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HomeMy WebLinkAbout043026 - WSU Agriculture Newsletter - May 2026ALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them. 🌷Delta Farm Sale, Events, Farmer Resources, Job Opportunities and more View this email in your browser <https://mailchi.mp/wsu/wsu-agriculture-newsletter-17602938?e=bae7ffec58> April 30, 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=4b595e71d4&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 IN THE NEWS New! 73-acre Delta Farm for sale in the Dungeness Valley Sequim, WA <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/8c9ebd8b-26d6-c894-b32e-982fec9fc854.jpg> NOTE: WSU Extension and local ag resource providers have provided technical guidance to Washington Farmland Trust on the land access and financial resources aspect of this farm sale and support keeping this valuable farm in production. The Delta Farm <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=7f6a04b0ab&e=bae7ffec58> was the first farm conserved by Washington Farmland Trust and was stewarded for many years by Nash’s Organic Produce. Because of Sequim’s unique climate and prime soils, farmland in the Dungeness Valley is among the most sought-after in the region. The land on Delta Farm drains into the Lower Dungeness River, home to six salmon species, and hosts the headwaters of Meadowbrook Creek. View the listing We are working with our brokers at CBRE to sell Delta Farm <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=a2108d4241&e=bae7ffec58> , as well as listing it via our Farm to Farmer <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=2631d03d12&e=bae7ffec58> program in order to make it available to as many interested farmers as possible. Review the sale timeline and important dates The property will be listed for 120 days. This is intended to allow buyers time to consider and explore financing, feasibility, and prepare financial statements. This extended listing period was informed by feedback from local farmers, partners, and our own values to elevate equity in land transactions. Those who submit offers will be asked to complete an application form. -Listing period: April 15, 2026 – August 16, 2026 -Offer and application review and selection period: August 17, 2026 – September 30, 2026 -Any offers and applications submitted between April 15, 2026 – August 16, 2026, will be reviewed beginning August 17, 2026. There are many ways to finance the purchase of agricultural land and different programs to access. There is not one single road map for financing the purchase of land. With the support of our partners, Washington Farmland Trust compiled a Financial Resource Guide <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=44706ea6ba&e=bae7ffec58> to support interested buyers. Attend a virtual information session May 20, 2026 | 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. If you are considering making an offer on the property or are assessing whether an offer is a feasible option for you, we invite you to join our virtual information session. Attendees will have a chance to ask questions, meet Washington Farmland Trust staff, as well as learn more about our organization, the property, the easement, and the sale process. Spanish interpretation will be available during the Q&A. Register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=d3a4185c9f&e=bae7ffec58> . View Farmland Listing <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e8219eada3&e=bae7ffec58> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/8374b9fd-ddfe-7027-9aa6-489254ee6813.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/46c64f61-d081-92e7-2e49-a14331ba1068.png> Support Food Access and Local Farms! Did you know you can support food access and local farms in our tri–county region? Join us in spreading the word about Kitsap Farmers Fighting Hunger and the Olympic Peninsula Farm to Food Bank Fund- two nonprofit community funds dedicated to supporting food systems and community heath through paid contracts with local farms for food banks and food access sites. Donations to these funds go to purchasing local food for food pantries where food is distributed for free to folks experiencing food insecurity. Food banks across our region are reporting increased need and fresh produce is one of the most often requested items. Farm to food bank purchases strengthen our food system through increased economic opportunities and expanded relationships to local farms. Both of the Kitsap Farmers Fighting Hunger and the Olympic Peninsula Farm to Food Bank Fund grew out of years of Farm to Food Pantry programing with the nonprofit Harvest Against Hunger <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=cf37ae6af5&e=bae7ffec58> and the WSDA, programming that continues to support local food access in all three counties and across Washington State. However, federal funding cuts have left a gap in resources making community funds essential to meeting local needs. Link to the fund websites to learn more about the Kitsap Farmers Fighting Hunger <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e08b5db419&e=bae7ffec58> , serving Kitsap County and the Olympic Peninsula Farm to Food Bank Fund <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=b4f8e0e8f5&e=bae7ffec58> serving Clallam and Jefferson Counties. <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/2053bd99-111c-bcba-5f09-d2d648821c77.jpg> WSU WORKSHOPS & EVENTS <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/98bea72c-495b-41a4-94c0-48510b7b49cf.jpg> New! Pasture Planting and Renovation Workshop May 6th, 3:00-5:00 pm Poulsbo, WA Hosted by Kitsap Conservation District, WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program, and Woodpecker Hill Farms Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=8d5abc44f5&e=bae7ffec58> Do you want beautiful, green, productive pastures? Do you want to feed less hay? Join us at Woodpecker Hill Farms in Poulsbo for the Pasture Planting and Renovation Workshop! WSU Regional Small Farms is excited to partner with Kitsap Conservation District and local farmers to host this workshop. New! Rotational Grazing Workshop at Bent Gate Farms May 11th, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Sequim, WA Hosted by WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program and Bent Gate Farms Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=6ef8f43c28&e=bae7ffec58> Join us at Bent Gate Farms, a diversified livestock farm in Port Angeles. See rotational grazing in action and learn how to implement it on your farm. While Bent Gate Farms currently focuses on cattle and pigs, historically, they also raised sheep and poultry. Hear from farm owner Anna Swanberg about lessons learned over the years raising different species of animals and their choice to focus on pugs and cattle. This workshop will focus on why they rotationally graze their animals and what that setup looks like on their farm in practical terms. This workshop is for people who raise livestock on pasture-beginner to advanced, farmers, small-acreage owners, or those interested in someday having livestock. 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=53f650fac4&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! Future-Proofing Small Fruits: Climate Challenges and Mitigation May 20th, 6:00-7:15 pm FREE Hosted by WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program Registration Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=072db5055e&e=bae7ffec58> Key topics include: climate change, implications on small fruits, and mitigation methods. Join WSU Regional Small Farms Program for a virtual Dirt Talk with Lisa Wasko DeVetter. Lisa is a Professor of Horticulture and leads the statewide Small Fruit Horticulture program at Washington State University’s Northwestern Washington Research and Extension Center in Mount Vernon. Her research and outreach program focuses on maximizing productivity, fruit quality, and on‑farm efficiencies while protecting the natural resources essential to small fruit production in the Pacific Northwest. Key areas of work include pollination services, abiotic stress management, end‑of‑life management of agricultural plastics, machine‑harvesting technologies, and nutrient management. 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=e7e870a156&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. 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=ec503b1ea9&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. View all WSU events! <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=c1593b2394&e=bae7ffec58> COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSES New! An Introduction to Biodynamic Farming with Wali Via Hosted by Butler Green Farm School, Bainbridge Island Butler Green Farm School is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to cultivate the next generation of farmers on Bainbridge Island through education and community engagement. Registration here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=1b2fd74399&e=bae7ffec58> . Explore biodynamic farming—preparations, composting, the farm as a living organism and its spiritual side. Q&A included. Wali will provide an overview of primary principles of biodynamics, including viewing the farm as an organism, cosmic influences on agriculture, the biodynamic preparations, composting, and recognizing the non-material (spiritual) aspects of life when engaging in agriculture. This event is free to attend; please bring your questions, and we look forward to having you! Save the Date! Tilth Conference, Bellingham, WA November 16th - 18th See full conference information here 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=0c8eee8bf7&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=e0e6603af6&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 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. 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=7a5599747a&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 TODAY 4/30! AgCare Fund, Washington Young Farmers Coalition and Russell Family Foundation More info here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=cb39fd3289&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=cb5 3ad7389&e=bae7ffec58> and application here. <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f44f195b1c&e=bae7ffec58> This program will provide direct funds in support of mental health for farm workers and farmers in Washington. This round of funding will prioritize historically marginalized communities, those who have experienced a natural disaster, or loss of federal funding. Funds could be used for and not limited to: * Direct costs of mental health treatment * Costs of other health treatment or expense that may impact mental health * Support for barriers associated with mental health needs (transit, housing, medication) * General expenses for health and well being (relaxation, self care, staycation) * General expenses related to farming that cause worry or harm to mental health (lease, inputs) * General expenses related to everyday living (groceries, bills) * General expenses related to dependents (childcare, etc.) Farmer Support and Information New! Farm Transfer Toolkit Just Released From American Farmland Trust View Farm Transfer Toolkit <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=a9b3e0f2a7&e=bae7ffec58> The Farm Transfer Toolkit is designed for agricultural landowners who seek to transfer their land, operation, or both to an incoming producer. The toolkit covers key steps in a farm transfer process. It contains information, worksheets and other tools to help users set goals, assess their finances, communicate with stakeholders, and work with professionals and key stakeholders to finalize decisions and implement a transfer plan. 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=2f72676731&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Soil Co-op for Small Growers – Order Now Open Agnew Grocery is organizing the third annual soil co-op for small growers and farms on the North Olympic Peninsula. This has been a highly successful effort and continues to be a critical resource for those doing their own seeding. The co-op offers baled growing mix from Sungro (Canada), packaged in 3.5 cu ft bales. Soil is available by the pallet (30 bales) or with a 5-bale minimum order. This opportunity is intended for small-scale growers and farmers. There is currently space for 14 additional pallets in this year’s order (26 already committed), so please help spread the word to anyone who may benefit from accessing soil at cost. Details: * Product: Sungro professional growing mix, 3.5 cu ft bales * Order minimum: 5 bales (30 bales per pallet) * Who can participate: Small growers and farms doing their own seeding * Pickup location: Agnew Grocery * Timing: Order and pickup details will be shared upon confirmation * Cost & payment: Provided upon inquiry To request an order form and full details (including pricing and deadlines), please contact: Leilani Wood at leilani@olypen.com Farmer Mental Health Resources AGRISTRESS Helpline: Call or text 833-897-2474 Learn more here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9f9b30f067&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=1a56726265&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=13b50ad308&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=8a8f557e56&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 jobs in the food and ag sector? Email us (kellie.henwood@wsu.edu) your job opportunity and we'll post seasonal positions here to over 1200+ subscribers. New! General Manager and Warehouse Lead, Kitsap Fresh, Poulsbo See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=48825cfcc6&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Clallam Americorps VISTA Summer Associate positions Field Gleaning Position, Food Bank Kitchen and Produce Management Position, School Garden Position See full job descriptions here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=c0b5e6f71c&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Americorps Jefferson Land Trust Habitat Enhancement Crew Member, Jefferson County See full job description here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=4c317495d4&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Kitsap Americorps VISTA Community Food Systems Specialist Summer Associate See full job description here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f7ce241fa1&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=90c793cecb&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=16a467fed3&e=bae7ffec58> <mailto:kellie.henwood@wsu.edu> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=abb145cd79&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=e19348ce57> unsubscribe from this list <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/unsub scribe?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d&t=b&e=bae7ffec58&c=e19348ce57> update subscription preferences <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/profile?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d &e=bae7ffec58&c=e19348ce57> 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=e19348ce57&e=bae7ffec58>