The Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture at Iowa State University has developed a new resource designed to help answer questions about the quality and nutritional characteristics of organic foods and the production practices used in organic agriculture. Findings from more than 70 peer-reviewed, scientific articles about organic agriculture are summarized on a new web site at “Scientific Findings About Organic Agriculture.” The site organizes the research findings by topic, from animal health and welfare issues to information about poultry, meat, grains and fruit and vegetables. New studies will be added periodically as they become available.

Carmen Fernholz, Madison, 320-598-3010, is looking at viable alternative phosphorus sources for farm operations where animal manures are not available or where commercial NPK fertilizers are not an option. There will also be extensive discussion on the use of cover crops as soil nutrient builders as well as an effective weed management tool in a diversified rotation that includes corn, soybeans, winter wheat, Barley, oats, flax, dried field peas and alfalfa. The time and date are Wednesday, August 20, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. People are welcome to come earlier and stay later if this fits their schedule. This event is sponsored by the University of Minnesota, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and the USDA’s Risk Management Agency.

Don DeWeerd of Pipestone, MN is hosting an organic, on-farm demo on Monday, July 28, 2008 at 6:30pm. This event is being held in junction with the Coteau Ridge Chapter of the Sustainable Farming Association sponsored by the University of Minnesota and the USDA’s Risk Management Agency. There is no cost to attend. We will be touring Don DeWeerd’s farm and discussing such topics as rotation, green manures, soil health, and how to farm organically without livestock. Don DeWeerd has been farming organically since 1977. The location is 1826 70th Avenue, Pipestone, MN (please meet in the yard). For more information, contact Don at 507-825-2077.