- Author: Chris M. Webb
The NCAT Sustainable Agriculture Project provides “high value information and technical assistance to farmers, rancher, Extension agents, educators, and others” throughout the United States.
Founded in 1976, this nonprofit organization works to “promote self-reliance and sustainable lifestyles through wise use of appropriate technology. Its programs deal with sustainable and renewable energy, energy conservation, resource-efficient housing, sustainable community development, and sustainable agriculture.” These resources are available in Spanish.
Their information is organized under 14 topic areas:
- What is sustainable agriculture?
- Education
- Energy alternatives
- Beginning farmer
- Field crops
- Horticultural crops
- Livestock & pasture
- Local food systems
- Marketing, business & risk management
- Organic farming
- Pest management
- Soils & compost
- Water management
- Other resources
A variety of funding opportunities are available.
- Author: Chris M. Webb
SAREP is a statewide program within the University of California’s Agriculture and Natural Resources division. From their site:
“SAREP provides leadership and support for scientific research and education in agricultural and food systems that are economically viable, conserve natural resources and biodiversity, and enhance the quality of life in the state's communities. SAREP serves farmers, farmworkers, ranchers, researchers, educators, regulators, policy makers, industry professionals, consumers, and community organizations across the state."
Program areas are:
- biologically integrated farming systems
- community food systems
- crop/livestock production
- organic farming information
- methyl bromide alternatives
Related resources, reports, funding opportunities and much more can be easily accessed from this well laid out site.
- Author: Chris M. Webb
Nationwide, through the month of September, we are reminded of the importance of being prepared for disasters. Disasters can strike at anytime. Proper preparation and response can literally mean the difference between life and death.
The Extension Disaster Education Network strives to reduce the impact of disasters through education. The topics and resources on this site are extensive. Some of the resources are available in Spanish.
In addition to online resources course materials, including PowerPoint presentations, are available for use at no cost.
Why not spend a few minutes today and take a step towards better disaster preparation at your home or workplace? Odds are it will be time well spent.
- Author: Chris M. Webb
Farming operations may create places where mosquitoes can breed and live. In addition to other potential problems, mosquitoes can carry diseases to people, livestock and pets -- some of which can be fatal.
Luckily there are several practical steps that can be taken on the farm or ranch to help keep mosquito born diseases from becoming established. UC’s free publication, Managing Mosquitoes on the Farm can provide instruction and guidance, including:
- Why you should care about mosquito control
- West Nile virus
- You may be raising the mosquito that is biting you
- Three basic principles of mosquito prevention
- Natural waters associated with farms
- Managing stagnant waters created by agricultural activities
- Irrigated fields for upland crops
- Mosquito-free irrigated pastures
- Rice
- Dairy operations
- Biological and chemical mosquito control
- Common mosquitoes and their life cycles
- Author: Chris M. Webb
Agricultural producers can increase revenue by adding value to basic agricultural products. This can be achieved in many ways including: branding, processing, product differentiation, and labeling and certification.
USDA’s Value Added Producer Grants (VAPG) program “includes projects that market inherently value-added production, such as organic crops, grass-fed livestock and locally produced and marketed food products.
Award sizes vary. To find out more, please visit this page of the USDA website. Additional information can be found from the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.