agriculture
Darian hog farmer concerned about Swine Flu news impact on prices
Commodity traders pushed down the price of hogs yesterday and the trend continues so far today, which has Charlie Miller, owner of Willow Ridge Farms in Darien, just a little worried.
Miller's operation sells 200 to 250 hogs every week, and the worldwide recession had already sent prices down from 80 cents per pound two months ago to around 70 cents. Yesterday, prices dropped to 66 cents.
The reason? Panic over Swine Flu.
Never mind that health officials state flat out that the disease cannot be transmitted from eating food. Commodity traders -- who place bets on the anticipated future price of items -- believe the flu scare will deepen a trend of over supply in pork.
Miller said as of this morning, the cash market, the current price of hog meat, had not yet been effected.
"We have six families involved in ownership and operations of the farm," Miller said. "When things don't go well in the market, it impacts more people beyond just individual needs. And it also impacts everybody we do business with."
The National Pork Producers Council reiterated points made by the National Center for Disease Control that eating pork cannot transmit the disease to humans. Further, there is no evidence that the current strain was contracted by humans from pigs.
Miller noted that the current outbreak shouldn't even be called Swine Flu because it is a different strain with more in common with Avian Flu. "It should be called North American Flu," he said.
The World Health Organization has identified only 79 cases worldwide, and the only reported deaths have been in Mexico, according to ABC Radio News.
"Often times things like this happen and people get worried and emotional," Miller said. "I encourage people to use the information from groups such as the Center for Disease Control to make their food-buying decisions."
Photo Illustration courtesy Flickr member The Pug Father.
Genesee County Farm Bureau Scholarship Offered
Genesee County Farm Bureau will award a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating high school senior this year. The award will go to a Farm Bureau member’s son or daughter. The award decision will be based on scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, an essay and interest in agriculture. Students who are continuing their education beyond high school into a technical, 2-year or 4-year program are eligible. The award will be given in two segments: half at the beginning of the first semester and the second half at the successful completion of the first semester. The student will need a GPA of 2.0 or higher to receive the award.
Scholarship application forms are available from the Genesee County Farm Bureau office at 41 Liberty Street, Batavia or call 585-343-3489. The forms must be returned to the Farm Bureau office no later than May 31, 2009. The Farm Bureau Scholarship Committee will have the final decision on who is awarded the scholarship.
Genesee County dairy farmers being squeezed by low prices, high production costs
Local dairy farmers are hurting, according to Dean Norton, president of the New York Farm Bureau.
Prices have plummeted -- because of decreased demand for dairy products at home and abroad -- while costs have increased substantially.
Currently, milk is selling for $10.50 to $11.50 per 100 weight (about 8.5 gallons), while the cost of production is $15 and $16 per 100 weight.
Last year, milk sold for about $20 per 100 weight.
"The area economy stinks and it's a tough year," Norton said. "Receipts are down and individuals might be exiting the dairy industry."
Exports have dropped and domestic demand has been driven down as people eat out less during the recession, so there is shrunken demand for dairy products.
To help address the plunging prices, Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) has initiated a herd retirement program, which will help reduce the number of milk-producing cows and lower supply. Bids must be postmarked by May 1.
Dairy farmers throughout the nation are hurting according to The Rural Blog:
“The number of dairy cows being sent to slaughter has risen by about 20 percent from last year, as desperate farmers cull their herds and sell at fire-sale prices,” Sue Kirchoff writes for USA Today. “Adding to the problem, banks are less willing or able to extend farmers’ loan payments amid the financial turmoil.” John Murawski reports for the News & Observer in Raleigh, "Several dozen dairy farms in North Carolina are expected to go under this year." (Read more)
The National Dairy Federation has called on President Obama to aggressively address the problem, or thousands of jobs could be lost.
“There are several reasons for the implosion: oversupply, falling export demand and continued high prices for supplies such as feed,” Kirchoff explained. “The dairy sector in the past has been less prone to huge price swings than other areas of agriculture, but that’s changing as the industry relies more on the markets and less on government programs.”
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced a program to buy 200 million lbs. of nonfat dry milk surpluses for domestic low-income programs.
Neighboring Wyoming County is being especially hard hit by the downturn in the dairy market, according to a story by Tom Rivers.
The $60 million in reduced revenue is compared to 2008 prices, when dairies averaged about $17.50 per hundredweight. This year the prices are forecast to average $12.80 for the year. The prices are expected to climb above the current $11 level and top $14 in September, which is still below most farms' production costs.
The county's 47,970 cows, which outnumber the county's residents, produced $178.9 million worth of milk products in 2007, by far the most in the state.
"The market is saturated and these prices are likely to be with us until mid-summer," Norton said.
Noblehurst Farms in Pavilion on the scout for stolen calves
Cattle thieves were strung up by their necks once upon a time.
“Yes, they were,” Sarah Noble-Moag acknowledged softly with a smile.
Nowadays the law investigates the matter and hopefully justice is found, maybe even the livestock.
That's the hope of Noble-Moag and others at Noblehurst Farms, Inc., after thieves made off with three female Holstein calves, valued at about $500 each. Because they will become profitable milk cows, they are more valuable than bull calves.
Their pens along York Road in the Town of Pavilion were found empty mid-morning Monday. Genesee County Sheriff Deputy J.L. Baiocco is investigating the larceny.
“They'll be looking at the livestock market (auction), the one outside Pavilion toward Pearl Creek,” Noble-Moag said. “(The calves) are tagged in their ears, and the tags would probably be removed (by the thieves), but you'd still be able to tell they'd been tagged.”
Noblehurst Farms, whose corporate headquarters is in Linwood, also had several calves stolen three years ago. Genesee County sheriffs solved that case, Noble-Moag said.
The black and white female calves taken this week were among 615 cows at the farm. The calves raised to be milk cows are initially kept in individual pens to prevent the spread of disease. Once their immune systems are strong, they are put into small groups until they are two years old and ready for milking.
The individual pens are about the size of a large dog house and the calves are about the size of a large dog, 100 pounds. The calves are collared to a lead that hooks on top of the structure. The pens are only a few feet from the roadway.
What about security?
“We have a light out there at night,” Noble-Moag said.
PHOTO: Used for file photo purposes. It is not a photo of one of the stolen calves. Copyright Ian Hayhurst.
Sheriff's office investigating theft of calves in Pavilion
The Genesee County Sheriff's Office is investigating the theft of three Holstein calves from the Noble-Hurst Farm in Pavilion, according to a statement issued this morning. The theft occurred between 8 a.m. Sunday morning and 9 p.m. Monday night. The investigation is being led by Deputy J.L. Baiocco.
Sheep create traffic hazard on Galloway Road, other critters roam about
Four-legged critters had the Town of Batavia's public works department scurrying around Monday morning.
First there was the passel of sheep munching on trash in the front yard of a house at 2905 Galloway Road, creating a bit of a traffic hazard.
A dozen sheep and a lamb were spotted chomping garbage shortly after 10 this morning. A cow mooed encouragement from the back yard. Forty-five minutes later only crumbs remained.
A public works employee for the Town of Batavia showed up and said the foragers lived behind the two-story white house and had gotten out of the pen again. Usually the owner's home to round them up, the worker said.
The commotion caused the sheep to mosey away from the road and head toward the rear of the property.
A Sheriff's deputy arrived. They reported shortly thereafter that the wooly ones were shooed into their pen, which was then jerryrigged to stay shut. Hopefully.
Meanwhile, a skunk was lolling about in a park tennis court. On the scanner, authorities considered how best to remove it. One suggested shooting it. Another said it would be saved for lunch, prompting another to recommend roasting the skunk. None of the options were exercised.
The next critter call was about dogs in the road someplace, hampering traffic.
Tom Rivers to speak on ag series at Cornell Club dinner
Genesee-Orleans Cornell Club and CALS Alumni
Annual Spring Dinner
Wednesday April 1, 2009
Bohn’s Restaurant
5:45 pm Registration
6:30 pm Dinner
Our speaker for the evening Tom Rivers, a journalist from the Batavia Daily News, got his hands dirty writing his series on farm jobs. Addressing the farm labor issue head on, Tom spent the summer of 2008 working on area farms and communicating his experience through this series. The articles not only describe the daily tasks and farm workers’ perspectives, they have helped place a greater value on the need for a skilled and adequate work force for our farms in order to harvest a safe and local food supply. Reserve tickets by calling Hans Kunze @ 495-6797 by 3/29/09.
It's Maple Syrup Time
It’s that time of year again. As the days grow warmer and the nights stay cold, the sap starts to flow. Did you know that New York State is the third largest producer of maple syrup in the world? Maple producers are celebrating that fact at this year’s 14th Annual Maple Weekend™. This year the event takes place on March 21-22 and 28-29 from 10am - 4pm each day. Maple producers throughout New York State will open their sugarhouses to demonstrate the making of maple products "from the tree to your table." Almost 50 maple producers throughout
Western New York will participate. You can check this website for a list of participants: http://www.mapleweekend.com/locations.htm.
This free, family-oriented event gives you a chance to see how New York maple producers make some of the world's finest maple syrup and maple products. Visitors can see all aspects of maple making, from tapping the trees to get the sap, to boiling sap into maple syrup. Some producers will also demonstrate the making of maple syrup into other products including maple cream, maple cotton candy and maple sugar.
The public is encouraged to visit more than one farm as some producers use traditional methods while some employ new methods. Many of the farms will also have a variety of other activities including horse and wagon rides, snowshoeing, guided walks in the woods and kids' corners.
Mark your calendars for March 21-22 and 28-29, 2009 and take the family out to experience New York State maple!
Cornell Vegetable Meeting
Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program presents:
Fresh Market Vegetable Meeting
Thursday, March 19, 2009
8:30 am to 4:15 pm
Batavia Party House
5762 East Main Road, Stafford, NY 14143
4.75 DEC recertification credits available!
This meeting is geared towards smaller-scale vegetable growers
All growers and spray applicators welcome!
8:30 am REGISTRATION & BREAKFAST
Sign up for DEC credits
Check out exhibits
8:50 am Using the regional Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program as a resource, Steve Reiners, NYSAES & Julie Kikkert, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (15 min)
9:05 am Pest management in fresh market potatoes and variety selection for end use and pest resistance, Carol MacNeil, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (30 min)
9:35 am Recommendations for controlling downy mildew, powdery mildew and Phythophora blight in vinecrops, Robert Hadad and Judson Reid, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (45 min)
10:20 am Coffee Break, stretch, interact with vegetable specialists (10 min)
10:30 am Pest management of fresh market onions, Christy Hoepting, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (30 min)
11:00 am Introduction to pest management in organic vegetable production, Robert Hadad, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (60 min)
12:00 noon Hot Buffet Lunch, check out the exhibits, interact with vegetable specialists (60 min)
1:00 pm Introduction to high tunnel vegetable production and pest management featuring tomatoes, peppers and English cucumbers, Judson Reid and Katie Klotzbach, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (50 min)
1:50 pm Weed management in cabbage, peas, beets, carrots and beans, Julie Kikkert, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (45 min)
2:35 pm Insect management in cole crops featuring worm, thrips and swede midge, Christy Hoepting, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (30 min)
3:05 pm Coffee Break, stretch, interact with vegetable specialists (10 min)
3:15 pm New marketing strategies and produce auctions, Robert Hadad and Judson Reid, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (30 min)
3:45 pm Food safety for small-scale vegetable growers, Robert Hadad, Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program (30 min)
4:15 pm Fill out evaluation forms
Pick up DEC credits
Safe trip home!
$30 for enrollees of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program
$40 if not enrolled, enrollment opportunities available at the door.
To register contact Kim Amey at 585-343-3040 ext 112 by March 12.
Spring events at the Extension
From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:
March 6 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm - Winter Dairy Management - Dairy Modernization
Held at the Batavia Party House, Stafford, NY
Topics covered:
>Business Planning for a Successful Project
>Is your Farmstead Master Plan Still Workable?
>Renovating the Old Free-stall for Milking Cows, Heifers or Special Needs
>Replacement Parlor Options (including Robots & Manure handling)
>Evaluating environmental issues on your farm
For more information contact Cathy at 585-343-3040 x138. Cost is $20 which includes lunch.
March 10 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm - NYS Dry Bean Meeting
Held at BW's Restaurant, Davis' Countryside Meadows Golf Course, 11070 Perry Rd., Pavilion
For more information contact Carol MacNeil at 585-394-3977 x406 or crm6@cornell.edu. For those enrolled in the Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program cost is $20 pre-registration ($25 walk-in). For those NOT enrolled - $30 pre-registration ($35 walk-in). 2 DEC and CCA credits have been requested. Listen to 1180 WHAM AM Radio in case of bad weather for cancellation notice.
March 11 from 9am to 11am - Weed Management Workshop for Commercial Pea Growers.
Held at Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road in Batavia.
Dr. Robin Bellinder, Cornell will be the presenter. DEC/CCA credits available. Cost: $5.00 per person. To register or for more information, contact Julie Kikkert, 585-394-3977 ext. 404 or jrk2@cornell.edu.
March 16 to 20 - Ag Literacy Week.
Ag Literacy Week unites communities and schools. Volunteers bring New York agriculture into local schools by sharing a special story and leading educational activities. Volunteer in your community and get this year's book donated to your school or library. This year the program will highlight the NYS Apple Industry and with the help from the NYS Apple Association and their generous donation will also mark the first year in which the book that is used will be written by New York Ag in the Classroom (NYAITC) staff. This book will be the first in a series that will highlight New York Agriculture and is titled: The Empire State Investigator: The Applesauce Bandit. For more information on volunteering or to sponsor a book for Ag Literacy Day, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at bbs28@cornell.edu or you can visit the Ag in the Classroom website at: www.nyaged.org/aitc.
March 20 - Registration deadline for Incubation and Embryology Project for the Classroom
Welcome to the Genesee County 4-H Incubation and Embryology Project. This interdisciplinary project is designed to provide youth with a “hands on” experience while classroom teachers have the opportunity to satisfy science, math and ELA core requirements. If you have questions or are interested about the Incubation and Embryology project, please contact Barb Sturm at (585)343-3040 x122 or via email bbs28@cornell.edu.
March 21 - 7th Annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner
Held at the Alexander Fire Hall, Route 98 in Alexander, NY. Sponsors of the event include Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, Genesee County Farm Bureau and Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District. This extremely popular community tradition has become firmly established as a festive, fun filled get-together, and an opportunity to come together and socialize before the beginning of another growing season. This event is sold out!
March 26 1pm to 4pm -Regional Berry Workshop - Pruning and its Impact on Pest Management
Livingston County CCE, Mt. Morris.
Agenda: Pruning Blueberries and Brambles
Pruning and Pests - A Closer Look
Sprayer Calibration's easier to do and more important than you think
NYS DEC pesticide applicator credits will be available for categories 1A, 10, and 22. Registration fee is $10. To register contact Jennifer at 585-658-3250. For more information call David Thorp, 585-658-3250 x109 or email dlt8@cornell.edu.
March 27 - Entries due locally to Barb Sturm for the "Be Aware of NY Agriculture" Contest
The Be Aware of New York Agriculture Contest is a great way to expose students (Pre-K - 6th grade) to agriculture and the food system, and to meet the New York State Learning Standards in your classroom. Students can learn more about where food comes from and why it is important that they understand agriculture in New York State, while creating art and writing projects.
The contest is divided by grade level categories and statewide winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 2 Honorable Mentions) are selected for each grade level.
* 1st place individual for each grade level is awarded a $50 U.S. Savings Bond.
* 1st place classroom and school receive agriculture-related books and /or videos.
* 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners receive T-shirts.
All awardees receive Certificates of Recognition. Winning entries will be exhibited at the Great New York State Fair. If you are interested in more information about this contest or need an entry from, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or check out the New York Ag in the Classroom website at : www.nyaged.org/aitc.
March 28 - Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Dairy Bowl Contest
The 2009 Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Dairy Bowl Contest will be held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Ontario County, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua. Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m., Contest will start at 10:00 a.m. The primary objective of this event is to provide an educational experience for youth enrolled in a 4-H dairy project to demonstrate their knowledge of dairy related subject matter in a competitive setting where attitudes of friendliness and fairness prevail. County Entries are due March 6, 2009. If you are interested in more information about this contest, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at: bbs28@cornell.edu.
March 28 - Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Horse Extravaganza
The 2009 Finger Lakes Region 4-H Horse Extravaganza will take place at Canandaigua Middle School, Canandaigua, NY. Local youth wil demonstrate their horse knowledge in Hippology and Horse Bowl Contests. The primary objective of this contest is to provide an opportunity for Region II youth to demonstrate the breadth of their equine knowledge in a competitive setting where attitudes of friendliness and fairness prevail. We hope that this contest will generate a rewarding experience for the 4-H members. If you are interested in more information about this contest, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at: bbs28@cornell.edu.
April 9 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee & Dessert Series - "Organic Vegetable Gardening"
Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts. Pre-registration is required. Organic Vegetable Gardening will be taught by Dale Jacobs, Master Gardener and owner of an organic fruit and vegetable business "Crooked Creek" Farms. Vegetables should be part of everyone's diet. If you don't want to spend a little more for those organically grown and sold in the supermarket, perhaps you should consider planting your own garden. It is very easy and even a project your children can join in on and have fun doing. If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.
April 16 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee and Dessert Series - "Annuals and Bedding Plants"
Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts. Pre-registration is required. Christine Quataert, Master Gardener will be talking about annuals and bedding plants, with their seemingly infinite variety of flower colors and plant forms fit into almost any landscape situation They provide the necessary touch of color to an often drab landscape. These plants can be grown in containers to add a splash of color to a porch, deck or patio area. They can also be enjoyed as fresh or dry cut flowers, as well as be a very rewarding hobby. If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.
April 23 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee & Dessert Series - "Spring Birds" (Back by popular demand) Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts. Pre-registration is required. Back by popular demand, Jan Beglinger, Master Gardener and member of the Buffalo Audubon Society, will be talking about Spring Birds. Spring brings changes at the bird-feeder, but even more exciting birds that visit other parts of the backyard. Spring often starts with the departure of old friends that have spent the winter with us. Do you recognize the spring birds that show up at your feeder? Are they different from the birds you see in the summer, fall and winter? Our “birding” expert master gardener will help you identify different birds and show you how to attract them to your yard.If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.
April 25 - 4-H Cloverbud Round Up
If you are interested in more information or to register, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.
May 1 - Deadline for 4-H Giant Pumpkin Contest
The contest is open to any 4-H'er/4-H Family in Genesee County. If you want to have fun, learn about horticulture, and challenge yourself, join 4-H'ers who will grow a giant or tiny pumpkin in spring/summer (125 days to grow) in home gardens or in container gardens all over the county. We will be using giant and small seeds. The Giant variety is "Dill's Atlantic Giant" or tiny pumpkin varieties includes "Baby Boo" or " Jack-Be-Little". You can buy your own seeds or we can provide you with them. Educational materials will also be provided to each participant. Weigh-in will be in September (location to be determined). Register by May 1st. If you are interested in more information or to register, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at: ame29@cornell.edu.
2009 Agriculture Enrollment - This service provides subscribers with up-to-date information on trends in the agricultural sector by utilizing research-based knowledge from Cornell University. Included in this service, at no charge, are direct mailings of "emergency information" for commodities of interest to you and voting privileges at the Extension Association's annual meeting to determine organization leadership. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at (585) 343-3040 ext. 126 or visit the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia for more information and enrollment packets.
4-H Participants - Please check the Extension website and refer to the monthly calendar for new and on-going events and deadlines. If you are interested in joining the 4-H program contact Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
4-H Local Government Intern Program - Designed for high school Juniors & Seniors. Orientation meeting 7 pm on February 2nd at the Old County Courthouse in Batavia. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130.
Coffee and Dessert Series - If you want to socialize and learn about gardening, why not consider participating in the Coffee and Dessert Programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. This is the fourth year of this popular program of classes presented by Community Educator Gail Culver and Genesee County Master Gardeners. During the program participants will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with desserts homemade by the Master Gardeners. For more information and to register call Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
Eat SMART New York - This free, confidential program for food stamp participants and limited income individuals and families explores parenting strategies, healthy meal options, and ways to stretch food dollars. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call the nutrition and parenting education program at 343-3040, ext. 134 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
Master Gardeners - Get answers on everything from landscaping to pest management. Free service. Call 343-3040, ext. 127, 10 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday or e-mail geneseemg@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.
Master Gardener Home Diagnostic Service - Genesee County Master Gardeners conduct on-site visits to diagnose plant and pest problems, test soil pH, advise homeowners on gardening practices and more. Cost is $25 for the first hour and $15 for each additional hour. Fee includes informational packets, soil testing and diagnostic results. To schedule an appointment, contact Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.
Master Gardener Speakers' Bureau - Providing talks on a variety of topics, such as wildlife, local bird life, organic gardening, landscaping and more. Programs can be tailored to meet audience needs. Fee is $50, or $25 for non-profits in Genesee and surrounding counties. For more information call Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
Changes Regarding Slow-Moving-Vehicles (SMV)
Effective January 1, 2009, the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law states - "Farm machinery … designed to operate at 25 mph or less whether self-propelled or used in combination, shall each separately display a slow-moving-vehicle emblem." The law prior to 1/1/09 requires an SMV emblem on either the tractor or the vehicle being towed, but not both. The intent of the new law is to improve visibility of farm equipment operated on public highways. The towed vehicle can block the SMV emblem on back of the tractor.
Also effective 1/1/09 - "It shall be unlawful to operate, drive, or park self-propelled agricultural equipment on any public highway or street in this state, during the period from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise and during other times as visibility for a distance of one thousand feet ahead of or behind such agricultural equipment is not clear, unless such agricultural equipment is equipped with lamps of a type approved by the commissioner which are lighted and in good working condition." This law codifies in the statute a Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) existing regulation. Lights and flashers on farm equipment will make you more visible to traffic in both directions.
Required Lighting Equipment for self-propelled Agricultural Equipment
Item
Number and Color
Location
Headlamps
Two, white
Front, same level, as far apart as practicable
Tail lamps
One, red
Rear, as far to the left as practicable
Combined hazard warning and turn signal lamps
Two, amber
At least 1.1 meters (42 inches) high, same level, as far apart as practicable, visible front and rear
Rear reflectors
Two, red
Rear, same level, as far apart as practicable
For questions about the NY State Vehicle and Traffic law contact your local New York State Police Troop Traffic Section.
PRIDE OF NEW YORK “BUY LOCAL” ADVERTISING FUNDS AVAILABLE
Grants to Cost-Share Advertising & Promotion; Available First-Come, First-Serve Basis
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today announced the availability of funding for a pilot Pride of New York “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Program. Members of the Pride of New York Program can receive up to $5,000 on a first-come, first-serve basis to advertise and promote specialty crop food and agricultural products grown or processed in New York State.
“New Yorkers have some of the best products grown or processed right here in their backyard, yet unfortunately many don’t know where to find them,” the Commissioner said. “I am pleased that the Department was able to secure federal funds for this important program that will help consumers identify local products and help the State’s specialty crop producers build awareness, preference and sales of New York products across the State. I encourage all Pride of New York members to take advantage of this great opportunity.”
The Pride of New York’s “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Grant Program, a pilot project of the Department, provides up to $5,000 to create and develop promotional messages, purchase media time, print space or signage or pursue other promotional activities. Members can choose from a wide range of advertising and marketing options that best fit their budget and target audience, in multiple media markets. Cooperative advertising funds will be awarded on a first-come, first serve basis. The program options include:
· Pre-Negotiated and/or Custom-Built Television Ads: Includes professional production of a 23-second TV commercial with a 7-second Pride of New York tag at the end.
· Pre-Negotiated and/or Custom-Built Radio Ads: Includes professional production of a 45-second radio spot that ends with a 15-second Pride of New York tag.
· Print: Pride of New York will cost-share approved print advertisements and placement in a variety of consumer publications.
· Point of Purchase and Promotional Items: Pride of New York will cost share approved point of purchase and promotional item such as: signs, bags, banners, product packaging, brochures, flags and rack cards.
Funding for the Pride of New York “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Program is provided through the 2006 and 2007 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The Department is utilizing 2008 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grants to cost-share third party Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) audits and to assist producers with developing farm food safety plans.
The Pride of New York program is the State’s marketing program for food and agricultural products grown or processed in New York State. The program was created to help consumers identify fresh, high-quality New York State products where they shop. The Pride of New York also assists farmers and food processors in branding their products by using the Pride of New York emblem, and encourages retailers and restaurants to highlight the New York State products they use and sell by displaying the emblem. To find out more about the Pride of New York Program, call 1-800-554-4501 or visit http://www.prideofny.com.
For more information on the Pride of New York Cooperative Advertising Program or other promotional opportunities, please contact the Pride of New York Program at 1-800-554-4501 or visit the Department’s website at http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us and click on “Funding Opportunities.”
A visit to Porter Farms in Elba: Working on the farm in winter
On this particular Wednesday morning in February, a thermometer posted outside the School for the Blind in downtown Batavia reads an air temperature of nearly five degrees below zero. Cold enough to freeze the spit in your mouth before you can even get out the words: cold enough...
Cold enough that the steering wheel on my '93 rustbucket of a wagon needs more coaxing than usual to make a full left turn. Still. I make it to Porter Farms whole. Shivering, but whole. I'm not sure what to expect, though I've got an image of farmhands tucked into woolen socks, sitting around the fireplace thumbing seed catalogues and dissertations on soil conservation. I've got what you might call a novelistic imagination that doesn't often sync up with the way things really are.
Of course, there's too much work to be done to sit around the fireplace.
The farm's patriarch, Mike Porter, looks over paperwork in the cab of his pickup. He's got the engine running for heat. Inside the barn behind where he's parked, the hundred or more sheep mill about in their stalls, caterwauling like the dullards that Porter assures me they are.
After he shuffles a few of them out into the bleak white light of day, they start to cough. Agitated from the rush to get outside, they stir up some of the dust in the feed they just sucked down. They sound like old men, hacking up a lifetime's worth of lung tar.
I ask Mike what life is like on the farm in the middle of a desolate upstate winter. He shrugs. It's much the same as what life is like on the farm in the middle of a grueling humid upstate summer. Only, you get home by 6 o'clock instead of 10 o'clock.
"We're busy in the winter, but not as busy," he says. "I don't get here until between seven and eight, and I'm home by six. That's a short day."
Winter work is much like work the rest of the year for Mike. Only he's not in the fields pulling or planting crops in addition to doing everything else he does. As I said, I came expecting quiet study indoors while the fields outside crackled in the frost. Not so.
"We have livestock," he says, "so we're busy every day of the year."
They've got lambs and beef cattle. They're also still packing and shipping onions and cabbage. Plus they'll be starting the greenhouses in a few weeks. Then there's the work on the farm equipment that is about due to start... and the renewal for the organic certification... and all the planning. Always planning. Planning on what to plant, when to plant it, where to plant it.
So yeah. They're not sitting around darning socks and learning about soil erosion. "It's always a work in progress," he says. "If you stand still, you go backwards."
Porter Farms also maintains a Community-Supported Agriculture program that keeps folks busy throughout the year. They're about to start their 14th season. They wrapped up last year with 650 members. A CSA program allows folks in the community—some join from Rochester and Buffalo, too—to pay a lump sum to receive 22 weeks of farm fresh produce. They can pick up a bag of mixed vegetables from the farm every week from about the middle of June up until the week before Thanksgiving.
They grow everything for the program: beets, bell peppers, poblano peppers, summer squash, pumpkins, beans, lettuce, roma, heirloom and sun gold tomatoes, swiss chard, butterscotch melons, cucumbers... I could go on. You get about 10 to 12 pouns per bag. Plus they give you recipe suggestions and a weekly newsletter about the selection.
Mike's daughters take care of most of the work for the CSA program. He's busy with the livestock and the day-to-day running of the farm. A couple times of month, he makes the trek down to New Holland, Penn., where most of his sheep go to auction. Those are the really long days, he says. Some nights he may even end up staying over and driving back in the morning... to start it all again.
If you want to find out more about the CSA program, please check out the Web site for Porter Farms, which has all the info you need on how it works and how you can do it.
And now... some sheep butts for your viewing pleasure:
Census of Agriculture Shows Growing Diversity in U.S. Farming
From the United States Dept. of Agriculture:
WASHINGTON, Feb. 4, 2009 – The number of farms in the United States has grown 4 percent and the operators of those farms have become more diverse in the past five years, according to results of the 2007 Census of Agriculture released today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).
The 2007 Census counted 2,204,792 farms in the United States, a net increase of 75,810 farms. Nearly 300,000 new farms have begun operation since the last census in 2002. Compared to all farms nationwide, these new farms tend to have more diversified production, fewer acres, lower sales and younger operators who also work off-farm.
In the past five years, U.S. farm operators have become more demographically diverse. The 2007 Census counted nearly 30 percent more women as principal farm operators. The count of Hispanic operators grew by 10 percent, and the counts of American Indian, Asian and Black farm operators increased as well.
The latest census figures show a continuation in the trend towards more small and very large farms and fewer mid-sized operations. Between 2002 and 2007, the number of farms with sales of less than $2,500 increased by 74,000. The number of farms with sales of more than $500,000 grew by 46,000 during the same period.
Census results show that the majority of U.S. farms are smaller operations. More than 36 percent are classified as residential/lifestyle farms, with sales of less than $250,000 and operators with a primary occupation other than farming. Another 21 percent are retirement farms, which have sales of less than $250,000 and operators who reported they are retired.
In addition to looking at farm numbers, operator demographics and economic aspects of farming, the Census of Agriculture delves into numerous other areas, including organic, value-added, and specialty production, all of which are on the rise.
The 2007 Census found that 57 percent of all farmers have internet access, up from 50 percent in 2002. For the first time in 2007, the census also looked at high-speed Internet access. Of those producers accessing the Internet, 58 percent reported having a high-speed connection.
Other "firsts" in the 2007 Census include questions about on-farm energy generation, community-supported agriculture arrangements and historic barns.
The Census of Agriculture, conducted every five years, is a complete count of the nation's farms and ranches and the people who operate them. It provides the only source of uniform, comprehensive agricultural data for every county in the nation. Census results are available online at www.agcensus.usda.gov .
Source: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/02/0036.xml
Agriculture Literacy Week: March 16-20
From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:
The fourth annual New York State Agriculture Literacy Week (formerly Ag Literacy Day) has been scheduled for March 16-20, 2009, which will coincide with National Agriculture Week.
This year the program will highlight the NYS Apple Industry. Volunteers from around the county, many of whom are closely tied to the agriculture industry, will visit elementary school classrooms to read The Empire State Investigator:The Applesauce Bandit. The books will then be donated to each school library courtesy of generous donations by Genesee County Farm Bureau, local agricultural businesses, and individual donors.
Barb Sturm, coordinator from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, said “Ag Literacy Day gives schools and industry volunteers a perfect opportunity to focus on agriculture awareness, especially in a region where agriculture provides a livelihood for so many people. We hope that by talking to students about how food gets from the farm to their plates, they’ll grow to appreciate all the people, processes and businesses contributing every single day to the industry that provides us with almost everything we eat, use and wear.”
New York Ag Literacy Week is a statewide educational effort organized by New York Agriculture in the Classroom (www.nyaged.org) with help from many agencies and organizations, including Cornell Cooperative Extension, New York Farm Bureau, and the NYS Apple Association.
For more information to become a volunteer reader or to sponsor the purchase of books, contact Barb Sturm by February 11, 2009, at Cornell Cooperative Extension at 420 East Main Street, Batavia, 343-3040, ext. 122, e-mail: bbs28@cornell.edu, or visit our website at: http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu.
Stimulas package includes $27 billion for rural programs
The Farm Gate reports that $27 billion of Barack Obama's stimulus package is slated for rural programs.
The package includes $200 million for public safety, libraries and education; Another $500 million will be used to guarantee loans for rural housing; Rural community drinking water systems will receive $1.5 billion; $100 million will be used to spur $2 billion in loans and grants for rural businesses.
Click the link above for more details.
(via the Rural Blog)
Video: Cooking with the Dairy Princess: Chicken Quesadillas
This is a perfect recipe for a great Superbowl appetizer!
Winter events at the Extension
From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County will be offering a variety of upcoming events. More information can also be found on our website - http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu or by stopping by the Extension Center at 420 E. Main Street in Batavia.
Tuesdays, January 6th through February 10th - Positive Parenting Series - 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia. Nutrition and Parenting Educator Mariellen Woodward-DeFelice will teach the following classes: Anger in the Family, Responsibility and Your Children, Disciplining Your Children, Setting Limits and Expectations, Winning Ways to Talk with Kids, and Family Enrichment. The series is offered at no cost to Genesee county residents and at a nominal fee for residents of surrounding counties. The next series will begin February 24th. For more information or to register contact Mariellen by phone at 343-3040, ext. 105, e-mail mew33@cornell.edu, or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 E. Main Street in Batavia.
January 28th from 8:30am to 3:30 pm - 2009 Corn Expo
Waterloo Holiday Inn, Waterloo, NY.
Guest Speaker - Dr. Danny Klinefelter Professor and Extension Economist, Texas A&M University specializes in agricultural finance and management development. He has worked with some of the best and brightest farm business men and women throughout the United States. His presentations are featured through Farm Futures' Seminar Series. You will not want to miss this very dynamic thought provoking speaker. Click HERE for the agenda and registration form.
January 28, 2009 - Ontario County Maple Beginners Workshop
For more information contact Russell Welser, Cornell Cooperative Extension Ontario County, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585.394.3977
January 29, 2009 - Farmland Protection and Purchase of Development Rights
7:00 to 9:00 pm Genesee County Building II, 3837 West Main Street Rd., Batavia
This workshop is designed for community leaders, farmers, grant writers, town planners, town attorneys, appraisers and anyone with an interest in farmland protection in our region. The workshop provides a comprehensive review of the process for creating successful Purchase of Development Rights projects and programs in your communities including a review of grant applications and case scenarios. Please RSVP to Holly McAllister, Genesee County Planning Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5467 or hmcallister@co.genesee.ny.us.
February 2nd at 7 p.m. - 4-H Local Government Intern Program.
To be held at the Old County Courthouse, Batavia, NY. This orientation program is designed for For Juniors and Seniors in High School. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130. Click HERE for more information.
February 4 from Noon to 4:45 pm - Greenhouse Growers Seminar
Held at CCE-Monroe County, 249 Highland Avenue, Rochester.
Topics include: nutrient management and its role in growth regulation, pest and disease management, pest management, plant disease management and greenhouse sanitation. Registration begins at noon the day of the event. Program cost is $15. Contact Karen at 585.461.1000x225 or email ksk8@cornell.edu to register. Click HERE for more information.
February 4, 2009 - WNY Soybean/Small Grains Congress
Batavia Party House, Stafford. Click HERE for more info or contact Cathy Wallace at (585) 343-3040 x138.
February 10 - Becker Forum on Ag Labor
Holiday Inn Liverpool, Syracuse, NY. Contact NYSVGA@twcny.rr.com.
Proactive Approaches to Immigration and Workforce Issues. A variety of speakers will present at the Forum providing their unique perspectives on the changes occurring in agricultural labor, and will also provide practical and positive approaches for agricultural employers to apply with regards to public perception of the immigration issue and human resource management. Pre-registration required. For more information go to http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/hort/expo/
February 11 and 12 - Empire State Fruit and Vegetable Expo
Oncenter Convention Center, Syracuse, NY. Contact NYSVGA@twcny.rr.com.
Two full days of tree fruit, vegetable and berry educational sessions including information on production, pest management, organic marketing, soil health and more! Pesticide Credits and CCA Credits will be available. The Expo trade show will feature the newest products, services and specialized equipment for the fruit and vegetable industries. Trade show sessions will be held in the exhibit hall both days. Contact the NYS Vegetable Growers Assoc. at 315-687-5734. For program information go to http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/hort/expo/.
Beginning on February 14th from 8 a.m. - Noon - NYS Tractor and Farm Machinery Safety Course.
To be held at various dealerships in Genesee County. Course instruction and intensive training in tractor and farm machinery safety, leading to certification is being planned for Saturday mornings at various dealerships in Genesee County. Classes include general tractor maintenance, safe farm equipment operation and safety issues in general. This training is offered only once a year and is for youth ages 14-16. For more information on this program contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106. Click HERE for more information.
February 16 - Small Fruit IPM Scout Training
10 am to 3 pm at CCE Wyoming County, 401 North Main St., Warsaw
This is the first of 4 sessions on small fruit production practices. Sessions 1 & 2 will be held as classroom sessions while sessions 3 & 4 will be held at Green Acre Farm in Rochester. Click here for the brochure. Contact Lutie Batt at 585-786-2251 for more information. Registration deadline is February 6. Cost is $75 for all 4 sessions.
February 18 - Online Courses for Beginning Farmers
The NY Beginning Farmer Project announces the next round of online courses designed to help plan new farm enterprises. Starting February 18, “Taking Stock: Evaluating Your Resources and Choosing an Enterprise†is 5 weeks long. The second course, “Marketing and Profits: Making Money Selling What You Grow†is 6 weeks long and begins March 18. Both courses are designed to stand alone, or build on each other by being taken back-to-back. They will be taught by educators from Cornell Cooperative Extension, and both courses will incorporate real-time interaction with webinars. Register soon as space is limited. Cost is $100 per course or $150 for both.
See http://beginningfarmers.cce.cornell.edu/index.php?page=onlinecourse for computer requirements and registration details.
February 20, 2009 from 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. Crop Insurance Meeting
Cornell Cooperative Extension - Niagara County, 4-H Training Center 4487 Lake Avenue (Rt. 78 just north of Lockport)
Agenda:
10:30 am Welcome/introductions: Paul Lehman, CCE, Extension Educator
10:40 Crop insurance policies with March 15th sales closing deadlines, such as corn (IIP, APH, CRC, GRP), soybeans, dry beans, grain sorghum, oats, processing snap beans and oats. Adjusted Gross revenue-Lite (AGR-L). Minimal treatment of specialty crops - Charles Koines, Consultant
11:25 Break
11:30 Comments from crop insurance representatives
11:40 SURE disaster program - Farm Bill provisions - Jim McNeil, Director, FSAUSDA,Niagara County; Jim Bittner, Singer Farms
12:30 pm Program ends - lunch
Lunch will be available for those who contact Karen (716-433-8839 x221, or kmk27@cornell.edu) by Feb. 19th.
February 21st from 9 am to NOON - 4-H Public Presentations.
To be held at Byron-Bergen Middle School. This event will help 4-Her's develop poise, self-confidence, organizational skills, ability to think ahead and become more comfortable speaking in front of others. Family and friends are welcome to attend this event. For more information on this program contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122.
February 23 - The First Annual Farmer-Chef Conference
This day long conference will offer Western New York's chefs and other food industry professionals the opportunity to network with local farmers and artisan food. Details are pending. For more information visit their website at http://www.fieldandforknetwork.com/ To receive up-to-date information about the Farmer-Chef Conference, please send your email address to FieldandFork@gmail.com
March 6 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm - Winter Dairy Management - Dairy Modernization
Held at the Batavia Party House, Stafford, NY
Topics covered:
>Business Planning for a Successful Project
>Is your Farmstead Master Plan Still Workable?
> Renovating the Old Free-stall for Milking Cows, Heifers or Special Needs
> Replacement Parlor Options (including Robots & Manure handling)
>Evaluating environmental issues on your farm
For more information contact Cathy at 585-343-3040 x138. Click HERE for the registration form. Cost is $20 which includes lunch.
March 10 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm - NYS Dry Bean Meeting
Held at BW's Restaurant, Davis' Countryside Meadows Golf Course, 11070 Perry Rd., Pavilion
For more information contact Carol MacNeil at 585-394-3977 x406 or crm6@cornell.edu. For those enrolled in the Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program cost is $20 pre-registration ($25 walk-in). For those NOT enrolled - $30 pre-registration ($35 walk-in). 2 DEC and CCA credits have been requested. Click HERE for the agenda and registration form. Listen to 1180 WHAM AM Radio in case of bad weather for cancellation notice.
March 11th from 9am to 11am - Weed Management Workshop for Commercial Pea Growers.Held at Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road in Batavia.
Dr. Robin Bellinder, Cornell will be the presenter. DEC/CCA credits available. Cost: $5.00 per person. To register or for more information, contact Julie Kikkert, 585-394-3977 ext. 404 or jrk2@cornell.edu.
March 16th to 20th - Ag Literacy Week.
Ag Literacy Week unites communities and schools. Volunteers bring New York agriculture into local schools by sharing a special story and leading educational activities. Volunteer in your community and get this year's book donated to your school or library.
This year the program will highlight the NYS Apple Industry and with the help from the NYS Apple Association and their generous donation will also mark the first year in which the book that is used will be written by New York Ag in the Classroom (NYAITC) staff. This book will be the first in a series that will highlight New York Agriculture and is titled: The Empire State Investigator: The Applesauce Bandit.
For more information on volunteering or to sponsor a book for Ag Literacy Day, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at bbs28@cornell.edu. Click HERE for more information.
March 21st - 7th Annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner
Held at the Alexander Fire Hall, Route 98 in Alexander, NY. Sponsors of the event include Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, Genesee County Farm Bureau and Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District. This extremely popular community tradition has become firmly established as a festive, fun filled get-together, and an opportunity to come together and socialize before the beginning of another growing season. Open to the general public. Tickets are $25 per person or $230 for a table of 10. Only 400 tickets will be sold and no tickets will be sold at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets call Michelle at 343-3040, ext. 107.
March 26 1pm to 4pm -Regional Berry Workshop - Pruning and its Impact on Pest Management
Livingston County CCE, Mt. Morris.
Agenda: Pruning Blueberries and Brambles
Pruning and Pests - A Closer Look
Sprayer Calibration's easier to do and more important than you think
NYS DEC pesticide applicator credits will be available for categories 1A, 10, and 22. Registration fee is $10. To register contact Jennifer at 585-658-3250. For more information call David Thorp, 585-658-3250 x109 or email dlt8@cornell.edu. Click HERE for the registration form.
Entries due locally to Barb Sturm March 27th - Be Aware of NY Agriculture Contest
The Be Aware of New York Agriculture Contest is a great way to expose students (Pre-K - 6th grade) to agriculture and the food system, and to meet the New York State Learning Standards in your classroom. Students can learn more about where food comes from and why it is important that they understand agriculture in New York State, while creating art and writing projects.
The contest is divided by grade level categories and statewide winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 2 Honorable Mentions) are selected for each grade level.
* 1st place individual for each grade level is awarded a $50 U.S. Savings Bond.
* 1st place classroom and school receive agriculture-related books and /or videos.
* 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners receive T-shirts.
All awardees receive Certificates of Recognition. Winning entries will be exhibited at the Great New York State Fair.
If you are interested in more information about this contest or need an entry from, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or check out the New York Ag in the Classroom website at : www.nyaged.org/aitc.
2009 Agriculture Enrollment - This service provides subscribers with up-to-date information on trends in the agricultural sector by utilizing research-based knowledge from Cornell University. Included in this service, at no charge, are direct mailings of "emergency information" for commodities of interest to you and voting privileges at the Extension Association's annual meeting to determine organization leadership. The deadline for enrollment in the 2009 agriculture information service is February 1, 2009. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at (585) 343-3040 ext. 126 or visit the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia for more information and enrollment packets.
4-H Participants - Please check the Extension website and refer to the monthly calendar for new and on-going events and deadlines. If you are interested in joining the 4-H program contact Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
4-H Local Government Intern Program - Designed for high school Juniors & Seniors. Orientation meeting 7 pm on February 2nd at the Old County Courthouse in Batavia. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130.
Coffee and Dessert Series - If you want to socialize and learn about gardening, why not consider participating in the Coffee and Dessert Programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. This is the fourth year of this popular program of classes presented by Community Educator Gail Culver and Genesee County Master Gardeners. During the program participants will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with desserts homemade by the Master Gardeners. For more information and to register call Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
Eat SMART New York - This free, confidential program for food stamp participants and limited income individuals and families explores parenting strategies, healthy meal options, and ways to stretch food dollars. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call the nutrition and parenting education program at 343-3040, ext. 134 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
Master Gardeners - Get answers on everything from landscaping to pest management. Free service. Call 343-3040, ext. 127, 10 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday or e-mail geneseemg@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.
Master Gardener Home Diagnostic Service - Genesee County Master Gardeners conduct on-site visits to diagnose plant and pest problems, test soil pH, advise homeowners on gardening practices and more. Cost is $25 for the first hour and $15 for each additional hour. Fee includes informational packets, soil testing and diagnostic results. To schedule an appointment, contact Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.
Master Gardener Speakers' Bureau - Providing talks on a variety of topics, such as wildlife, local bird life, organic gardening, landscaping and more. Programs can be tailored to meet audience needs. Fee is $50, or $25 for non-profits in Genesee and surrounding counties. For more information call Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.
Proactive Approaches to Immigration and Workforce Issues
The 2009 Becker Forum: Proactive Approaches to Immigration and Workforce Issues – February 10, 2009
The Becker Forum is held in conjunction with the 2009 Empire State Fruit & Vegetable Expo and will be held at the Holiday Inn, Liverpool, NY.
Featuring sessions on:
Immigration Reform with a New President and a New Congress
Social Security No-match Letters
Immigration and Agriculture: Changing Public Perceptions
How to be a Better Boss
Strategies to Support Agricultural Workers
Creating a High Performance Business culture
Leaders Forum: How to Impact future Immigration Legislation
A brochure of the conference can be found at: http://www.nysvga.org/pdf/2009%20Expo%20Program.pdf.
For more information on the Forum and to register visit: www.nysvga.org or call 315-687-5734.
