Colorado Ag Connection

Colorado Ag Connection | August 2020

August is an exciting month.

Our 4-H and FFA youth are busy showing their animals at county fairs and we are gearing up to welcome them to the livestock events at this years’ Reimagined Colorado State Fair. Our State Fair team is working hard to run 15 on-site animal and livestock shows this season, while following public health guidance to keep our youth and their families safe. All events will be live streamed as well and I encourage you to join in the fun virtually through the Colorado State Fair website. Opening day is August 28!

In addition, we are celebrating Farmers Market Week and Colorado Proud Month - great reminders of all the ways you can support your local farmers and ranchers. Find local food here and join us for free, virtual business development workshops August 11 and 25, presented by our Markets Division.

And this month, as always, our eight divisions are working tirelessly to support our state’s farmers and ranchers and to serve the people of Colorado. Our state is fortunate to have so many skilled staff at CDA who share a passion for agriculture and a dedication to our valued ag producers and communities.

Thanks to everyone for the many ways you support Colorado agriculture.

Sincerely,

Kate Greenberg

Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture

Celebrate Colorado Proud Month with Business Development Workshops

The Colorado Department of Agriculture is continuing to provide business development services for producers and food and beverage artisans during the pandemic. Free virtual workshops will be offered during Colorado Proud Month in August to help business owners learn how to sell into retail, reach new growth, and sharpen their brands.

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Colorado State Fair Releases 2020

On-Site and Virtual Activities Lineup

The Colorado State Fair Board of Authority has voted to hold a variety of competitive on-site activities and virtual contests at the Colorado State Fairgrounds as part of the reimagined 2020 State Fair, with a primary goal of supporting Colorado’s 4-H and FFA youth. Visit the Colorado State Fair website for a listing of all activities and the latest information.

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Nominations Sought for State

Hemp Advisory Committee

CDA is seeking member nominations for its Hemp Advisory Committee. Members advise the Department and confer on all matters regarding the regulation of hemp. Committee members also provide advice and consultation to the Commissioner and program staff by reviewing rules, recommending new rules or changes to existing rules, among other duties.

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Guidance Provided for Unsolicited Seeds Received Across Colorado

CDA is working with thousands of people across Colorado have recently received unsolicited packs of seeds in the mail. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Colorado office has provided guidance about how and where to mail unsolicited seeds to be tested. The department continues to monitor the situation and providing updates.

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Celebrate Colorado Proud Month by

Choosing Local Colorado Corn

August is prime time for Colorado produce, and sweet corn is just one of the many items available. There are nearly 4,000 acres of sweet corn grown in Colorado every year. Celebrate Colorado Proud Month by choosing locally grown, raised or made food and agricultural products wherever you shop or dine and enjoy this Grilled Sweet Corn today!