NASDA News - February 16, 2010

DESPITE BLIZZARD, NASDA MEMBERS CONVENE IN WASHINGTON
Published: February 16, 2010

Amidst what many have dubbed, the “snowpocolypse,” from February 4 through 8, state and territorial commissioners, directors and secretaries of agriculture met for NASDA’s 2010 Midyear Legislative Conference at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, DC.  Hailing from across the country, NASDA Members addressed a multitude of issues facing US agriculture, including water quality and environmental issues, pending energy legislation, recent regulatory actions by the EPA on greenhouse gases, reauthorization of child nutrition legislation and food safety. 

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack headlined Friday’s plenary session speaking on the importance of cooperation, the future opportunities of bioenergy, and the critical need to address child nutrition.  Secretary Vilsack also introduced USDA’s new plans to address traceability in livestock, thus taking the current direction for animal identification into a more state-led approach.  A number of other administration officials also spoke during the plenary session, which was moderated by former USDA Secretary John Block.

Additional information on the meeting, including a summary of actions taken by NASDA, is available online.  (Contact: NASDA Policy Staff)

VILSACK ANNOUNCES NEW TRACEABILITY FRAMEWORK AT NASDA MEETING
Published: February 16, 2010

During the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Mid-Year meeting, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA will develop a new, flexible framework for animal disease traceability in the United States. 

The new framework will provide the basic tenets of an improved animal disease traceability capability in the United States. USDA's efforts will: 

• Only apply to animals moved in interstate commerce; 

• Be administered by the States and Tribal Nations to provide more flexibility; 

• Encourage the use of lower-cost technology; and 

• Be implemented transparently through federal regulations and the full rulemaking process.

Vilsack said, "I've decided to revise the prior policy and offer a new approach to animal disease traceability with changes that respond directly to the feedback we heard [during listening sessions and through public comment]. One of my main goals for this new approach is to build a collaborative process for shaping and implementing our framework for animal disease traceability. We are committed to working in partnership with States, Tribal Nations and industry in the coming months to address many of the details of this framework, and giving ample opportunity for farmers and ranchers and the public to provide us with continued input through this process."

One of USDA's first steps will be to convene a forum with animal health leaders for the States and Tribal Nations to initiate a dialogue about the possible ways of achieving the flexible, coordinated approach to animal disease traceability we envision. Additionally, USDA will be revamping the Secretary's Advisory Committee on Animal Health to address specific issues, such as confidentiality and liability.

More information on USDA's new direction on animal traceability and the steps to improve disease prevention and control is available at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/traceability.  (Contact: Bob Ehart)

BIODIESEL, DISASTER ASSISTANCE INCLUDED, THEN REMOVED, FROM JOBS BILL
Published: February 16, 2010

Last week, Senate Democrats and Republicans joyously announced a bipartisan agreement on a new “jobs” bill, also known as the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act.  To the delight of many in agriculture, this draft text, which was introduced by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus, D-Mont., and Ranking Member Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, included a one-year, retroactive extension of the biodiesel tax credit and $1.5 billion in disaster assistance for farmers affected by ’09 crop losses due to weather-related incidents.  Senators from both sides of the aisle immediately voiced their support for the bill.  Even Senate Minority Whip Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., one of the Republican’s most-outspoken fiscal hawks, was optimistic the draft legislation would have the votes to quickly pass the often-inert body.   

However, later that same day, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., introduced a pared down version of his own “jobs” bill, which unfortunately removed those key provisions for agriculture and lost many of the critical pieces supported by numerous Senators. 

Sen. Grassley, R- Iowa, showed his frustrations with the efforts of the Senate Majority Leader, “the Majority Leader pulled the rug out from work to build broad-based support for tax relief and other efforts to help the private sector recover from the economic crisis.”  Meanwhile, Sen. Blanche Lincoln, D-Ark., the chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee and is currently amidst a difficult reelection battle, also illustrated her displeasure with the outcome, “I hope the Majority Leader will reconsider.  This bill was carefully crafted to achieve significant bipartisan support and contains several important measures to spur business growth and encourage new hires.” (Contact:  David Hickey)

USDA PUBLISHES ORGANIC PASTURE RULE
Published: February 16, 2010

The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced details of the final regulation regarding access to pasture for organic livestock operations. This rule amends the National Organic Program (NOP) regulations to clarify the use of pasture in raising organic ruminants.

USDA received a substantial number of comments on provisions of the rule affecting finish feeding practices of slaughter livestock, and has extended the comment period for this provision for 60 days. Finish feeding is commonly used by organic farmers and ranchers to improve the grade of beef and involves feeding livestock grain

The impetus for the rule came in 2005 when the National Organic Standards Board recommended that ruminants obtain a minimum 30 percent dry matter intake for at least 120 days. USDA published the proposed rule on Oct. 28, 2008, and received over 26,000 comments from producers, retailers, handlers, certifying agents, consumers, trade associations, organic associations, animal welfare organizations, consumer groups, state and local government entities and various industry groups.

The main components of the rule include: 

• Animals must graze pasture during the grazing season, which must be at least 120 days per year;  

• Animals must obtain a minimum of 30 percent dry matter intake from grazing pasture during the grazing season;

• Producers must have a pasture management plan and manage pasture as a crop to meet the feed requirements for the grazing animals and to protect soil and water quality; and, 

• Livestock are exempt from the 30 percent dry matter intake requirements during the finish feeding period, not to exceed 120 days. Livestock must have access to pasture during the finishing phase.

The final rule becomes effective June 17, 2010. Operations which are already certified organic will have one year to implement the provisions. Operations that obtain organic certification after the effective date will be expected to demonstrate full compliance.

Although this is a final rule, USDA is accepting comments only on the exceptions for finish feeding of ruminant slaughter stock.  These comments may be submitted before April 19, 2010. The 60-day comment period pertains to the finish feeding provisions only. There are specific questions to consider and instructions for submitting comments are available on the NOP website at http://www.ams.usda.gov/NOP.  (Contact: Amy Mann)

MN: MINNESOTA SEEKING TO TRAIN A NEW SET OF LOOKOUTS FOR INVASIVE PESTS
Published: February 16, 2010

You don’t need to be an entomologist to tell the difference between emerald ash borer and two-lined chestnut borer, but it sure helps.  The destructive invasive pest (emerald ash borer) and its native look-alike are both tiny, metallic-green beetles, but they are worlds apart in their impact on Minnesota forests and urban landscapes.

Fortunately, Minnesota entomologists and other experts with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), University of Minnesota Extension and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are now offering another round of workshops to teach tree care workers, community foresters and others the basics of how to tell the destructive invasive pests from harmless doppelgangers.  In the process, the state hopes to build its established network of so-called “first detectors” who help regulators spot infestations early.

In late February and early March, MDA and its partners will offer six one-day workshops to provide in-depth information on identification of invasive tree pests.  After completing the training, participants are qualified to serve as volunteers in the state’s First Detector Program.  The role of these first detectors is to serve as public contacts for information about these pests and to help investigate reports of potential infestations.

 “Minnesota faces a growing threat from invasive pests like emerald ash borer,” MDA Plant Protection Director Geir Friisoe said.  “One key to slowing the spread of these pests is to find new infestations quickly.  The idea behind the First Detector Program is to train people around the state to know what to look for and who to call when they find something.  The more help we have, the better our chances to contain infestations.”

More details about the workshops can be found online.  (Contact: Michael Schommer, Michael.schommer@state.mn.us)

MD: GOVERNOR INDUCTS 2 FARM FAMILIES INTO MARYLAND’S AGRICULTURE HALL OF FAME
Published: February 16, 2010

Governor Martin O’Malley today joined more than 800 agricultural leaders and legislators from across the State to induct two farming families into the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame.  John A. Prouty & Family of Calvert County and Mehrle H. & Thelma Ramsburg Jr. of Frederick County became the 38th and 39th recipients of the prestigious recognition during the annual Maryland Agriculture Dinner at Michael’s Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie.  The first-ever Smart, Green and Growing Awards were also presented during the event. Department of Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance joined Governor O’Malley during the presentations. 

“It is my honor to stand beside the Proutys and the Ramsburgs tonight to recognize their outstanding accomplishments, commitment and contributions to agriculture, family, resource conservation and community,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “In honoring these two families, who represent more than a century of farming in Maryland, we also honor the dedication and hard work of every farmer in this state. We count on their continued partnership as together we shape a more sustainable agriculture to keep Maryland smart, green and growing.”

“All of Maryland agriculture has benefited from the contributions of the Prouty and Ramsburg families, and we are honored to welcome them into the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Buddy Hance.  “Through their efforts, both families have made significant accomplishments to advance agriculture, support their communities, preserve farmland, protect the environment and encourage young people to get involved in farming.”

During his remarks this evening, Governor O’Malley focused on the outstanding leadership, stewardship and accomplishments of the agricultural community. He highlighted his strident efforts with the federal government to support the agriculture industry in times of economic need and to ensure fairness with federal regulations. The Governor also reiterated his support for the agricultural community through personal involvement and policy initiatives as well as his belief in the vital necessity of a thriving agricultural industry to the health of the State, its citizens, the economy and the environment.

Sponsored by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame was created in 1991 by then Governor William Donald Schaefer to honor agricultural leaders who exemplify high standards of achievement and commitment to the industry and their communities.

Because of the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s preservation, promotion, regulation, education and service activities, the citizens of Maryland can expect a safe and healthy environment and food supply, fairness in the marketplace, and that agriculture remains a strong economic force in the State.  Established in 1973, MDA is celebrating over 35 years of service to the citizens of Maryland.

Testimonials about each family are available at: www.mda.state.md.us/pdf/hofquotes09.pdf.  (Contact: Shaun Adamec, 410-974-2316)

MN: SURVEY SHOWS MINNESOTA A LEADER IN ORGANIC FARMING
Published: February 16, 2010

Minnesota ranks in the top ten of states with the largest number of certified organic farms according to a new survey by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.   The 2008 Organic Production Survey also found that while organic farmers enjoy higher sales of their products, they also incur more expenses to raise them compared to U.S. farms overall.

The survey included data from 14,540 U.S. farms and ranches that reported they were either USDA certified organic or were exempt from certification because their sales totaled less than $5,000.

According to the 2008 survey, Minnesota’s organic sector generated $69 million in sales. Nationwide, 2008 organic sales totaled $3.16 billion.

Minnesota placed 7^th with 550 organic farms, while California was first with 2,714.  Minnesota ranked first nationally in the production of organic soybeans and in the top three in acreage of other important farm crops such as corn, oats and barley.  The state ranked 4^th in the number of farms transitioning to organic, with 84 farms reporting land in transition.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) organic specialist Meg Moynihan says it’s encouraging that 78 percent of those surveyed plan to maintain or increase their organic production over the next five years.

“Transitioning to or starting out in organic farming takes time, money and management,” said Moynihan. “But our organic growers are finding that despite the challenges, growing consumer demand and new organic markets are making it worth the effort.” 

Moynihan says the USDA report echoes a 2009 MDA survey that found 96 percent of Minnesota organic farmers planned to maintain or increase their organic production.  (Contact: Margaret Hart, 651-201-6131)

VA: VIRGINIA FOOD FESTIVALS – THE ULTIMATE BUY LOCAL EXPERIENCE
Published: February 16, 2010

Even in the dead of winter, you can buy and eat locally with gusto. Information is just a click away at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/festival.shtml, the Virginia Food Festivals Web site from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS). The site has been updated for 2010 and it features events starting this month going through Christmas. With so many Virginia foods represented, there is a special event to celebrate almost everyone’s favorites, from chocolate to wine, beef to strawberries. Some events offer a unique Virginia twist to foods from other places, like the Celtic Festival in April or the Bayou Boogaloo in June.  

February is full of romance with wine and chocolate festivals, and March highlights maple festivals and Restaurant Week. April features wine, beef, shad and herbs and May kicks off berry season and the spring market fairs. June, July and August are packed full of festivals celebrating Virginia’s diverse offerings of berries, sweet corn, tomatoes, seafood and cantaloupe. There are summer festivals to celebrate Cajun food, South African cuisine and a Summer Save Our Food Festival. 

September and October are two of the busiest months for food festivals with featured products such as apples, wine, pumpkins and oysters. Chili Cook-offs and harvest festivals abound, and this is prime time for those special extras like hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin cannons, cider-making and antique tractors. You can end the year at Christmas festivals and food/craft fairs before the fun starts all over again in January 2011.

The food festivities are listed online by month. Each listing includes the date, location, contact information and a link to the event Web site, if available. VDACS advises festival-goers to call ahead for hours, directions, admission charges and other costs. (Contact: Elaine J. Lidholm, 804-786-7686)

WI: WISCONSIN FARM CENTER ANNOUNCES FUTURE FIELDS PROGRAM
Published: February 16, 2010

Future Fields, a program to help farmers find off-farm employment to replace or supplement farm income, is open for enrollment in southwestern Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Farm Center has announced.

The program brings employment related services to farmers, meeting them one-on-one in their homes to determine their needs. Schools, libraries, colleges and job centers collaborate to offer training and computers for use in the job search. Participants will get help with job seeking skills, resume writing, additional work skills and career exploration.

The program is set to go statewide by this summer, and is initially available in the following counties: Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Grant, Green, Iowa, Jefferson Lafayette, Marquette, Richland, Rock, and Sauk.

“Farmers are in a unique situation,” said Mike Exum, who is coordinating the program for the Farm Center. “Farmers don’t have unemployment insurance income when they lose farm income, nor do they have access to the other resources that come with unemployment compensation.  Future Fields is our effort to fill this gap and help farmers through these difficult economic times. 

When a farmer calls Future Fields, a staff member (Jennifer Hasburgh, Chris Eickhoff, Tom Sawyer or Mike Exum) will arrange a time to visit at the farmer’s home to discuss their off-farm employment needs, set goals and develop an action plan.  Future Fields staff will continue working with the farmer, helping them connect with available resources as they implement their off-farm employment plan.  (Contact: Mike Exum, 608-224-5051)

SD: SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Published: February 16, 2010

Agriculture is South Dakota’s No. 1 industry and is often considered the “common thread” that binds the state.  To illustrate the importance of agriculture to state residents and the economy, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) has published a brochure with key facts about the industry in South Dakota.

“As producers, we are often too humble to spread the message about how we raise the food, feed, fiber and fuel the world needs,” said South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture Bill Even.  “Our state’s farmers and ranchers take great pride in efficiently producing food while implementing sound conservation practices and taking care of their animals. This brochure will help them spread that message.”

As South Dakota works to develop a 21^st century renewable economy, agriculture is positioned to be the state’s competitive and comparative advantage. 

“The continued development of our agricultural industry is an important part of the state’s economic development efforts.  Agriculture has ties to education, technology, medicine, research, commercialization, manufacturing and renewable energy,” added Richard Benda, South Dakota Secretary of Tourism and State Development. “It is definitely an industry we all need to help promote.”  (Contact: Alison Kiesz, 605-626-3272)

NC: NCDA&CS LAUNCHES DEPARTMENT TWITTER ACCOUNT
Published: February 16, 2010

Following on the heels of the success of several social media ventures, the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has added a Twitter account to augment the blog, Facebook and YouTube accounts it already has.

 “Our social media outreach has been very effective so far, so it only makes sense to extend into Twitter,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “We’ve had great interactions with fairgoers through our State Fair Twitter account and see great value in adding another account to include department news.”

The account, www.twitter.com/ncagriculture, will keep followers up-to-date on events and news in the department.

The Twitter account was launched this week. The NCDA&CS Public Affairs staff will use the feed to communicate with Twitter users and share information, such as farmers markets reports, severe weather closings and special announcements. (Contact: Brian Long, 919-733-4216)