of British a later time; however, do not neglect – evaluating the use of brassica green Columbia. 101: p. 141-142. samples, it is unknown how long they manures for the control of wireworm Vernon, R.S. 2005. Aggregation will keep in this condition. (Agriotes spp.) in organic crops. and mortality of Agriotes Current research aims to find multiple ADAS Pwllpeiran, Cwmystwyth, obscurus (Coleoptera: Elateridae) strategies to manage wireworms Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 at insecticide-treated trap crops while reducing the need for soil 4AB. of wheat. Journal of Economic applied insecticides. Tilling the soil LaGasa, E., B. Vernon, J. Wraspir, Entomology. 98: p. 1999-2005. in the early spring may help reduce P. Hertzog, and H. Kamping. 2000. Vernon, B. and P. Pats. 1997. wireworm populations as they migrate 2000 Western Washington exotic Distribution of two European into the top layer of soil. Research wireworm survey, a preliminary wireworms, Agriotes lineatus and has shown that wireworms move detection and delimiting survey for A. obscurus in British Columbia. into alleyways planted with a wheat Agriotes obscurus and A. lineatus Journal of the Entomological cover crop one week prior to planting (Coleoptera: Elateridae). WSDA PUB Society of British Columbia, Vol. crops in the open rows (Vernon et al., 047 (N/1/01). 94, December 1997, pp.59-61. 2000). The germinating wheat seeds LaGasa, E., J. Loucks, and L. Spurrier. Vernon, R.S., T. Kabaluk, & A. draw wireworms out of the rows and 2004. 2004 Western Washington Behringer. 2000. Movement of into the alleyways. Insecticide-treated delimiting survey for Agriotes Agriotes obscurus (Coleoptera: wheat seeds used between rows can obscurus and A. lineatus (Coleoptera: Elateridae) in strawberry (Rosaceae) also reduce wireworm populations Elateridae). exotic wireworms new plantings with wheat (Gramineae) as (Vernon, 2005), although the to the United States. WSDA PUB a trap crop. Canadian Entomologist. insecticide used in the study (lindane) 805-122 (N/1/01). 132, no. 2: p. 231-241. has now been banned. Utilizing pre- planting soil insecticides may still be LaGasa, E, S. Welch, T. Murray & Waliwitiya, R., M.B. Isman, an effective management strategy for J. Wraspir. 2006. 2005 Western R.S.Vernon, & A. Riseman. 2005. wireworms during the spring. Check Washington delimiting survey Insecticidal activity of selected with your local Extension office or for Agriotes obscurus and A. monoterpenoids and rosemary oil licensed crop consultant for current lineatus (Coleoptera: Elateridae), to Agriotes obscurus (Coleoptera: recommendations for seed treatments exotic wireworm pests new to the Elateridae). Journal of Economic and soil-applied insecticides. United Sates. WSDA PUB 805-144 Entomology. 98, (2005 Oct.): p. (N/10/05). 1560-1565. Currently there are no effective, Midboe, S. 2006. Personal commercially available natural communication. Whatcom Farmers enemies of wireworms. Researchers Coop. Lynden, WA. are looking at developing naturally occurring strains of entomopathic Ratcliffe, S.T., M.E. Gray & K.L. fungi and nematodes to help reduce Steffey. 2004. Using Solar Bait wireworm larval populations. Stations to Monitor for Wireworms. Alternative soil treatments such as Univeristy of Illinois Extension. biofumigation with Brassica crops or other insecticidal botanicals are also
4 (2) Page 4 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Bird Flu vs. Pandemic Flu: Most human cases of AI from the even consuming infected poultry, H5N1 strain have resulted from only about 100 humans have died Connections, Concerns and direct contact with sick or infected from highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Clarifications poultry or indirect contact through Influenza. There is no sustained and contaminated surfaces. The spread rapid person-to-person spread. Susan Kerr, WSU Extension of AI from one ill person to another Klickitat County Extension Faculty is rare and has not been reported to Report sick birds to the USDA’s spread beyond one person. Background Biosecurity or the Birds” Bird Flu and Pandemic Flu: What’s campaign at 866-536-7593. Avian Influenza (AI) is a highly the Connection? contagious disease of all birds caused Points of Clarification by a type A influenza virus. Numerous Currently, the highly pathogenic subtypes of this virus exist and vary H5N1 AI virus remains primarily an There are many strains of bird flu and in their ability to cause illness. These animal health concern. However, many of them cause little or no harm subtypes are classified according to due to the influenza virus’ ability to to birds. their surface proteins; H5N1 is the continually mutate, some scientists name of the virus subtype causing are concerned this virus could gain the AI is not new to our country; the the current AI outbreaks in Asia and ability to spread quickly and directly USDA monitors constantly for this Europe. from human to human. Indeed, data important poultry disease and has reported in Science Magazine points well-established protocols in place for The virus resides in wild bird to the possibility of a bird flu origin for detection and eradication. populations. Some strains cause the 1918 human influenza pandemic severe illness in chickens, turkeys, The U.S. has experienced three that killed an estimated 20 to 50 outbreaks due to AI viruses, yet no and other domestic birds. Outbreaks million people worldwide. are occurring at any given time cases of severe human illness or death somewhere in the world. The U.S. If the virus gains the ability to transmit resulted. has experienced, responded to, and quickly and directly between humans, The U.S. Department of the Interior contained three outbreaks of highly such as happens with the seasonal flu routinely monitors for AI in wild pathogenic AI in the past. Although virus, a worldwide outbreak of severe migratory birds. Although some of cases of human illness occurred, no human illness could occur. This has the birds tested so far in 2006 were deaths were reported. not yet happened and there is no positive for AI, none were carrying the current pandemic flu. However, we are highly pathogenic H5N1 virus. AI in Humans at stage three on a six-stage Pandemic Avian influenza has always been a Flu Alert Scale: Human infections with Americans typically have much less human health concern and poultry a new subtype have occurred, but no intimate contact with poultry than workers routinely protect themselves human-to-human spread, or at most do citizens in the countries where against it. Signs of illness typically rare instances of spread to a close human deaths from H5N1 AI have include mild respiratory illness, flu- contact. A pandemic can happen occurred. Americans also usually have like symptoms and eye inflammation. when a new, contagious, disease- much better access to basic sanitation In 1997, however, a bird in Hong causing agent emerges against which essentials (clean running water, Kong transmitted the H5N1 strain of humans do not have immunity. soap and disinfectants) and greater the virus to a human, who became ability to follow safe food handling Many public health officials believe it recommendations. seriously ill and died. Since then, is inevitable highly pathogenic H5N1 about 100 humans have died from AI will arrive in the U.S. through Due to the highly pathogenic nature contracting the highly pathogenic wild birds. However, detection of of this virus, it is unlikely sick birds H5NI strain of the AI virus. In the this virus does not mean the start would arrive appearing healthy at Asian and European outbreaks, more of a human pandemic flu outbreak. processing plants. Sick birds would than fifty percent of those infected This disease remains an animal be detected by inspectors and not have died. health issue. Despite millions of processed for human consumption. humans living intimately with and Properly-cooked poultry poses no bird flu threat to human health. “At the moment, the H5N1 influenza virus is mainly a threat to birds. The Routine food safety steps are simple virus can infect and kill other animals but only if they have close contact with and effective insurance measures. infected birds. The big concern is that it will gain the ability to pass easily Cook poultry products to 165°F to from person to person, possibly by exchanging genes with an ordinary flu prevent the transmission of food virus in the body of some unlucky person infected with both. That has not borne illness. happened yet, and until it does, there can be no pandemic.” --Dr. Andrew Weil, Time Magazine, Jan. 23, 2006. Monitoring Continued on next page 4 (2) Page 5 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest translates into effective preparation for The federal government has a national Other Resources other emergencies, such as prolonged strategy for pandemic flu preparation. Washington Department of Health power outages, earthquakes, or even a Efforts include expanding traditional severe seasonal flu outbreak. and innovative vaccine production US Department of Agriculture methods, stockpiling antiviral Industry avian flu site A pandemic flu outbreak would have medications, testing wild and World Health Organization monumental impact on society. domestic birds and conducting public However, proper planning will education outreach. Federal and OSHA reduce the duration and amount of state governments have developed National Chicken Council that impact. Proper planning by many resources to help individuals, individuals, families, and communities Centers for Disease Control and families and communities prepare for Prevention can decrease the impact of a flu pandemic flu. Planning guides for outbreak and get things back to normal individuals, businesses, schools, health Washington Department of Fish & more quickly. Those who are prepared care providers, and communities are Wildlife will not panic; prepared communities available at www.pandemicflu.gov. Institute for Agriculture and Trade will be resilient and quick to respond Policy and return to normalcy. Estimated Certified Organic Crop Acreage in Oregon and Washington States David Granatstein & Chris Feise, WSU CSANR, and Elizabeth Kirby, WSU, Wenatchee, WA The 2005 certified organic farm acreage includes data acreage certified by the Washington State Department of Agriculture’s (WSDA) Organic Food Program, the Oregon Tilth Certification Organization (OTCO), and Quality Assurance International (QAI). The data represent a conservative estimate of the total organic acreage since it excludes acreage: 1) certified by agencies other than those listed above, 2) exempt from certification, and 3) farmed by producers who choose not to be certified. To view the complete reports, visit CSANR. WashingtonIn 2005, Washington’s almost 41,000 certified organic acres produced primarily vegetables, tree fruit, and forages. The types of production on transition acreage indicates organic production of these three crops will continue to expand in the future. Certified vegetable production increased by more than 1000 acres (10%) in 2005. Substantial increases in the number of pea and sweet corn acres occurred, including 1,172 double-cropped acres in the Columbia Basin. Large-scale vegetable production occurs primarily in the irrigated south central region (Grant, Yakima, Adams, Benton, and Franklin counties), while western Washington farms comprise smaller, more diverse organic Table 1: Estimated Certified Organic and Transition vegetable production. Acreage – Washington (2005) Organic tree fruit production, based in Crops Certified Transition % of Total Certified % Increase the central, irrigated areas of the state, Acreage Acreage Certified Acreage in Certified leveled off in 2005, but can be expected to (2005) (2005) Organic (2004) Organic significantly expand over the next few years Acreage Acreage due to increasing market demand. Apple (2005) (2004-2005) acreage dominates (75%) this category and Vegetables 10,985 35 27% 9,971 10% also shows a substantial number of acres in Tree Fruit 8,955 1,617 22% 9,468 -5% transition, while organic pear production Forage 7,907 136 19% 8,400 -6% has declined since 2002. Cherry acreage Grains and Beans 6,347 287 15% 5,435 17% has increased gradually for several years and Small Fruit and Nuts 2,535 116 6% 2,528 0% will likely continued to expand. Other Land Fallow / Idle 2,136 5% 2,562 -17% The growth in the organic dairy sector Timber / Woods 484 1% 430 13% created demand for organic forages and Other, unspecified 53 0.10% grain and represents the primary market Herbs and Mixed 926 2% 1,079 -14% for these crops. Although the number Hort. of certified acres producing grain (6,347) Other Crops 665 4 2% 372 79% remains a very small fraction of the total Total 40,993 2,195 40,245 2% acreage in grain, organic grain acreage increased 17% in 2005. Continued on next page
4 (2) Page 7 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Oregon Save Big on the Farm by In 2005, Oregon’s certified organic acreage surged 36% to approximately Conserving Fuel 42,000 acres (Table 2). Since 2002, the certified acreage increased 50%. Seed crops, vegetables, and forages increased the most (189%, 102% and 45% Todd Murray , WSU Extension King respectively). The transitional acreage in forages indicates this area will County, Kim Lyons, WSU Energy continue to expand. Program Organic forage acreage accounted for over two-thirds the organic acreage in One of the best ways to deal with rising Oregon in 2005. Principle forage crops include alfalfa, mixed hay, and pasture gas prices is to conserve fuel on your land. The increasing numbers of certified livestock likely forms the primary farm. As with all savings, some simple market for these crops. Organic dairy operations increased from 26 to 37 and changes can add up over time. Below estimated dairy herd numbers certified by OTCO increased by 15% in 2005 are tips on reducing fuel consumption resulting in over 13,500 dairy cows and 1500 beef cattle certified organic in and on adopting alternative fuels. By the state of Oregon. incorporating these changes into your routine, you will use less fuel and save Vegetable crops comprise 10% organic acreage (4,231 acres), primarily money! supporting peas and green bean production. Seed crops are predominantly vegetables so organic seed production is expected to increase in Oregon. Avoid unnecessary driving. Use cell phones or other convenient technologies to answer emergencies and solve problems in the field. Slow down your pace. Rapid Table 2: Estimated Certified Organic and Transition Acreage acceleration and braking reduces your – Oregon (2005) vehicle’s gas efficiency.
Crops Certified Transition % of Total Certified % Increase Choose the right vehicle for the right Acreage Acreage Certified Acreage in Certified job. Use smaller vehicles such as (2005) (2005) Organic Acreage (2004) Organic ATVs, motorcycles or bicycles for (2005) Acreage (2004- 2005) smaller chores that don’t require the Forage 28,600 871 68% 19,778 45% hauling power of a truck or tractor. Vegetables 4,231 91 10% 2,094 102% Match the capacity of your tractor Grains, Pulses, 2,542 50 6% 2,214 15% to the job. Using a large tractor for Oilseeds a small job can waste fuel; likewise, Fruit and Nuts 1,867 78 4% 1,754 6% pulling a heavy load with a small Fallow / Idle 1,795 177 4% 1,499 tractor is also inefficient. Other Land 1,712 62 4% 2,737 Reduce how often you till and Herbs, Mixed 529 61 1% 614 -14% consider trying no-till techniques. Hort., Nursury/GH Tilling, especially on compacted soils, Seed Crops 497 1% 172 189% requires larger amounts of fuel from Other Crops 449 31 1% 110 your tractors. Total 42,222 1,421 30,972 36% Totals may not add up exactly due to decimal differences. Share distribution costs with your neighbors. Establish a truck share Some % Increases not calculated due to category changes from 2004 to 2005. with neighboring farms that sell at the same markets to reduce fuel costs and vehicle wear and tear. Mulch in high traffic areas. Reduce the time you spend mowing and prevent soil compaction by mulching with bark chips in heavily used areas. Maintain your small engines, generators and tractors. Check regularly for leaks, smoke and other signs of improper fuel combustion.
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4 (2) Page 8 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Regularly check and replace air and Avoid using winter fuels during University of Kentucky’s Extension: fuel filters. the summer season. Winter fuels Fuel Saving Tips are refined to be lighter and more Clean your tractor’s fuel injectors viscous, but they contain about 3% University of Minnesota Engineering regularly. Clogged injectors cause less energy. Notes: Fuel Saving Ideas for Farmers fuel to combust inefficiently. Biodiesel Fuels WSU Extension Energy Program Keep tire pressure at the lowest recommended level. Tires supporting Alternative fuels, such as biodiesel, WSU Climate Friendly Farming a full load should bulge out. Over- are becoming a more viable option More information on using and under-inflated tires wear sooner for farmers interested in reducing biodiesel and cause engines to work harder. their reliance on petroleum. Below are a few considerations to make when Biodiesel Handling and Use Guidelines, Avoid using new tires. New tractor transitioning to a new fuel. US Dept of Energy tires with long lugs work great in wet soils. However, on flat, dry soils new Use fuels that meet American Society National Biodiesel Board tires are less efficient in providing for Testing and Materials (ASTM) power on the ground and require international standards (ASTM D6751 University of Idaho Biodiesel Fuel more fuel for a given job. Use tractors for biodiesel) to ensure fuel quality Education Program with new tires on rainy days and in and engine performance. WSU Center for Sustaining Agriculture muddy conditions. Biodiesel blends can be burned in and Natural Resources Balance your tractor’s towing weight existing engines with little or no to reflect typical conditions, not modifications. However, as a solvent, worst-case scenarios. Over-ballasting biodiesel will degrade seals, gaskets Coordinating Sustainability your tractor can result in premature and fuel lines made of natural rubber. engine wear, burn more fuel and cause Pre-1994 vehicles may need to replace Via General Education your tractor to respond sluggishly. these parts with synthetic materials. Hope Belli Tinney, WSU University Furthermore, biodiesel will clean out Limit engine idling time. It is more fuel tank sediments during initial use, Relations efficient to restart your engine than which may plug the fuel filter. It is to let it idle for extended periods of WSU Today. Sustainability cuts across important to inspect your filters and discussions of the environment and time. Idling typically consumes about replace them as needed. Cleaning fuel 1 gallon of diesel fuel per hour. agriculture, but also business, health tanks prior to using biodiesel will help care, education, politics and a plethora Gear up and throttle down when to minimize this problem. of other issues. Richard Law, Director you are not hauling weight. For Biodiesel does not void engine of General Education at WSU, would applications requiring less than 65- warranties. Engine manufacturers like to ensure sustainability discussions 70% of full engine power, it is best to warrant for parts and assembly of their form part of the undergraduate slow down the engine rpm and shift engines, and do not warrant their curriculum. to a higher gear to maintain engine engines for specific fuels. The fuel Law urged WSU’s Sustainability speed. This will reduce the amount supplier is responsible for fuel-caused of fuel used. Workgroup faculty whose courses engine problems, so it is important to touch on the topic include their work with reputable suppliers whose courses in the general education products meet ASTM specifications. curriculum at the lower levels, but Biodiesel can gel at cold temperatures. especially at the tier-three level Fuel blends and additives can control (required 400-level course outside a this, so it is important to make sure student’s major). “As members of your fuel supplier is aware of your an institution of higher education, operating conditions. Information on saving fuel around the farm Alberta’s AgTech Innovator Colorado State’s Selecting a Fuel Efficient Tractor Energy Ideas Clearinghouse
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4 (2) Page 9 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest the nature of our responsibilities John Aeschliman served tour compels each one of us to do as much participants cake prepared with as we can to transform our students Shepherd’s Grain flour made from and ourselves into citizens who can grain produced by 12 local farmers effectively address the mounting (including the Aeschliman’s and environmental, social and economic Smith’s) in sustainable production challenges before us,” he wrote. systems. In the fields, John demonstrated the improved health John Glass, coordinator of the Campus of his soils by conducting a water Sustainability Initiative, said the infiltration test and deep soil probes sustainability movement really started Biofuel varitey trials. to examine carbon and earthworms. to ramp up about five or six years on key climate-dependent industries The group ended the first day at ago, and WSU has made great strides in the region, such as agriculture. the WSU Dairy where Shulin Chen, in a number of areas, but curricular The Climate Friendly FarmingTM WSU Biological Systems Engineering, support for sustainability is still weak. Project (CFF), funded in part by the demonstrated the novel anaerobic “In all the universities that have Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, digestion technology developed as tried to tackle this problem,” he said, aims to develop and implement part of the CFF Project. “that’s the major challenge.” agricultural systems and practices that mitigate global climate change and In the evening program, Amy Snover, “Learning about sustainability often help Washington farming systems Research Scientist with the University has practical and applied implications become more resilient and adapted of Washington’s Climate Impacts involving behavior changes that other to changing climates. Agriculture Group, described the research and kinds of environmental studies do can help mitigate climate change by modeling efforts evaluating past not necessarily have,” Law writes. reducing emissions of greenhouse and future changes and variability “Therefore, in my view, we can’t have gases (e.g., carbon dioxide, methane, in climate in our region. She too much on the subject.” Law’s and nitrous oxide), removing described likely impacts, such as definition of sustainability is quite atmospheric carbon and storing it in reduced snowpack, increasingly broad, including anything that deals soils and vegetation, and replacing erratic precipitation, potential pest with resource depletion or that links fossil fuel-derived energy and products infestations, etc., likely to affect human activities with systems of reuse. with biomass-derived energy and natural resource-based industries. Many faculty members are dealing products. Agriculture can adapt to She recommended the agricultural with these issues, he said, but their climate change through improved soil industry adopt a “no-regrets” type efforts are still largely unconnected health, improved diversity in cropping of adaptation strategy to prepare for in the curriculum, except in a few systems, “precision agroecology”, and continued climate changes. programs. adaptive management. “What I think we have is a critical In partnership with the Pacific mass of people who are profoundly Northwest Direct Seed Association interested in this issue who don’t (PNDSA), USDA’s Agricultural Research know about each other,” he said. For Service, and WSU’s Department more information about curriculum of Crops & Soil Sciences, CSANR support for sustainability, go to hosted a two-day event in June WSU’s sustainability initiative, or to demonstrate aspects of CFF in the website of the Association for dryland agroecosystems of the Pacific the Advancement of Sustainability in Northwest. Participants first toured Higher Education. the Palouse region, stopping at Read Canola and mustard trials. and Jeremy Smith’s farm near St. John and John Aeschliman’s farm Climate Friendly FarmingTM near Colfax. Read described how The second day featured the efforts the Glacial Lake Missoula floods of the CFF Team during the annual Symposium and Field Day carved out the channeled scablands Dryland Cropping Systems Field Day at the USDA Palouse Conservation Chad Kruger, Director of bordering his ranch and described how three generations of conservation Farm in Pullman. Field stops included Communications & Outreach, Climate management will make it possible an overview of the Agroecosystem Friendly Farming, CSANR to pass along his land to his son Research Trials (ART), including Recent research and analysis project Jeremy. Read led the group through the perennial wheat/spring wheat climate changes for the Pacific a neighbor’s field onto his own, polyculture and the direct-seed Northwest over the next few decades demonstrating a remarkable difference organic trials, by Dave Huggins (USDA that will likely have profound in quality and health of fields under ARS); precision nitrogen management environmental and economic impacts different management systems. Continued on next page
4 (2) Page 10 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest structure of agriculture in the United identify benefits and challenges for States and the influence of federal implementation in our region, and agricultural development principles seek input from the producers on and policies on that structure. Dr. preferred technologies, desired uses Allan stated that local communities for the biogas, and how these systems play a vital role in the development of might be incorporated into existing sustainable agricultural practices, but small farms. WSU’s extensive video- these communities must be effective conferencing network will facilitate in understanding and constructively program delivery to areas all around intervening in the market economy. the state. Check CSANR’s website for announcements related to this Canola economics by Kate Painter, On the second day, academic WSU CSANR workshop and project or contact researchers, extension specialists, Chad Kruger ([email protected] or technology by Dan Long (USDA ARS); graduate students, and private sector 509-663-8181 x235) to be notified of canola and mustard trials by Jack consultants from around the Pacific coming events. Brown (UI); canola economics by Kate Northwest presented current research Painter (WSU CSANR); biofuels variety efforts. Presentations included oral WSU Organic Agriculture trials by Hal Collins (USDA ARS) and panel presentations and discussions Major Approved and parallel poster presentations and biofuels zoo by Mark Stannard (USDA Dennis Brown, College of Agricultural, NRCS); and carbon and nitrogen discussions. Themes included: science, agriculture, and sustainability; equity, Human, and Natural Resource cycling and carbon credits by David Sciences Granatstein and Lynn Carpenter- diversity, and sustainability; pesticides Boggs (WSU CSANR). The lunch and alternatives; markets, trade, and WSU Today. It’s been a long time presentation was a dedication to sustainability; agriculture, health, and coming, but Washington State Dr. Robert Papendick, the retired sustainability. University received approval from the USDA Soil Scientist who was an early Three guided field trips took place state Higher Education Coordinating leader in research efforts promoting the third day: to the Pasco Farmers’ Board to offer a Bachelor’s of Science conservation farming and sustainable Market, a culturally diverse, local degree in Agriculture and Food and organic agriculture. fresh market; to a local, organic, Systems, the nation’s first major in artisan winery; and to the Thundering organic agriculture systems. Hooves certified organic livestock The new interdisciplinary degree Symposium on “Sustainable pasturing ranch in Walla Walla. These integrates coursework from all trips helped participants link concepts Agriculture, Communities, agricultural disciplines in the College discussed in research presentations of Agricultural, Human, and Natural and Environments in the to living agriculture, community Resource Sciences. “We have changed Pacific Northwest” relations and dynamics. our agricultural program to meet the demands of employers for well- David A. Sonnenfeld, WSU rounded graduates who have critical Community and Rural Sociology thinking, communications and leadership skills, as well as strong In May, WSU’s Department of CSANR Begins Work on Small- technical skills,” said Ray Folwell, Community & Rural Sociology, scale Biogas Technology Associate Dean and Director of in partnership with Humanities academic programs in the college. Washington, CSANR, and WSU’s The December 2005 issue of Sustaining Food and Environmental Quality the Pacific Northwest highlighted the Laboratory, sponsored a symposium potential for anaerobic digestion on Sustainable Agriculture, technology to address waste Communities, and Environments in management issues on small farms. the Pacific Northwest at WSU’s Tri- CSANR will use a grant from Western Cities campus. SARE to conduct a pilot project constructing and evaluating the Starting this fall, five majors will Over 120 participants from around performance of three individual small- be offered: Organic Agriculture, the Pacific Northwest listened to scale biogas plants on small farms Agricultural Business and Technology the keynote speaker, Dr. John Allen, in different agro-climatic regions of Systems, Agricultural Education, Pest Director of the USDA Western Rural Washington State. Management Systems, and Plants Development Center at Utah State and Soil Systems. “In each major, University, talk on The Role of An initial producer workshop will emphasis is placed on gaining a Community in Supporting Sustainable be held in late summer to overview solid background in the agricultural Agriculture. Dr. Allan provided a various types of existing biogas brief history of the evolution of the systems, describe how they function, Continued on next page
4 (2) Page 11 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest sciences, including how to work with biological cycles. “I’m ecstatic about and in the complexity of agriculture this new opportunity for myself, and food systems,” said Cathy WSU, and Washington agriculture Perillo, coordinator of the new degree to combine traditional knowledge program. “All students will take a with new innovations and researcher core set of classes to develop a broad knowledge with producer know-how, interdisciplinary background, while to create paths toward increased also studying specific subjects that sustainability,” says Dr. Boggs. will prepare them for their chosen fields.” For more information, contact Dr. Boggs at 335-1553, 227 Johnson Hall, An internship related to the student’s or by mail c/o Crop and Soil Sciences, major will be required, as well as a PO Box 646420, Pullman, WA. seminar class in delivering technical intensive and organic approaches presentations to a diverse audience. to building sustainable agriculture, WSU Farm Family Support The major includes a summer farming systems, communities, and Network Enter 4th Year practicum at WSU’s three-acre organic ecosystems. Examples of BIOAg farm on the east edge of campus. include biological pest and weed There, students will get hands-on control, organic farming, direct experience in planting, nurturing, seeding (no-till farming), cover crops, harvesting and marketing organic management intensive grazing, produce. and agroforestry. BIOAg practices are useful to the full spectrum of The new Organic Agriculture Systems farming operations in Washington-- major will appeal not only to aspiring conventional and organic, small and organic farmers but also to people large, eastside and westside. Growers interested in related industries, such are interested in BIOAg options to as global marketing, direct marketing, deal with rising fertilizer costs, pest This network of consultants are trained or organic food, according to Perillo. management challenges, changing by WSU Extension to understand “There’s quite a bit of industry interest climate, and new market expectations. agriculture in Washington and the in the new degree, too,” Perillo said. With the BIOAg program, CSANR is resources available for farm families. “Large corporations are increasingly helping to meet the growing demand Free and confidential, consultants interested in meeting the nation’s for this type of information among approach the farm family’s needs on growing appetite for organic foods are both farmers and consumers. “ a holistic basis; one consultant deals seeking employees who understand with all of the issues. The consultants organic agriculture systems, which Dr. Boggs goes on to announce a are trained in financial analysis, to are significantly different than small research and demonstration review business plans, mediate family conventional agriculture.” grant program which will hire a issues, and deal with a myriad of value-added specialist who will focus topics pertinent to the farm family Organic food is one of the fastest on economics and marketing of and the farm. We also act as a source growing segments of agriculture BIOAg products. According to Dr. of information that may be useful in with retail sales escalating 20 percent Boggs, BIOAg research projects will assisting with a solution. Consulting annually since 1990, according to a include practical alternatives in the is available in English and Spanish. 2002 U.S. Department of Agriculture short-term, and some more visionary report. and far-reaching. The program Shiitake Mushroom Market Study Planned New BIOAg Coordinator at will also develop outreach and CSANR demonstrations that put our current ATTRA. The University of Missouri best knowledge into action. She also Center for Agroforestry (UMCA) Dr. Lynne Carpenter-Boggs was named hopes to expand the grants program is launching a nationwide survey the first BIOAg Coordinator. BIOAg and draw in many more partners to including all individuals and stands for biologically-intensive grow the BIOAg program and enhance businesses that are active participants agriculture and organic farming WSU’s contributions to sustainable in the shiitake mushroom market, in and comprises a growing research, agriculture in Washington. order to obtain information about the outreach, and education program of market to aid businesses. Producers Washington State University’s Center Dr. Boggs grew up on farms and in rural communities in Oregon who participate in the survey will for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural receive copies of the resulting report, Resources (CSANR) and Idaho. While her research background is in soil and compost which will provide an industry Dr. Boggs says “The BIOAg microbiology, her personal goal is to snapshot and predict trends for the program fosters the development, foster the growth of a sustainable and next five years. The information understanding, and use of biologically vibrant agriculture using knowledge of Continued on next page 4 (2) Page 12 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest in the report will help producers other courses, contact Theresa Beaver Master Dairy Goat Farmer better identify market opportunities at 360-379-5610 ext. 230. Program and problems, generate, refine and evaluate marketing actions, and Course topics include: This program runs October 27 – 29 monitor marketing performance. If Sustainability Concepts at the WSU Puyallup Research & Extension Center (7612 Pioneer you are a shiitake mushroom producer Whole Farm Planning and have not received a survey, please Way E., Puyallup, WA). Learn about Resource Evaluation contact UMCA at goldm@missouri. nutrition, management and marketing edu, [email protected], or 573- Direct Marketing of milk, herd management, genetics, 884-1448. Enterprise Assessment reproduction, business techniques, and the management and marketing Sustainable Crop Production of meat. Ecological Soils Management Sustainable Small Acreage A $30.00 fee covers speakers and Integrated Pest & Weed participant notebooks. Please make Farming & Ranching Course Management checks payable to WSU-SFA. For an Sustainable Livestock & Poultry Aimed at local farmers and those application and information, contact interested in becoming farmers Grazing Mgmt. on Small Gary Fredricks at 360-397-6060 x7714. this class will be offered in several Acreages Applications are due by October 19, Washington and Idaho counties as Equipment & Facilities 2006. Please return your application to Gary Fredricks, Building C, Suite part of an expanding partnership Enterprise Budgets between Washington State University 100, 11104 NE 149th Street, Brush and the University of Idaho. This 12- Tools for Whole Farm Success Prairie, WA 98606. If you have any 14 week course combines classroom The cost of the 12-14 week course questions, contact Gary. and on-farm experience to give ranges from $125 - $200. Scholarships, WSU Announces the First students lessons in technical aspects college credit, and/or continuing LAMB 300 Short Course for All of farming along with practical education units will be available. Sheep Producers whole farm management skills. Guest Funding for Cultivating Success is speakers range from research scientists made possible by The USDA Risk Sarah M. Smith, Animal Sciences to local producers. Students will tour Management Agency, USDA SARE, and Faculty, WSU Grant-Adams Extension local farm and market operations, USDA Higher Education Challenge meet key community resource people, Grants. Washington State University Extension and build a network of resources and and Animal Science Departments, in connections. In addition to this, To sign up, contact: cooperation with the Washington State Sheep Producers Association learners explore internet resources Washington to provide critical production and (WSSP), announce the first WSU LAMB marketing information. Mason County, Kirsten Workman 300 short course October 5-7, 2006, at (360) 427-9670 the WSU Animal Science Department Kitsap County, Arno Bergstrom on the Pullman Campus. 360-337-7225 WSU LAMB 300 will be a three-day Jefferson County, Theresa Beaver hands-on workshop designed for (360) 379-5610 ext. 230 progressive individuals involved with the sheep industry. The course will King/Pierce County, Todd Murray focus on teaching producers (regardless (206) 205-3121 of the size or type of operation) how to Franklin County, Vicki Contini produce and market 509-545-3511 quality lamb and “This course was designed for Whatcom County, Colleen Burrows l a m b p r o d u c t s . beginning farmers and for current Participants Snohomish County, Mike Hackett producers who are interested in taking w i l l l e a r n h o w (425) 357-6017 their farm in a new direction,” said environmental, Marcy Ostrom of WSU’s statewide Skagit County, Don McMoran nutritional, genetic, Small Farms Team. As part of the 360-428-4270 and managerial factors contribute Cultivating Success Sustainable Small Idaho Farms education program, over 800 to meat quality. Latah County, Cinda Williams people have taken the course in several Participants will (208) 885-7499 locations throughout Washington also learn how and Idaho. For more details about Bannock County, Paula Jones meat quality factors the Cultivating Success Program and (208) 237-4628 influence the price Continued on next page 4 (2) Page 13 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest producers receive Parkinson’s Disease Risk in 2003, inspiring more than 25 for lamb and Linked with Pesticide markets in Hawaii, Georgia, Colorado, lamb products Exposure California and Oregon at Kaiser marketed Permanente hospitals. through various ATTRA. A study published in the July outlets. This issue of Annals of Neurology evidences Sustainability and Local Foods program will a link between pesticide exposure and - Conversations from the Field increase one’s understanding of Parkinson’s disease, reports Scientific American. The study, which included ATTRA. Josh Slotnick, a community lamb meat quality and marketing, farm director and sustainable enabling participants to make 143,000 men and women, found that those exposed to pesticides were agriculture educator at the University informed decisions to improve of Montana, discusses the importance profitability, competitiveness and 70 percent more likely to develop Parkinson’s than those who were not of local foods and sustainable wholesomeness of the food products agriculture in this interview. they are producing. The course will exposed. The pesticide exposures were feature nationally recognized speakers not necessarily occupational; low- Western Montana Growers in the area of lamb production and dose pesticide exposure such as from Develop ‘Homegrown’ Label marketing. home and garden use significantly increased risk. Lead study author ATTRA. A group of 12 organic farmers The registration fee of $150 per Alberto Ascherio of the Harvard in Western Montana developed a participant covers all meals, materials, School for Public Health commented, “Homegrown” label to certify that and parking arrangements. Hotel “I think this is one reason to be careful food is locally and sustainably raised, accommodations will be the about using pesticides in general.” according to an article on the New responsibility of the participants. West. Western Montana Sustainable Registration will be available on a first- Study Shows Potential Growers Union members sign a pledge pay, first-serve basis and limited to 32 Economic Payoffs Tied to to use sustainable practices and to participants. Registration forms must Healthy Eating market their products within a 150- be received by September 8, 2006 Leopold Center. Answering the mile radius. The label is designed to question, “Does five-a-day pay?” foster a closer relationship between For additional information, contact growers and their customers within Jan Busboom at 509-335-2880 or could mean a lot more to Iowans than eating five servings of fruit and the local community, in place of the Sarah M. Smith at 509-754-2011 x impersonal third-party certification of 413. vegetables every day. It could mean an additional $302 million in sales the National Organic Program. and more than 4,000 jobs added to Ontario Organic Cooperative the Iowa economy if just 25 percent Markets to Farmers Markets Warming Climate Plays Large of the extra fruit and vegetables are Role in Western U.S. Wildfires, Iowa grown. This article looks at the Quinte Scripps-led Study Shows Organic Farmers Cooperative’s first Churches Supporting Farmers A new study led by scientists at year efforts. Scripps Institution of Oceanography Five churches in Corvallis, OR More Farm Family Income at the University of California, San selling “That’s My Farmer” coupons Coming from Off-Farm Diego, implicates rising seasonal to encourage more sales for local Sources temperatures and the earlier spring farmers markets. For details about conditions with a dramatic increase of this “Congregational Supported ATTRA. The U.S. Department of large wildfires in the western United Agriculture,” see the weblog by Agriculture’s Economic Research States. Cathleen Hockman-Wert, author of Service shows farm family incomes Simply in Season. are keeping pace with non-farm households, but most of the income Promoting Good Health comes from off-farm sources. Economic The most systematic analysis to date by Bringing Farms to the Well-Being of Farm Households of recent changes in forest fire activity Workplace and Growing Farm Size and the compiled a database of large western AFT. Dr. Preston Maring of Kaiser Distribution of Farm Payments used wildfires since 1970 and compared it 2003 income statistics. The first report with climate and land-surface data Permanente Medical Center in Oakland, California, has launched a revealed that off-farm sources provide from the region. The results show 85 to 95 percent of income for farm that large wildfire activity increased movement to promote healthy eating by connecting Kaiser Permanente households. The statistics also showed “suddenly and dramatically” in the that large-scale farms, while they 1980s with longer wildfire seasons employees and patients with farmers who sell locally grown produce. represent only seven percent of farm and an increased number and more operations, are responsible for 70 potent wildfires. Maring started one of the nation’s first hospital-based farmers’ markets percent of total farm sales. Continued on next page 4 (2) Page 14 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest usage, best management practices, and present market conditions, as well A Social History of Wild as personal success stories, references, Huckleberry Harvesting in the resources, and a unique disease list. Pacific Northwest Managing Agricultural This report, by Rebecca T. Richards Landscapes for Environmental and Susan Alexander published by Quality Workshop the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station, draws on both The Soil and Water Conservation archival research and harvester/ Society has organized a workshop on producer interviews to explore environmental quality at the Westin the social, technological, and Crown Center Hotel in Kansas City, environmental changes that created Missouri from October 11-13, 2006. The primary objective is to bring together individuals in the technical and scientific communities who are working to quantify the environmental grower. This bulletin will help answer benefits of conservation practices on questions about new crops that have agricultural land at landscape and/or the potential to be profitable. watershed scales. New Organic Dairy Farming Farmers Market Resource Book Available Guide Organic Dairy Farming: A Resource for T h i s g u i d e , Farmers provides an excellent resource from the USDA for new and transitioning organic Agricultural dairy farmers, as well as agricultural Marketing professionals. Service, the commercial industry in the Pacific l i s t s g r a n t s , Report Offers State-by-State Northwest in the 1920s and led to programs, and Picture of Agriculture other financial its decline after World War II. The ATTRA. A new report from the and information reemergence of the commercial wild Center for Food Safety offers a state- resources huckleberry industry in the mid-1980s by-state portrait of agriculture in the available and national forest management issues United States. A New View of U.S. f r o m p u b l i c related to the industry are presented Agriculture includes a list of the top a n d p r i v a t e along with potential strategies land five agricultural commodities for organizations. It managers could develop to ensure each state by percentage and value, also provides details about over 100 wild huckleberry, wildlife, and cultural the value of total organic sales in projects and grants available to help sustainability. the state and the state’s organic sales start or improve farmers markets. Growing and Marketing ranking, and a description of any state Ginseng, Goldenseal and National Agroforestry Center legislation or regulations regarding Other Woodland Medicinals Updates Website genetically modified organisms. This book covers recommended The USDA’s National Agroforestry White Paper on Organic methods of growing and marketing Center just released an updated Farming Research Leadership website. New features include and an ginseng, goldenseal, ramps, black An important new White Paper on image gallery dedicated to agroforestry cohosh, bethroot, organic farming research leadership in the United States and an NAC bloodroot, blue has been written for the USDA blog that covers agroforestry related c o h o s h , f a l s e Cooperative State Research, Education news and issues. The online gallery unicorn, galax, and Extension Service (CSREES) provides high quality images in various mayapple, by the recent and current CSREES resolutions for anyone interested in pinkroot, Interim Program Leaders for Organic promoting agroforestry. spikenard, wild Agriculture, Jim Kotcon and Dawn g i n g e r , w i l d Thilmany. The paper is intended to indigo, and other New Alternative Fruit Crops for Western Washington help USDA-CSREES determine how native woodland best to meet the needs for organic medicinals. It Many of the alternative fruit crops research, education and Extension. a l s o i n c l u d e s presented in this bulletin were initially plant botany and tested for suitability to the home Continued on next page
4 (2) Page 15 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest The paper first summarizes the growth food, alternative or “organic” food, University of California in demand for organic products, the and food people obtain by hunting, Releases Study on Organic historical deficit of attention by USDA gathering, or gardening. Look at No Beef Operation research agencies, and the specialized Bar Code, an excerpt from Pollan’s nature of organic research, education book found in Mother Jones. ATTRA. In what may be the first and Extension needs. study of its kind, the University Publication Considers Habitat of California has released results The paper also describes the way in Agricultural Landscapes of an intensive examination of an organic agriculture relates to the organic beef production operation. Strategic Goals of CSREES. The need ATTRA. Through The Biodiversity Management practices, revenues, for CSREES leadership in organic Partnership, the Defenders of costs, and marketing were studied farming is further explored in relation Wildlife offers a review of literature on a hypothetical 800-acre ranch to international competitiveness. on biodiversity status and trends on in Mendicino and Lake Counties With a brief overview of current USDA farmland. The publication, Habitat in running 50 cow-calf pairs. The study research agency activities, the paper Agricultural Landscapes: How Much Is by UC Davis investigates all aspects offers a series of goals and action items Enough? (3MB) provides a synthesis of a small-scale beef operation that for CSREES. of current understanding regarding has already transitioned to certified conservation of fish and wildlife organic status. The June Issue of the AgMRC habitat and biodiversity in agricultural Action landscapes, New Energy Estimator for and Nitrogen From the USDA This newsletter, published by the establishes a Agricultural Marketing Resource framework AFTA. This new tool helps farmers Center, targets producers, service for setting and ranchers identify cost savings providers and those interested in conservation through efficient nitrogen fertilizer. value-added agriculture. goals, policy, The energy estimator allows farmers Book Offers Solutions for and future Future of Family Farming research priorities. See The Next Agricultural Revolution: the executive Revitalizing Family-Based Agriculture summary and Rural Communities introduces f o r m o r e the reader to the Washington State details. and ranchers to estimate the cost of Farm Summit and its findings. nitrogen product use on their fields. The publication, edited by Dr. Report Shows Grazing Dairies All of the cost estimates are based Kent Mullinix, contains personal Succeeding in Wisconsin on management methods for the predominant crops within a particular testimonials from farmers across ATTRA. UW-Madison’s Center for the state of Washington about the state, and suggest using manure or Integrated Agricultural Systems compost instead of petroleum-based problems they face today and the (CIAS) and Program on Agricultural viable solutions they see. fertilizers, and management intensive Technology Studies (PATS) compares grazing practices. Switching to any The Omnivore’s Dilemma production systems, technology, single one of these options could labor, performance, and satisfaction potentially save up to $55 per acre. Michael Pollan’s new book shakes up with quality of life on grazing dairy America’s understanding of what and farms and more conventional dairy Online Journal Explores how we eat. Humans in the past have farms. Grazing in the Dairy State Medicinal Plants and had to learn what foods are safe, but says farmers using managed grazing Traditional Medicine today the omnivore’s dilemma takes make more money per cow and have the form of choosing between the less enterprise debt than other dairy AFTA. The non-profit, Trees for Life, plethora of choices at the modern farmers. “In general, dairy farmers launched a scientific online journal supermarket and fast food restaurants using managed grazing are a lot like focusing on scientific studies and where we must worry which of those other Wisconsin farmers in terms of traditional knowledge of medicinal tasty-looking choices might harm us. age, farm background and experience. and other beneficial plants. It is And we now face the issue that our However, they earn similar household intended to bring together formal and choices not only affect our health, but income with half the number of cows, informal medicinal plants and trees, also affect natural environment we have less debt and are more satisfied and also the herbal remedies that live in. This book explores these subtle with their overall quality of life,” said accompany these. The journal features dimensions of eating in America. report co-author Jennifer Taylor. international articles, small-scale field studies, and scientific evidence The Omnivore’s Dilemma looks at portraying natural remedies and three food chains: industrialized Continued on next page
4 (2) Page 16 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest plants that could benefit humanity. Informal writing, field experience, ideas for further study, and studies in progress are all possible topic areas to share through the journal. Report Identifies Best Labor Practices for Sustainable Agriculture ATTRA. As a means of promoting improved labor practices on sustainable farms, the California Institute for Rural Studies, with support from the Columbia Foundation, conducted case study research on 12 California farms with a reputation for positive workplace conditions. The findings reveal a broad range of positive workplace practices, which have resulted in a more satisfied and motivated workforce, and numerous benefits for growers, including increased retention, reduced training and supervision costs and increased No endorsement is intended revenues. The research also identifies of any businesses listed in this the workplace conditions that publication, nor is criticism of farmworkers most value, including unnamed businesses implied. many that are no- or low-cost, yet greatly contribute to farmworker satisfaction and motivation. Submitting articles: Submit articles electronically to Doug Stienbarger in MS Word or RTF formats. Photos and graphics are encouraged. Submit photos, graphics, and the original tables separately. Views: The views expressed in this newsletter reflect those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the sponsoring institutions.
4 (2) Page 17 Sustaining the Pacific Northwest