Category: Events & Workshops

NEWS, EVENTS AND INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW

Self-Certification of Small Farm Operators (CSFO) triggered by the Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) is now ongoing. Info and forms for small farmers now required to certify at: agriculture.vermont.gov/sfo

One big change is the number of farms now falling under the requirement to have a nutrient management plan (NMP). “Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) understands that few Certified Small Farm Operations will have a complete Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) for 2017, but that farmers should be actively working towards NMP
completion by taking modified Morgan extractant soil samples and applying manure at agronomic rates.” If you have questions about CSFOs, taking samples, getting your NMP or other RAPs regulations, we can help you navigate this transition. Stop by our Extension office or give us a call!

August 7, 8 a.m.-noon – Drop off crop entries to participate in our FIELD CROP EXHIBIT. Addison County Fair and Field Days August 8-12: We are looking forward to your entries. This is one way we connect with the public, describe the importance of agriculture, and how farming has changed over the years. From corn and hay to wheat and soybeans, help us show and tell everybody about the great crops you grow – then use your prize winnings on fair treats for the family!

See complete contest rules here. Or call our office and ask Karen for details [802-388-4969].

Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition’s monthly meetings and field day events are a great way for farmers to connect on water quality issues that go hand-in-hand with farm profitability. When faced with changing regulations and public views, we are stronger together. Come to a CVFC meeting or field day: discover and join this progressive, exciting group
of farmers and supporting business members. Schedule at:
www.champlainvalleyfarmercoalition.com

 

Upcoming Events: May 2017

Events hosted or with programing support by us:
  • Spring Pasture Walk. This Friday, May 5, Addison, VT. For more information and rsvp contact Cheryl Cesario (802-388-4969 ext. 346).
  • Cover Crops as Forage Crops. Next Monday, May 8, Cornwall, VT, 11:00-12:00 pm. Meet at the Champlain Valley Motorsports parking lot. Coordinated with the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition, this informal “crop patrol” for farmers will explore growing and harvesting a winter rye cover crop for forage. We will explore how would you manage a cover crop to maximize forage yield, fit into an annual crop system, and utilize for grazing before a summer crop.  For more information contact Nate (802-388-4969 ext. 348).
  • Spring Bus Tour – Celebrating Local Farm Conservation Efforts. May 17, 9:30 am-3:45 pm. Coordinated with the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition, this is a day long bus tour of Chittenden and Addison County Farmers participating in conservation work and supporting the joint mission of agricultural economy and improving water quality. This bus tour is for farmers, representatives, state and federal professionals. For more information and rsvp, contact Nate (802-388-4969 ext. 348)

More information or questions about any of these events can be obtained by contacting our office.

802-388-4969 ~ 23 Pond Lane, Suite 300 Middlebury, VT 05753

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Events hosted by other affiliates:
  • Dairy Science and Sanitation. May 10-11, 8:30 am-5 pm, UVM, Burlington, VT. Hosted by the UVM Extension and Cornell University. More information can be found here.
  • The Youth Agricultural Individual Development Account (IDA) Program, a collaboration of University of Vermont (UVM) Extension 4-H and the UVM Center for Sustainable Agriculture, has extended its deadline to May 15 for applications for its next program cycle. The free one-year program helps young farmers, ages 14 to 21, acquire the necessary financial skills and business assets to operate their own agricultural business. More info/applications here.
Other News:
  • The New RAP rules are now in effect, including vegetative buffer requirements. If you are plowing and/or planting annual crops, you should be informed of buffer rules. To see the entire list of RAP rule effective dates, see this link. Questions should be directed to VAAFM. You can also contact us if you’d like help on your farm determining how to make compliance work for your operation.
  • The Agricultural Business / Farm Viability Program, through UVM Extension has ongoing funding for water quality business analysis, to help farmers analyze options for meeting conservation and regulatory compliance goals. Analysis will include financial planning, strategic planning and coordination with related agencies. For more information or to sign up, contact Mark Canella (1-866-860-1383, toll free in VT).
 

Upcoming Events: April and Early May, 2017

Events hosted or with programing support by us – the Champlain Valley Crop, Soil and Pasture Team:

  • Following the New Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) in the Floodplain – For Farmers.  April 4, Middlebury Extension Office, 10 am-12 pm. We will be discussing floodplain agriculture including: manure spreading ban, incorporation of manure, cover crops on annual cropland, and limitations of stacked manure. For more information contact Nate (802-388-4969 ext. 348).
  • No-Till Planter Clinic.April 6, Gosliga Farm, Addison, 10 am-12 pm. For more information click here, or contact Rico (802-773-3349 ext. 281).
  • Organic Certification Renewal Clinic. April 6 and April 11, Middlebury Extension Office, 10 am-4 pm. This year, applications must be submitted electronically. We are holding clinics to help you get it done. We will provide laptops or you can bring your own. To sign up and for more information contact Cheryl (802-388-4969 ext. 346)
  • Crop Patrol and Discussion of Buffers and Grassed Waterways. Tentative Date April 20, Addison, 1-3 pm. For more information contact Nate (802-388-4969 ext. 348).
  • Grazing Cover Crops and Harvesting Cover Crops for Forage. Upcoming events for early to mid May, details to be determined. For more information contact Nate (802-388-4969 ext. 348).
More information or questions about any of these events can be obtained by contacting our office.
802-388-4969 ~ 23 Pond Lane, Suite 300 Middlebury, VT 05753
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Events hosted by other affiliates:

  • Dairy Science and Sanitation. May 10-11, 8:30 am-5 pm, UVM, Burlington, VT. Hosted by the UVM Extension and Cornell University. More information can be found here.

Other News:

  • The New RAP rules come into effect this year, and vegetative buffer requirements are in effect starting April 15, 2017. To see the entire list of RAP rule effective dates, see this link. Questions should be directed to VAAFM.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND INFORMATION FOR SUCCESS

Buffers and Grassed Waterways, Oh My!

We know, buffers and grassed waterways are not always the favorite
topics of farmers, but when it comes to water quality, they can
make a big difference. With our grant focus in the McKenzie Brook
we will be hosting spring and summer field events. Look for event
details soon, and please let us know if you would like to host one
on your farm. We will discuss: New RAP rule on buffers in effect April 15, 2017. All farmers covered under the RAPs will be required to have a 25-foot buffer on streams and a 10-foot buffer on ditches. Let’s face it, this will mean adjusting plowing and planting practices this spring.
Grassed waterways. Although not mandated, these can be very
effective, particularly where other practices aren’t enough to
prevent gully erosion.

Planter Clinics: Getting Ready to No-Till

For the third year, our team is hosting no-till corn planter clinics in coordination with Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition. Are you on our e-mail list to find out dates and details? Like conventional till, successful no-till comes down to healthy soil, a properly set-up planter, and the right timing: they’re even more critical since you can’t correct mistakes with an extra harrow pass!

No-Till Resources at
www.uvm.edu/extension/cvcrops
Including Factsheets, No-Till Corn Planter Tune Up Checklist, and Closing Wheel Guide

Upcoming No-Till Planter Clinic Event:
  • April 6, 2017 at Gosliga Farm in Addison, VT from 10 am to 12 pm, located on Sunset Lane (off Rte 17). For more information about this event, see our flyer or contact Rico Balzanzo at (802) 773-3340 ext. 281

Upcoming Events: March and Early April, 2017

Events hosted or with programing support by us -the Champlain Valley Crop, Soil and Pasture Team:

  • Nutrient Management Planning Update Workshop. Tuesday March 7, 10am-2pm, Middlebury Extension Office.This workshop is part of a series for previous attendees of our NMP classes to update their plan for 2017. Additional days by appointment, contact Kirsten (802-388-4969 ext. 347).
  • Custom Manure Applicator Training. Wednesday March 8, 10am-2pm, Vergennes American Legion this location has changed. This workshop is part of a series of classes for custom manure applicators only. Contact Nate for more information (802-388-4969 ext. 348). Coordinated with the Northwest Crop and Pasture team.
  • Following the New Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) in the Floodplain – for farmers. March 16, Conants Riverside Farm, Richmond and April 4, Middlebury Extension Office, 10am-12pm. Both workshops will be discussing floodplain agriculture including: manure spreading ban, incorporation of manure, cover crops on annual cropland, and limitations of stacked manure. For more information contact Nate (802-388-4969 ext. 348).
  • Manure Training for Farm Applicators. March 21, Woodnotch Farm, Shoreham and March 23, Leach Farmily Farm, Pawlett, 10am-2pm. For custom applicators, farmers and seasonal farm employees. Addressing RAPS – topics include: buffers along surface water and ditches, manure spreading ban dates, soil conditions for manure application, how to read a nutrient management plan (NMP), methods to minimize run-off of manure and its associated nutrients, and record keeping requirements. For more information contact Nate (802-388-4969 ext. 348).
  • No-Till Planter Clinic. April 6, Gosliga Farm, Addison, 10am-2pm. For more information contact Rico (802-773-3349 ext. 281).
More information or questions about any of these events can be obtained by contacting our office.
802-388-4969 ~ 23 Pond Lane, Suite 300 Middlebury, VT 05753
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Events hosted by other affiliates:
  • Organic Dairy Producers Conference. March 9, 9am-4pm, Vermont Technical College. Hosted by the UVM Ext. North West Crops and Soils Team. More information can be found here.
  • Annual Grain Growers Conference. March 23, 9am-5pm, The Essex Resort & Spa. Hosted by the UVM Ext. North West Crops and Soils Team. More information can be found here.
  • Commercial Pesticide Applicator Training. March 30, 8:30am-4:00pm, Middlebury American Legion. For more information contact Ann Hazelrigg (802-656-0493)
  • Listening Tour: Agency of Agriculture (VAAFM).Ongoing, multiple dates and locations. More information can be found here.
  • Farm Business and Budget Clinics. UVM Extension. Ongoing, multiple dates and locations. More information can be found here.
Other News:
  • Winter Manure Spreading Ban will be lifted April 1, 2017. Even after this date the VT Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) prohibits spreading on frozen, saturated or snow covered ground. Questions should be directed to VAAFM.

2017 No-Till & Cover Crop Symposium

cover_graphicUVM Extension Annual No Till & Cover Crop Symposium

Join us on February 16, 2017 at the Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center in Burlington, Vermont

Time: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm

Cost: $80 or $40 for graduate students …lunch, snacks, coffee/beverages included

Register Online: go.uvm.edu/ntcc

Questions about registration can be directed to Karen Gallott [802-388-4969, karen.gallott@uvm.edu]

CCA and Pesticide Credits will be available

Coming Soon: Sponsor link, Brochure, and Graduate Student Poster Session.

The UVM Extension’s Champlain Valley Crop, Soil & Pasture Team & the Northwest Crops & Soils Program invite all farmers and technical advisers to attend this event dedicated to No-Till and Cover Crop systems for field crop growers in our area.  We are welcoming speakers from around the country and from Vermont – including Extension specialists, researchers, farmers and consultants.

Speakers confirmed so far:

  • Dr. John Tooker, Penn State University
  • Mark Anderson, Land View Farms, LLC
  • UVM Faculty & Staff
  • Farmer Panel

To book a room at the Sheraton at the special rate of $109 plus tax, contact the Sheraton at (800)325-3535. Request UVM Extension No Till & Crop Symposium Room Block.  Cutoff Date for special rate is February 3, 2017.

To request a disability related accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Karen Gallott at 802-388-4969 or toll free in  Vermont at 1-800-956-1125 by January 23, 2017 so we may assist you.

Fall 2016 Cover Crop Field Days

Cover Crop Field Day:
Tuesday October 25, 2016
The Champlain Valley Crop, Soils, and Pasture Team will lead a hands-on discussion of benefits cover crop mixes hosted by Chuck Farr and Ashley Farr and families. Farr Farms is a multi-generational dairy operation; Chuck Farr focuses on crop production while his son, Ashley, and his family manages the dairy. Here, we will discuss the many opportunities that winter rye, grown as a seed crop, can offer. We will also take a look at large blocks of 8 different combinations of legumes, brassicas and cereal grains and discuss the benefits and challenges of these systems. We will be looking at cover crops that we drilled with our no-till grain drill.

This cover crop field day is part of a series hosted in conjunction with the UVM Ext. Northwest Crops and Soils Team and the Vegetable and Berry Program.

When: Tuesday October 25, 2016 at 1pm – 3pm
Where: 491 Huntington Rd, Farr Family Farm, Richmond, VT – google maps
RSVP: Register here
or contact Kirsten Workman
at (802)-388-4969 347; kirsten.workman@uvm.edu
See our Fall 2016 Cover Crop Flyer – for a description of all events!
Other Cover Crop Field Days (each day from 1pm – 3pm):
  • October 26, at Foote Brook Farm in Johnson, VT
  • October 27, a tour of cover crops at farms in St. Albans, VT
  • October 28, a look at research plots in Alburgh, VT

Special thanks to the Farr Family.   

To request a disability-related accommodation to participate in this program, contact Susan Brouillette by 10/17/16 at 802-524-6501 or toll-free in VT at 1-800-639-2130 so we may assist you.

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Another Corn Hybrid Field Day – This Week!

The Champlain Valley Crop, Soils, and Pasture Team will have a field day September 1, at the Clifford Farm in Starksboro, VT to see a corn hybrid demonstration, comparing shorter season to longer season corn hybrids (83-89 day vs. a  96-day).  This is a FREE EVENT with lunch provided by Wolf River Valley Seeds, Renaissance Nutrition & Marcel Moreau.

When: Thursday, September 1, 2016, from 11 am to 1 pm
Where: Clifford Farm, 6147 VT Route 116, Starksboro (the field is next door to the Cliffords’ house, just south of the farm.  Look for the signs!)
RSVP: champlain.crops@uvm.edu
OR CALL: 802-388-4969 or toll free in VT at 1-800-956-1125

Research in northern VT has suggested that hybrid, as opposed to just day length, is important in determining corn yield.  Shorter season corn hybrids were planted at multiple sites to demonstrate which of them perform as well as longer season hybrids.  The objective is to find optimum day length to balance yield, performance on local soils, and have time in the fall for successful cover crop seeding and establishment.

After lunch there will be the opportunity to look at a field that was no-tilled after first cut hay and check out the farm’s new no-till closing wheels.

Corn To request a disability-related accommodation to participate in this program, contact Karen Gallott, UVM Extension by 8/30/2016 at 802-388-4969 or toll-free in Vermont at 1-800-956-1125 so we may assist you.

RenaiWolfRiver

 

 

 

 

ThisUSDA NIFA Logo material is based upon work that is supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2014-68006-21864. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

 

Upcoming Crop Field Days!

Join us for two upcoming events looking at cropping systems in Addison and Rutland County.

 

  • August 26th 11 am – 2 pm:

    Corn Variety Trial Demonstration. We will be looking at a whole series of corn silage varieties planted side-by-side to examine development and potential for earlier harvest for better establishment ofCorn a cover crop. We will also have time after lunch to see other cover crop/no-till fields. This event is FREE and THERE WILL BE A CATERED LUNCH. Yes, you read that right, free catered lunch! So grab your farm friends and get excited (hopefully) for short(er) season corn. More information can be found on our flyer: Corn Trial Field Day 8-26-16, or by contacting Kirsten Workman [kirsten.workman@uvm.edu, 802-388-4969 x 347]. Vorsteveld Farm, 3925 Panton Rd. Panton, VT

    Special thanks to Crop Production Services for providing lunch.

  • August 30th, 12 – 2 pm:

    Crop Patrol in the Southern Champlain Valley. Join us CropPatroland the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition as we ‘tour’ neighboring fields to look at no-till corn, alfalfa and annual ryegrass. The event will begin at Dorset Peak Jerseys, in Danby, VT – 468 Danby Mt. Rd. More information can be found on our flyer: crop patrol 8-30-16, or by contacting Rico Balzano [rico.balzano@uvm.edu, 802-388-4969 x 338]. This event is free.

 

 

University of Vermont Extension and U.S. Department of Agriculture, cooperating, offer education and employment to everyone without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or familial status. To request a disability related accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Karen Gallott at (802) 388-4969 or 1-800-956-1125 (toll-free in Vt. only) by August 22, 2016 (first event) and August 27, 2016 (second event).

Join Us At Addison County Fair & Field Days! And…. bring your submission to our crops exhibit!

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Hey Folks, Addison County Fair and Field Days is coming up August 9 – 13th and we are looking forward to your entries. Help us show and tell the general public about the crops you grow and use your prize winnings on fair treats for the family!
 2016 ADDISON COUNTY FAIR & FIELD DAYS
Bring in your crop entries:

Monday, August 8, 2016 – 8 AM to 12 noon

FIELD CROPS ENTRY RULES
  1. A farm may have only one (1) entry in each class. All entries must be produced on the exhibitor’s farm.
  2. Bring exhibits to the 4-H Exhibit Building on Monday, August 8th between 8:00 AM and 12:00 noon-This is the only time to enter!
  3. Entries must be tagged using Field Days’ tags: grower name, farm name, address, class, & variety.
  4. Entries will be judged and awarded ribbons as follows: Excellent – Blue;   Good – Red;  Fair – White;
Rosettes for Best of Class and Best of Show.
  1. Premiums paid:          Blue – $15             Red – $10              White – $5
Best of Each Class – $25     Overall Best of Show – $50
CROP CLASSES
1.   Corn Plants – 3 whole plants with roots intact
2.   Soybean – 5 whole plants with roots intact
3.   Cereal Grains-Wheat, Barley, Oats, Rye – bundle
4.   Corn Silage – 1 Quart Jar
5.   Snaplage or ground ear corn – 1 Quart Jar
6.   Grass Haylage – 1 Quart Jar
7.   Legume Haylage- 1 Quart Jar
8.   Dry Hay-Legume – 1 Slice of a Bale
9.   Dry Hay-Grass- 1 Slice of a Bale
10. Dry Hay-Mixed legume/grass – 1 Slice of a Bale
11. Wrapped Baleage Hay – 1 Gallon zip-lock bag
12. Corn Grain Whole – 1 Quart Jar
13. Corn Grain Ground- 1 Quart Jar
14. Soybean Grain Whole – 1 Quart Jar
15. Cereal Grain Whole – 1 Quart Jar
16. OTHER Pulse OR Brassuca Seed Whole- 1 Quart Jar
Addison County Fair Website: http://www.addisoncountyfielddays.com/
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