NESAWG

Potluck News: December 2007

2007-12-04T21:15:09Z

FARM BILL UPDATE

Senate Farm Bill: mark-up, set, no go...at least not yet

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Civic agriculture = sane housing

NEWS:

NY farming and climate change

Lorraine Merrill confirmed as new NH agriculture commissioner

Vermont state government to take own 'buy local' advice

Nourished by a life in cheese: Craft draws Northeast careerists out of offices

Environmental Group: Chesapeake Bay's health getting worse

NJ Company that recalled hamburger meat declares bankruptcy

Presidential candidates are steering clear of agriculture issues

Effort to limit junk food in schools faces hurdles

EVENTS:

12/11-13: New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference, Manchester, NH

12/22: Holiday Farmers’ Market, Dover, NH

1/15-17: Maine Agricultural Trades Show, Augusta, ME

1/18-19, 2008: Farming for Profit and Stewardship Conference, Hagerstown, MD

1/19: Vermont Grazing Conference, Randolph Center, VT

1/19: NOFA Massachusetts Winter Conference, Worcester, MA

1/25-27: NOFA-NY Winter Organic Farming and Gardening Conference, Saratoga Springs, NY

1/26: NOFA NJ Annual Winter Conference, New Brunswick, NJ

2/7-9: PASA Farming for the Future Conference, State College, PA

OPPORTUNITIES:

Managing Director for Operations and Finance, Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, Pocantico Hills, NY

Policy and Advocacy Coordinator, Hunger Action Network of New York State, New York City, NY

Farmstand Co-Manager, White Dog Community Enterprises, Philadelphia, PA

Executive Director, Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA), S. Deerfield, MA

Campaign Manager, The Humane Society of The United States, Gaithersburg, MD

Campaign Associate, Project Bread - The Walk for Hunger, Boston, MA

Multiple openings, Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston, MA

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

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FARM BILL UPDATE

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Senate Farm Bill: Mark-up, set, no go...at least not yet

(Sustainable Agriculture Coalition) - Negotiations picked up again last week following the two-week Thanksgiving recess as staff from Senate leadership and the Agriculture Committee leadership sorted through amendments in an attempt to reach an accord on a time agreement on the farm bill. No floor action is expected on the farm bill this week, but if agreement can be reached on how to proceed, the Farm Bill could be back on the floor next week. At this point this is by no means a certainty, but neither is it out of the question.

Any Farm Bill action in December will have to be squeezed into a tight schedule that will also include possible action on a short-term patch for the Alternative Minimum Tax, a Medicare bill to postpone increases in doctor fees, another go at expansion of the State Children's Health Insurance, the FY 08 Defense Authorization bill, a rewrite of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, the energy bill conference report (see below), and 11 appropriations bills (see below) likely to be combined into a single omnibus bill. With three weeks to go, that means, at best, the Farm Bill will see limited action.

What remains to be seen is whether the leadership might decide to allow the Farm Bill debate to begin, dispose of several major amendments, make some progress, and then halt action and come back to finish it up in late January or early February. That approach might well be best if the endgame is to get a final bill passed and signed into law during the first three months of next year. If, on the other hand, a decision is made to try to finish the whole bill in a couple of days in December by truncating the list of Farm Bill relevant amendments that can be offered down to just a handful, look for dissension to continue to reign and the process to, in all likelihood, fall apart.

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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Civic Agriculture = Sane Housing, by Nevin Cohen, printed in The Nation

Article excerpt: The seeds of true reform are being sown throughout the country, as consumers are forging closer connections to farmers and developing a deeper policy interest in agricultural issues. This affinity between consumers and farmers has even encouraged real estate developers to build communities that blend working farms into the suburban landscape. From Massachusetts to California, subdivisions that include farms have sprouted, countering conventional notions that farmers and homeowners don't mix. Incorporating small farms into residential developments provides multiple benefits to everyone living in the community, not to mention profits for the developers. Full article available here: http://www.thenation.com/doc/20071217/cohen

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NEWS

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NY farming and climate change

(Ithaca Journal) - Agriculture is one of the central pillars of New York state's economy, and as our climate changes, our whole agricultural system will change in response. Granted, one's first thought might be, “Well, warmer temperatures mean a longer growing season and think of all the cool things we can plant now!” This is true up to a point, but with warmer temperatures come new problems, new pests and losses of crops that can't adapt to heat. Full article available here: http://www.theithacajournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071128/LIFESTYLE08/711280311/1090

Lorraine Merrill confirmed as new NH agriculture commissioner

(Foster’s Daily Democrat) - On Wednesday, the Executive Council unanimously confirmed Gov. John Lynch's nomination of Lorraine Merrill of Stratham to serve as the state's next agriculture commissioner. Lynch nominated Merrill, who has over 30 years experience as a dairy farmer, last month. "Agriculture remains an important part of New Hampshire's economy and as an accomplished dairy farmer and agricultural writer, Lorraine Merrill knows firsthand the challenges facing New Hampshire farmers and the importance of agriculture here in the state of New Hampshire," Lynch said in a press release. Merrill has been a partner in Stuart Farm in Stratham since 1975.

Vermont state government to take own 'buy local' advice

The state has been pushing consumers to purchase food from Vermont growers for the last four years through its "Buy Local" campaign, and now it's looking for ways to take its own advice. According to a Nov. 1 report, the state exceeds its "Buy Local" standard of 10 percent of food dollars for state institutions going to local products, but state agencies believe they can do better. "The trend over the last few years is we're just trying to encourage consumers to buy local products. It helps the local economy and consumers know where the food comes from and support neighbors," said Anson Tebbetts, deputy secretary of agriculture. "Step two is to encourage bigger buyers, like institutions – colleges, state government – to work closely with farmers." Full article available here: http://www.timesargus.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071111/NEWS02/711110384/1003/NEWS02

Nourished by a life in cheese: Craft draws NORTHEAST careerists out of offices

(Boston Globe) - At the age of 48, Bob Works came to an enviable life junction. The real estate investment firm where he was partner went public, and his payout was sizable. He could have stayed with the firm, managing properties such as One Winthrop Square and State Street Bank building in Boston, or not worked another day of his life. Instead, he and his wife apprenticed at a cheese-making farm. Nine years later, they have their own farm and turn out 6,000 pounds annually of a Pyrenees-style cheese that is sold at niche markets such as the Concord Cheese Shop and South End Formaggio. "We didn't want a dissipated life of playing golf and drinking too much," Works said. "We wanted real careers. We wanted to reinvent ourselves." The Works are part of a growing group of established careerists who are stepping off their professional ladders to learn such skills as tending goats and decanting whey. Some had never so much as milked an animal, and many were solidly urban creatures with only romantic notions of one day working the land. Now, they are crowding into cheese-making schools. Full article available here: http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2007/11/27/nourished_by_a_life_in_cheese/?p1=MEWell_Pos4

Environmental Group: Chesapeake Bay's health getting worse

(WJZ) - The Chesapeake Bay's health is going from bad to worse. That's according to an environmental group that gives bay health a D grade for the ninth consecutive year Monday. "The state of the bay is worse this year than last. We saw no improvement in any of the 13 health indicators and three of them declined," said Will Baker, Chesapeake Bay Foundation. In the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's annual report card on the bay health, the grade averages out to a grade of "D." The lowest scores remain in three key areas. "That was phosphorus, crabs and water clarity. So those are what drove the score down," said Beth McGee, CBF scientist. This year's report found a decline in Maryland's biggest fishery. It's believed this year's crab harvests will be the lowest since the 1940s. Full article available here: http://wjz.com/seenon/report.Chesapeake.bay.2.600818.html

NJ Company that recalled hamburger meat declares bankruptcy

(New York Times) - The Topps Meat Company of Elizabeth, N.J., which nearly two months ago recalled 21.7 million pounds of hamburger meat, has declared bankruptcy, according to papers filed on Wednesday in federal bankruptcy court in Newark. In the filing, Topps said the “severe economic impact of the recall” forced it to cease operations. Topps shut its doors and laid off most of its employees on Oct. 5, a week after issuing one of the largest beef recalls ever. Federal and state health officials found at least three types of the O157:H7 strain of E. coli bacteria in the plant. At least 40 people in eight states were sickened by the contamination, which raised questions about the effectiveness of inspections by the federal Agriculture Department. The agency was also scrutinized for a delay of several weeks in requesting the recall after tests showed that meat sold by Topps was linked to illness from E. coli. Federal investigators said the company failed to require adequate testing of raw beef it had bought from domestic suppliers, and it sometimes mixed tested and untested meat in its grinding machines. The probable source of the E. coli contamination was Rancher’s Beef Ltd., a supplier of Topps based in Alberta, Canada, according to the Agriculture Department. The Topps case is the most serious of 16 recalls this year involving E. coli contamination of beef. Full article available here: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/24/nyregion/24topps.html

Presidential Candidates Are Steering Clear of Agriculture Issues

(Congressional Quarterly) - Of all the places in the nation, Iowa might seem the likeliest place for presidential candidates to talk about their agriculture platforms. But for the most part, Republicans and Democrats running for office have steered clear of farm policy in the Hawkeye state, even after the $286 billion farm bill (HR 2419) stalled in the Senate, making it possible leadership will revisit the bill in 2008 if the logjam is not removed. When farming has come up on the campaign trail, candidates have talked about ethanol — a topic that goes over well with Iowa corn growers — but most have avoided going into great detail about farm subsidies, conservation and other agriculture-related programs. In part, candidates are keeping a lid on farming rhetoric because it’s still possible that the Senate will pass its version of the measure before the end of 2007, making agriculture a moot point next year, say lobbyists and political analysts. But that’s not the only reason some candidates might be avoiding the subject. Most agriculture issues are regional, so farm policy can be treacherous terrain for someone trying to win votes all over the country. A farming platform that gets high marks in one state could scare off growers in another, according to Chris Peterson, president of the Iowa Farmers Union. “I think they’re scared to death to really go into this,” he said. Full article available here: http://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?parm1=5&docID=news-000002634906

Effort to Limit Junk Food in Schools Faces Hurdles

(New York Times) - Federal lawmakers are considering the broadest effort ever to limit what children eat: a national ban on selling candy, sugary soda and salty, fatty food in school snack bars, vending machines and à la carte cafeteria lines. Whether the measure, an amendment to the farm bill, can survive the convoluted politics that have bogged down that legislation in the Senate is one issue. Whether it can survive the battle among factions in the fight to improve school food is another. Senator Tom Harkin, Democrat of Iowa and the chairman of the Agriculture Committee, has twice introduced bills to deal with foods other than the standard school lunch, which is regulated by Department of Agriculture. Several lawmakers and advocates for changes in school food believe that an amendment to the $286 billion farm bill is the best chance to get control of the mountain of high-calorie snacks and sodas available to schoolchildren. Even if the farm bill does not pass, Mr. Harkin and Senator Lisa Murkowski, Republican of Alaska, a sponsor of the amendment, vow to keep reintroducing it in other forms until it sticks. Full article available here: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/02/us/02school.html

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EVENTS

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12/11-13

New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference, Manchester, NH

New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference and Trade Show will include 27 educational sessions over 3 days, covering major vegetable, berry and tree fruit crops as well as various special topics. A Farmer to Farmer meeting after each morning and afternoon session will bring speakers and farmers together for informal, in-depth discussion. This conference is special because it is put together with close collaboration between growers and Extension from across the region. For more info, see: http://www.nevbc.org/

12/22

Holiday Farmers’ Market, Dover, NH

Set your table with local food! Over 20 vendors with be at the Holiday Farmers' Markets, at the McIntosh Atlantic Culinary Academy at 181 Silver Street in Dover NH (exit 8e off the Spaulding Turnpike) from 9am - 2pm on Saturday December 22nd. Sponsored by McIntosh Atlantic Culinary Academy and Seacoast Eat Local. For more info, see: www.seacoasteatlocal.org/holidaymarkets

1/15-17

Maine Agricultural Trades Show, Augusta, ME

Visit over 100 exhibit booths to find out what's new, and attend seminars and meetings held by various organizations to learn about the latest developments in the ag arena. For more info, see: http://www.getrealgetmaine.com/visit/trades_show.html

1/18-19, 2008

Farming for Profit and Stewardship Conference, Hagerstown, MD

The most comprehensive annual sustainable agriculture educational event in the mid-Atlantic region features keynote speaker Cynthia Barstow, pre-conference intensive workshops, and conference sessions led by the area’s best researchers, extension experts and experienced farmers. Topics include high tunnel production, small-scale equipment, honey production, marketing, and many more. For more info, see: http://www.futureharvestcasa.org/08conference.html

1/19

Vermont Grazing Conference, Randolph Center, VT

The 12th Annual Vermont Grazing Conference will feature Missouri grazier Greg Judy as keynote speaker. The schedule includes themed tracks for dairy, meat, poultry, diversified farming, animal management, soil and forages, consumer interests, and grazing partnerships. The conference is co-organized by the Vermont Grass Farmers Association and the UVM Center for Sustainable Agriculture. For more info, see: http://www.uvm.edu/~pasture/?Page=conference2008.html

1/19

NOFA MASS Winter Conference, Worcester, MA

45 workshops on crops, gardening, farm management, sustainable lifestyles, organic land care, livestock, renewable energy and more! For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org/conferences/w2008/index.php

1/25-27

NOFA NY Winter Organic Farming and Gardening Conference, Saratoga Springs, NY

"Organic Solutions" is the theme for this conference that includes workshops, a trade show and organic marketplace, and keynote speakers. Full-day and half-day intensive workshops are offered. For more info, see:

http://www.nofany.org/events/2008conference/nofanyconference08.htm

1/26

NOFA NJ Annual Winter Conference, New Brunswick, NJ

Held every year for almost two decades, NOFA-NJ’s Winter Conference is the premier gathering for the organic & sustainable food, farming, gardening community in the state. With an impressive mix of sessions, topics will include vegetable rotations and soil health, ingredients for a great farmers market, why and how to buy local, pest-free fruits, composting, pruning, cut flowers, farm to school, cheese-making, pastured egg production, food preservation, and more! Whether you are a new or experienced farmer / gardener, land conservationist, market manager, chef, educator, or interested consumer, there is certain to be something for you. Conference fee: $55 / $40 for NOFA-NJ members. Local, organic lunch: $12. For full details, contact (609) 737-6848 For more info, see: http://www.nofanj.org/events.htm

2/7-9

PASA Farming for the Future Conference, State College, PA

This 17th annual conference presented by the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture has the theme "Ready to Go: Sharing the Sustainable Story." The schedule includes an extensive selection of workshops, speakers, pre-conference tracks, and a kids' conference. For more info, see: http://pasafarming.org/conference2008/

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OPPORTUNITIES

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Managing Director for Operations and Finance, Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, Pocantico Hills, NY

Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture is a farm, a kitchen, a classroom—an exhibit, a laboratory, a campus. The mission of this nonprofit, member-driven collaboration is to celebrate, teach and advance community-based food production and enjoyment, from farm to classroom to plate. Last day to apply: January 25, 2008 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/252407-30

Policy and Advocacy Coordinator, Hunger Action Network of New York State, New York City, NY

Hunger Action Network is seeking an energetic, organized and passionate individual to be our Policy and Advocacy Coordinator. Last day to apply: January 31, 2008 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/253490-192

Farmstand Co-Manager, White Dog Community Enterprises, Philadelphia, PA

The Farmstand Co-Manager will oversee the day-to-day operation and manage The Fair Food Farmstand, White Dog Community Enterprises’ retail location at the Reading Terminal Market. Located in the historic Reading Terminal Market, the Fair Food Farmstand carries a variety of fresh produce, meats, poultry, dairy, eggs and cheese from organic and sustainable farms throughout the southeast Pennsylvania region.Last day to apply: January 28, 2008 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/252608-57

Executive Director, Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA), S. Deerfield, MA

Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) is currently seeking candidates to fill a full-time Executive Director position. This position reports to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. Please send cover letter, resume and salary requirements to Jennifer@buylocalfood.com . Complete job description can be found at www.buylocalfood.com . Job will remain open until filled. Interviews will start January 2nd.

Campaign Manager, The Humane Society of The United States, Gaithersburg, MD

The Humane Society International, the international arm of The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), in Gaithersburg, Maryland, seeks a Campaign/Outreach Manager to oversee and coordinate international animal protection campaigns. Last day to apply: December 18, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/247253-139

Campaign Associate, Project Bread - The Walk For Hunger, Boston, MA

The Campaign Associate is responsible for the recruitment and motivation of corporations and community organizations to participate in, and raise pledges for, the 2008 Walk for Hunger. Employment in this position begins January 14, 2008 and ends June 6, 2008. Campaign Associates report to the Campaign Coordinator and work as part of the campaign team. Last day to apply: December 28, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/248575-280

Multiple openings, Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston, MA

The Greater Boston Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief organization in New England, and one of the largest food banks in the country, distributing more than 25 million pounds of food annually to a network of more than 600 member hunger-relief agencies. For more info, see: http://www.gbfb.org/content/main.cfm?sca_id=27&cu_id=12

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, 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

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

The goal of the Farmer grant program is to develop, refine, and demonstrate new sustainable techniques and to explore innovative ideas developed by farmers across the region. To apply, you must be a farmer in the Northeast SARE region, made up of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Grants average about $5,200, and are capped at $10,000. Due date: December 18, 2007 http://www.uvm.edu/~nesare/FGinfo.html

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Potluck is a monthly e-newsletter sponsored by the Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Working Group (NESAWG) and is supported in part by the Lawson Valentine Foundation and the Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation. It is distributed via NEFOOD-L, the listserv for sustainable food systems in the Northeast generously hosted by Tufts University. In case you know of someone who you think would be interested in receiving Potluck, please invite them to subscribe to NEFOOD-L by going here: https://elist.tufts.edu/wws/info/nefood

Help build a better Farm Bill...in 5 minutes or less

2007-11-13T15:21:55Z

Send a message to your representatives in Congress that you want a better Farm Bill. Our entire Northeast Congressional delegation must hear from all of us now! The message is clear: we want a Farm Bill for the Northeast that fosters healthy, local food, protects the environment, and provides equitable access to agriculture programs. Our 24 Senators and 100 Representatives constitute a powerful block. Their votes will shape the next Farm Bill. One click allows you to send letters to your representatives in Congress. You simply enter your name and address, and the message is automatically sent to your Representative and Senator. Visit www.healthyfarmbill.org. You'll see the text of the message -- it reflects Northeast priorities, yet it does not lobby for any specific bill or proposal. This website is sponsored by the Farm and Food Policy Project (FFPP). For more information on the Farm Bill, please see our Farm Bill resource page.

Potluck News: November 2007

2007-10-31T20:47:31Z

FARM BILL UPDATE

Senate Farm Bill: Mark-up, set, go!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Seeds of a Better Farm Bill

NEWS:

Alternative Farm Bill seeks to bolster specialty crops

Dairy farmer picked for New Hampshire's new agriculture chief

Massachusetts cranberry growers look to strengthen industry

Vermont's Agriculture leaders see hope for dairy in Senate Farm Bill

Pennsylvania bans milk labels saying cows not treated with artificial growth hormones

New study finds that organic foods are healthier

Connecticut’s suburban farms seek new ways to stay fertile

EVENTS:

11/3: NOFA CT’s organic harvest celebration & annual meeting, New Haven, CT

11/12-14: Albrecht methods with Neal Kinsey, Lancaster, PA

11/15-16: Northeast Dairy Women's Conference, Latham-Albany, NY

12/1: “Good Food Now” summit, New York, NY

12/11-13: New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference, Manchester, NH

OPPORTUNITIES:

Membership Assistant, Slow Food, Brooklyn, NY

Campaign Manager, The Humane Society of The United States, Gaithersburg, MD

Campaign Associate, Project Bread - The Walk for Hunger, Boston, MA

Marketing and Public Relations Director, Organic Trade Association, Greenfield, MA

Compost Project Instructor, Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing, NY

Multiple openings, Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston, MA

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program

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FARM BILL UPDATE

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Senate Farm Bill: Mark-UP, Set, GO!

Last week, the Senate Agriculture Committee marked up the Senate Farm Bill, known officially as the Food and Energy Security Act of 2007. Reviews of the Bill have been mixed. The Sustainable Agriculture Coalition released a press statement describing it as offering "real gains but no real reform." Other groups including American Farmland Trust are more bullish on the Senate Bill’s reform elements. They cite the new Average Crop Revenue (ACR) program contained in the Bill as “an innovative and forward looking proposal that fundamentally changes the way commodity subsidies operate”.

Now that the Senate Agriculture Committee has done its work, the Bill will go to the Senate floor for a vote where additional amendments are possible. As the NYT op-ed below points out, many in the sustainable agriculture community are calling on Senate leaders to use the floor debate to right the Senate Bill’s wrongs and fill in the gaps before the next stage of the process known as “conference” when the two Farm Bills, House and Senate, will be negotiated into one.

Links to more info on the Senate Farm Bill:

The Chairman's Mark and amendments introduced in Committee are posted on the Committee website. A video archive of the entire markup is also posted on the same website.

http://agriculture.senate.gov/.

Podcast with American Farmland Trust’s President, Ralph Grossi, on the Senate Ag Committee’s Farm Bill and what he sees in the future for the 2007 Farm Bill.

http://www.farmland.org/news/audiovideo/documents/RG_Podcast.mp4

The Sustainable Agriculture Coalition’s press release on the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Farm Bill:

http://www.sustainableagriculturecoalition.org/pdf/PR_Senate_Agriculture_Committee_Farm_Bill.pdf

Other Farm Bill analysis:

http://www.farmpolicy.com/

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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Seeds of a Better Farm Bill – by Brian Halweil of the Worldwatch Institute and Glenda Neff of Environmental Defense

(The New York Times) – Whether you're a farmer or, more likely, just someone who eats food, you should be disappointed with the farm bill, the five-year, multibillion-dollar piece of legislation being debated in the Senate. Luckily for New Yorkers, our best hope of salvaging it may lie with our state senator, Charles Schumer. The farm bill should be the government's best effort to guide how American farmers grow food and how we all eat. Instead this anachronistic piece of legislation rewards a minority of Midwestern farmers and the commodity giants that buy from them. According to United States Department of Agriculture data, just 10 percent of all farmers, almost entirely in the center of the country, collect 62 percent of the taxpayer dollars. The majority of farmers, including those here in New York, don't receive any subsidies because they grow fruits and vegetables, not the corn, wheat, soy, rice and cotton supported by the bill. As a member of the majority's leadership team, Senator Schumer is in a unique position to change these geographically skewed handouts, particularly direct payments, which are subsidies farmers get regardless of crop prices. These payments represent $26 billion over the life of the bill and could be turned toward neglected nutrition and health programs, conservation and farmland preservation efforts and financial assistance for beginning farmers all over the country. (Last spring, Senator Schumer took the lead in calling for a better farm bill by introducing legislation that would increase financing for these sorts of programs. But his bill did not include a mechanism to pay for these increases, a crucial component under Congress's pay-as-you-go rules.). Read the full op-ed here: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/28/opinion/nyregionopinions/28CIhalweil.html

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NEWS

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Alternative Farm Bill seeks to bolster specialty crops

(Gannett News) - As the Senate prepares to debate a $288 billion farm bill, a New Jersey lawmaker has offered an alternative measure aimed at increasing federal help to Garden State growers and saving taxpayers $20 billion over the next five years. Sens. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., and Richard Lugar, R-Ind., seek to eliminate, not just reduce, the sacred cow of farm policy -- agricultural subsidies for commodity crops like corn, soybeans, cotton and wheat over the next five years. Instead, their bill proposes a crop-loss insurance program for all farmers that guarantees they will recoup up to 85 percent of their lost harvests. "Our bill is intended to help every farmer in America, not just those who grow a select few crops," Lautenberg said Tuesday before introducing the legislation. New Jersey "farmers are being hurt several ways. ... We get one-tenth of 1 percent of the subsidies. Our farmers are looking for help. Temptations are enormous for them to turn (farms) over to builders and developers." Read the full article here: http://www.thedailyjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071026/NEWS01/710260331/1002

Dairy farmer picked for New Hampshire's new agriculture chief

(Concord Monitor) - Gov. John Lynch has tapped a Stratham dairy farmer and freelance writer to replace longtime Agriculture Commissioner Steve Taylor. Lorraine Stuart Merrill needs Executive Council approval before assuming the position. Lynch will officially nominate Merrill at today's council meeting, and councilors will likely vote on the nomination at their next meeting, which is scheduled for late November. "I think it's an exciting time in agriculture in the state," Merrill, 56, said by phone yesterday. "There's greatly increased interest in local food and in seeing the value in local farms and agriculture." Merrill also tipped her hat to Taylor, "who I just think has been an icon for the state," she said. "That will be a challenge, following in those footsteps." Read the full article here: http://www.concordmonitor.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071031/FRONTPAGE/710310304

Massachusetts cranberry growers look to strengthen industry

(Boston Globe) - The future of the state's cranberry industry just may lie on a checkerboard in the center of the Cranberry Station bog in Wareham. It's not a real checkerboard - although that's the name it goes by - but a 3-acre rectangle of evenly divided plots, each 36 by 80 feet, with experimental high-yield vines bearing such names as Crimson Queen, Ben Lear, and Early Blacks. Each plot is a new variety that, growers hope, holds the key to productive, prosperous, future harvests - enough to keep Massachusetts second only to Wisconsin in cranberry production. The unveiling of the new varieties comes as the outlook dims for this year's harvest, now underway. Read the full article here: http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2007/10/18/planting_for_the_future/?page=1

Vermont's Agriculture leaders see hope for dairy in Senate Farm Bill

(Vermont Public Radio) - Vermont agriculture leaders say the Senate version of the national farm bill would benefit dairy farmers the next time there's a downturn in milk prices. The Senate Agriculture Committee has nearly completed drafting its version of the bill, which updates national farm policy every five years. Senators have proposed expanding the dairy pricing program known as the ``Milk Income Loss Contract.'' That's designed to protect farmers if the price they're paid for milk dips. Two years ago, the formula was changed, reducing how much farmers could be paid during a slump. The Senate proposal would raise the payments so they more closely match what it costs to produce milk. Read the full article here: http://www.vpr.net/news_detail/77912/

PENNSYLVaNIA bans milk labels saying cows not treated with artificial growth hormones

(Philadelphia Inquirer) - The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is putting the kibosh on the increasingly popular milk labels that say dairy cows were not treated with artificial growth hormones. The move surprised Wawa Inc., which just last week joined the rush of retailers and milk processors that say their milk will not be produced with the aid of artificial growth hormones, which are used to boost production. "Early on, we've had some positive feedback," Wawa spokeswoman Lori Bruce said today. "We think that consumers want to know." Wawa's label says that the farmers it buys raw milk from have pledged not to use rBST, or recombinant bovine somatotropin. The label includes notice that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found no significant difference between milk from treated and untreated cows. The state change in labeling guidelines, which blindsided many in the industry, is part of a broader effort by the Pennsylvania agriculture department to crack down on labels that highlight what is not in a product, such as "antibiotic-free" and "pesticide-free." Read the full article here: http://www.philly.com/philly/business/breaking/20071024_Pa__bans_milk_labels_saying_cows_not_treated_with_artificial_growth_hormones.html

New study finds that organic foods are healthier

(The Guardian) - Some organic foods, including fruit, vegetables and milk, may be more nutritious than non-organic produce, according to an investigation by British scientists. Early results from a £12m study showed that organic fruit and vegetables contained up to 40% more antioxidants than non-organic varieties, according to Professor Carlo Leifert at Newcastle University, who leads the EU-funded Quality Low Input Food project. Larger differences were found in milk, with organic varieties containing more than 60% more antioxidants and healthy fatty acids, he said. Read the full article here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2007/oct/29/organics.sciencenews

Connecticut’s suburban farms seek new ways to stay fertile

(New Haven Register) - With muddy boots and dirt caked on his fingers, Tom Pinchbeck knows his way around a greenhouse. Pinchbeck Roses on the Boston Post Road has been in his family for four generations, after his great-grandfather founded the business in 1929. As the chairman of the Guilford Agricultural Commission, Pinchbeck also knows many of the ins and outs of the town’s farming regulations. The commission has been meeting for a little more than a year on ways to encourage and protect agriculture in the town. After a group of farmers and other residents formed a steering committee, the Board of Selectmen established the state’s first municipal agricultural commission in August 2006. Commissioners and farm owners said the group has made progress so far, but still has its work cut out for it in a town where residential development may threaten agricultural practices. Read the full article here: http://www.nhregister.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18963481&BRD=1281&PAG=461&dept_id=31007&rfi=6

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EVENTS

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11/3

NOFA CT, Organic Harvest Celebration & Annual Meeting, New Haven, CT

Events include an Organic farmers market and displays, Potluck meal, Annual meeting, a food for thought talk by Billie Best, and presentation of the NOFA CT Member of the Year award. For more info, see: http://www.ctnofa.org/events/annual%20meeting/2007%20annual%20meeting.html

11/12-14

Albrecht Methods with Neal Kinsey, Lancaster, PA

PASA is pleased to present this 3-day intensive learning program that will give you the opportunity to deepen your understanding of your farm's most precious resource: soil. From the basics of using and interpreting a soil test to learning to identify the effects of depleted or excessive nutrients in your soil, the lessons you learn here could change the way you farm. For more info, see: http://www.pasafarming.org/programs/2007-albrecht-methods.html

11/15-16

Northeast Dairy Women's Conference, Latham-Albany, NY

This event is being hosted by the Northeast Dairy Leadership Team to bring together women dairy leaders in the Northeast to grow, learn and network. For more info, see:

http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/cde/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=135117

12/1

Good Food Now! New York, NY

Please mark your calendars for Just Food's Regional Summit on Food, Farmers and Community Health at The New School. This event will be organized in conjunction with NESAWG’s Annual Meeting and Resource Harvest. Stay tuned to NEFOOD for more info on these exciting events. For more info, see: http://www.justfood.org/summit/index.html

12/11-13

New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference, Manchester, NH

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OPPORTUNITIES

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Membership Assistant, Slow Food, Brooklyn, NY

Slow Food USA is a non-profit, eco-gastronomic organization with 170 convivia (chapters) and 15,000 members nationwide. Slow Food USA National Office is the hub of activity for the national movement, with 8 full-time and 3 part-time staff members. This position holds primary responsibility for accurate member and donor records while supporting the needs of a robust membership and fundraising program for Slow Food USA. Last day to apply: November 30, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/248557-307

Campaign Manager, The Humane Society of The United States, Gaithersburg, MD

Campaign Associate, Project Bread - The Walk For Hunger, Boston, MA

Marketing and Public Relations Director, Organic Trade Association, Greenfield, MA

The Organic Trade Association (OTA) seeks to fill the position of Marketing and Public Relations Director. The Director will manage a team of in-house and contracted public relations, communications, advertising, and marketing professionals. OTA promotes and educates consumers and opinion leaders about organic products throughout the United States and Canada, and also seeks to promote the benefits and programs of OTA to its members and potential members. Last day to apply: November 24, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/243342-332

Compost Project Instructor, Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing, NY

Queens Compost Project is an exciting and creative outreach program for Queens residents intended to encourage organic waste reduction through composting and an understanding of nature’s way of recycling. Under the management of QBG’s education department and part of a city-wide initiative funded by the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSny), this program’s goals include community outreach, on-site workshops and demonstrations, teacher training, master composter certification, special pilot projects, and special promotions.Last day to apply: November 16, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/241984-315

Multiple openings, Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston, MA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY

CONNECTICUT AGRICULTURE VIABILITY GRANT

The Agriculture Viability Grants Program (AVGP) encompasses two separate grants. The first grant is called the Farm Transition Grant. Producers, non-profits, and agriculture cooperatives may apply for this grant and may receive up to $50,000 matching. Non-profits who apply may use in-kind services as their match. The second grant is called the Farm Viability Grant and may only be used by municipalities, regional planning agencies, and association of municipalities. Due date: November 16, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.ct.gov/doag/cwp/view.asp?a=1368&q=317242

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program

The Partnership Grant is for agricultural professionals who work directly with farmers—specifically Cooperative Extension, NRCS personnel, non-governmental organizations, and others operating in the farm community—who are interested in developing on-farm demonstration, research, or marketing projects related to sustainable agriculture. Proposals should be relevant to farming and sustainability issues in the northeast region, and should offer both research and outreach components so that results will be available to the wider farm community. Due date: December 4, 2007 http://www.uvm.edu/~nesare/PARTinfo.html

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Potluck News: October 2007

2007-10-01T14:15:07Z

FARM BILL UPDATE

As outside temps cool, action in the Senate heats up

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Let the East bloom again

NEWS:

Economic factors pushing surge in food imports: FDA

Agriculture Secretary Johanns resigns to seek Senate seat

Diners across the U.S. head to the farm

NJ farms took in $57.5 million from tourism

Prep schools revive agriculture programs

A Maine course for students

EVENTS:

10/4: Value added product workshop, Starksboro, VT

10/6: Nose to tail pork processing workshop, Unity, ME

10/12-13: How to create successful public markets, New York, NY

10/20: Just Food fall wine and foliage tour, New York, NY

10/27: Grass finished natural and organic beef and lamb, South Dartmouth, MA

10/29-30: Water and new topsoil for every farm: the Keyline Plan in practice, St. Albans, VT

11/3: NOFA CT’s organic harvest celebration & annual meeting, New Haven, CT

11/12-14: Albrecht methods with Neal Kinsey, Lancaster, PA

12/1: “Good Food Now” summit New York, NY

OPPORTUNITIES:

Marketing and Public Relations Director, Organic Trade Association, Greenfield, MA

Compost Project Instructor, Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing, NY

Multiple openings, Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston, MA

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

Grow-Off Show-Off Contest

Vermont Barn Grants

New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Grant

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

Maine Farms for the Future Program

Pennsylvania Agriculture and Rural Youth Grant Program

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program

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FARM BILL UPDATE

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As outside temps cool, action in the Senate heats up

(Sustainable Agriculture Coalition) - As of late Friday evening, it was still unclear whether the Senate Agriculture Committee will begin markup of the Farm Bill this week. Members met all week last week to negotiate a general agreement before going into markup, but their decisions rely in part on the outcome of the Senate Finance Committee's "Farm Bill Tax Bill" which will determine the levels of additional Farm Bill funding available to the Agriculture committee above the baseline. The Senate Finance Committee continues to hint they might conduct their markup this Wednesday, October 3. With the weeklong Columbus Day recess beginning next Saturday, October 6, that means the Senate Agriculture Committee could try to begin and perhaps finish their markup on Thursday and Friday or wait until they return from break. In the meanwhile, residents of NY, MA, and ME are being urged to continue putting pressure on Senators Schumer, Kerry, and Snowe (who serve on the Finance Committee) to vote for a tax bill that provides at least $10 billion in Farm Bill funding over the next 5 years.

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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Let the East Bloom Again

(The New York Times) - The United States faces two major security challenges this century. Both involve water. The increasing demand for water in the Western United States in an era of diminishing supply has put America’s highly efficient agricultural system in jeopardy. At the same time, our nation’s energy demands have led President Bush and Congressional leaders from both parties to call for more domestic production of biofuels like corn ethanol. Some agricultural experts fear that the country does not have enough water and land to both replace the declining agricultural production in the arid West and expand the production of biofuels. There is, however, a sustainable solution: a return to using the land and water of the East, which dominated agriculture in the United States into the 20th century. Until the middle of the 1900s, much of our country’s food and fiber was produced east of the Mississippi River. Maine led the nation in potato production in 1940, and New York wasn’t far behind. The South, including Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi, dominated cotton. Large amounts of corn were grown in almost every state for consumption by the local livestock and poultry. Regional vegetable markets, especially in the mid-Atlantic states, served the population centers of the East. Read the full op-ed here: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/22/opinion/22mcnider.html

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NEWS

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Economic factors pushing surge in food imports: FDA

(Reuters) - U.S. consumers, eager to save a few dollars, are contributing to the surge in imported food products, a top official at the Food and Drug Administration said on Thursday. "There are economic factors that are pushing" this growth in food imports, David Acheson, FDA's food safety czar, said at a conference on food policy. "The expectation is, I don't want to pay $5 for a head of lettuce. How are you going to deal with that? You import the food," he said. Although food imports are growing at 15 percent a year, FDA inspected about 1 percent of the goods under its purview in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2006. An estimated 15 percent of the U.S. food supply is imported. The FDA, which is in charge of 80 percent of the U.S. food supply, mostly fruits, vegetables and processed foods, has been criticized as being too passive in handling the growing surge of imports into the United States. Read the full article here: http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSN2739028720070928

Agriculture Secretary Johanns Resigns to Seek Senate Seat

(Environment News Service) - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns has resigned the Cabinet post he has held since January 2005 to return to his home state of Nebraska, where he is plans to seek a seat in the U.S. Senate. Deputy Agriculture Secretary Charles Conner will take over as acting secretary. Johanns leaves as a major farm bill is working its way through Congress, which happens every five years. The bill was approved in the House earlier this year, and now will be debated in the Senate. The current farm bill expires at the end of this month. Read the full article here: http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/sep2007/2007-09-20-091.asp

Diners Across the U.S. Head to the Farm

(AP) — Forget the maitre d' and imported caviar. Sophisticated diners are now tromping across muddy fields and braving mosquito bites to eat gourmet food at its very source. Outdoor dinners at family farms, popular on the West Coast for several years, are making their way east as part of a local food movement fueled by concerns about tainted food and a desire to eat vegetables grown nearby rather than halfway around the world. "The cruel irony is that this is the way everyone used to eat," said chef and restaurant owner Jonathan Rapp, a co-founder of Connecticut's Dinners at the Farm series. "Now it is special, and hopefully we're going to get to a point where it becomes ordinary again, where eating wholesome, locally grown delicious food is every day." Read the full article here: http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5izrj8anPoPFJKWGVG9FIQu3Dh5bgD8RUB6P80

NJ farms took in $57.5 million from tourism

(AP) - New Jersey farms don't just get money from acres of blueberries or cranberries. Indeed, in 2006, they pulled in $57.5 million from visitors who bought produce at farm stands, cut their own Christmas trees or went on haunted hay rides, according to a study released Monday by the state Department of Agriculture. Those activities and others are considered "agritourism," a tiny slice of New Jersey's $37 billion tourism industry, but one that officials have been trying to grow. Read the full article here: http://www.newsday.com/news/local/wire/newjersey/ny-bc-nj--promotingagritour0917sep17,0,7176993.story

Prep Schools Revive Agriculture Programs

(AP) — At St. Andrew's School, where chestnut trees tower over the Tudor-style buildings and crisply manicured grounds filmed for "Dead Poets Society," it's a safe bet few of the future Ivy Leaguers plan to become farmers. Yet on the edge of exclusive boarding school's campus, just beyond the tennis courts and soccer fields, sprout rows of green peas, sunflowers, zucchini and squash in a 2-acre organic garden tended by students. Well-kept plots such as this have popped up across the country as dozens of upper-crust prep schools have revived agricultural programs, driven by the trends toward chemical-free and locally grown produce. Faculty at some schools that haven't focused on agriculture in decades, if ever, now count farmers in their ranks, and the title "sustainability coordinator" is becoming common at schools that scrapped Future Farmers of America clubs long ago, if they ever had them at all. Read the full article here: http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hkxNwE-X8MtiVPpleNI7cF8kn3pA

A Maine course for students

(Morning Sentinel) - Holly Raye could not put her finger on it, but she knew something was different in her school lunch. The Nokomis High School junior had no idea that Wednesday's hot lunch was almost entirely locally produced, but Raye could see the difference in the potatoes, chicken and corn on her tray."It looks real," she said with a laugh. "We haven't eaten this kind of stuff before," added junior Hailey Peterson. Providing students with food they have not eaten before was precisely the idea behind Wednesday's Maine Harvest Lunch. Promoted by the Department of Education's Child Nutrition Services and local farm-to-school groups, public schools in the state were encouraged to offer as many Maine products as possible to their students for lunch. "It's a way for us to buy from local farmers as much as possible," said David Leighton, food service director for School Administrative District 48, which includes Nokomis High School. "It's a great program." Read the full article here: http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/4318436.html

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EVENTS

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10/4

Value Added Product Workshop, Starksboro, VT

NOFA Vermont offers this opportunity to tour Rockville Market Farm, a 108 acre organic vegetable farm where Eric and Keenann Rozendaal grow 15 acres of organic butternut squash. Come tour Eric and Keenann’s storage and processing room and talk with Dave Girard from the FSA to see how you might diversify your operation with value added technology. For more info, see: http://www.nofavt.org/event.php?e_id=965

10/6

Nose to Tail Pork Processing Workshop, Unity, ME

This workshop offered by Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association will cover all the basic techniques of humane slaughter, carcass preparation, breakdown of the major components, and demonstrations of sanitary fresh and preservative processing using the entire animal. For more info, see: http://www.mofga.org/Programs/Events/NosetoTail/tabid/773/Default.aspx

10/12-13

How to Create Successful Public Markets, New York, NY

Project for Public Spaces presents its acclaimed workshop on the four elements that make markets successful: the right mix of vendors and products; a strong sense of place; solid economic and operational underpinnings; and a firm commitment to the surrounding community. The course includes workshops and on-site tours of markets. For more info, see: http://www.pps.org/training/info/markets_training_course

10/20

Just Food Fall Wine and Foliage Tour, New York, NY

This tour, celebrating local vintners and benefiting the programs of Just Food, will give participants the opportunity to learn more about the amazing depth of flavor and abundant variety of local wines, meet the talented farmers who grow the grapes and stretch their commitments to buying local. For more info, see: http://www.justfood.org/events/winetour_07.htm

10/27

Grass finished Natural and Organic Beef and Lamb, South Dartmouth, MA

Come to Woolly Mammoth Farm (1:30-4:30) and learn many of the vital aspects to finishing high quality lamb and beef in natural and organic systems. We will also go in depth in areas of preference for participants. Learn about production (feed, breed, water, fencing, and shelter), processing (how, where, value-added), and marketing. Matt Rulevich has been raising grass-finished lamb as Woolly Mammoth Farm since 1998 and now finishes beef and lamb on a 300 acre coastal farm in South Dartmouth.

10/29-30

Water and New Topsoil for Every Farm: The Keyline Plan in Practice, St. Albans, VT

This two day workshop with will cover the basics of Keyline farm design and Keyline topsoil formation. The Keyline Plan enables fast flood irrigation of flat and hilly land. Keyline topsoil formation involves using a subsoiler plow on pasture land in combination with planned grazing and irrigation or rainfall to rapidly convert subsoil to topsoil. The workshop will be led by Darren Doherty, an accomplished Keyline designer from Australia. For more info, see: http://www.nofavt.org/event.php?e_id=1068

11/3

NOFA CT, Organic Harvest Celebration & Annual Meeting, New Haven, CT

11/12-14

Albrecht Methods with Neal Kinsey, Lancaster, PA

12/1

Good Food Now! New York, NY

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OPPORTUNITIES

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Marketing and Public Relations Director, Organic Trade Association, Greenfield, MA

Compost Project Instructor, Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing, NY

Multiple openings, Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston, MA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY

Grow-Off Show-Off Contest

Contests. Contests. They’re everywhere. Athletes have the Olympics. Singers have American Idol. Survivors have, well, Survivor. Heck, even bakers have the Pillsbury Bake-Off. But what about people who grow some of their own food? We have talents too (aside from compost pile turning and pesto-making, that is) and it’s time we celebrated them. The Grow-Off Show-Off is a light-hearted, no-holds-barred talent contest for gardeners who cook, cooks who garden, and other garden-variety foodies. We’re looking for fresh, creative entries that communicate the multiple benefits – health, environmental, culinary, and community - of home-grown, home-made foods. The Grow-Off Show-Off is a project of Kitchen Gardeners International and is co-sponsored by Mother Earth News. There are many prizes available including a $500 grand prize. Due date: November 1, 2007 For more info, see: www.growoffshowoff.org

Vermont Barn Grants

The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation has a 50/50 matching grants program to assist owners of historic agricultural buildings (barns, corn cribs, sheds, grist mills, etc.) Up to $10,000 can be awarded to assist the restoration and repair of these endangered buildings. This program encourages the continued use of farm buildings for agricultural use. Due date: October 2, 2007 For more info, see:http://www.historicvermont.org/financial/barn.html

NEW HAMPSHIRE INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT GRANT

This program awards grants, up to $5,000, to the best project proposals submitted to the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets and Food. The purpose of this program is to "bring about the broadest possible application of the principles of IPM to agriculture, landscape and building maintenance, horticulture, arborculture, and any other areas in which economic poisons are employed". Due date: November 1, 2007 For more info, see: http://agriculture.nh.gov/programs/index.htm

CONNECTICUT AGRICULTURE VIABILITY GRANT

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announces the availability of approximately $7 million in block grant funds to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. State departments of agriculture interested in obtaining grant program funds are invited to submit applications to USDA. The SCBGP assists State departments of agriculture in enhancing the competitiveness of U.S. specialty crops. Specialty crops are defined as fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Examples of enhancing the competitiveness of specialty crops include, but are not limited to: Research, promotion, marketing, nutrition, trade enhancement, food safety, food security, plant health programs, education, "buy local" programs, increased consumption, increased innovation, improved efficiency and reduced costs of distribution systems, environmental concerns and conservation, product development, and developing cooperatives. Due date: October 11, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.ams.usda.gov/fv/scbgp.html

Maine Farms for the Future Program

Maine's Farm for the Future (FFF) program is a two-phase business assistance program that helps Maine farmers plan for the future of their agricultural enterprise. If selected for the program, the farmer will develop a business plan, with a team of professionals, for an idea that will increase the long-term economic viability of their farm. Once the business plan is completed the farmer is then eligible to apply for grant funds to complete the project. Due date: October 25, 2007 Full article here: http://www.maine.gov/agriculture/mpd/business/fff/index.html

Pennsylvania Agriculture and Rural Youth Grant Program

The purpose of the Agriculture and Rural Youth Grant Program is to fund projects, which will increase the knowledge and awareness of agricultural and rural issues in Pennsylvania, in particular among the youth of Pennsylvania. The Program awards direct grants up to $2,500 and matching grants up to $10,000. Eligible youth organizations are those which are primarily comprised of persons eighteen years of age or younger, and are organized within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to promote development in the areas of agriculture, rural community leadership, vocational training or peer fellowship. Due date: October 31, 2007 Full article here: http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/pagrows/cwp/view.asp?a=438&q=140654

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program

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Roger Doiron, NEFOOD Listserve administrator, roger@nesawg.org

Potluck News: September 2007

2007-09-05T16:24:10Z

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

The Eat-Local Backlash

NEWS:

Global food crisis looms experts fear

Fate of increased Chesapeake Bay funding in Farm Bill in Senate's hands

Vt. Dairy Price Plan Gains Support

Maine school lunch goes local

A Baby Sitter for the Herd

EVENTS:

9/8: Pickling with Salt, Great Barrington, MA

9/9: Taste Organic Connecticut, Coventry, CT

9/9: Massachusetts Raw Milk Dairy Day, statewide

9/21-23: Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

9/24: Creating School Gardens, Hubbardston, MA

10/12-13: How to Create Successful Public Markets, New York, NY

10/27: Grass finished Natural and Organic Beef and Lamb, South Dartmouth, MA

11/3: NOFA CT, Organic Harvest Celebration & Annual Meeting, New Haven, CT

12/1: Good Food Now! New York, NY

OPPORTUNITIES:

Executive Director, Poughkeepsie Farm Project, Poughkeepsie, NY

Grants and Communications Manager, Just Food, New York, NY

Program Educator, Green Teen Community Gardening Program, Beacon, NY

Community Gardening and Nutrition Program Manager, Isles, Inc., Trenton, NJ

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

Grow-Off Show-Off Contest

Vermont Barn Grants

New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Grant

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

New York Farmland Protection Implementation Projects

New York Farm Viability Institute Applied Research Partnership Grants

Maine Farms for the Future Program

Pennsylvania Agriculture and Rural Youth Grant Program

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program

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FARM BILL UPDATE

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As we reported in August’s Potluck News, the House has approved its version of the Farm Bill. NESAWG has since posted a chart summarizing the “good” and “gaps” of the bill to its website here: http://www.nesawg.org/2007/08/house_farm_bill.html . The ball is now in the Senate’s court and, in particular, in the hands of Agriculture Committee Chairman Tom Harkin who is expected to release his proposal for the Senate bill in early September. In the meanwhile, here’s a fun take on the battle for the next Farm Bill by the same folks who brought you the Meatrix: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvEarhyioYI Who said farm bill politics had to be boring?

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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The Eat-Local Backlash

(Grist) - Attention farmers' market shoppers: Put that heirloom tomato down and rush to the nearest supermarket. By seeking local food, you're wantonly spewing carbon into the atmosphere. That's the message of a budding backlash against the eat-local movement. The Economist fired a shotgun-style opening salvo last December, peppering what it called the "ethical foods movement" with a broad-spectrum critique. Among the claims: organic agriculture consumes more energy than conventional, and food bought from nearby sources often creates more greenhouse-gas emissions than food hauled in from long distances.

More recently, in a New York Times op-ed piece, the historian James E. McWilliams sought to debunk the idea that choosing locally produced food automatically decreases one's carbon footprint. He warns that efforts to reduce "food-miles" -- the distance between farm and plate -- might actually support higher carbon emissions at the source. And in Britain, a debate over whether to withdraw organic certification from African imports based on their transportation impact has spurred coverage of the issue as well.

What often arises in the food-miles debate, I think, is a false dichotomy: local vs. long distance. But the most attractive model might be a regional one. McWilliams touches on it, albeit vaguely, with a mention of a "hub-and-spoke system of food production and distribution." Crucially, he clings to the notion that Western consumers can continue to commandeer the globe's bounty perpetually, season be damned.

Full article here: http://grist.org/comments/food/2007/08/16/eatlocal/

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NEWS

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Global food crisis looms experts fear

(The Guardian -UK) - Climate change and an increasing population could trigger a global food crisis in the next half century as countries struggle for fertile land to grow crops and rear animals, scientists warned yesterday. To keep up with the growth in human population, more food will have to be produced worldwide over the next 50 years than has been during the past 10,000 years combined, the experts said. But in many countries a combination of poor farming practices and deforestation will be exacerbated by climate change to steadily degrade soil fertility, leaving vast areas unsuitable for crops or grazing. Competition over sparse resources may lead to conflicts and environmental destruction, the scientists fear. The warnings came as researchers from around the world convened at a UN-backed forum in Iceland on sustainable development to address the organisation's millennium development goals to halve hunger and extreme poverty by 2015. Full article here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2007/aug/31/climatechange.food

Fate of increased Chesapeake Bay funding in Farm Bill in Senate's hands

(Bay Journal) - The Senate this fall will consider whether its version of the Farm Bill should contain the sharp increases in Chesapeake Bay cleanup funding that were approved by the House in July. The House bill includes $212.5 million over five years in conservation funding specifically directed toward curbing nutrient and sediment pollution from farms in the Chesapeake region. In addition, it boosts spending for other nationwide conservation programs, which could bring tens of millions of additional funds to the region annually. The total value to the Bay over the five-year period covered by the bill could be about $500 million, supporters say. "This landmark effort represents a major new chapter in the Chesapeake Bay cleanup effort," said Rep. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD, who earlier had introduced alternative legislation aimed at boosting support for Bay efforts. Parts of that were incorporated in the final bill. Full article here: http://www.bayjournal.com/article.cfm?article=3156

Vt. Dairy Price Plan Gains Support

(AP) - A plan by a group of Vermont dairy farmers to end steep swings in milk prices paid to farmers is gaining support around the country, organizers said. Under it, farmers would pay 15 cents for every hundred pounds of milk they produce into a fund that would be used to market milk internationally and manage the milk supply, which is often blamed for broad price swings. Last week, the California-based Milk Producers Council cooperative said it supported the plan in principle, according to Margaret Huessy-Laggis, of Hardwick, a member of Dairy Farmers Working Together, which is traveling the country seeking support. "Most of the farmers who we've met with ... they never want to put their families through what they went through in 2006," she said Tuesday. Full article here: http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2007/08/29/ap4065222.html

Maine school lunch goes local

(Bangor Daily News) - For their first course, diners can choose from Autumn Harvest Corn & Chevre Pudding, Maple Roasted Root Vegetables or Carrot-Ginger Soup. For the main course — make that the Maine course — offerings include Italian-Inspired Pasta with Maine White Beans & Veggies, Chicken Pot Pie with Maine Mashed Potatoes or an organic Barbecue Beef Burger. Sides include Aroostook Wheat Berry Salad, Heirloom Tomato Salsa and Carrot-Raisin Slaw. And for dessert, the mouth-watering lineup includes Pumpkin Snack Cakes, Wild Blueberry Cobbler and Maine Apple Gingerbread. If you think this sounds like a bistro menu, think again. This is a school lunch menu — yes, you read that right — school lunch, better known for such classics as rectangular pizzas, salami Italians on hamburger buns and sloppy Joes (or, as Adam Sandler would sing, "slop, sloppy Joes." But there was nary a sloppy Joe in sight — no hoagies and grinders, either — as Bangor chef Cheryl Wixson led a class for school food service workers last week at the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity. Full article here: http://bangordailynews.com/news/t/lifestyle.aspx?articleid=153638&zoneid=14

A Baby Sitter For The Herd

(Hartford Courant) - The woman who calls herself the Fairy Barnmother wakes at dawn, slips into well-worn dungarees and mud-caked boots and hops aboard her new pickup truck to visit the farm animals. But unlike most farmers, she does not own many of the animals that she will feed, clean and comfort. Cathy Kerkes is a professional critter sitter, someone who travels from barn to barn to care for other people's livestock and pets. "I've got animals of my own, so I know how hard it can be," Kerkes said as she tossed hay bales to sheep on a recent Saturday morning. "You may love them, you may even need them to pay your bills, but animals can really tie you down. That's where I come in." Full article here: http://www.courant.com/news/local/hc-barnmother0826.artaug26,0,1060289.story

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EVENTS

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9/8

Pickling with Salt, Great Barrington, MA

Learn how to create delicious, nutritious pickles through the wonder of lacto-fermentation. Lacto-fermentation is the original and a healthy way of making pickles, sauerkraut, kimchee, and many other traditional foods. We will learn health benefits and make a batch of sauerkraut to take home and also sample some other fermented foods. Seth Travin has made sauerkraut for over 9 years and works at the SauerKraut Cellar at Hawthorne Valley Farm and sells to the Berkshire Mountain Coop. You will make and take home pickles & sauerkraut using organic veggies(bring 'em along!). Seth runs the Sauerkraut Cellar at Hawthorne Valley Biodynamic Farm. For more info, see: http://www.nofa.org/store/product.php?StoreID=1&ProdID=MASKLSPKL07

9/9

Taste Organic Connecticut, Coventry, CT

Fall Festival - Organic Farmer's Market - Children's Activities Educational Workshops - Music - Craft Vendors. For more info, see: http://www.ctnofa.org/events/Taste/taste2007.htm

9/9

Massachusetts Raw Milk Dairy Day, statewide

On Sunday, September 9th, seven Massachusetts dairies that sell raw milk will open up their farms for tours and other activities. The farms are located throughout the state, from Foxboro to Williamstown, and each welcomes families and friends interested in learning more about dairy farms and raw milk. Activities will vary from farm to farm; some will offer milking demonstrations, cheese samples, wagon rides, picnic areas and petting animals, and all will include information about why raw milk is so good! Raw milk and other dairy products, as well as various local fruits, vegetables and meats will be available for sale. Support your local dairies on September 9th and learn why everyone’s talking about raw milk! For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org/programs/organicdairy/pdfs/rawmilkday.pdf

9/21-23

Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

Downeast Magazine calls Common Ground "Maine's most authentic country fair, uniting, as it does, old-time folkways with progressive ideas about living the good life on a fragile planet." Organized by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, the Common Ground Country Fair brings together people to share knowledge about sustainable living; eat delicious, organic, Maine-grown food; buy and sell beautiful Maine crafts and useful agricultural products; compete in various activities; dance; sing and have a great time. For more info, see: www.mofga.org

9/24

Creating School Gardens, Hubbardston, MA

Start with a tour of the 70-foot diameter organic school garden. The Hubbardston Center School's garden program was developed using grant money, school and community involvement, and is student- maintained. Hear about the role the garden plays in hands-on learning at different grade levels and how the garden has provided nutritious snacks for the entire population of 480 students at this central Mass K-6 elementary school. Learn an introduction to organic gardening. Resources for beginners to learn more of the basics will be available. For more info, see: http://www.nofa.org/store/product.php?StoreID=1&ProdID=MASKLSSCH07

10/12-13

How to Create Successful Public Markets, New York, NY

10/27

Grass finished Natural and Organic Beef and Lamb, South Dartmouth, MA

11/3

NOFA CT, Organic Harvest Celebration & Annual Meeting, New Haven, CT

12/1

Good Food Now! New York, NY

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OPPORTUNITIES

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Executive Director, Poughkeepsie Farm Project, Poughkeepsie, NY

The Poughkeepsie Farm Project (PFP), a Mid-Hudson Valley, NY farm based nonprofit organization that works toward a just and sustainable food system by operating a member-supported farm, providing education and training about food and farming, and improving access to healthy, locally-grown food, is currently hiring an Executive Director. The Executive Director will work with PFP staff, youth participants, and community members to carry out PFP's food justice and education programs, while simultaneously acting as steward of PFP’s mission and directing and representing the organization. Last day to apply: September 15, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/236297-149

Grants and Communications Manager, Just Food, New York, NY

Just Food seeks a Grants and Communications Manager to cultivate relationships with foundations and the press. The position will be responsible for developing proposals, reports, and press releases as well as written, verbal and visual communications including print, electronic publishing, publicity, advertising and press materials. Last day to apply: September 8, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/238150-5

Program Educator, Green Teen Community Gardening Program, Beacon, NY

Assist in the development, coordination and implementation of a city-based youth and teen (ages 7-17) gardening education program. Provide educational programming to underserved youth from the City of Beacon through gardening, ecology and food system activities in after school programs, during school hours, and in summer programs. Last day to apply: September 25, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/233610-186

Community Gardening and Nutrition Program Manager, Isles, Inc., Trenton, NJ

Isles seeks a Community Gardening and Nutrition Program (CGNP) Manager to plan and implement activities of community gardening and nutrition for Isles, a nonprofit community development and environmental organization in Trenton, NJ. Last day to apply: September 29, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/233922-224

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY

Grow-Off Show-Off Contest

Contests. Contests. They’re everywhere. Athletes have the Olympics. Singers have American Idol. Survivors have, well, Survivor. Heck, even bakers have the Pillsbury Bake-Off. But what about home gardeners? We have talents too (aside from compost pile turning and pesto-making, that is) and it’s time we celebrated them. The Grow-Off Show-Off is a light-hearted, no-holds-barred talent contest for gardeners who cook, cooks who garden, and other garden-variety foodies. We’re looking for fresh, creative entries that communicate the multiple benefits – health, environmental, culinary, and community - of home-grown, home-made foods. The Grow-Off Show-Off is a project of Kitchen Gardeners International and is co-sponsored by Mother Earth News. There are many prizes available including a $500 grand prize. For more info, see: www.growoffshowoff.org

Vermont Barn Grants

NEW HAMPSHIRE INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT GRANT

CONNECTICUT AGRICULTURE VIABILITY GRANT

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

New York Farmland Protection Implementation Projects

The New York Farmland Protection Program is accepting applications for matching implementation funds from counties and municipalities with approved agricultural land protection plans. Due date: September 17, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/RFPS.html

New York Farm Viability Institute Applied Research Partnership Grants

The Applied Research Partnership program supports practical, on-farm research efforts that are designed to result in measurable, beneficial impacts to participating farms within the lifespan of the project. The New York Farm Viability Institute seeks proposals for projects of no more than two years in duration that work directly with agricultural producers. Sectors of interest include, but are not limited to, field and horticultural crops, livestock, dairy, greenhouse, nursery, turf grass, equine, aquaculture and other agricultural enterprises. Proposals for up to $250,000 over the life of the project will be accepted from producer groups, researchers and educators at academic institutions, Cooperative Extension staff and other groups, agencies and businesses involved in research, development, technology adoption and business assistance in the agricultural sector. Due date: October 1, 2007 Full article here: http://www.nyfarmviability.org/downloads.asp#Focus%20Opportunity%20Grant%20Program

Maine Farms for the Future Program

Pennsylvania Agriculture and Rural Youth Grant Program

Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program

Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program

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Roger Doiron, NEFOOD Listserve administrator, roger@nesawg.org

Assessing the House farm bill

2007-08-23T17:28:53Z

Last month, the House of Representatives passed its version of the Farm Bill. This chart highlights how the House bill responds to priorities for the Northeast. It identifies some gaps between what’s proposed and what advocates are seeking for our region. The Northeast priorities are detailed in The Northeast Farm Bill Agenda. The chart is organized according to the three main priority areas in the Agenda. It is not an exhaustive list of all the bill’s provisions. Nor does it address some major reforms and other issues that many of us care about and have been working on such as commodity subsidies, payment limitations, competition, socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, research and education.

I. Economic Development and Farm Viability
Program	The good	The gaps
Value-Added Producer Grants	Proposes $30 million annual mandatory spending for Value-Added Producer Grants; includes a focus on small and medium size farms.	Still insufficient funding level (half the current level) to meet need.
New Economic Development Programs	a) Creates a preference within the Business and Industry Loan Program for guaranteed loans for local and regional food processing and distribution infrastructure; b) provides $20 million discretionary funding for a new Rural Entrepreneurs and Micro-Enterprise Loan Program that offers grants, loans, education and assistance to rural entrepreneurs; c) authorizes Healthy Food Urban Enterprise Development Program provides grants for feasibility studies for the establishment of processing and distribution facilities; d) establishes a new board to make planning and innovation grants to certified Regional Investment Boards.	Does not include new proposed programs: a) Farm and Ranch Profitability Program; b) Community-based Entrepreneurial Development Program; or c) Rural Entrepreneurship, Education and Enterprise Facilitation Program
Inter-state Shipment of Meat	Permits states with meat inspections programs identical to Federal regulations to ship meat and poultry products to other states.	The new legislation would require state inspection programs to adopt the exact standards (rather than “at least equal to) for inspection, re-inspection, and sanitation currently found in federal law. This raises concern for its impact on smaller-scale processors.
Dairy	Extends the MILC dairy payment program at current level.	No proposed increases in the production cap or target price.
Specialty Crops	Creates new Title: Horticulture and Organic Agriculture; allocates total of $1.6 billion for specialty crops, including $215 million for research, $365 million over 5 years (mandatory) for block grants to states, and $25 million for fresh produce safety grants.
Organic	Provides mandatory $22 million/5 years for National Organic Cost Share Program; minimum $15 million a year in mandatory funding for Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative; authorizes Organic Conversion Assistance Program at $50 million; $3 million mandatory over 5 years for the Organic Production and Marketing Data Collection program.
Rural Energy for America Program	Previously named Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Program (Section 9006) authorizes loans, loan guarantees, and grants to purchase and install renewable energy systems and improve energy efficiency. Increases mandatory funding to $500 million over 5 years. Includes Forest Biomass for Energy to address feedstock and other issues in use of woody biomass. .
Crop Insurance	Creates process to improve coverage for organic producers.	No provision to strengthen/reform Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR and AGR/Lite) insurance programs that provide insurance for diversified farms; organic coverage issues not sufficiently clarified.
Other	a) Provides beginning farmer loan program reforms; mandatory $15 milllion/year for Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program); provides mandatory $15 million/ year for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers (Section 2501); requires assessing varying definitions of “rural” to better target rural development funds.

II. Conservation
Program	The good	The gaps
Environmental Quality Incentives Program	Funding is increased by $5.4 billion (42 percent) over the next 10 years, and $1.9 billion (31 percent) over the next 5 years.
Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative	Creates new program; proposes 90% of funding be awarded at the state level (which fosters states’ ability to decide conservation priorities).
Conservation Security Program		Funding reduced by $4.8 billion over 10 years; no new sign-ups until 2012; significant program modifications (e.g., eliminates three tiers and eliminates payments except for enhancement payments).
Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP)	Increased to $300 million/year in mandatory funding; makes several key reforms to program, including elimination of federal property interest.	Lack of agreement on Federal-state process to determine impervious cover limitations.
Agricultural Management Assistance	Continues AMA at $20 million/year in baseline mandatory funding targeted to Northeast states; 50% distributed through NRCS, 40% through RMA and 10% for organic cost-share.	Funding for organic cost-share still does not meet demand; additional $20 million/year included in "contingency funding".
Regional Equity	Increased from $12 million to $15 million/state/year.
Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG)	Within EQIP, provides increased funding for CIG, including $5 million/year Comprehensive Conservation Planning pilot program for the Chesapeake Bay, and $5 million/year for outreach to specialty crop and organic producers.
Forestry	Includes $17 million in annual mandatory funding for Healthy Forests Reserve Program (HFRP).	Eliminates Forest Land Enhancement Program which was funded at $100 million mandatory in current farm bill. Does not include option for permanent easements in HFRP. Does not include Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program.
Other	Establishes Regional Water Enhancement Program at $60 million annually to address water quality and quantity problems in targeted areas, including the Chesapeake Bay. Provides for new Chesapeake Bay Program for Nutrient Reduction and Sediment Control at $150 million over five years. Proposes $5 million/year for new Outreach Grants to Specialty Crop and Organic Producers.

III. Food and Nutrition
Program	The good	The gaps
Food Stamps	Increases allocation to $4 billion over five years for food stamps and other nutrition spending. Increases mandatory funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) to $250 million per year.	Needs additional $1.6 billion to fully fund nutrition safety net improvements.
Farmers Market Promotion Program	Increases to $35 million in mandatory spending over 5 years; expands renamed Farmers Marketing Assistance Program activities to include use of EBT systems at markets.	Proposed funding level does not meet high demand for the program.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program	Increases to $15 million/year mandatory funding, with $20-$75million discretionary over the life of Farm Bill.	Amendment to allow flexibility in state implementation (e.g., to allow CSA-structured programs) withdrawn.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Programs	Increases to $70 million per year and expands to all states for school purchase of fruits and vegetables; increases to $75 million/year for DOD Fresh Program; increases required expenditure for fruits, vegetables and nuts through Section 32 purchasing.
Community Food Projects	Provides $30 million/year discretionary, with expanded purposes.	Eliminates mandatory funding ( at $5 million per year), which the Program has had for the past ten years 2002-2007).
Procurement and Geographic Preferences	Allows geographic/local preference and increased flexibility for USDA food program purchasing as no-cost provision.
Nutrition Education	Authorizes new Nutrition Education and Promotion Initiative to Address Obesity, a grants program at $10 million/year for five years.
Other	Recommends that various federal agencies work together to assess "food deserts" and develop recommendations to eliminate them.

Potluck News: August 2007

2007-08-13T21:11:45Z

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Fair Trade Hits Home

NEWS:

Farm Bill passes House. Attention turns to Senate

Maine approves GM modified corn

New farm group looks for way to stabilize dairy prices

EVENTS:

8/2-5: Kneading Conference, Skowhegan, ME

8/9-12: American Community Gardening Association Annual Conference, Boston, MA

8/10-12: Annual NOFA Summer Conference, Amherst, MA

8/21: Whole Farm Approach to Selling Raw Goat Milk and Goat Nutrition, Hoosick, NY

8/23: Small Scale Sustainable Farming Field Day, Meadville, PA

8/26: Kitchen Garden Day, your backyard or a garden near you

9/8: Pickling with Salt, Great Barrington, MA

9/9: Taste Organic Connecticut, Coventry, CT

9/21-23: Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

9/24: Creating School Gardens, Hubbardston, MA

10/27: Grass finished Natural and Organic Beef and Lamb, South Dartmouth, MA

OPPORTUNITIES:

Program Educator, Green Teen Community Gardening Program, Beacon, NY

Community Gardening and Nutrition Program Manager, Isles, Inc., Trenton, NJ

Development Director, Southside Community Land Trust, Providence, RI

Program Manager, Accokeek Foundation, Accokeek, MD

Freelance Writer, Grace, New York, NY

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

Grow-Off Show-Off Contest

Vermont Barn Grants

New York Food and Agriculture Industry Development Program

Farm Aid Grant Program

New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Grant

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

New York Farmland Protection Implementation Projects

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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Fair Trade Hits Home

(Washington Post) - Admit it. You feel pretty good when you drink your fair-trade coffee. Smug, even. As you inhale the rich aroma from that bag of beans, you know that your $12 helped to pay the farmers a fair price for their labor -- and helped build a school in El Salvador, create a women's leadership program in Guatemala or provide tsunami relief to Sumatrans. Which is why Massachusetts-based Equal Exchange, a pioneer of the fair-trade concept, is betting you'll feel good -- maybe even better -- as you dip into a snack bag of organic California almonds, Georgia pecans or Cape Cod and Wisconsin cranberries. The products, the first to be developed by a coalition called the Domestic Free Trade Working Group, hit Washington area shelves this month (see box below for locations). The products come from family farms or small co-ops, which are paid a price that both buyer and seller deem fair and that is typically higher than the cheapest available. Every pack has a unique "best by" date that customers can plug into a Web site to track where their snack came from. "For 20 years we've focused on the developing world. But the challenges faced by small farmers and family farms in the United States are not that different than the ones the farmers face overseas," said Erbin Crowell, Equal Exchange's domestic fair trade program manager. Like coffee and cacao farmers in Central America, small American farmers often get paid less than what it costs them to produce their products. Full article here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/07/17/AR2007071700313.html

(Editor’s note: congrats to NESAWG member, Equal Exchange, on the good work and press)

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NEWS

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Farm Bill passes House

The Farm Bill was passed by the House last Friday through a largely party-line vote. In the coming days, NESAWG will be sharing a sort of snapshot of the Bill’s contents, both the good parts and the gaps. As you will see from the links below, the national press has been very critical:

(USA Today) - Down on the farm, it's business as usual. Full article here: http://blogs.usatoday.com/oped/2007/07/post-30.html

(LA Times) - Pelosi's bad farm bill. Full article here: http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-ed-farmbill31jul31,0,1585835.story?coll=la-news-comment-opinions

(NY Times) - Farm Subsidies Seem Immune to an Overhaul: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/26/washington/26farm.html?th&emc=th

Meanwhile, on the Senate side:

Harkin may unveil SENATE farm bill plan next week

(Brownfield News Service) - Senate Ag Committee Chairman Tom Harkin told reporters yesterday that he may issue his preliminary version of the 2007 farm bill as soon as next week, even though Congress will be in recess. But Harkin also said details of his proposal are still being fleshed out and may not be available before Congress returns. "I had hoped to have something this week, but you know, these are some tough negotiations going on right now and we're still having some conversations," said Harkin. "I'm still hopeful that maybe by next week - I know we're not in session, but staffs work and we're working and we're always on the phone and that kind of stuff - that we might be able to have something that we could basically roll out for people to look at over the August break before we come back in September, but then again, I'm not going to be held to that," he continued. "If we don't reach some agreements this week then I'm going to keep it in my hip pocket until we come back in September." Full article here: http://www.brownfieldnetwork.com/gestalt/go.cfm?objectid=1DDCD79B-0271-A982-34DE7E61EECBC17E

Other news:

Maine approves GM modified corn

(Portland Press Herald) - Maine joined the rest of the nation Friday in allowing the use of a genetically modified corn that is resistant to insects. Citing a mandate to try to reduce the use of pesticides, the Board of Pesticides Control approved applications by Dow AgroSciences, Pioneer Hi-Bred International and Monsanto to register seven Bt corn products to be grown for animal feed. While allowing the corn to be grown in Maine for the first time, the board plans to develop rules for the crops' use to alleviate organic farmers' fears of contamination. "I'm only going to be able to say there aren't unreasonable risks if we add some conditions (for use)," said the board's chairwoman, Dr. Carol A. Eckert. The board voted 6-0 to approve the applications under the conditions that the three companies report sales data to the board and support education and training. The board also agreed 6-0 -- John Jemison Jr. abstained from both votes for unstated reasons -- to develop rules for use. Full article here: http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=123630&ac=PHnws

New farm group looks for way to stabilize dairy prices

(Associated Press) - Margaret Laggis hopes that a new dairy farmers' group started in Vermont has come up with a plan to stabilize the prices farmers get for their milk that can win support in other parts of the country."Our challenge was to come up with something everybody could support," said the farmer and longtime advocate on dairy issues. "We think weve done that." Laggis joined the new group, Dairy Farmers Working Together, when it was formed late last year by farmers beset by low wholesale milk prices. It has 300 members now, from around New England, New York and Pennsylvania. Full article here: http://www.boston.com/news/local/vermont/articles/2007/07/22/new_farm_group_looks_for_way_to_stabilize_farm_prices/

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EVENTS

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8/2-5

Kneading Conference, Skowhegan, ME

Meeting the need for locally grown grain and wood-fired bread. The KNEADING Conference invites professional and home bakers, farmers, and millers, oven builders, and innovative community members to participate in hands-on demonstrations and lectures on progressive ideas in the art of wood-fired bread baking and food production, local grain growing and milling, and oven building. For more info, see: http://www.heartofmaine.org/kneading/

8/9-12

American Community Gardening Association Annual Conference, Boston, MA

The ACGA Annual Conference brings together hundreds of individuals from across the United States, Canada, and abroad, who are engaged in all aspects of gardening and greening. The conference includes hands-on workshops, keynote speakers, a film festival, and visits to parks, school gardens, community gardens, and other green spaces in the Boston area. For more info, see: http://www.communitygarden.org/conferences.php

8/10-12

ANNUAL NOFA SUMMER CONFERENCE, AMHERST, MA

The 33rd Annual NOFA Summer Conference will take place Aug. 10-12, 2007 on the organic farmer-friendly campus of Hampshire College. Keynote speakers include Bill McKibben and Hazel Henderson. For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org/conferences/s2007/index.php

8/21

Whole Farm Approach to Selling Raw Goat Milk and Goat Nutrition, Hoosick, NY

NOFA Vermont presents this workshop at Berle Farm, a 500-acre OCIA-certified organic farm that produces raw goat milk, goat cheese, as well as organic beef and animal feed. The first half of this workshop will focus on producing and selling raw goat milk. The second half will emphasize goat nutrition for farm health and milk quality. Pre-registration is required.

http://www.nofavt.org/event.php?e_id=954

8/23

Small Scale Sustainable Farming Field Day, Meadville, PA

This PASA Farm-based Education event offers an opportunity to learn about high tunnel construction, costs and production and no-till raised beds in the open air garden at Fresh From the Vines. Also learn about selling at a farmer’s market and a natural foods cooperative, record keeping and operating a home processing kitchen.

http://www.pasafarming.org/programs/2007-small-scale-sust-farming.html

8/26

Kitchen Garden Day, your backyard or a garden near you

Kitchen Garden Day is an annual, decentralized celebration of food produced on a human scale. It is an opportunity for people around the world to gather in their gardens with friends, family, and members of their local community to celebrate the multiple pleasures and benefits of home-grown, hand-made foods. For more info, see: www.kitchengardenday.org

9/8

Pickling with Salt, Great Barrington, MA

9/9

Taste Organic Connecticut, Coventry, CT

Fall Festival - Organic Farmer's Market - Children's Activities Educational Workshops - Music - Craft Vendors. For more info, see: http://www.ctnofa.org/events/Taste/taste2007.htm

9/21-23

Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

9/24

Creating School Gardens, Hubbardston, MA

10/27

Grass finished Natural and Organic Beef and Lamb, South Dartmouth, MA

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OPPORTUNITIES

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Program Educator, Green Teen Community Gardening Program, Beacon, NY

Community Gardening and Nutrition Program Manager, Isles, Inc., Trenton, NJ

Development Director, Southside Community Land Trust, Providence, RI

The Development Director has primary responsibility for implementing and managing a multi-faceted development program that includes soliciting individual donors, overseeing fundraising events, and recruiting corporate sponsors. Last day to apply: August 29, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/232697-14

Program Manager, Accokeek Foundation, Accokeek, MD

The Program Manager will assume responsibility for launching a new collaborative program to encourage land conservation and compatible economic development in the Potomac River corridor in Prince George’s and Charles counties, Maryland, encompassing the viewshed of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and certain other lands of natural, cultural and scenic value. A working knowledge of growth management issues, experience in the conservation field, general technical skills, basic knowledge of real estate, ability to work well with a variety of people, strong writing and speaking skills, ability to work independently, proximity to and general familiarity with conservation area. Last day to apply: August 31, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/230510-89

Freelance Writer, Grace, New York, NY

GRACE's Sustainable Table program [www.sustainabletable.org] invites applications for a freelance writer to assist with writing and research for a wide variety of subjects, including: sustainable and organic food and farming, nutrition, agribusiness, genetic engineering, pesticides, environmental issues, policy, international agricultural issues, and more. Writing will be for articles, fact sheets, handouts, and other online content. Last day to apply: August 10, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/225914-85

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY

Grow-Off Show-Off Contest

Contests. Contests. They’re everywhere. Athletes have the Olympics. Singers have American Idol. Survivors have, well, Survivor. Heck, even bakers have the Pillsbury Bake-Off. But what about home gardeners? We have talents too (aside from compost pile turning and pesto-making, that is) and it’s time we celebrated them. The Grow-Off Show-Off is a light-hearted, no-holds-barred talent contest for gardeners who cook, cooks who garden, and other garden-variety foodies. We’re looking for fresh, creative entries that communicate the multiple benefits – health, environmental, culinary, and community - of home-grown, home-made foods. The Grow-Off Show-Off is a project of Kitchen Gardeners International and is co-sponsored by Mother Earth News. There are many prizes available including a $500 grand prize. For more info, see: www.growoffshowoff.org

Vermont Barn Grants

New York Food and Agriculture Industry Development Program

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets invites proposals for implementing innovative and low risk approaches to the research, development, production, processing, and distribution of agricultural products and foods that capitalize on the State’s unique resources and strategic location near significant markets. Public and private agencies and organizations, business and industry, educational institutions, local governments and individuals are eligible to submit proposals. Due date: August 28, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/RFPS.html

Farm Aid Grant Program

The mission of Farm Aid is to keep farmers on their land and to bring together family farmers, citizens, and consumers to restore family farm-centered agriculture. The Farm Aid grant program supports organizations that work to maintain a family farm system of agriculture and that promote solutions to the challenges facing rural communities. Farm Aid grants are awarded in the following categories: Farm Resources, Farm Action, Food Systems, and Farm Policy. Grants range from $1,000-$40,000, with most being from $3,000-$7,500. Due date: August 31, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.farmaid.org/site/c.qlI5IhNVJsE/b.2723745/k.9953/Grant_Guidelines.htm

NEW HAMPSHIRE INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT GRANT

CONNECTICUT AGRICULTURE VIABILITY GRANT

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

New York Farmland Protection Implementation Projects

Potluck News: July 2007

2007-07-01T16:39:20Z

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

The Fat of the Land: Whom to help -- wealthy cotton growers, or just about everyone else in the world?

Farm Bill: Feast or Famine for Connecticut

NEWS:

Making waves in Dairyland

Chinese imports are worrying PA apple growers

NH state law making homemade goods safer, easier to sell

Even with aid, MA dairy farmers struggle to keep businesses going

Growing pains: How global warming helps and hurts VT agriculture

EVENTS:

6/28-29: FoodMed--Conference on Local, Sustainable Healthcare Food, Boston, MA

7/7: Haymaking workshop, Lincoln, MA

7/11-14: 2nd National Conference on Facilitating Sustainable Agriculture Education, Ithaca, NY

7/14: Starting with draft horses, Rutland, MA

7/20: Rodale Institute Annual Field Day, Kutztown, PA

7/21: Organic Gardening Workshop, Hubbardston, MA

8/2-5: Kneading Conference, Skowhegan, ME

8/10-12: Annual NOFA Summer Conference, Amherst, MA

9/9: Taste Organic Connecticut, Coventry, CT

9/21-23: Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

OPPORTUNITIES:

Development Manager, Farm Aid, Somerville, MA

Freelance Writer, Grace, New York, NY

Youth Horticulture Coordinator/Educator, Poughkeepsie, NY

Temporary Copywriter, Oxfam America, Boston, MA

Program Coordinator, Share Our Strength, Boston, MA

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Grant

Organic Farming Research Foundation Grant

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

New York Farmland Protection Implementation Projects

Pennsylvania Agricultural Product Promotion Grants

Conservation Innovation Grants—Rhode Island

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

*******************

The Fat of the Land: Whom to help -- wealthy cotton growers, or just about everyone else in the world?

(Washington Post) - A proposal making its way to the House floor would hurt everyone from the average American taxpayer to the struggling African farmer. It would enrich a small number of big businesses in a few dozen congressional districts. It would claim money that could otherwise go to priorities the Democratic majority supposedly champions: environmental conservation, student loans, Head Start, food stamps or children's health insurance. Even President Bush wants to reprioritize the spending. So what will the Democratic leadership do about it? Last week a panel of the House Agriculture Committee snubbed a growing group of lawmakers critical of federal farm payouts by reapproving a massive system of subsidies in place since 2002, the last time Congress thoroughly examined agricultural policy. The 2002 farm bill is a monument to craven interest politics and federal waste. Its commodity supports are too often misdirected: High-income farmers collect increasing shares of the largess, and, by The Post's calculations, between 2000 and 2006 about $1.3 billion went to Americans who do not farm at all.� Read the full editorial here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/23/AR2007062300953.html

Farm Bill: Feast Or Famine For Connecticut

(Hartford Courant) - First, let's take a look at the numbers. Between 1995 and 2005, the state of Iowa received $14.8 billion in federal agricultural subsidies. During the same period, Connecticut, with a population very close to that of Iowa's, received $59.1 million from the same government cash pool. Well of course, you say, America's premier corn and soybean state has about 25 times more farmers than the Nutmeg State. They should get the lion's share of the loot. But think again. Such a disproportionate redistribution of the nation's wealth in favor of one region over another is not preordained. It is in fact the direct result of a periodic divvying up of the agricultural pie by Washington politicians and food industry interest groups in the national farm bill.� Read the full editorial here: http://www.courant.com/news/opinion/commentary/hc-plcwinne0603.artjun03,0,1104102.story?coll=hc-headlines-commentary

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NEWS

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Making waves in Dairyland

(The New York Times) - Ron Kind, a Democratic representative from Wisconsin dairyland, is making a name for himself as a crusader for big changes in farm policy. It’s making many of his colleagues nervous.Mr. Kind represents a district in southwest Wisconsin which has hundreds of dairy farmers and received $1.4 billion in farm subsidies from 1995 to 2005. He says farmers realize that change is inevitable.Mr. Kind, a six-term congressman, has introduced legislation that would drastically reduce farm subsidies while pouring more money into land conservation programs and rural development. He gathered 200 votes for a similar bill in 2002 and says he believes he has additional momentum this time around. “There are so many reasons to do it,” Mr. Kind said, ticking off high crop prices and increasing pressure from foreign trading partners as two reasons to curb subsidies. “Now we are going to see if this Congress has the stomach for meaningful reform.” Read the full article here: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/22/business/22farm.html

Chinese imports are worrying Pa. apple growers

(Philadelphia Inquirer) - Farmers have been growing apples here since before the Civil War, and as times have changed, they have changed with them, planting smaller trees to speed up harvests and growing popular new varieties to satisfy changing tastes. But the growers who have made this mountainous region the core of apple-growing in Pennsylvania worry that they face a new challenge that may be too big to overcome and could change their way of life. Like farmers in the bigger apple-producing states, they are becoming increasingly anxious about the prospect of China flooding the U.S. market with their fresh apples - an event many believe is inevitable, even if it could be years away. Read the full article here: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/local/8161652.html

NH state law making homemade goods safer, easier to sell

(Nashua Telegraph) - Summer’s arrival on Thursday marked the opening of farmers markets across the region, venues for nature’s harvest and the ever-popular homemade pies, jams and jellies long associated with outdoor shopping. Selling and buying homemade products that don’t require refrigeration will be easier and safer this year thanks to a new, two-tiered state law that regulates home production in most communities across the state. The law, which doesn’t apply in Nashua because of its status as a self-inspecting community, affects sales of products sold at farmers markets and farm stands, which have established farmers markets. By city law, Nashua farmers markets aren’t allowed to sell homemade products. The new regulation was designed to protect the public from food-borne illnesses while encouraging the development of small businesses, said Jack Potter, a Sanbornton farmer who helped write the law. Read the full article here: http://www.nashuatelegraph.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070624/BUSINESS/206240386/-1/news

Even with aid, MA dairy farmers struggle to keep businesses going

(Boston Globe) - He has spent the past eight hours milking cows, helping a veterinarian do pregnancy checks on his herd and fixing a tractor. He still needs to spread some manure and get through another milking in the afternoon on the 175-acre farm that's been in his family for 346 years. The migraines aren't bothering him today, but the 47-year-old has other headaches to deal with -- like the $10,000 bill for corn seed just delivered by the mailman. He looks at the bill and says goodbye to more than half of the $19,000 he's expecting from an emergency state payout to dairy farmers who suffered some $18 million in losses last year. His share of that loss was $50,000. Read the full article here: http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2007/06/09/even_with_aid_dairy_farmers_struggle_to_keep_businesses_going/

Growing pains: How global warming helps and hurts VT agriculture

(Times Argus) - Dr. Alan K. Betts, a scholar of meteorology and theoretical physics, can speak with scientific precision about the impact of global warming on Vermont. But it's simpler for him to tell the story about picking brussels sprouts from his Pittsford garden this past winter. When the 61-year-old atmospheric researcher moved to the state three decades ago, he wouldn't leave any fruit or vegetable outside during the winter. Instead, he harvested everything before frost took a bite each fall. "It used to be a challenge for me to have brussels sprouts to eat for Thanksgiving," Betts recalls. "But the last few winters, I've had brussels sprouts for Christmas." Then one spring-like day this past January, he reached down into his garden and pulled up a handful of ready-to-boil brussels sprouts. For Betts, it's just one example how global warming is cropping up in the state. Read the full article here: http://www.timesargus.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070624/NEWS01/706240396/1002/NEWS01

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EVENTS

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6/28-29

FoodMed--Conference on Local, Sustainable Healthcare Food, Boston, MA

This one and half day conference is designed to help participants incorporate sustainable and nutritious food purchasing at their facilities, and learn cost effective strategies that emphasize health concerns that meet the unique needs of healthcare and facilitate the development of healthy communities. Presentations will be geared towards healthcare providers, dieticians, food service directors and food procurement and distribution professionals. For more info, see here: http://www.foodmed.org/

7/7

Haymaking workshop, Lincoln, MA

Learn to read the weather, loading twine, balers, tedders and rotary rakes. Codman Farm makes over 16,000 bales a year. For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org

7/11-14

2nd National Conference on Facilitating Sustainable Agriculture Education, Ithaca, NY

With a team of trained facilitators in real-time participatory techniques such as World Caf� and Open Space Technology, the conference will consist of a series of focused group discussions, participant-driven workshops, and short presentations. As complement to the real-time participant-driven workshops, sessions will also be organized to: 1) explore innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to learning and teaching that are applicable to sustainable agriculture; 2) share curricula and teaching experiences from developing or established programs; 3) provide a forum for exchanging resources and materials; 4) strategize resourceful ways of starting and maintaining sustainable agriculture education programs and farms; and, 5) formally launch the Post-Secondary Sustainable Agriculture Education Association (SAEA). For more info, see: http://www.hort.cornell.edu/SustAgEd/

7/14

Starting with Draft Horses, Rutland, MA

You will learn about both the care (health, nutrition, foot care) of horses as well as have hands-on opportunities in handling, harnessing, and driving draft horses (single and team). There will also be farm equipment demonstrations (logging, wagon, cultivator and walking plow) and informal question and answer time throughout the workshop. Dale Perkins is the Farm Steward at Heifer International's Overlook Farm and has more than 20 years experience working with draft and saddle horses. For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org

7/20
Rodale Institute Annual Field Day, Kutztown, PA

The 2007 Annual Field Day at The Rodale Institute will focus mainly on mechanical cover crop management for organic no-till, addressing the many benefits of this management system and the challenges encountered by farmers and researchers around the country. Topics to be included will feature results from the first three years of a large-scale research project on no-till systems focused on building and testing a second generation of no-till rollers under various field conditions, in diverse geographic areas and with different crops/cover crop combinations. For more info, see: http://www.rodaleinstitute.org/events/content.shtml#fieldday

7/21

Organic Gardening Workshop, Hubbardston, MA

Learn how gardening begins with the soil and building and maintaining a compost pile; choosing, planting and incorporating cover crops; no-till gardening techniques; mulches; soil testing; raised beds vs row planting; and using soil amendments. For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org

8/2-5

Kneading Conference, Skowhegan, ME

8/10-12

ANNUAL NOFA SUMMER CONFERENCE, AMHERST, MA

9/9

Taste Organic Connecticut, Coventry, CT

Fall Festival - Organic Farmer's Market - Children's Activities Educational Workshops - Music - Craft Vendors. For more info, see: http://www.ctnofa.org/events/Taste/taste2007.htm

9/21-23

Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

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OPPORTUNITIES

*******************

Development Manager, Farm Aid, Somerville, MA

National nonprofit looking for FT mission driven development professional who knows all the rules of fundraising thru major gifts, special events and foundations but wants to apply them in entrepreneurial ways. If you have 7+ years experience with planning house parties and restaurant events and a history of successful major gift solicitation at the $10,000 or higher level please apply. Last day to apply: July 13, 2007 For more info, see:� http://www.idealist.org/en/job/227187-246

Freelance Writer, Grace, New York, NY

Youth Horticulture Coordinator/Educator, Poughkeepsie, NY

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Dutchess County seeks a coordinator for its youth development program. The chosen candidate will provide educational, technical, work and life skills to under served youth through in-school, after school and summer venues, with the focus on horticulture and gardening. Last day to apply: June 30, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/223098-108

Temporary Copywriter, Oxfam America, Boston, MA

Oxfam America is dedicated to creating lasting solutions to hunger, poverty, and social injustice through long-term partnerships with poor communities around the world. It seeks a temporary copywriter responsible for creating copy for a variety of Oxfam America campaign and outreach publications and web pages. Last day to apply: July 31, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/224490-216

Program Coordinator, Share Our Strength, Boston, MA

Share Our Strength’s Operation Frontline� is a groundbreaking nutrition-education program that helps low-income families help themselves by teaching them how to prepare healthy, low-cost meals. The Program Coordinator works closely with the Operation Frontline Boston Program Manager to coordinate, implement, support, and strengthen all aspects of the Operation Frontline program in Boston. Last day to apply: July 30, 2007 http://www.idealist.org/en/job/224327-120

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY

NEW HAMPSHIRE INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT GRANT

ORGANIC FARMING RESEARCH FOUNDATION GRANT

The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) is offering grants, up to $15,000, to projects that address any agricultural production, social, economic, or policy-related topic of concern to organic farmers and/or ranchers. OFRF supports research that is relevant to and takes place in certified organic systems. Due date: July 16, 2007 For more info, see: http://ofrf.org/grants/apply.html

CONNECTICUT AGRICULTURE VIABILITY GRANT

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

New York Farmland Protection Implementation Projects

Pennsylvania Agricultural Product Promotion Grants

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has funds available for its Agricultural Product Promotion Matching Grants. These grants provide matching funds for projects that increase consumer awareness of Pennsylvania agricultural products. These grants are awarded to Pennsylvania non-profit agriculture product promotion or marketing organizations to help fund promotion and marketing projects, educational programs, and trade show participation. Due date: July 10, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/agriculture/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=128593

Conservation Innovation Grants—Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Office of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced a second round of requests for proposals for Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG), for 2007. Grants of up to $75,000 are available to fund creative ideas and practices that will conserve soil, water and energy resources or improve air quality, grazing land and forest health in Rhode Island.

Due date: July 6, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.ri.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/RICIG_2007.html

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Roger Doiron, NEFOOD Listserve administrator, roger@nesawg.org

Farm Bill priorities #8, #9, and #10: healthy foods for all

2007-06-12T20:00:51Z

Background: The Northeast has an unprecedented opportunity to shape the 2007 Farm Bill to be more responsive to our region. Groups from across the Northeast have been working together to agree on and advance ten “must have” policy priorities. These are parts 8, 9 and 10 of a 10-part series in which we look at each priority in more detail. The full Agenda is available at www.northeastagworks.org. Priority 8: Assure food security for all Northeast citizens. Priority 9: Promote access to fresh, local and culturally appropriate foods. Priority 10: Encourage and promote programs that reflect national health goals and nutrition guidelines. How does the Northeast fare in terms of food security, food access and nutrition? Approximately 12% of N.E. population lives in poverty (equally distributed between rural and urban communities) while over 9% of N.E. households are food insecure. All 12 N.E. states have seen a rise in Food Stamp Program participation rates over the past decade, yet five of them rank in the lowest 11 states nationwide in terms of rate of Food Stamp participation. Too many eligible people in our region— especially working poor and elderly persons—are missing out on benefits. Similarly, many Northeast communities—urban and rural—do not have access to healthful and culturally appropriate foods because they lack supermarkets and other retail food outlets as well as farmers markets. This limits their ability to improve their diets and overall health. On average, the percent of overweight people in the N.E. is higher than the national average. Why is it important to increase Northeast food security, access and good nutrition? Increasing access to locally and regionally produced foods serves the dual purpose of building healthier diets for Northeast citizens and markets for its producers. Local and regional food systems can provide more diverse, healthful food choices for consumers while building connections between urban, suburban and rural communities in the N.E. Regional and community food security also helps reduce dependence on oil and long-distance transport of food products. Our diverse producers can respond to the growing demand for ethnic variety and differentiated products. With the close proximity of its farms to markets, the Northeast has distinct advantages to meet more of its needs for healthy, fresh and regionally-sourced foods. How can the 2007 Farm Bill help more people in the Northeast access fresh, healthy, regional and culturally appropriate foods and achieve nutrition goals? While nearly half of the $90 billion spent annually on the Farm Bill goes towards food stamps and nutrition programs including school lunches, many people — including children and seniors — still fall through the holes of the federal nutrition safety net. Reaching a greater percentage of those in need means increasing the amount of funds for federal food assistance programs, and flexibility as to how they are used. The Northeast has shown leadership and creativity in response to the USDA Community Food Projects grant program, farm-to-school initiatives and implementation of the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) and Senior and WIC FMNP. The 2007 Farm Bill offers an opportunity to build upon these efforts. The Farm Bill also should strengthen The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and Nutrition Education programs. It should encourage farmers’ markets, farm stands and other direct marketing links with consumers. It should foster urban food growing, school gardens and local procurement efforts.

Previous fact sheets in this series are available here:
1. Provide Appropriate Safety Net and Risk Management Tools for Northeast Farmers (pdf) (html) 2. Foster economic and regional market development (pdf) (html) 3. Support the Northeast Dairy Industry (pdf) (html) 4. Provide incentives for regionally appropriate farm energy production and efficiency (pdf) (html) 5. Significantly increase funding for working lands conservation programs (pdf) (html) 6. Increase conservation program flexibility and technical assistance (pdf) (html)

Potluck News: June 2007

2007-06-04T19:13:19Z

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

An even better Farm Bill

The 2007 Farm Bill: Cultivating saner policy

Think global, grow local

NEWS:

Congress approves FY07 supplemental appropriations with CSP uncapped and MILC extended

Chesapeake provision included in initial draft of House's Farm Bill

Massachusetts announces agriculture grants

Vermont egg farm pursues cage free niche

EVENTS:

6/1-3: Strolling of the Heifers, Brattleboro, VT

6/2: The Role of the Horse in the Farm Organism, Chestnut Ridge, NY

6/10-8/17: Vermont Sustainable Agriculture Semester, Craftsbury Common,VT

6/16: Connecticut Community Gardening Conference, New Haven, CT

6/23-26: American Forage and Grassland Council Annual Meeting, State College, PA

6/28-29: FoodMed--Conference on Local, Sustainable Healthcare Food, Boston, MA

7/11-14: 2nd National Conference on Facilitating Sustainable Agriculture Education, Ithaca, NY

8/10-12: Annual NOFA Summer Conference, Amherst, MA

9/21-23: Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

OPPORTUNITIES:

Youth Horticulture Coordinator/Educator, Poughkeepsie, NY

Temporary Copywriter, Oxfam America, Boston, MA

Program Coordinator, Share Our Strength, Boston, MA

Director for Boston Collaborative for Food and Fitness, Boston, MA

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

New York Conservation Innovation Grant

New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Grant

Organic Farming Research Foundation Grant

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

*******************

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

*******************

Editor’s note: You know the Farm Bill debate is heating up when the Bill is mentioned in the editorial pages of three of the region’s largest papers in the same week.

AN EVEN BETTER FARM BILL

(New York Times) - For years, reform-minded legislators have been trying to rid the country of a farm subsidy program that lavishes huge amounts of money on relatively few producers, compromises the environment, penalizes third-world farmers and fouls up trade negotiations. With the farm bill set to expire this year, the Bush administration has already proposed several excellent reforms. Now legislators in both houses are offering another approach that actually improves on the administration’s. Read the full article here: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/28/opinion/28mon2.html

THE 2007 FARM BILL: CULTIVATING SANER POLICY

(Philadelphia Inquirer) - Congress isn't very good at big bills - those phone-book-sized proposals to transform policy on energy, transportation, immigration, or Social Security. It's especially tough when new thinking is required. In complex bills, everybody wants something. Interest groups ramp up; lobbying is intense. Priorities fall victim to horsetrading. In the end, bills often are drained of meaning, and bloated fiscally. Reform hopes evaporate. Those dangers lurk as House and Senate subcommittees craft the 2007 farm bill, which must pass by Sept. 30. Too much is at stake for Congress to revert to bad habits this time. The farm bill covers aid to farmers, fair trade, nutrition for the poor, conservation, agricultural research, energy policy, forestry, and rural development. Predictably, various interests are competing for a cut of a limited pool of money. Read the full article here: http://www.philly.com/philly/opinion/7760167.html

THINK GLOBAL, GROW LOCAL

(Boston Globe) - I do not agree with Samuel Johnson that remarriage is the triumph of hope over experience. That dubious triumph belongs to the gardener, not the bride and groom. By the time the seed catalog comes through my urban door slot in midwinter, I have forgotten last summer's yellow wilt, the invasion of the monster tomato worms, and the enemy battalions of weeds. I have a dim memory of the bittersweet vine -- the bane of my existence -- or of my own slacker's performance as a farmer. Read the full article here: http://tinyurl.com/ywd8mm

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NEWS

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Congress Approves FY07 Supplemental Appropriations with CSP Uncapped and MILC ExtenDED

(Sustainable Agriculture Coalition) – Last week, Congress approved a $120 billion FY2007 Supplemental Appropriations bill (H.R. 2206), which includes $17 billion in domestic funding. President Bush said he will sign the bill this time, after vetoing the first version earlier. The good news is that the bill removes for FY2007 the cap on Conservation Security Program (CSP) funding imposed in the FY 2006 and 2007 regular appropriations act. This will give CSP sufficient funds for the 51 watershed sign-up announced by USDA to go forward and allow the contract modifications from earlier year contracts to be finalized and for payments to start. In addition, the supplemental extends the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program for one month through September 30, 2007, which means the program funding can be included in the budget baseline for the next farm bill without requiring offsets. The bill also included about $3 billion for an agriculture disaster assistance package.

Chesapeake provision included in initial draft of House's Farm Bill

(Chesapeake Bay Journal) - The Bay region took the first step toward getting a bigger slice of the Farm Bill pie in May when the initial draft of the Farm Bill in the House Agriculture Committee included a special provision to help the Chesapeake.It would establish a “Chesapeake Bay Program for Nutrient Reduction and Sediment Control” that would be authorized to spend a total of $100 million over five years to control nutrient and sediment from farms in the watershed.The money would be used to implement a comprehensive plan, to be written by the U.S. agriculture secretary in consultation with the states and other federal agencies, to improve water quality in the Bay, restore habitats and increase economic opportunity for farmers and rural communities. Full article here: http://www.bayjournal.com/article.cfm?article=3106

MASSACHUSETTS ANNOUNCES AGRICULTURE GRANTS

(Springfield Republican) - Gov. Deval L. Patrick recently announced $2.7 million in grants to boost the state's agricultural industry including money for training immigrant farmers in Holyoke and building a demonstration winery at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. The university received more than $500,000 in grants for several programs. Nuestras Raices, a nonprofit organization based in Holyoke, received $77,000 to provide training, technical support and marketing to immigrants and minorities interested in farming. Another $55,000 went to UMass-Amherst to develop a small-scale winery and cider production facility. The university will develop innovative methods for wine, juice and cider production and help people establish new wineries. The Amherst campus also netted $185,000 to develop management strategies for increased grain production. The money will also be used for developing strategies for increasing nutrients in animal feed and achieving cost savings in dairy and livestock production. A grant for $170,000 went to the Amherst campus for developing tools and practices to help farmers who raise livestock in pastures. A grant of $71,500 was awarded to the Amherst campus for studying ways to improve pollination for cranberry production and to cope with a possible loss of honey bees. The state also provided $300,000 to rebuild a federally-inspected slaughterhouse in Athol, which helps producers capitalize on the market for locally-produced meat. Fire destroyed the facility in December. Also, Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture, a nonprofit organization in the South Deerfield section of Deerfield that links farmers and communities in western Massachusetts, received $117,000 to develop business opportunities for bagged salad greens and Massachusetts-produced organic and conventional dairy products.

Vermont Egg farm pursues cage free niche

(Burlington Free Press) - When Maple Meadow Farm was started six decades ago, hens ran free in the coop and George Devoid delivered the eggs by bicycle. Today, Maple Meadow eggs are delivered by truck. The farm, now run by the second generation of Devoids, has taken a step back in time, converting part of its operation to the way it used to be -- cage-free. The farm that first turned to cages to remain competitive is letting the birds out again for the same reason, owner Jackie Devoid said. Full article here: http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070527/BUSINESS/705270302/1003/NEWS05

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EVENTS

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6/1-3

STROLLING OF THE HEIFERS, BRATTLEBORO, VT

The Sixth Annual Strolling of the Heifers Parade and Festival includes a variety of events highlighting local foods and farms, such as all-local meals and farm tours. For more info, see:

http://www.strollingoftheheifers.org/index.php

6/2

THE ROLE OF THE HORSE IN THE FARM ORGANISM, CHESTNUT RIDGE, NY

The Pfeiffer Center presents this event as part of its series of spring workshops. The workshop will cover the basic nature and care of the horse, harness and equipment. Participants will work with grooming, harnessing and undertake a variety of practical tasks including logging, plowing, discing, and working raised beds. For more info, see:

http://www.pfeiffercenter.org/workshops/index.asp

6/10-8/17

VERMONT SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE SEMESTER, CRAFTSBURY COMMON,VT

The Sterling College Sustainable Agriculture Semester immerses students in the daily rhythms and realities of farming. The Sustainable Agriculture Semester is a 6-8 credit integrated program of work and study exploring ecological management of plants, animals, and land. Classroom instruction, hands-on training, and work on the farm are combined to teach sustainable practices and to foster discussion about agricultural issues. For more info, see: http://www.sterlingcollege.edu/AD.summerfarm.html

6/16

Connecticut Community Gardening Conference, New Haven, CT

Growing Healthy Food & Healthy Communities in Connecticut. A Community Gardening Conference in the Elm City. For more info, see

http://ctcommunitygardening.org/events/media/2007ConferenceBrochure.pdf

6/23-26

AMERICAN FORAGE AND GRASSLAND COUNCIL ANNUAL MEETING, STATE COLLEGE, PA

The Pennsylvania Forage and Grassland Council and Penn State University will host the joint 2007 American Forage and Grassland Council. For more info, see:

http://www.afgc.org/mc/community/eventdetails.do?eventId=109954

6/28-29

FoodMed--Conference on Local, Sustainable Healthcare Food, Boston, MA

7/11-14

2nd National Conference on Facilitating Sustainable Agriculture Education, Ithaca, NY

With a team of trained facilitators in real-time participatory techniques such as World Café and Open Space Technology, the conference will consist of a series of focused group discussions, participant-driven workshops, and short presentations. As complement to the real-time participant-driven workshops, sessions will also be organized to: 1) explore innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to learning and teaching that are applicable to sustainable agriculture; 2) share curricula and teaching experiences from developing or established programs; 3) provide a forum for exchanging resources and materials; 4) strategize resourceful ways of starting and maintaining sustainable agriculture education programs and farms; and, 5) formally launch the Post-Secondary Sustainable Agriculture Education Association (SAEA). For more info, see: http://www.hort.cornell.edu/SustAgEd/

8/10-12

ANNUAL NOFA SUMMER CONFERENCE, AMHERST, MA

9/21-23

Common Ground Country Fair, Unity, ME

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OPPORTUNITIES

*******************

Youth Horticulture Coordinator/Educator, Poughkeepsie, NY

Temporary Copywriter, Oxfam America, Boston, MA

Program Coordinator, Share Our Strength, Boston, MA

Share Our Strength’s Operation Frontline® is a groundbreaking nutrition-education program that helps low-income families help themselves by teaching them how to prepare healthy, low-cost meals. The Program Coordinator works closely with the Operation Frontline Boston Program Manager to coordinate, implement, support, and strengthen all aspects of the Operation Frontline program in Boston. Last day to apply: July 30, 2007 http://www.idealist.org/en/job/224327-120

DIRECTOR FOR BOSTON COLLABORATIVE FOR FOOD AND FITNESS, BOSTON, MA

Be part of an exciting Boston collaborative that aims to create systemic change in the areas of food and fitness to improve the lives and health of all residents. Through this collaborative, the demand for and availability of local fresh food will be doubled; residents in all neighborhoods and of all incomes will have access to affordable healthy food; and youth will be civically engaged and their thinking will integrate the relationship between eating healthy food, a physically active lifestyle and good health. Last day to apply: June 26, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/219887-8

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY

NEW YORK CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANT

The New York Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) requests applications for Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies. Grants up to $75,000 will be awarded. Due date: June 1, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=13259

NEW HAMPSHIRE INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT GRANT

ORGANIC FARMING RESEARCH FOUNDATION GRANT

CONNECTICUT AGRICULTURE VIABILITY GRANT

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

Farm Bill fact priorities #6 and 7#: Provide greater conservation program flexbility and technical assistance

2007-05-16T15:26:23Z

Background: The Northeast has an unprecedented opportunity to shape the 2007 Farm Bill to be more responsive to our region. Groups from across the Northeast have been working together to agree on and advance ten “must have” policy priorities. These are parts 6 and 7 of a 10-part series in which we look at each priority in more detail. The full Agenda is available at www.northeastagworks.org. Priority 6: Provide appropriate conservation program flexibility to address national, state and local resource concerns and priorities. Priority 7: Provide more technical assistance with greater flexibility in how it can be used. Why is program flexibility important for the Northeast? Northeast farms have unique characteristics and needs. They are on average ¼ the size of farms nationally, with diverse climate, soils and production systems. The Northeast region needs farm and forest conservation programs that are flexible enough to address resource challenges specific to a state or region. A one-size-fits-all approach inhibits innovation and often ignores state- or multi-state-level conservation priorities and resource concerns. Northeast states that direct state resources toward water and air quality concerns, combating sprawl and protecting working lands should be recognized by -- and work in tandem with -- federal conservation programs. How has the Northeast fared in past Farm Bills in terms of conservation funding and technical assistance? Conservation funding historically has been unevenly distributed across regions. Eligibility rules make some programs (e.g., CRP, WRP) less attractive to most Northeast producers. The 2002 Farm Bill acknowledged and addressed inequities with a “regional equity” provision that targeted Northeast (and several other) “underserved” states with additional dollars for certain conservation programs. The Conservation Security Program (CSP) was introduced in the 2002 Farm Bill. It is a “green payment” entitlement program that theoretically rewards all farmers – regardless of where or what they produce -- for their conservation activities. Funding constraints along with certain eligibility rules and formulas have thus far limited CSP’s broad value to Northeast producers. Similarly, federal spending for the Conservation Technical Assistance Program and technical assistance from Farm Bill programs have not adequately met Northeast producers’ needs. What changes are needed in the next Farm Bill to address the Northeast’s needs? The 2007 Farm Bill offers a critical opportunity to increase the amount of conservation funds and technical assistance services that Northeast farmers can access. Among the proposals put forward are ones to increase funding for programs like CSP, the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), and the Conservation Technical Assistance Program. These increases in funding must be accompanied by increased flexibility in the Farm Bill rule-making and implementation processes. Given the typical Northeast farm’s numerous, small fields and diversity of soil types and other natural resource conditions, delivery of technical assistance for Farm Bill programs such as CSP is often significantly more complex than for the type of farm operations found in the Midwest. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) staff in the region should have the funds, tools, and flexibility they need to serve the region’s diverse farms and farmers.

Previous fact sheets in this series are available here:
1. Provide Appropriate Safety Net and Risk Management Tools for Northeast Farmers (pdf) (html)
2. Foster economic and regional market development (pdf) (html)
3. Support the Northeast Dairy Industry (pdf) (html)
4. Provide incentives for regionally appropriate farm energy production and efficiency (pdf) (html)
5. Significantly increase funding for working lands conservation programs (pdf) (html)

Farm Bill fact sheet #5: Significantly increase funding for working lands conservation programs

2007-05-09T16:44:31Z

Background: The Northeast has an unprecedented opportunity to shape the 2007 Farm Bill to be more responsive to our region. Groups from across the Northeast have been working together to agree on and advance ten “must have” policy priorities. This is part 5 of a 10-part series in which we look at each priority in more detail. The full Agenda is available at www.northeastagworks.org. Priority 5: Significantly increase funding for working lands conservation programs How are “working lands conservation programs” different from other conservation programs? Working lands conservation programs focus on lands in agricultural production. Other conservation programs are referred to as “set-aside” or “retirement” programs which take land out of production -- for example, the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). In the Northeast, our land base is so tight that set-aside programs are not very popular. Working lands conservation programs help producers and farmland owners by funding conservation and preservation activities on active land. These programs include: Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP); Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP); Conservation Security Program (CSP); Forest Lands Enhancement Program (FLEP), Forest Legacy Program (FLP) and a few others. Why are these programs important to the Northeast? Northeast producers want to practice conservation on their working lands. Because the majority of N.E. farms and farmland are around metropolitan areas, farm conservation programs provide multiple benefits—helping farmers meet conservation goals and improve farm economic viability, while addressing environmental regulations and providing critical environmental, recreational and cultural benefits to millions of people. According to the last Census of Agriculture, the Northeast is losing farmland at a faster rate on average than the U.S. Less than 19 million acres of cropland and pasture remain in the Northeast, representing just 14.5% o the region’s total land area. With a regional average of over 60% of the region’s land base in forest (over twice the national average), working private forests are a critically important part of the landscape. Where farm and forest land values and development pressures are high, conservation programs such as FRPP and FLP help protect land from development. Why are we asking for increased funding for conservation programs? Quite simply, the demand for conservation assistance programs in the Northeast far exceeds the available funds. Also, many federal conservation programs do not directly meet our region’s needs. As mentioned above, the CRP, which currently constitutes 68% of all farm conservation program spending, does not work well for most of the Northeast. On the whole, the Northeast is underserved by current federal conservation efforts. While 22% of farmers nationally receive conservation payments, just 8% of Northeast benefit from these critical programs. The “regional equity” provision in the last Farm Bill helped to address this inequity by guaranteeing a baseline of funding to “under-served” states. What can the next Farm Bill do to strengthen the Northeast’s conservation efforts? The 2007 Farm Bill offers an opportunity to increase the amount of funds available for conservation purposes and to tailor national programs to address regional needs more effectively and more equitably. All states should receive a minimum base funding allocation for working lands conservation programs. Allocation formulas should reflect states’ characteristics such as population density, intensity of land use, land values, cost of conservation practices, and state matching funds. Annual expenditures (authorizations and appropriations) should increase for federal farm and forest conservation programs that are most in demand and most effective in the Northeast.

Building advocacy capacity: a new NESAWG service

2007-05-07T16:22:05Z

• Does your organization want to get more involved in public policy advocacy? • Would you like to have a greater policy impact at the local, state or national level? • Would your board & staff like to get clearer on your policy priorities & activity options? NESAWG’s Building Advocacy Capacity can help groups working on food, farming and related issues to introduce or better incorporate policy advocacy activities into their work. We’ll help build your group’s presence and power in policy change to: • Serve your mission; • Promote constructive dialogue on public issues; • Increase your organization’s impact; and • Engage your constituents. The Method We offer an intensive half- or full-day training that will help you: • Understand terms and concepts about policy education, advocacy and lobbying; • Clarify your advocacy objectives; • Create criteria and participatory processes for prioritizing and addressing issues; • Develop a concrete plan to participate effectively in your chosen advocacy arenas; and • Move your members and constituents to direct citizen action. We’ll work with you in advance to prepare and tailor the training to your needs. Training participants can be board members, staff, policy or education committees or any combination. We can provide follow-up support services identified through the training process. The Result Your organization will be better able to conduct effective public policy advocacy activities. Your staff and board will feel clearer, more secure and more empowered to proceed with decisions and actions. You will be more effective in reaching your members, constituents and public and in mobilizing their participation in farm and food issues that are important to you. Eligible Groups To benefit most effectively from this opportunity, organizations should: • Have a grassroots orientation; • Be able to bring various sectors’ interests to the table; • Demonstrate a commitment to diversity; • Possess accountable governance and dedication to leadership development; and • Show interest in exploring regional perspectives on agriculture and food systems. Organization Time Commitment • 1-2 hours in outreach, selection and scheduling of training participants • 2-4 hours preparation to tailor training and absorb background materials • 4-8 hours training session • 4-6 hours follow up work to document group’s discussion, decisions and next steps Follow-up Services For groups that wish further assistance in moving forward on their policy advocacy agenda, we can negotiate and provide the following types of services: • Help groups design activities (e.g., a public forum series, a grassroots lobbying effort, a social message campaign, a letter to the editor) • Research and synthesize positions, perspectives and opportunities for specific policies • Advise groups on getting and staying informed on issues • Prepare organizations to take positions • Represent organizations in advocacy arenas Background In 2006 NESAWG developed, piloted and refined a flexible training curriculum and support services to help member and other grassroots groups become more engaged and effective in transforming public policy. Led by Kathy Ruhf and Kathy Lawrence, this effort was part of a larger initiative to prepare groups for greater participation in the 2007 Farm Bill deliberations. Between them, Kathy and Kathy have over 40 years’ experience fostering grassroots participation in agriculture and food system change. Kathy Ruhf has coordinated NESAWG since 1992 and is a food systems policy specialist. Kathy Lawrence directed both the National Campaign for Sustainable Agriculture and Just Food (in New York City). Each has led scores of workshops and dialogues on agriculture, food, and public policy issues. Groups that participated in our pilot workshops significantly increased their understanding of policy advocacy principles, terms and options. They strengthened their cohesiveness and sense of purpose around public issues among Board members, staff and stakeholders. Pilot groups also highlighted the importance of collaborating in grassroots networks on advocacy efforts. Across the board, pilot participants noted the value of having a framework and skilled facilitation to make formerly overwhelming and amorphous discussions manageable and geared toward achievable actions. For more information, contact: Kathy Ruhf (413) 323-9878, nesawg@nesawg.org or Kathy Lawrence (845) 361-3205, klgardensong@hvc.rr.com

Potluck News: May 2007

2007-05-01T17:27:38Z

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Stalking the vegetannual: a roadmap to eating with the seasons

NEWS:

Farm Bill not just for farmers

Farm Bill likely to contains payment limits

WTO: US must cut agriculture subsidies to below $19 billion

What's killing the bees?

EVENTS:

5/4-5: Goatsmilk Cheesemaking Workshop, Tyler Hill, PA

5/12: Organic Orcharding Workshop, Unity, ME

5/12-13: New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Festival, Contoocook, NH

5/15: Practical Farm Skills Workshop-Organic Apples in Bloom, Concord, MA

5/15: Organic Farm Field Walk, Butler, PA

5/25-27: Allegheny Mountain Green Festival, Artemas, PA

6/1-3: Strolling of the Heifers, Brattleboro, VT

6/2: The Role of the Horse in the Farm Organism, Chestnut Ridge, NY

6/10-8/17: Vermont Sustainable Agriculture Semester, Craftsbury Common,VT

6/23-26: American Forage and Grassland Council Annual Meeting, State College, PA

8/10-12: Annual NOFA Summer Conference, Amherst, MA

OPPORTUNITIES:

Executive Director, The Food Project, Boston, MA

Director of Development, Center for Whole Communities, Fayston, VT

Outreach Coordinator, Waterkeeper Alliance, Irvington, NY

Director for Boston Collaborative for Food and Fitness, Boston, MA

Multiple Job Openings, The Food Trust, Philadelphia, PA

Multiple Job Openings, Community Food Resource Center, New York, NY

New York Conservation Innovation Grant

New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Grant

Organic Farming Research Foundation Grant

Value-Added Producer Grant

Rhode Island Conservation Innovation Grant

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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Stalking the Vegetannual: A Roadmap to Eating with the Seasons

(Orion Magazine) - Most people of my grandparents’ generation had an intuitive sense of agricultural basics: when various fruits and vegetables come into season, which ones keep through the winter, how to preserve the others. On what day autumn’s frost will likely fall on their county, and when to expect the last one in spring. Which crops can be planted before the last frost, and which must wait. What animals and vegetables thrive in one’s immediate region and how to live well on those, with little else thrown into the mix beyond a bag of flour, a pinch of salt, and a handful of coffee. Few people of my generation, and approximately none of our children, could answer any of those questions, let alone all of them. This knowledge has largely vanished from our culture. Read the full article here: http://www.orionmagazine.org/index.php/articles/article/239/

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NEWS

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Farm bill not just for farmers

(Philadelphia Enquirer) - There is a growing sense that when Congress passes the farm bill this year, farmers and environmental programs in states such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey could benefit. Most people think the farm bill is important only to the Midwestern states. But we all pay for its programs (likely $400 billion over the next six years) and should share in the funding. Full article here: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/local/20070430_Farm_bill_not_just_for_farmers.html

Farm bill likely to contains payment limits

(AP) - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns said the Bush administration plans to secure approval of a farm bill that will likely contain limits on farm payments before the end of the crop season. “I guess I’d be bold enough today to say this: I think you are going to get a payment limit proposal that will get to the finish line in this farm bill,” Johanns said Tuesday. The current farm bill expires Sept. 30. Congress enacts new farm legislation about every five years in re-sponse to changes in the agriculture industry. Under the proposed 2007 farm bill, President Bush is asking Congress to halt farm subsidies to wealthy farmers, drawing the line at anyone making more than $200,000 in adjusted gross income

US must cut agriculture subsidies to below $19 billion: WTO

(AFP) - The United States must cut domestic agricultural support and trade distorting measures to below 19 billion dollars (14 billion euros), the World Trade Organisation's chief negotiator on agriculture said on Monday. Crawford Falconer, the chairman of the WTO's special committee on agriculture, told the 150 member states it was "inconceivable" that Washington should be able to spend more on domestic support than the 19 billion dollars it is allowed now.The current US proposal tabled in deadlocked global trade talks would allow Washington domestic support worth 22 billion dollars, Falconer said in a discussion paper released to try to spark the negotiations. Full article here: http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070430/ts_afp/wtoustradefarm_070430160121

What's killing THE bees?

(Burlington Free Press) - These are difficult days for honey bees. Vermont's state insect, under siege by a deadly infestation of Asian varroa mites for nearly 20 years, faces yet another threat. In recent months, an estimated 25 percent of the 2.4 million honey bee colonies nationwide have been decimated, victims of an ailment scientists cannot pinpoint and beekeepers don't fully understand. The massive and sudden die-off, yet to be documented in northern New England, has been tagged "colony collapse disorder," and Vermont's honeymakers are bracing for its arrival. "None of our commercial operations have reported anything out of the ordinary as far as the causes of their winter losses," said Steve Parise, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture's apiculturist. "I don't know if it is coming. I sure hope not." Full article here: http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070429/NEWS01/704290311

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EVENTS

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5/4-5

Goatsmilk Cheesemaking Workshop, Tyler Hill, PA

Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture sponsors this two-day workshop with Linda Smith at Fallsdale Farm. Registration includes two full days of instruction and a notebook of recipes. For more info, see: http://www.pasafarming.org/eventCalendar.html

5/12

Organic Orcharding Workshop, Unity, ME

In this third installment of the Organic Orcharding Workshop Series presented by MOFGA, learn about late spring & early summer orchard care. Join several experts for an early-season exploration of organic disease and insect strategies, including lectures, discussions, question and answer periods inside and out. For more info, see:

http://www.mofga.org/Default.aspx?tabid=300

5/12-13

New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Festival, Contoocook, NH

This festival sponsored by the New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Growers' Association, will have a variety of activities for all to enjoy. There will be educational programs, a fleece and fiber sale, dog herding demo and trials, contests, commercial exhibitors and much more. For more info, see: http://www.yankeeshepherd.org/

5/15

Practical Farm Skills Workshop-Organic Apples in Bloom, Concord, MA

NOFA Massachusetts offers this opportunity to have Hutchins Farm's John Bemis teach you what he has learned about organic apple tree management: see the tools he uses to get a fairly predictable marketable crop, hear what has and has not worked well, tour the orchard when the apples are in bloom. For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org/calendar2/view_entry.php?id=17&date=20070514

5/15

Organic Farm Field Walk, Butler, PA

Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) will be hosting an evening field walk at Misera’s Organic Farm. Steve Misera and his family have been farming organically since 1998, and raise organic chickens, eggs, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats and hay, and are working on getting certification for their new beef operation. Steve sells his products to individuals, restaurants, CSA’s and at a Pittsburgh farmers’ market. Participants will also learn how to use the results of cover crop research on the farm. The cost is $10 for PASA members and $15 for all others, handouts and dinner included. To register for this event, call 814-349-9856.

5/25-27

Allegheny Mountain Green Festival, Artemas, PA

"Exploring Our Future in an Age of Limits" is the conference theme, with sessions focused on Peak Oil, Global Climate Change, and Sustainable Agriculture. For more info, see: http://www.amgf.org/

6/1-3

Strolling of the Heifers, Brattleboro, VT

The Sixth Annual Strolling of the Heifers Parade and Festival includes a variety of events highlighting local foods and farms, such as all-local meals and farm tours. For more info, see:

http://www.strollingoftheheifers.org/index.php

6/2

The Role of the Horse in the Farm Organism, Chestnut Ridge, NY

http://www.pfeiffercenter.org/workshops/index.asp

6/10-8/17

Vermont Sustainable Agriculture Semester, Craftsbury Common,VT

6/23-26

American Forage and Grassland Council Annual Meeting, State College, PA

The Pennsylvania Forage and Grassland Council and Penn State University will host the joint 2007 American Forage and Grassland Council. For more info, see:

http://www.afgc.org/mc/community/eventdetails.do?eventId=109954

8/10-12

Annual NOFA Summer Conference, Amherst, MA
The 33rd Annual NOFA Summer Conference will take place Aug. 10-12, 2007 on the organic farmer-friendly campus of Hampshire College. Keynote speakers include Bill McKibben and Hazel Henderson. For more info, see: http://www.nofamass.org/conferences/s2007/index.php

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OPPORTUNITIES

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Executive Director, The Food Project, Boston, MA

The Food Project seeks an energetic, committed, charismatic, creative Executive Director who will lead the organization into its next phase of development. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the successful candidate will be the overarching leader of the organization as well as a seasoned fundraising ambassador for the organization. Last day to apply: May 30, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/210517-50

Director of Development, Center for Whole Communities, Fayston, VT

Center for Whole Communities is a vibrant and thriving organization bridging the environmental and social change arenas. We seek broad change through building stronger connections between people, land and community. We are based on a working organic farm in the Mad River Valley of Vermont and have a national scope through our alumni and programs across the country. Whole Communities is a forerunner in advancing an integrated practice of conservation leadership and community restoration. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to serve as our Director of Development, coordinating our fundraising activities. Last day to apply: May 31, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/218748-31

Outreach Coordinator, Waterkeeper Alliance, Irvington, NY

Waterkeeper seeks an outreach coordinator to organize grassroots action against factory farms, coordinate campaign-related events and activities with Waterkeeper Alliance member programs and partners, develop and distribute educational and outreach materials, and provide general advocacy support for the Chesapeake Poultry Initiative. Last day to apply: May 26, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.idealist.org/en/job/215796-147

Director for Boston Collaborative for Food and Fitness, Boston, MA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, FOODCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY

New York Conservation Innovation Grant

New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Grant

Organic Farming Research Foundation Grant

Value-Added Producer Grant
The primary objective of this grant program is to help eligible independent producers of agricultural commodities, agricultural producer groups, farmer and rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures develop strategies to create marketing opportunities and to help develop business plans for viable marketing opportunities. These grants will facilitate greater participation in emerging markets and new markets for value-added products. Grants will only be awarded if projects or ventures are determined to be economically viable and sustainable. Due date: May 16, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=7374

Rhode Island Conservation Innovation Grant
The purpose of CIG is to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies. CIG projects are expected to lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches (such as market-based systems) into NRCS technical manuals or guides, or to the private sector. CIG funds projects targeting innovative on-the-ground conservation, including pilot projects and field demonstrations. Due date: May 18, 2007 for more infi, see: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=13518&mode=VIEW

Connecticut Agriculture Viability Grant

Due date: November 16, 2007 For more info, see: http://www.ct.gov/doag/cwp/view.asp?a=1368&q=317242

2007 Farm Bill Resources

2007-04-11T18:30:35Z

Farm support, food assistance, agricultural trade and marketing, conservation, and rural development are among the list of policies and programs encompassed by the federal Farm Bill. Congress is expected to enact a new Farm Bill in 2007 which will have profound impacts on the Northeast -- our food, farms, communities, and people. Historically, the Northeast has been underserved by federal farm policy. NESAWG is working with its members and partners for a new Farm Bill that is equitable and more responsive to the unique characteristics of our region. This page contains resources for education and action on federal food and farm policy issues. Like the Farm Bill itself, it is a work in progress. Please check back from time to time to see what’s new. About regionalism and the Northeast: - A Northeast Farm Bill Agenda (full document) - Northeast Ag Works! Project - A Northeast Farm Bill Agenda (one-page summary) - Northeast Ag Works! Project - Regionalist Approaches to Farm and Food System Policy: A Focus on the Northeast - Northeast Ag Works! Project - Are We Being Served? A Regional Framework for U.S. Farm and Food Policy - Northeast Ag Works! Project - Are We Being Served? A Policy Checklist - Northeast Ag Works! Project - Northeast Farms to Food 2006 Update; A Focus on the Farm Bill - NESAWG - Repositioning Northeastern Agriculture – New Jersey Department of Agriculture 2007 Farm Bill policy recommendations from advocacy organizations: - Seeking Balance in U.S. Farm and Food Policy - Farm and Food Policy Project - No Time for Delay (executive summary) - Midwest Sustainable Agriculture Working Group/Sustainable Agriculture Coalition - Farm and Food Policy for All - American Farmland Trust - Fairness in the Field – Oxfam America - 2007 Farm Bill Recommendations - Organics Committee, National Campaign for Sustainable Agriculture - Ways to improve America’s farm and food policies – Environmental Defense - Farm Bill Principles – National Association of Conservation Districts - 2007 Farm Bill Recommendations – National Association of State Departments of Agriculture - Putting Food into Farming: How to Fix the Farm Bill - Bread for the World - 21st Century Rural America: New Horizons for U.S. Agriculture – Farm Credit Council - The 2007 Farm Bill: U.S. Producer Preferences for Agricultural, Food, and Public Policy – The Farm Foundation - Summary of Farmer Comments from Farm Bill Listening Sessions - National Farmers Union - Farm Bill Policy Statement – National Family Farm Coalition Government resources - Farm Bill Issues: USDA's Economic Research Service - Farm Bill online comment form - Audio Transcripts from Regional Hearings - USDA Farm Bill theme papers Farm Bill primers and background reading: - Previewing a 2007 Farm Bill (An excellent in depth – 55 page - overview by the Congressional Research Service, January 2006) - The “Farm Bill” in Brief (A 4-page summary of the Farm Bill titles by Congressional Research Service, March 2006) - 2007 Farm Bill Food Stamp Reauthorization info - Food Research and Action Center - The 2007 Farm Bill in Context (A useful, short – 12 page - sum-up of Farm Bill issues by the Southern Legislative Conference - June 2006) - Farm Bill: From A to Z (an online glossary of Farm Bill terms and their meanings by the USDA’s Agriculture Research Service) - The Non-Wonk Guide to Understanding Federal Commodity Payments (A helpful 30-page guide to the complex world of commodity payments by Rural Advancement Foundation International, 2005) - Farmbillprimer.org (A privately maintained blog of all things Farm Bill with some very interesting graphics showing Farm Bill expenditure) - Farm Commodity Programs: A Short Primer ( A 6-page report from the Congressional Research Service, February 2005)

NESAWG

Potluck News: December 2007

Civic Agriculture = Sane Housing, by Nevin Cohen, printed in The Nation

Help build a better Farm Bill...in 5 minutes or less

Potluck News: November 2007

Potluck News: October 2007

Let the East bloom again

Let the East Bloom Again

Potluck News: September 2007

Assessing the House farm bill

Organic

Other

The gaps

Environmental

Potluck News: August 2007

Potluck News: July 2007

Farm Bill priorities #8, #9, and #10: healthy foods for all

Potluck News: June 2007

Farm Bill fact priorities #6 and 7#: Provide greater conservation program flexbility and technical assistance

Farm Bill fact sheet #5: Significantly increase funding for working lands conservation programs

Building advocacy capacity: a new NESAWG service

Potluck News: May 2007

2007 Farm Bill Resources