Morning Ag Clips logo
  • Subscribe ❯
  • PORTAL ❯
  • LOGIN ❯
  • By Keyword
  • By topic
  • By state
  • Home
  • Events
  • Jobs
  • Store
  • Advertise
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Subscribe to our
    daily email
    ❯
  • Portal Registration❯
  • Login❯
  • policy
  • tractors & machinery
  • education
  • conservation
  • webinars
  • business
  • dairy
  • cattle
  • poultry
  • swine
  • corn
  • soybeans
  • organic
  • specialty crops
  • Alabama
  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

Morning Ag Clips

  • By Keyword
  • By topic
  • By state
  • policy
  • tractors & machinery
  • education
  • conservation
  • webinars
  • business
  • dairy
  • cattle
  • poultry
  • swine
  • corn
  • soybeans
  • organic
  • specialty crops
  • Home
  • Events
  • Jobs
  • Store
  • Advertise
Home » You searched for community supported agriculture

Compeer Financial awards 64 county fair grants

May 18, 2022 by Kyle

SUN PRAIRIE, Wis. — Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America, the Farm Credit cooperative’s giving program, is supporting county fairs with grants to improve facilities and experiences offered to rural communities across the Upper Midwest. Sixty-four fairs received County Fair Facility Upgrade Grants this year, totaling $244,500.

“Our aim with these grants is to positively impact the future of our rural communities,” said Karen Schieler, senior corporate giving specialist at Compeer Financial. “Fairs are the highlight of summer for many of these communities and we hope this will help provide the best possible experience for exhibitors and visitors as they enjoy this important tradition.”

Since the program was established in 2018, the Fund has awarded 304 County Fair Facility Upgrade Grants for a total impact of over $944,742, touching the lives of 8.7 million fair organizers, participants and attendees. The Fund intends to offer this grant again in March 2023.

The 64 organizations in Compeer Financial’s territory receiving support from the County Fair Facility Upgrade Grant Program include:

Illinois

  • Henderson County Fair Association: new gutters for the livestock barn
  • Henry County Fair Association: painting the swine, sheep and goat show barn
  • Jo Daviess County Agricultural Society: repurposing one of the livestock buildings to a show ring, including new barn lime, replacing boards and electrical
  • Kane County Fair: replacing siding on the rabbit and poultry barns
  • Kankakee County Fair & Exposition, Inc.: purchasing lumber, cages and wire to construct new pens for the poultry barns and repairing or replacing pens in the rabbit barn
  • Kendall County Fair Association Inc.: electric service upgrades to the 4-H livestock pavilion
  • Knox County Agricultural Board & Fair Association dba Knox County Fair: upgrades to the roof and replacing doors on the livestock area restroom, and the livestock area pavilion roof and pillars
  • Lee County Fair Association: purchasing and installing large ceiling fans over the show rings
  • Livingston County Ag Fair: updating electrical wiring in the beef and dairy cattle barns
  • Marshall-Putnam Fair Association: hog barn roof and building repairs
  • McDonough County 4-H Buildings & Grounds Corporation: complete electrical framework installation and PA system the livestock show arena
  • Ogle County Fair Association: replacing electrical outlets, repairing conduct and replacing breakers in barns, replacing wooden electrical panel mounts with metal mounts, and installing underground conduct for new transformer
  • Rock Island County Agricultural Fair Association: installing concrete flooring in the calf birthing barn
  • Sandwich Fair Association, Inc.: replacing rotten boards, preparation for and painting of the swine barn
  • Stephenson County Fair Association: updating the electrical in the barns
  • The Warren County Agricultural Fair Assoc.: updating electrical wiring and capacity in the livestock barns and judging arenas
  • Veterans Memorial Fair Association: repairing guttering and drainage for the covered walkway between the livestock buildings and the livestock review building
  • Western Illinois Fair Association: updating lighting and electric with a new service panel, and replacing water lines in livestock barns
  • Whiteside County Central Agricultural Society: repairing structural posts and exterior boards in beef and dairy barns
  • Winnebago County Fair Association: replacing roof support posts, repainting, and replacing pen gates in the sheep barn

Minnesota

  • Benton County 4-H: updating bulletin boards, fixing swine gates, adding panels in livestock stalls, signage for poultry and rabbits, show tables, signs and a new roof to Little Red Barn, boards in the 4-H exhibit building and signage
  • Brown County Free Fair: installing new cement at the entrance and exits to the cattle barn, and creating a permanent cement block structure to safely house barn waste and manure
  • Carlton County Fair: purchasing electrical and lighting equipment for the indoor livestock show arena
  • Carver County Agriculture Society: replacing and updating the electrical in the horse arena crow’s nest
  • Cass County Agricultural Society – Pillager Fair: new fencing, t-posts, lumber and gates for horse arena, wheelbarrows, shovels, hay forks and a drag for the arena, and waterers and feeders for the chicken area
  • Chisago County Fair: painting the 4-H building, repairing posts in the dairy barn, repairing the roof of the milk house, and repairing the watering system in the hog barn
  • Crow Wing County 4-H: updating the lighting in the 4-H building to LED, and shelving for the dog project’s training equipment
  • Faribault County Fair: rewiring the hog barn
  • Freeborn County Agricultural Society: replacing the overhead door in the cattle barn
  • Itasca County Agricultural Association: repairing the cattle wash rack faucets, and insulating the announcer’s stand and upgrading the speaker system in the judging arena
  • Le Sueur County Fair: replacing a main water line for the large livestock barns
  • McLeod County Agricultural Association: updating lighting in horticulture, crops and pantry building and 4-H exhibit building to high efficiency LED lighting
  • Mower County Fair: upgrading the sound and internet in the barns
  • Murray County Agricultural Society: upgrading the lighting to LED, and new wiring in the Olson Arena
  • Nobles County 4-H: replacing the bleachers in the Olson Arena
  • Rice County Fair: building a barrier fence between audience and animal showing area and constructing a new door in the judging arena
  • Scott County 4-H: repairing broken boards and installing new pen latches on pens in the sheep and goat barn, and overhauling pens to make them appropriate for housing swine
  • Sherburne County Agricultural Society: replacing poultry and rabbit cages and purchasing tables
  • Wabasha County Agricultural Fair Association: expanding the sidewalk in the cattle barns, and expanding the wash rack area
  • Watonwan County Agricultural Association: purchasing a cooking range for 4-H Food Stand, carpet rug runners for the exhibit building and fans for livestock barns
  • Wright County 4-H: purchasing new swing gates for sheep pens

Wisconsin

  • Adams County Agricultural Society: building and installing swine waterers for the swine exhibitors and building carts to store the poultry and rabbit cages
  • Ashland County Fair: building a pavilion to host the market sale and show the animals
  • Barron County Fair Rabbit Program: purchasing new rabbit cages and setup supplies
  • Barron County Pro Rodeo Inc: building a new announcer stand/booth with lighting, sound and wi-fi
  • Buffalo County Agricultural Fair: new doors and headers in the beef barn, and replacing the wash racks
  • Calumet County Agricultural Association: fixing the roof and replacing windows in the dairy barn HG buildings
  • Crawford County Fair: adding and upgrading electrical receptacles in the animal barns
  • Dunn County Fair: pouring concrete in the sheep and llama barn and installing fans in the dairy and beef barn
  • Eau Claire County Friends of the Fair: improvements and signage in the milk house
  • Elroy Fair: adding outlets, upgrading power boxes, and increasing breaker size in the hog and sheep buildings, adding more power supply in the beef barn, installing outlets and upgrading breaker boxes in the exhibit building, and replacing all the public address wire in the older buildings and public address horns
  • Green County Agricultural Society and Mechanics Institute: completing lighting upgrade project to LED lighting in the exhibition hall building
  • Green Lake County Fair: replacing the milk house roof, purchasing free-standing goat pens, updating the cow – heifer headboards and ties, replacing water lines inside the dairy barn, and replacing the vacuum pump for milking
  • Iron County Fair Association: purchasing industrial grade LED light fixtures and electrical wiring supplies to improve lighting inside the livestock barn, small animal barn, and livestock show arena
  • Jackson County Ag Society: purchasing a new stage
  • La Crosse County Ag Society – La Crosse Interstate Fair: purchasing ceiling fans and hanging brackets for sheep and swine show ring
  • Lafayette County Fair: construction of a manure push-off area in the swine, goat and sheep barn and reconstruction of the stall areas in the dairy and beef barn
  • Pierce County Livestock Committee: construction of a new sheep wash rack, expanding the swine wash rack, and adding a holding tank
  • Polk County Fair Society Inc.: cement floor in the small animal, poultry and rabbit barn
  • Richland County Fair: electrical upgrades and additional outlets in the Connection Building and upgrading lights in the grandstand area
  • Rusk County Livestock Committee: adding clay and leveling the dirt floors in the animal barns and adding fill on the outside of the barns
  • Trempealeau County Agricultural Society, Inc.: upgrading the electrical service in the Farm Progress Arena
  • Washburn County Jr Fair Assn: repairing beam in the connecting link between the dairy and beef barn and the sheep and swine barn
  • Winnebago County Fair Association: replacing barn water lines, leveling ground with additional gravel screenings, adding electrical, and replacing pins in sheep pen gates

For more information about the Country Fair Facility Upgrade Program, visit compeer.com/giving-back.

About the Fund for Rural America
The Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America is the corporate giving program of Compeer Financial, structured to support Compeer Financial’s mission to enrich agriculture and rural America. Compeer Financial’s Board of Directors has dedicated one percent of annual net earnings to support the Fund’s focus areas of agricultural advocacy and development, agriculture education, cooperative initiatives, rural development and community enrichment; and youth engagement. The Fund is managed by a Board of Trustees, made up of team members from Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin and members of the Compeer Financial Board of Directors. More information about opportunities available through the Fund can be found at Compeer.com/giving-back.

About Compeer Financial
Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural communities. The $27 billion organization provides loans, leases, risk management and other financial services throughout 144 counties in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Based in the Upper Midwest, Compeer Financial exists to champion the hopes and dreams of rural America, while providing personalized service and expertise to clients and the agriculture industry.

Compeer Financial is the third largest cooperative of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of lending institutions supporting agriculture and rural communities with reliable, consistent credit and financial services. Learn more about Compeer Financial.

— Compeer Financial

Filed Under: Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin Tagged With: business, finance, funding and grants, rural life, youth in agriculture

This week at HLFM

May 18, 2022 by Patrick

LEWES, Del. — At the May 21st Historic Lewes Farmers Market positive energy will be flowing on a morning filled with breath connection and mindful movement. At 10 am, Jude Block, owner of Ever-Present Yoga, will help market attendees explore yoga breathing techniques to help ease response to stress. The market opens at 8 am at George H.P. Smith Park (Johnson and DuPont Avenues) with vendors bringing different lettuces, arugula, strawberries, freshly cut asparagus, baby kale, Bok Choy, Swiss chard, salad and stir fry mixes, radishes, turnips, spring onions, starter plants including heirloom tomatoes, herbs including various basils and lavender, veggies, and flowers including zinnias and marigolds. Customers will also find a great selection of eggs, milk, yogurt, butter, grass-fed pork, beef and chicken, live crabs and hand-picked crabmeat, oysters, mushrooms, honey, jams, breads, pastries, cut-flower bouquets, and more.

A number of the Market vendors take pre-orders. The HLFM website www.historiclewesfarmersmarket.org lists all vendors, their contact information, and whether or not they take pre-orders. For pre-orders, the customer may pick up at the vendor tent in the Market.

The Market’s weekly newsletter lists demos and more. To receive the newsletter, customers should email info@historiclewesfarmersmarket.org and ask to be added to the list.

The Market processes SNAP, WIC, and SFMNP, and continues to match SNAP up to $20 per market, per customer. Please go to the SNAP tent in the Market to process your SNAP/EBT.

The HLFM continues its Food Pantry Purchase Program. HLFM customers who want to help feed the local community may purchase local produce, meats, milk, and other food from growers at the Market to donate to this program every Saturday. At the end of the Market, the produce and other foods are gathered and given to various food pantries including both Epworth and Casa San Francisco. The HLFM thanks its customers for their generosity.

The circle in front of the Fred Thomas Building at the foot of Dupont will be open for handicap drop-off and pick-up. Beebe Hospital is generously allowing market customers to park in its outside parking lots. Please go to www.historiclewesfarmersmarket.org to see where parking is located and to view Vendor Maps for the Market.

The Market moves to the Lewes Elementary School parking lot, 820 Savannah Road, when there is inclement weather.

The Market thanks The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group, 2022 HLFM Market Champion, for their continued support of the Market.

More information about the Market is available at www.historiclewesfarmersmarket.org. Find them also on Facebook and Instagram.

Questions? info@historiclewesfarmersmarket.org or call 302-644-1436. To receive the HLFM newsletter, please email them at info@historiclewesfarmersmarket.org to be added to the HLFM E-news.

Ever-Present Yoga Demo at Historic Lewes Farmers Market

George H.P. Smith Park

Saturday, May 21, 2022

8 am – 12 pm

–Historic Lewes Farmers Market

Filed Under: DelMarVa, Delaware

Application window now open for 2022 Grow-NY business competition

May 18, 2022 by Brittany

2022 Grow-NY

ALBANY — Empire State Development (ESD) has announced that the application window is now open for the 2022 Grow-NY food and agriculture competition. Grow-NY, a unique initiative which connects innovators and investors in the food, beverage and agriculture sectors locally and around the globe, has already resulted in economic growth and entrepreneurial opportunity in Upstate New York.  The Grow-NY region, a 22-county area spanning Central New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Southern Tier, has already seen hundreds of new jobs and millions of dollars of follow-on investment as a result of the competition. Grow-NY attracts high-growth food and agriculture startups to compete for $3 million in total prize money each year and supports 20 finalists through a business development phase that connects them with the region’s resources. Governor Kathy Hochul included funding for three additional rounds of this impactful competition in her FY 2023 budget.

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “This fourth round of Grow-NY will further build on the success of earlier competition winners, whose entrepreneurial ideas are fueling economic growth Upstate. These innovative companies have attracted significant investment and are seeding the ground for even more innovation, both throughout the Grow-NY region and around the world.”

Winners are required to commit to operating in at least one of the 22 Grow-NY counties for at least 12 months and must agree to “pay-it-forward” provision in the form of an equity agreement. One finalist will receive a top prize of $1 million; two others will be awarded $500,000 prizes, and four more will be given $250,000 prizes. Winners will also receive tax incentives and publicity support to announce their achievements across the Grow-NY region and in their home regions. Funding for the program comes through Empire State Development from the Upstate Revitalization Initiative’s three regional entities, CNY Rising, Finger Lakes Forward, and Southern Tier Soaring, and is administered by Cornell’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement.

Ronald P. Lynch Dean of the Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Benjamin Z. Houlton said, “Cornell is proud to support the Grow-NY competition, which plays a vital role in catalyzing food and agriculture start-ups and entrepreneurship across our region. By partnering across the public and private sectors, Grow-NY is critical to scaling new technologies and innovations needed to meet our state’s goals for more sustainable food systems that provide healthy, nutritious food to all.”

The startup competition begins its fourth year with impressive momentum, having garnered applications and interest from over a thousand businesses in 32 unique states and 37 other countries over the last three years. In all, 59 finalists have been selected to date, with 21 winners sharing $9 million in startup funding as well as the invaluable mentorship and networking benefits which the program delivers to finalists.

In addition to emphasizing innovation and scalability, the Grow-NY program is focused on drawing more diverse leaders to the region by reaching communities that have historically been left out of the innovation economy.  In 2021, 51% of the 330 applicants included a founder from an underrepresented minority group, and 44% included a female founder.

“We are looking for food and ag innovators that operate at any point in the agrifood system that demonstrate a value to customers, an ability to grow quickly and sustainably, and diversity within their founding team,“ said Grow-NY program director Jenn Smith. 

Applications must be submitted by Friday, July 1. In August, up to 20 finalists will be assigned mentors and enter the business development phase. All finalists will receive bespoke entrepreneurial support and valuable regional introductions, additional training to hone their live pitches, and an expenses-paid, three-day business development trip to the region for up to two team members.

The selected  finalists will present their business plans during the Grow-NY Summit, Tuesday and Wednesday November 15 – 16, alongside a symposium of panel conversations and keynotes, a showcase of agencies, companies, research groups, and other organizations that serve startups working in food and ag, and a student stage where middle- and high school aged New Yorkers will pitch their ag- and food tech ideas.

Judges will base award decisions on the following five criteria: 

  • Viability of Commercialization and Business Model – the potential for the entrant to generate revenue and maintain a cost structure that allows for a competitive and sustainable business, demonstrate technological readiness or innovate to fulfill its value proposition;
  • Team – Demonstration of a level of cohesion, completeness, diversity, and readiness within the team of founders, employees, and advisors; inclusion or plans for inclusion of employees and advisors from communities that have historically been excluded from the innovation economy, such as women and minorities;
  • Customer Value – the degree to which the entrant is providing something for which customers are willing to pay, and addressing a substantial market;
  • Food and Agriculture Innovation – the extent to which the entrant is pushing what’s considered state-of-the-art in the food and agriculture industries, and contributing to Upstate NY’s status as a global leader in innovation in these markets;
  • Regional Job Creation – the potential for creating high-quality jobs in the Grow-NY footprint and relevance to the existing food and ag ecosystem; and

The Grow-NY region, which hosts over 40 percent of New York’s 33,438 farms, includes an abundance of vibrant, fertile lands along with such major urban centers as Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca and Binghamton. It is a 22-county region comprised of the following three areas:

  • Finger Lakes – Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Orleans, Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates
  • Central New York – Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga and Oswego
  • Southern Tier – Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Delaware, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Through three rounds, the Grow-NY competition has highlighted New York’s agricultural and food industry partners and helped to foster tremendous innovation. I’m excited that this fourth round will continue to build on that success, further showcasing the strength and diversity of our agriculture and food businesses and attracting exciting, cutting-edge companies that are creating the ag technologies and jobs of the future while supporting our local farms.”

Central New York Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Randy Wolken, President & CEO of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York, and Dr. Linda LeMura, President of Le Moyne College, said, “New York State continues to experience unprecedented growth in the agriculture and food industries. The globally renowned Grow-NY competition represents yet another exciting investment in our community that will further bolster regional job growth and further support our agricultural base throughout Central New York ensuring the region continues to rise.”

Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Co-Chair Bob Duffy, President and CEO, Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, and Denise Battles, President SUNY Geneseo, said, “The regional council is again proud to support round three of the innovative Grow-NY competition. Our agricultural and food industries are truly world- class and both their products and innovations are huge economic drivers for our state and region. Connecting the cutting-edge ideas of these entrepreneur teams with local industry partners supports the multi-pronged approach laid out in the Finger Lakes Forward Upstate Revitalization Initiative, which is working to create a thriving regional economy.”

Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Judy McKinney Cherry, Executive Director, Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED), and Broome Community College President Kevin Drumm, said, “New York’s agriculture industry is one of the most prestigious and productive in the nation.  This initiative, with its focused investment in the region, adds great value to the Southern Tier’s continued economic success in the ag sector. The Grow-NY competition enables innovative and competitive businesses to showcase their strengths and will further our efforts to bolster the regional economy ultimately helping the Southern Tier to soar.”

To learn more about the Grow-NY competition, visit: www.grow-ny.com.

To learn more about the Cornell Center for Regional Economic Advancement, visit: http://crea.cornell.edu/


About Empire State Development 

Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency (www.esd.ny.gov). The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of “I LOVE NEW YORK,” the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.

Accelerating Finger Lakes Forward 

Today’s announcement complements “Finger Lakes Forward,” the region’s comprehensive blueprint to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on investing in key industries including photonics, agriculture‎ and food production, and advanced manufacturing. Now, the region is accelerating Finger Lakes Forward with a $500 million State investment through the Upstate Revitalization Initiative. The State’s $500 million investment will incentivize private business to invest well over $2.5 billion – and the region’s plan, as submitted, projects up to 8,200 new jobs. More information is available here. ​

Accelerating CNY Rising  

Today’s announcement complements “CNY Rising,” the region’s comprehensive blueprint to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on capitalizing on global market opportunities, strengthening entrepreneurship and creating an inclusive economy. Now, the region is accelerating CNY Rising with a $500 million State investment through the Upstate Revitalization Initiative. The State’s $500 million investment will incentivize private business to invest well over $2.5 billion – and the region’s plan, as submitted, projects up to 5,900 new jobs. More information is available here.

 Accelerating Southern Tier Soaring 

Today’s announcement complements “Southern Tier Soaring,” the region’s comprehensive blueprint to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on attracting a talented workforce, growing business and driving innovation. Now, the region is accelerating Southern Tier Soaring with a $500 million State investment through the Upstate Revitalization Initiative. The State’s $500 million investment will incentivize private business to invest well over $2.5 billion – and the region’s plan, as submitted, projects up to 10,200 new jobs. More information is available here.

–Empire State Development

Filed Under: New York Tagged With: business, economy, finance, funding and grants

Ceremony to highlight commitment to water quality on U.S.-Canada border

May 18, 2022 by Brittany

CALAIS, Maine — The health of a major ecosystem along the U.S.-Canada border is receiving renewed interest this spring, as seven federal, state and international agencies are joining with Passamaquoddy Tribes and the Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik to commit to improving water quality and wildlife habitat in the state of Maine and in New Brunswick, Canada.

On May 26, 2022, representatives from the agencies and Tribes and Nation will meet in Calais, Maine, to sign a Statement of Cooperation to “affirm their mutual objective to cooperate in the restoration of indigenous, sea-run fish” in the Skutik/St. Croix River watershed along the international border.

The St. Croix River is the longest stretch of freshwater along the U.S.-Canada border east of the Great Lakes, and is currently fragmented by dams along its 62-mile (100 km) length. If the watershed is completely reconnected, it could be home to the largest sea-run alewife migration in the U.S. The watershed is a significant food source and area of cultural significance to the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township, the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, and the Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik. Its sustainability and health are also important to the water quality and local economies on both sides of the border.

A similar 2013 statement of cooperation included the Wabanaki Tribes of Maine, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) National Marine Fisheries Service, and the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs. The May 26 signing will amend that original statement of cooperation to include the Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik (New Brunswick), the Maine Department of Marine Resources, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Natural Resources Conservation Service.

The state of cooperation signing is scheduled for 1 p.m. EDT, on May 26, 2022, at the Wabanaki Cultural Center, 398 Union St., Calais, Maine. The event is open to the public. Interested media should contact thomas.kielbasa@usda.gov if they plan to attend.


“Restoring and preserving the Skutik/St. Croix River watershed is a noble endeavor, of which DFO is proud to be a part. Today is a great day for this river, as well as for those who live near it and those who use it for ceremonial, recreational, and commercial purposes. The signing of this Statement of Cooperation marks yet another opportunity to collaborate with our colleagues and friends on both sides of the border to achieve our common goal of restoring sea-run fish, the watershed, and the ecosystem.” —Serge Doucet, Regional Director General, Gulf Region, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

“The Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik and Passamaquoddy Tribes have been responsible stewards of the Skutik River since time immemorial. Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Maritimes Region is pleased to join them and our American partners in this statement of cooperation, which represents a meaningful step forward towards working nation-to-nation to protect our shared fisheries and waterways. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to protect the Skutik River and ensure its bounties can be enjoyed for generations to come.” —Doug Wentzell, Regional Director General, Maritimes Region, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is pleased to continue our support for aquatic connectivity and habitat restoration on the Skutik-St. Croix River. We are honored to participate in this growing collaboration of Indigenous partners, as well as the State of Maine and Federal agencies on both sides of the international boundary, as we work together on shared objectives for native fish and the communities that depend on them.” —Regional Director Wendi Weber, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

“The St. Croix River can support the biggest runs of sea-run species in the region and provide substantial ecological and economic benefits. I know firsthand the value of collaboration, such as this, in efforts to restore our rivers and I’m proud to partner with this diverse and dedicated group of stewards of our state’s treasured resources.” —Patrick Keliher, Commissioner, Maine Department of Marine Resources

“Our ultimate goals of conserving, maintaining, and improving our natural resources and environment are closely aligned with that of the indigenous people. They seek to protect and manage their natural resources in a sustainable manner, and as conservationists, our team at NRCS understands and respects that approach.” —Matt Walker, Maine State Conservationist, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service

“We are all stewards of the Skutik/St. Croix River watershed. The signing of this Amended Statement reaffirms our commitment to working together to restore this culturally and ecologically important watershed.” —Michael Pentony, Regional Administrator, Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service

“This cross-boundary international collaboration, involving federal, state, Peskotomuhkati Nation and Passamaquoddy Tribal representation, is an exemplary model of how bilateral partners can combine resources and expertise to advance the restoration efforts of the Skutik/St. Croix River watershed, and is in complete alignment with EPA’s mission of protecting human health and the environment.” —David Cash, Regional Administrator, EPA Region 1

–USDA FSA

Filed Under: Maine, New England Tagged With: conservation, sustainability, USDA, water issues

Seed potatoes donated to vulnerable rural families in Ukraine

May 18, 2022 by Brittany

KYIV/ROME — Working to safeguard the food security and livelihoods of vulnerable rural families in Ukraine, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has distributed seed potato kits to 17 740 households from across ten of the country’s oblasts so they can plant food in time for the next harvesting season.

Some 46 000 people stand to benefit from the campaign which receives financial support from the European Union (EU) and the Central Emergency Response (CERF).

“It’s absolutely crucial right now to help farmers. The big ones but also the small ones, and those families involved in backyard farming,” said Pierre Vauthier, FAO Ukraine Designated Responsible Officer. “Agriculture is one of Ukraine’s major sectors and is important for the country’s food security. It is also a key source of income for the 12.6 million people who live in rural areas, who make up almost a third of the country’s population.”

In total, 862 tonnes of seed potatoes have been delivered to those in need over the last weeks. Distribution was achieved in time for the spring potato sowing campaign to ensure that this nutritious food source can be harvested in September.

Each family or household – consisting on average of 2.6 people – receives a kit with 50 kilograms of seed potatoes with an expected yield of about 600 kilograms of potatoes. These may be stored for many months for later consumption, used for the following planting seasons or sold to local markets.

At each location, FAO has been working closely with local authorities and implementing partners, who assisted in the selection of beneficiaries, distribution, monitoring and engagement with communities.

“Thanks to our cooperation with FAO, we have delivered 2.5 tonnes of potatoes to the Rudkivska Amalgamated Territorial Community in Lvivska oblast. This is for 50 households who host internally displaced persons,” said Ihor Vuitsyk, Head of the Board of Lviv Agrarian Chamber, FAO’s implementing partner. “It is important that an organization like FAO really helps people, and today it especially helps those who are engaged in production because one of the FAO’s tasks is to ensure local food production”.

Some 15 tonnes of seed potatoes have been delivered to 300 households in Lvivska oblast, west of Ukraine. Out of this, 30 kits have been distributed to the families in the village of Khlopchytsi in Rudkivska Amalgamated Territorial Community. This village is now hosting over 150 internally displaced people from other regions of Ukraine.

Another oblast targeted by the seed potato distribution campaign is Dnipropetrovska in central and eastern Ukraine where 3 690 households have received the kits. Some of these were delivered to 41 villages in Verkhniodniprovska Amalgamated Territorial Community whose residents are hosting 2 685 internally displaced people.

“Some companies closed, reduced staff or fired people. We cannot provide work to the local population. And we have to think about how to feed people this winter,” said Genadii Lebid, Head of Verkhniodniprovska Amalgamated Territorial Community, who noted that because of the disruptions and uncertainty caused by the conflict people are very eager to plant their gardens and have some food for their families.

FAO’s work in Ukraine

FAO has been operating in Ukraine since 2003 and following the start of the war, the Organization has developed and updated its Rapid Response Plan (RRP) to provide agricultural assistance and ensure food security to those most affected by the conflict.

FAO’s response includes providing crop and livestock inputs along with cash to support the most affected smallholder farmers and livestock holders to meet seasonal deadlines. This support will enable households to produce vegetables, cereal crops, milk, meat and eggs to feed themselves.

“In the coming weeks, FAO will reach 3 700 households (9 600 people) with multi-purpose cash transfers and over 14 600 rural families (38 000 people) with vegetable production kits to resume food production for consumption and sale,” added Pierre Vauthier. “We are also planning to distribute poultry and support vulnerable livestock keepers by providing animal feed and vitamin-mineral supplements. With more resources, we will be able to reach more people in vulnerable rural areas of Ukraine”.

FAO is calling for $115.4 million in funding to provide support to 979 320 small farmers and medium-sized producers through December 2022 to boost food availability and access. To date, FAO has raised $11  million. The financial contributions have been provided by Australia, Belgium, the CERF Rapid Response, the EU, France, Japan, the Louis Dreyfus Foundation, Ukraine Humanitarian Fund and USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA).

Further contributions are urgently needed to reach more people to maintain the spring cropping season and support the harvest preparation.

More information on data, analyses, policy recommendations, and FAO’s actions on the ground can be found here.

–FAO

Filed Under: National Tagged With: food access, international, policy, rural life, specialty crops, vegetables

Community members invited to support favorite UC ANR programs May 19-20

May 18, 2022 by Brittany

DAVIS, Calif. — California farmers can grow crops with less water. Gardeners can control pests with safer methods. Community members can take steps to protect their homes from wildfire. Children can learn life and work skills. Families can stretch their food dollars to provide nutritious meals. Californians have benefited from University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources research and outreach in many ways. And thanks to the state’s historic boost to UC ANR funding, more UC Cooperative Extension scientists and educators are being hired to address the unique needs of communities across California.

During a UC Cooperative Extension rice course, growers and crop advisors listen to pest management advice based on research. (Photo by Evett Kilmartin)

From noon to noon on May 19-20, the public is invited to donate for UC ANR Giving Day, sponsored by Tri Counties Bank, to enhance their favorite UC ANR projects or programs.

The 24 hours of giving will expand UC ANR outreach to benefit the health and well-being of more Californians throughout the state.

In the past, donations have been used to fund UC Master Gardener demonstration gardens, purchase teaching supplies for California Naturalists, and fund scholarships for children to develop life and work skills in UC ANR’s 4-H programs.

UC Master Food Preservers give science-based advice for safely storing food.
(Courtesy Photo)

Donors are invited to give to UC Cooperative Extension in their counties, Research and Extension Centers and favorite programs. When visitors click “GIVE” on the upper right of the website http://donate.ucanr.edu/givingday, fund choices appear in drop-down menus.

Online gifts made between noon on May 19 and 11:59 a.m. on May 20 may help programs qualify for prize challenge awards. Donations can be made at http://donate.ucanr.edu/givingday.

If you prefer sending a check instead of donating online, please make checks payable to “UC Regents” and specify the fund, then mail to UC ANR Gift Processing, 2801 Second Street, Davis, CA 95618.


UC Agriculture and Natural Resources brings the power of UC to all 58 California counties. Through research and Cooperative Extension in agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, economic and youth development, our mission is to improve the lives of all Californians. Learn more at ucanr.edu and support our work at donate.ucanr.edu.

–UC Agriculture and Natural Resources

Filed Under: California Tagged With: education, research

Missouri Soybeans congratulates Cargill on new soybean processing facility announcement

May 17, 2022 by Chandler Hansen

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — To provide infrastructure to Missouri’s largest soybean producing region, Cargill has unveiled plans to build a new soybean processing facility in Pemiscot County, near Hayti and Caruthersville, to support growing domestic and global demand for oilseeds driven by food, feed and fuel markets.

“The Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) is committed to increasing market development opportunities in the state, and we are proud to work with Cargill on this project to bring value back to the soybean farmer,” said Aaron Porter, MSMC vice chair and farmer from Southeast Missouri. “This collaborative partnership simply reinforces our mission as a checkoff to create marketing solutions to maximize Missouri soybean farmer profitability. As a grower from Southeast Missouri, I am encouraged by Cargill’s investment in the Bootheel and strongly support their decision to harness our infrastructure and create an avenue for our soybeans.”

The facility will be the first of its kind for Southeast Missouri with an annual production capacity of 62 million bushels of soybeans.

“Missouri currently ranks sixth in the United States for soybean production,” said Missouri Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe. “The location of the new facility will expand the $94 billion economic impact of Missouri agriculture, our state’s top industry, accelerate economic development and enhance workforce opportunities in the Bootheel.”

“Missouri Soybeans is very pleased with the new build of a soybean crush facility located in Pemiscot County, and the direct impact it will bring to our farmers in Southeast Missouri,” said Gary Wheeler, Missouri Soybeans CEO and Executive Director. “In an effort to increase opportunities for our growers, Missouri Soybeans has been working collaboratively with several partners for more than two years to achieve this lofty goal and create a needed market for their soybeans. Born and raised in the Bootheel, I know first-hand this is a great opportunity for our soybean farmers and local community.”

Cargill plans to break ground on the project early next year with plans to be operational in 2026.

— MSMC

Filed Under: Missouri Tagged With: soybeans

Agsplosion brings agriculture to local students

May 17, 2022 by Naomi LaRose

LINCOLN, Neb. — More than 700 elementary students from western Nebraska got a hands-on education recently about Nebraska agriculture during the Agsplosion event that was held in 5 different locations in the Panhandle.

The young learners spent the day rotating through eight stations about a variety of agriculture commodities that were presented by Nebraska Extension educators and assistants. The students learned about the livestock and crops that are raised and grown in the Panhandle as well as across the state. Some of what the students learned include:

  • Swine: The basics of the swine life cycle and production, and how pigs are raised to produce safe, quality meat for consumers.
  • Corn: How the number one crop produced in Nebraska is planted and grown. They also learned about the three main types of corn produced in the state, and products from corn, such as popcorn and ethanol.
  • Wheat: How winter wheat is grown and harvested in the Panhandle. They also learned how wheat is ground up to make flour, and the difference between whole wheat and white flour. Students were able to grind their own flour using pestle and mortar sets.
  • Potatoes: How potatoes go from farm to factory. Students learned how the nutritional value depends on how potatoes are cooked, and that 85 percent of the potatoes grown in Nebraska are made into Lay’s potato chips.
  • Beans: The importance of Nebraska soybeans in central and eastern Nebraska and dry edible beans in western Nebraska. Both crops are sold within the U.S. and internationally for human consumption, and how soybeans are also an important component of animal feed rations.
  • Beef: Students learned they get more than meat from beef animals and realized how many beef byproducts they use every day such as toothpaste and toothbrush, shampoo, tires, and combs.
  • Dairy: The process of milk production from farm to refrigerator. Students also made and tasted homemade butter.
  • Ag Technology: Students explored how technology allows farmers to grow lots of crops efficiently. They worked in teams to plant by hand to experience the difference.

“AgSplosion is a great way for youth to explore Nebraska’s number one economy in a fun, hands-on setting. The Extension staff works together to create lessons that engage youth while exposing them to the vast products that originate not only in the Panhandle but across the state,” said Sarah Paisley, Nebraska Extension, 4-H Youth Development Educator. “Teachers appreciate that we connect the lessons to what they are teaching in school and how they apply directly to the world in which they live and the food they eat.”

Sponsors and other supporters provided financial support, use of facilities, farm equipment and live animals for the events. They include Nebraska Corn Board; Nebraska Wheat Board; Farm Bureau; Prairie Winds Community Center at Bridgeport; Walther Farms; Oshkosh Heifer Development; Big Red Popcorn; Box Butte Ag Society; Cheyenne County Fairgrounds; and Dawes County Ag Society.

— Brittany Fulton, Nebraska Extension, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Filed Under: Nebraska Tagged With: education, rural life, youth in agriculture

Northeast SARE seeks grant preproposals for $5M in sustainable ag funding

May 17, 2022 by Brittany

SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. — Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) is accepting preproposals to distribute $5 million in funding across its three largest grant programs.

Research and Education, Research for Novel Approaches, and Professional Development Grants begin at $30,000 and provide as much as $250,000 for projects growing the future of sustainable agriculture in the Northeast. The deadline to submit preproposals is 5 p.m. EST on August 2, 2022.

All three grant programs currently accepting preproposals are open to anyone who works with farmers. Professional Development Grants are also open to those who work with service providers that serve the agricultural community. Typical projects range from 2-3 years and all projects must be completed by November 30, 2026.

The Northeast region includes: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Northeast SARE has allocated $2.25 million for Research and Education Grant projects in 2023. Research and Education Grants range from $30,000 to $250,000 and fund projects that result in gains in farmer knowledge, awareness, skills and attitudes that are then applied to make measurable on-farm changes leading to greater sustainability.

Research and Education projects include an education program for farmers that seeks to achieve a “performance target” that describes the changes in practices, behaviors or conditions among farmers expected to result from the proposed project.

Northeast SARE has allocated $1.75 million for Research for Novel Approaches Grant projects in 2023. Research for Novel Approaches Grants range from $30,000 to $200,000 and fund “proof of concept” projects intended to confirm the benefit and/or feasibility of new practices and approaches that have high potential for adoption by farmers.

In Research for Novel Approaches Grant project LNE19-384R, Project Leader Dr. Deborah Aller, of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, seeks to enhance understanding of biochar’s impact on both field and container nursery production. Mina Vescera (above) potted up switchgrass for a biochar container trial. (Courtesy Photo)

These practices and approaches may be related to production, marketing, business management, human resource management and other social issues, or other topics related to sustainable agriculture.

Northeast SARE has allocated $1 million for Professional Development Grant projects in 2023. Professional Development Grants range from $30,000 to $150,000 and fund train-the-trainer projects that develop the knowledge, awareness, skills and attitudes among the full range of service providers who work with farmers, including agricultural professionals who teach, advise and assist farmers about sustainable agriculture practices and strategies as well as non-agricultural service providers (e.g., attorneys, lenders, etc.) that work with farmers.

In Professional Development Grant project ENE19-158, Project Leader Eric Lee-Mader, of The Xerces Society, aims to impact 10,000 acres of farmland by training service providers to recognize, quantify, and conserve essential invertebrates in soil. A Munsell chart is a tool used to categorize the color of a soil. This image appears along many others in “Farming with Soil Life: A Handbook for Supporting Soil Invertebrates and Soil Health on Farms”, which was produced as part of the grant project. (Courtesy Photo)

These service providers then use the knowledge, awareness, skills, and attitudes they gain in their work with farmers.

Preproposals are preliminary concept documents evaluated by independent review teams made up of farmers, researchers, nonprofit staff, and agricultural service providers. Reviewers evaluate proposals on a scale of 1 to 5 and assign a single score to the preproposal based on the extent to which it addressed review criteria.

Roughly one-third to one-half of preproposals are invited to submit full proposals and about one-third of full proposals are approved for funding by the Northeast SARE Administrative Council.

Both invited and not-invited applicants receive feedback from reviewers. Northeast SARE reviewer feedback is an invaluable resource for any organization looking to write grants related to sustainable agriculture.

Northeast SARE will be examining its grant programs and procedures as part of its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice Strategic Plan. To accommodate that work, these grant programs may not reopen for preproposals in 2023.

A Preproposal Grant Webinar will take place at noon on June 23, 2022. The webinar will explore the different grant programs, application process, and frequently asked questions.


Links:

Preproposal Grant Webinar: northeast.sare.org/NortheastSAREGrantWebinar

Northeast SARE’s Definition of a Farm: northeast.sare.org/farmdefinition

Northeast SARE’s Outcome Statement: northeastsare.org/outcomefunding

northeast.sare.org/grants/get-a-grant/research-and-education-grant-program/

northeast.sare.org/grants/get-a-grant/research-for-novel-approaches/

northeast.sare.org/grants/get-a-grant/professional-development-grant-program/

–Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program

Filed Under: Connecticut, DelMarVa, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New England, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont Tagged With: conservation, funding and grants, research, sustainability

New York 4-H members take part in national tractor program

May 17, 2022 by Brittany

RENSSELAER CO., N.Y. — 4-H members from Washington, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer and Saratoga Counties participated in The National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program during April break, earning a U.S. Department of Labor’s Certificate of Completion.  The NSTMOP requires successfully completing homework, written test, skills and driving tests.  The certification is required for youth 14 & 15 years old to work with tractors and machinery on farms and agribusinesses other than family operated.

During this program, teens visited agriculture businesses throughout the region to get a real-life overview on the occupational hazards of farming.  The Eckhardt family of Kinderhook Creek Farm in Stephentown, provided insight to the safety precautions implemented on their family farm with a behind the scenes tour of their operations. Tim Havens from Falls Farm & Garden provided a hands-on review of tractor and chain saw maintenance and safety.  New York Center for Agricultural Medicine & Health gave a presentation to enhance agricultural and rural health by talking about the preventative measures that should be taken on a farm.

Thanks to the support from our community partners: NYCAMH of Bassett Healthcare Network, Glens Falls Hospital, Capital Tractor, Falls, Farm and Garden Equipment, H & M Equipment Co., Salem Farm Supply, Kinderhook Creek Farm, Saratoga Sod and First Pioneer Farm Credit for providing equipment and teaching segments of the program. Without their support this program would not be possible! If you, or someone you know would like more information about our Annual 4-H Tractor Safety Program or 4-H in general, please contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension Office.

–Cornell Cooperative Extension Rensselaer County

Filed Under: New York Tagged With: 4-H, safety, youth in agriculture, tractors & machinery

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to page 3
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 1010
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

  • Trending
  • Latest

Footer

MORNING AG CLIPS

  • Sponsors
  • About Us
  • Advertise with Us
  • Privacy Statement
  • Terms of Service
  • Customer & Technical Support

CONNECT WITH US

  • Like Us on Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

TRACK YOUR TRADE

  • Markets & Economy
  • Cattle Updates
  • Dairy News
  • Policy & Politics
  • Corn Alerts

QUICK LINKS

  • Account
  • Portal Membership
  • Invite Your Friends
  • Subscribe to RSS
  • WeatherTrends
  • Just Me, Kate

© 2022 Morning Ag Clips, LLC. All Rights Reserved.