October 16, 2012
News from the States:
Indiana: Drought Provides Opportunities to Improve Soil Health by Joe Kelsay
This year's historical drought has provided a prime opportunity for a special focus on a most precious resource, our soil. Though we tend to think first of the extreme weather's effect on our 2012 crop yields, its impact on feed supplies and the health of our fields could easily extend the damage into next season and well beyond. ISDA encourages our farmers to minimize this impact by spending some time this fall considering their opportunities to improve soil health.
One way to address soil health and make the most of these conditions is through the establishment of cover crops like oats, clover, rye grasses, and/or radishes. These can provide emergency forage, reduce soil loss, scavenge precious nutrients, improve water quality, offer wildlife habitat and rehabilitate pastures, all while developing soil health at the same time.
Much time will be invested in the recovery from this year's drought, and we will find solutions to minimize the challenges of 2012, with a deliberate focus on improving our soil. Many different avenues can offer help, arming producers with the essential tools they need to get to the best position for the future. What is most exciting is that Indiana has proven over and over again that by focusing on our strengths and constantly innovating, especially in difficult times, we continue to propel Indiana Agriculture forward. For more information, click here.
Oklahoma: Agritourism Bus Rolls through Central Oklahoma
Don't miss the bus! The Oklahoma Agritourism Program will roll through central Oklahoma Thursday, Nov. 8. Registration is open for this traveling workshop which includes networking opportunities between tours of agritourism attractions. Participants on the chartered bus will have time to stimulate new ideas and get to know other entrepreneurs who may become future business partners.
Agritourism is defined as inviting the public onto a working farm or ranch to purchase products, learn, have fun, participate in farm activities or just relax. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry and the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department develop and promote the agritourism industry in Oklahoma to stimulate economic growth and viability in rural communities. These businesses attract domestic and international tourists by offering high-quality agricultural attractions and destinations.
The bus tour will feature The Harn Homestead, Frontier Farms, Sugar Moon, Clauren Ridge Vineyards & Winery, and Cripple Creek Farms. This lineup will give participants access to ideas from various farms and a winery. For more information, click here.
Oregon: Ag a Key Part of Governor's Trade Mission
Once again, Oregon agriculture will be part of the center stage as Governor Kitzhaber leads a delegation on a three-stop Asian trade mission this month. Starting in Shanghai, China, continuing in Hong Kong, and ending in Tokyo, Japan, the 11-day mission includes the director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture as well as representatives of the state's dairy and potato industries. With growing economies in Asia and Oregon's long-standing trade relationship with the region, excellent export opportunities await the members of the delegation.
"I'm always excited to go on these missions," says ODA Director Katy Coba. "These markets are very important for Oregon agriculture. We have a governor who is interested in supporting the industry. He's spending time with our delegation and the partners we need overseas to advance our exports. There are great opportunities in Asia for Oregon agriculture."
While the governor tends other Oregon economic interests as well, he will plug in to many of the agricultural activities during the mission. Meanwhile, the agricultural delegation will target specific opportunities to help producers back home. A growing Asian economy and increased demand for the kinds of products Oregon can provide makes this an important trip. For more information, click here.
South Carolina: Upcoming Workshops Offered for Farmers Interested in Transitioning to Organic Farming
Farmers interested in learning about transitioning to organic farming can plan to attend one of two workshops offered in November. The Organic Transition for Produce Farmers workshops are scheduled for Nov. 8 in Charleston and Nov. 29 in Columbia.
These one-day workshops run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature local experts on organic farming. They will discuss the organic certification process and requirements, provide practical tips for farm planning and record keeping, and other topics related to organic farming. For more information, click here.
Wisconsin: Sending Christmas Trees Overseas? Get the Paperwork Ball Rolling Now