NASDA News- February 2, 2010

NASDA MID-YEAR LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE BEGINS THURSDAY
Published: February 02, 2010

The commissioners, directors and secretaries of the state and territorial departments of agriculture will gather in Washington, DC February 4 through 8 for NASDA’s Mid-Year Legislative Conference.  NASDA members will have the opportunity to meet and hear from a number of senior administration officials and policy experts during the conference.  Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, EPA Deputy Administrator Bob Perciasepe, and FDA Deputy Commissioner for Food Mike Taylor will address NASDA’s plenary session on Friday, February 5 in a discussion that will be moderated by former Agriculture Secretary Jack Block. The members will also have an opportunity to discuss animal welfare issues with USDA officials and the National Pollution Discharge Elimination Permit case that has been submitted to the Supreme Court during a plenary session on Friday. NASDA will also host a luncheon reception at the U.S. Capitol on Thursday for Members of Congress and their agriculture policy staffers. (Contact: Farm Policy Staff)

POLICY COMMITTEES PLAN ACTIVE AGENDAS
Published: February 02, 2010

NASDA’s policy committees and task forces are planning to address key topics on food safety, renewable energy, environmental regulations, specialty crops, rural development, and other issues when state agriculture leaders hold their midyear meeting this week.

The Food Regulation and Nutrition Committee, chaired by North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler, will have an opportunity to discuss issues of mutual interest with Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan on February 6.  Joe Reardon, FDA’s Acting Director of Federal State Relations will discuss the potential for an expanding partnership between FDA and the states. The committee plans to discuss a number of issues including food safety, interstate meat shipment, and nutrition programs.

NASDA’s Natural Resources, Pesticide Management & Environment Committee will address regulatory and legislative issues dealing with NPDES permits for pesticide applications, water quality, and EPA’s actions related to atrazine in its meeting on Saturday, February 6 at 3:00pm. The committee will also host a panel discussion entitled “Looking Ahead, Working Together: Agriculture, Conservation & the Environment” which will feature panelists from EPA, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, American Farm Bureau, National Association of Conservation Districts, and the American Farmland Trust.  Tim Creger, President of the Association of American Pesticide Control Officials (AAPCO) will discuss a number of pesticide-related issues including NPDES permits, soil fumigants, spray-drift.  Utah Agriculture Commissioner Leonard Blackham is Chairman of the committee and Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey serves as Vice Chairman.

The Animal and Plant Industries Committee meeting will be chaired by Mississippi Commissioner, Dr. Lester Spell. It meets on February 7, with much of the agenda focusing on APHIS issues. Ed Avalos, Undersecretary, MRP, and Cindy Smith, APHIS Administrator, will be on hand to provide key priorities and issues of interest. Many of the Deputy Administrators of APHIS will be on hand to highlight priority programs of mutual interest. Mr. Frank Lowenstein of the Nature Conservancy will discuss efforts relating to non-native forest pests and diseases and partnerships between NGOs, state and federal entities to reduce the impacts on the environment. Also in the agenda will be a discussion on DHS port inspection led by Mr. Kevin Harriger, CBP, DHS.  The committee will also have a discussion on the influence of disease on land management of the bighorn sheep industry led by Margaret Soulen Hinson, Vice President of the American Sheep Industry Association.

The Marketing and International Trade Committee, chaired by Commissioner Hugh Weathers of South Carolina, will meet on February 7. USDA’s Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, John Ferrell, will discuss the Department’s approach to addressing anti-trust/anti-competition concerns. Following Mr. Ferrell will be Secretary Roger Albee of Vermont who will discuss options for balancing supply and demand in the dairy industry.  Deputy Administrator Robert Riemenschneider of FAS/USDA will give an FAS update on trade agreements and negotiations. Closing the speaker session will be Executive Director Christine Bushway and Director of Policy and External Relations Laura Batcha to discuss some common issues with the Organic Trade Association.

The Rural Development and Financial Security Committee, led by Montana Agriculture Director Ron de Yong, will convene on February 7.  Director de Yong is excited to have an excellent panel titled, “Keeping American Agriculture Strong: The Future of the Farm Safety Net.”  The panel, which will consist of USDA-RMA Administrator William Murphy, USDA-FSA Administrator Jonathan Coppess, Former USDA RMA Administrator Ken Ackerman, and Chandler Goule of the National Farmers Union, will certainly bring about a vibrant discussion on the farm safety net, crop insurance and disaster assistance - what works, what doesn’t, and how we could we make it better.  After the panel, Craig Regelbrugge, Co-chairman of the Agriculture Coalition for Immigration Reform, will provide an update for committee members on the status of immigration reform in Congress and recent regulatory actions taken by the Administration.  As one of Washington’s foremost experts on immigration, Mr. Regelbrugge will undoubtedly provide for a well-needed dialogue on the critical farm labor issue.  The agenda for the meeting also focuses on several other pertinent issues to NASDA Members, which will likely include the estate tax and captive rail reform, amongst other issues facing rural America. 

The Food and Agriculture Security Task Force will meet on February 5 and will address financial assistance for agriculture defense programs, Dr. Doug Meckes and Dr. Sebastian Heath of DHS will discuss several key programs aimed at assisting and supporting states emergency preparedness efforts. Dr. Tony Carver, also of DHS and a previous State Veterinarian (SC), will provide an update on his role within infrastructure protection.

The Tri-National Agricultural Accord will meet via conference calls on February 4 and 5 for a mid-year briefing.  NASDA members along with their Canadian and Mexican counterparts will get an update on the issues that were discussed at the annual meeting in Gimli, Manitoba last August. Thursday’s agenda includes an update on the tri-lateral working groups for harmonization and rural development during the first hour.  In addition, the US delegation will propose moving the annual meeting to a biennial schedule in response to the economic constraints all three countries are currently facing.  Afterward, the US/Mexico Bi-lateral Working Group will meet to hear an update of their 2009-2010 Work Plan.  The US/Canada Bi-lateral Working Group will meet at noon on February 5 for an update on their work plan. This will be an excellent opportunity for NASDA members who are unfamiliar with the Tri-National Agricultural Accord to learn more it. 

On February 5, the Energy Task Force will be convening to address critical energy-related issues currently facing agriculture.  The task force is pleased to welcome Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, to discuss the current state of the domestic biofuels industry, the ongoing regulatory efforts of the EPA, and a new initiative known as “COOL for fuel,” a push for country of origin labeling for fuel. Following Mr. Buis, Ernie Shea, project coordinator for 25x’25, will speak on a multitude of issues, including climate change legislation and renewable fuels regulations, along with a host of energy concerns on the farm.  The Task Force is led by Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Gene Hugoson.  

The Specialty Crops Task Force, chaired by California Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura, will meet on February 6.  Ms. Trista Etzig, project manager for USDA’s Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS) Fruit and Vegetable program will provide an update on the Specialty Crops Block Grant Program. Keith Jones, Staff Director for the House Agriculture Committee Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture will provide the Task Force members with a legislative perspective, including future farm bill considerations.

The Biotechnology Task Force will meet February 6 to hear an update from Michael Gregoire, Deputy Administrator of APHIS, on current issues at Biotechnology Regulatory Services. 

The Tobacco Task Force will convene during lunch on February 6 with a legislative update from Chairman Steve Troxler.  (Contact: Farm Policy Staff)

PRESIDENT RELEASES FY2011 BUDGET REQUEST, PROPOSES CUTS TO FARM SAFETY NET
Published: February 02, 2010

On February 1, 2010, President Obama released a $3.8 trillion budget proposal for fiscal year 2011.  The proposal is a recommended level of spending and revenue for the coming fiscal year, and is utilized as a platform to set forth the key policy initiatives of the White House.  Preparing the President's budget is certainly no easy task, especially with unemployment hovering around 10 percent nationwide and the federal deficit near $1.6 trillion, which consequently represents the largest percentage of the GDP, 10.6%, since World War II. 

Once again, USDA is looking at significant cuts, with a total reduction of over $1 billion in discretionary budget authority.  Below is a list of the key priorities for the White House as laid out in their budget documents, along with a number of their recommended cuts for the agency:  

• $34.5 million in discretionary spending, which is double the current level, for the Foreign Market Development Program. 

• $7.6 billion for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

• $10 billion over 10 years for a Child Nutrition and WIC reauthorization.

• $50 million for a new “Healthy Food Financing Initiative” to bring grocery stores and other healthy food retailers to underserved communities.

• $429 million - the highest funding level ever - for competitive grants through the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative.

 Recommended Cuts

• Proposes reducing the cap on Direct Payments by 25 percent, and reducing each of the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) commodity payment eligibility limits for farm and non-farm income by $250,000 over three years.  

• Proposes to reduce the Market Access Program by 20 percent.

• Through the Standard Reinsurance Agreement, USDA assumes reduced costs leading to $8 billion in savings over ten years.

• Eliminate cotton and peanut storage payments.

• Eliminate the USDA Health Care Services grants program; proposes to support health care services in rural areas through HHS programs.

• Eliminate the Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Program.

• Proposes no new funding for USDA’s Agriculture Research Service (ARS).  Also, the budget proposes the cancellation of $75.5 million in existing balances from previously approved facility construction funding,

For more information on the President’s FY2011 Budget, including further analysis, official budget documents, and more, please visit NASDA’s FY2011 Budget and Appropriations Resources page.  (Contact: Farm Policy Staff)

USDA SEEKS APPLICATIONS FOR SPECIALTY CROP BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM-FARM BILL FUNDS
Published: February 02, 2010

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has invited state departments of agriculture in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to submit applications for grant funds under the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program-Farm Bill.

On January 29, USDA announced the availability of approximately $55 million for block grants to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) administers the program.

Each state that submits an application that is reviewed and approved by AMS will receive a minimum grant amount of at least $100,000, or up to one-third of 1 percent of the total amount of funding made available in fiscal year 2010, whichever is greater.

In addition, AMS will allocate the remainder of the grant funds based on the value of specialty crop production in each state in relation to the national value of specialty crop production using the latest available cash receipt data.

States may wish to consider submitting grants that increase the competitiveness of specialty crop farmers, including Native American and disadvantaged farmers. Increasing competiveness may include developing local and regional food systems, and improving food access in underserved communities.  (By: Brett Schubert; Contact: Amy Mann)

VILSACK FILLS TRADE AND FOOD AID POSTS
Published: February 02, 2010

Last week Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced new appointments for key trade and food-aid positions at USDA.  Darci Vetter will replace Burnham (Bud) Philbrook as deputy undersecretary for farm and foreign agricultural services. Vetter previously served at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative as director of agricultural affairs and sustainable development and is currently a Senate Finance Committee Democratic staffer.

Vilsack appointed John Brewer as administrator of the Foreign Agricultural Service. Brewer previously served as the associate administrator and then acting administrator since December, after Vilsack assigned Michael Michener, the previous administrator, as his representative in the U.S. embassy to the United Nations food agencies in Rome.  Janet Nuzum, former commissioner for the International Trade Commission, will replace Brewer as associate administrator. Nuzum previously served as a House Ways and Means staffer and aide to former Rep. Cal Dooley, D-Calif.

Vilsack has also named Ann Tutwiler as his global food and security adviser. Tutwiler was previously president and chief executive officer of the International Food & Agriculture Trade Policy Council and recently became administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development.  (By: Brett Schubert; Contact: Amy Mann)

US-PERU LABOR AFFAIRS COUNCIL HOLDS FIRST MEETING
Published: February 02, 2010

On January 28 in Lima, Peru the first meeting of the Labor Affairs Council established under the United States-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA).  Officials from USTR's Labor Office and Americas Office, the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of State, and the U.S. Agency for International Development participated along with counterparts from the Government of Peru held.

The American delegation was led by Carol Pier, associate deputy undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of International Labor Affairs, and included representatives of the Office of the United States Trade Representative, the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development.

The meeting was hosted by Peruvian Vice-Minister of Labor Dr. Elisabed Zevallos Laguna and included other officials from Peru's Ministry of Labor, as well as that country's Ministry of Economy. The council is responsible for overseeing the implementation of, and reviewing progress under, the PTPA's Labor Chapter.

Meeting participants focused on commitments to adopt and maintain in law and practice the rights stated in the International Labor Organization Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.  A public session with workers and other civil society organizations, employers and the general public was also held. (Contact: Amy Mann)

EDA OFFERS $37 MILLION FOR TRADE ADJUSTED COMMUNITIES
Published: February 02, 2010

The Economic Development Administration invites proposals to distribute $37 million through the Community Trade Adjustment Assistance Program. Funds are available for communities that have experienced, or are threatened by, job loss resulting from international trade impacts. Communities must be certified as eligible for trade adjusted assistance.

Funding can be used for planning, technical or infrastructure projects that could involve innovation and entrepreneurship. Proposals are due April 20. Funds will be disbursed through EDA's six regional offices. (Contact: Amy Mann)

USDA-NASS TO MEASURE THE FINANCIAL HEALTH OF THE AG INDUSTRY
Published: February 02, 2010

Starting in February, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will conduct its Agricultural Resource Management Survey (ARMS). This survey will provide farmers with an opportunity to provide accurate, real-world data that will help shape the policies, programs and issues that affect them.

ARMS asks a small, but representative, sample of farmers about their operation in order to understand the current financial state of agriculture. Participation in ARMS is important because government and agricultural leaders use the information needed to make sound decisions that impact the future of farmers, their families, their businesses and their communities.

The survey will be conducted between February and March.  In an effort to obtain the most accurate data, NASS will reach out to nearly 35,000 producers nationwide. Producers will be asked to provide data on their operating expenditures, capital improvements, labor use, assets and debt, production costs and household characteristics.  Farm organizations, commodity groups, agribusiness, Congress, and the USDA use information from ARMS to evaluate the financial performance of farm/ranch businesses and to make policy decisions affecting agriculture. The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) uses ARMS data to calculate the farm sector portion of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the nation.

As with all NASS surveys, information provided by respondents is confidential by law. NASS safeguards the confidentiality of all responses, ensuring no individual respondent or operation can be identified. The economic data gathered in ARMS will be published in the annual Farm Production Expenditures report on August 3, 2010. All NASS reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov.  (Contact: Charlie Ingram)

2010 NATIONAL PORK PRODUCERS DELEGATE BODY APPOINTED
Published: February 02, 2010

Last week, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack appointed the 2010 National Pork Producers Delegate Body, a collection of pork producers and importers from around the nation.  Originally established under the Pork Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1985, the appointees, who serve a one-year term, are responsible for recommending annual rate of assessments, determining the percentage of assessments that state associations will receive, as well as nominate producers and importers for the National Pork Board.  For more information on the National Pork Producers Delegate Body, along with a complete list of the appointees, please visit the USDA’s Agriculture Marketing Service website. (Contact: Amy Mann)

USDA POSTS COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELING ON YOUTUBE
Published: February 02, 2010

USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service has updated the agency's country-of-origin labeling website to provide a link to a YouTube clip about the program. To access the clip, go to ams.usda/gov/cool and click on the first bullet point underneath the "Spot Lights" heading. (Contact: Amy Mann)

PRESIDENT OBAMA DELIVERS FIRST STATE OF THE UNION: BRIEF EXCERPTS FOR AGRICULTURE
Published: January 28, 2010

Last night, President Barack Obama delivered his inaugural State of the Union address. Each year, as directed by the U.S. Constitution, the President “shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.” During his remarks, President Obama focused on the economy, the federal deficit, health care, and the battle against terrorism.  

Here are a few excerpts from President Obama’s remarks that may be of interest to folks in the agriculture community…

Trade:    “…we need to export more of our goods. Because the more products we make and sell to other countries, the more jobs we support right here in America. So tonight, we set a new goal: We will double our exports over the next five years, an increase that will support two million jobs in America. To help meet this goal, we're launching a National Export Initiative that will help farmers and small businesses increase their exports, and reform export controls consistent with national security.

We have to seek new markets aggressively, just as our competitors are. If America sits on the sidelines while other nations sign trade deals, we will lose the chance to create jobs on our shores. But realizing those benefits also means enforcing those agreements so our trading partners play by the rules. And that's why we'll continue to shape a Doha trade agreement that opens global markets, and why we will strengthen our trade relations in Asia and with key partners like South Korea and Panama and Colombia.”

Energy and Climate Change:    “…But to create more of these clean energy jobs, we need more production, more efficiency, more incentives. And that means building a new generation of safe, clean nuclear power plants in this country. It means making tough decisions about opening new offshore areas for oil and gas development. It means continued investment in advanced biofuels and clean coal technologies. And, yes, it means passing a comprehensive energy and climate bill with incentives that will finally make clean energy the profitable kind of energy in America. 

I am grateful to the House for passing such a bill last year. And this year I'm eager to help advance the bipartisan effort in the Senate. 

I know there have been questions about whether we can afford such changes in a tough economy. I know that there are those who disagree with the overwhelming scientific evidence on climate change. But here's the thing -- even if you doubt the evidence, providing incentives for energy-efficiency and clean energy are the right thing to do for our future -- because the nation that leads the clean energy economy will be the nation that leads the global economy. And America must be that nation.”

The Economy (brief mention of rural America):   “… But the devastation remains. One in 10 Americans still cannot find work. Many businesses have shuttered. Home values have declined. Small towns and rural communities have been hit especially hard. And for those who'd already known poverty, life has become that much harder.

This recession has also compounded the burdens that America's families have been dealing with for decades -- the burden of working harder and longer for less; of being unable to save enough to retire or help kids with college.

So I know the anxieties that are out there right now. They're not new. These struggles are the reason I ran for President. These struggles are what I've witnessed for years in places like Elkhart, Indiana; Galesburg, Illinois. I hear about them in the letters that I read each night. The toughest to read are those written by children -- asking why they have to move from their home, asking when their mom or dad will be able to go back to work.”

Immigration: “…and we should continue the work of fixing our broken immigration system -- to secure our borders and enforce our laws, and ensure that everyone who plays by the rules can contribute to our economy and enrich our nation”

ND: STATE BANK EXTENDS AG DISASTER LOAN PROGRAM
Published: February 02, 2010

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring says the State Industrial Commission’s decision to extend the Farm Disaster Relief Loan Program is a direct response to the problems producers are facing because of unusually harsh weather conditions and collapsed beef prices.

“Many producers have been impacted – some severely – by last year’s weather events, coupled with a depressed market for beef,” Goehring said. “Extending the disaster loan program for several months will help producers get a good handle on their current financial situation.”

The Industrial Commission – Gov. John Hoeven, Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem and Goehring – which oversees the state-owned Bank of North Dakota, voted Monday to extend the disaster loan program until June.

“We have had record snowfall, major livestock losses, widespread flood damage and prevented planting, a late harvest and a collapsing market,” Goehring said. “All of this threw a curveball to producers who are now trying to market a smaller-than-expected calf crop and/or low-protein wheat. In either case, they cannot break even, and that’s causing a lot of anxiety.”

Goehring said the weather conditions and especially the late harvest mean that many producers are still closing out their 2009 books.

“There is still some corn out there to be harvested, and that means some producers do not know what their 2009 income will be, and they cannot service their debt,” he said. “BND will work with these operators and their local lenders to make sure the money is there for the upcoming crop season.”

Under the disaster program, BND can provide up to $500 thousand or 75 percent toward a loan for refinancing term debt or amortizing operating debt carryover. The loans can be made only to eligible farmers and only in cooperation with a local lender.

Goehring said that the Bank of North Dakota (BND) has other loan programs to help them get the money they need for 2010 operations or to restructure operating debt.

“Working with local lending institutions, the Bank of North Dakota can leverage additional funds needed for the upcoming crop season or to refinance an old loan,” Goehring said. “Through its Farm Operating Loan Program, BND can provide up to $400,000 or 65 percent of a 2010 farm operating loan to an eligible farm borrower,” Goehring said. “The rate on BND’s share of the operating loan is BND’s base rate less 1 percent, and is now 2.25 percent.”

The Family Farm Loan Program enables BND to provide an eligible producer with up to 90 percent of a term loan in participation with a local lender. The loan may be used to restructure operating debt carryover or to refinance debt on land, livestock or equipment. The rate on BND’s share of the loan is the same as the Farm Operating Loan Program.

The nation’s only state-owned back, the Bank of North Dakota was established in 1919 with the mission of "promoting agriculture, commerce and industry" in North Dakota.

More information on BND and its agricultural lending programs can be found at www.banknd.nd.gov.

NY: DEPARTMENT OF AG WARNS SARATOGA COUNTY CONSUMERS ABOUT RAW MILK
Published: February 02, 2010

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the State Department of Health warned consumers in Saratoga County and surrounding areas not to consume "unpasteurized" raw milk due to possible Campylobacter contamination. The state Health Department reported 5 incidents of Campylobacter enteritis, from people who have consumed raw unpasteurized milk purchased from Willow Marsh Farm. The farm has voluntarily suspended milk sales since it was first notified of the reported illnesses on January 22.

Preliminary tests concluded today at the New York State Food Laboratory found that raw unpasteurized milk produced at Willow Marsh Farm may be contaminated with Campylobacter. Final test results will be available in the coming week. If the raw milk sample is confirmed positive for Campylobacter, the producer will be prohibited from selling raw milk until the product is free of pathogens.  (Contact: Bob Ehart or Amy Mann)

VA: INTERACTIVE VIRGINIA GROWN WEB SITE SIMPLIFIES SEARCH FOR FRESH PRODUCE
Published: February 02, 2010

The very freshest and most delicious fruits, vegetables and other farm products are now just a click away.  At www.virginiagrown.com, even city dwellers can reap the rewards of farming. The concept is called Community Supported Agriculture or CSA, and it allows consumers to invest in a share of what someone else’s farm produces. Farms across Virginia are now signing up new members for 2010.

In a CSA, a group of individuals provides financial backing and perhaps some labor as well to support a farm operation for a year. In return, each member of the group receives a share of the farm’s output during the growing season. They share the bounty as well as the risks of harvests that may be affected by weather or other conditions. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has developed a list of CSAs at www.virginiagrown.com; click on Community Supported Farms by Region.

VDACS advises consumers to act now to take advantage of all that a CSA offers. The subscription services are gaining in popularity, so now is the time to explore the possibility of joining, before subscriptions are sold out.

CSAs offer a number of advantages.  Members know where all the food comes from, how it was grown, who harvested it and when. They learn to eat seasonally, enjoying foods that arrive according to nature’s timetable.  Everything the CSA provides is field-fresh, flavorful and nutritious because deliveries usually take place weekly, and the travel time and distance from farm to fork are kept to a minimum. 

Because of the wide variety of traditional, specialty, heirloom or even organic crops grown by CSA farmers, members can discover many new products and enjoy interesting new tastes. To help cooks make the most of their innovative ingredients, CSAs often distribute recipes and cooking tips. In addition to produce such as squash, cucumbers, spinach, eggplant, sweet corn, watermelon, lettuce, beans, peppers, tomatoes, chives, dill, cilantro, cabbage, collards, kale, oregano, broccoli, arugula, marjoram, chard, beets, peas and potatoes, CSA farms sometimes offer extras such as eggs, cut flowers, dairy products, plants, cheese, honey and bread. 

For help locating a CSA in your area visit virginiagrown.com or call the Division of Marketing at 804.225.3663.

KS: AG DEPARTMENT INTRODUCES GROUNDBREAKING LEGISLATION IN WATER POLICY
Published: February 02, 2010

The Kansas Department of Agriculture introduced legislation to promote the voluntary conservation of water Wednesday, marking a substantial shift in water policy from the previous half-century.

“In the past, water rights holders have been required to put to beneficial use their water right or risk losing the right to abandonment, which contributed to the notion of "use-it-or-lose-it."  Today, we are asking the legislature to approve a statutory change that would recognize conservation as a beneficial use,” said Josh Svaty, Secretary of Agriculture.  “The program would be voluntary, and would allow producers that wish to save water for future use or future generations to have that opportunity without risk of losing the property right they developed.” 

Previously, if a water right holder wished to keep their water right but not pump water, he could enroll it in the Water Rights Conservation Program (WRCP), a temporary program which was suspended due budget shortfalls in the fall of 2009.  “This is a solution for WRCP, but it also goes a significant step further,” said Svaty.  “We are now recognizing conservation as a beneficial use of our water resource, and allowing producers to make a voluntary decision to change their water rights to conservation water rights for as long as they wish.  Furthermore, we can manage this new system within our existing administrative resources, keeping fees static and solving the budget problem WRCP presented.”

The bill applies to all vested or perfected water rights statewide.  The water right holder would apply to change all or a portion of the water right from its current use to a conservation right.  If the water right holder wanted to use that water for a different purpose in the future, he or she would make a subsequent change application to the Division of Water Resources.

“Our water law has been historically focused on development and use of the resource,” said Svaty.  “However, the development of our resource in Kansas is clearly mature, and it is time that we progress toward a system of management that allows producers wanting to conserve to have that opportunity.” 

The bill was introduced in the Senate Agriculture Committee.  (Contact:  785-296-3902)

DE: BAKER BROTHERS RECEIVE SECRETARY’S AWARD FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE
Published: February 02, 2010

On Thursday, January 21, 2010, at the annual Agricultural Industry Dinner, Delaware Secretary of Agriculture, Ed Kee, presented the Secretary’s Award for Distinguished Service to David, Ed, and Robert Baker, of Middletown, Delaware.  The award was given in recognition of meritorious service to Delaware agriculture.

Kee said, “Tonight, I am recognizing three people, who individually have been recognized with awards and accolades through the years.  They are successful farmers and successful business men, and as such, a reflection of their parents, Warren and Kay Baker, who were very active in Delaware agriculture.  The Baker brothers were chosen because, collectively, they have dedicated more than 90 years of meritorious service to agriculture in the First State.  They exemplify the best of Delaware Agriculture.”

Kee continued, “In the past 30 years there has rarely been an agricultural issue or program in which at least one of the Baker brothers was not involved. Whatever the need, they have always stepped up to the plate when asked.”

The Baker brothers are longstanding members of the Delaware farming community who, together, operate a very successful farm in the Middletown area.  They are tireless public servants, dedicated to their families, their faith, and Delaware agriculture. To say that they are leaders is an understatement.  They have been:

• At the forefront of our nutrient management, water quality, and land-use efforts

• Taken leadership positions in the Council of Farm Organizations, commodity organizations, and county, state, and American farm bureaus.

• Been a voice for agriculture on committees, boards, and councils such as the Delaware Coastal Zone Regulatory Advisory Committee, WILMAPCO, Delaware River Basin Commission Watershed Advisory Council, and government taskforces and committees such as DEDO’s Industries of the Future Committee, the Governor’s Energy Advisory Council

• Been active in civic and community organizations

• All three brothers are graduates of the University of Delaware and have been avid supporters of the University since their graduation.  (Contact: Anne Fitzgerald, 302-698-4520)

CO: Governor's Forum on Agriculture to Look at Research Initiatives
Published: February 02, 2010

State and national leaders in the field of agriculture, including Gov. Bill Ritter, Commissioner of Agriculture John Stulp, Colorado State University President Tony Frank and CSU Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences Craig Beyrouty, will speak at the annual Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture on Thursday, Feb. 18 at the Renaissance Denver Hotel, 3801 Quebec St.

The forum themed, “Energizing Colorado Agriculture through Strategic Research,” will begin at 8 a.m. with opening remarks by Gov. Ritter and Commissioner Stulp.

Colorado State University President Frank will discuss the many ways that CSU connects with farmers and ranchers across the state. Colorado State is involved in a variety of interests from wheat research to livestock production including emerging markets, such as organics. Colorado State researchers are helping to answer questions surrounding food availability, food affordability and food safety.

CSU College of Agricultural Sciences Dean Beyrouty will detail some of the emerging and strategic research initiatives that are being developed hand-in-hand with the agricultural industry in the state.

There will also be featured national speakers and a series of breakout sessions highlighting crop research, livestock research, organics on the small acreage farm and crops for health.

A pre-forum reception will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17 at the Governor’s Residence at Boettcher Mansion.

Deadline for early registration is Feb. 8. The cost is $100 or $45 for students. After Feb. 8, registration is $120 or $50 for students. To register, visit www.colorado.gov/ag/forum or call (303) 239-4100.

The Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture is hosted by Gov. Ritter, the Colorado Department of Agriculture and Colorado State University with the support of the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Associates and more than 50 organizations, businesses and agencies interested in the future of Colorado agriculture.  (Contact: Jim Beers, 970-491-6401)

OK: USDA JOINS DAIRY FARMERS, NFL TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELLNESS IN SCHOOLS
Published: February 02, 2010

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has joined a campaign to fight and defeat childhood obesity in cooperation with the NFL, National Dairy Council, multiple health organizations and several major corporations. The campaign, known as Fuel Up to Play 60, is funded with an initial financial commitment by America’s Dairy Farmers and focuses on improving nutrient-rich food choices and achieving 60 minutes of physical activity each day among children. 

More than 58,000, or 60 percent, of the nation’s private and public schools are currently enrolled in Fuel Up to Play 60.  Here in Oklahoma, 1,058 schools now participate in the Fuel Up to Play 60 program.

It is possible that today’s children could become the first American generation with a shorter life expectancy than their parents. One-third of American children are overweight or obese. The obesity prevalence is about three to four times that of just one generation ago, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Today is a significant milestone in the fight against childhood obesity because this unprecedented partnership will help educate our youth about steps they can and should take to lead healthy lives,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Vilsack joins Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner, and Tom Gallagher, CEO of Dairy Management Inc., the managing organization for National Dairy Council to support and promote the initiative. Other organizations supporting Fuel Up to Play 60 are Action for Healthy Kids, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Dietetic Association, National Hispanic Medical Association, National Medical Association, and School Nutrition Association.

Based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the program empowers students “fuel up” with nutrient-rich foods they often lack – particularly low-fat and fat-free milk and milk products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains – and “get up and play” for 60 minutes each day. Components, developed for and by youth are customizable, non-prescriptive and help them meet local goals and school wellness policies.

The program taps the power of the NFL to add recognition and value for students. National Dairy Council’s trusted school relationships are crucial in implementing and sustaining the program. All 32 NFL teams are participating in the program through local dairy councils and schools in their respective markets.

By giving students both a voice and a valuable role in shaping the future of their generation, National Dairy Council, the NFL and USDA are providing concrete opportunities for children to lead real change in the fight against childhood obesity.  (Contact: Susan Allen, 405-282-4971)

MO: DEPARTMENT OF AG SEEKS GRAIN INSPECTION SERVICES PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR
Published: February 02, 2010

The Missouri Department of Agriculture is seeking a Grain Inspection Services program administrator. The program is the official USDA designated agency for grain inspection in all of Missouri.

Responsibilities include total management of the program including five field offices and approximately 60 employees. To be considered, candidates must have the ability to obtain USDA/FGIS licenses to sample and grade grain and to perform technician functions and USDA/AMA license to sample processed grain commodities within established timeframes. Substantial supervisory and management responsibility in a grain inspection service point or grain business is highly desired.  Salary commensurate with experience.  Click here for more information and to apply.

IN: INDIANA STATE DEPARTMENT OF AG RELOCATING FEBRUARY 1
Published: February 02, 2010

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture will be relocating to a new office effective February 1st, 2010. All mail and correspondence will need to be sent to the following new address;

Indiana State Department of Agriculture
One North Capitol Avenue
Suite 600
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

Note the phone numbers and fax line will remain the same (Office: 317-232-8770, Fax: 317-232-1362).