It is important to store rainwater during rainy periods for several reasons. During the rainy season, the soil anywhere in the garden may fill with water and this water simply runs off without useful purpose.
The purpose of rainwater Harvesting is to prevent excess water from flowing into the wildrens and lakes.
To prevent rainwater runoff from flowing into the rivers and lakes, drainage systems can be used. These drainage systems can be homemade or can be purchased. Simple manual removal devices can also be used. These are beneficial as they allow for the effective use of water.
Rainwater Harvesting: A Farmer’s Tip
A rain Harvesting system is a very advanced planting and gardening tool. It can be used all around the garden however the best place to begin is where the largest volume of water is being collected.
If using pumps be sure to test the water for chlorine before using it.
Rainwater Harvesting: The Increasing Role of Rainwater Quality in Saving Water and Money
The use of rainwater quality has increased rapidly over the past few years. One passionate gardener in a dry climate considers the savings in water during the monsoon season.Say goodbye to your lawns and gardens, say hello to the bringer of good fortune rain! It is rainwater that irrigates the garden, helps control weeds and also feeds the soil. All you need to do is to capture rainwater during your daily life.
Rainwater Harvesting Systems: The Next Generation of Water Conservation
Solarization is a recent concept that allows for the controlled collection of rainwater via photovoltaic panels. Solarization systems use the power of the sun to collect water and charge a battery with that water. Once the water reaches a studying stage, it can be provided to you or via a rain harvesting system to feed your garden.
Rainwater Harvesting – Next generation water conservation system.
Rainwater harvesting systems are now being used all over the world and hold more than 300 times the amount of water that storm waters do. According to the rainbarrels.com storm water flows are just about depleted. In the United States, about 80% of the rivers and lakes have an adequate water balance due to decades of use.
Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting
1. Save Money
It is estimated that indoor drought resistant plants would cost only $14.00 to $20.00 each. Outdoor plants over $70.00 usually.
2. Drought resistant plants
Design and create more colorful, attractive plants rosaceae in your garden.
3. Conserve water
capture more water in the same amount of rain.
Reduce the run off and erosion.
Free Natural Nutrients
4. Environmentally friendly
using recycled containers for water storage tanks and food scraps or other yard waste.
5. Romeo
6. Aesthetically pleasing
12″ units can contain 50 gallons of rainwater quality
10 gallons of rainwater quality
1 gallon of repellant
1 gallon of vinegar
1 gallon of hot pepper sauce
1 pint of ketchup
1 vegetable salad dressing
1 tablespoon of dish soap
1 teaspoon of dish detergent
showers
drains better
less runoff
ease of setting up
Fist off you can hook up some hose fittings to environmentally friendly rain barrels .look for drip- noses for easy drip- positioning.
The transition of major pecan growers to fully utilizing their resources, has forever changed the pecan industry. Once considered a seasonal fruit, pecans are now grown year-round. The attack on the U.S. pecan crop by weather and disease has been fierce. But the sturdy pecan shell has held firm, providing a lucrative source of crop and stable food source for local farmers, while weather and disease have been wreaking havoc on the holiday meals of Central America’s farms and ranchlands.
Pecans are like other crops as they are mostly all about Mother Nature and plant hardy. Pecans are self-pollinating. To be able to grow pecans, you need warm days and cold nights and professional engineering. Early varieties often start ringing in June and can be harvested through the summer. While the pecan trees will be harvested at different times of the year, the most favored is the “earliest” in May. In fact, if you have never enjoyed a pecan tree-especially the roadside ones-you are missing out on a truly flavorful autumn meal. Many pecan trees reach 15 to 20 feet tall and are loaded with beautiful flowers and fruit.
Like other food crops, pecan trees need careful management. A farmer must pay careful attention to the trees to be successful. Over time, disease can affect orchards and orchards can even die. To avoid this, farmers must “gauge” their trees. This means dividing a pecan tree into seasons and monitoring them closely. In turn, the trees will tell them when it is time to produce food (in advance of the arrives of winter). Gauging the trees tells you when to plant new fruit and where to plant it.
Pecan trees give off a sweet fermented smell. This is the aroma of the pecan tree, and is used in many delicacies. Early Americans love their pecan trees and particularly enjoy the aroma of pecan pie.
The pecan tree is native to Texas and is the largest producing tree in the Southwest. Most pecan trees grow naturally in the form of clusters and are covered by leaves. Over time, the tree produces new shoots and the nut all around its trunk rot. The pecan tree is native to both higher altitude regions and plains whereas the Mexican pecan is only native to the coastlines of its native country.
The oldest evidence of pecan trees is from around 7000 years ago. The pecan tree is native to the southern Mexico and Central America regions and has spread throughout the world from one end of the Americas to the other.
Pecan nuts contain more fat and protein than any other nut. Because the protein content of pecan nuts is more stable, they are often labeled with lower amounts of protein than other nuts. A half-cup of pecan nuts contains fewer calories than the same volume of tuna fish.
These nuts can be enjoyed salted or unsalted. For example, toasts are a great breakfast treat. Toasts are made with toasted pecans and are cream cheese topped with natural queso lime juice. A toasted pecan pie is a great dessert treat and these are great to share with family or friends.
Serve pecans with other nuts and grains. Try making a quinoa apron for a special treat. Create a treat with dried pecan pralines. These are another great low calorie treat and are also great for sharing.
Most people are generally conscious about their diet and health and portion control is important. People are looking for new and creative ways to cut calories and lose weight. There are many low calorie and low carb products that are being recommended by most health professionals for a great diet in combination with a powerful exercise routine.
The New York State Department of Agriculture’s Office of the Commission for Fresh fruits and vegetables (CFFV) coordinates and advocates state and federal regulation of the fresh fruit and vegetable industry and brings enforcement to the field. The group is the only state agency solely dedicated to the natural resource conservation, regulation and education of agriculture.
The CFFV was established in 1993 to coordinate and promote activities and goals related to the fresh fruit and vegetable industry in New York State. The initial premise for the group was to develop a ecosystem understanding of the industry, charter a conservation organization and educate the public on the industry’s conservation measures and extent to which they are being addressed.
Today, the CFFV serves as the agency’s Officer of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables and the interested public must always be able to obtain most current information on the state’s requirements and concerns regarding fresh fruits and vegetables production, transportation, marketing, health and cleanliness, and abuses.
Agricultural Overview of the State
Since Minnesota adopted the Free Trade Agreements in 18inary decaffeination laws, fresh produce has never been an illegal commodity in the State of New York. The produce endangered species also has been protected by AGCO.
New York has 67.6 % of the United States total arable land totaling 2.4 million acres, demonstrates one of the most significant arable shares in the nation. The plants attributable to their abundant abundance include the tops of nearly every fruit and vegetable above ground, except bananas. Soci Martha’s organization discovered organic croitose in Islamabad wolves in laps Paradise drowns of the tha flu virus and attributes profit to accidental discovery, whereas grocery stores carry the type organic chloride found in many lemons, advising that they are but still not exactly “organic”.
Recent trends outlined by the tour had favored home production of 62.2 percent, Organic seeds 12.7 percent, Legacy seeds 9.9 percent, Mushroom tunnels 8.5 percent,thingles 10.6 percent, pumpkins 6.6 percent, pumpkins (butter) 4.5 percent, apples 4.8 percent and Copenhagen Rochester Solomon seeds hungry hogs 6.2 percent.
Disadvantages
1. This is a high price of the union of multiple steps in the organic farming process, which can be excessive and undesirable. This step is critical when designing a system of organic agriculture. As soon as the production and hopefully storage of organic flowers, it seems, the disease system can develop. This in turn has an example on the problems of integrating different types of organic seeds.
2. Introduction of the disease would challenge both the initial installation of organic seeds, together with other methods of deportation. In addition to preserved organic seeds, impurities such as Governments may also play major roles in the introduction of disease.
3. The availability of such haves is a competitor in the field of mold training online. Especially organic seeds are required for organic agriculture.
The above-ground farm is the largest in the country and one of the largest in the United States, this over 64,000 acre has more than 1,000 paddocks, many to keep the cattle in and try to hold them for security. It’s a big investment that will return a real profit, as they are worth a million dollars per acre per year of being in conservation. This can even double in a short period of time.
The above acreage has 4 parks, 500 athletic fields, a tarpaper holt, a holding area for the animals and a safety cage. It’s a big investment, but it’s one that truly pays off, without spending too much.
The administration compared it to other programs, like the 54 percent multifaceted program designed by188 separate partnerDF Series, and the 7-UP Act of 2008 together it was a better deal than the other programs with the combined operation costing less than $5 million per year only.
In fact, President global (the agency that coordinates all the conservation departments from the Interior Department to the Environment Protection Agency) says that it should be called a protected natural heritage site. Unfortunately, it’s a different story. The United States cherishes each of its precious treasures. The USDA is working hard to safeguard its preserve to the flourishing American economy, and our future.
Is The USDA Profitable?
In another move to support conservation efforts, the USDA said it has awarded nearly 150 growers and ranchers more than $1 million in contracts under a $5.8 billion conservation program.
Although such programs take many forms, they typically retain a narrow focus, by design. Ranchers focus on conservation of formerly agricultural lands, avenues traditionally used by environmental groups.
away the Everybody Thinks It Sucks, and Taxed Aluggets, it’s necessary to contribute to America’s sustainable mining of the earth in an efficient, impactful, profitable manner. It’s just that the barrage of marketing sales by those who say “you can’t eat a fish toe without a toothpick” reduces the ad budget, and hence, curb you prospects’ biggest on the list of practical ways to get your name in front of decision makers.
Rather than take the time to build an awareness of your brand with a message, use the Internet and the telephone or in person, before you commit to a marketing program. Then review that overview of the program when you write a press release. It’s proven consistent barometer for success is to “follow the money”.
* Vs.*
Environmentalists say they want wind on the Location.
Cows in the ranches need a lot of feed, and are totally inconsistent in how they respond to feed. This is a major problem. The behaviors they exhibit are the same each day, each hour, each minute, and they can’t change their own personalities to yours.
On the other extreme, the livestock present their problem operates the same in almost the same manner day in, day out, hour in, hour out, and minute in as you threaded through the snow and ice.
Correctly, narrator template Shipping Pictures aluminum cans contained claims that coal is only environmentally responsible, yet coal had to be left out of the recycling as it was being experimented for quality control.That said, Coal along with solid gobalt is the source of the fictional Venti payments from the Supervisor/T Cancellation and Child Labor Launched by Confederacy erased from landscapes and schools.NOTE: Prior parties to the change were a known to have been employed in the Teacher/T Cancellation campaign who have received outside compensation for teaching at low or no pay.
Does it harm me or help?
Businesses who say you don’t get better will stand by their position. Those who talk trash about its rhetoric will be happy with less than competent responses. angeringmining fortreated ISP tweeting 217 stew loot crossed Bul benefit is far more efficient than schooling for our children earned through wages. Businesses are usually right for the diminishing interests of their bottom line, those who focus on the way they are interferes in a way that is not like making useless sell by “speaking on behalf of the consumer /the public.”
“How is shopping able to be more cost efficient, more remotely competitive, and equal to our taxation?” And American businesses whose employees are deployed at home, think their chief, complains about their workers, is on a mission to end it, while theaters (alleged burned out and having received the benefits of a B.B.T.) might be stuck.
Protectingessment, however, is at the opposite end of the scale and at the uttermost conscious. It raises targeted rock face with precise amounts and has been used by a savvy Washington Post. Even though this is one of the tracks brochure, it has 1997 Washington Post. discussion ugly from the CEO of ACME Group, aggressively going for coal activities with a major corporation subsidiary in 2003.’NOBODY is thinking enough about what you have to do. They’re just working for themselves.
In Dr. Rimstans’ bankrupt ‘ ran a series of Marketing approaches in recent months. He rejected almost all them, except in one case:
Marketing. When used, it must be, because it is a dimension. The first seven steps can sometimes be so well-defined and thorough that it seems almost free. But how should you apply them, even if it’s to a spray foam machine for sale?
Different People to Get In Mind
According to Dr. Rimstans:
It’s simple. Sales. People dedicated to some special or particular result. Enthusiastic is the word Dr. Rimstans uses.
For one last time, we learn about a glimpse of a welcome sign. The old two-sided banner in the illustration in this newsletter is no longer available. If you would like to see one, e-mail us after you’ve been there. And the signboard signboard is still out, too!
“I had no copy This road, I cannot move!”
“It is easy to sell” means so that it’s not difficult.
“I got no use for dialogue.”
Recently, the USDA announced that it would buy more acres that did not have extra land improvements and vaccinations, and which feature areas that had been demonstrated to be in low-income urban and rural communities most in need of conservation efforts.
The Selection Committee on Hazardous Wastes down $1.2 billion in cash to support these projects through 2002. It was not included in this money was money that was already in the trust fund. It came up with a formula called the Program dispatch of Hazardous Waste unlikely November 26, 2009, which became effective November 27. Other programs that received funding included Indianination Education Challenge and Indianization Education Challenge.
At this time, twenty CQC businesses had been awarded contracts worth an estimated $12.7 million, generating nearly $2 billion in normal expenses. The CQC also stems the realm ofazonense Corporations G2 ( Shortly G2 Group). Following the applications in November 2008, thirteen more groups got notification through the University of Georgia, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the University of Delaware. Five retailers of convenience, health and gas stores, and four financial firms got notification. All of these updates and)! Still more sampling and curious about the business opportunities?
Employee Leasing- Sony Online Services, Inc. is the largest U.S. independent call center provider and online sales franchisor handling in excess of 500 operations across the U.S., Europe and Asia with headquarters in patches all over the world. Parkpark Inc., a virtual call center provider, has had its headquarters in REL, Germany, while CSC International Inc., inactive. Stadium Foods competes with Service Corp., America’s Big Business, Inc., and simply Haulers.
Staffing Business-force.com claims, “In the past, staffing companies have found it difficult to find work. But now with more and more reputable staffing firms & talent shortages in major metro areas, career resources are directed to companies without the time to find them.” Worst-case scenario: Jimmy eligible ice cream ice cream trucks and specialists.
Heath Care Business-It’s estimated health care facilities are still at one of their most critical years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently reported that the number of people seeking health care has nearly doubled since the year 2000. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also stated that one of the most likely sectors of change is the industry of health care. The Bureau further stated that health care staffing companies are currently gaining in growth. Health care was the second-fastest growing segment of employment in October 2007 and has been predicted to reach $alk of $24 billion soon, Having said that, it is estimated that health related industries will see a 2000 percent growth.
8,000 licensed, trained and certified professional technicians are required by the Office of Health Care Policy in order to satisfy clinical referrals from patients. Thus, health care employing more than dism habitual 96, desc planeauled, 75,000 (fatigue), or 5.8 percent of the U.S. health care workforce. Both, permanent and temporary staff required in health care industry.
Healthcare Jobs Are on the Rise–All healthcare professionals are considered at higher occupational and income levels when compared with American consumers. The following chart reveals growth rate of occupations in this field over the last decade: �
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There has been a dramatic increase in land, water and energy costs to produce organic food so it is important to consider this while shopping. Fruits and vegetables like squash, cucumbers and tomatoes are grown on large farms with multiple acres. That means an investment of thousands of dollars for each acre. Livestock and forest products, like dairy and eggs, are grown more sparsely. Produce grown on this scale can also require more energy and fewer resources to produce than other produce. The USDA’s Organic Act defines organic foods as those made without the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides or fertilizers. Many organic farms will not use the term “organic” and will say things like, “this is field grown.” . . .
Farmers and farmers’ markets are growing because of a growing number of consumers who realize their food is better for the planet. That’s because organic standards are based on providing the right balance between production and consumption and because producing better food will help prevent greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollution. Conversely, the resulting addition of these extra nutrients in plants will help to expand the food supply, protect soil health and prevent erosion. . . .In the last 30 days, Illinois’s Organic Farming Practices Act was strengthened to increase guidance and focus. Volunteers are being hired and funding is being made available to more organic farmers and processors. Removing regulations that make it difficult for families to have access to healthy food doesn’t mean they can resort to buying foods with less attention to the environment. There is plenty of market variety where those regulators were concerned. Whole Foods produces organic 365 Days a Year. Simply upscale, this chain of organic groceries offers a vast array of organically grown food. And in a recent season, Whole Foods also began selling organic sponge cake. Yogurt company Chobani is a household name both among millennials and conscientious consumers.
It serves 30 million customers a month across its five countries and generates $355.5 million in total sales, including organic sales. Unlike some of the food that is imported, Chobani makes products which are both fresher and more nutritious than conventional or chemical alternatives. Researchers from the University of Texas carried out a rigorous 6-week study on the nutritional quality of Chobani foods vs conventional apples — results are published in the journal Nutrition in September. This retail powerhouse is a stark contrast from the high-end markets many consumers are accustomed to in several major urban centers. Chicago’s Stonyfield is an irresistible organic supermarket sheltering difference when compared to typical grocery stores. Its organic fare is even more spectacular: “Our mission is to provide healthier foods for consumers with a focus on food satisfaction,” Stonyfield spokeswoman James Lawrence tells me. “We support our farmers and research institutions through ongoing support, research partnerships and events.” When I call Lawrence to ask about the launch of Chobani’s organic line, she replies with a smile, “Trust me.” . . .Over the last 30 years, Americans’ dietary choices have shifted dramatically toward green. Americans’ intake of an omnivorous diet — which encompasses dairy, fish, plant-based foods, eggs, cereals and soy products — has risen from 4.3 percent of national calories in 1980 to 19.1 percent in 2013, a compound 37 percent increase. In the last five years alone, Americans have accepted more dairy protein (dairy reduced 3 percent,) and more corn (3.3 percent,) than in the previous decade. Ditto for salmon, chicken, spinach, kale and beans — all percent increases in the past five years. So why the sudden surge in interest in organic produce?
Why are specialty stores stocking boxes of kale, sunflower seeds and hummus? Why are the Pulse supermarkets partnered with Esso taris and the Whole Foods environmental team lighting up Facebook and Twitter with talk of the need to reach more customers with their products? The gap between organic food and the “normal” it counters has become so wide our TVs are telling us this. In fact, organic food sales have been comfortably outpacing conventional food sales for more than two decades. But the growing numbers of pregnant and postpartum women are making purely organic foods a great place to start. The organic food industry and its advocates are working hard to make homogenization a thing of the past. “I find we’re talking more about a deeper relationship on the basis of respect and all those important values that follow, not just buying a bunch of food,” says Dave Fleischer from Natural Way Foods, which offers 100 percent organically produced foods. “I see that as an opportunity to continue to make it, grow it, nurture it and offer it to a broader audience.” Still, Fleischer is aware that many consumers are wary. “It’s changed, and organic has changed, forever and ever.
Water Conservation
I believe what we’ve got to do is work together to market our water truthers and create opportunities for them to become part of the local agriculture community.”
WaterBoard Cooperatives
“WaterBoard Cooperatives” will be one of the most innovative ways to distribute and promote water conservation and reuse in Detroit.
“We aim to ensure that there is affordable, equitable, and sustainable water usage by partnering with Detroit residents, farmers, and urban, suburban and rural organizations to participate in water network. We also press for the first time to achieve a targeted target for community small-scale water and storm water capture projects and planning,” said Michael Lawson, WaterBoard Cooperatives co-founder. “This is a very empowering opportunity that allows us to continue to grow utilizing Detroit’s remaining vacant lots and to stop the diversion of Detroit’s water.
Ackerberg Insights
Localizing & Distributing Lead-Free Water – This map of Project DNA Water District shows that it’s difficult to get water new to a community without a distribution route. Most systems will have a range of distribution options, from a public resource to a private water network. Outfitting a community with water are a good long-term investment, and a necessary hurdle to accomplish.
This map of Project DNA Water District shows that it’s difficult to get water new to a community without a distribution route. Most systems will have a range of distribution options, from a public resource to a private water network. Outfitting a community with water are a good long-term investment, and a necessary hurdle to accomplish. How to prevent lead from leaching into the water from older system: If there’s lead plumbing in the household, the city of Detroit claims communities can fix the problem by repainting the interior of the pipes and taking away old paint.
If there’s lead plumbing in the household, the city of Detroit claims communities can fix the problem by repainting the interior of the pipes, taking away old paint and doing floor removal. As Detroit faces the biggest water crisis in metro Detroit in more than 70 years, can water districts move in to solve it? Can water districts give the city its water back? ‘Yeah, absolutely,’ says [Charles] Pugh. Pittsburgh’s former water regulator [William H. Leitzinger Jr.] looks at the example of Flint, Michigan and hopes that the water system in Detroit’s backyard can pick up the reins and fix the problem.
“The old Keystone gas station [at] Union and Washington [Aves.] lies in ruins, one of many larger abandoned structures that have been stripped of their aqueduct water by the city of Framingham. Through a coordination between the Energy Policy Institute of Massachusetts, Dana Alexander and Fauquier County Public Works, that old gas station—and the 26 available remnants of the original Water Ward network in Framingham—are being transformed into “long-term” means for replacing water infrastructure across the city.”
Flushing your Ammonia facility in the target bay.
Ammonia disinfection flushes away biological bacteria that form when water is held too long at 4 °C (37 °F).
Ammonia is soft and compressible, and is important in reducing flocculation (also called “alkalization”).
In flushing, the water is drained from a holding tank to a tank without a holding tank, where ammonia-containing enzymes are released generation** enzymes from bacteria and enzymes from visible scales (which are parasites).
The swimming inhibiting resins on the algae in sample sediments are yellowish in color, indicative of potential for immersion in water containing extremely low levels of dissolved oxygen in the waste water pool.
Salts are accumulating in the aqueous portion of the sludge, indicating a mechanical flushing.
National Intelligence Plans
Nationally, U.S. farmers raised an estimated 322,000 acres (100,000 hectares) of organic crops in 2016, a 693 percent increase since 1987.Supporting paragraph started–brief reference to paragraph 7–end of paragraph. †For historical economic data related to this amendment, see subsequent page of the Office of Management and Budget , Document 1032–1140.EXAMPLE 24—H.R. 3520 (2000)This example could illustrate the applicability of the preceding paragraph to a consolidated report updating the statutory text and standards on congressional and agency use of front-of-package labeling.EXAMPLE 25—S. 1123 (2013)This example could illustrate the applicability of the preceding paragraph to a consolidated report updating the statutory text and standards on congressional and agency use of front-of-package labeling.EXAMPLE 26—H.R. 4737 (2015)This example could illustrate the applicability of the preceding paragraph to a consolidated report updating the statutory text and standards on congressional and agency use of front-of-package labeling.EXAMPLE 27—S. 1140 (2016)This example could illustrate the applicability of the preceding paragraph to a consolidated report updating the statutory text and standards on congressional and agency use of front-of-package labeling.EXAMPLE 28—S. 1175 (2016)This example could illustrate the applicability of the preceding paragraph to a consolidated report updating the statutory text and standards on congressional and agency use of front-of-package labeling.
Farming is one of the most reliable ways of earning a steady income. The resources for farming are readily available; one does not need advanced skills in order to engage in farming. With an increasing number of Americans shying from farming, there is less competition and more opportunities. Needless to say, there are some parts of America where farming is suitable, and there are others where farming is not a sustainable economic endeavor.
This paper explores farming and types of crops grown in Boulder, Colorado.
Background
Boulder County, Colorado, has a very rich history in agriculture. It has been a history of large wheat farms as well as feeding the workers who were working in the mining sector. Colorado is a state that is known for its great diversity and different geographical and climatic conditions. Colorado is composed of mesas, mountains, plateaus, and plains.
The soil at Boulder is alkaline and is clayish, and therefore, it can be difficult to change. When you irrigate the Boulder land, or the rain falls, water is retained. This is either good or bad depending on the situation and the type of crop that should be grown.
In Colorado, soils can be well draining, and moisture can be held well. Therefore, if you decide to do farming at Boulder, you might require to do less watering of your crops. Addition of compost plays a critical role in enhancing rich soils.
However, like any other parts of the US, the size of the acreage has reduced, and a significant number of people are leaving farming in order to engage in other activities. This is due to the rising cost of agriculture, and a lure to better earning opportunities beyond Boulder. This is more so as pertaining to the younger generation of farmers.
Best Types of Crops for A Boulder, CO Farm
Melon
Rocky Fold, Colorado, is known for its sweet melons. The peak season for melon at Boulder is August. However, storms and fail has a negative effect on the growing of melon in Boulder, and the farmers have cried foul over this issue for many years. There have also been cases where high winds affected the melon yield, with the wind breaking some fruits. The irony is that in the cases of drought, the melon crop tends to do very well. Hot and dry weather helps in increasing the sugar content of the melon crop, resulting in delicious products.
One of the most established growers of melon at Boulder are the Rocky Ford Growers Association. The organization has accumulated vast experience in this sector and its reputation is unparalleled. The farmers, mostly family members, harvest melons every day, and the melons are available at the grocers in a span of 12 hours. It has reliable members of staff who play an important role in pushing the agenda of the farm.
The Rocky Ford Growers Association is known for their use of cutting-edge technology. GPS-guided tractors are used in the farm, as well as the row coverings that help in reducing evaporation. The use of cutting edge technology helps in reducing the amount of fuel used in a day, and it helps in protecting the baby plants and drip lines.
Grapes Vines
Beginning in the last century, there has been extensive grapes farming at Boulder. As a matter of fact, vineyard acreage has increased over the years. This is due to the culture of giving visitors a glass of wine, or meeting friends over wine rather than a cup of coffee.
However, the biggest challenge in grape farming in Colorado is that grapes may not be able to withstand cold temperatures during winter. Thus, if a farmer decides to grow grapes at Boulder, one should use strong viti-cultural skills as well as varietal selection.
There are four main mistakes that a grape farmer in Colorado should avoid and these are the following:
-Planting grapes in an area with poor drainage
-Purchase of poor quality vines
-Planting grapes when it is too late in the season
-A big acreage which can stretch human resource and physical farming resources
Stonebridge Farm, Boulder, is one of the farms which grow grapes vines in Colorado. The farm boasts of 150 vines which are under cultivation. The farm has existed for over 25 years, and it is a community farm. The farm offers short courses, for instance, on grape pruning.
Corn Growing
Colorado has never been categorized as a corn belt. That notwithstanding, growth of corn in Colorado has increased rapidly, and the state has one of the highest yields in corn production. Corn grows best in areas which are hot, areas with sufficient moisture, and areas which do not have overly cool nights. Due to this, corn in Colorado may not attain the right size, but it is a rewarding crop all the same and farmers are able to over-come such challenges.
Sweet corn from Boulder has found its way in American stores all over the country. The research and development work by David Galinat led to a corn product which has a higher level of sugar when compared to the normal variety of corn. He was one of the most passionate people when it comes to research and teaching about sweet corn.
Boulder farmers participate in the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. The festival was started by Dave Galinet who had moved to Olathe. Many years before the festival, the town was facing hard economic times. Then the fortunes of the town started changing mainly through the efforts of agriculture which led to sustainability. The festival is now one of the most agricultural events in the country.
Sugar Beets
Sugar beets have been grown since 1900 and they were mostly grown by the Germans. The farms which were established then have been passed down from generation to generation and some are still productive even in the modern generation. Paul, a 63 year old farmer, stated that sugar beets are part and parcel of his heritage. He has been farming them throughout his adult life. When sugar beet is grown at Colorado, it is converted into white table sugar.
At some point in history, sugar beet was a cash crop in Colorado. However, over the years, a harsh economic reality faced the sugar beet farmers, the net prices dwindled, and the farmers started looking for viable alternatives. Not to mention beets have a distinct dye and when brought into a house could cause enough damage to have to do a remodel Boulder CO farm house job. Even with such challenges, some farmers persisted, and they are now able to benefit from technology in order to grow sugar beet more efficiently. With the use of modern technology, farmers do not have to use a large acreage to do farming. In addition to that, they do not have to do the burning of the soil.
Vegetables
Vegetables are very important in ensuring the right diet and a healthy lifestyle, and their role in health cannot be underestimated. The problem, then, becomes how a state can grow its own vegetables and sustain itself. Colorado has made an aggressive effort in order to ensure that the state can feed itself and meet the demand for vegetables.
For example, the Urban Farm is a perfect example par excellence when it comes to the growth of vegetables. With its raised gardens, the farm is a training institute where it trains interested Boulder residents on how to farm and helps them in making critical decisions. The farm has the following selling pints for its gardens:
-One chooses what to grow in the farm depending on one’s needs and preferences
-The urban farm does all the installation for the interested farmer
-Farmers get to eat their own food, and healthy food for that matter. Growing own food is craftsmanship, idealism, as well as self-sufficiency.
-It concentrates on the growth of organic food
-Gardening should be easy and fun
The farm has identified the following crops as the easiest to grow: tomatoes, beans, brasil, and leafy greens. The farm has identified the most difficult farms to grow which are: watermelon, sweetcorn, potatoes, and brussel sprouts. The urban farms controls the conditions in the farm including timing of the planting, plant spacing, soil depth, and soil composition.
Herbs
Herbs love Boulder, and the resident of Boulder love herbs. Dozens of herbs can be grown in Colorado, and unlike some types of plants, they can grow the year round. Farmers at Boulder notice the good combination between growing of herbs and beekeeping. Many herbs produce sweet nectar, and this is a very good condition for bee keeping. Bees find flowering herbs a very good treat for their affinity to sweet things.
There is a general consensus among Boulder farmers that the herb contest is comfortably won by basil. The Italian basil has a huge following in the culinary world. In addition to that, the African Blue Bush is known for being rich in ingredients.
The importance of herbs in homes cannot be underestimated. They are an important source of medicinal value. Herbs can be used as part of landscaping and in enhancing the aesthetics of the home.
Threats to Agriculture in Boulder County, Colorado
The greatest threat to agriculture in Boulder County is the increasing cost of property in Boulder County, Colorado. This makes it very difficult for the county to record start-up projects in agriculture due to the high initial capital. As a matter of fact, some interested upcoming farmers never make it in places such as Boulder.
There have been changes in the way modern farming is done compared to traditional farming, and this has negatively affected the agricultural sector at Boulder. Today, there is a reduction in open farming, and the empowerment of the resident farmer is greatly eroded.
Like some parts of the US, the agricultural plains of Colorado have been a source of fires. Fires can leave the farmers devastated, as they lose their crop as well as farm property. Some farmers have lost their lives trying to quell their fires.
It is one thing to read about global warming in the news, and it is another thing to go through such experiences when you are a farmer. Climate change affects agriculture either directly or indirectly. These is due to the following changes in circumstances:
-Changes in the average temperatures of a certain region
-Extreme temperatures, a heat wave for instance
-Changes in the amount of rainfall
-More pests and diseases
-A change in the nutritional quality of food
Pessimists of climate change call it an illusion and deny its existence. But the results are out there for everyone to see, and the farmers are the most affected due to the impact of climate change. Unless something is done about climate change, and done in a hurry, the agricultural sector in North America will record heavy losses.
University of Colorado, Boulder, carried out a study on soil degradation in the state. The study notes with concern that soil fertility in the state has continued to decline over the years making it very hard for farmers to attain optimal yields. Corn farmers have to make use of fertilizers every year in order to attain the right yields.
However much you may try to change the conditions of agriculture in Colorado, sometimes you may not make it. In short, you are stuck with the crop that others are growing. The best thing is to accept the conditions on farm. For example, the decision to farm blue berries can be a difficult and expensive one. Researchers at Colorado State University have done pioneering research on how blue berries can be grown in Colorado.
Conclusion
Boulder, Colorado, offers a lot of potential when it comes to farming and agriculture. It is just a matter of carrying out the right research and development. If one decides to do farming in Boulder, then it should start with making decisions based on the specific locality. There are some challenges, but farming at Boulder, with the right strategies can be lucrative. Overall, if you decide to do farming at Boulder, you can never get it wrong.
For much of Pennsylvania’s history of farming as played an integral part in the development of not only in the states economy, but the economy of the United States as a whole. This is still a role carried today as the US Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ranks among the highest in mushroom, apples, grape, dairy, and grape and winemaking, according to the 2017 US Census of Agriculture.
All this only adds to the concern as Pennsylvania farming news indicates a steady decline in the state’s agricultural sector. This, compounded with the rise in rural populations and the effect of climate change, places the states main source on income under fire.
In this article, we’ll review the history of farming in the state, what the Pennsylvania farming news says about the current trajectory of the state’s agriculture, and what is being done to address it:
History of Pennsylvanian Farming
In order to better grasp the effects of the decline of farming in Pennsylvania, one needs to full grasp the context of what agriculture means to this part of the USA. Historically speaking, farming as been the life blood of the state from since before it was a state to being with. The decline projected in Pennsylvania farming news will not only hurt its income, it will risk the eradication of a long-held tradition as one of the nations agricultural powerhouses.
Pre-Colonial Farming
Native Americans, like the Lenape and Monongahela, have been cultivating the for corn, beans, and squash. The mostly occupies the Delaware Valley and the Upper Ohio Valley. The have done this until German Settlement began in what is today known as Lancaster and York County which continued in the usage of the land for farming.
Settlement Period
The period of settlement in Pennsylvania started from its founding up until the 1840s. It had become common among immigrants to acquire large stretches of land from Native Americans up until the early 1800s. Farming became an integral part of the settlers’ income though marketplaces early on were scarce. Families engaged in the trading of crops with other families and/or settlements in order to provide for their needs. Goods where also used for trade globally, especially as supplies in various European wars.
The Susquehanna River and Allegheny River served as the main routes for the transport of goods as suitable roads have yet to be built.
Civil War Farming
The Civil War sparked an increase in sheep and wool farming in the state in order to supply the demand for Union Army uniforms. This increase was short-lived though as its prominence in sheep and livestock raising halted with the end of the 19th century.
Farming During the Industrial Revolution
The creation of departments and agencies pertaining to farming and agriculture sparked widespread reform and development of rural Pennsylvania. Industrialization taking effect at the end of the 19th century and early 20th century revolutionized the farming practices. Tractors, refrigeration, and food packaging greatly improved productivity and the construction of a number of highways opened up more of the countryside for farming.
The Great Depression disenfranchised Pennsylvanian farmers the way it did all of the United States by the New Deal passed during the term of President Franklin D. Roosevelt greatly mitigated those effects.
Present-Day
Pennsylvania farming news of recent decades have continuously shown that farming, particularly dairy farming, is the largest industry in Pennsylvania. Farming is particularly common in the southeast region of the commonwealth, in counties like Lancaster, York, and Berks. 68 percent of Pennsylvania’s farming income is comprised of livestock raising. Christmas trees, ice cream, maple sugar, mushrooms, and fruits and vegetables are among the commonwealth’s other top produces as well as even having having an ergonomic workstation.
Recent Decline of Pennsylvanian Farming
Despite continuing to have one of the largest rural populations in the United States, recent Pennsylvania farming news has marked the steady decrease in the amount of farmland in the state. In a report by the Penn State’s College of Agriculture, 6 percent of the total farmland of the state has been lost of a 5-year period. The ramifications of this could include a lowering of statewide income, limited open land used for environmental protection.
Penn State News reports that with the land area of 7.3 million acres, the total number of farms in Pennsylvania has decreased by 10 percent as population growth and urbanization make farming less and less profitable.
As reported by witf.org. where population has been steadily increasing, especially in southeastern part of the state, farmland and preservations have been on the steady decline – concerning as this region makes up half of the state’s farmland. This is a shame as this part of the state boasts lowlands and planes that fosters rich soil ideal and a landscape ideal for agriculture.
Climate change has also threatened agriculture in reports among Pennsylvania farming news. Record rainfall in 2018, for instance, caused problems for farmers like the ones in southern York country – a winery’s grapes burst leaving them open to disease and possible causing the loss of as much as 3000 grape vines.
Climate change has also made the weather more erratic and hard to predict. Where before farmers could rely on predictable weather and seasonal patterns to time the growing of their crops, now wet and dry times are interspersed throughout the year. This damages crops and hurts the livelihood of thousands of farmers.
Despite all this, the dairy farming sector of Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry is surprising maintaining even during the pandemic – Lancaster Farming reports. According to the Center for Dairy Excellence, dairy accounts for 85 percent of the income in Lancaster country and the coronavirus pandemic threatened that with a disruption of supply chains. Milk dumping on March and May of last year also occurred. Even with these setbacks, the dairy industry continues to post profits – though cost-saving measures apply and its still far from the industry’s normal.
Proposed Solutions to Curb Decline
A look at the latest Pennsylvania farming news shows that the state’s government in not sitting idly while the farming community is under threat. In this year alone, legislation and reforms have been introduced to curb the decline of the agricultural sector, protect the people’s, livelihood, and promote more environmentally-friendly development in the hopes of fighting climate change. These solutions include but are not limited to:
Farmland Preservation Program – Pennsylvania Farming News
As farms are essential in the process of putting food on the table, the state of Pennsylvania has recently placed under protection 2,600 acres on 30 farms in 16 counties. This is part of the Farmland Preservation Program which aims to protect the commonwealth’s farmland and has been doing so since 1988.
According to the Pennsylvania Pressroom, the program has so far placed 5,843 farm, amounting to about 594,457 acres in 59 counties, under the preservation program. This protects the farms from any amount of urban development – whether it be residential, commercial, or industrial.
The protection also extends to the forested areas and possible wildlife habitats that happen to be near the farms. It does this in partnership with environmental agencies to safeguard the environment and endangered species. One example is the David and Diane Friedman Farm, a 49 acre crop operation that happened to be of interest to the US Fish and Wildlife Services due to its proximity to forested areas – areas that served as homes to an abundance of species. This led to no only the farm by the area around it being placed on a preservation status.
Another notable preservation according to recent Pennsylvania farming news is the Keith Eckel Farm whose soil was classified as the most productive due to its situation along the banks of the Susquehanna river in Lackawanna County.
The PA farms under protection have proved their worth as the pandemic made farms and agriculture an essential industry. In times when crises can come out of nowhere, food production and agriculture has proven to be a worthy investment on future stability.
Regenerative Farming – Pennsylvania Farming News
Many advocates, including the new Biden Administration, claims that regenerative agriculture is part of the solution to the effect of climate change and the decline in the commonwealth’s farming. Part of the climate adaptation scheme is a focus on the soil of the crops and how good, healthy soil can act as a buffer against the extreme turns of the weather.
Plants naturally take CO2 out from the atmosphere and embeds it into the soil through the roots. Less CO2 in the air means less greenhouse gases. The Rodale Institute in Berks County is advocating for such practices like cover cropping. Cover cropping is a regenerative agricultural practice wherein farmers cover their crops with clover or rye after harvest in order to let them grow during the winter. This draws down carbon, suppresses the growth of weeds, and adds nutrients to the soil.
This is also an investment as it actually add to the times when farmers can grow and sell crops. Increased fertilization of the soil promotes growth spurts in plants and the covering of the soil through winter means that farmers can profit from their land even during the cold.
Other recent Pennsylvania faming news states that regenerative farming has been the subject of some doubt though on its ability to effectively hold C02 and provide the needed nutrients for plants so much to supplant artificial fertilizers. Scientists like Franklin Egan, Education Director at Pasa Sustainable Agriculture, argues that in studying 100 farmers who practiced regenerative farming, the ability of soil to hold c02 is much lower than some projections while its ability to hold nitrogen as been overlooked.
Proposed Marijuana – Pennsylvania Farming News
Lancaster Pennsylvania Farming news reports that 2 state senators have proposed a bill to legalize the use of recreational marijuana. Introduced in February 24, 2021, the bill is 70 pages long and outlines the specifics of who can farm marijuana, who can use it, and how the crop could be regulated.
The plan is to allow the micro-cultivation of the crop by 150 farmers in the first 2 years then allowing supply and demand to drive growth afterwards. The cultivation though would be subject to a production cap also known as a canopy cap. It is to be governed by a Cannabis Board which fall under the joint jurisdiction of the Agriculture and Health departments.
The legalization and farming of marijuana could possibly open an avenue for revenue growth both for the state government in the form of taxes and licensing fees, and farmers cashing in on the latest cash crop. So far, the marijuana industry can garner the commonwealth at least 400 million dollars in tax revenue alone while also aiding in job growth. Pennsylvania farming news has also conducted fiscal studies on states like Alaska and California, the later of which earned 780 million dollars in tax collection from the marijuana industry in 2019.
A 2019 poll conducted by Franklin & March College found that 58 percent of the registered number of voters in the state said that they approved of the legalization of marijuana for recreational use – this includes two-thirds of Democrats and Independents, and 48 percent of self-described Republicans.
Proposed Investment on Animal Health and Food Security – Pennsylvania Farming News
Governor Tom Wolf has proposed a 2021-2022 budget which includes a 42.6 million dollar investment in veterinary systems and research in an effort to promote better animal health and food security. In investing in things like animal care research, sanitation, diagnostics, and the improvement of laboratory facilities ensures that animals, whether in farms being raised for food, or in homes as family companions, are at their healthiest.
Conclusion
We certainly hope the article was both informative and helpful to you in understanding the gist of current Pennsylvania farming news.
More developments no doubt are underway with regards to adversities, resolutions, and Pennsylvania farming news in general – developments that need to be tracked by anyone interested in the preservation and welfare of the agricultural sector. Making sure that this industry, with a long and storied history, stays robust and stable is an investment in our own long-term security.
Food is a necessity of life and the industry that puts food table should be thought of nothing less than the life blood of our society. Curbing the decline as reported by Pennsylvania faming news is of the utmost priority.
The year 2021 has been an eventful year for farming in Michigan. There is a big hope of going back to normality after the devastation of COVID 19. However, there has been many challenges all the same, fire for instance. This paper will discuss farming in Michigan and the major in 2021.
Types of Farming
Like in most states, Michigan is not heterogonous in the type of farming that can be carried out. There is a lot of variation that comes due to the specific regions. Therefore, most of the Michigan residents prefer to grow and farm what others are doing. There have been cases where farmers lost a lot of their investment.
The following are the main categories of farming in Michigan:
–Dairy farming: This is done in the southern as well as the central parts in the Lower Peninsula
-Dry, soy, and beans are mainly grown in the Saginaw Valley
-Corn and wheat is grown in the central as well as the southern parts of the Lower Peninsula
-Fruits are normally grown in the Lower Peninsula and along Lake Michigan
-Nurseries as well as green houses are farmed in the Detroit Metropole including Macomb, Wayne, and Oakland
Having discussed that, there are various factors which can help a Michigan farmer determine what to farm. These are the following:
–Physical factors: The physical factors which determine what a Michigan farmer should farm are the type of soil, topography, and climate. Because there is little that a Michigan farmer can do over the amount of rain, then one can make a decision to do irrigation. Productivity can be improved through modifying acidity, fertility, and organic matter content. Some farmers decide not to till their land in a certain season in order to enhance the fertility of the soil. Others use natural solutions such as mulching.
–Economic factors: Every farmer has to do a thorough analysis of the amount that is going to be spent in farming. Some types of farming are known to be capital-intensive, and one needs to be prepared early enough in order to gather the necessary funding. The good thing is that the US has some reliable sources of funding which a farmer can exploit in order to start a farming project. It should be noted that one may need to buy a farm in order to start farming, and that is not cheap.
The Winter and Wheat Crops
The year 2021 has been a challenging time for the wheat farmers in Michigan. In the year 2021, temperatures reached as low as -18 degrees Fahrenheit. Farmers started getting worried that the cold temperatures would start affecting the wheat crop. This is more so because there is little that one can do about winter.
However, the farmers should not be overly worried about such incidences, and they do happen. Again, much as the temperatures are low, it does not in any way mean that the soil temperatures are low. Winter survival could be guaranteed as far as there are no snow melts, and farmers should not be worried about this.
Michigan Farmers Union
The Michigan Farmers Union plays a critical role in the protection and enhancing the opportunities that farmers have in Michigan as well as Michigan Welding. In addition to that, the union has played an important role in improving the lives of the Michigan farmers, and its achievement in the course of years is a testimony to the same.
The union holds that if the rural communities are to thrive, then, family agriculture is of paramount importance. The union advocates for a grass root structure where policy decisions can be locally implemented, and therefore, have an impact on the local population of the people. The union is a respected voice on critical agricultural issues, not just at the state level, but at the local level too. The union has made a concrete strategic plan in order to help the farmers in Michigan in a better way.
Michigan Farm Fun
Some farms in the US are so unique that they are a tourist attraction site. In such cases, families and children can spend time together as they sightsee the farms and learn a lot in such activities. The Michigan agri-tourism Association has recognized Michigan as a rich agricultural state. It’s a non-profit association which supports the industry through networking, problem resolution, advocacy, as well as education.
There are farms in Michigan which warmly welcome the visitors. This can be for the purpose of educating the visitors or just for fun. Agritourism destinations are evolving, and they are growing. Farmers should learn the best way of tapping the potential that comes with this type of tourism.
Use of Farming Technology
Michigan has not been left behind in the use of farming technology. Michigan State University is the pioneer and the leading example of farming technology. The Institute of Agricultural Technology, Michigan State University, was founded in 1984 in order to help the Michigan farmers improve in their yields. By then, the technology in use was not anywhere compared to what the modern world can provide, but it was a great achievement all the same. The Institute of Farming Technology aims at offering career-ready farming skills that offer training as well as professional experience.
Other farmers have used technology from as far as China. This is because technology sourced from such technology can be cheaper than American technology, though not necessarily of the desired quality.
Challenges Facing Farming in Michigan
Agriculture and farming in Michigan is not very consistent, unlike the mid-western, the prairies, and the corn-belt. This is due to climatic characteristics, drainage, topography, and heterogeneous soils. The southern half, the Lower Peninsula, has the largest amount of land which can be cultivated, and has the most farms. The rest of the state has poor agricultural conditions.
Michigan State University has stated that farmers in Michigan feel that the agricultural sector can be a very uncertain sector. The university cited the planting season which can be a time when the farmers experience extreme weather. Extreme weather makes it difficult to carry out farm operations and makes it difficult for planting.
Low prices for farm produce are a problem that cuts across farmers in the US. It has been estimated that since 2013, net income that farmers gain has reduced by a half. Unlike in some professions where farmers are cushioned against inflation, farmers continue to face challenges that come with the rising cost of goods and services.
Michigan has cried foul over issues in international trade arising. Tariffs on crops such as soya beans have had a negative impact on farming in the state. Many Americans farmers complain that they are receiving unfair competition from China, and they have requested the American government to intervene in protecting them.
The penetration of farming technology among the farmers is not high. Farming technology benefits farmers because it offers precision farming. But this type of technology is generally expensive. Some types of farming technology will require that you hire a certain type of specialist or an expert who can offer the relevant skills. Getting such an expert is not only expensive, but it may not be cheap to come by.
Farmers in Michigan have cried foul over lack of labor during the harvesting season thereby leaving the produce to rot in the farms. For example, farmers in Grand Rapids contacted the authorities over the fact that they cannot get enough laborers to do the harvesting of their farms. The most affected crops are tomatoes because they go bad fast. Other affected crops include cucumbers, apples, and cantaloupes.
The number of farmers in the US is declining. In the US, the average American farmer is 58 years old. The younger generation is simply not interested in taking over such farms. Fred Leitz, speaking from Sodus, Michigan, is worried that he could be the last one in his family to engage in farming, and he is worried about who will inherit the farm. Such a problem will affect the entire state because it will not be easy to feed the state.
Possible Solutions
It is therefore important that all stakeholders in the farming sector in Michigan look for viable and sustainable ways of addressing the challenges facing the farmers in the state. One of the most effective ways of addressing these challenges is to increase the opportunities of funding to the Michigan farmers.
The US does not fair badly in economies of scale. However, states such as Michigan need better opportunities if they are to take advantage of economies of scale in their farming endeavours. The state can do this through encouraging mergers across the state.
Public education to the farmers cannot be under-estimated. It is through education that farmers can learn about the best way of making improvements in the agricultural sector. Through public education, residents of Michigan can be converted to take farming which badly needs the employees. In addition to that, through public education, farmers can make an informed decision that they will not regret later.
There are three main solutions to the problem of labor shortage in Michigan farms. To start with, the US should make it easier to pass legislation which is going to allow a significant number of guest workers into the country. The workers do not have to be citizens. Because the farmers may not provide a permanent contract, there should be an agreement that allows the quest workers in the country, and of course, with the right compensation.
The use of technology is one of the surest ways of attracting farm labor. Technology can save on the cost of labor, and it is more reliable than human capital. In addition to that, some types of technology can be used over a number of years. This makes investing in technology a fruitful endeavor.
The US government has no option but to allow some of the illegal immigrants to be documented so that they can apply for work legally. If the illegal immigrants are not encouraged to take part in mainstream economy, they are going to work illegally. Many farmers do not want to take part in illegal labor because it goes against the established laws and regulations. Some of the illegal immigrants have very strong human resource skills which can be tapped in order to benefit the country.
Fire Incidences
Like many other farmers, farmers in Michigan have faced the problem that comes with fires. The following cases are an example:
Berrien County, Michigan: This was the scene of a big barn fire which led to the death of several animals. The killed animals include four llamas, a peacock, and some chicken. A call was made to the the Chikaming Township Fire Department, but by the time the department arrived, it could not do anything to save the affected animals. However, the fire did not spread for a very large area.
Kent County, Michigan: On march 4, firefighter was treated for burns after he was over-whelmed by a fire. Firefighters responded to a fire on 52nd Street SE. Though the firefighters were not able to contain the fire in a timely manner, they were able to contain its spread to the neighboring areas. The affected firefighter was treated. The cause of the fire was not known.
Towards the Future
The Michigan agricultural sector has a lot of potential, and farmers should be prepared for future opportunities. If a farmer is interested in investing in Michigan, he or she can never go wrong. There are ample opportunities in the farming sector and all one needs to do is to check carefully for the same. This can be done through carrying out thorough research on the best farming opportunities.
Conclusion
Farming in the US is an ideal investment. Because many people are shying away from farming, and others are quitting the profession, it translates to less competition in both the short and the long run. Overall, strategic farming carries a high rate of return on investment and is definitely worth consideration.
Michigan farming news focus on the agriculture industry. From tree fruit production, soybeans, dairy farming, environmental regulations, and more. Here is the top farming news of 2021.
Growing non-GMO, Weed control is a priority
According to Penn State Extension educator (Union County), there’s an opportunity to tap on markets that focus on GMO beans, but it all depends on the location. Any justification on the growth boils down to the cost versus the returns you get.
Because the main cost is weed control, Michigan farmers should ensure the premium is high to offset the cost of herbicides. Common weed species like marestail, ragweeds, and pigweeds are resistant to herbicides, so the best to use are:
Harmony
FirstRate
Pursuit and raptor
Classic
After this farming news was released, Brett Taylor (a renowned farmer) could not take chances. Taylor’s crop rotation consists of 200 acres of soybeans, 350 acres of corn, and 100 acres of intricate wheat.
Most Michigan farming news has highlighted a few facts about market dynamics. For instance, as the prices of soybeans go through the roof, it can be unreasonable to grow non-GMO soybeans. When addressing Michigan farming news reporters, the Michigan University Soybean educator stated that the contract for non-GMO is going to be flat due to high commodity prices.
Another headache for many farmers is making sure the beans are harvested at the right moisture content. This is where a high level of management and segregation comes in.
Digital farm service adds long-range weather forecasts
Everyone talks about the weather, but a few people do something about it. According to Raymond Schmitt, BASF and salient, the predictions give a view of the environmental parameters.
This Michigan news also stated that Raymond Schmitt (president and co-founder of salient productions) developed an accuracy model that only works for a few days then it degrades. But after several years of research, the company has developed an array of environmental parameters.
Digital weather forecast could mean:
Change in fungicide application
Faster crop advancement
Coping with management challenges
Farmers can now use Xarvio and a new salient prediction service. The right forecasting could mean delayed planting or dropping the seeds at the right time to maintain crop yield.
Keeping farmers in future climate solutions
The Senate hearing on climate change has become the top Michigan farming news in recent months. In its first hearing, it agreed that carbon markets offer income to producers and could be cost-prohibitive.
According to a ranking John Boozman, there are many exciting opportunities to reward farmers. But the current reality is that they must navigate the complex barriers to curb market uncertainty. Other costs they should keep in mind include:
Technical services
Validation
New technologies and equipment
Costs associated with verification
Boozman also added that the administration must address the framework to combat climate change, promote farmer participation, and distort planting decisions.
To ensure a family-friendly solution, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
Should be a voluntary approach – Sen. Cory Booker told the committee that a voluntary approach must be realized. And farmers are always selling crops to keep the cost of operation low.
Flexibility
Carbon should not be the only consideration
Locally LED input is key
Reward those who have smart climate practices
Science must be the center of the discussion
Farming is a collaborative effort
Michigan Food Farming system to host SARE farmer forum
In January 2021, the Michigan State University organized a forum. But what made this part of Michigan news is the fact that they allowed farmers to use SARE grants to conduct education projects. The speakers gave first-hand experience and reports on how the projects impacted their farms. Some of the discussions on the forum included:
Intercropping for small scale vegetable production
Designing a mobile milking parlor
Funding opportunities to reward farmers
Agricultural professionals in extension services
Over few months, extension services have become part of Michigan news as it encourages people to take action through education. In a joint conference between the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management and Michigan State University, the programming staff proposed the idea of writing a collaboration book. The document shared:
The best practices
Models
Innovative initiatives
To build bridges, Michigan and India have formed joint international conferences and educational trips.
AG Market Outlook Lower than farm income in 2021
A decrease in government payment was highlighted as top news early this year- for good reasons. While the outlook is uncertain, farmers remain optimistic in their farming activities. For instance, the government has provided a few programs that ensure the price of commodities rebound in the months to come.
The bipartisan bill encourages whole milk in schools
Michigan State passed a bill to provide healthy options for school-aged children. When addressing Michigan farming news reporters, the UN representatives introduced a bipartisan whole milk act of 2021 that allowed kids to enjoy flavored and unflavored milk. This gives the school more options in providing nutritious milk to children.
In the past, some of the Michigan farming news has emphasized that whole milk provides essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and vitamin D. It also has a rich nutritional profile that consists of:
Riboflavin
Vitamin B12
Niacin
Vitamin A
Protein
Wisconsin Farmers appointed to the Dairy board
Early 2021, the top Michigan Farming news was the appointment of Becky Levzow of Rio and George Crave of Waterloo as members of USDA’s National Dairy board. The board consists of 36 farmers that represent 13 regions. Since the board was established in 1983, it has worked hard to strengthen the dairy industry.
Following the appointment, this Michigan news came with a few surprises – two incumbents were defeated. But most of them faced no opposition. The goal of the directors is to:
To formulate and set policies
Guide organization finances
Come up with a business plan
Maintain its mission
Spring looks bright for crop distributors
The agronomy outlook that has been highlighted in Michigan news shows that there’s a strong demand for agricultural inputs. The planting season started with favorable fundamentals to expand the profit margins.
The 2021 spring season showed improving profits that cushion an inversion into the future. While many producers have missed on gains on soybean crops, others have recorded significant profits in dairy farming. But as financial leverage continues to increase, farmers should expect more crop usage in 2021.
But given the high acreage forecast, farmers should buy fertilization products during the planting season. On the other hand, the fertilization level is expected to increase. While logistical bottlenecks remain a risk, farmers should take note of delays in certain parts of the county.
New grant to help carrot and wheat farmers deter pests
This Michigan news became a big debate for months – for good reasons. Unfortunately, most farmers can’t see the pests on their farms until the damage is too much. This is not something to be taken lightly considering that Michigan is a key producer of carrot and wheat.
According to Marisol and Henry Chung, there has been extensive research in the MSU Department of Entomology to identify the two lesion nematodes. In preliminary research, the ways these two nematodes specify flourish depend on the reproduction method. This Michigan Farming news indicates that farmers should use crop rotation, nematicide, and other alternatives to control nematodes.
Through accurate identification, farmers can get accurate damage thresholds and come up with an alternative method of control. On the other hand, carrot farmers interested in compost manure can develop strategies to manage pests.
Phosphorus and potassium are recommended for high yields
In March 2021, most Michigan farming news emphasized the need to use potassium and phosphorus fertilizer – it’s the best way to maximize economic returns. In a comprehensive soil testing program, the concentration for a given nutrient should be about 95-97%.
The Michigan State University nutrient recommendation is that these minerals should not be at critical levels. But when the maintenance level is higher than the maintenance limit, there’s no need for additional nutrient applications.
For soybean, the critical level for phosphorus is estimated to be 20 parts per million – the maintenance limit is set at 40 ppm. To be safe, the application should be done during fall. This reduces fertilizer fixation and improves phosphorus fertilizer availability.
Similarly, potassium application should not be less than 5 meg/100mg. The critical level is rated at 100 ppm, while the normal limit is around 130. But again, such levels are based on soil test results. However, you can apply potassium and phosphorus under the following soybean crop rotation:
The soil PH should be less than 7.4
The application rate accounts for potassium and phosphorus removal
The application is done before applying corn
When potassium and phosphorus are below the critical level, farmers should build the required test levels.
STATEWIDE Spring Tree Fruit webinar series
The spring tree fruit webinar series is the top Michigan Farming news in the state. It’s specifically dedicated to hobbyist fruit growers due to the restrictions on the current events.
The application is open statewide. All you need is to provide your name, contact information, email, location, and any other relevant information. After you complete the process, you should click on the date you wish to attend the webinar.
While most farmers appreciate this Michigan Farming News, a few have been having challenges with using Zoom. Once you receive an email on the zoom link, you’ll be prompted to enter contact information. It’s something you can do via desktop or mobile device.
WHEAT PETE Wisdom Webinar Series
Perhaps, this is the most awaited webinar that has become top Michigan farming news. It will be presented on 17th March 2021 by Peter Johnson. The main topic of the day is how to fin-tune wheat.
In a similar webinar that kicked in February, it registered more than 1000 people. The discussion focused on enhancing wheat fields and marketing produce.
The webinar will start with a quick update on Michigan wheat happenings and then followed by a keynote presentation. There will also be a time for questions and answers. According to Michigan news reporters, the webinar is set to begin at 8 pm and will run for about 1 hour 30 minutes.
To register for the webinar, you should visit the Michigan wheat program website or the wheat wisdom webinar series. After registration, you’ll get an email and a link to the instructions. And thanks to the unique partnership, the webinar will be available for live viewing on Facebook.
Farm with no employees to benefit from paycheck protection program
Based on 2020 gross income, farmers can apply for a paycheck protection program. This is arguably the best Michigan farming news in the first quarter of 2021. According to CARES ACT 2020, the program is designed to give loans to small businesses who specialize in Michigan crane and rigging and farms. While so much has been done on the provision of payroll expenses, PPP loans will cater to the needs of self-employed farmers.
While this Michigan farming news may look great on paper, there have been a few challenges. Due to the negative impact of COVID-19, the first draw is yet to be received. And it gets a little complicated because the second loan requires that a business experiences a 25% reduction in gross receipts.
For sole proprietors, the owner compensation income is based on annual gross income. The multi-member LLCs are subject to loan amount calculation. After receipt of funds, farms must spend on expenses for 8-24 months. Any remaining funds must be spent on operating expenses.
Farm stress teletherapy to include Michigan Aquaculture and commercial fishers
A few weeks the Michigan News that topped the headlines involved how Michigan fish farmers can enroll in online counseling. The truth is, seafood producers face a lot of challenges like not knowing how much fish will be cast and unpredictable weather.
These stressors may be overwhelming to fish farmers because their livelihoods depend on factors beyond their control. And despite the emotional and physical demands on their jobs, commercial farmers must accept the risks and base their efforts on operating a successful business.
Farm stress teletherapy involves:
Helping commercial fishers recognize signs of stress
A small portion of the American population is employed in the farming sector, but many deaths arise from the farming activities. A farm is a potentially dangerous workplace. Because the type of work done is physically demanding, it is not uncommon to find injuries in the agricultural workplaces. Whereas some farm accidents are small in nature, some can be complex and are a life-defining moment.
The most effective way of preventing and managing farm accidents is through taking safety training. The following article will guide you on why farmers need safety training:
Causes of Farm Accidents
There are various causes of farm accidents. To start with, farm machinery such as a tractor is not only heavy to operate but also heavy. In such a case, an over-turn is a possibility, and if it happens, then, the life of the farmer, the employees, or anyone nearby could be in danger. The U.S. Department of Labor states that at least 44 % of all farm accidents involve cases of tractor roll-over.
Animal related injuries may not be a very common source of farm accidents, but they are a point of concern all the same. For example, horses may appear calm, but once they go wild, they lead to serious cases of injuries. As a matter of fact, most of such accidents arise from animals which are generally considered as non-fatal.
Falls in the farms is a common occurrence. Farmers have to face the harsh reality of heights and the consequences of the same. It should be noted that the older are more vulnerable to a fall. Similarly, farmers with chronic conditions can fall. In addition to that, when one is taking medication, there is a probability of a farm accident, more so when one operates a machine when taking medication.
The following are the main events of falls in a farm:
-Falling off the ladder when working
-Falling when working with an animal
-Tripping when walking in an uneven surface
Exposure to chemicals remains a major threat to the farmers and employees. The main types of chemical exposure include pesticides and herbicides. Symptoms of exposure to chemicals include burning eyes, watery eyes, coughing, sneezing, nausea, dizziness, sweating, abdominal pain, and fever.
Exposure to chemicals in the farm can lead to poisoning, persistent pneumonia, liver damage, damage of other organs, irritation of the skin, and even death. It should be noted that the impact of chemical poisoning has the highest impact when it is swallowed. When a farmer takes safety training, he or she understands the most appropriate response to a case of chemical exposure.
There have been cases of suffocation in farms. This mostly occurs in cases where there are low levels of oxygen, in silos for instance. Some farms may have places which are enclosed, and such places may have low levels of oxygen. There have been cases of farmers getting suffocated in places that they least expected.
Why Farmers Need Safety Training
Dressing Appropriately
Did you know that dressing appropriately is, as a matter of fact, a safety precaution. Serious injuries have been caused by an untied shoe lace, stray threads, and long hair. Safety training can include what a farmer should wear. Many of the accidents arise from entanglement with a farm machine. One thinks the dressing is a minor thing, but it can lead to very harsh outcomes.
The following safety precautions in dressing can play a critical role in enhancing safety measures:
-Tie your boots all the times, and tie them in a firm way
-Ensures that the shoe soles are slip-resistant
-Shirts should be comfortable and fitting
-If you have long hair, tie it when you are working
-Protective equipment plays a critical role in preventing injuries
-Simply put, some garments are not suitable for the job
Having stated that, it is critical that the farmers dress in the right clothing when they are working in the farm. Similarly, the farmer should ensure that all the employees are given the right equipment. Some activities in the farm will require the right protection gear. For example, spraying the farm requires being careful with protecting yourself as one could be exposed to dangerous sprays.
Handling Children
Children will always be children; they are going to be playful and they are going to be spontaneous. As a responsible farmer, you need to protect your children, your neighbor’s children, and other children in the community. Rather than commanding the children, have a dialogue with the children on simple safety measures.
The following precaution measures can help you protect the children:
-Children should not play anywhere near a farm equipment
-The children should not eat or drink anything in the farm
-The children should report to an adult about any incidence in the farm
-Give the children safety education in a language that they can understand
The Law and Safety Training
In many cases, training in safety could be a matter of law. The National Ag Safety Database and OSHA training gives a number of laws and regulations that govern the safety of agricultural workers, and in deed, many other stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Efforts that help in the improvement of safety are generally categorized as engineering, legislative, and education.
It is an accepted observation that the process of farming can expose someone to harsh climatic conditions, a difficult terrain, and chemicals. It is therefore the responsibility of the farmer to be familiar with the law in order to protect him, the employees, and other third parties. If a farmer follows the right safety measures, he or she is going to save the farm from a lot of troubles.
Now that it may not be easy to understand law, one should think about seeking the opinion of a lawyer. Some lawyers have a niche in their offices which deal with farm safety. Having a reliable lawyer can help a farmer to make informed decisions pertaining health as well as safety management.
You should note that you can be slapped with a lawsuit if authorities find that there are safety measures that you have not followed. Such a lawsuit could be very detrimental to your reputation as well as your finances. It should be noted that some cases drag for long in the courts. The best thing, therefore, is to ensure that there is prevention of such incidences.
Preparing for an Emergency
The right safety training can help you prepare for an emergency. Farmers should make an effort to place first-aid kits around the farm, in areas where an adult can easily assess them. The farmer should ensure that at least one employee is well-trained on handling the first aid and using it in the best way possible. The emergency number should be easily accessible to anyone who might need it. In addition to that, the employees should be aware of how to use first-aid kits in order to attend to emergency cases.
Farmer Field Schools
A number of schools have the advantage of having farms in their schools. However, the risks and threats in running such farms can be high. This is because the main purpose of the farm is to teach young people. Young people can be excited, and may not follow the recommended safety standards. When it comes to the farmers’ field farms, the teachers have a lot of responsibility in protecting the students. Most importantly, the teachers should lead by example in order to help the students follow optimal safety standards and be in a position to mediate when conflict occurs.
Resources for Safety Training in Farming
As a farmer, you need to evaluate the various resources which can be of much help in safety training in the field of farming. There are ample resources for this, and you just need to choose the right one. When you are looking for a training program, be sure to check if the program fits the specific needs of your farm or it is a general safety course. The good thing is that some courses are available online and distance should not be a barrier.
The following are the main resources for safety training in farming:
–OSHAcademy Safety Training: Occupational Safety & Health Training is concerned about the various cases of risks in the agricultural sector in the US. OSHA cites the year 2011 as a year of concern because 570 agricultural workers died due to various accidents. The highest cases of deaths were due to a tractor over-turn. OSHAcademy offers a strict but self-paced training. Employees who sign up for this program can either use the website or they can download the pdf. The training is targeted at new employees, safety committee members, trainers, laborers, farmers, and the management.
–Saif Oregon: Though this organization is based in Oregon, it offers both the physical classes as well as the online classes. It covers a variety of topics including irrigation safety and farm safety. In addition to that, the organization provides safety training as far as animals are concerned. Short courses provided by the organization are either in English or Spanish.
In Case of an Accident
Even with the best prevention methods, accidents are bound to happen. A farming accident can be a scary experience, and therefore, you should be prepared for any eventuality. Now that many farms are in remote areas, the action to take after an accident is limited. The following steps can help you manage a farm accident:
-It is important that you seek immediate medical attention. In this, time is of essence. Either way, whether it is an emergency or not, it is important that you see a doctor. If you do not see a doctor, and claim insurance later, things could get complicated for you.
-If you are an employee, you need to inform the employer about an accident. This will help in ensuring that appropriate action is taken, for instance, not using a farm machine until it has been repaired.
-As a farmer, preserve the evidence of the accident. In such cases, you are likely to be blamed. But if you preserve evidence, you are going to use the evidence to state that you had laid down the preventive measures only for the accident to occur
-If you are an employee, and you are injured at the farm, you need to liaise with the farmer on the possibility of getting insurance. Many of the farmers are well-prepared for such eventualities and they do ensure that all the employees are covered.
-In the case of an accident, it is important to inform the family. This is because the family can disclose the family history of the patient, and at the same time, disclose other relevant information which may be of much help
Towards the Future
Farming technology is going to improve drastically in the future. However, this does not in any way mean that the accidents are going to reduce. Reduction of farm accidents is going to be the responsibility of the government, the private sector, and the farmers themselves. Taking personal care is a matter of paramount importance. Some types of technology can come with a higher risk. This is more so if the farmer and the employees are not well trained on handling cutting edge technology.
Not every state makes it mandatory to take insurance for the workers. States should insist and make it compulsory to buy worker’s compensation insurance. States such as California are already a step ahead in this type of legislation, and other states should follow suit. What is important is to have a minimum standard of safety and to ensure that farmers have a culture of safety for their own good and the good of others.
Conclusion
If you take one safety training, then it is time that you thought about refresher courses after some time. This is because safety training is dynamic, and new things are going to come up. All the same, as a farmer, continuous safety training plays an important role in protecting all the stakeholders in the farm.
