Viable Alternative Phosphorus Sources for Farm Operations

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 and the USDA’s Risk Management Agency.

Don DeWeerd Hosting Organic, On-Farm Demo July 28, 2008

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.

Elm Tree Farm Hosts Organic Apple Field Day August 2nd in Afton, Minnesota

Mineral Point, WI - The Midwest Organic Tree Fruit Growers Network announces a unique learning opportunity for those interested in small-scale, commercial organic apple production. Patricia Bliska of Elm Tree Farm in Afton, Minnesota, east of the Twin Cities, will host growers at her 40-acre farm on August 2nd from 10 to 3 PM.

Patricia started her orchard five years ago. She currently has 220 apple and 20 plum trees of Minnesota varieties. She will share not only from her experience to date, but her graduate degree work on organic apple production. Growers will benefit from her thorough search for information on all aspects of production, particularly organic approaches and materials for pest management. Patricia is also trying out materials prepared according to biodynamic guidelines.

Roger Schnitzler of Farmco, LLC, will inform growers about the new farm insurance program available to Minnesota and Wisconsin growers called Adjusted Gross Revenue-Lite. This program takes into account ones farm revenue history and can work well for diversified farms and certified organic farms.

All registered participants will receive lunch and the new edition of the IPM Manual for Minnesota Apple Orchards. Advance registration and $20 is required by July 25. A registration form is available on the MOSES website or by contacting Deirdre at deirdreb@mindspring.com or 608-967-2362.

The Network appreciates funding for this event from the USDA Risk Management Agency. The Network was started in 2004 by growers for the purpose of sharing information and encouraging research to improve organic tree fruit production and marketing in the Midwest, and to represent growers engaged in such.