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HomeMy WebLinkAbout051424 - WSU Agriculture Newsletter - May 14th_ 2024ALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them. WSU Events, Farmer Resources, Job Opportunities and more View this email in your browser <https://mailchi.mp/wsu/wsu-agriculture-newsletter-16943287?e=bae7ffec58> May 14, 2024 <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> go.wsu.edu/regionalsmallfarms <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=bf4abb88b8&e=bae7ffec58> In This Edition: * Regional Small Farms 2023 Impact Report * Meet our new Extension team members! * Latest WSU Events Reflections * WSU Workshops & Events * Community Events & Classes * Resources (funding, farmer support, food safety) * Land, Farm & Equipment Listings * Job & Internship Opportunities * In the News <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/2f655846-677a-815b-adde-01d1ee4af642.png> Read our annual report for 2023! Last year, the Regional Small Farms program continued providing educational opportunities and resources to small farms in Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap Counties. Some highlights from the year include: * Delivered 25 educational events to 381 farmer participants. * Responded to 100+ technical assistance requests serving 83 farmers across Clallam, Jefferson and Kitsap Counties. * Top inquiries: Integrate Pest Management (IPM), animal agriculture, crop production and soils. * Distributed $201,880 worth of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to 74 farms across all three counties. Read the 2023 Annual Report <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9109daba8d&e=bae7ffec58> Meet our newest Extension Team Members <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/b7d74839-b72f-6d1d-c0d1-abd137df5141.png> We are very excited to introduce Sammi Grieger, who joined our Extension team as our new Sweetpotato Technician in April. Sammi's position is through the Regional Small Farms program as part of the Sweetpotato observational trial <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=ae2a04297d&e=bae7ffec58> . This research project is investigating the efficacy of wireworm-resistant sweetpotato varieties as a direct market crop for farmers on the Olympic and Kitsap Peninsulas. Sammi will be assisting with the on-farm trials throughout the 2024 growing season by supporting participating growers, collecting and analyzing trial data, and supporting other efforts related to sweetpotato education. <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/a60a1bc2-d369-934a-b4da-5fa55a856c78.png> We are very excited to introduce Clare Menard, who joined our Extension team in Spring leading a New and Beginning Farmer project. Clare's role is working with new and beginning farmers in the three county area, from hosting workshops to connecting with them one on one to address their needs. She comes with six years of farming experience, with a focus on draft horse powered crop production and smaller livestock, specifically pigs, chickens and goats. Clare is also serving as a member on the statewide WSU Cultivating Success steering committee helping to develop beginning farmer classes. <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/ced3936b-81c4-d743-48d2-04da01aec38e.jpg> Karissa Holcombe, Kitsap County Small Farms Education Coordinator Karissa is working together with the Kitsap Community & Agricultural Alliance (KCAA) to create a series of social networking events for Kitsap Farmers. The goal of these networking opportunities is bringing Kitsap Farmers together to network, build community, create new business connections and friendships, and provide education and mentoring opportunities. Latest Events Wrap Up and Reflections... <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/eba3a21c-0348-1468-2404-dfb4735d198f.jpeg> Red Meat Butchery Workshop with Mobile Meat Classroom Over 15 meat producers and processors attended the red meat butchery workshop and demonstration with WSU meat science specialist, Paul Kuber, WSDA Regional Markets Meat Capacity Specialist, Sarah Lemon, and WaMeatUp. Participants learned quality cuts, marketing, and problem-solved bottlenecks in local meat processing. Huge thank you to Sequim High School Ag CTE program staff for hosting! <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/8e4454bc-6851-ee74-d9c8-90d8698765ce.jpeg> Farm Stress Assistance and Wellness Event 27 farmers spent the day learning and reflecting on how to reduce and manage stressors on the farm with a focus on physical, emotional, mental and financial health. Led with yoga and stretching for farmers, nutritious food provided by the PT Food Coop, multiple resource providers from the AgriAbility Program <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b359 8b&id=836d1c38cf&e=bae7ffec58> and from Jefferson Healthcare and Jefferson Public Health. Many thanks to the Inn at Port Ludlow for hosting us in a comfortable space and Dana Nixon for leading farmers in yoga stretches! <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=a15eaa43d5&e=bae7ffec58> May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Farming is hard and can be very stressful. Please know you are not alone and there are people and resources available to help. Check out the Western Regional Agricultural Stress Assistance Program <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=d4f3528cc9&e=bae7ffec58> . We believe in working together to cultivate rural resilience for all, including farmers, ranchers, and agriculture workers as they navigate increasing stress. EVENTS: See free sessions below under community events for mental health events. WSU WORKSHOPS & EVENTS <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/98bea72c-495b-41a4-94c0-48510b7b49cf.jpg> Tonight! Chicken Keeping 101 Free virtual event May 14th, 6-7pm Pre-register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=7630722057&e=bae7ffec58> Across Kitsap, Jefferson and Clallam counties, ranging from residents with small backyards to those managing large acreage, raise chickens. This class is for those new to caring for poultry and for those who would like a refresher. The focus will be on how to start a flock, how to keep your chickens healthy, common mistakes and misconceptions in poultry care, and connecting folks with resources to further build their knowledge. This class is open to farmers and homesteaders across the region and further afield. It’s for both homesteaders and small farmers new to chickens. The class is also suitable for those seeking ways to better care for an already established flock. We will be joined by guest speaker Lisa Van Horn, who will be sharing her years of knowledge as a poultry breeder and caretaker. New! Planning for an Early Cut Flower Season, Season Extension and Climate Change In-person Dirt Talk Farm Walk May 20th, 1-4pm in Poulsbo Pre-register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=eba2b1d0ba&e=bae7ffec58> . Address will be given upon registering. Combining an interactive presentation with a walk-through of the annual and perennial fields and tunnels, we will talk through tunnel growing, planning in late summer and early fall for a robust spring cut flower season and the benefits of plugs and perennials. A thread throughout this session will be the issue of climate change and how growers can best mitigate issues of unseasonably cool and wet temperatures, field flooding and unpredictability in germination and maturation times. ***This event is geared towards commercial cut flower growers who have at least 2-3 years of experience planning, growing, harvesting and selling. This foundation will make the concepts and discussions more accessible for individuals and the group. New! On-Farm Composting Dirt Talk Series Join WSU Regional Small Farms Program and Rokalu Farms for a 2-part educational series for farmers who want to learn about building, managing, and making high quality compost for use on your farm. Part 1 is a virtual dirt talk and part 2 is an in-person farm walk. Register here for one or both <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e0c13326a8&e=bae7ffec58> . To register for both, make sure you "add to cart" both dates. May 21st - virtual dirt talk, 6-7:30pm June 4th - farm walk in Port Orchard, 2-4pm New! Demystifying Debt: Leveraging Loans to Grow Your Business June 3rd, Save the date for this virtual webinar - more info coming soon <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=b2a3915862&e=bae7ffec58> In partnership with North Olympic Development Council and WSU Regional Small Farms Program. Come learn about ag lending opportunities and supports available to navigate smart debt in order to grow your farm business - from federal loan programs to local peer-to-peer investment. Also hear directly from a farmer how she has successfully taken on and leveraged different lending opportunities to scale up her business. View all WSU events! <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=2035961fe3&e=bae7ffec58> WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication or program information or reasonable accommodation need to contact WSU Extension, 121 Oak Bay Rd, 360-379-5610 at least two weeks prior to the event. COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSES New! Rural Mental Health Matters: Challenges, Opportunities & Resources for Communities Tuesday, May 23, 2023, 11am-12:30pm PST Register <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=db03ce5d1a&e=bae7ffec58> This session focuses on the resources and tools that are available in rural places, where over 60% of Americans live in mental health provider shortage areas. Speakers will examine current programs focused on giving rural and frontier communities the tools they need to thrive through creative problem solving. New! LGBTQ+ Mental Health in Rural Communities Tuesday, June 6, 11am-12:30pm PST Register <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=864c1ee462&e=bae7ffec58> This session will focus on the lived experienced of LGBTQ+ identifying folks in rural communities across the country. Discussion and dialogue will focus on mental health, the relationship to stress, and more. New! Preserving the Harvest - WSU Extension Food Preservation Online Series June 6th, 13th, 20th, & 27th online with WSU Skagit County Extension Register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=efd0281af5&e=bae7ffec58> . Learn how to preserve food! This 4 part series will help you increase your food access using safe, tested protocols that are easy to learn and follow. No equipment is necessary. New! Cowgirl Camp, Roots of Resilience New Cowgirl Camp at the Lazy R Ranch in Cheney, WA, from June 26-30, 2024. This five-day, in-person course is an immersive experience for women that combines classroom and hands-on learning in managing ecosystems with livestock. Learn more <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=82350a755b&e=bae7ffec58> . RESOURCES Funding & Business New! Funding for Climate-Friendly Forestry Through Northwest Natural Resources Group <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=292e7354ba&e=bae7ffec58> . With funding from the USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities program, NNRG can now offer cost-share assistance directly to landowners in western Washington to help their forests better withstand climate change and store more carbon — thus reducing the amount of planet-warming carbon dioxide in the air. New! New grant will allow WSU to help underserved farmers apply for loans the FSA offers programs for growers who have difficulty getting conventional loans. The USDA also recently awarded Washington State University a grant for a pilot program that will support farmers who need help navigating the FSA loan application process. Learn more <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=75bae632ed&e=bae7ffec58> . New Producer Grants, AgWest APPLICATION DEADLINE: MAY 31 This grant opportunity from AgWest Farm Credit <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=1691c372d2&e=bae7ffec58> celebrates the ingenuity and passion of new producers and can help their dreams come to fruition. This program was developed for those who have a vision for their operation but lack the funds to put their plans into action. Successful applicants will receive a one-time $15,000 grant to support their operation's growth. Eligibility requirements: WHO THIS IS FOR: New and beginning farmers with two years or less experience Marketing New and improved Washington Food and Farm Finder You can now explore the map <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=37812ca53c&e=bae7ffec58> with quick-search icons, narrow results with multiple filters, and enjoy a better user experience on both desktop and mobile devices. Farmer Support and Information New! GristCentralia seeking small-scale grain growers to purchase grain Contact Jay Ryan for more information. Small stone mill and grainery looking buy local grain from WA growers. Jay Ryan, 360 481-6263 Food Safety New! FDA Publishes Final Agricultural Water Rule On May 2nd, the FDA published a final rule on agricultural water <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=6e4c75626d&e=bae7ffec58> . The final rule replaces certain pre-harvest agricultural water requirements for covered produce (other than sprouts) in the 2015 produce safety rule with requirements for systems-based agricultural water assessments to determine and guide appropriate measures to minimize potential risks associated with pre-harvest agricultural water. The final rule can be read here <https://wsu.us19.list-manag e.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9865558dd8&e=bae7ffec58> or our friends at WSDA Produce Safety Program has an easy-to-read summary <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=36 0ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=426e293598&e=bae7ffec58> . Key Dates for Pre-Harvest Ag Water Requirements: Publication Date: May 6, 2024 Effective Date: July 5, 2024 Compliance Dates for covered farms: * Large Farms: April 5, 2025 * Small Farms: April 5, 2026 * Very Small Farms: April 5, 2027 Not sure if your farm is covered under the Produce Safety Rule? Check the WSDA status tool <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=7ed6ce535c&e=bae7ffec58> to understand your farm's regulatory status. New! CoolBot and Small-scale Cold Storage Virtual discussion with Local Food Safety Collaborative May 23rd, 10am PST Register here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=58b06431e6&e=bae7ffec58> With years of experience managing the first 5000 CoolBot customers, Patty Parsons brings invaluable insights into affordable cold storage solutions for small-scale farmers. From agriculture to florists, CoolBots have revolutionized storage practices, improving productivity and minimizing postharvest losses for producers across the globe. LAND, FARM & EQUIPMENT LISTINGS New! Seeking Push Seed Bed Roller, Roots Farm, Poulsbo Roots Farm is looking to buy a push seed bed roller, 30-36 inches wide. If you have one for sale please contact Jen Clark at rootsfarmwa@gmail.com <mailto:rootsfarmwa@gmail.com> or 360-689-5926. 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. Newest Listings as of 4/3/2024: 13 acre certified organic farm for sale West of Port Angeles - view listing <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=77699a27ec&e=bae7ffec58> 22 acre land share in Chimacum - view listing <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=7f36f2b11f&e=bae7ffec58> 10 acres for lease in Chimacum - view listing <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=41c49fc2e6&e=bae7ffec58> 4 acres for lease on Bainbridge - view listing <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e0b82bcd93&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 New! Full and Part-time Farm Internships for Veterans, Roots Farm, Poulsbo See full internship description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=468365ed51&e=bae7ffec58> (scroll down to Roots Farm). Paid! New! Plant Care Specialist, SpringRain Farm and Orchards, Chimacum See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e963b1d69d&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Farm Program Director, Tilth Alliance See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f208111605&e=bae7ffec58> . New! Inspector <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=dbcd092f77&e=bae7ffec58> and Reviewer <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b 3598b&id=541c56854d&e=bae7ffec58> , WSDA Organic Program See full job descriptions in the links above. SisterLand Farms Dignity Project hiring now, Port Angeles See full job description <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=bc2f3c4f35&e=bae7ffec58> . Want to include your job opportunity in this newsletter? Email Kellie a link to your website or attach a pdf, kellie.henwood@wsu.edu. IN THE NEWS New! Farm to Food Bank Fund Spring Fundraising Drive! Read more and donate here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=aef7a0ce2f&e=bae7ffec58> ! This fund gives our community a simple channel for contributions that will sustain farmers while lifting up food equity in Clallam and Jefferson Counties. 100% of donations go directly to Clallam and Jefferson County farmer contracts that are repaid with fruits, produce, fish, eggs, meats & other nutrient-rich, locally-produced foods. To learn more and contribute to Kitsap County's Farm to Food Pantry Program, visit their website <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=d52583d814&e=bae7ffec58> and contact Diane Fish at the Kitsap Conservation District. New! Environmental and social benefits from diversified agriculture found in global study Food security and biodiversity are both helped by diversified farming techniques, with little negative impact, according to a new paper that includes research from two Washington State University professors. Read more <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=0e1cf3e074&e=bae7ffec58> . New! The Pyramid Scheme of High Organic Amendment Rates There are many soil health benefits of applying high rates of organic amendments. Read more <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=061c6c05ee&e=bae7ffec58> . 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. Happy Spring, WSU Regional Small Farms Team 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=ebc9cbb8d7&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e229426f08&e=bae7ffec58> <mailto:kellie.henwood@wsu.edu> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9130e7451c&e=bae7ffec58> Copyright © 2024 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=0579950495> unsubscribe from this list <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/unsub scribe?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d&t=b&e=bae7ffec58&c=0579950495> update subscription preferences <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/profile?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d &e=bae7ffec58&c=0579950495> 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=0579950495&e=bae7ffec58> 晦㼦O