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Click on the headlines below to read specific articles,
or scroll through this month's e-news at your leisure.
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Thank You for a Fabulous
Winter Conference!
Our 16th Annual
Winter Conference
was a blast! Attendees enjoyed over 40 inspiring workshops, organic and locally sourced meals, book signings, the Green Market Fair, lively music, and a keynote by Dr. Daphne Miller, author of The Jungle Effect and Farmacology.
Congratulations NOFA-NH's 2018 Annual Awards Winners!
Each year, NOFA-NH recognizes the best of the best in our organic farming community at an Awards Ceremony during our annual Winter Conference. We are pleased to have awarded the following individuals for their service and contributions to NH's farm and food network at this year's conference.
Outstanding New Farmer of the Year:
Rebecca Sullivan & Andrew Toothacker of Sun & Soil Farm
Mentor of the Year:
Community Partner of the Year:
Leading Gardener of the Year:
Policy & Advocacy Leader of the Year:
Tara Sad
Volunteer of the Year:
Lorna Austin
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| Award Winners From Left: Justin Munroe, Jenny Wooster, Andrew Toothacker, |
Rebecca Sullivan, Stephanie Zydenbos, Tara Sad, and Lorna Austin.
Many Thanks
A resounding Thank You to our
sponsors,
exhibitors,
presenters,
authors,
keynote speaker,
The DoBros band,
food providers,
MainStreet BookEnds, NOFA-NH staff, board members and volunteers, Merrimack Valley High School, videographer Chadley Kolb, photographer Grace Dunklee Cohen, and of course - our wonderful attendees!
Very Special Thanks to Winter Conference Coordinator, Monica Rico!
Snapshots from the 16th Annual Winter Conference
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Andru Volinsky presented NOFA-NH Board President Amy Manzelli with a Commendation from the Governor.
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Keynote Speaker
Dr. Daphne Miller during a book signing session.
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Neil Nevins of MainStreet BookEnds with Michael Phillips during a book signing session.
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Attendees enjoying a workshop.
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The Green Market Fair.
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The DoBros at lunchtime.
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A Workshop Session
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A Workshop Session
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A Workshop Session
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To learn more about this year's conference please visit our
website.
All photos by Grace Dunklee Cohen.
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 This Year's Bulk Order was a Success
!
Thank you to all the farmers and gardeners who purchased supplies through this year's Bulk Order! The Bulk Order program is one of NOFA-NH's biggest fundraisers of the year, and with your participation we exceeded our goal!
Together we moved 45,000 pounds of products!
Many Thanks
NOFA-NH extends a resounding Thank You to our host pick up sites
Belletetes Building Products in Andover,
Country Three Corners in Weare, and
Spaulding Industrial Complex in Rochester, and our 2018 suppliers
FER Fertrell/North Slope Farm
,
ICC Ideal Compost Co.
,
LAP Lancaster Agricultural Products
,
NOC North Country Organics
,
OGS Organic Growers Supply/Fedco Seeds/Moose Tubers
, and
VCC Vermont Compost Co.
,
NOFA-NH's staff, board members and volunteers
.
Very Special Thanks to Bulk Order Coordinator, Denise Rico!
Snapshots from the 2018 Bulk Order Pick Ups
To learn more about the Bulk Order Program please
click here
.
All photos by Monica Rico.
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Honoring Our Roots, Tending Our Future
NOFA Summer Conference 2018
By Jason Valcourt, Summer Conference Coordinator
As winter begins to thaw, the fields call us back to tend
and cultivate another season of healthful bounty. And as the USDA organic standards degrade even further in the face of the National Organic Standards Board allowing Hydroponics into organic certification and animal welfare regulations taking a huge step backward, the need for conscientious local food producers becomes more necessary than ever. What a time for organic farmers and gardeners to get better at doing their part to infiltrate the food system with the healthiest, most conscientious food possible!
Mark your calendar for August 10-12, 2018 when we will gather on the campus of Hampshire College for the 44th NOFA Summer Conference as a community set on maintaining transparent and upstanding food production methods consumers can rely on in good faith. Each summer the NOFA community looks toward its regional summer gathering to help keep the fabric of healthful organic practices in tact and to learn from the successes of many amazing people doing their part.
This year NOFA will host keynote speakers Rowen White and Eric Holt-Giménez, over 120 workshops from all seven NOFA states, live entertainment, our annual contradance and country fair, as well as many family friendly activities. We gather together in 2018 to deepen and enliven our awareness of how all success in the organic movement is deeply connected to the wisdom of various cultures that have utilized and honed agricultural techniques that paved the way for organic farmers today.
From the nitty gritty of running a prison garden, to intercropping your garlic with faba bean, this year's workshop program has - very literally - just about everything. Get outside and hands on by grafting and pruning fruit trees, or by heading out on a guided mushroom walk. Tour the Hampshire College heritage pig breeding program, learn how to make your own fermented wild sodas, dig into balancing the soil nutrient food web, explore the concept of lean farming, create a vision for the future of organic, join dialogues on reparations and advancing the rights of farmworkers, and rediscover the indigenous crops of the far northeast. Looking to learn about different cultures of the world? Dive into Kaitiakitanga, the Maori concept of "guardianship" in regenerative agriculture; or the ancient Mexican Tetzkatlipoka diet of balanced nutrition. The conference is shaping up to offer a packed schedule, and we hope you take advantage of it!
Our Saturday foodie experience is growing more flavorful by the minute! We are excited to welcome the
African Alliance of Rhode Island to offer their delicious fare. You'll be able to try some of their famous Joloff and other delights, as well as purchase their carrot, apple or bitter ball jams to add some African flavor to your own dishes at home.
Summer Conference registration opens on May 1st! Scholarships and Work Exchange opportunities will be available on a first come first serve basis. We also have additional scholarships available to marginalized communities who would like to join us. Please be in touch if your group is interested.
*This article comes from the NOFA/Massachusetts
2018 April Issue
Newsletter, and is r
e-printed with permission from NOFA/Massachusetts.
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ACTION ALERT!
Encourage Members of the
Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee
to VOTE NO on House Bill 1233
- A bill preempting local regulation of seeds and fertilizers -
This bill has passed the house and is expected to be heard in Senate Committee on April 24th (though this date is not set in stone -
let us know if you'd like to receive final confirmation of the date when it is set).
Please call Committee Members at the numbers below (or email them), to register your opposition to the bill.
Talking Points:
House Bill 1233 could be a significant threat to a vibrant, local, and sustainable food system-a vast web of entities and relationships that hard-working farmers and food system advocates have been dedicated to rebuilding over the past decades.
It is vital that these initiatives be supported and encouraged in order to provide food security and resilience in the years ahead. Furthermore, ecological well-being, on which we all depend, as well as community fabric, require diverse and locally-rooted practices that are adapted to the specifics of New Hampshire's cultures and ecosystems. And yet, House Bill 1233 seeks to strip local communities from having an ability to regulate seeds and fertilizers, unless communities do so as part of their planning and zoning powers.
The very broad language of this bill includes just about every aspect of a food system. Though some claim that this bill doesn't preempt much that doesn't already exist in state law, it can be seen as an end-run around our food systems. If the claim that it doesn't do more than already exists, then much of it is redundant and not necessary.
The broad language of the bill prevents municipal regulation of seed "products." Furthermore, seeds are the basis of almost all crop farming (including nursery and greenhouse production). In New Hampshire, this represented 53% of the market value of agricultural products sold in 2012 (according to the Agricultural Census).
Local control, a basic tenet of New Hampshire governance, and a long-established part of our state culture is threatened by this broadly-worded bill that represents significant state overreach. Local control fosters accountability, innovation, and responsiveness to local community and ecosystem needs.
This bill could create much legal confusion, as well as financial and/or legal hardship for towns and farmers.
This bill represents a solution to problems that don't exist here, while having the potential of creating many unintended consequences.
To Oppose This Bill, Contact the Following Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Members:
Committee Aide: Griffin Roberge, 271-2878, SH 103
Members:
Thank you for your engagement!
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International Seeds Day and Bayer's Acquisition of Monsanto
After nearly two years of litigation, negotiations and media coverage, the U.S. Justice Department has permitted German drug and chemical company Bayer to acquire the agricultural giant Monsanto in a $62.5 billion deal, giving one company control of over 1/4 of the world's seeds and pesticides.
This recent acquisition, which you can read more about
here
, along with proposed New Hampshire House Bill 1233, make upcoming International Seeds Day feel even more relevant.
Celebrated on April 26
th
, t
he day is meant to honor patent-free seeds, organic food and farmers' rights.
You can celebrate by spreading awareness, by planting rare seeds, and buying heirloom variety foods and plants.
The Global Seed Network, a peer-to-peer online network developed by the Center for Food Safety that was
launched last year on International Seeds Day, is a great resource for finding rare and unique seeds from all over the world. Most users share their seeds for free or trade them with seeds from elsewhere that are also suitable for their environment. You can search by variety, climate, region and more. Check out the Global Seed Network
here.
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Results from the 2017 NH Gleans Program
NOFA-NH is Pleased to Continue This Program in 2018
NH Gleans is a network of organizations working to increase the availability of fresh and local produce distributed through food pantries, soup kitchens, community suppers and schools throughout NH that harvests food from farms and farmers markets that would otherwise not be distributed or sold. In 2017, the program's coordinators collected 163,592 pounds of food that were distributed to 85+ community partner organizations.
NOFA-NH is pleased to be a part of this grant-funded program through a partnership with New Hampshire Farm to School and the Seacoast Gleaning Coordinator. You can help ensure this program continues at the same level as previous years by making a
tax-deductible donation to help fund gleaning activities in the Seacoast region.
Click here to learn more about the program and how you can participate.
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Future Policy Award 2018: A Focus on Agroecology & Food Security
"Every year, the most visionary policies tackling humankind's most pressing challenges are commended with the
Future Policy Award (FPA)
,
the only global award that recognizes policies rather than people. The World Future Council has awarded this annual prize since 2010 in partnership with UN agencies. Recognizing that
scaling up agroecology
is a key element to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, the World Future Council, the FAO and IFOAM - Organics International will identify and honor policies that create enabling environments for agroecology in 2018.
"In 2015, world leaders committed to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 2, 'Zero Hunger', seeks to end hunger, achieve food security and improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. However, according to FAO, 815 million people go hungry even though there is more than enough food produced in the world to feed everyone. Agroecology can help transition to sustainable food and agriculture systems that ensure food security and nutrition for all, provide social and economic equity and conserve biodiversity and the ecosystem services on which agriculture depends. The award highlights proven policies that effectively scale up agroecology at local, national and international levels."
Winners will be recognized in a formal ceremony with the participation of ministers, decision-makers and the media on World Food Day at FAO in Rome.
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Annie's Project Weekend Retreat Seacoast, NH
4 Funded Spots Available for Overnighters
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Photo by NH Farm Bureau
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Annie's Project, a farm business education program for women, has a grant to offer for the final program in a series that began last fall. Four fully funded spots including lodging and meals are available for the final program:
April 20-22, 2018.
The spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and will be given away at no charge.
The focus of this particular program is transitioning from part-time to full-time farming.
Limited-resource female farmers are encouraged to request these free tickets.
Details:
April 20-22 at Alnoba in Kensington. Online registration is closed, but anyone wishing to attend can either email
Kelly McAdam or
Elaina Enzien. Participants have to commit to attending the entire event, two overnights, but would not have to attend the pre-conference farm tours.
To learn more about Annie's Project and the upcoming program, please
click here.
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Northern Community Investment Corporation Offering Cost Share to Small Businesses in the North Country of New Hampshire
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NCIC has funding available from USDA Rural Development and the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority. The purpose of this project is to provide funding for technical assistance to private small and emerging businesses in the North Country of New Hampshire. These Funds are for use within Carroll, Coos and Grafton Counties, with some funding available in Sullivan County as well.
Frequently, businesses would benefit from technical assistance and professional consulting services but they cannot afford it on their own. Through this program NCIC can help these projects come to fruition. Eligible businesses may have project costs covered 100% by NCIC, up to $2,000.
Examples of technical assistance include:
- Business Coaching
- Energy Efficiency Audits/Design
- Education & Training
- Marketing & Sales Strategies
- Engineering & Architectural Reports
- Permitting Assistance
- Finance & Accounting
- Website Development
Small businesses (50 or fewer employees and generally less than $1,000,000 gross profit) are encouraged to apply. Please contact Mike Welch, NCIC Senior Project Manager for more information and application materials (
mwelch@ncic.org
or 802-748-5101 ext. 2025). All applications should clearly state how the grant funds will enable the business to improve, grow or expand.
This project is funded by Northern Community Investment Corporation through a Rural Business Development Grant from USDA Rural Development and through a Community Development Block Grant from NH CDFA . NCIC is an equal opportunity employer, lender and provider. Funding from this program is provided without regard to sex, marital status, race, color religion, national origin, age physical or mental disability, receipt of income from public assistance or because the applicant has in good faith exercised any right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act.
This article is printed with permission from Northern Community Investment Corporation (NCIC). To learn more about NCIC,
click here.
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Veterans Welcome to Apply for "Armed to Farm" Training Program
NCAT is helping military veterans become farmers through Armed to Farm, a weeklong intensive training provided for free to military veterans. Veterans will learn how to use their military skills for farm business success and build local farmer-veteran networks. The program includes classroom and hands-on training from veggies to livestock. Find out more information about the Armed to Farm program.
Details:
June 11 - 15, 2018
East Hill Farm in
Troy, NH
Applications are open and may be found here.
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Meet Our Members! Introducing Tracie Loock
NOFA-NH's knowledgeable and passionate members make our organization great. Each month, we'll make our community a little bit closer by introducing you to one of our invaluable members.
Name and Occupation:
Tracie Loock, Farm Owner
How long have you been a member of NOFA-NH?
Since 2003, 15 years!
Why did you become a member of NOFA-NH?
I wanted to support and grow the movement in NH and I
loved the Natural Farmer publication so that was a nice bonus!
How has NOFA-NH impacted your business?
I've found information I've learned at NOFA conferences and workshops by other growers valuable for inspiration and ideas. I've found Farm tours to be helpful as well. We had a farm tour at our farm one summer. Articles in the Natural Farmer have also been helpful. The newsletter has come a long way and is a great resource for events, what's
going on in the organic farming community and relevant policies.
What's your number one priority for NOFA-NH this year?
One hurdle I'd love to see NOFA NH work on is how to make sustainable farming sustainable for farmers and those working on farms. After almost 20 years of farming and growing the business, I have found that it feeds my soul and the souls of those who work here but it is a labor of love and not sustainable financially. You have to work really hard and long hours for little pay which was fine before having a family but not sustainable in the long run. We're farming about 10 acres and struggle to make it work financially. It's hard to compete with large farms.
I also saw a lot of growth in the local food movement as the farm grew over the years, but with that came an increase in farms. I think the interest has to continue to grow with the amount of farmers trying to make a living. So working on outreach is important, too.
What advice do you have for anyone thinking about becoming a NOFA-NH member?
By joining you help support and grow the organic farming movement in NH. You receive the Natural Farmer publication - a great read.
Does your business have any upcoming events you'd like to share with the community?
We have prorated spring shares for pick up at the farm on Thursdays
through the end of May
available. We also have summer shares delivered to your door or $60 off if you pick up at the farm available.
We have 3 paid part time and full time positions open for the 2018 season. We value employees who want to grow with us over time and offer long term employment for the right candidates. We also have work shares and delivery shares available as an opportunity to work or deliver baskets in exchange for your share.
To find out more about us and how to purchase a share visit www.Traciesfarm.com
About this column:
NOFA-NH members with farms and farm related businesses are eligible to be featured in this column. Featured members are chosen by random lottery.
Click here
to become a member or renew your membership.
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Your Support Matters! Help NOFA-NH Thrive
NOFA-NH uses every cent of your donations on its important programs like providing CSA shares from local farms to underserved families, educating consumers and organic producers, and maintaining our website as an educational clearinghouse to support our network of growers, gardeners & more.
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Welcome New & Returning Members!
Thank you to our NOFA-NH Members who became new members and renewed their membership in March and April 2018.
Returning Members: John P. Rogers
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Renew Your Membership, Join Today, or Give the Gift of NOFA-NH Membership!
We've streamlined to just two membership levels:
- Student/Senior Membership: $30 (Available to full-time students currently enrolled in school and persons over 65 years old)
- Standard Membership: $45 (Available to everyone)
Check out a list of member benefits on the membership page of our website. A year's Membership to NOFA-NH makes a great gift any time of year! Call our office to purchase the gift of organic for your loved ones: 603-224-5022.
Current memberships
will continue for one year from the date you joined.
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Classifieds
WANTED TO BUY: 1-3 Acres 20 Miles of Antrim // Bear Tree Zendo, a local Zen group, needs a small piece of land (one to three acres) within twenty miles of Antrim to build a small local meditation hall (zendo). Woods, field, old pasture, going back to trees, etc. Quiet essential. Continued use arrangement, hay or sugaring possible. Call 603-748-5006 and leave a message.
Bounty from the Box: The CSA Farm Cookbook // Bounty from the Box: The CSA Farm Cookbook is a 712-page guide to 90 fruits, vegetables, and herbs, offering storage, preparation, and cooking advice and 360 delicious recipes. The electronic PDF version allows you to copy and paste text and recipes directly into your CSA newsletters-a huge timesaver for just $35.00.
Rental Needed - Late May - Mid-August // Rental needed from late May through mid-August. Seeking farm-living situation for a horticultural researcher within a 10 - 20-mile radius of Loudon, NH. Please contact 352-804-0938.
About This Section:
NOFA-NH Members may post 1 free Classified per month on our
Classifieds page
and in this e-newsletter. Non-NOFA-NH members may post a Classified in the e-news and on our website for $45 per Classified per month. To inquire about this program and to share a Classified with our community, contact info@nofanh.org.
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