{"id":6074,"date":"2023-02-17T16:09:05","date_gmt":"2023-02-17T21:09:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/?p=6074"},"modified":"2023-02-22T09:05:34","modified_gmt":"2023-02-22T14:05:34","slug":"the-somerset-newsflash-february-2023","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/02\/17\/the-somerset-newsflash-february-2023\/","title":{"rendered":"The Somerset Newsflash, February 2023"},"content":{"rendered":"<h3 id=\"dates\"><a id=\"important-dates\"><\/a>Important Dates<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>February 18, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#winter-planting\">Winter Planting Class at Coolidge Library in Solon<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>February 21, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#managing-forage-crops\">Managing Forage Crops Workshop<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>February 21, 2023:<\/strong> Deadline to register for the <a href=\"#industrial-hemp-conference\">Industrial Hemp Virtual Conference<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>February 23, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#industrial-hemp-conference\">Industrial Hemp Virtual Conference<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>February 25, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#wild-blueberry-conference\">UMaine Wild Blueberry Conference<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>March 1, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#selling-value-added-products\">Selling Value-Added Products on the Farm<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>March 13, 2023:<\/strong> Deadline to register for the <a href=\"#maine-dairy-seminar\">Maine Dairy Seminar<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>March 16, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#maine-dairy-seminar\">Maine Dairy Seminar<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>March 20-21, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#dairy-financial-tri-state-workshop\">Dairy Financial Tri-State Workshop<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>March 27, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong>Deadline to apply for <a href=\"#urban-ag-innovative-production-grants\">Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Grants<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>April 1, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong>Application deadline for <a href=\"#calves-for-kids\">Calves for Kids<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>April 8, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#public-speaking-tournament\">State 4-H Public Speaking Tournament<\/a><\/li>\n<li><b>May 6, 2023:\u00a0<\/b>Somerset Extension\u00a0<a href=\"#open-house\">OPEN HOUSE<\/a>!<\/li>\n<li><strong>May 10-12, 2023:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"#meat-cutting-school\">Maine Meat Cutting School<\/a><\/li>\n<li><b>May 13th, 2023:\u00a0<\/b>Rain Date for Somerset Extension\u00a0<a href=\"#open-house\">OPEN HOUSE<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h3>Contents<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#news-in-the-county\">The News in the County<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#news\">The News<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#news-in-agriculture\">The News in Agriculture<\/a>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#meetings-and-conferences\">Meetings and Conferences<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#learning-opportunities\">Learning Opportunities<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#grants-and-funding\">Grants and Funding<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#notices-and-publications\">Notices and Publications<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#surveys-and-research\">Surveys and Research<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#news-in-4h\">The News in 4-H<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/2023\/01\/20\/the-somerset-newsflash-january-2023\/#news-in-homemakers\">The News in Homemakers<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"news-in-the-county\"><\/a>The News in the County<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><b><a id=\"open-house\"><\/a>Save the Date! We\u2019re hosting an OPEN HOUSE!!<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>Mark your calendars for Saturday,\u00a0<b>May 6<\/b>, 2023 (with a rain date of\u00a0<b>May 13<\/b>) from 10 AM to 2 PM. Our Somerset County Extension staff, board members, and volunteers will be hosting an Open House and all community members are invited. There will be presentations, demonstrations, activities for kids, garden help, seedlings, giveaways, and more! Please help us spread the word! More details to come.<\/p>\n<h4><b><a id=\"bretts-bulletin\"><\/a>Brett\u2019s Bulletin: Issues Impacting Somerset\u2019s Farms &amp; Gardens<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><em>Brett Johnson is our Sustainable Agriculture and Horticulture Professional and develops educational programs and provides technical assistance to commercial agricultural producers, and home gardeners, and community members.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Winter is for sowing seed? Absolutely, but choose your plants carefully.<\/p>\n<p>In Maine, we make the most of the winter months. This is especially true if you plan to grow garden vegetables or flowering ornamentals that require 100 to 120 days to mature from seed. Great candidates for sowing in February include leeks, onions, shallots, and delphinium. Garden vegetables that are fast growing and thrive in full sun, such as tomatoes, should be avoided until spring. If sown in the winter these plants will become etiolated or \u2018leggy\u2019 without supplemental light. Propagating seeds indoors in the winter requires a system that maintains consistent temperature and moisture conditions until germination. Practices that result in improved seed germination include, watering thoroughly after planting, using a dome to prevent drying out of planting media, and providing bottom heat.<\/p>\n<p>For an opportunity to learn more about winter sowing consider attending the Coolidge Library\u2019s (17 South Main Street, Solon) Public Garden Program\u2019s <strong>February 18<\/strong> workshop titled \u201cWinter Planting.\u201d The workshop will be held from 11:00am to 1:00pm. For more information contact Megan Myers at 207.643.2562.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><a id=\"alice-adventures\"><\/a>Alice\u2019s Adventures: EFNEP Updates for the Month of December<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><i>Alice Cantrell is our Nutrition Community Education Assistant and leads classes as part of Cooperative Extension\u2019s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP).<\/i><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-6076 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"Homemade Pretzels\" width=\"176\" height=\"235\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-105x140.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-317x423.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-423x564.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-634x845.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-846x1128.jpg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-951x1268.jpg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels-1268x1691.jpg 1268w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Marti-Stevens-high-school-Pretzels.jpg 1512w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px\" \/>Alice just finished two nutrition series with the Marti Stevens Learning Center called CREATE Better Health. The classes were focused on creating healthy habits and cooking skills that will transfer over to adult life for the high schooler students.<\/p>\n<p>On February 21, Alice will be starting a class series called Eating Smart Being Active with El Rancho De La Vida and will teach there for 8 weeks.<\/p>\n<p>EFNEP has also hired a new CEA in Franklin county named Isabella Russo and we are very excited to have her on board.<\/p>\n<p>Looking ahead, Alice will be speaking at a Homemaker annual meeting at the Victor Grange Hall in Fairfield and will also be attending the Franklin County Cooperative Extension&#8217;s open house on April 12.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><a id=\"meet-board-member\"><\/a>Meet a Board Member!<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-6079 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-234x300.jpg\" alt=\"Somerset Extension Board Member, Deb Gerry\" width=\"197\" height=\"253\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-234x300.jpg 234w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-800x1024.jpg 800w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-768x983.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-1200x1536.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-1600x2048.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-105x134.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-317x406.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-423x541.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-634x811.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-846x1083.jpg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-951x1217.jpg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023-1268x1623.jpg 1268w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/Deb-Gerry-selfie-2023.jpg 1966w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,197px\" \/>Please meet Deb Gerry, another one of our newest board members! Deb was just voted onto our Executive Board in December and has already joined our Open House planning committee.<\/p>\n<p>This is what Deb had to say about her connection to Cooperative Extension and why she decided to join the board:<\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">I grew up on a Vermont family dairy farm and was very involved in the New Hampshire FFA chapter where I attended High School. This was where I learned the value of Cooperative Extension. I am not yet a Master Gardener but I&#8217;ve been gardening all my life, so nearly 60 years of digging in the earth to grow produce for our family, friends, neighbors and local food cupboards.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In 2019 I started a Community Garden in my new hometown of Solon in honor of my late father&#8217;s memory and his wishes for me to share what I learned from him.\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Just last year, through my garden project, I met Brett and was excited to connect with our local Cooperative Extension.\u00a0 When it was suggested I become a part of the organization by volunteering to be on the Executive Committee, my first thought was that I wasn&#8217;t qualified, but the idea of how it would be a great way for me to help our local gardeners learn about what the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Somerset County can do to help them grow healthy food in a sustainable way won me over. Being so new in this position I have a lot to learn, but the wonderful people I have met through this connection gives me confidence that together we can make a difference and &#8220;grow&#8221; many new gardeners.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">I meet a lot of gardeners and &#8220;want to be gardeners&#8221; of all ages and I am amazed that nearly none know of the wonderful information and assistance they can get from the Cooperative Extension. It is critical during this day of skyrocketing food costs that people know there are resources out there to help them grow their own food.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p>UMaine Cooperative Extension can only be successful with the help of county residents serving on the Executive Committee. Board members provide oversight and support to staff, as well as help promote programs.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in UMaine Extension programs and giving back to your community, serving on the Executive Committee is a great place to be! For more information, please contact our office at 207.474.9622 or email\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:brett.w.johnson@maine.edu\">brett.w.johnson@maine.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"news\"><\/a>The News<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><b><a id=\"winter-planting\"><\/a>Public Gardening Programs at Coolidge Library in Solon<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>Volunteers with the Solon Community Garden will be hosting programs in partnership with the Coolidge Library in Solon.<\/p>\n<p>The first will be a \u201cWinter Planting\u201d class on\u00a0<b>February 18<\/b>\u00a0at the library from 11AM to 1PM. The program is FREE and open to the public and all program materials will be provided. And YES, you will get to take home your project!<\/p>\n<p>The program leaders will also talk about their project to expand the Community Garden to include garden beds and programs at the library, including some wonderful new projects and programs for children and gardeners of all ages and experience.<\/p>\n<p>Everyone is invited to come and see what\u2019s happening and offer input, even if they do not plan to be otherwise involved in the project. The goal is to feed the needs and bellies of ALL people and all visits and thoughts are welcome! Please consider stopping in to see what it\u2019s all about, with no pressure and no cost.<\/p>\n<h4><b>UMaine Extension Taps Former State Food Safety Specialist to Fill New Associate Dean Position<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-6085 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-200x300.jpeg\" alt=\"Jason Bolton\" width=\"148\" height=\"222\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-200x300.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-684x1024.jpeg 684w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-768x1150.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-1026x1536.jpeg 1026w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-93x140.jpeg 93w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-317x475.jpeg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-423x633.jpeg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-634x949.jpeg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-846x1267.jpeg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1-951x1424.jpeg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2023\/02\/unnamed-1.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 148px) 100vw, 148px\" \/>State food safety specialist and UMaine alumnus Jason Bolton has been named associate dean at University of Maine Cooperative Extension. This new position will provide leadership for strategic initiatives within the organization and help build capacity to address state needs.<\/p>\n<p>The associate dean position marks a new milestone for Extension as the organization aims to bring innovative university research to individuals and industry across Maine, with a focus on workforce development and new digital learning opportunities.<\/p>\n<p>Associate Dean Bolton, who officially started January 3, will lead new initiatives for Extension, including a statewide needs assessment, an organizational restructuring, and improved systems for financial planning and reporting.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZIoYJvF3hdmHM8FLVJikzbAzE2I43_zwCNXCW0tDDdBfLSlT3ROJLBIFaoFux2JahVt4sH2_wrceZ73SfkH03IsVhOIf9aUp8vk1VhnPbeTTC57xpI7wMjUccj2ldRObIef9v_zcd6Bvw_TT85J361GznwJBajrTUo5M9euPJAEyW5EDxpvt-SMkB-pdo5RtU5x3FOxnWWczRXYdM2OGsEYyduUI4SV1DSmjcobJ_TWSIPfn4mqVB0_g==&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">Click here for more<\/a><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Request a Workshop<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Are you looking for one of our popular food safety programs or a hands-on preserving workshop in your area? Click below to let our staff know that you are interested!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/umaine.us20.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a1cf4a5b2845aebdbba1bf076&amp;id=e117a9a3c7&amp;e=766b57b4e8\">COOKING FOR CROWDS<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/umaine.us20.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a1cf4a5b2845aebdbba1bf076&amp;id=48b1ecec4a&amp;e=766b57b4e8\">PRESERVING THE HARVEST<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"news-in-agriculture\"><\/a>The News in Agriculture<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"meetings-and-conferences\"><\/a>Meetings and Conferences<\/h3>\n<h4><strong><a id=\"wild-blueberry-conference\"><\/a>2023 UMaine Wild Blueberry Conference<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Celebrating 125 years of UMaine Wild Blueberry Research and Extension!<\/p>\n<p><strong>February 25<\/strong>, 8:00am &#8211; 7:00pm<\/p>\n<p>Three Pesticide Credits are available for full-day attendance. For questions regarding pesticide credits, email <a href=\"mailto:lily.calderwood@maine.edu\">lily.calderwood@maine.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Cost: 0-$50<\/p>\n<p>For more information about this year\u2019s conference, <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/blueberries\/umaine-wild-blueberry-conference\/#agenda\">complete agenda<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/blueberries\/umaine-wild-blueberry-conference\/#agenda-download\">agenda download<\/a>, visit the 2023 <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/blueberries\/umaine-wild-blueberry-conference\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UMaine Wild Blueberry Conference page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4><b><a id=\"maine-dairy-seminar\"><\/a>Maine Dairy Seminar<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Thursday <strong>March 16<\/strong>, 2023<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Elks Lodge, Waterville, ME<\/span><\/p>\n<p>This annual meeting gives us an opportunity to come together as a dairy industry, learn from subject matter experts and attend a trade show. This year we are extremely excited to welcome a renowned person within the dairy industry, Dr. Michael Hutjens to discuss dairy nutrition, specifically feeding strategies. We look forward to welcoming you once again to our event.<\/p>\n<p>Advanced registration required by <strong>March 13<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For more information and to register, visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=0013KM-AehMi90fYJl1V7Oh95QLGm6Vgt-ZQmFMrEUbBQsBXghq9VLnwaG7LoAsy0LXrWBTFyZV8LLDoP_OgKHXsMycIczZ-hMBIW2oJa8A2P1icLTsNBDNEj79jBqRLNc6YbMOjI0JtlK9vWKh4LRMmNOXqqV5eVxmltbfYSW4kp9AVlwOaS8IqeWvnFR5by_FUsRCq34-5LWtZ2Aj_tuQMaFFlUkMaZNi&amp;c=3hjUGmkLTTDOV10VjMm4qXviDT5qGzfLYFcE0H7l0UfVkjBppEsn2g==&amp;ch=DNjWmx_X0pVV9nHpz3ozVP7riTn8GZDjmqKdc9av8dWlrID6KRF0CQ==\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Maine Dairy Seminar page<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><a id=\"industrial-hemp-conference\"><\/a>2023 Industrial Hemp Virtual Conference<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Thursday, <strong>February 23<\/strong>, 2023, 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.<\/p>\n<p>The University of Vermont Extension Northwest Crops and Soils Program and the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food &amp; Markets invite you to the Fifth Annual Industrial Hemp Conference!<\/p>\n<p>Key Speakers include Chad Rosen, Founder and CEO of Victory Hemp Foods and Guy Carpenter, President of Bear Fiber Inc. in North Carolina. We also have a great line up of additional speakers and topics including the future of hemp foods, growing grain from field to farm gate (production and economics), research updates, breeding and genetics, regulatory updates, and more.<\/p>\n<p>Registration is $50 per person and is open until <strong>February 21<\/strong>. <a href=\"https:\/\/na.eventscloud.com\/hemp2023\">Register Online Here<\/a>. Questions or problems with registering, contact UVM University Event Services office to register by phone at 802-656-5665, ext. 3.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"learning-opportunities\"><\/a>Learning Opportunities<\/h3>\n<h4><strong><a id=\"managing-forage-crops\"><\/a>Managing Forage Crops Workshop &#8211; FREE<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><strong>February 21<\/strong>, 2023, 10:00am &#8211; 3:30pm<\/p>\n<p>University of<span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Massachusetts Research Farm &#8211; <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">89 River Road, South Deerfield, MA, 01373<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Price: Free (Lunch will be provided)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Animal operations are constantly seeking to reduce feed costs while maintaining high forage quality. The forage crop management workshop is a multi-state effort that provides the latest information about various aspects of forage production.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Speakers from UVM, UME, Cornell, UNH, and UMass will present topics all related to foraging.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001f1TTBsZCPl1yKtZ5jthxVQ7WRwc5s8cWCcdgbrywKRyj6greqVc0tAlVi983SHflPCB3xZA7K6sahX5i_v4RlDbOb-dz-USDLiOKCQU79oMh5BRMN5kJRrnAGVrZYWPLhMzyLLSbPGac2Av12RK4pVxe_HurE_OoGzxDvTCnvbl40s0h9H4UPL4O-YYJiZqGetPoAYhi63VEiy6uiNioYVuisE62D81Cb_hLt5LMvGmo7lMmTcbgPg==&amp;c=xMyi2LnlwXMAmpWaAM3eSrqu0QuyA4_39hw1XFenmS69duTWOcMeEw==&amp;ch=QilBcKqK0gdB7CKcVCBSA9HS9bP4FVICEOelHKYVHRzOMoN35OSTlQ==\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Register here.<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> or email <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">masoud@umass.edu<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> or call 413-545-4800<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Swine 101: Raising Pastured Pork<\/strong><\/h4>\n<div>\n<p class=\"price\"><span class=\"amount\">$0.00<\/span>\u2013<span class=\"amount\">$10.00<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p>The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is excited to announce a FREE series entitled Swine 101: Raising Pastured Pork. This seminar will be held in multiple locations across the state, and a meal will be provided (smoked pork!). Join Dr. Colt W. Knight, University of Maine Cooperative Extension State Livestock Specialist, for a 2-hour primer on raising pastured pork. Topics include: breed selection, basic reproductive information, swine nutrition, fencing, housing, meat yield, and more.<\/p>\n<p>Visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/register\/product\/swine-raising-pastured-pork-2023\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">program page<\/a> for more information and to register.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h4><strong><a id=\"#meat-cutting-school\"><\/a>2023 Maine Meat Cutting School<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1598\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/food-health\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2012\/04\/cut-meat-4.jpg\" alt=\"cutting steak on stainless steel counter\" width=\"288\" height=\"196\" \/><\/strong><b><\/b><\/p>\n<p>A Three-Day Course in Professional Meat Cutting\/Processing<\/p>\n<p><strong>May 10<\/strong>, <strong>11<\/strong>, and <strong>12<\/strong>, 2023<\/p>\n<p>The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is working with the School of Food and Agriculture, the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, and the University of Kentucky to offer a three-day course in professional meat cutting\/processing, with a third day set aside for any spillover and classroom learning objectives. This course includes both classroom and hands-on training.<\/p>\n<p>Capacity is limited. Visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/food-health\/food-safety\/meat-cutting-school\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">program page<\/a> for more information and to register.<\/p>\n<h4><b><a id=\"dairy-financial-tri-state-workshop\"><\/a>Dairy Financial Tri-State Workshop 2023<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>Educators Joanna Lidback and Tony Kitsos will help farmers calculate cost of production and breakeven milk price, discuss and learn about diversification options, and explore risk management. Cost is free and lunch plus materials will be provided. Dairy farmers will be prioritized. This is a tri-state event and you are welcome to attend in NH and VT.<\/p>\n<p>When:\u00a0Monday, <strong>March 20,<\/strong> 2023 and Tuesday, <strong>March 21<\/strong>, 2023 at 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (participation required for 2 days)<\/p>\n<p>Where: Lisa&#8217;s White Flour, 205 Church Hill Rd, Augusta ME<\/p>\n<p>Cost: Free, Sponsored by NEDBIC<\/p>\n<p>Limited space. <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=0013KM-AehMi90fYJl1V7Oh95QLGm6Vgt-ZQmFMrEUbBQsBXghq9VLnwTmltlHurH-JUgVH6XzntLaDCz76RvAZ80QwxAmyHFZaMxND8jbaYxDXsiBmhsiOjUk8318Nzi-pZKjPAksGdJniWICke_5x34PUsmhGR0oY_dkJMiwpOcXcyNYWaQu5DvF54K6jCsSP8ThH1m5K9HlooMSI0CFuggOHfCopK4s1twHtDiW65AceTds61fsvug==&amp;c=3hjUGmkLTTDOV10VjMm4qXviDT5qGzfLYFcE0H7l0UfVkjBppEsn2g==&amp;ch=DNjWmx_X0pVV9nHpz3ozVP7riTn8GZDjmqKdc9av8dWlrID6KRF0CQ==\">Register and more information<\/a><\/p>\n<h4><b>Mending Our Fences Podcast Released to Address Farmer Stress<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mending Our Fences, a new podcast series sponsored by the Cultivemos\/North East Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network has been posted on <\/span><b>Google, Spotify and Apple<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. Listen to folks from the realms of agriculture and mental health come together to look at some of the every-day hard things that come with life in agriculture, take them apart to learn more about what makes them hard and put them back together in sometimes surprising ways that promote hope, possibility and resilience.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><strong><a id=\"selling-value-added-products\"><\/a>Selling Value-Added Products On the Farm<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you are a farmer interested in opening a farmstand on your property, please join us to learn about key federal, state, and local regulations that impact small food producers who seek to make and sell value-added products from home. We will cover what\u2019s allowed when selling meat, eggs, dairy, cottage foods such as pickles and baked goods, and more, and explore the legal solutions that can help these businesses grow and thrive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>March 1<\/strong>, 2023 12:00 PM via Zoom<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/us06web.zoom.us\/webinar\/register\/WN_owmd0MGTS1u-eQT8WmXT8Q\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Register Here<\/a><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Hemp Production: Science and Uses<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Online\u00a0 $10.00\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This 5-week course is designed for farmers who want to improve their understanding of why you might want to grow hemp, the key considerations involved with this particular crop, and what we know about this plant and what it might do for your customers that use it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>For more information and to enroll, visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/discover.maine.edu\/product?catalog=Hemp_Production_Science_and_Uses&amp;fbclid=IwAR1UBNl40EsgVR7we7CjdvyMCkZnL641P_C58mCQZIjnocOX46-LftHtMtw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">course page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"grants-and-funding\"><\/a>Grants and Funding<\/h3>\n<h4><b>USDA Rolling Out Revenue Based Disaster and Pandemic Assistance Programs<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>USDA Farm Service Agency\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001GnrHAphzAZsAGN70UQ8hXUl_LioELDlp49CVnzox13SAoBXXHKGs6bUPG0sIyaIwSmII-dQaGEgU3e3lu0j3mnhfc9jBIlRjg2M4WJWk3wb_GPIDkrlxtjbEQabIelZJy8NTofiz-Pghte-q1eO-KQodO9__K9sjlY5ZPHa5rO9sW4xAw8iejC3IcgavRS9_P8UyN4RH8yTA23aWmgJgsQ==&amp;c=7NSlQOMqBY0qd_ukuDOPgvNintHWcYmwJRbOibd6IKmZTsTsJ6wLxA==&amp;ch=Z1YBKsntu8hkfjRMSbZFx-ARqK2BmQTQuvuDCaHfkwLsTBDEzHgAnw==\">Emergency Relief Program Phase<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001GnrHAphzAZsAGN70UQ8hXUl_LioELDlp49CVnzox13SAoBXXHKGs6bUPG0sIyaIwSmII-dQaGEgU3e3lu0j3mnhfc9jBIlRjg2M4WJWk3wb_GPIDkrlxtjbEQabIelZJy8NTofiz-Pghte-q1eO-KQodO9__K9sjlY5ZPHa5rO9sW4xAw8iejC3IcgavRS9_P8UyN4RH8yTA23aWmgJgsQ==&amp;c=7NSlQOMqBY0qd_ukuDOPgvNintHWcYmwJRbOibd6IKmZTsTsJ6wLxA==&amp;ch=Z1YBKsntu8hkfjRMSbZFx-ARqK2BmQTQuvuDCaHfkwLsTBDEzHgAnw==\">Two (ERP) <\/a>and <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001GnrHAphzAZsAGN70UQ8hXUl_LioELDlp49CVnzox13SAoBXXHKGs6RsJtEZBajteZ_Hterzfpx936_sM79FNDLNvu3w6paSm3jGGUTIpBzJUmvA3Sv8tIRdqzetwvTsoIDJTTQUHSmPhg1gOXdd5fiT19oQ8uhOLsL8CjvV6TXCGOKHq6CTFQOe6I1L_o3xx2hYb0MnjJLs=&amp;c=7NSlQOMqBY0qd_ukuDOPgvNintHWcYmwJRbOibd6IKmZTsTsJ6wLxA==&amp;ch=Z1YBKsntu8hkfjRMSbZFx-ARqK2BmQTQuvuDCaHfkwLsTBDEzHgAnw==\">Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program (PARP<\/a>) application periods are open from <strong>January 23<\/strong>, 2023, through <strong>June 2<\/strong>, 2023. Contact your local FSA at their <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001GnrHAphzAZsAGN70UQ8hXUl_LioELDlp49CVnzox13SAoBXXHKGs6RsJtEZBajtedat1C0tBfx31pyg4DtK3dZsyMqFcDYbb4VlsSfOBNJYRL13I1kuvWLMzHkwyE9Nl7fcGIRXLGT51o7H-FN-s1wchO6OWg7-b&amp;c=7NSlQOMqBY0qd_ukuDOPgvNintHWcYmwJRbOibd6IKmZTsTsJ6wLxA==&amp;ch=Z1YBKsntu8hkfjRMSbZFx-ARqK2BmQTQuvuDCaHfkwLsTBDEzHgAnw==\">USDA Service Center<\/a> to receive program benefits.<\/p>\n<h4><b><a id=\"urban-ag-innovative-production-grants\"><\/a>Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Grants Available through USDA<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>These competitive grants will fund costs associated with planning or implementation of urban and\/or innovative agricultural production projects. Projects funded in 2022 included conducting a feasibility study and developing a business plan establishing a cooperative for small-scale producers serving low food access markets in Harris County, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>USDA will accept applications on <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001GnrHAphzAZsAGN70UQ8hXUl_LioELDlp49CVnzox13SAoBXXHKGs6RsJtEZBajtektrkJLBxJve75jH50IAUrKb_zFLkRh_ncFNABWSpgsCs-0Lm0XDsXoUvjW9tjPgVR_rw5-iH3PoxN6IpH0SERbTaBT48gc95VYN_Tjk0QctRe5ZJAW4ogvj0SOIekH5w&amp;c=7NSlQOMqBY0qd_ukuDOPgvNintHWcYmwJRbOibd6IKmZTsTsJ6wLxA==&amp;ch=Z1YBKsntu8hkfjRMSbZFx-ARqK2BmQTQuvuDCaHfkwLsTBDEzHgAnw==\">Grants.gov<\/a> until 11:59pm ET on <strong>March 27<\/strong>, 2023.<\/p>\n<h4><b>USDA Announced Grants Awarded to Maine Farms and Firms<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Maine Farm Receives <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZIYQRntJjD4niDl0sssh-lP2NqogQ3TrC8J3uOuWcFxQU4K_m9insfKDc8_OIjwHNecO21v3Kt6e_VgEESKTz-Ve9L1KSV19oU8W-cGmEdWEddKRsDvnhUrN349VAojlUhi9myquWDkUjPZkr5_j-Q4KfL3f2-KSNWE3d85g-EuM0=&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">USDA Rural Development Value Added Producer Grant<\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> &#8211; assists agricultural producers seeking to establish or expand markets for their value-added agricultural products. Apple Creek Farm LLC will use the working capital grant funds to expand processing, marketing, and sales of their certified organic eggs, beef, chicken, sheep, goats, and sheepskins. This project will allow for an increase in customer base and revenue and will add two employees. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZImBtqlSPGZ-DQERucqs2-ehkmVjYaEnDghhzqLoySV-mWsb5lgVQP64x8DcVbjSl53qdChgDVR-tRtxDFVPKPfNa_D83ZriEhrsYx1gwQcISDlnfvFnqp9gvrUzRbPSbHmVGcmOJW_0XZfyj1VVKY0z7XMLcSfQ0_SZC4vUIJyWqczbYWm5D_NQ==&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">Full description of VAPG grant recipients can be accessed here<\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZI5WPYMH1utnoN3pffUkpmzhOoxDX6nak2uKSb8IIxFvNCt1ffer1pOz__Bv-cxHBbMA615CCg4WSKuoRvn9BDU3Hefk544ey2jnpPrt4cFk6koQlYb5AV4A==&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grant (MPIRG)<\/a> program assists currently operational meat and poultry slaughter and processing facilities in obtaining a Federal or State Grant of Inspection. Five Maine farms and\/or poultry processors received grants under the MPIRG program. Congratulations to Olde Haven Farm LLC, Fork Food Lab, Hatch\u2019s Custom Meat Cutting, Nest and Mullen LLC, Rooney\u2019s Meat Shop. <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZIZfcKvLjcDe_mtTyG9I5Rzh6Lx_3YcTQqf82-xYQf_sQ-hWpQtG56XptiYgFsLT62mcezOI4aQjKIWmYKfZnFfUcDnwAObqbJIktgRpv971DGkqCRtVQQI9TZc-VtgpO0XxeoMO_WXVma_EMMu9OfwvxDA_G7JEhBCR3ALrM_C30=&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">Full description of these grant recipients can be accessed here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>USDA Ag Marketing Service &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzHtVMFw3fkDSBBoH3UQb9RrokFDbBMVLebbM-AzzZ4a7rM-fUKOCm-J3RMOtmNUk9c64X12sz4_HMo8fGRrZ0HLpe-mtmH0Qz5rBZDX-wyFKXDNHJT-TYwt2_918mQmNw==&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">Local Food Program Grant <\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">assists projects that develop, coordinate and expand local and regional food business enterprises that engage as intermediaries in indirect producer to consumer marketing to help increase access to and availability of locally and regionally produced agricultural products. Smithereen Farm received a grant Harnessing Maine\u2019s Local Farming &amp; Fishing Economy through the Minke Kitchen Food Hub, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZI2yPG32wWu6wTMfBDATuIWUTCVv6Hj_nntNLrHZf2RLKPK7m7ltV-u_9wANvASPggwRSIvR1M1ynha8qSiliuSBGw7-9XCuqcyo20g_HSLUlxFVqHxk1_PD3Q9E-sn0IP2dWEKZCjxB8LZu3lyMDDl0rcw_QLfld9FKnRfqOqgK4Wp6Nj3lVMgg==&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">Full description of grant recipients can be accessed here.<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"notices-and-publications\"><\/a>Notices and Publications<\/h3>\n<h4><b>New Factsheets on Soil-Water Monitoring Released by UMaine &amp; UVM<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>As our climate changes, managing soil water availability will become increasingly important and challenging. In particular, irrigation systems are becoming critical. Farmers and researchers are exploring new irrigation-management strategies, particularly in regions that have not historically relied upon irrigation to meet crop water needs. Soil water monitoring systems are a key component of efficient irrigation, enabling farmers to both maximize water-use efficiency and ensure that crops can thrive. This is especially important given the increased variability in rainfall experienced in recent decades across many parts of the world.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001CZFXVVqnMauGTd7O0yabqpn9xuzTxtkrbkI674v57ck_acSSIpQsIphO081aWvv5deieRUucwUsnemr-Yc3Nsl5VEiDCHYPIcd7j9KBRxRkjiBt_rY9VfkCLKbHhe_nyipwsjDVZiRnme6GAJ1y00EqcvqwsF_s4Ih-xShnYOr8JV7FS6ciN1cWAwe3lDCOHeHx7MawBfbuRub1DNgUEMx3_KIXM_90lg1FKts0E0yCjs0quSR5qCXhIJRrmdfxIJ0zPIsd4ltY=&amp;c=OO88a_309rY5heqxuZ8-rMqz6JAPdxahzzYjTlrobBOMOkp4JPaJUw==&amp;ch=mNW2KJuImhHOZGVYLErzfnvp5kp9xmMrWj9HfkFb5xZh56UlBo06Eg==\">Read more and find the new factsheets here.<\/a><\/p>\n<h4><b>Organic Certification Applications Open<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">MOFGA Certification Services (MCS): <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001A2On0kau7TijMu2qzBUQ_Zu8G6A-Um_bs1duNNQg_EylLnR1Kdkr9k3OAjhx5HCN_b5ZypXfdVxmgtx5LgNfbTU4l_UUxQf5tyZA-PFMmA_rEBH1JgkpmiS7Mi81L5FrbvJIU2VfgIViHaUB8nd3OvY3WuJngOlm87vI1-t2jWQ4N1a3ZYF6uA==&amp;c=Nz808QfOLww7dCJbJ1v7TIp9KCmMDsYx_6NLFPeLLESwXlKR3XntWg==&amp;ch=_e45r9X2nenm0zFhO3rMz5Zko8-ZUZzzlBBW79IKg5fa8gMtbIOwNA==\">2023 application forms are now available and being accepted<\/a>.<span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> MCS is now officially accepting applications and renewals for 2023 certification. All required forms can be found and downloaded from their website, as well as the schedule of submission deadlines; check the certification menu for specific scopes and production categories. For more information, contact the MCS office at <\/span><a href=\"mailto:certification@mofga.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">certification@mofga.org<\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> or 207-568-6030.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Maine Flower Collective 2023 Applications Now Open<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZIQOfiWzfYMODtCLo1kI3scvBBwnRmFdloYtr7D4sqWtFk9KaHbc8fwrpeGrKRqiw1DW5Gp6lznbp0NTcQjRnEQCFzYlRavZ2qZibjx3QhkTLQXavvAsOEi2nGE-f06A74&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">Maine Flower Collective (MFC)<\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> applications are now available. Review essential information about the collective, and then fill out and submit your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001-N7Qszko5oJc-n_oyTLztmoXaFFT0yT6610bl3b6kxrtdw_M0sNczzzIB1Ac1jZIo3a1ve-06wGhly_kRf7FuWMhUWdxPtZTxBwIHJXfZP7zOTMfrptxLSBhpbyaSJGEh_jGtPFbIBdhbbqLyueW1dl7Tojg4PtzQm_IgxRkcID7082dl96UsA==&amp;c=R-v4VhGhyxEk8zOr7VtgOcyDPefSbgOfFayhvvTAvIH8GQWwggQIqA==&amp;ch=rcP5V8dPzwS1OHwSGozN4H5TJgMSE_7QrmDe2cNPmBC_RMGvrt36Lw==\">online application<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4><b><a id=\"calves-for-kids\"><\/a>2023 Maine Beef Producers Association Calves for Kids<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Maine Beef Producers Association is once again accepting applications for the <\/span>Calves For Kids<span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> program.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>The deadline is <strong>April 1<\/strong>, 2023.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Youth applying will be asked to come for an interview before the Calves For Kids committee at a later date. This program, started in 2007, has given 2 youth in the State of Maine a heifer calf.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The program gives a youth an opportunity to have a registered beef heifer to show and start a herd. The youth&#8217;s obligation is to breed the heifer to a registered bull and give back to the program the first heifer calf. If they do not get a heifer calf born after a few years they are obligated to pay the MBPA $1000.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001f1TTBsZCPl1yKtZ5jthxVQ7WRwc5s8cWCcdgbrywKRyj6greqVc0tNNv7AEdXUV3_0qlewBg1axeC96rlXw27xMXUsG8Lh0s76SKmK7wE1dveHGizRoQiNhnARQbxDcio2M7vhzn1z06kP_hQNM6VvqyaeL8gnZrYsT8fHc4iNGIZ8G8yz3XP4K1M3g0C8tEy5hlenQh35SK3WxrS7tW3A==&amp;c=xMyi2LnlwXMAmpWaAM3eSrqu0QuyA4_39hw1XFenmS69duTWOcMeEw==&amp;ch=QilBcKqK0gdB7CKcVCBSA9HS9bP4FVICEOelHKYVHRzOMoN35OSTlQ==\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">An online fillable pdf application is available here.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Greenhouse Plastic Recycling<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Now administered by MOFGA, this statewide collection program is accepting bundles of low-density polyethylene (LDPE#4) clear film used to cover greenhouses, high tunnels and other agricultural structures. We will also accept white overwintering LDPE#4 film. Bundles can be dropped off on pallets at\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001tquUI62NDyoXBQWqfWPuu5fFaugDmWkmHonXGFkMt4CIdZlHFQE0kTgXlWY386WNZkvSt89zeOeaNrfJvzVVWghaXXlh1fQ3NH7ShlBwaMllKGnjE5uaMbfZXlsttNzouIcdrV76nRSsphFlJwGw6gY0hxwDxHTrusns5cALksY=&amp;c=sNbgNrTcDoFpfsAs17p6-LwMeZYCJlQAWNLIr371sqC8LujvIx6qog==&amp;ch=edtb0QSkzQLr6nmxbiAJtjPdCQ6KDJ_nt-DnXKotxtbx1K91R9v9jg==\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the red MOFGA barn<\/a>\u00a0across from 210 Crosby Brook Road in Unity. Please register bundles and drop-off date using this\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001tquUI62NDyoXBQWqfWPuu5fFaugDmWkmHonXGFkMt4CIdZlHFQE0kTgXlWY386WNmO2enw37NxDT2vsZrUuCLP6JIki25IZn2sH6SsCo8QVL86W2iogqtMODUmjRfRWKHTTLNix8LZhYmHG5xtYO6UDYN01wBqCs&amp;c=sNbgNrTcDoFpfsAs17p6-LwMeZYCJlQAWNLIr371sqC8LujvIx6qog==&amp;ch=edtb0QSkzQLr6nmxbiAJtjPdCQ6KDJ_nt-DnXKotxtbx1K91R9v9jg==\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">form<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"surveys-and-research\"><\/a>Surveys and Research<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001GnrHAphzAZsAGN70UQ8hXUl_LioELDlp49CVnzox13SAoBXXHKGs6RsJtEZBajte-o6fQS74J9_9w7Ff9JInpuerUkuIX4u0KQdffS4s2TbLvidy-lIAehHY68UOua_NoazqOsX9SQmG4dgd6BoajSg7ft7H0VgjQ53h6AvXiDYoCvq_KajNKVDeYwPVcKjG9SYV3w6ZO8DgnXkY3lFiNG3NgRtzEqng8vr21sS-b0xPEw0sKZLgdZbQz4k8b_kmoPWQVWDhGgQxn5QZcREVV27dSsubYPfGm7Vzbwj50YBuOaCLeSZ_GuHZQT_rZM6A&amp;c=7NSlQOMqBY0qd_ukuDOPgvNintHWcYmwJRbOibd6IKmZTsTsJ6wLxA==&amp;ch=Z1YBKsntu8hkfjRMSbZFx-ARqK2BmQTQuvuDCaHfkwLsTBDEzHgAnw==\"><b>2021 New England Agriculture Statistics Annual Bulletin<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p>From farm operators across the region who participated in the voluntary surveys NASS conducted throughout the year.<\/p>\n<p>It has a wealth of information about each New England state agriculture sector.<\/p>\n<p>Some Maine Statistics:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Average Farm Real Estate Value per Acre $2,600<\/li>\n<li>Cash Rents of Cropland (per acre) $60 ($24 &#8211; $125)<\/li>\n<li>Price of Hay (per ton) $158<\/li>\n<li>Av. Yield Hay (per acre) 1.91 tons<\/li>\n<li>Av. Price Sweet Corn $5.10 \/ dozen<\/li>\n<li>Av. Price Maple Syrup $38.60 \/ gallon<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><strong>Reminder: Maine Maple Producers Input Needed<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4660 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-300x84.jpg\" alt=\"grading maple syrup\" width=\"204\" height=\"57\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-300x84.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-768x215.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-1024x287.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-105x29.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-600x168.jpg 600w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-317x89.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-423x118.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-634x178.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-846x237.jpg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4-951x266.jpg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2018\/08\/somerset-4.jpg 1268w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,204px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>From Jason Lilley, Assistant Extension Professor, Sustainable Agriculture and Maple Industry Educator:<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">We have received some great input from maple producers, but I&#8217;d love to get input from many more of you. As I work to build out the UMaine Extension maple program, I want to make sure that my efforts are targeted where they will best serve you, the producers. If you haven&#8217;t already, please take a few minutes to share how I can best support the industry with this <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/r20.rs6.net\/tn.jsp?f=001VU_AppF377ctkVLvq_ez00UsXpmH7aQuDGpYfouI3l7Ju_mfJtsFz9ixLEyFij3ak0zcFjLdyzgqNrmwdFp7Xf6EG-gWaATBVGf0g_veAknwY_BXPkX9VHQGPSZCEoweflL1PAyJ0JBjD7gfLs9OFWB31E_GlIXdCXgfpaWxSbYItL5S_ghcv_ehqVjaSsBm&amp;c=Y8p5dlWdbLxo8J3pRN9949LrLD0i_nO0BjDwr3CwV_R-WbjjXEEnLA==&amp;ch=KcARqE5vAQpRMI7ydKejA6EV8XhYtnBzBvg7oFZiR88v_3UQIY8sdw==\">Maple Industry Needs Assessment Survey.<\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The survey should take 5-10 minutes to complete.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Farmers And Ranchers Sought For A Study About Balancing Children And Work<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Researchers at the National Farm Medicine Center and The Ohio State University are looking for farmers and ranchers who are raising children 0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> to 18 t<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">o participate in an online survey. The survey asks about your<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> families\u2019 experiences of taking care of children (age 0 to 18) while also working on and off the farm\/ranch. The survey is open to part time and full time farmers, ranchers, and their partners operating in rural, urban, or suburban areas. Participants <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">have the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">option to enter a raffle for one of fifty $50 checks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>To fill out the 15 to 20 minute survey, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/redcap.link\/Survey1_FarmersRaisingChildren\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this link.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>For questions or to request a paper survey, contact Florence Becot at 715-389-9379 or <a href=\"mailto:becot.florence@marshfieldresearch.org\">becot.florence@marshfieldresearch.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"news-in-4h\"><\/a>The News in 4-H<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><b>Registration Open for Maple Sugaring 101: From Sap to Syrup to Sales<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Youth ages 12-18 are invited to register for a 3-week pilot Maple Sugaring program with a mix of virtual and on-site sessions Wednesdays and Saturdays starting February 22, 5:00 \u2013 6:00 pm. During this 3-week program, participants will learn about the entire process, from forest management, tapping trees, transporting sap, using an evaporator, grading and storing syrup, to operating a maple sugaring business. University of Maine Cooperative Extension will host the weekday meetings via Zoom. Onsite sessions will be located at sugarhouses and extension offices in Somerset and Piscatiquis counties and the University of Maine Sugarhouse in Orono. This club is limited to 10 participants in each county. Registration ends <\/span><b>February 17<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, 2023. Visit the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/annual-events\/maple-sugaring-101\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">program page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> for more information.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b><a id=\"public-speaking-tournament\"><\/a>State Public Speaking Tournament \u2013 Save the Date!<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>Our state public speaking tournament will be held on\u00a0<b>April 8<\/b>, 2023 at DP Corbett Hall on the University\u00a0of Maine campus. Youth must qualify for this event by achieving\u00a0a score of 78 or higher at their county or regional tournament. Check with your county 4-H staff to find out when your county tournament will be held.<\/p>\n<h4><b>2022\/2023 4-H Volunteer Training Opportunities<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>As we get ready for the new 4-H year, we are looking forward to offering a variety of learning experiences (both in person and virtual) for our 4-H volunteers. Sessions are free of charge, but require registration. Some sessions have limited space. Visit the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/maine-4-h-volunteer-training-opportunities\/\">4-H Volunteer Calendar of Training Opportunities<\/a>\u00a0to learn more and register!<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><a id=\"news-in-homemakers\"><\/a>The News in Homemakers<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p><em>Extension Homemakers is a volunteer group that develops\u00a0<strong>leadership skills<\/strong>, supports\u00a0<strong>community causes<\/strong>, and promotes UMaine Extension\u2019s\u00a0<strong>educational programs<\/strong>\u00a0in nine Maine counties. These organized programs are part of the statewide network of Extension Homemakers.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Local group members meet throughout the year to participate in educational programs and identify community projects, such as providing assistance to local food pantries, nursing homes, or veterans groups, or funding educational scholarships or youth camp programs.<\/em><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Enrollment Paperwork is Past Due<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Please turn in your enrollment forms to Emily at the Somerset County Office as soon as possible!<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Help Us Collect Can Tabs<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-5423 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2022\/02\/can-tabs.jpg\" alt=\"Can Tabs\" width=\"129\" height=\"129\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2022\/02\/can-tabs.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2022\/02\/can-tabs-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2022\/02\/can-tabs-105x105.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/somerset\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2022\/02\/can-tabs-32x32.jpg 32w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 129px) 100vw, 129px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>All Somerset County Homemakers Clubs are collecting can tabs to be recycled for cash that will be donated to the Ronald McDonald house. Anyone is welcome to contribute to the effort and can tabs can be donated by contacting any of the Extension Homemakers or by dropping them off at the Somerset County Extension office.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Volunteer in Somerset County!<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Would you or someone you know like to become more engaged in volunteerism throughout Somerset County? Consider joining Homemakers! The Somerset County Extension Homemakers are always welcoming new members. Please visit the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/homemakers\/\">Maine Extension Homemakers website<\/a>\u00a0for general information about the program or reach out to the Somerset County Extension Homemakers President, Rita Fortin with any questions or to express interest. Rita can be reached at 207.453.2945 or at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:ritafortin2@gmail.com\">ritafortin2@gmail.com<\/a>. You may also contact the Maine Extension Homemakers Coordinator, Lisa Fishman at 800.287.1421 or at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:lisa.fishman@maine.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">lisa.fishman@maine.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Important Dates February 18, 2023:\u00a0Winter Planting Class at Coolidge Library in Solon February 21, 2023:\u00a0Managing Forage Crops Workshop February 21, 2023: Deadline to register for the Industrial Hemp Virtual Conference February 23, 2023:\u00a0Industrial Hemp Virtual Conference February 25, 2023:\u00a0UMaine Wild Blueberry Conference March 1, 2023:\u00a0Selling Value-Added Products on the Farm March 13, 2023: Deadline to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":150,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6,116],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6074","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-news","category-somerset-county-newsflash"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The Somerset Newsflash, February 2023 - Cooperative Extension in Somerset County - University of Maine Cooperative Extension<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, 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