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Cal Expo joins in disaster response effort

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SACRAMENTO — Cal Expo and State Fair joined in the disaster response effort through a partnership with the American Red Cross during Northern California’s most recent flooding and Oroville Dam incident.

The Red Cross and Cal Expo have long been neighbors on Exposition Boulevard but the opportunity to enhance that relationship came in February with the Oroville Dam Spillway evacuation. With only hours to rally a large scale response, the Red Cross reached out to Cal Expo for help. Over 180,000 people were told to evacuate from their homes as the authorities detected a potential weakness in the 700-foot-tall Oroville Dam. It was estimated that if the spillway broke there would be a 30-foot wall of water surging south into communities downstream.

When the call went out to Cal Expo to serve as a shelter the resounding response was “Yes, we can help.”

“For more than 160 years the California State Fair has been the one constant setting for celebrating and showcasing the best of our State, and in times of emergency a safe haven for those in need,” says Rick Pickering, C.E.O. “During this emergency, the Red Cross and their dedicated volunteers exemplified what has long made California great, its people.”

The shelter at Cal Expo opened on February 13 and remained open until February 23. During that time the shelter tallied 261 overnight stays, 5,000 meals and snacks served, 700 volunteer hours and 800 health and mental health contacts. In addition, evacuees brought 11 RV’s into the Cal Expo RV Park. These families and individuals also came into the shelter for meals, information and to use the resources in the shelter.

Gary Strong, CEO for the Red Cross of Gold Country Region was a frequent visitor to the shelter and was very impressed with the Cal Expo staff and their willingness to do whatever it took to make sure that the evacuees had a safe place to stay while they were out of their homes. “This is one of those partnerships that we hope we won’t have to activate again but we also hope will last a long time,” Strong said.

The residents of the shelter were also extremely happy with the facility and the support from the Cal Expo staff. “The staff was so warm and inviting. They kept everything so clean and organized. No one judged us and everyone was so respectful,” shared Jennifer Moss, an evacuee from the town of Linda. “We came here afraid and worried, and the folks here helped ease our fears. I’d like to thank everyone at Cal Expo and the American Red Cross for all you’ve done for us.”

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross

About California Exposition and State Fair
Cal Expo is home to the California State Fair and plays host to hundreds of other signature events each year. The Cal Expo property is also home to Bonney Field, a premier sports and entertainment venue with seating of 11,000. Featuring 400 acres of open space along the American River Parkway and 350 beautifully landscaped acres, Cal Expo was dedicated as a place to celebrate California’s achievements, industries, agriculture, diversity of its people, traditions and trends that shape the Golden State’s future. The California State Fair is honored to celebrate its 50th anniversary at Cal Expo in 2017. Join us for the California State Fair July 14 – 30, 2017.

—California State Fair

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WPVGA presents annual industry awards

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STEVENS POINT, Wis. — In addition to its annual Hall of Fame inductions, the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) presented several other annual industry awards at a banquet held February 8, 2017 in Stevens Point.

Andy Diercks of Coloma Farms, Coloma, was named the WPVGA Volunteer of the Year. Diercks is involved in virtually every aspect of the WPVGA. A newly elected director on the Wisconsin Potato Industry Board, he also serves on the United Potato Growers of Wisconsin Board; he serves on the Promotions Committee, the Governmental Affairs Committee, the Grower Education Committee and the Process-Frozen Committee, as well as the Water Task Force. He is the past Chairman of the Wisconsin Ag Board and still serves on that board.

Rod Gumz of Gumz Muck Farms LLC, Endeavor, was named WPVGA Young Grower of the Year. Gumz farms with his brother, Richard, raising over 6,000 acres of onions, red potatoes, carrots, mint, field corn and soybeans. In 2016, Rod was elected to serve on the WPVGA Board of Directors. He also serves on the WPVGA Research and Promotions committees. He is the President of the Wisconsin Muck Farmers Association and the Wisconsin Carrot Growers Association Cooperative. He serves on the Finance Council at St. Mary Church in Portage. In the past, he has been a Trustee at St. Mary Church, a Director on the Divine Savior Healthcare Board; a Director of the Greater Portage Youth Education Foundation; and a member of the WPVGA SpudPro Committee. Rod enjoys playing and coaching basketball; traveling; and activities with his family, which includes his wife, Michelle, and children, Brandon, Jason and Alexandra.

Rod Gumz of Gumz Muck Farms LLC, Endeavor, was named WPVGA Young Grower of the Year. Gumz farms with his brother, Richard, raising over 6,000 acres of onions, red potatoes, carrots, mint, field corn and soybeans.
Rod Gumz of Gumz Muck Farms LLC, Endeavor, was named WPVGA Young Grower of the Year. Gumz farms with his brother, Richard, raising over 6,000 acres of onions, red potatoes, carrots, mint, field corn and soybeans.

The WPVGA Researcher of the Year Award went to University of Wisconsin Horticulturist Dr. Jeff Endelman. An Assistant Professor in the UW Dept. of Horticulture, Dr. Endelman has an emphasis on potato breeding and genetics. He brings a unique set of skills and experiences to his position, including two sets of advanced degrees. First, he earned degrees in physics and bioengineering. Then, after participating in a Community Supported Agriculture program, he fell in love with farming and completed two year-long apprenticeships on small farms in California. This inspired him to go back to earn a Master’s Degree in Plant Science from Utah State University and a Ph.D. in Crop Science from Washington State University.

The WPVGA Researcher of the Year Award went to University of Wisconsin Horticulturist Dr. Jeff Endelman.
The WPVGA Researcher of the Year Award went to University of Wisconsin Horticulturist Dr. Jeff Endelman.

At the University of Wisconsin, a major focus of Jeff’s research and extension program is to produce improved potato varieties. In recent years, Jeff’s research has helped Wisconsin release several outstanding varieties including Red Endeavor, Oneida Gold and Hodag. Jeff has also been instrumental in making improvements to the Rhinelander Agricultural Research Station as well as the SpudPro commercialization program.

The WPVGA Associate Division presented the Associate Division Business Person of the Year Award to Wayne Solinsky of Jay-Mar Inc., Plover. Solinsky has dedicated a great deal of time and effort into integrating the Associate Division with the Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association. The money raised from events like the golf outing, the Grower Education Conference & Industry Show and other events all goes back into the potato and vegetable industry in grants, scholarships and recently the Water Task Force Research and Education Fund. Wayne has done an outstanding job leading the WPVGA Associate Division.

The WPVGA Associate Division presented the Associate Division Business Person of the Year Award to Wayne Solinsky of Jay-Mar Inc., Plover.
The WPVGA Associate Division presented the Associate Division Business Person of the Year Award to Wayne Solinsky of Jay-Mar Inc., Plover.

In addition to serving as Associate Division President, Wayne serves as the liaison to the WPVGA Board of Directors, serves on the Promotions Committee, the Vegetable Committee, the Water Task Force as well as the Spud Bowl Committee. His monthly column, “Eyes on Associates,” in the Badger Common’Tater magazine is entertaining and informative. Wayne also serves on the WPVGA Grower Education Committee and was instrumental in initiating the new Associate Division vendor presentation session.

He is married to his sweetheart, Judy, and between the two of them they have four adult children: Megan Solinsky, Chris Solinsky, Glenn Woller and Katie Woller. Wayne also serves on the Portage County Ag Tour Committee and is an excellent advocate for Wisconsin’s potato and vegetable industry.

The Agri-Communicator Award for excellence in communication and dedicated service in presenting a positive message about the agricultural industry was presented to Louis Wysocki. To list all of this WPVGA Hall of Famer’s accomplishments would take several hours. Suffice it to say, that this year’s Agri-Communicator Award winner is passionate about the potato industry, and that passion shows in everything he does. He is fearless and will never hesitate to stand up for agriculture, even when he is completely outnumbered and knows that he will face harsh criticism from many who know far less than he does. Louis dedicated countless hours in 2016 working on issues related to high-capacity wells legislation and compiling reams of information to support the agriculture cause. He is as hard working as the day is long, and put forth tremendous effort to communicate agriculture’s position on water issues to legislators, the public and fellow industry members.

The Agri-Communicator Award for excellence in communication and dedicated service in presenting a positive message about the agricultural industry was presented to Louis Wysocki.
The Agri-Communicator Award for excellence in communication and dedicated service in presenting a positive message about the agricultural industry was presented to Louis Wysocki.

Though unable to attend the Banquet, 2016 WPVGA Board President Mark Finnessy of Okray Family Farms, Plover, later presented the President’s Award to his lovely wife, Shannon Finnessy, for all her love and support. The plaque Mark presented to Shannon reads, in part, “I am extremely grateful and thankful for 20 years of your loving kindness, friendship and support. You are the best choice I ever made in my life.”

Though unable to attend the Banquet, 2016 WPVGA Board President Mark Finnessy of Okray Family Farms, Plover, later presented the President’s Award to his lovely wife, Shannon Finnessy, for all her love and support.
Though unable to attend the Banquet, 2016 WPVGA Board President Mark Finnessy of Okray Family Farms, Plover, later presented the President’s Award to his lovely wife, Shannon Finnessy, for all her love and support.

A special Industry Appreciation Award was presented post-Banquet to Ed Burns of James Burns & Sons Farms Inc., Almond. Ed did not want to be recognized because he is extremely humble, but it’s important to let the industry know how hard he works on behalf of agriculture. He was particularly active in the WPVGA Water Task Force this past year, and was completely transparent in his application for a high-capacity well near the Buena Vista creek. He worked closely with GZA GeoEnvironmental and the Wisconsin DNR, sharing a great deal of information about his land and his well application, which was ultimately approved. The industry owes a debt of gratitude to this year’s Industry Appreciation Award winner, Ed Burns.

— Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association

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Carson promoted

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PIPESTONE, Minn. — Nedap, a global leader in livestock management systems, announces the promotion of Brad Carson and the hiring of Chuck Woods and Tim Shanks to its U.S. swine technology team. Carson has been promoted to vice president of Nedap Livestock Management U.S. Woods joins the team as a sales manager for the southern Midwest, working with swine producers to design and implement group gestation sow housing and other automated swine management tools, and Shanks will serve as a technical and service project manager, assisting dealers with technology installation and service, as well as working with producers to plan building and equipment needs.

These new positions will benefit U.S. producers who have implemented or want to implement automated individual feeding systems on operations of all sizes.

“In the United States, more than 100,000 sows are using our electronic sow feeders, and that number continues to grow on a monthly basis,” says Bertino Verstege, managing director, Nedap Livestock Management. “At Nedap, we put the customer first. We are expanding our team of experts to ensure we provide the industry-leading service our current and future customers expect.”

Carson joined the Nedap U.S. team in 2015 and has had an intracule role in increased Nedap sales and expertise, a management resource for U.S. producers and developing the U.S. team.

Chuck Woods joins the U.S. Nedap swine management team as a sales representative for the southern Midwest. In this role, Woods will help swine producers design and implement group gestation sow housing for new and renovated systems.
Chuck Woods joins the U.S. Nedap swine management team as a sales representative for the southern Midwest. In this role, Woods will help swine producers design and implement group gestation sow housing for new and renovated systems.

With an extensive background in U.S. swine production, Woods comes to Nedap from Fast Genetics, where he served as a sales and service representative. Before that, he spent 12 years at VMC Management in Williamsburg, Iowa, where he specialized in sow farm management. Woods graduated from Kirkwood Community College with a degree in swine production.

“Chuck brings a wealth of production experience to our team, which makes him an excellent resource for producers considering the transition to group sow housing with electronic sow feeders,” Carson says. “We are excited to have him on board to address the needs of producers in the southern portion of the Midwest.”

Shanks brings to Nedap more than a decade of technical experience working with ag equipment dealers.  He has served as a precision farming specialist and integrated solutions manager for John Deere, Ag Leader and Case IH dealerships. He also has more than 20 years of experience as a certified IT technician.

Having grown up on a farm in northeast Illinois, Shanks graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in precision agriculture and earned a Master’s Degree in professional agriculture. He farms with his wife’s family on their grain farm in Roland, Iowa.

“Tim’s superior computer skills and technology experience will make the Nedap team even stronger,” Carson says. “With his ability to troubleshoot technical challenges on the ground, it will allow us to continue to respond with the speed and dependability our customers need and expect.”

Tim Shanks joins the U.S. Nedap team as a technical and service project manager. In this role, Shanks will support dealers and producers with technical training and service.
Tim Shanks joins the U.S. Nedap team as a technical and service project manager. In this role, Shanks will support dealers and producers with technical training and service.

Nedap offers a full-line of automated feeding and management systems, including electronic sow feeding, to allow individual management in large groups.

For more information about tools for feeding sows individually in group housing, contact Brad Carson at (712) 435-7546 or brad.carson@Nedap.com, or go to www.nedap.com/sowmanagement.

Nedap is a global leader in livestock equipment and management systems. With a goal of creating technology that matters, Nedap has developed, manufactured and sold intelligent technological solutions for swine management for more than 35 years. Nedap is focused on both herd productivity and performance worldwide, offering smart, sustainable solutions in all parts of the production cycle for a profitable, individual approach to managing swine in large groups.

— Nedap

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CSA fairs in the Hudson Valley

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HUDSON, N.Y. — Spring is in the air! On the heels of this year’s CSA Sign-Up Day, a multi-faceted promotional campaign that served to launch the Hudson Valley CSA Coalition, the Hudson River Exchange has announced a series of CSA fairs throughout the region, beginning on Saturday, March 18, in Hudson, NY.

CSA is an acronym for Community Supported Agriculture, a sales model through which members buy directly from a farm or group of farms, without a distributor or middleman. CSA farmers in the Hudson Valley are ideally situated and dedicated to improving public health by providing more local residents with access to high-quality food produced in their own communities. Although their financial viability relies on it, owners of small- to midsize farms practicing a CSA business model are often pressed for time, expertise or resources to effectively market their shares and expand their customer base. In response, Glynwood has helped to galvanize and launch the Hudson Valley CSA Coalition: a network of 70 farms across 11 counties in the region, and growing.

These CSA fairs will provide an opportunity for residents to learn about the vital role independent farms play in their community, and discover various CSA shares available to them. At least 10 local farms will participate at each event, which will include activities for children and a farm market of fresh products. With a diversity of shares represented, including produce, meat, dairy, flowers, herbs and more, there are options to suit any household, pocketbook and appetite. Every visitor who becomes a CSA member at a fair will be entered to win a series of prizes, including gift certificates to local restaurants.

The schedule of CSA fairs in the Hudson Valley is as follows:

● March 18, 2pm-5pm – Hudson Area Library, Hudson, NY
● April 1, 11am-2pm – Old Dutch Church, Kingston, NY
● April 15, 11am-2pm – Taak House, Troy, NY

More fairs will be added as they are confirmed. Please visit Hudson River Exchange’s website for updates. Fairs are free and open to the public. Visitors should remember to be prepared with checks or cash to purchase shares.

“As makers and entrepreneurs, farmers provide sustenance and inspiration. They are vital contributors to our community,” said Stella Yoon, Co-Founder of Hudson River Exchange. “CSA shifts the way people consume food through a unique buy-in model. We find it especially important to host these fairs as a venue for people to further explore the CSA concept and shop around for different options and ways they can get involved.”

Partners:

The Hudson Valley CSA Coalition is a network of more than 70 farms across the region. Through a series of strategic initiatives, including the new CSA Coalition searchable directory, the goals are to collectively expand and diversify CSA memberships, support profitability of farms in this region and convert more residents into shareholders.

Hudson River Exchange continues the Hudson River’s long history of bringing together people, ideas and commerce by supporting and developing the handmade economy and community surrounding it through experiential retail, markets, workshops and networking events.

The mission of Glynwood is to ensure the Hudson Valley is a region defined by food, where farming thrives. Through its nonprofit programs and educational events, Glynwood works to advance regenerative agriculture that benefits the natural environment, energizes local economies, enhances human health and strengthens rural communities.

–Hudson Valley CSA Coalition

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Spring Growth Conference

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UNITY, Maine — The annual Spring Growth Conference presented by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) and held at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity is a daylong event that digs deeply into topics that impact farmers, whether a specific crop, technique or management practice. The 2017 conference, to be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 4 (snow date March 5), will focus on life among the roots: soil microbiology.

MOFGA’s Spring Growth Conference: Soil Microbiology
March 4, 2016
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(Snow date March 5)
MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center, Unity

Keynote speaker Will Brinton of Woods End Laboratories in Mount Vernon, Maine, will present “Healthy Soil: A Biological Plant Mediator and Microbial Battleground.”

Brinton started his soil testing lab because he believed organic farming required a different soil test. Conventional farming, based on mineral nutrition theory, is served by testing inorganic factors. Organic farmers have always seen soil as a vibrant, living (biological) system and have always professed to feed the soil so that the soil could feed the plant. In this view, a healthy soil may be largely self-sustaining, supplying plants with what they need for nutrition and pest defense – without significant intervention. Yet few soil testing services deeply address this biological system and the ability of soils to feed plants.

Meanwhile, over time many elements of mineral theory have moved into organic practice, such as the popular focus on soil mineral balancing.

The increased popularity of “soil health,” however, has created new interest in scientific means of depicting soil biology and nutrient capacity. If successful, these developments may influence organic approaches. The sweeping innovation of no-till practices, an outgrowth of intensive chemical farming, is also pressuring organic practitioners to reexamine soil management methods to incorporate the underlying biological basis of fertility.

Brinton will explore the need for a rigorous soil biological perspective in addressing soil fertility, and he’ll discuss different approaches to building biological soil health. Should we add new microbes to our soils via commercial inoculants, for example, or should we try to support existing microbial communities in situ? Like any other farm animals, microbes need to eat and will compete with other organisms to acquire and alter a niche. Farmers can use manure, compost and green manure crops to feed indigenous organisms and to help create a biological balance that can minimize populations of crop disease organisms and confer long-term stability to soils.

Brinton will discuss his Solvita soil test as a way to introduce soil biology to mainstream soil testing labs. He will address how a more expansive understanding of the interrelated biological, chemical and physical factors that determine plant health and nutrition could impact organic, sustainable, regenerative soil management practices.

Brinton will also discuss the role of soils and good farming practices in relation to climate change and mediating atmospheric CO2 levels. After the keynote a panel of organic farmers will discuss how they improve and feed soil microbes in their farm systems.

Registration (includes lunch): $75 individual and $100 couples. FMI and to register, please visit http://mofga.org/Events/SpringGrowthConference.

Youth Program and Child Care Available

MOFGA and Northwood Natural Learning are also excited to announce a new youth program in conjunction with the annual Spring Growth Conference! While adults are learning inside, kids will spend the day outside. By playing, exploring and learning with skilled nature mentors, they will build on the naturalist knowledge, survival skills and deep nature connection practices that can support them to be confident connected nature enthusiasts for life. To register your children, please call the MOFGA office at 568-4142. Cost for the program is on a sliding scale of $20 – $40 per child, but please do not let cost be a barrier. No one will be turned away because of cost. Registration will close when the class is full.

Childcare is also available for children under the age of 4 separate from the Northwood program. Registration is available by calling the MOFGA office.

—The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association

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Trump must consider farm communities

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WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump addressed a joint session of Congress, offering a blueprint of his vision for the future of the country. NFU President Roger Johnson issued the following statement in response:

“President Trump’s agenda must begin to consider and prioritize the economic well-being of rural and farming communities. In tonight’s speech, the President failed to mention the words ‘rural,’ ‘farm,’ or ‘agriculture,’ yet touched on a myriad of policy issues that could have major impacts on family farmers, ranchers and rural communities. 

“For instance, the President plans to revitalize the American economy and support the creation of jobs by renewing our nation’s trade agenda. While his focus on improving trade agreements is appreciated, our members are increasingly concerned about his earlier harsh rhetoric and the strain it has placed on our trading partners.

“Trump’s plan to switch away from the ‘current system of lower-skilled immigration’ neglects the unique and important work that immigrant laborers provide for our nation’s food system and rural economies.

“And Trump’s proposal to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act must ensure affordable access to health insurance for rural Americans, especially for family farmers who can not be part of large plans. 

“If the President intends to be a champion for all Americans, he must consider the real and lasting impacts his policy agenda will have on rural America and family farmers and ranchers.”

—National Farmers Union

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Master Gardeners host March 11 workshop

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MILFORD, Pa. — As we enter March, many of us are counting the days until the official arrival of spring and cherishing the daylight that grows by a few minutes each day. Home gardeners are also day-dreaming of when they can finally begin planting. Fortunately, you can start planning your best garden now with the support and guidance of experienced local gardeners who will be presenting on topics to both help beautify your space and grow more food this upcoming season.

The Master Gardeners of the Pike County Extension will be hosting the second installment of their monthly educational “Ready? Set… Garden!” workshop series to support you in your gardening endeavors. Whether you are interested in honing your skills to grow an abundant vegetable garden or designing spectacular flower borders, the upcoming workshops will assist you in meeting your goals!

The workshop series has two distinct tracks – Edibles & Beautiful Blooms – and the schedule is designed so that participants can attend a single workshop of interest or the entire series. The next two workshops of the series will be hosted at the Pike County Training Center on March 11.

The morning session, entitled “Starting Seeds Indoors and Out,” will run from 9 to 11 a.m. and will be presented by guest speaker Bonnie Morgan of the Cornell Extension Master Gardeners. Bonnie has many years of experience as a Master Gardener, is a graduate of a certificate program from the New York Botanical Garden, and is owner of the Stony Ridge Community Supported Agriculture program in Shohola. Bonnie will cover all you need to know to nurture seeds for transplanting to your garden.

The afternoon session, entitled “What to Plant Where,” will run from noon to 2 p.m. and is hosted by our own Master Gardeners, Sheila Salmon and Beth Grosso who are both very knowledgeable about native plants and shade perennials. They will discuss selecting the best plants for shady locations, what plants thrive in our local environment and techniques to keep the varmints out. Participants interested in attending both are invited to bring a bagged lunch and chat with the local Master Gardeners during the break between sessions.

Future monthly workshops in the Edible Series will focus on irrigation, companion planting, and varmint control. Future monthly workshops in the Beautiful Blooms Series will include how to attract more nature to your garden and achieving amazing color with annuals. Both series will also include a workshop to learn all about good and bad bugs in the garden.

To register for the event, receive our full color brochure or request more information, please contact the Pike County Extension office at 570-296–3400 or PikeExt@psu.edu. You can also learn more about these events and many others at http://extension.psu.edu/pike/events. Participants are invited to attend a single workshop for $10 or can sign up for five or more at a discounted fee. All workshops will be held at The Pike County Training Center located at 135 Pike County Blvd, Lords Valley, PA 18428. Pre-registration is required, as space is limited.

— Penn State Extension – Pike County

VVA names Grower of the Year

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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — The Virginia Vineyards Association has announced that Ruth Saunders of Silver Creek Orchards in Nelson County is the organization’s 2017 Grower of the Year. The award was presented to Saunders by Megan Seibel, Assistant Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, at the VVA’s annual winter technical meeting Feb 24.

During the meeting, Nate Walsh of Walsh Family Wine assumed office as the new president of the Virginia Vineyards Association. He succeeds Tom Kelly, who led the VVA for the past four years.

Saunders and her husband, John have deep roots in Virginia’s agriculture industry. Their families have operated several hundred acres of farmland in Nelson County for generations. They raise cattle and are involved in the growing of apples and a variety of other crops, including wine grapes.

Having planted their first grapes in 1999, the Saunders are among the largest independent growers in Virginia with more than 75 acres of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Viognier, Petit Verdot, Petit Manseng, Cabernet Franc, Traminette and Chambourcin. Their grapes produce award-winning wines for many wineries throughout the state.

Saunders has been involved with the VVA since she became a part of the industry. She served on the original Research and Education Committee, reviewing research grant proposals prior to their submission to the Virginia Wine Board for funding. She was also the VVA grower representative on the Wine Board for eight years and served as Director of the Virginia State Horticulture Society.

Since 2005, the Virginia Vineyards Association has honored one of its members annually with the Grower of the Year Award. The criteria are: the nominee must be an active member of the VVA with at least seven years of experience managing or operating a commercial vineyard of at least five acres; the nominee must be an active participant in the Virginia viticulture community with a track record of service to our industry; and the nominee must have the respect of his or her peers.

Walsh was one of five new board members elected by the VVA membership this winter: Ben Margulies is now association secretary, Jessi Gatewood is serving as treasurer and Carrington King and Skip Causey are serving as at-large board members.

Walsh has worked for wineries and vineyards in Central Virginia, Northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley since 2004. Currently, he is the winegrower for Walsh Family Wine in Waterford and W2 Winegrowing. He has served as a board member of the Virginia Wineries Association and the Loudoun Wineries Association.

Margulies, cellar master at Horton Vineyards in Gordonsville, studied enology at the University of California, Davis, and has worked at several vineyards in Virginia since 2009. He previously served as chair of the VVA’s Education Committee. He succeeds Aimee Henkle of The Vineyards & Winery at Lost Creek.

Gatewood, of Charlottesville, began her vineyard training under Gabriele Rausse, a pioneer of the Virginia wine industry. After working as winemaker for Barren Ridge Vineyards, she now works in the industry as a consultant. She succeeds Kay Thompson of Amherst Vineyards.

King graduated from the University of Maryland in 2002 with a degree in Horticulture Production. While there, he worked with Dr. Joseph Fiola in the Hagerstown Research Vineyard. He manages all aspects of vineyard management and installation at King Family Vineyards in Crozet, and has grown the operation from eight acres to just under 50 acres of grapes.

Causey was among the first graduates of the vineyard and enology program at Piedmont Virginia Community College more than 10 years ago. He bought his first property in 2005, began planting the following year, and opened Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery for business in Stafford in 2007.

With the seating of the VVA’s new board members, Kelly, owner of Kelly Vineyard Services based in Front Royal, will continue to support the board as immediate past president, and Jim Benefiel, of Leesburg, owner of Benevino Vineyards, will continue as vice president.

The Virginia Vineyards Association originated in 1979 as a joint effort for information exchange and cooperation among viticulturists, wineries and Virginia Tech. For more information, go to http://www.virginiavineyardsassociation.com/.

— Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Strategy to conserve monarch butterfly

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AMES, Iowa — The Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium today released a statewide strategy to support monarch butterfly recovery in Iowa and North America, available at www.iowamonarchs.info.

The strategy — developed by the consortium — guides the implementation and documentation of a voluntary, statewide effort based on the best available science. The consortium is a diverse group of more than 30 collaborators, including agricultural and conservation organizations, agribusiness and utility companies, county associations, universities and state and federal agencies.

The science-based strategy fosters habitat improvements in rural landscapes that:

  • coincide with agricultural production;
  • are sufficient in scale to support improved monarch breeding success; and
  • complement other conservation programs.

The Iowa Monarch Conservation Strategy lays the foundation for the adoption of conservation practices. Immediate conservation measures include using resources in farm bill programs to establish monarch breeding habitat; volunteering to establish monarch habitat on farms in consortium-sponsored demonstration projects; using monarch-friendly weed management in ditches, roadsides and other rights-of-way; and establishing monarch way stations with native nectar plants and milkweeds in home and community gardens.

“Through creation of the Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium and the development of this strategy, Iowa is a leader in working collaboratively to expand monarch habitat and increase the monarch population,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey. “The state-led strategy provides Iowans with additional resources to increase monarch conservation efforts.”

A recent report from Mexico found the monarch butterfly population at overwintering sites dropped 27 percent this year. Over the past two decades, the monarch population has declined by approximately 80 percent.

Roughly 40 percent of all monarch butterflies that overwinter in Mexico are estimated to come from Iowa and neighboring Midwestern states. Expanding monarch habitat in Iowa will play a major role in the recovery of the species.

“We didn’t get to this point overnight, and we aren’t going to improve the population overnight. But we have a really strong group across many different areas of expertise working together to improve the outlook for the monarch in Iowa and beyond,” said Chuck Gipp, director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Monarch butterflies face many challenges including the loss of milkweed and nectar plant habitat in its spring and summer breeding ranges. Female monarchs only lay their eggs on milkweed plants, and the hatched caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reviewing monarch butterflies under the Endangered Species Act. The service has until June 2019 to determine whether or not to list the species, a decision that will rest in part on progress made by farmers, agricultural stakeholders, other private landowners and conservationists in implementing effective voluntary conservation efforts.

“This strategy is critical to rally Iowa agriculture, landowners and citizens to continue to make progress in restoring monarch habitat,” said Wendy Wintersteen, endowed dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. “Our research, extension and outreach programs, in coordination with regional and national efforts, ensures these conservation measures are based on the best available scientific knowledge.”

The Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium formed in 2015 in response to monarch population declines. More information about consortium members, partners and the strategy is available at www.iowamonarchs.info.

— Iowa State University

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WPVGA Hall of Fame

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STEVENS POINT, Wis. — The Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Hall of Fame honors lifetime achievement in the development of the state’s potato industry. It is the intention of the WPVGA to continue to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the potato industry in Wisconsin by making annual Hall of Fame inductions.

The following includes brief biographical sketches of this year’s WPVGA Hall of Fame inductees. Awards were presented at the WPVGA’s annual awards banquet held February 8, 2017 in Stevens Point.

Richard Pavelski

Richard “Dick” Pavelski is a 4th-generation farmer whose roots date back to 1873 when his great-grandfather, August Pavelski, emigrated from Poland. The farm he worked on when he was younger had some dairy cows as well as potatoes and vegetables. Today, Dick serves as the CEO/Owner of Heartland Farms, Inc., one of the largest growers of chipping potatoes in the nation with over 18,000 acres of potatoes and vegetables.

Dick was born August 21, 1949, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, the son of Albert and Irene Pavelski. He grew up in Amherst Junction and graduated from Pacelli High School in Stevens Point in 1967.

In 1979 Dick recognized there was a need for a dedicated full-service independent fertilizer and chemical supplier/applicator in Central Wisconsin who could meet the current and future needs of the agricultural industry, so he decided to build Pavelski Enterprises. Many of the technologies that are being used today were developed in that business. Dick worked with the Stennis Space Center and explored utilizing satellite imagery for precision applications. He helped pioneer many of the soil sampling techniques and variable rate application equipment that built a foundation for what you see today. Pavelski Enterprises’ sales grew to over $21 million annually. In 1990, Pavelski Enterprises was sold to Growmark and Richard went back and joined his brother John on the Family Farm to become more involved in the growing of crops once again.

After the sale, Dick partnered up with David Knights and took the original 550-acre farming operation, Pavelski Farms, to the next level … what is today Heartland Farms. Through hard work, dedication and extreme risk, the original 550-acre farm has grown to over 18,000 acres with over $50 million in sales. Dick’s continued commitment to agricultural sustainability and innovation is second to none.

During the growth of Heartland Farms, Dick consulted on production and storage projects in Scotland, the United Kingdom, Poland and Russia. He also partnered with two other growers to build a 7,000-acre potato farm in Mexico from 1997 to 2003. Today, Heartland Farms is one of the largest Frito Lay growers in the nation.

Heartland Farms was named the winner of the 2012 National Potato Council Environmental Stewardship Award. “We’re very grateful for this honor,” Pavelski said. “We have a long tradition of farming in our family and our farm has a strong commitment to sustainability. Our motto is ‘farming for the future,’ and we are committed to environmental stewardship because we want our farm to be around for future generations so we can continue to provide food for America and the world.”

According to Pavelski, the quality of the potatoes goes hand-in-hand with the quality of the environment and the people working at the farm. The farm uses integrated pest management, or IPM, monitoring its fields for the presence of pests and establishing thresholds for treatment. Then it dials in on problem areas and avoids unnecessary spraying elsewhere. Crop rotation and resistance management are also keys to environmental stewardship. Habitat restoration for deer and wild turkey is part of the farm’s plan, while lupine is being planted in field corners for the endangered Karner Blue butterfly. Bald eagles, waterfowl and Sandhill cranes are frequent visitors to the farm.

“Sustainability is basically a three-legged stool,” Pavelski said. “We need to conserve and protect the resources we use to grow the crop; we need to make sure that we are a valuable part of the community so we get community support and ensure that our employees are taken care of from a personnel standpoint; and we also need to make some money. Financial stability is a key part of sustainability.”

A past President of the WPVGA, Pavelski has served the potato and vegetable industry on state and national levels in many capacities. He has served on the United States Potato Board and the National Potato Council and was also a director on the National Fertilizer Solutions Association. He is a past President of the Wisconsin Fertilizer and Chemical Association as well as the Wisconsin Agri-Business Council. Locally, he is a past President of the Village of Amherst Junction, and was Chairman of the Amherst Fire Commission. He was a director on the Portage County Business Council and a member of the Portage County EMS Oversight Board. He was a Trustee of the Stevens Point Catholic Schools Foundation as well as the Wisconsin Agri-Business Foundation.

Dick is a pillar of the community donating time and financial backing for many projects. Invested and involved in 36 closely held companies, Dick has recently been referred to as a “one man economic development committee.” Over the last 25 years these companies have created over 2,000 new jobs, nearly all in the Central Wisconsin area. Dick has a philosophy of investing in and mentoring dedicated and talented people with new ideas to build companies and create jobs, as opposed to welfare or unemployment.

In recent years, Dick served on the Steering Committee for the annual Potato Expo and served as a moderator of the Chip Breakout sessions. He also served as a panelist on a Chip Breakout session on “How the Chip Industry Works Together to Achieve Success.” He continues to serve on the WPVGA Chip Committee.

Dick married his wife, Barb, in 1973. They have three children, Michelle, Andria and Jeremie, and four grandchildren, Samantha, Alexander, Elliot and Eleanor, with another on the way. He resides in Arkdale, Wisconsin and Naples, Florida. His hobbies include golf, boating and ocean cruising.

Donald Hamerski

Donald Hamerski
Donald Hamerski

Donald George Hamerski of Plover, Wisconsin, was born in Polonia on January 6, 1939. The son of the late Joseph Dennis Hamerski and Johanna Francis (Kaminski) Hamerski, he attended school in Stevens Point and was a 1957 graduate of P.J. Jacobs High School.

Donald served in the United States Army National Guard and was called up for active duty in 1958 and 1961. He was released from active duty and returned to Wisconsin to serve out his remaining service obligation.

Don Hamerski’s grandfather, Paul, came to Plover in 1889 and starting farming. According to Don, his grandfather raised “a little bit of everything, cows, potatoes, corn, you name it.” Don’s father, Joe, took over the farm in 1940 and Don formed a partnership with his father in 1961. Don took over the farm in 1964, and continued to farm with his son, Jon, and his nephew, Dale O’Brien. Today, the farm raises over 2,300 acres of potatoes, sweet corn, snap beans, sweet peas and field corn.

Although he attended a one-room school just down the road from the farm as a youngster, Don was not an old-fashioned farmer. He readily embraced change, and was constantly looking to improve his farming operation with the latest, state-of-the-art technology and equipment.

Donnie married his beautiful bride, Mary Piorkowski, on November 30, 1968, at St. Bronislava Catholic Church in Plover.

As the proud owner of Hamerski Farms, Inc., Don was a long-time member of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association. He was extremely honored to receive the Century Farm Award from The Rural Life Committee of the Diocese of La Crosse in September, 2013, for being in business for 100 years. He also received the Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Award from the Portage County Business Council in 1987.

Donald was a member of St. Bronislava Parish, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and committee member to build the new church.

He served as the Portage County Drainage Commissioner for 27 years, served on the Portage County Planning and Zoning Committee, was a board member for Mount Morris Insurance Company, was a member of the Elks Lodge and a previous Lions Club member.

Don passed away on August 9, 2016, surrounded by family. He was buried with full military honors. He is survived by his wife, Mary (Piorkowski) Hamerski, his children, Jon (Dawn) Hamerski, and Lori (Daniel) Hoerter, and his grandchildren, Trent and Taylor Hamerski, and Ashley, Katie, Gabriel and Elijah Hoerter. He’s also survived by his sister, Gerry (Larry) Stuczynski.

Donnie was a very loving family man and beloved friend. He was known to many as a very generous contributor to countless charities in Wisconsin and was regular donor to the annual Spud Bowl at UW-Stevens Point. He enjoyed bowling, was a die-hard Green Bay Packer fan and a great storyteller. He also enjoyed NASCAR and farm equipment.

Don never missed an opportunity to put a smile on someone’s face. His most treasured accomplishment was the farm. It not only allowed him to work with and provide for his family, but truly gave him peace and joy.

— Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association

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