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NEWS

Limericks eliven groundbreaking

Big Y to launch “parking-lot” farmers markets this summer

Locally owned Local Hero food retailer Big Y is organizing a series of farmers markets at parking lots of store locations throughout the Pioneer Valley starting in July.

According to Joe Budny, produce category manager at Big Y, the markets will serve to highlight the company’s commitment to supporting local farmers. At the same time, the markets will give customers a chance to learn more about local produce and the people who grow it.

“Especially in the Valley, people appreciate the story of where their food comes from,” says Budny. “We want our customers to know that when they buy local produce at Big Y, they support area farmers.”

CISA staff will be on-hand at several farmers market events at Big Y’s Local Hero stores to meet the public—and spread word about the virtues and delights of eating locally grown. Dates and locations of Big Y farmers markets will be posted in upcoming newsletters and on CISA’s website.

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Acting Ag Commissioner addresses CISA’s board

Governor Deval Patrick’s administration plans to increase spending for programming that promotes local agriculture, said Acting Agriculture Commissioner Scott Soares when he spoke to CISA’s board and Local Hero members on May 15.

“The Governor recognizes agriculture as an economic driver,” said Soares. He outlined the administration’s top priorities, which include encouraging farmers to boost their bottom lines by boosting switching to more energy efficient practices, reversing trends in the loss of agricultural lands, and bolstering programs that will bring down the median age of farmers.

In response to a question about the issue food safety, Soares reassured the group that agricultural products in the Commonwealth are very safe. “The smaller scale of production allows for greater attention to detail,” he said.

Local Hero farm joins the 'E-Revolution'

In increasing numbers, farmers are turning to the Internet to market their businesses. To see a beautiful example, check out the new website of Sangha Farm, a small family farm in Ashfield, MA that grows culinary herbs and produce.

With vivid graphics, alluring photography and a rich palette of earthy colors, the website leads viewers through a pleasing sensory experience that hints at what it must be like to wake up on a quiet morning on the farm—or even taste the deliciously fresh vegetables grown there.

Springfield Farmers Market Seeks Vendors

The Farmers Market at Tower Park in Springfield is currently accepting vendors for the 2007 season! The market is Fridays 10am-3pm, June through September. Conveniently located at the corner of Main and Bridge Streets in downtown Springfield, the market is free for vendors, offers live music at lunchtime, and is a member of the MDAR WIC coupon program. Contact the market manager at (413) 733-2171, ext 107 for more information.

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Dairy farm report shows financial challenges in 2006

First Pioneer Farm Credit, the largest lender to agriculture in the Northeast, released information May 30 indicating that dairy farmers in 2006 had one of their worst financial periods in at least 28 years.

The report, entitled the Dairy Farm Summary, shows that net earnings per cow for dairy farms participating in Farm Credit’s Dairy Summary declined from $339 per cow in 2005 to a negative $64 per cow in 2006. Cash flow on the dairy farms was inadequate to meet financial commitments including operating expenses, debt repayment, family living, and income taxes. As a result of the financial stress, farmers cut back on expenditures wherever possible, including funds used for family living expenses and capital purchases, and borrowed additional funds to continue in business. Many farms had losses many times greater than the negative $64 per cow.

William Lipinski, President and CEO of First Pioneer Farm Credit commented, “The Dairy Farm Summary confirms that 2006 was an extremely difficult year for dairy farm businesses because of depressed milk prices and increases in feed and energy costs. While dairy farmers cut expenses and increased efficiency wherever possible, it was not enough to offset the reduction in milk prices.”

Farm milk prices have become increasingly cyclical. In 2006, prices declined to levels below the average cost of production. Lipinski further commented, “We have many outstanding dairy farmers in the Northeast who did an excellent job last year to adjust to low prices, but with higher feed and energy costs, many farms lost thousands of dollars in 2006.” Lipinski concluded, “First Pioneer continues to be committed to the future of Northeast dairy farming. The year 2006 was very challenging but we are optimistic that dairy farming will remain a strong industry here in the Northeast.”

For further highlights on the 2006 Northeast Dairy Farm Summary, or to purchase a copy, interested parties can check www.firstpioneer.com.

Interested in going organic?

Food marketing experts identify organic practices as the new norm, not the exception, for high quality, artisanal farm and food products. Explore going organic at the Organic Trade Association’s recently unveiled website that helps both farmers and food processors transition from traditional farming methods to organic. The site covers everything from basic organic requirements to handling and record keeping.

http://www.howtogoorganic.com

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Not too early to plan for winter

In her May 2007 Mother Jones article Seeing Red: Eating Locally and Debunking the Red-Blue Devide, writer and activist locavore Barabara Kingsolver offers some humorous guidance to those of us who would like to eat locally even through long white winters.

Here’s a piece of her sage advice:

“Canning is not just for farmers and gardeners, either. Putting up summer produce is a useful option for anyone who can buy local produce from markets. It is also a kindness to the farmers who will have to support their families in December on whatever they sell in August. They can't put their unsold tomatoes in the bank. Buying now, in quantity, improves the odds of these farmers returning with more next summer.”

Full article.

Martin’s Farm Compost approved for organic farms and gardens

Local Hero member Bob Martin announces that his compost has been approved by Baystate Organic Certifiers for use on organic farms and gardens.

Martin’s Premium compost is a blend of approximately 50% manure, 50% leaves. They also will offer a ‘humified’ compost ready in April, made from a wide variety of organic materials. “We use only local, compostable materials in our products,” says Bob. “Many farmers and gardeners in the area report great success with our products. We hold our compost piles at around 150 degress for several weeks to destroy all weed seeds and other pathogens.”

Pickup at the farm or delivery is available. Call Bob at 774-5631 for more info or visit their web site, www.martinsfarmrecycling.com.

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Workshops, Events, Announcements

Local Hero winery hosts season opener June 2 & 3

Chester Hill Winery, in Chester, MA will celebrate the season with an even that’s free to the public, offering music, wine tasting and finger food.
For more information go to www.blueberrywine.com

National Hunger Awareness Day 2007
This June 1st through 6th, The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and its local partners will host four community events to recognize National Hunger Awareness Day and the many faces of hunger in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden Counties. Learn more about these events at their web site.

Hunger is preventable. Join The Food Bank community in our work to create a hunger-free nation. To learn how you can participate, please contact Jo Comerford, joc@foodbankwma.org 413.247.0312 x 118.

Seeds of Solidarity Visiting Day

Seeds of Solidarity Farm and Education Center in Orange MA offers a free tour on Saturday, June 9th at 10am. Founders and farmers Ricky Baruc and Deb Habib provide an engaging tour of solar greenhouses, energy efficient buildings, abundant market gardens, solar electric and hot water systems, and biodiesel fueled vehicles, plus information about their programs that teach North Quabbin youth to “grow food everywhere.” An optional potluck lunch follows the two-hour tour on this “Solidarity Saturday.” The event is geared towards adults, but families are welcome.
Seeds of Solidarity is located at 165 Chestnut Hill Road, Orange, MA
For directions go to www.seedsofsolidarity.org.
For more information contact: Deb Habib, deb@seedsofsolidarity.org, (978) 544-9023.

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Daylily Sale Open House

At Local Hero member Glenbrook Gardens

Many Colors & Sizes!
June 16, 2007 and August 18, 2007

Dayliliy Festival July 14, 2007, 9 AM to 4 PM

Located off Leyden Rd. in Greenfield, MA
Info: Richard Willard ~ 413-772-6997

Catamount Farmers Market Offers Free Gardening Workshops
The following workshops will take place at the Catamount Farmers Market in East Charlemont at 10am. They are free and open to the public. No registration required.

June 2
Organic Gardening. It can be easier than you think. What it takes to have a successful organic garden.

June 9
Companion Planting in your gardens. An explanation of what companion planting is and how it can benefit your garden.

June 16
Composting. Proper composting techniques for various situations.

June 23
Conquering garden pests naturally. How to make and use organic pesticide and other bug and animal deterrents.

June 30
Edible Flowers. How to plant yourself a flower garden that the kids can nibble on safely.

Red Fire Farm is looking for your farm product to sell at the farm stand

The stand located in a 1922 barn sells it's organic vegetables, local grocery items and non food items. Everything from El Jardin bread to Songline Emu oil. Especially needed are jams and jellies. Send a letter with your product information and prices to Red Fire Farm, 7 Carver Street, Granby, MA 01033...attention Deb. Be sure to visit the web site to see the farm stand: www.redfirefarm.com.

Massachusetts Nursery Landscape Association and Massachusetts Flower Growers Association Fourth Annual Collaborative Event
Join Massachusetts' largest green industry associations for the 2007 Summer Meeting and Trade Show on Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at the Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Boylston, MA. To register go to www.mnla.com or call 413-369-4731.

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Free Gardening Demonstrations at Nasami Farm and Sanctuary
New England Wild Flower Society proudly presents a free demonstrations at Nasami Farm & Sanctuary, on Sundays at 1 pm. Garden experts share their knowledge and lead short hands-on demonstrations, and will help with customized nursery selections. No reservations required. Programs and parking are free. 413-397-9922 For a list of program topics and directions go to www.newenglandWILD.org,

A Celebration Of Sustainable Living
Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) Annual Summer Fair
August 10-12, 2007

Join NOFA for over 200 workshops, incredible keynote speakers, a fun Saturday afternoon fair, numerous exhibitors and vendors and great organic food at Hampshire College, Amherst, MA on August 10-12.

This is an excellent opportunity to learn all about organic agriculture, natural landscaping, organic gardening, homesteading, animal care, sustainable living, holistic healing and so much more. Separate conferences for children and teens. To receive a Registration Form contact Julie Rawson at (978) 355-2853 or julie@nofamass.org. Online registration available and complete schedle and info: www.nofamass.org.

NOFA is Still Seeking Exhibitors! If interested, contact Katie Campbell-Nelson at (413) 337-4327 or katiecampbellnelson@gmail.com. Fun-makers: lend your ideas or talents to the fun Saturday afternoon Fair: still seeking jugglers, musicians, gymnasts, dog-tricksters, game-makers, etc.
The Music Stage is open to those with a desire to play – if you want a venue, you’ve got it. For the above, contact Tricia Cooper at: (617) 558-3322 or triciacoop@hotmail.com.

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CLASSIFIED

Real Pickles is hiring help for production work for the coming season. For more information, go to www.realpickles.com or contact Dan Rosenberg, Owner 413-863-9063, dan@realpickles.com.

Hilltown CDC Rehabilitation program is seeking a Housing Rehab Program Manager, a full time position with benefits. For a full description and instructions on how to apply go to www.hilltowncdc.org. Send letter, resume and 3 references by June 13, 2007 to: Paul Lischetti, Housing Director, Hilltown CDC, P.O. Box 17, Chesterfield, MA 01012 or paull@hilltowncdc.org.

The Holyoke Food & Fitness Policy Council is hiring a fulltime coordinator. To learn more about the position go to, website at the following link: http://www.nuestras-raices.org/job_posting.htm. The application deadline is June 15.

Atlas Farm, a certified organic vegetable farm in Deerfield, MA seeks folks interested in being part of a morning weeding crew for the 2007 season. This is part-time flexible work- 10-15 hours per week during June, July & August. Gain some experience on an organic farm and enjoy the meditative work of weeding! If interested, please contact Sara at 413-230-4833.

Looking for a part-time farm laborer this summer? Contact Courtney Hall, 413-642-0681 or sawnfreckles@hotmail.com.

Saw Mill Site Farm is looking for a part-time (15 to 20 hours per month) person who is enthusiastic about horseradish. They are seeking a flexible self-starter to help with various tasks, including: help with Farmers' Markets; store demo's, outreach to stores outside of Boston. If interested, please contact Terry at sawmillsitefarm@comcast.net or 413-665-3005.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, RSVP, of Franklin and Hampshire Counties is looking for a volunteer to help at Buckland/Shelburne Elementary School in Shelburne Falls. The volunteer would function as a Volunteer Coordinator. Responsibilities include working with local education council to organize times and positions of volunteers working within the school. The position will be during the school year, and it can be done from the school or from the volunteer’s home, or a combination of both. If you are interested in this opportunity or in volunteering in the school itself, please contact the RSVP Volunteer Coordinator; Kelly Donahoe at 413.584.1300x183 or kdonahoe@uwshc.org.

Pasture available in North Amherst: Approximately 5 acres of pasture available (has been idle for 4 years) with access to brook. Needs new fencing. Willing to trade rent for fence installation. (sheep? goats? cows?) All considered. Joe or Sarah (413) 230-3137

Land/homestead wanted to buy: Looking to purchase that perfect little farm/homestead. A fixer-upper farmhouse with 2-10 acres (at least 2 open tillable) within 1 hour of Northampton. Please call Rachel at 413-268-7548.

Wanted: Used small farm/market garden tools, equipment, and supplies. Please call Rachel at 413-268-7548.

Ongoing classes on organic cooking. Visit http://members.aol.com/lescerier/pages/classes.html to learn more.

Farm for Sale: 20 acres of prime farmland along the CT River. Quiet country setting yet just 10 minutes from I-91. Hay fields, crop fields, woven wire & electric fenced-in pastures for rotated grazing. No commercial fertilizers used on the land. Barn w/new additions, outbuildings, portable sheds, retail shop. 1800+ feet of road frontage. Large, classic New England Colonial Farmhouse with wrap-around porch and large front & back yards. Many renovations since 2001. Lots of potential -- perfect setting for bed & breakfast; campground; retreat; stables/horse boarding or your own dream farm. Located in West Northfield, MA -- Chee Chee Mamook Farm. Contact us at alpaca0410@yahoo.com to be directed to online photos & more information.

For Sale: Tractor items.
A/C Pick Up Plow - one furrow - 2 way. Will fit Allis-Chalmers Model "B" & "C" tractors.
Also A/C Tractor Mowing Attachment (side bar mower).
Fits both "B" & "C" models. Complete with manuals. Both is good condition.
For further information contact
Terry Grinnan, prop
Saw Mill Site Farm Horseradish Products
287 Conway Road
So. Deerfield, MA 01373
p 413-665-3005
sawmillsitefarm@comcast.net
www.horseradishdirect.com.

Used books & ephemera relating to AGRICULTURE (also many other subjects including architecture, woodworking and regional history) are available for sale at:

Nancy L. Dole Books & Ephemera
32 Bridge St. 2nd floor
SHELBURNE FALLS, MA 01370
open everyday but Monday
(413) 625-9850
ndole@crocker.com

Farmland wanted. 10 acres+ sought by farmer interested in raising sheep. Prefers the Colrain, Shelburne, Buckland area. Contact Ginger Wall, Gmwall42@aol.com.

Land for rent. 15 organic acres in Buckland close to Shelburne Falls. Large barn available. Owner will help skilled operator with start up expenses. Water available. Very low rent/barter possible. Call Michael 413 625-8300.

Got Wood? If you have over 20 acres of forest land and would like to discuss your management options with a licensed forester, please call Shane at Cowls: 413-549-1403.

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Editor: Rebecca Pollard Pierik
Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture
1 Sugarloaf Street, South Deerfield MA 01373
Tel: 413-665-7100  Fax: 413-665-7101
http://www.buylocalfood.com