NESAWG
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Michael Pollan’s nine-step program
NEWS:
USDA promises more equitable Farm Bill
Farm policy proposal targets beginning farmers, value-added markets
Agriculture groups hope to reap benefits from new farm bill
Specialty crops seek share of federal farm programs
NY farmers, officials plot rural revival
NJ Farmers see growing market in ethnic vegetables
VT Legislature looks to save dairy farms
EVENTS:
2/1-3: Farming for the Future, State College, PA
2/6-7: West Virginia Agritourism Workshop, Flatwoods, WV
2/10: Connecticut Community Farming Conference, Madison, CT
2/10: Intro to Organic Beekeeping Workshop, Granville, NY
2/10: NOFA Vermont Annual Winter Conference, Randolph Center, VT
2/13: Rhode Island Local Food Forum, Providence, RI
2/14-15: Empire State Fruit and Vegetable Expo, Syracuse, NY
2/14-16: Understanding Organics: Livestock Management and Health, Alfred, NY
2/21-24: Mid-Atlantic Direct Marketing Conference, Solomons, MD
2/23-25: Sustainable Farming Conference: Standing on Common Ground, Mount Pleasant, PA
2/28-3/1: New England Farmers’ Direct Marketing Conference and Trade Show, Sturbridge, MA
2/28-3/2: National Grassfed Beef Conference, Harrisburg, PA
3/3: NOFA New Hampshire Winter Conference, Tilton, NH
3/6-8: Understanding Organics: Livestock Management and Health, Durham, NH
3/8-9: Whole Foods Market Northeast Region Local Grower & Supplier Seminar, Portland, ME
3/10: Organic Orcharding Workshop, Mount Vernon, Maine
3/10: Cultivating an Organic Connecticut Conference, Windsor, CT
3/16-19: National Farm to Cafeteria and Food Policy Conference,Baltimore, MD
3/16: Agriculture in the Hudson River Valley, Hudson, NY
3/29: Introduction to Organic Pasture Management, Grafton, MA
OPPORTUNITIES:
US Rural Policy Specialist, Oxfam America, Boston, MA
Two Americorps Volunteers, Cultivating Community, Portland, ME
Donor and Volunteer Relations Coordinator, Sustainable Harvest International, Surry, ME
AmeriCorps Anti-Hunger Team Member, The New York City Coalition Against Hunger, New York, NY
Grant Writer, City Harvest, New York, NY
Office Coordinator, The Federation of Massachusetts Farmers’ Markets, Waltham, MA
Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA
Multiple Job Openings, The Food Project, MA
Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY
National Research Initiative—Agricultural Prosperity for Small and Medium-Sized Farms
Pennsylvania Conservation Innovation Grants
Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program
Rural Business Opportunity Grants
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Michael Pollan’s nine-step program
Author Michael Pollan is at it again, being insightful that is. Not resting on his omnivorous laurels, Pollan has recently advanced the national food dialogue a bit further through his latest New York Times essay published this past Sunday. While the entire essay, all 3000 words of it, deserves reading, his list of nine recommendations for well-intentioned eaters is of particular interest. Here they are in short form:
1. Eat food. Don’t eat anything your great-great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food.
2. Avoid even those food products that come bearing health claims. They’re apt to be heavily processed, and the claims are often dubious at best.
3. Especially avoid food products containing ingredients that are a) unfamiliar, b) unpronounceable c) more than five in number — or that contain high-fructose corn syrup.
4. Get out of the supermarket whenever possible.
5. Pay more, eat less.
6. Eat mostly plants, especially leaves.
7. Eat more like the French. Or the Japanese. Or the Italians. Or the Greeks.
8. Cook. And if you can, plant a garden.
9. Eat like an omnivore.
To read the entire essay, please see: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/28/magazine/28nutritionism.t.html
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NEWS
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USDA promises more equitable Farm Bill
(Agriculture Online) – Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns rolled out a 2007 farm bill proposal today that he says was inspired by comments from farmers and ranchers at listening sessions in 48 states. The USDA farm bill would save $10 billion compared to spending under the 2002 farm bill. Yet it provides $5 billion more than if the current farm law was just extended for another 5 years. That’s partly because current high commodity prices would just be stretched out in a 10-year projection for budgeting purposes and would result in less money for an extended farm law. Full article here: http://tinyurl.com/34wczb
Farm policy proposal targets beginning farmers, value-added markets
(Agriculture Online) – A group of more than 350 farm, health and consumer organizations on Monday released a plan to support an overhaul of the federal farm program to address issues they say are left untouched by current legislation, including support for beginning farmers and those producers actively pursuing conservation measures. Spearheaded by the Farm and Food Policy Project (FFPP), Monday’s announcement included directors of such ag groups as the American Farmland Trust and Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. The report, entitled “Seeking Balance in U.S. Farm and Food Policy” is targeted at a broad range of food production and consumption outcomes, those most lacking under the current farm bill, said FFPP coordinator Allen Hance. Full article here: http://tinyurl.com/2ap533
Agriculture groups hope to reap benefits from new farm bill
(McClatchy Newspapers) – Hope springs eternal, or least every five years, for farm bill reformers such as Sacramento, Calif.-based activist Michael Harris. More money for minority farmers. Tighter limits on agribusiness subsidies. More conservation aid. Beefed-up urban food programs. In these areas and more, Harris and his allies believe Congress can get farm policy right this year.” This is an opportunity for all small farms, and specifically for black farmers,” Harris said. “We’re not going to just fight; we’re going to be part of the process.” On Monday, Harris joined the latest – but by no means final – farm bill coalition in unveiling a package of reform proposals. The alliance of family farm, environmental, labor and public health groups leans to the left; their political clout remains to be seen. The playing field, after all, is getting full. Full article here: http://columbiatribune.com/2007/Jan/20070125Busi011.asp
Specialty crops seek share of federal farm programs
(Western Farm Press) – A coalition of more than 80 specialty crop producer organizations nationwide is continuing its united effort in Congress to garner a significant chunk of the new 2007 farm bill. U.S. producers, handlers, processors, and retailers of fruit, vegetable, tree nut, and nursery crops represent 50 percent of American farm gate receipts worth $50 billion. They say they deserve the same type of federal support producers of commodity crops like cotton, rice, corn, soybeans and feed grains receive. Full article here:
http://westernfarmpress.com/news/013107-farm-programs/
NY farmers, officials plot rural revival
(Ithaca Journal – NY) – Debbie and Alan Teeter have a 180-acre farm south of Ithaca where they raise sheep and beef cattle. Last fall, the Teeters took their first steps into agritourism by offering a fall foliage hayride. They hoped to offer a unique experience to guests while supplementing their income. “We’ve talked about agritourism for years,” Debbie said. “We thought the hayride had a lot of potential, but we thought it was just too much on top of the work on the farm.” Full article here: http://www.theithacajournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070130/NEWS01/701300328/1002
NJ Farmers see growing market in ethnic vegetables
(AP) – NEW BRUNSWICK — Formisano Farms in South Jersey began growing ethnic vegetables more than 20 years ago, starting with the herb cilantro.
A staple in several ethnic communities, cilantro is on it’s way to becoming mainstream. It’s a key ingredient in salsa, which has surpassed ketchup sales, and now makes up 10 percent of the farm’s income. The explosion of immigrant populations is fueling the growth of ethnic vegetables like cilantro and bok choy, giving farmers new, and potentially more profitable, revenue streams to add to their American staples of corn, sweet peppers and tomatoes. They’ll have less competition for this narrow niche, crops that an ethnic population would have consumed in their home country, now growing in small quantities in the U.S. Full article here: http://tinyurl.com/22enx7
VT Legislature looks to save dairy farms
(AP) — Without another infusion of state aid, more dairy farmers reeling under the weight of low milk prices and rising costs may soon be forced out of business. So Vermont lawmakers are considering a bailout like the one offered to dairy farmers last summer. “We think the need is every bit as great as it was last July when the Emergency Board acted. In fact, it may be more critical now,” said Agriculture Committee Vice Chairman Al Perry, D-Richford. The Douglas administration, however, says it isn’t sure where the money would come from if the Legislature decided to expand on the emergency assistance it offered last year. Full article here: http://www.benningtonbanner.com/headlines/ci_5116472
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EVENTS
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2/1-3
Farming for the Future, State College, PA
The annual Farming for the Future conference is PASA’s signature event and their main vehicle for community building. Widely regarded as the best of its kind in the East, this diverse event brings together an audience of over 1,400 farmers, processors, consumers, students, environmentalists, and business and community leaders annually. Typical conference workshops focus on such practical topics as poultry production, cheese making, riparian buffers, organic certification and raw milk marketing. For more info, see: http://www.pasafarming.org/farmingForTheFuture.html
2/6-7
West Virginia Agritourism Workshop, Flatwoods, WV
This statewide educational workshop is designed for those already engaged in agritourism activities, those looking to add a tourism component to their current operation, and industry service personnel. For more info, see: http://www.wvagriculture.org/market_bulletin/Articles.htm
2/10
Connecticut Community Farming Conference, Madison, CT
The Community Farming Conference will connect three groups of people—the towns and land trusts with land, the community groups that want a local farm, and the farmers who need land and local markets. The conference is co-sponsored by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, CT NOFA and the Mercy Center.
For more info, see: http://www.ctnofa.org/events/CommunityFarming.php
2/10
Intro to Organic Beekeeping Workshop, Granville, NY
Learn about the basic requirements and responsibilities for first-time beekeepers. Understand the mechanics of a hive, the tools involved, elements of site selection, and an understanding of a naturalist approach to their needs. This is a hands-on workshop, which includes assembling a wooden hive. For more info, see: http://www.honeybeelives.org/classes.php
2/10
NOFA Vermont Annual Winter Conference, Randolph Center, VT
This one-day event brings together over several hundred organic farmers, gardeners, consumers and teachers for over 30 workshops, a keynote address, farmers’ market, live music, silent auction, children’s conference and the largest pot-luck lunch in New England. For more info, see: http://www.nofavt.org/annual-events/winter-conference.php
2/13
Rhode Island Local Food Forum, Providence, RI
This event hosted by Farm Fresh RI and Brown Dining Services offers a networking opportunity for farmers, restaurants and food service buyers. This year’s focus is on the “Value of Local”: how having locally grown on the menu creates regional branding and grows the local economy.For more info, see:
http://www.farmfreshri.org/learn/events.php?year=2007&month=2#66
2/14-15
Empire State Fruit and Vegetable Expo, Syracuse, NY
This annual event is sponsored by the NYS Vegetable Growers Association, the Empire State Potato Growers, the NYS Horticultural Society and the NYS Berry Growers and Cornell Cooperative Extension. Sessions on specific fruit and vegetable crops are offered, as well as a trade show. For more info, see: http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/hort/expo/
2/14-16
Understanding Organics: Livestock Management and Health, Alfred, NY
The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT), in partnership with Quality Milk Production Service of Cornell University, is pleased to announce a 3-day conference on Organic Livestock Health and Management designed to provide continuing education to extension agents, veterinarians, and other professionals working with Northeast organic or transitioning producers. This conference, and one that follows March 6-8 in Durham, NH, will focus on the comprehensive nuts and bolts of organic livestock production. For more info, see: http://www.qmps.vet.cornell.edu/nofa/nofa.html
2/23-25
Sustainable Farming Conference: Standing on Common Ground, Mount Pleasant, PA
Laurelville Mennonite Church Center hosts its annual sustainable farming conference, Farming with Values that Last, a gathering to inspire and equip those who grow food sustainably and those who support them by buying local, fresh, and wholesome food. “Standing on Common Ground” is the theme for this event at the intersection of Christian faith and innovative farming that builds farms, families and community. The weekend will feature singing, worship, Bible teaching, reflection, practical and inspirational workshops, and ample time for building relationships and hearing stories. The event invites each participant to learn more about sustainability and faith through how they farm, how they eat and how they create connections. For more info, see:
http://www.laurelville.org/01Program/Sustainable.html
2/21-24
Mid-Atlantic Direct Marketing Conference, Solomons, MD
The conference theme is “Lighting the Way,” and the agenda includes a trade show, workshops, seminars & farm market tours in Southern Maryland. For more info, see: http://www.madmc.com/
2/28-3/1
New England Farmers’ Direct Marketing Conference and Trade Show, Sturbridge, MA
“Successful Strategies for Growing Your Farm Business” is the theme for this unique marketing conference that targets New England farmers interested in learning new marketing ideas or fine-tuning strategies for business success. Over the course of two days, there will be over 20 workshops with a wide range of marketing and business planning topics to be covered, as well as a trade show. For more info, see: http://www.harvestnewengland.org/conference2007.htm
2/28-3/2
National Grassfed Beef Conference, Harrisburg, PA
“The Art and Science of Grass-Fed Production and Marketing” is the conference theme. Learn the latest in technology for grass-fed beef production from producers and experts around the world. Exchange ideas with producers and interact with scientists. For more info, see: http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=fb11f56f-5884-4d42-bd58-329d48a141fd
3/3
NOFA New Hampshire Winter Conference, Tilton, NH
This all-day conference, the fifth annual, features 28 workshops in 4 sessions, on food, farming, gardening, landscaping, sustainability and related topics, and will offer an organic potluck lunch, a Keynote, and a Market Fair. For more info, see: http://www.nofanh.org/calendar.html
3/6-8
Understanding Organics: Livestock Management and Health, Durham, NH
This comprehensive conference for veterinarians, Extension Educators and agri-service personnel is presented by the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT), in partnership with Quality Milk Production Services (QMPS) of Cornell University. This conference, funded in part through the Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program (NESARE), will focus on the comprehensive nuts and bolts of organic livestock production and will serve as the platform for future resources and trainings. For more info, see: http://www.qmps.vet.cornell.edu/nofa/nofa.html
3/8-9
Whole Foods Market Northeast Region Local Grower & Supplier Seminar,Portland, ME
Whole Foods is hosting this free seminar in efforts to find local vendors of high quality, organic and natural foods. Space is limited and potential participants must submit an application. Invitations and applications are available for download from the MOFGA Web site. For more info, see: http://www.mofga.org/tabid/417/Default.aspx
3/10
Organic Orcharding Workshop, Mount Vernon, Maine
Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association offers a series of three day-long organic orcharding workshops designed for beginner to intermediate orchardists managing backyard plantings to larger orchards. The first workshop covers pruning fruit trees and early spring orchard care. For more info, see: http://www.mofga.org/Default.aspx?tabid=300
3/10
Cultivating an Organic Connecticut Conference, Windsor, CT
Connecticut NOFA presents this conference featuring keynote speakers Nancy Jack Todd and John Todd, as well as more than 30 workshops and an organic marketplace. For more info, see: http://www.ctnofa.org/events/CaOC.php
3/16-19
National Farm to Cafeteria and Food Policy Conference, Baltimore, MD
This third national conference is titled “From Cafeterias to Capitol Hill: Growing Healthy Kids, Farms, and Communities.” Join hundreds of farm to cafeteria and food policy enthusiasts to share experiences, and get the latest, up-to-date info on institutional purchasing—on both the organizing and policy perspectives. A major focus of the conference will be issues related to the Farm Bill, including farm to cafeteria and beyond. For more info, see: http://foodsecurity.org/F2C_Food_Policy_Conf.html
3/16
Agriculture in the Hudson River Valley, Hudson, NY
This third biennial conference is titled “Success Stories from Our Own Backyard,” and focuses on farm profitability, farmland protection, and agricultural economic development. For more info, see: http://www.hvap.org/
3/29
Introduction to Organic Pasture Management, Grafton, MA
Organic dairy farmers and advisors will discuss organic rotational grazing systems, management intensive grazing systems, pasture fertility and soil health. Sponsored by NOFA/Mass and Baystate Organic Certifiers, with support from Organic Valley and Stonyfield Farm. Contact: Kate Rossiter, NOFA/Mass Organic Dairy Coordinator, at (413) 625-0118, or Don Franczyk, Baystate Organic Certifiers, at (978) 297-4171.For more info, see: http://www.nodpa.com/events.html
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OPPORTUNITIES
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US Rural Policy Specialist, Oxfam America, Boston, MA
The US Rural Policy Specialist will provide strategic analytical support to the US Regional Office with a focus on sustainable livelihoods and economic justice issues in vulnerable regions in rural America. A key function of the Specialist will be to provide policy analysis and options with regards to reform of US agricultural policy.
Last day to apply: March 20, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/207042-52
Two Americorps Volunteers, Cultivating Community, Portland, ME
We are seeking applications for two AmeriCorps member positions beginning spring 2007. The AmeriCorps positions are full-time (40+/- hours/week) 6 month positions running from approximately from April 30, 2007 to October 31, 2007 and reporting to the executive director. The AmeriCorps members will assist the program manager in educational programs, including our summer Youth Growers program and our school partnerships and the grower in all aspects of the growing process. At Cultivating Community all staff members work together closely. The AmeriCorps members will be expected to participate at staff meetings and take on responsibilities in organization initiatives outside of program development and delivery. Last day to apply: February 16, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/206728-187
Donor and Volunteer Relations Coordinator, Sustainable Harvest International, Surry, ME
Sustainable Harvest International seeks a new full time staff member to coordinate its relationships with donors and volunteers. The successful candidate will coordinate SHI’s development planning, budgeting and reporting by working closely with the President, other members of the staff and Board members. S/he will also coordinate donor management efforts and volunteer projects, as well as assisting with other development work as necessary. Last day to apply: February 15, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/206293-5
AmeriCorps Anti-Hunger Team Member, The New York City Coalition Against Hunger, New York, NY
The New York City Coalition Against Hunger, in partnership with Green Guerillas, is currently accepting applications for summer positions in the NYC Anti-Hunger Empowerment Corps. This is a perfect opportunity for college students interested in poverty, nutrition and environmental issues! Position responsibilities will include working with urban gardens, farmers’ markets and community supported agriculture (CSA) in low-income communities. Last day to apply: March 1, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/207872-68
Grant Writer, City Harvest, New York, NY
City Harvest’s mission is to end hunger in communities throughout New York City through food rescue and distribution, education, and other practical, innovative solutions. The Grant Writer will develop, write, and edit foundation, government, and corporate grant proposals and reports. The Grant Writer will collaborate with City Harvest’s staff to identify potential opportunities for funding and to manage grants that are received by City Harvest. This position reports to the Associate Director – Institutional Giving. Last day to apply: February 28, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/204262-229
Office Coordinator, The Federation of Massachusetts Farmers’ Markets, Waltham, MA
FMFM is looking for a organized individual to play a key role in the operations of a well-established, agriculturally-based non-profit organization. For a complete job description and to learn more about FMFM, visit our web site at www.massfarmersmarkets.org. This is a full-time, salaried position with health benefits. Last day to apply: February 12, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/203220-148
MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA
The Food Trust is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization improving the supply of affordable food and good nutrition in the mid-Atlantic region. The mission of The Food Trust is to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food. For more info, see: http://www.thefoodtrust.org/php/about/jobs.php
MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD PROJECT, MA
The Food Project operating from Lincoln and Roxbury Massachusetts is seeking to fill several full-time positions including “Major Gifts Officer”. For more info, see: http://www.thefoodproject.org/about/internal1.asp?ID=151
MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY
FoodChange (formerly known as the Community Food Resource Center) is dedicated to helping low-income New Yorkers gain and maintain access to nutritious food, income support and decent housing. For more info, see: http://www.foodchange.org/employment/employment.html
National Research Initiative—Agricultural Prosperity for Small and Medium-Sized Farms
The purpose of this program is to foster interdisciplinary studies to improve our understanding of the interactions between the economic and environmental components important to the long-term viability, competitiveness and efficiency of small and medium-sized farms. Institutions of higher education, local governments, and nonprofits are among those eligible to apply. Total program funding is $5 million, with awards up to $500,000 possible. Due date: February 14, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.csrees.usda.gov/fo/fundview.cfm?fonum=1200
Pennsylvania Conservation Innovation Grants
For Fiscal Year 2007, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Pennsylvania will dedicate money to fund a State component of the Conservation Innovation Grant. Projects may be farm-based, multi-county, small watershed, or Statewide in scope. The maximum amount per grant under the State CIG component will be $75,000. CIG will pay up to 50 percent of the cost of the proposed project and at least 50 percent of the total project cost must come from non-federal matching funds. Projects may deal with water quality, soil, air quality, or wildlife habitat issues. Due date: March 2, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/CIG.html
Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program
CSREES announces the availability of grant funds and requests applications for the Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program (CFPCGP) for fiscal year 2007 to support: (1) the development of Community Food Projects with a one-time infusion of federal dollars to make such projects self-sustaining; (2) projects that provide Training and Technical Assistance on a nationwide or regional basis to entities interested in developing new Community Food Projects or assisting current grantees; and (3) Planning Projects to assess the food security needs and plan long-term solutions to help ensure food security in communities. CSREES anticipates that the amount available for support of this program in FY 2007 will be approximately $4,600,000. A two-step process for applying for a CFPCGP grant is required in FY 2007. Eligible applicants must submit a 750-word Letter of Intent. Applicants of acceptable Letters of Intent will be invited to submit a full application. Due date: February 13, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.csrees.usda.gov/funding/rfas/community_food.html
Rural Business Opportunity Grants
The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS), an Agency within the Rural Development mission area, announces the availability of grants of up to $50,000 per application from the Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG) program for fiscal year (FY) 2007. The purpose of this grants program is to promote sustainable economic development in rural communities with exceptional needs. This is accomplished by making grants to pay costs of providing economic planning for rural communities, technical assistance for rural businesses, or training for rural entrepreneurs or economic development officials. To be eligible for a Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG) applicants must be a public body, nonprofit corporation, Indian tribe, or cooperative with members that are primarily rural residents. Due date: March 30, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/busp/rbog.htm