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HomeMy WebLinkAbout051625 - 🌸 WSU Agriculture Newsletter - May 16_ 2025ALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them. Events, Moisture Sensors, Farmer Resources, Job Opportunities and more View this email in your browser <https://mailchi.mp/wsu/wsu-agriculture-newsletter-17592150?e=bae7ffec58> May 16, 2025 <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=03f3269e23&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! Dry Farming Methods: Could it work for Farmers on the Peninsula? <https://mcusercontent.com/360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b/images/e0459ce4-5174-2f12-d05d-15499fbf6101.png> By Sammi Grieger, Agricultural Research Technician, WSU Regional Small Farms Program Dry farming is the practice of growing crops without irrigation during a dry season, by utilizing moisture stored in the soil from rain. (Dry Farming Institute 2025 <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/ track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=7689d937a8&e=bae7ffec58> ) This often can only be done in regions that receive at least 20 inches of rain annually. Dry farming methods are being explored by farmers as irrigation water availability becomes more difficult with climate change. On the Peninsula, traditional dry farming (when a crop is irrigated once or not at all) may be difficult for farms who receive low annual precipitation due to the rain shadow effect. That said, the various techniques used in dry farming could be beneficial to growers as a way to adapt to reoccurring drought conditions. For dry years, when irrigation water may not be available consistently (as many western WA growers experienced in 2015, 2021, 2023 and 2024), improving soil moisture retention could help reduce crop losses. Dry farming methods prioritize healthy soil management techniques to improve water-holding characteristics. Recently, resources have been published about dry farming in the PNW. To learn more about dry farming practices for growing organic vegetables, check out this OSU publication. <https://wsu.us19.list- manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=66e33e0228&e=bae7ffec58> WSU Clallam County extension has also gathered additional dry farming resources, upcoming workshops & more, for interested agricultural producers, which can be found here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=96dab464b5&e=bae7ffec58> . How Technical Assistance Can Impact Your Farm <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=31848044bc&e=bae7ffec58> By Clare Menard, Jess Sappington, and Kellie Henwood In addition to providing educational opportunities to farmers throughout our region, WSU Regional Small Farms offers technical assistance to farmers in Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap counties. But what is technical assistance? In the context of Extension, technical assistance refers to hands-on support and guidance provided to help individuals, communities, or organizations address specific challenges or develop new skills. It’s essentially a collaborative effort to enhance capacity and improve outcomes. WSU Regional Small Farms Program can help provide specialized knowledge and guidance, help solve problems, and connect with resources for your farm. Read more <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=414f831975&e=bae7ffec58> . Photo credit: WSU Regional Small Farms Program. Farmer Laura Llewellyn of Chimalow Produce looks at carrots with WSU Jefferson County Extension Director, Amit Sharma. 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=2ba978d441&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=2335cdcd0a&e=bae7ffec58> New! Processing of Acidified Foods – Jams, Jellies, Pickles, BBQ and Hot Sauces May 27th, 9am-4pm Port Angeles $30 Led by WSU Extension Food Processing Specialist, Girish Ganjyal, this essential training is designed for value-added producers to understand the food safety steps for producing and selling acidified food products, such as jams, jellies, pickles, BBQ sauces and hot sauces. Elevate your business by taking this training that allows for your products to be in more retail and online spaces! Agenda: * What is an Acid/Acidified Foods? * Microbiological hazards associated with acidified canned foods * Importance of pH and water activity * pH of common fruits and vegetables * Principles of processing of acidified foods * Applicable food safety regulations * Basic aspects of labeling * How to complete FDA process filings? The training is subsidized through WSDA-SCBG #12 (2022-2025) titled “Educational Tools for the Small and Very Small Value-Added Specialty Crop Growers and Food Processors”. If the registration cost is a barrier, please reach out to Kellie Henwood at kellie.henwood@wsu.edu. The cost covers all food provided for the day. Register Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=fb3482dba6&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f154ec92b1&e=bae7ffec58> WSU Regional Small Farms is bringing a new series of classes to Clallam, Jefferson and Kitsap counties this year. Living on the Land is for homesteaders, backyard growers, and anyone interested in connecting with their local food systems. Classes will take place online, where people can access them from the comfort of their home, and in-person, at local farms and homesteads for hands-on, interactive learning. Topics in 2025 will cover chicken and poultry care, raising small ruminants, seed saving, food preservation, and composting. Living on the Land classes will take place throughout the year and participants can attend one class or all. Online classes have unlimited registration. In-person class size is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Tickets are available to reserve approximately one month before the class. The classes are free and open to the public. The first class in the series is coming up on May 28th! New! Chicken Care for Beginners May 28th, 1-3pm Port Townsend (Jefferson County) This class will take place at Dutton Farm, where participants can see how chickens and ducks are integrated into their small farm system. We will be joined by farm owner Mickie Dutton and local heritage chicken breeder Lisa Van Horn, who has a vast amount of knowledge and experience when it comes to raising poultry. In this class participants will learn the basics of keeping chickens or other poultry and what they can do to keep their flock happy, healthy, and safe. This class is open to homesteaders, backyard growers, and people who are interested in building their skills. Address will be sent to registrants prior to the class. Check out the Living on the Land webpage <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=bc9736c5fd&e=bae7ffec58> for a full list of classes in 2025. Register Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=79be88aade&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=d9c64e3ba2&e=bae7ffec58> New! Harvesting Your Story: A Farm Branding Workshop May 28th, 5-7pm In-person at Finnriver Cidery, Chimacum Pre-register for the free event here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=bd0f15a8de&e=bae7ffec58> , or walk-ins welcome! Join WSU Regional Small Farms Program and North Olympic Development Council for an inspiring in-person session on values-driven brand development, led by Crystie Kisler (co-founder of Finnriver Farm and Cidery and Chimacum Valley Grainery). Crystie is a passionate advocate of small farming and local food businesses and has years of experience consulting with business owners, both small and large. This relaxed, community-style gathering is a chance to reflect on how your farm or food business expresses your brand values, and how you can share that story with the world through an in-class workshopping component. Ideas generated from the workshop will receive productive critique and guidance from Crystie and the group that participants can carry forward. Whether you're just beginning to shape your brand or looking to fine-tune your optics in the market, this session is designed to spark ideas, build connections, and keep it real. The cidery taproom will be open and selling refreshments, which will offer a chance to connect with fellow farmers and food producers over a shared refreshment during the program. All participants are invited to bring a picnic, notebook, and your authentic self. This class is for farmers and local food producers in Clallam and Jefferson Counties. Register Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=ff780c5c8f&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=0c200b076b&e=bae7ffec58> New! Dirt Talk Farm Walk: Agritourism – Value-Added Products & On-Farm Experiences June 4th, 1-3pm Free event, but pre-registration is required <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=541aa12feb&e=bae7ffec58> . WSU Regional Small Farms will be hosting a special series of educational Dirt Talk Farm Walks in 2025 throughout Kitsap County in conjunction with the Kitsap Agritourism Coalition farms. This group of dedicated farmers will be sharing their unique experiences and expertise around integrating agritourism as part of your farm business. Join WSU Regional Small Farms for our next Dirt Talk Farm Walk education experience at Bluetree Farm & Forest on Bainbridge Island! This is a unique opportunity for existing farmers to explore a thriving small-acreage lavender farm and learn about the innovative ways to enhance your farm’s appeal and profitability through agritourism. Event highlights: * Lavender Farm Tour: Enjoy a guided walk through their picturesque lavender and learn about the cultivation and care of this versatile plant. * Value-Added Products: Discover the range of lavender products the farm creates and sells and gain insights into how value-added products can boost your farm’s revenue. * On-Farm Opportunities: Learn about other various on-farm experiences this small farm offers, including their native food forest walk and popular farm-to-table dinners that showcase the farm’s own products. 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 (345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / jess.sappington@wsu.edu / 360- 228-7308 at least two weeks prior to the event. Language Interpretation Opportunity: WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program has acquired portable language interpretation equipment to increase more meaningful access to educational opportunities. We currently offer live Spanish interpretation when available. Persons who need Spanish translation services at our events, please contact your local Extension office at least two weeks in advance of the event. Contact Kellie Henwood, kellie.henwood@wsu.edu or call (360) 379-5610 ext. 201. Register Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=f1a33f6c53&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=49ba51eef9&e=bae7ffec58> In case you missed it.... Watch the recording of "Dirt Talk: Cucumber Beetles" on our Regional Small Farms YouTube channel! Regional farmers, Laurel Moulton, and the WSU Regional Small Farms Team presented and discussed cucumber beetles and the Integrated Pest Management strategies for managing them. Both striped and spotted cucumber beetles are difficult to manage and have become more frequent and impactful pests in crops such as squash, cucumbers, dahlias and others in Western Washington. Watch Recording Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e48972fce7&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=cc648f4af8&e=bae7ffec58> In case you missed it.... Watch the recording of "Dirt Talk: Integrated Pest Management for Garlic and Onions" on our Regional Small Farms YouTube channel! WSU Extension Vegetable Pathologist Dr. Lindsey DuToit joined Laurel Moulton and the WSU Regional Small Farms Team to present a webinar about allium diseases that are becoming more widespread in western Washington. She focused on identification and integrated pest management strategies for downy mildew, white rot, and end-of-season curing for management of bulb rots in garlic and onions. Watch Recording Here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=dd993fc3bf&e=bae7ffec58> COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSES New! Spring Workshops with Clallam Conservation District Free, but pre-registration is required <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=78213a7afe&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=5409372a21&e=bae7ffec58> New! Soil Testing for Farms Webinar May 19th, 7-7:30pm Take the guesswork out of fertilizing your pastures or hayfields by learning how to test your soil for nutrient deficiencies. Join planners from Clallam Conservation District for a brief webinar on the steps to collecting soil for testing and the impact different nutrients and amendments have on forage growth. <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=6b6eeee376&e=bae7ffec58> New! Weed Identification & Control on Farms May 20th, 1:00 to 2:30PM Learn how to identify and control poisonous and noxious weeds commonly found on farms. Reducing weed infestations will help boost the productivity of your pastures and hayfields and protect horses and livestock from poisonings. Feel free to bring fresh weeds from your farm for identification. Presenters include Clallam County Noxious Weeds Coordinator Christina St. John and Conservation District staff. <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9557c770ce&e=bae7ffec58> New! Pasture Management 101 May 21st, 10:00 to 11:30AM Are you ready to grow thriving and nutritious feed for your horses and livestock? Join Conservation District staff on a tour of the pastures at Robin Hill Farm Park to learn pasture management tools to increase yields, improve soil health, and learn how to grow a high-quality forage for your animals. RESOURCES Funding & Business New! Seattle Wholesale Growers Market Publication - Floral Standards, A Practical Guide for Harvesting and Delivering Professional Quality Products <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=8210356915&e=bae7ffec58> This comprehensive guide <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b359 8b&id=f225c5d6d8&e=bae7ffec58> for purchase provides detailed insights into the proper harvest stages and care techniques for processing cut flowers and foliage for wholesale floral sales. This reference book for specialty cut flower growers sets a high bar for quality and offers the granular detail necessary to produce and deliver a diverse array of floral products. Written by farmers for flower farmers, it contains a general section on best practices and product specification sheets for over 230 crops grown by Seattle Wholesale Growers Market (SWGM) Cooperative members. Information for each crop includes harvest stage, post-harvest care, stem counts, heights and bucket packs, expected vase life, recommended varieties for cutting, and shipping notes. Farmer Support and Information New! Soil Moisture Sensors for Clallam County Farms <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=e729649dd1&e=bae7ffec58> WSU Clallam County Extension in partnership with the Clallam County Conservation District, are installing Irrometer WATERMARK soil moisture sensors <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360 ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=443f169080&e=bae7ffec58> on farms this season. These granular matrix sensors report how much water is available to plant root systems at varying depths in the soil, indicating if over (or under) watering has occurred. Clallam County farmers interested in these sensors, contact samantha.grieger@wsu.edu <mailto:samantha.grieger@wsu.edu> to learn more! New! Water Conservation Resources for Farmers <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9bf8384748&e=bae7ffec58> For growers interested in reducing water use, improving soil moisture retention, or in need of irrigation advice: check out WSU Clallam County Extension’s updated water conservation website. <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=05317f07c6& e=bae7ffec58> As irrigation season kicks off, farmers can refer to here <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=62f6db5477&e=bae7ffec58> for resources regarding irrigation systems, water saving production methods and updates on drought forecasts throughout the Peninsula. New! Scholarship Opportunity to attend Compost Facility Operator Training, WSU Puyallup <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=509d9c7fc6&e=bae7ffec58> Training is held in person from October 13th - 17th in Puyallup The training is four full days at the Washington State University Puyallup Research and Extension Center and one day touring commercial compost facilities. The current curriculum consists of classroom training, hands-on interactive sessions, field trips, and a written examination. Topics covered include: * Compost Use in Agriculture and Horticulture * Biology of the Compost Pile * Feedstock Management * Regulations * Odor Control and Response * Sampling and Testing * Compost Quality * Compost Facility Operations This scholarship provides an opportunity to help minimize the cost of attending CFOT for people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend, including post-graduate students, non-profit composters, and emerging industry professionals. This enriches our collective training experience and the Washington composting community by welcoming people with diverse backgrounds who deserve to contribute to our shared mission, regardless of cost. Apply for Scholarship <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=85c8c5eb75&e=bae7ffec58> Food Safety New! See upcoming training in listing above on value-added acidified foods training May 27th in Port Angeles! 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=b9b2d528e3&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 No job postings at this time. 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 Kellie Henwood, Jess Sappington, Clea Rome, Amit Sharma, Laurel Moulton, Clare Menard, Sallie Constant, Sammi Grieger 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=823f04c4eb&e=bae7ffec58> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=879581dafc&e=bae7ffec58> <mailto:kellie.henwood@wsu.edu> <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=cd72b853f1&e=bae7ffec58> Copyright © 2025 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=1ed1de32a3> unsubscribe from this list <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/unsub scribe?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d&t=b&e=bae7ffec58&c=1ed1de32a3> update subscription preferences <https://wsu.us19.list-manage.com/profile?u=360ae1ff3a734621548b3598b&id=9e764ecf8d &e=bae7ffec58&c=1ed1de32a3> 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=1ed1de32a3&e=bae7ffec58>