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HomeMy WebLinkAbout040626 - WSU Agriculture Newsletter - April 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-17601880?e=bae7ffec58> April 6, 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=450f280250&e=bae7ffec58> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/31ec4d26-b116-5b25-2360-1e1a589d7d78.png> Photo credit: WSU Skagit County Extension 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 Help Shape New Sweetpotato Growing Guides for Western Washington <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/917de1fe-0bfb-ee35-4996-fde927fbcef3.jpg> Over the past three years, 61 farmers and 30 gardeners across western Washington have participated in sweetpotato growing trials through a partnership between the WSU NWREC Vegetable Program and the Regional Small Farms Program, with funding from Western SARE. Insights and feedback from these trials have helped shape a new series of sweetpotato growing guides designed to support successful production in western Washington’s unique climate. Now, we’re inviting educators, advisors, farmers and others to review these guides and share feedback to ensure they are clear, useful, and accessible for a wide range of audiences. You can help by reviewing the guides on the WSU NWREC sweetpotato webpage (organized into six sections) <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=5b2a99c0d3&e=ba e7ffec58> and completing a short feedback survey by Monday, February 16. <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=fa8359099a&e=bae7ffec58> Feel free to share this opportunity with others who may be interested, and keep an eye out for a follow-up survey in the coming weeks to review a set of short sweetpotato videos. Complete Sweetpotato Survey Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=bd9dcc1ce2&e=bae7ffec58> LAST CHANCE! Take Our 2026 Integrated Pest Management Needs Survey <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=056215c323&e=bae7ffec58> Help WSU Regional Small Farms Program plan education on Integrated Pest Management topics for 2026 by letting us know what's bugging you! Each year, we try to schedule a handful of webinars, farm walks and other events to address some of the pest and disease problems that local farmers are struggling with. Take the IPM Needs Survey <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=00ea70fa56&e=bae7ffec58> IN THE NEWS New! USDA Tenure, Ownership, and Transition of Agricultural Land Survey Do you lease land? Do you lease land to other farmers? <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=7cecadbf0e&e=bae7ffec58> The Tenure, Ownership, and Transition of Agricultural Land (TOTAL) Survey is a comprehensive study of all land rented out for agricultural purposes, including both land rented out by those who are themselves farmers and ranchers (operator landlords) and land rented out by those who do not operate a farm themselves (non-operator landlords). This survey is a follow-on component of the Census of Agriculture program. NASS conducted the TOTAL survey in collaboration with the Economic Research Service (ERS). Why is this important? One of the most requested technical assistance requests WSU Regional Small Farms Program receives is the going farmland lease rates. However, we do not compile a comprehensive list of land values, lease or rental rates for farmers. We rely on the USDA TOTAL survey results to inform averages. The problem is that not enough farmers report on the survey, leaving Jefferson County without enough aggregated data. Help us help you by filling out the USDA TOTAL survey <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=ea89f46321&e=bae7ffec58> ! Complete Your Survey Online <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f37d9e8e77&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=9992e62627&e=bae7ffec58> New! Southwest Washington Grazing School 2026 April 16–19th Skookumchuck Grange, Tenino, Washington Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=1a6a8b012c&e=bae7ffec58> Hosted by WSU Extension in southwest Washington Join this multi-day intensive grazing school focused on livestock management, pasture health, and sustainable grazing systems. Participants will learn practical strategies for forage production, rotational grazing, and improving soil and animal health. New! Dry-Farmed Bush/Semi-Bush Squash Farm Walk #1: Early Season May 15th, 3-5 pm FREE Hosted by WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program and Roots Farm Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=0e4777fd8f&e=bae7ffec58> Join this early-season farm walk to explore dry-farmed bush and semi-bush squash production. Participants will learn about planting strategies, soil moisture management, and crop establishment techniques for dry farming systems. Part one of a two-part series focused on seasonal production practices. New! Vermicomposting and Worm-Bin Systems May 27th, 5-7 pm FREE Hosted by WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program and Roots Farm Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=aa12be1d59&e=bae7ffec58> Learn the fundamentals of vermicomposting through a hands-on farm walk focused on worm-bin systems. This workshop covers how to convert food scraps into nutrient-rich compost, system setup, and practical applications for farms and gardens. New! Dry-Farmed Bush/Semi-Bush Squash Farm Walk #2: Harvest Season September 11th, 3-5 pm FREE Hosted by WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program and Roots Farm Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=2d90d5ac3f&e=bae7ffec58> This harvest-season farm walk continues the dry-farmed squash series, highlighting crop performance, harvest timing, and yield outcomes. Participants will reflect on seasonal practices and learn techniques for evaluating success in dry farming systems. COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSES New! NRCS Soil Demonstration Trailer at HJ Carrol Park April 20th, 2pm Join Jefferson County Conservation District host the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil demonstration trailer. An educational demonstration will take place at 2pm on Monday, April 20th at HJ Carroll Park. There is no cost to attend and we welcome all interested partners, farmers, and the public to attend. The soil demonstrations will use a variety of tests to show the benefits of healthy soil. The presentation will also illustrate how different management styles can impact soil aggregate stability and influence infiltration and runoff. Visit jeffersoncd.org for more info. Landscaping with Native Plants Workshop April 19, 2026 Natembea Collective Registration info at natembea.com/events <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=748bbbb757&e=bae7ffec58> Learn how to design landscapes using native plants that support local ecosystems and thrive in regional conditions. This class highlights plant selection and practical strategies for creating beautiful, ecologically beneficial spaces. Hosted by Natembea in Port Townsend. New! Global Earth Repair Conference May 7-11, Fort Worden, Port Townsend A groundbreaking gathering of global change-makers dedicated to restoring ecosystems, regenerating our planet, and fostering community. Join over 70 presenters, 500+ participants in-person and thousands more on-line for five transformative days of learning, collaboration, and celebration. To register, donate or volunteer please go to the website <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track /click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e3159a60cc&e=bae7ffec58> for further information. Crop by Crop Class June 14, 2026 Natembea Collective Registration info at natembea.com/events <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=1d830dffb2&e=bae7ffec58> Take a closer look at growing practices on a crop-by-crop basis. This session dives into specific crop needs and considerations to help growers refine their production and improve outcomes. Hosted by Natembea, a collective of working farms in Port Townsend New! Save the Date: NABC Regional Ag Infrastructure Summit June 17th, Tenino This free event is hosted by the Northwest Agriculture Business Center (NABC). This year’s summit comes at a critical time for organizing and advancing agricultural infrastructure across Western Washington. As projects gain momentum, strong coordination and collaboration are more important than ever. Join regional food system partners to share updates on key projects, strengthen partnerships, and identify opportunities to move priority initiatives forward. New! Processing Chickens Workshop June 20, 2026 Natembea Collective Registration info at natembea.com/events <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f7b6715792&e=bae7ffec58> This practical workshop covers the basics of processing chickens for those raising poultry. Participants will learn about preparation, workflow, and considerations for small-scale producers. Hosted by Natembea in Port Townsend. RESOURCES Funding & Business DUE 4/15! 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=5b39e0c02e&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! Food Safety Training for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Farmers This free, USDA-funded training offers Deaf and hard-of-hearing farmers an opportunity to learn how to comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and Produce Safety Rule (PSR), which are required for most growers selling over $33,297 annually. Delivered in American Sign Language (ASL), the two-day course focuses on practical food safety practices to help farmers maintain compliance and ensure a safe food supply. Trainings will be held in early 2026 at multiple locations across the Pacific Northwest and California, and all travel expenses are covered. Participants can register online to secure a spot. Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=5c8163eac4&e=bae7ffec58> . New! WSU Young Farmers Research Study A WSU Masters student is conducting a research study about how young farmers’ goals and strategies for professional networking have evolved with the rise of social media technologies. The project is an online survey for young farmers (ages 18 to 35) to better understand their experiences connecting with agricultural professionals. I will also be conducting follow-up interviews via Zoom with a subset of young farmers. Eligibility for study participation: * Young farmers ages 18-35 * Live and farm in Washington State* * Use social media platforms * Fluent in English *Must be actively making decisions: farm owner, farm manager, or other decision maker. Participation in this research is voluntary, and all identifying information will be removed. Link to survey <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=ae78b6f777&e=bae7ffec58> . Contact info: Corinna Cauchy, MS in Agriculture Candidate, Washington State University, corinna.cauchy@wsu.edu <mailto:corinna.cauchy@wsu.edu> New! Farm Walks Podcast Episodes A new season of Farm Walks Podcast episodes just launched. Listen while you're out farming! Listen here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=3bbd5c9e24&e=bae7f fec58> . New! WSDA Bee Atlas Farm Project Bee Atlas Farm Project invites farmers to partner in a statewide effort to better understand and protect native pollinators. By hosting trained volunteers, farms become part of a research network documenting which native bee species are present and which plants they rely on. This data helps inform pollinator-friendly practices, improve habitat, and support long-term agricultural resilience. Participants gain insight into pollinator activity on their land while contributing to a broader effort to map and conserve Washington’s diverse native bee populations. Learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=92d37d390f&e=bae7ffec58> . AGRISTRESS Helpline: Call or text 833-897-2474 Learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=74571e0e10&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. 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=fff5e6f34d&e=bae7ffec58> . 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=17a9fba51d&e=bae7ffec58> LAND, FARM & EQUIPMENT LISTINGS New! New Land Transfer Specialist at American Farmland Trust PNW American Farmland Trust has expanded its Pacific Northwest Land Transfer Support Program, now offering free succession planning assistance to farmers and ranchers across Washington State. The program provides one-on-one coaching, resources, and connections to legal and business experts to help landowners plan for the future of their farms. With many producers nearing retirement and lacking clear transition plans, this support helps reduce the risk of land loss and ensures farms can be passed on to the next generation. Through a growing team of Land Transfer Specialists and partnerships with local organizations, AFT is working to make succession planning more accessible, inclusive, and effective statewide. Request support here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=1498ec446f&e=bae7ffec58> . 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=861f0a6f16&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 (kellie.henwood@wsu.edu) your job opportunity and we'll post seasonal positions here to over 1200+ subscribers. New! Executive Director, Jefferson Land Trust See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=a016f6688d&e=bae7ffec58> . Field Crew and Packshed Lead, Chimalow Produce, Chimacum See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=15012e5a22&e=bae7ffec58> . Multiple positions hiring soon, River Run Farm, Sequim See website for more details <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e575a13ee2&e=bae7ffec58> . 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=f89d747027&e=bae7ffec58> . Farm Crew, Dharma Ridge Farm, Chimacum and Quilcene Email dharmaridge@gmail.com Plant Care Specialist, SpringRain Farm and Orchard, Chimacum See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=8732b1b9c7&e=bae7ffec58> . 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=7757f4b7b5&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=a11d05ef76&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=421e4473c0&e=bae7ffec58> <mailto:kellie.henwood@wsu.edu> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=d4b372173e&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=70a46afbed> unsubscribe from this list <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/unsub scribe?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d&t=b&e=bae7ffec58&c=70a46afbed> update subscription preferences <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/profile?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d &e=bae7ffec58&c=70a46afbed> 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=70a46afbed&e=bae7ffec58> SI" : { "SubNamespaces" : { "Storage" : { "Events" : { "CacheOpticsV2" : { "EventFlag" : 48896 } } } } }, "Mocsi" : { "Events" : { "UpdateHostTip" : { "EventFlag" : 48896 } } } } } } } } }