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HomeMy WebLinkAbout100526 - WSU Agriculture Newsletter - October 2026ALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them. Grants, Land for Lease, Events, Farmer Resources, Job Opportunities and more View this email in your browser <https://mailchi.mp/wsu/wsu-agriculture-newsletter-17607700?e=bae7ffec58> October 5, 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://us.list-manage.com/8BNkZzOwaAs?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> 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! New SARE Handbook: Cover Crops: Improving Soil Health, Stewardship and Profitability on the Farm Research shows that cover crops can improve soil, break pest cycles, reduce input costs and improve yields. But choosing the right cover crops, and managing them successfully, can require careful consideration to identify the right mix of species, timing, and equipment that best serve your farm’s goals. SARE’s newest handbook, Cover Crops: Improving Soil Health, Stewardship and Profitability on the Farm <https://us.list-manage.com/KJMONGrTYC6?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> helps farmers improve their understanding of how cover crops can fit into their operations. WSU WORKSHOPS & EVENTS <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/98bea72c-495b-41a4-94c0-48510b7b49cf.jpg> <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/cf5eccd8-7e9b-d0ba-047a-f2af8a500b7f.png> New! Building Fencing that Lasts: New Zealand-Style, High Tensile Fencing Wednesday, October 27th 10:00 am-1:00 pm Twin Vista Ranch Learn more and register here <https://us.list-manage.com/klwrDeDqmSt?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> Join WSU Jefferson County Extension 4-H and WSU Regional Small Farms for this interactive fencing class. The class will take place at Twin Vista Ranch, a WSU-owned farm on Marrowstone Island, where farm manager Dean Hyden raises his flock of sheep. Dean will provide in-depth instruction on New Zealand-style high tensile fencing, a type of low-maintenance, permanent fencing. He’ll be joined by representatives from Kiwi Fencing, who will share their practical knowledge and expertise. In addition to learning from industry professionals, participants will receive educational information and resources from WSU Extension, including references to fencing materials, tools, and additional resources to help them evaluate options that best fit their operation. The workshop will begin with classroom instruction. This will be an overview of the NZ style fencing, including: * Cost-benefit analysis of high tensile fencing * Required materials * Necessary tools for construction or maintenance * Safety when constructing a fence * Energizing a high tensile fence * Understanding braces * How to troubleshoot issues and do simple repairs * Using temporary fencing for grazing in a NZ style fencing setup Participants will then get the opportunity to help construct a straight span of fencing on the farm, putting classroom knowledge immediately to practical use. Participants must bring their own gloves and safety glasses if they’d like to participate in fence construction. Additionally, they are encouraged to come dressed for all weather conditions, including cold, heavy rain. The classroom portion of the class will take place in a heated room and the rest will take place outdoors. Speakers: Dean Hyden, Twin Vista Ranch Farm Manager, joined by Kiwi Fencing Audience: 4-H students, livestock ranchers or owners, or anyone that has or dreams of having a flock (or herd!) of their own. Please only register for the farm walk if you plan to attend as there is limited space for this event. If you register and are unable to come, we kindly ask that you inform us at least 48 hours before the event so that we may open registration to other interested farmers. If you go to register and there are no spaces available, please email clare.menard@wsu.edu <mailto:clare.menard@wsu.edu> to be put on our cancellation list. 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 Jess Sappington at 345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / 360-228-7308 at least two weeks prior to the event. View all WSU events! <https://us.list-manage.com/10ymO8YnJCL?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSES New! Calling Local Farmers: Winter Growers Table, Port Angeles Farmers Market Want to keep selling your farm products through the winter? The Port Angeles Farmers Market Winter Growers Table <https://us.list-manage.com/JB8SlZGh0oX?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3 d8b1> offers local farmers a simple way to get products in front of customers during the off-season. Bring your overwintered, greenhouse-grown, late-season, or shelf-stable goods and let PAFM help with sales. Interested in participating or want to learn more? Visit the Winter Growers Table page at portangelesfarmersmarket.com/winter <https://us.list-manage.com/Rb9BASytQzd?e=bae7 ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> for details and participation information Save the Date! Tilth Conference, Bellingham, WA November 16th - 18th See full conference information here <https://us.list-manage.com/GwpaVN58XwQ?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . RESOURCES Funding & Business WSDA Climate Smart Equipment Grant <https://us.list-manage.com/1FfGqBSanQw?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> If you've been thinking about investing in equipment that can improve soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, or make your farm more resilient, now is the time to start planning. The program will reimburse eligible Washington farming operations for a portion of the cost of qualifying equipment, including: * No-till drills * Electric tractors * Compost spreaders * Electric pumps * GPS precision agriculture equipment * Other technologies that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions or improve carbon storage. Applications open September 4. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Farms are encouraged to prepare ahead of time and submit applications as early as possible. Learn more here <https://us.list-manage.com/12eGhbPFt_3?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . New! For Farmers Movement Grant Application deadline: Monday October 12, 9 p.m. PST. The For Farmers Movement awards grants to small and mid-sized American farmers to support needs defined by the farmers themselves. Learn more here <https://us.list-manage.com/OT1_8bO2zUe?e=bae7ffec58 &c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . Three levels of grants are available: * Foundational Grants: $500 to $1000 for infrastructure, equipment, supplies, innovation, making up for a loss and more. We will award a minimum of 100 of these grants.​ * Land Stewardship Grant: $5,000 for a farm that is committed to caring for the land in ways that strengthen soil, protect natural resources, and support the long-term health of the farm and its surrounding ecosystem. We will award one Land Stewardship Grant. * Transformational Grant: $10,000 for farm project that has a profound impact on farm operations and the community. We will award at least one Transformational Grant. Made possible with support from a private foundation. New! New Generation Farmer Fund By National Young Farmers Coalition Learn more and apply here <https://us.list-manage.com/ycLkKp1UiAn?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> Applications will open in October 2026, with recipients announced in early 2027 The Next Generation Farmer Fund will provide funding and technical assistance to young, regenerative farmers and ranchers across the country. * Grants awarded will range from $10,000 to $50,000. * Eligible practices will include carbon sequestration and soil health efforts, water quality improvements, biodiversity, supply chain resilience initiatives, and other efforts. * Open to young and beginning farmers and ranchers under the age of 40 who are stewarding land through sustainable farming practices. New! Farm to Stay Grant Program Eligibility and guideline details will be made available before applications open in late November 2026. Learn more and apply here <https://us.list-manage.com/BsASCyat5le?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> Airbnb and American Farmland Trust are launching the Farm to Stay Grant Program through AFT’s Brighter Future Fund. This national grant will support farmers and ranchers creating or expanding farm stays and experiences as an additional income stream. They will distribute approximately 25-30 grants of up to $10,000 each. Farmers and ranchers are navigating rising costs, volatile markets, and weather-related risks. At the same time, traveler interest in rural destinations and farm stays is growing. Not only will this partnership help farmers and ranchers build an additional income stream; it will also give more people a meaningful connection to working farms and ranches and the families who operate them. New! Zero Footprint Restore Grants Deadline to apply: November 4 Learn more and apply here <https://us.list-manage.com/1h2E5J_8Sxc?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> Farmers and ranchers can receive up to $25k to implement climate-smart practices that sequester carbon. The primary goal of the program is to sequester atmospheric carbon in the form of soil organic carbon, resulting in myriad co-benefits for the public ranging from climate resilience to improved nutrient density. The secondary goals of the program are to distribute funds in a manner that reflects the following values: (1) spurring broader adoption of regenerative agricultural practices; (2) increasing awareness of and demand for ingredients produced through regenerative agriculture; and (3) distributing Restore funds equitably. New! Organic Certification Cost Share Program Deadline to apply: December 31, 2026 Learn more and apply here <https://us.list-manage.com/Y0UYBONssDu?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> USDA has opened the Organic Certification Cost Share Program to reimburse certification fees for 2025 and 2026. The program will reimburse 75%, up to $750 of certification fees for each certification scope (crops, livestock, wild crops, and handling). Producers are eligible to apply for reimbursement for 2025 and 2026 certification fees. To apply, contact your local USDA Farm Service Agency office. (Find your office) <https://us.list-manage.com/H0tyUwlbdUg?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> Or contact the PNW Regional Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) <https://us.list-manage.com/s2jC7a30MQb?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . Farmer Support and Information Farmer Mental Health Resources AGRISTRESS Helpline: Call or text 833-897-2474 Learn more here <https://us.list-manage.com/igr8SEQBlBL?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . 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://us.list-manage.com/mj2a42sij64?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . 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://us.list-manage.com/hicax2VFCFl?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> LAND, FARM & EQUIPMENT LISTINGS Find - Sell - Lease Farmland New! 320 prime ag acres for lease, Sequim - Sequim Valley Ranch is offering 320 available acres of prime agricultural land for lease, perfectly suited for research, cultivation, agricultural extensions, and farmers looking for land to utilize in crop or hay production. Located in the fertile Sequim Valley, this property provides an exceptional environment for high-yield farming and agricultural study. Key Features: * Premium Soil: Rich, well-draining sandy loam soil ideal for a diverse range of crops. * Guaranteed Water: Advanced pressurized water system backed by reliable water reservoirs to ensure an uninterrupted supply throughout the growing season. * Scale & Flexibility: Up to 320 contiguous acres available for immediate lease, customizable to project needs and seasons. For leasing terms and inquiries, please contact Sean Tracy, PH: 360-932-9386 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://us.list-manage.com/wcUuyJQ7Ehw?e= bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . Equipment Listings New! Glendale Farm, Chimacum - Shared space for rent in walk-in cooler/freezer. Each space is approximately 20 cubic feet and costs $30 per month, plus a shared portion of the electricity bill. Some shelving is available, and the space has monitored access and backup generator support. Interested folks can contact Seth Sexton to check current availability, ask questions, or arrange a viewing. Seth Sexton, 206-484-8779, Sethsexton@gmail.com <mailto:Sethsexton@gmail.com> , glendalefarm.org <https://us.list-manage.com/gaTzLo5_V0k?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70 d4241c3d8b1> New! Red Dog Farm, Chimacum - Three tractors and a variety of farm equipment/supplies for sale. See Craigslist listing for a full list of equipment <https://us.list-manage.com/JNJ2c6JlnLY?e=bae7ffec5 8&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . 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! Development Manager, North Olympic Land Trust See full job description <https://us.list-manage.com/1CSF4E9E1w1?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> . 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/bc696b38-4097-fdff-9751-33d0f9d4927d.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://us.list-manage.com/1CFyOMRXZPZ?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> <https://us.list-manage.com/1CTDzynUEqt?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> <mailto:kellie.henwood@wsu.edu> <https://us.list-manage.com/3vKgHs_RsLx?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1> 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=9d780e38c8> unsubscribe from this list <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/unsub scribe?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d&t=b&e=bae7ffec58&c=9d780e38c8> update subscription preferences <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/profile?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d &e=bae7ffec58&c=9d780e38c8> WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program · 121 Oak Bay Rd · Port Hadlock, WA 98339 · USA <https://us.list-manage.com/4rj5FA4NM7cUCtGLmIuFuD?e=bae7ffec58&c2id=d07d78f77d34a9e320b70d4241c3d8b1>