Test PB Collection: FTE

Farming without irrigation, or "dry farming," was once widely used in Marin County. Today, with specialty agriculture growing in our semi-arid county landscape, the ability and skills needed to dry farm are valuable.

Saving seed can be an integral part of every commercial farm no matter what the scale. Using your own seed and selling excess seed are economically viable alternatives to purchasing commercially produced seed not adapted to your region.

Composting on-farm reduces the need for bringing in outside inputs for crop farmers, and adds another income stream and efficiency to animal agriculture operations.

Cover crops have become a cornerstone for organic farming fertility management. This on-farm workshop will look at the use of common cover crops to increase and maintain fertility. We will also highlight the basics of soil fertility management, nutrient uptake, and soil microbiology.

From farmstead cheese to organic ice cream to intensely flavored jams and jellies, Marin County farmers and ranchers are setting a new standard for quality and innovation as they develop ways to increase the value of their farms and farm products.

Marin County has a successful past in cut flower production. The cool, coastal climate here is ideal for a variety of specialty cut flowers. High quality cut flower production is an emerging niche market.

On October 22, 2002, the USDA National Organic Program went into effect creating a common organic standard for growers, processors, and handlers nationwide. The organic community worked for a decade on this new rule, and many view it as a major turning point for the movement.

Our hilly terrain with abundant forage is well suited for small specialty animal agriculture. Today, the farmstead specialty cheese market, including high quality goat and sheep cheese products, is rich with opportunities.

What is organic farming? What do I need to set-up my organic row crop operation? What about irrigation and dry farming conditions? These topics as well as the whole field of organic farming principles were covered by UC Cooperative Extension experts and local farmers in this panel discussion.

This workshop explored direct marketing alternatives, with emphasis on adding smaller scale enterprises to an existing farm or ranch operation. Selling direct to your customers can give you a larger share of the food dollar.