Blogs | August 2012

Jane Sooby's picture

Surviving the Drought with Organic Practices

Jane Sooby | Aug. 31st - 3:00pm

Despite the drought that has been withering his neighbors' fields, organic farmer Klaas Martens, is anticipating a year of good crop yields and way above average crop income.

The reason?

Klaas isn't locked into the typical corn/soybean rotations that his neighbors are. The diversity of crops that he grows allows him to be more flexible in dealing with what the weather hands him. Because spring came early and hot this year, Klaas was able to harvest spring grains early and then plant a second crop into his fields. He chose drought and heat-tolerant forage crops like buckwheat, sorghum, and forage soybeans as his “double crops,” all of which are doing well. An added benefit is that the forages will be in great demand because the drought has reduced availability of feed grains and pasture.

Udi Lazimy's picture

They're Listening... REALLY!

Udi Lazimy | Aug. 29th - 12:01pm

With Congress in your districts on recess during August and some of September, it's the perfect time for you to meet with your Representative and staff.  We've been telling our Representative how important organic agriculture is for our region, economy and families for the past several days.

Local organic engagement is most important NOW.  Your words carry tremendous impact with legislators, especially leading up to a big election. Farmers and advocates  are rocking organic across the country. In New York State, organic farmers held an event with Congressman Chris Gibson to talk about the farm bill and celebrate organic agriculture. 

Faith Grant's picture

How 'Bout We Give Farmers 'Recess'?

Faith Grant | Aug. 28th - 9:00am

While it's sleepy on the Hill, there is always action within your district.  Farmers markets are hoppin'.  Kids are getting ready to go back to school.

There are only eight days on the legislative calendar before Congress breaks again for a big campaign push.  On recess, your Senators and Representatives are making the rounds in their home states and districts.  Many of them are getting an earful about the drought and it's impact on farmers and farmland across the country.  So far, Congress has failed to provide farmers with any relief.  It being campaign season, no one wants to take “tough votes” on the Farm Bill or even a short-term disaster measure that would make a difference.

Jane Sooby's picture

When 100% Organic Beer Means Organic

Jane Sooby | Aug. 17th - 12:00am

It seems a no-brainer: organic beer is made with organic hops, right? 

Not necessarily. In 2007, conventional beer makers who wanted to jump on the organic bandwagon persuaded the USDA that there wasn’t enough organic hop production to meet supply.  They were granted an exemption from using organic hops.

Maureen Wilmot's picture

"What’s for dinner?"

Maureen Wilmot | Aug. 6th - 4:16pm

I look over our table and am constantly amazed at the people behind the healthy food we eat.