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HomeMy WebLinkAbout011626 - WSU Agriculture Newsletter - January 2026ALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them. Events, Farmer Resources, Job Opportunities and more View this email in your browser <https://mailchi.mp/wsu/wsu-agriculture-newsletter-17599630?e=bae7ffec58> January 16, 2026 <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/e9dec2c6-a793-8f98-ec76-7d9e577f4300.png> Agriculture Newsletter The latest workshops, resources, news, job and networking opportunities for farmers and the agriculture community in Clallam, Jefferson and Kitsap Counties. <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/d7708057-12c2-4819-8000-0de32f8d2f4d.png> Regional Small Farms Program Website <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=c4827a0f6e&e=bae7ffec58> In This Edition: * In the News * WSU Workshops & Events * Community Events & Classes * Resources (funding, farmer support, food safety) * Land, Farm & Equipment Listings * Job & Internship Opportunities 2025 Regional Small Farms Program: Year in Review <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/dc91bc6a-05ff-c812-6f01-66bd3e488161.jpg> Photo description: farmers and resource providers gather for a land succession event hosted by American Farmland Trust and local partners. In 2025, the WSU Regional Small Farms Program supported farmers across Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap counties with practical education, hands-on assistance, and community partnerships that strengthened farm viability and local food systems. Through workshops, technical assistance, and collaborative programs, we helped farmers build confidence, solve real-world challenges, and make informed decisions for their operations. “These classes helped me feel less overwhelmed and more confident about the choices I’m making on my farm. It saved me time and gave me direction when I really needed it.” — Regional Small Farms Program participant Through these programs, farmers reported feeling more confident in both production and business decision-making. Timely, practical guidance helped reduce uncertainty and saved valuable time, especially when navigating complex or unfamiliar challenges. Just as importantly, participants strengthened peer connections and gained access to regional expertise, reinforcing a sense of community and shared learning across the local farming network. Program Highlights * Expanded Living on the Land workshops for small acreage land stewards * One-on-one technical support on soil health, pests, production, and business planning * Strengthened SNAP and SNAP Market Match access at local markets * $79,210 in local food contracts through Farm to Community partnerships * Support for land succession conversations and regional farm tours We’re proud of the progress made in 2025 and grateful to the farmers, partners, and communities working together to build a resilient regional food system. THANK YOU to you all for a successful year of stellar Extension programming, which includes farmers, WSU faculty and staff, community organizations, BY THE NUMBERS * 499 farmers engaged across the region * 32 educational events totaling 58.5 hours of instruction * 12,600+ views of recorded classes * 69 technical assistance requests addressed * 77% of participants would recommend our classes to others Read the Full Impact Report on Our Website <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=3ce57c8ee0&e=bae7ffec58> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/7487f946-e879-d27e-faa5-6b13ab206064.png> IN THE NEWS New! WSU makes nearly $4B economic impact on Washington <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=8389e5c54b&e=bae7ffec58> Washington State University generated nearly $4 billion in economic impact throughout the state of Washington in 2024. Read more <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=25e22a243d&e=bae7ffec58> . WSU WORKSHOPS & EVENTS <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/98bea72c-495b-41a4-94c0-48510b7b49cf.jpg> View all WSU events! <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=b780cd0173&e=bae7ffec58> Starts Tuesday! Cultivating Success Agricultural Entrepreneurship January 20 – March 10, 2026 Online, Tuesdays 6:00 pm–8:00 pm (in-person Intensive 2/28 in Bremerton) Register and learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9f7e2d245c&e=bae7ffec58> Fee: $200 per farm (covers up to 3 participants) “One of the most valuable courses I’ve ever done!”- 2024 participant “While I'm sort of making this up as I go along, I do feel that the WSU class gave me valuable knowledge for starting this business- it's made the learning curve less intimidating, and I've been able to utilize several of the outside links to help figure things out.” – 2024 participant "With the support of the Cultivating Success Agricultural Entrepreneurship and Business Planning Course, I was able to create a business plan to use to apply for the AgWest Beginning Producer Grant, and I was awarded!" - 2025 Participant <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=5cd7938510&e=bae7ffec58> Join the statewide program and develop your farm or food business with this in-depth planning course. You'll work through key business concepts weekly online, connect with peers and mentors, and participate in regional in-person intensives to strengthen your plan. In this course you will: * Lay out your business planning structure, value proposition, and product/industry description. * Analyze market channels where you’ll sell and build your brand & customer relationships. * Develop financial tools including enterprise budgets, cash-flows and risk management plans. Who should attend? Beginning or existing farmers and food-business entrepreneurs who want to grow a sustainable business model, refine their strategy, and connect with a community of like-minded producers. New! Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Virtual online dates: 3/18 and 3/19, 9am-1pm (must attend both days) Cost: $125 Register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=1fcd88cd40&e=bae7ffec58> Who Should Attend: Fruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and co-management of natural resources and food safety. The PSA Grower Training Course is one way to satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in § 112.22(c) that requires At least one supervisor or responsible party for your farm must have successfully completed food safety training at least equivalent to that received under standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration. What to Expect at the PSA Grower Training Course: The trainers will spend approximately seven hours of instruction time covering content contained in these seven modules: * Introduction to Produce Safety * Worker Health, Hygiene, and Training * Soil Amendments * Wildlife, Domesticated Animals, and Land Use * Agricultural Water (Part I: Production Water; Part II: Postharvest Water) * Postharvest Handling and Sanitation * How to Develop a Farm Food Safety Plan New! Improving End‑of‑Life Outcomes for Plastic Mulch Webinar Series Agricultural plastic mulch plays a vital role in crop production, yet its end‑of‑life challenges continue to grow. This series brings together leading experts from universities, industry, and engineering to explore practical, science‑based strategies for a more sustainable future. Topics: Jan. 20 – Mulch Benefits, Burdens, and Beyond by Lisa DeVetter and Markus Flury, Washington State University Feb. 3 – Mulch Film Recycling by Gene Jones, SWIX Feb.17 – Recycling through Mechanization by Ben Andros, Andros Engineering March 10 – Plastics and Sustainability in the Strawberry Industry by Hillary Thomas, Naturipe March 24 – Biodegradable Mulch by Shuresh Ghimire, University of Connecticut April 7 – Economic Considerations by Suzette Galinato, Washington State University May 5 – Circularity and Extended Producer Responsibility by Pierre Sarazin, PolyExpert Register for series here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=0907c07282&e=bae7ffec58> . COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSES New! 3rd Annual Food Security Summit January 29, 8:30-1pm Finnriver Cidery, Chimacum Join Jefferson County Public Health for an inspiring morning focused on crafting strategies and action plans aimed at creating more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food systems. We are inviting those with surplus edible food: grocery stores, restaurants, caterers, schools, hospitals, farmers, gleaners, etc. to join those who serve people in need of food: food banks, churches, shelters, etc. and share needs and ideas to help solve this problem. Goals: A mission at Jefferson County Public Works/Solid Waste is to support the best use of edible food – getting it to those in need and not going to landfill. To this end, we want to bring partners together to answer these questions: Who in our community is not being fed? Where are they? Who are our food delivery programs? Who has surplus edible food they want to get to those in need? What are our greatest problems we need to solve soon? Where do we have the capacity to collaborate? Time? Money? Strong board? Volunteers? How can we make this information easily available to all of us? Questions? Please contact me at Ltucker@co.jefferson.wa.us <mailto:Ltucker@co.jefferson.wa.us> or call 360-379-4491 New! POWER YOUR FARM OR SMALL BUSINESS with Renewable Energy and Efficiency January 29th, 1-3pm WSU Kitsap Extension Campus, Bremerton With Pierce and Kitsap Conservation Districts and WSU Extension Register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=6d3b9d66bf&e=bae7ffec58> You’ll gain a clear understanding of energy audits and efficiency improvements, along with detailed guidance on the USDA Renewable Energy for America Program (REAP), including what it covers and how to apply. There are opportunities for grant writing assistance, utility incentives, tax subsidies, and financing support to help you purchase energy-efficient equipment or install small-scale renewable energy systems. New! Post-disaster Tax Strategies for Farmers and Ranchers (Pacific Northwest) January 29th, 11am-12:30pm Register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=a6b46fe4b5&e=bae7ffec58> . Has your farm or ranch recently been impacted by wildfire or flooding? You're not alone, and planning your financial recovery starts here. Join Poppy Davis of California Farm Link along with Farmer Campus and American Farmland Trust for a practical session on navigating tax season after a natural disaster. This discussion will cover essential tax considerations as part of a broader financial recovery plan, with a focus on farms affected by recent flooding and wildfires across the Northwest. New! Washington Farmers Market Conference February 20-21, Bremerton Register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=d79073a31b&e=bae7ffec58> . Connect with fellow market managers, board members, volunteers, vendors, and partners to share ideas and best practices. Hear from peers and experts on topics like marketing strategies, food access programs, and community engagement. New! Good Food Connections & Food Action Plan Summit March 9, Seattle Learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=a8d3f68b4a&e=bae7ffec58> . Good Business Network of Washington and the City of Seattle present Good Food Connections 2026 x Food Action Plan Summit, a farm-and-sea-to-table trade conference uniting farmers, fishers, artisans, chefs, buyers, and community food stakeholders around a common table. RESOURCES Funding & Business NOW OPEN! Washington Organic and Sustainable Farm Grant Applications due 2/9 Learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=77797d0236&e=bae7ffec58> Tilth is pleased to announce that it has secured funding for the 2026 WA Organic and Sustainable Farm Grant cycle. This grant is for applicants who are committed to implementing sustainable, regenerative, and climate-friendly practices on their farms. Feel free to email Rae at raerussell@tilthalliance.org <mailto:raerussell@tilthalliance.org> with any questions. New! Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund Deadline to apply: Tuesday, February 17 Learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=3bd668277b&e=bae7ffec58> . The Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund is a small grant program that provides direct assistance to veterans who are in their beginning years of farming or ranching. The Fellowship Fund does not give money directly to the veteran, but rather to third-party vendors for items the veteran has identified will make a crucial difference in the launch of their farm business. Awards range from $1,000 to $5,000, and nearly $4 million has been awarded to more than 930 veterans since 2011. New! USDA Value-added Producer Grant Deadline to apply: Wednesday, April 15, 10 a.m. PST Watch infosession here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=654ceaf944&e=bae7ffec58> . The Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program helps U.S. agricultural producers enter into value-added activities that: * Generate new products from raw agricultural commodities * Create and expand marketing opportunities * Increase producer income through enhanced product value and market reach These grants support either: * Planning activities (e.g., feasibility studies, business and marketing plans) * Grant amounts up to $50,000 * Working capital needs (e.g., processing, packaging, advertising, inventory, and salaries) * Grant amounts up to $200,000 These grants require a 1:1 match, which may include cash or eligible in-kind contributions. Farmer Support and Information New! AGRISTRESS Helpline: Call or text 833-897-2474 Learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=ef0a9450b6&e=bae7ffec58> . The AgriStress Helpline® is a free and confidential crisis and support line that you can call or text 24/7. Phone calls have interpretation available in 160 languages, and text message services are available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. The helpline is answered by trained professionals who can offer emotional and crisis support and help you find mental health and agriculture-related resources in your area. We know that agriculture is unique – that is why our crisis specialists have received training on the factors that impact people working in agriculture. New! Therapy Vouchers for Farmers from WSU Extension If you're feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to turn, WSU Extension's Free Therapy Voucher Program offers 6 free online sessions with a trained psychologist. You are not alone and your mental health matters! Find vouchers here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=5663917db8&e=bae7ffec58> . New Extension Factsheet! Keeping Our Farms Safe: Protecting Against H5N1 Choosing to take recommended actions demonstrates values that make your farm healthy. Strong farm values like leadership and self-responsibility protect your herd and the future of your farm. Highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) poses a serious threat to both poultry and human health. The purpose of this resource is to help Extension educators learn about prevention, understand how farmers can protect their farms and communities, and determine actions needed to stay safe. Read more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id =64d00fdb38&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Sequim Food Bank Seeking Livestock Farmers for Food Waste Pickup Anybody interested should reach out to Josh at the Sequim Food Bank at info@sequimfoodbank.org <mailto:info@sequimfoodbank.org> Ask a Soil Scientist Have a burning soil health question? You are in luck. WaSHI has a team of expert soil scientists who can answer some of the most challenging soil science questions. Ask a question! <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=6aed94661b&e=bae7ffec58> Interested in organic certification? Check out these new services to learn more about organic certification <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=23e8a78f31&e=bae7ffec58> Are you considering organic certification? Have questions about the certification process? The Northwest Transition to Organic Partnership Program (NW TOPP) now offers services to help producers through the organic certification process: * Connect with a certified organic mentor through a farmer-to-farmer mentorship program. Mentors available throughout Washington! * Talk with an organic certification specialist for one-on-one assistance with the certification process, paperwork, and understanding regulations. * Attend educational events, including workshops, webinars, field days and more all centered on organic production and certification. * Get help with navigating organic certification and production resources. Get answers to your organic certification questions! Contact Hanna, Organic Transition Specialist, at TOPP@tilth.org <mailto:TOPP@tilth.org> or 541-286-7228. Learn more, find events, resources, and apply for mentorship at organictransition.org <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=b290095ff4&e=bae7ffec58> LAND, FARM & EQUIPMENT LISTINGS Find - Sell - Lease Farmland Washington Farmland Trust Farm to Farmer Program aims to support landowners in the farm transfer process while helping create land opportunities that allow local producers to succeed in farming. The Farm to Farmer website allows participants to post listings about their land or farm business interests in Washington State. Browse listings or list your land here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=03f14d1179&e=bae7ffec58> . Want to include your listing in this newsletter? Email Kellie a link to your listing or attach a pdf, to kellie.henwood@wsu.edu. JOB & INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Are you hiring farm crew for the 2026 season? Email us your job opportunity and we'll post seasonal positions here to over 1200+ subscribers. New! Multiple positions hiring soon, River Run Farm, Sequim See website for more details <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=ee854c6c8c&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Part and Full-Time Farm Crew, Chi's Farm, Sequim See website for more details <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f807ef9c7d&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Pack shed Manager and Field Crew, Red Dog Farm, Chimacum See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=87b7a0f4a5&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Farm Crew, Dharma Ridge Farm, Chimacum and Quilcene Email dharmaridge@gmail.com New! Plant Care Specialist, SpringRain Farm and Orchard, Chimacum See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=64e2cb0d73&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Part and Full-Time Farm Crew, Around the Table Farm, Poulsbo See the website for more details <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=55d75b6ce9&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Community Events and Development Coordinator, Poulsbo Farmers Market, Poulsbo See job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=09ab8d032a&e=bae7ffec58> . Want to include your job listing in this newsletter? Email Kellie a link to your listing or attach a pdf, to kellie.henwood@wsu.edu. You made it to the bottom! We strive to include as many newsletter requests to the best of our ability. Please email us <mailto:kellie.henwood@wsu.edu?subject=Newsletter%20request> with questions or inclusion requests. WSU Regional Small Farms Team <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/5e637cc7-829a-b435-e01e-e3cd64fed12a.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/259ccd14-a240-b14f-3b15-88dea24a0339.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/fc110ef7-acbe-9900-dcbe-0f0406e7878f.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/bf616ce3-db5c-f34e-e3a1-b15956bf969c.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/a3929f30-bd64-265e-0750-236b2107b4c4.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/2173bf46-da2f-4cc8-3772-2bb8d0e133e7.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/581123a0-50d6-2007-9cce-fc71b5184a9d.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/dda71d67-0aa5-faa7-398e-f071e03d8fb6.png> WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact your local WSU Extension office at least two weeks prior to the event. <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=ecdc4e7ac4&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=fd7f794e90&e=bae7ffec58> <mailto:kellie.henwood@wsu.edu> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f94a82d0f4&e=bae7ffec58> Copyright © 2026 WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program 121 Oak Bay Rd Port Hadlock, WA 98339 Add us to your address book <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/vcard?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d> This email was sent to jeffbocc@co.jefferson.wa.us <mailto:jeffbocc@co.jefferson.wa.us> why did I get this? <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/about?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d&e=bae7ffec58&c=2479256832> unsubscribe from this list <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/unsub scribe?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d&t=b&e=bae7ffec58&c=2479256832> update subscription preferences <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/profile?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d &e=bae7ffec58&c=2479256832> WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program · 121 Oak Bay Rd · Port Hadlock, WA 98339 · USA <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/open.php?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=2479256832&e=bae7ffec58>