Agricultural Community Review

FARMS FACE PRESSURE

GROWING TOMATOES EARLY

INSIDE...

Winter 2016

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The Winter Transition

Alas, the groundhog did not see his shadow and an early spring is being predicted even though it hardly seems like we had a full winter this

year. The Farmers’ Almanac had predicted a repeat of last year’s frigid cold and snow, so we should all count our blessings. I do caution you not to get too excited as this is Ohio and I recall many an April when we’ve seen more than just a few flakes of snow blanket the earth – despite what Mr. Punxsutawney had to say in the matter.

It is hard not to get excited as spring approaches. We begin to look forward to longer days, warmer temperatures and the prospect of soon enjoying the abundance of the season. All this bounty, however, does not come without preparation and a fair amount of work.

While most of our regional agriculture may have a season, the work of the farm is continuous. In the spring, it starts to kick into high gear. Across the state and throughout the country, equipment is being prepared to meet the land when it is ready, seeds are becoming sprouts and a whole new generation of animals are being born and cared for during this early season.

This edition of Harvest features two local farmers weathering transitions. The Foose Farm in Richfield has expanded their offerings. What was once a way to obtain fresh eggs for the family has grown into a community resource for backyard chicken farmers. Meanwhile, the Esselburns look toward succession planning for their beef and grain farm - and possibly a side business to take them through retirement.

You’ll find stories on planning for the growing season and capitalizing on the results. You can let nature help your efforts by taking advantage of the freeze thaw cycle typical at this time of year by frost seeding or you can try to give Mother Nature a boost by growing tomatoes in high tunnels to harvest earlier or extend the growing

season. If you’re considering sharing your abundance we have tips for joining your local farmers market and options to preserve the bounty well into next winter.

Perhaps my favorite subject for this edition looks at a couple 4-H students raising market steer and their preparations for inclusion in the Ashland County Fair. Not only does 4-H provide students with valuable hands-on learning experiences but it also utilizes a bevy of volunteers that work to educate these students on farming while honing leadership and life skills.

The work of the new season is before us. We look forward to sharing the journey with you.

2 Winter 2016

Winter 2016, Volume 3, Issue 1

PUBLISHER : SPECTRUM PRODUCT MANAGER:

SPECTRUM DIRECTOR: WRITER & LAYOUT DESIGNER:

OFFICE:

,

12

Welcome

Features

10 FARMS FACE PRESSURE

37 PRODUCING A GOOD EGG SUSTAINABLY

06 GROWING TOMATOES EARLY:

01 LETTER FROM THE STAFF

A Division of Dix Communications ©Copyright Spectrum Publications 2016

Farm to Table

06

20 ESSELBURN RETIREMENT HOME

22 4H

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Hot Topics

12 INVASIVE AND THREATENING SPECIES

16 FOOSE FARM

44 OHIO FARM BUREAU

28 THE EARTH

34 THE FARMERS MARKET

38 WINTER WARMTH

Farm Safety/Technology

26 GOING SOLAR

18 PRESERVE THE HARVEST

08 SAFE DRIVING

07 CAN YOU NAME THIS TOOL?

04 FROST SEEDING TIPS

40 ARE YOU CARRYING ENOUGH

46 30+ YEARS OF FAILED

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Story by | Jason TyrellAG RESOURCE SPECIALIST

Frost Seeding Tips

Well it’s here everyone! It’s time to decide when you are going to Frost Seed. The window is not very large, being Feb. 1 through March 15.

But watch closely, as you do not want weather to fool you and miss your opportunity.

So I’m guessing a lot of you are asking the question: What exactly is this frost seeding? Frost Seeding is a cost efficient and cost effective way to introduce new forage or improve your current stand. Frost seeding is the act of broadcasting seed over pastures or meadows

during the time where there is a freeze-thaw action. This action opens and closes the ground and allows the seed to penetrate the soil so that it may germinate.

There are several steps to help assure that you get positive results. These steps include Site Selection, Soil Fertility, Seed Selection, Seeding Rates, Seeding Time, Seeding Method, Seed Treatments and Post-Seeding Management.

Site Selection: Any location where you can maximize seed-to-soil contact is a good site to frost seed. Having good seed-to-soil contact is essential for positive results to be achieved. The best option for fields to frost seed are fields with bunch-type grasses such as orchard grass rather than a sod-forming species such as bluegrass. Soil type matters as well. Soils such as loam and clay, that have natural moisture, work the best as opposed to sandy soils, which should be avoided. When you do choose your field, make sure that you either clip pastures or closely graze in the late fall or winter to open up the stand and expose the soil.

Soil Fertility: Make sure you get your Soil Tests!! Growing, establishing and maintaining productive forage is greatly dependent upon fertility. Try to have soil tests done at least every 4 years to keep track of your soil quality and at least 6 months prior to frost seeding. This allows time to make any adjustments that may be needed. Corrective applications of phosphorus and potassium should be applied prior to seeding. Any lime needed should be applied a year in advance. If you are frost seeding a legume, nitrogen applications should NOT be made the year of seeding due to the potential for increased competition from grasses and weeds.

Seed Selection: If you choose to seed a legume, the best options would be Alfalfa, Birdsfoot Trefoil and Clover (there are several species of clover that make very different impacts). Alfalfa should be seeded on

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well drained soils. Birdsfoot Trefoil takes 2-3 years to establish a solid stand. Red Clover establishes quickly but only produces for around 2 years. White Clover will establish quickly and last 3 or more years. Alsike Clover takes 2-3 years to establish a solid stand.

If you choose to frost seed grasses, the best options are Perennial Ryegrass and Orchardgrass, when moisture is adequate for growth. Grasses such as Timothy, Reed Canarygrass, Tall Fescue, Smooth Bromegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass are NOT recommended when frost seeding due to light weight and cold weather tolerability when attempting germination.

If you decide that you would like a seed mixture, you must decide what type of mixture. With a legume mixture, such mixes as red clover and birdsfoot trefoil or alsike clover, the red clover establishes early and then when it is ready to die off, the birdsfoot or the alsike clover will then establish creating a long term legume presence. Grass mixtures are not recommended, as they are more difficult to establish than legumes are. If you decide to do a legume and grass seed mixture, it is recommended to separate the two seed types and spread them in two passes. Legume seed, which is heavier than grass seeds, tend to “throw” farther when broadcasting.

Seeding Rates: Make sure you know your seeding rates, so you may broadcast the proper amount to avoid under or over seeding your fields. Seeding rates can be found by either calling your local Extension office (OSU extension), or looking at their website online at ohioline.osu.edu for Ohio seeding rates. Remember that depending on your location and seed type, seeding rates may vary.

Seeding Time: Frost seeding must take place at the correct time proper results. In Ohio, frost seeding should occur from February 1st through March 15th. The exact seeding date you choose should depend on the weather that year and the location in Ohio. Southern Ohio areas will need to seed earlier than Northern Ohio areas.

Seeding Method: There are several options when deciding to broadcast your seed. Depending on how large of an area that will be seeded, you can choose to use a hand broadcasting seeder, an ATV broadcasting seeder or a tractor broadcasting seeder. If you are frost seeding on to snow, be cautious as rapid meltdown of snow may result in seed runoff. After broadcasting the seed, the “Trampling Effect” of high livestock densities can be an effective way to ensure Seed-to-Soil Contact.Seed Treatments: Seed treatments containing nitrogen-fixing rhizobia bacteria are widely available for most common legumes. Rhizobia do survive in the soil, so if the legume planned to be seeded is already present,

rhizobia is not required. If the legume is not present, rhizobia seed coating is recommended.

Post-Seeding Management: Make sure you follow the fertility program based on the soil test recommendations to ensure that adequate levels of pH, phosphorus and potassium are present along with other corrective applications that took place. Make sure if you have a legume stand greater than 35 percent, that you do NOT apply nitrogen. After the applied seed germinates, make sure your mow or graze the pastures as needed to remove excessive grass growth and control weeds and woody vegetation. Proper grazing management in the first year is critical. Maintaining your grazing plan will ensure proper production of your forage. Avoid overgrazing by leaving a minimum of 2-3 inches of top growth at all times.

Frost seeding is a great conservation practice that can be a quality low cost method to improve an existing forage stand or introduce a new forage species. Remember to follow all the steps necessary to ensure that quality production is possible and maintained. For information contact the GSWCD office at the fairgrounds, 740-489-5376, or visit www.guernseycounty.org

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6 Winter 2016

Story by | Kate MinnichHARVEST WRITER & DESIGNER

Growing Tomatoes Early: Through the Use

of High Tunnels

With the increased popularity of farmer’s markets, finding the opportune time to harvest the produce has become a hot topic.

In the case of tomato farmers, growing the fruit in high tunnels protected within greenhouses have lengthened the period during which the plants bear fruit.

The variety of tomato chosen for high tunnel planting will affect the type of greenhouse configuration necessary for a profitable season. Determinate varieties of tomatoes are lower-growing plants that reach a particular height and stop growing vertically. Typically a horizontal trellis system is preferred for these varieties. Indeterminate varieties continue to grow vertically as long as they are healthy and not affected by frost. A vertical trellis system will enable the tomato plants to continue their climb skyward.

Growing patterns for the tomatoes is reliant on the time of planting as well as the variety of plant. The determinate varieties tend to have a shorter fruit-bearing window, but

the fruit is generally ready early in the season. Staggering the maturity and planting of determinate varieties will spread out the harvest period. Indeterminate varieties typically yield more fruit overtime and can be planted early enough to produce fruit earlier.

The atmosphere created within a greenhouse will affect pollination and the nutrients reaching the plants. Placing a colony of honeybees within your greenhouse will allow for pollination while receiving all the benefits of the protected environment. High nitrogen levels within the soil early in the growing process will delay the bearing of fruit and completely negate the advantages of growing tomatoes in high tunnels. Other nutrients to be conscious of are potassium, calcium and magnesium levels, all of which contribute to the health of the fruit. Monitoring the soil composition is recommended to protect and maintain overall crop health.

Pruning methods for the indeterminate and determine varieties vary and may dictate the variety chosen. The suckers on indeterminate varieties must be pruned in order to train the plant to ascend vertically. Pruning for determinate varieties is suggested as a ‘leaf per day system’ that specifically targets the leaves in the lower portion of the plants. Pruning away from the heaviest fruit-bearing areas will reserve the nutrients for the fruit rather than the leaves.

The lengthened fruit-bearing period has allowed high tunnel tomato farmers to price their early tomatoes at a higher rate. The high demand for fresh local vine ripe tomatoes coupled with low availability is proving to be extremely beneficial to farmers utilizing high tunnels.

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Can You Name This Tool?Story & Photos by | Paul LocherDIX COMMUNICATIONS

This primitive wooden tool, often used by women, was a staple around early farmsteads in the region.

Visit page 25 for the answer and a brief explaination.

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8 Winter 2016

Story by | John FitzpatrickOHIO FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Safe Driving: In Regards

to Agricultural Equipment

Puxatawney Phil (groundhog) has indicated an early Spring. Spring means a tremendous increase in activity in rural Ohio as farmers prepare soils

and plant fields. Spring also means an increased volume of traffic on our county roads and highways as people respond to the milder weather to relieve themselves of cabin fever. It is these two increases of activity that can create potentially lethal problems that are easily preventable.

The landscape of rural America has changed and farm fields are now separated with interspersed housing and other structures between. Farmers must move equipment from one field to another by utilizing county and township roads and, often, even state routes. Farm machinery moves slower than regular automobiles and trucks. In fact, the slower speeds are prescribed by law.

Too many drivers get behind a piece of agricultural equipment and grow impatient. Many times this impatience results in the taking of chances which can prove deadly. Let’s examine the very real conditions. Northeast Ohio is blessed with a rolling hill landscape that provides us beautiful scenery. It also gives us many

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roads with limited sight distances to safely pass. If you get behind even the slowest farm equipment (one limited to 25MPH) and follow it for a distance of two miles, you have only added two minutes to your drive time for that distance. That is the same amount of time spent at two traffic lights on city streets. Is two minutes such a burdensome amount of time that it is worth risking your life and the lives of others to pass without having assured clear distance? Relax and enjoy the scenic views that you might ordinarily miss when traveling at higher rates of speed. Most of our farmers are courteous and will find pull over areas where they can allow backed-up traffic to get around them, but those are not always readily available.

Another danger concerning agricultural equipment on roadways; the law requires that they have their four way flashers operating while driving. Drivers following this equipment often do not notice when the equipment operator has changed from four way flashers to individual turn signals. As the operator slows even more (in preparation for a turn) cars will accelerate from behind only to discover that the farm machinery

is starting to turn, and the car does not have sufficient space to stop.

“Please” is the only word we can use! Please be patient. Do not pass without being able to see an assured clear distance. Please notice the flasher lights to see if they have changed to a turn signal. Please don’t endanger your life or the lives of other motorists. It truly is only a few minutes.

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10 Winter 2016

Story by | Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association Policy Program

Farms Face Pressure from

Fracking, New Pipelines

Ohio may soon be home to two new major interstate pipelines, pending approval by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

(FERC). The 630 miles of pipelines would leave a significant footprint on Ohio’s landscape and affect farmland, waterways, forests, cultural resources, and rural and suburban communities.

The proposed Nexus and Energy Transfer (ET) Rover pipelines will impact 25 counties in Ohio and transport gas obtained from the controversial process of fracking from Ohio, through Michigan, and into Canada. Also known as high volume hydraulic fracturing, fracking uses water, sand, and chemicals injected at high pressure into deep underground shale formations to create underground explosions that crack the rock and release natural gas.

Natural gas production in Ohio has led to numerous fracking accidents in recent years including fires, explosions, earthquakes, and injection well leaks. This spring, for example, the Ohio Department of Natural

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Resources confirmed a 2,000 gallon fracking waste spill at an injection well site in Trumbull County, which resulted in the death of fish, turtles, and other wildlife.

New pipeline infrastructure brings new risks to water quality, public health, and food production. In November 2011, a natural gas transmission pipeline exploded in Morgan County, burning three houses and leaving a 30 foot wide, 15 foot deep crater. In November 2012, a pipeline spill polluted 1.5 miles of Boggs Fork in Harrison County.

Private property in the pipeline corridors could be taken through eminent domain, if landowners don’t sign an easement giving the companies the right to utilize the land. Should the projects move forward, a 100 foot exclusion zone around the pipeline would prohibit trees, buildings, or other structures, additionally impacting farmland and wildlife habitat. Construction impacts, including surface disturbance and access roads, and decreased land value are other issues for landowners to consider.

James Yoder is already feeling the impact of the ET Rover pipeline. He is a fourth generation farmer at Clover Meadow Farm in Apple Creek, where he milks a small herd of organic Jersey cows. Yoder is young, energetic, and passionate about farming. He rotates his cows on 55 acres of the 66 acre farm, moving fence three times a day for the animals to graze on the freshest pasture. Jerseys raised on grass and hay - a mix of red clover, orchard grass, and fescue - produce high quality milk and fertilize the land as they graze. Yoder’s choice to raise organic dairy cows is one that contributes to the health of his animals, fills the growing consumer demand for organic milk, and makes his small herd a profitable one. Now his operation is in jeopardy.

Last spring, Yoder was approached by a survey crew who looked at the land and marked where the ET Rover pipeline would cut diagonally across 11 acres of his grazing fields. He was met some time later by a “land man” requesting that he sign an easement to allow Energy Transfer Partners to construct two 42 inch pipelines. His first question was about what measures they would take to protect his organic certification. As a small dairy farmer, losing his organic status would put him out of business. Unfortunately, to this point, there has been no indication that the company will take any measures to prevent soil contamination, loss of access to his pasture, degradation of milk quality, loss of price premiums, and loss of organic certification.

“James represents the future of agriculture: part of a new generation of people enthusiastic about making a living off the land, producing healthy food in a way

that protects the land, water quality, and treats animals well,” said OEFFA Policy Program Coordinator Amalie Lipstreu, who works with farmers concerned about the impacts of fracking. “Of course we all use and need energy, but it is a mistake to think that we have to accept contamination of our communities and loss of land and property rights, especially in a case where the energy resources generated are being shipped outside of the United States.”

Pipelines and other fracking infrastructure put organic farmers, like Yoder, at particular risk. All products applied to certified organic land - whether intentional or not - must be disclosed in the farm’s Organic System Plan. Excess gases and heavy metals in the soil and water can compromise certification. Soil, product, or tissue samples can be taken by an organic inspector or certification agency any time to verify compliance with the National Organic Program.

There are currently more than 700 certified organic operations in Ohio, including 130 in Wayne and Holmes counties.

FERC is accepting input from the public on these pipelines and the impact they will have on our communities. Comments can be submitted online at www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/ecomment.asp using docket number CP15-93-000 or by mail to Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First St. NE, Room 1A, Washington, DC 20426. For more information on how to provide comments, contact OEFFA at (614) 421-2022 Ext. 208 or policy@oeffa.org.

Amalie Lipstreu is the Policy Program Coordinator for the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA), a statewide, grassroots, nonprofit organization working to create and promote a sustainable and healthful food and farming system. For more information, go to www.oeffa.org.

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12 Winter 2016

Invasive and Threatening

Species

Introducing chemicals or pollution into the environment can compromise an ecosystem. However, seemingly harmless non-native plants

and animals can do an equal share of damage as well. Many people might be surprised to learn that invasive species can cause turmoil in the environment, even contributing to the destruction of certain ecosystems. Certain invaders are more virulent than others.

Non-native species of animals and plants are like enemy marauders. They may look like the other wildlife around, but they do not quite meld with the environment. When the ecosystem is not equipped to handle a non-native

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species, these species can quickly consume all of the resources and multiply so quickly that they effectively obliterate the native species.

Many non-native species of plants and animals become problematic when they are put into an environment inadvertently, such as when they hitch a ride on other items. Plant life may be brought home from a vacation abroad, or new animals can be introduced to the environment if they escape as pets. Shipping vessels can bring back microscopic sea creatures, and insects have been known to hitchhike on various modes of travel. Although efforts are made to prevent new species from invading an area, it’s impossible to catch everything.

Because these plants and animals likely have no natural predators in their new surroundings, they can reproduce much faster and take over. The following are just a few of the globally invasive plants and animals that can threaten local ecosystems.

ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITO: Spring and summertime outings have remained forever changed thanks to this highly invasive mosquito. Its distinctive black and white stripe pattern helps the Asian tiger mosquito stand out from others. Native to tropical and subtropical areas of Southeast Asia, scientists believe it has quickly become one of the planet’s most widely-distributed animal species, spreading to at least 28 countries in a matter of 20 years. It’s believed these mosquitoes hitch rides on

imported tires.ASIAN CARP: There are many different species of carp,

which are native to Russia and China. Large fish with voracious appetites, carp take food right out of the mouths of native fish. These fish also stir up sediment in lakes and riverbeds, changing clear water to murky water, thus pushing out some species that can no longer survive.

BURMESE PYTHON: These tropical snakes have been introduced into many warm areas, including Florida. Many were taken as pets only to outgrow their indoor habitats. They can live in the water and

climb trees. With their massive size (20 feet in length), the pythons have few predators and require a lot of prey. Florida wildlife experts estimate 30,000 Burmese pythons reside in Everglades National Park alone. They even feast on alligators.

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SOAPBUSH: Sometimes referred to as Koster’s Curse, this is a perennial shrub that is highly invasive in many tropical regions of the world. Originally from Mexico and the Caribbean, soapbush was introduced to Hawaii in the 1940s and quickly began taking over.

KUDZU: This vine is native to Japan and can grow upward of a foot per day in the right conditions. It was brought to the United States to help prevent soil erosion and has never left. Since its introduction, Kudzu has been spreading across the United States at a rate as fast as 150,000 acres annually, according to environmentalists.

CANE TOADS: Cane toads were introduced to many countries with warm climates as a method of naturally controlling crop pests. However, the toads’ own defense mechanism of secreting toxins makes them deadly to predators outside of their normal habitats. Therefore, there’s nothing to keep these cane toads in check, and

they have wreaked havoc on native animal and plant species, especially in Australia.

ASIAN LONG-HORNED BEETLE: Another invasive insect, the beetle does most of its damage in the larval stage. This is when it burrows through and feeds on tree wood beneath the bark. In large concentrations, the larvae can destroy a tree. The University of Vermont Entomology Research Laboratory says the beetle is currently infesting trees in Ohio, Massachusetts and New York. Trees must be removed,

chipped and burned to destroy the invader.Non-native plants and animals can destroy

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By County

617 DAIRY FARMS

WITH SALES INHOLMES COUNTY

507 DAIRY FARMS

WITH SALES INWAYNE COUNTY

164 DAIRY FARMS

WITH SALES INRICHLAND COUNTY

105 DAIRY FARMS

WITH SALES INASHLAND COUNTY

89 DAIRY FARMS

WITH SALES INSTARK COUNTY

1641644 DADAI

The above figures were collected by the USDA in the 2012 census.

16 Winter 2016

Foose Farm: Offers Chickens, Fresh

Eggs, Supplies to would-be Farmers

Story by | Eric MarottaDIX COMMUNICATIONS

After five years, a flock of hundreds of chickens has settled in at the Foose’s Brandywine Road homestead and become a booming business.

Tammy Foose said the 10 chickens they had five years ago produced more eggs than she, her husband Joe and their daughter, Rose -- now 8 -- could eat.

So they put the excess out by the side of the road in a cooler and invited people to buy them, leaving their money behind on the honor system.

They bought 100 chickens the next year and began selling not only hundreds of eggs, but chickens and other supplies for those who wanted to raise their own eggs.

“We just kept growing,” Foose said. “Home-grown eggs taste so great; they are so much better than the store’s eggs, so we got more chickens.”

This year, Foose is caring for more than 200 winter chickens with an expected total of 450 spring chickens, collecting dozens of eggs per day and maintaining a craigslist account to sell chickens, eggs, nest boxes and manure.

The sale of nesting boxes increased to a national account selling roughly 68 boxes in the month of January. The rollaway community style nesting boxes are a unique product by a local manufacture Yuneek. The biggest selling nesting box is 4 by 1 foot collecting anywhere from 45 to 60 eggs per box. A key feature of the box is the ability to attach the egg tray to either the front or back of the structure with the use of a few bolts.

“We’ve had people drive 2 1/2 hours for a chicken,” she said.

She spends “at least a good hour” every day caring for the flock. She sold 130 dozen eggs in one recent week and between 40 and 50 dozen eggs on the coldest day this winter.

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Foose said one of the prime reasons for raising chickens is the quality of the eggs their flock of Golden Comets produce.

The birds are fed non-genetically modified feed purchased from a supplier hours away in southern Ohio.

The birds are also allowed to run and feed in the grass -- pastured, in the industry vernacular.

“It’s really all about the egg,” Foose said. “It tastes so good. It has a lot of extra nutritional value -- less cholesterol, less saturated fat, higher in vitamins. But even if it wasn’t higher nutritional value, the taste is so good that people would just want them for the taste -- it’s awesome.

“The chickens are on fresh grass,” she added. “We move them weekly and it is just so beneficial for the chicken and the egg.”

The couple has recently purchased a “chicken caravan” from Australia. It’s a trailer especially designed to house chickens in a self-contained unit, with nesting boxes, feeding stations and roosts for the birds to rest at night.

The trailer has been very helpful with the chores, cutting down the time spent gathering eggs. Tammy is positive the new addition will be even more beneficial in the spring when the chickens are put out to pasture. “We will be able to move it around the pasture with the

tractor.” The chickens, purchased young, take about 16 to 20

weeks before they get large enough to lay.At first, the eggs are small, but grow larger until the

birds begin laying an egg just about every day, depending on the season.

The birds are generally productive for about three years, Foose said.

The chickens’ nest boxes are presently housed in a 20 by 60 foot greenhouse the couple moves across their property’s 4 1/2 acres.

Occasionally, a bird is taken by an owl, though other predators such as foxes and coyotes have stayed away.

The birds also hop the fence circling their bit of pasture and are quickly rounded up before they can leave the property.

“We’ve never had one cross the road,” Foose said.

Foose Farm is located at 7860 Brandywine Road in Northfield Center. It can be reached at 330-298-5181.

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Preserve the Harvest

Story by | Melinda MyersSYNDICATED COLUMNIST

The cucumbers have filled the vegetable drawer, you’ve run out of cabbage recipes and your family is refusing to eat one more BLT. Or maybe

you just couldn’t resist that special deal on a bushel of tomatoes, potatoes or apples at the farmer’s market. So what is a gardener or shopper to do with all that produce? Since properly stored vegetables will hold their flavor and nutritional value longer than those left in a plastic bag or set on the sunny kitchen counter, consider

preserving some for the long winter ahead using one of several methods.

Storage orchard racks and slatted crates placed in a cool dark location have long been used to store squash, onions and potatoes. The stackable nature or drawers provide ample storage space, so fruits and vegetables do not touch. Keeping stored fruit separated prevents rot from spreading from one fruit to the next. Plus, the slatted sides allow airflow to extend storage longevity.

Those in colder climates can store their carrots and parsnips right in the garden. Once the soil gets a bit crunchy, cover them with straw or evergreen boughs for easier digging in winter. Then dig as needed or harvest during the first winter thaw. If this isn’t possible or not your style, try out a root vegetable storage bin. The root crops are layered in sand or sawdust and placed in a cool dark location. Just remove and use as needed. No snow shoveling needed.

Drying is one of the oldest food preservation techniques. Most of us have grabbed a few bundles of herbs to hang and dry. Expand your drying endeavors to include fruits and vegetables. The goal is to quickly remove moisture without cooking the food. You can make your own dehydrator or purchase one. Research has shown that blanching vegetables and fruit before drying helps destroy harmful bacteria. Blanching involves a steam or boiling water bath followed by a cold water bath. Timing varies with the fruit or vegetable you are preparing.

Another ancient food preservation technique, fermentation, is experiencing a comeback. Cultures around the world have fermented fruits and vegetables for thousands of years. Unique flavors, storage options and health benefits have many gardeners revisiting this tradition. Fermenting cucumbers into pickles, cabbage into sauerkraut, and berries into preserves are just a few options. The ingredients can be as simple as water,

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salt, and spices. All you need is a vessel, vegetables and fermenting culture. You can jump-start your efforts with a fermentation crock kit (gardeners.com) which includes the crock, cover and weights to make sure your veggies stay safely submerged in water.

Or quickly lock in the flavor and nutrition of your fruits and vegetables with freezing. You’ll need airtight containers or bags that are durable, don’t leak and won’t become brittle in cold temperatures. Some produce does not freeze well and others may need to be blanched before they are packed in the freezer bag or container. But frozen items can easily be retrieved from the freezer and included in your winter meals.

Canning is a bit more involved, but can be lots of fun. This process preserves the food and keeps it safe by preventing the growth of undesirable bacteria, yeast and mold. The sealed jars keep the flavor in and bad microorganisms out. So gather your produce, jars, pressure cooker, canner and friends to create tomato sauce, salsa, jams and jellies to enjoy or give as gifts.

Whatever method you choose, do a bit of research before you start. You’ll have greater success and a lot more fun. The National Center for Home Food Preservation website, http://nchfp.uga.edu, provides all the basic information for storage and food preservation.

Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening and the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment segments. Myers is also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ web site, www.melindamyers.com, offers gardening videos and tips.

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Esselburn Retirement Home Becomes New Business

Story by | Tami MosserDIX COMMUNICATIONS

With the youngest of their five children now in her teens, Tom and Kelly Esselburn decided it was time to start thinking about a succession

plan for the 500-acre farm they own that straddles the Wayne-Ashland county line.

The couple, who were both raised on dairy farms, may well cede the grain and cattle operation to their children. Regardless, Kelly Esselburn said, easing out of running the farming operation means she and her husband also would leave the farmhouse.

So, over the summer, they started looking for what could be a new home. Ideally, she said, they wanted to be close enough to the farm to help out when needed, but far enough away for the next generation to learn on its own.

What they found was a 4,400-square-foot home on 70 acres in Holmes County, just minutes from Nashville. “Tom just felt totally at peace with it,” Esselburn said. “I had certain doubts. … To me, five years still seems a long way away.” Not wanting to make the move immediately, the Esselburns decided to turn the house into a lodge, a retirement idea into a business.

They call it Whitetail Ridge Lodge. “Hopefully,” Kelly Esselburn said, “we can share it with someone else for a while.”

The former owners built the lodge in 2002 as a private residence, living in a partially finished barn for three years while seeing to every detail in the house, right down to the Canadian timbers that were brought in to anchor the vaulted ceiling of the great room and custom stone that graces the floor-to-ceiling fireplaces in both the lower and upper levels. “They built this,” Esselburn said, “as their forever home.”

But it was not to be.The husband-and-wife owners had lived in the house

only a short time when the man was diagnosed with a chronic illness and had to be moved to Cleveland for care. Realizing the commute from the hills of Holmes County to the city was not practical, his wife put the property up for sale. Tom Esselburn read about it online.

Her husband, who once sold animal pharmaceuticals but now sells feed-grade yeast for Phileo Lesaffre Animal Care, enjoys the lodge, which has windows that look out across the yard and into a wooded area near one of the properties’ two ponds. “To him, it’s just peaceful and relaxing,” Kelly Esselburn said.

For her, it’s become a project. While the dining room table and the master suite bed were made by local Amish craftsmen, the rest of the furnishings were bought at auction. “I became the auction queen last summer,”

Photo by | Mike Schenk

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Esselburn said. “It was challenging to be at the right place at the right time” to find enough furnishings for the king master suite, a second master suite and a third bedroom, plus a game room and four bathrooms.

The interior renovation of the barn will be completed over the winter. “I look at this,” she said, “and I see such potential for this to be a venue type of place.”

The property sits along the Bell Ridge and “it’s like you’re in the Appalachian Mountains,” said Esselburn.

As she was finishing up work with a web designer and had her first call for a reservation next summer, Esselburn said, her husband commented, “You know what? I ought to let you be in charge of this.”

Perhaps. “I can’t work like I have for 34 years for the next 34 years,” she said, although she won’t rule out the idea that a potential retirement home might now be a not-quite-retirement business. Happy to trade cattle for deer, wild turkey and the occasional rabbit, Esselburn has turned her attention to hiring help — she had local FFA’er Justin Lorentz do the mowing — and planning for winter. In bad weather, Esselburn said, the lodge may be accessible only with a four-wheel drive vehicle.

But no matter. There are two fireplaces inside and one outside. The wood has been cut. And in case of a power

outage, the property has a generator.Three of the five Esselburn children live locally. Andrea

will be 14 soon, while Katie works for Purina Nutrition and Justin is an agronomist. Nathan works for Rea & Associates in Columbus and Christopher is more than four hours away in Elba, New York and plans to marry next year. “Justin and Katie come and help during busy times,” Esselburn said, when they take vacation time from their day jobs to take part in planting, baling and harvesting. Those two would be the logical choices to take over the farm operation, Esselburn said. But, she noted, succession “is something that could take us 20 years to do.”

She also knows it takes time to get a lodging business up and running, though it’s not something she ever saw the family doing. “I don’t know what my life is going to do,” she said. “I know God is going to provide for us. It’s a matter of learning to trust, completely trusting God, to take care of it.”

Reporter Tami Mosser can be reached at 330-287-1655 or tmosser@the-daily-record.com.

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22 Winter 2016

4-H: Raising the Next Generation

Raise the topic of 4-H in many circles and thoughts of farming and livestock come

readily to mind.And rightly so. Though the youth program offers

projects in dozens of non-agricultural areas, at its core remains those most related to agriculturally-centered pursuits.

Of the more than 120 projects offered through the 4-H program in Ohio, no less than 39 — about a third — deal directly with either livestock or farming and gardening.

Livestock projects cover such diverse topics as poultry, horses, sheep, swine, cattle, rabbits, llamas and alpacas, goats, beekeeping and chinchillas.

In some cases, multiple projects cover a single animal. For example, 4-H’ers can choose from pet rabbit, market rabbit and breeding rabbit projects.

Many projects are state fair eligible. That is, 4-H’ers

taking these projects can present in local events for the right to present at the state fair.

Of course, one could argue the point that any and all 4-H projects are integral to the goal of the 4-H program — “Preparing young people to make a positive impact in their communities and the world” — and evidenced in the pledge members recite: “I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living for my club, my community, my country and my world.”

Projects centering on agricultural are a natural fit with an organization whose origins date back more than a century, and was founded as a means to instruct youth in ways to improve both farming and home-making practices.

Story by | Caitlin Nearhood & Dan DavisDIX COMMUNICATIONS

Photos by | Joe Pelletier

Above: Taylor Dawson pulls her market steer through the barn at the Ashland County Fairgrounds.

Left: Haleigh Stephens get support from her brother Carston (left) and mother Chelsea as she presents Red Rock.

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ASHLAND & WAYNE COUNTY 4-H PROGRAMSKathy Blackford, Ohio State University Extension

4-H educator for Ashland County, shared that Ashland County has about 35 clubs this year. While two clubs combined recently, they have also seen the institution of at least five new clubs.

All clubs take members who are at least 8 years old and in third grade on Jan. 1 of the current year up through age 18. Some clubs have Cloverbud members, for children who are 5 years old and in kindergarten as of Jan. 1 of the current year up through second grade. Cloverbud members do not do projects and have a separate activity time at club meetings.

OSU Wayne County extension educator Doug Foxx said there are 45 clubs in Wayne County. Some are specific to animals, like horses, while others don’t have a concentration.

Nationally, over 1,552 children participated in 4-H clubs in 2015 and as many as 419 volunteers were

involved. Many students go to the fair with their projects for

judging, but not all of them do. “Most of the kids like to go to the county fair,” Blackford

said. “They are not required to though. I would say we get 80 percent of kids to exhibit or enter something at

the fair.” While meeting frequency and

attendance requirements may vary by county or even club, the meetings offer opportunities to do project work, view demonstrations, have guest speakers and do community service projects beyond the formal business of the meetings. Within the clubs, students have the opportunity to

explore topics tailored to their interest, which most are centered around learning by doing.

“They have 200 kinds of projects they can do involving animals and robotics, cooking, sewing, woodworking, just about anything they can do a project on,” Foxx said.

The children learn about more than just the projects they complete.

"Responsibility is something that we hope all members learn, from being a contributing member, to helping with a service project, to taking care of an animal or completing another project.”

- Kathy Blackford

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“Responsibility is something that we hope all members learn, from being a contributing member, to helping with a service project, to taking care of an animal or completing another project,” Blackford said. “Kids work together as members of a club and so they have the opportunity to learn cooperation, kindness, decision-making, public speaking skills and how to work together to see an idea through.”

“Personally, I think 4-H is a great way to learn life skills, leadership skills, be a part of a team, set goals and make lots of friends,” Blackford added.

Foxx noted that some of these skills aren’t as easily gained in academics, “4-H teaches them to be responsible, contributing citizens.”

On Saturday, Jan. 16, steer weigh-ins occurred for Ashland County club members at the Ashland County Fairgrounds for those who plan to show market steers at the fair in September.

Nankin resident Dylan Kerr, 13, is a fifth-year member of the Barnyard Bunch 4-H club.

“My dad’s a farmer, so I like getting to work with animals and be with them,” Kerr said.

In his fourth year participating in 4-H, Garrett Kern, 10, said raising steers has taught him life lessons.

“4-H teaches you to make a commitment,” he said. In addition to raising steers, Loudonville resident

Annette Augustine, 11, said she also has cows, pigs and lambs on her farm that she works with for 4-H.

Augustine, in her third year with Loudonville High Risers 4-H club, does more than complete activities and projects about livestock.

“We also do canoeing and service work in our group,” Augustine said.

Programs are always being expanded and evaluated at 4-H, with Ashland adding STEM areas and Wayne County looking for more opportunities for Cloverbuds.

Learn more about 4-H in your area or become a volunteer by visiting www.ohio4h.org

Market steer are brought through the beef barn at the Ashland County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Jan. 16

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A what? Yep, a dibble – used to make holes to plant seeds.

On the early farmsteads, where the forest had only just been cleared away to allow light for starting a farm, the ground was filled with roots from the many stumps that remained, as well as stones that were ensnared in their grip.

One of the very first things a housewife would have done upon settling was to plant a garden near the residence, using seeds she would have brought from the

place the family had migrated from. However, getting the seeds planted to the proper depth in the uncultivated and ungrubbed ground would have been a daunting challenge.

To help in this regard she employed a dibble, the sharp point of which could be twisted into the ground or tapped with a wooden mallet to open a seed hole.

Dibbles come in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes the tip is covered with tin or sheet iron for durability.

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Rising energy costs and a growing desire to live more eco-friendly lifestyles has spurred interest in solar panels

to power our homes. Although solar panels have been around for quite some time, only recently have homes cloaked in panels aimed at capturing the rays of the sunsolar panels begun to be so visible.

The World Meteorological Organization reported that the solar industry saw a robust expansion of 41 percent in 2013, and that popularity continues to grow. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association®, in 2015 the solar industry grew an 34 percent more than 2013 figures. Through the first half of the year, the solar industry supplied 40 percent of all new 2015 electric generating capacity — more than any other energy technology. Solar energy

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now has the cumulative electric capacity to power more than 4.6 million average American homes.

According to Green Tech Media, American solar companies are now installing one solar system every four minutes. If the market continues to grow at this pace, through 2016 there will be a system installed every 20 seconds. These gains in the solar industry may have been spurred on by the Solar Investment Tax Credit, which the SEIA says has helped to lower the cost of solar energy by more than 73 percent.

HOW DOES SOLAR ENERGY WORK?Solar energy is turned into electric power through the

photovoltaic (PV) cells located in the solar panels. The PV cells transform sunlight into direct electric current. An inverter built into the system converts the DC electricity into the alternating current (AC) that powers homes. The AC is sent to the home’s electrical panel and used to power lights and other devices.

WHAT HAPPENS AT NIGHT?Unless a home is self-contained and off the grid, the

average homeowner will not have to worry about night usage or batteries to store energy. He or she will continue to use energy off of the traditional electrical system at night. Many electrical costs will be offset by the amount of extra solar energy put back into the grid. There are a variety of programs, and some homeowners may even reverse bills further based on how much electricity is generated.

SOLAR PANEL NEEDS

Although it is ideal to have a south-facing location for panels, this is not an absolute necessity. According to SolarEnergy.net, positioning solar panels to face west or south will work, and even southeast-, east- and north-northwest-facing panels can produce adequate energy savings.

The type of roof may affect costs. Solar panels will not harm the roof when installed correctly, but ornate Spanish tiles or other roofing material may increase solar panel installation costs. Many homeowners find that the solar panels protect the roof from extreme weather, heat and cold, providing an extra bonus to solar energy.

SOLAR PANEL COSTS

The “soft costs” associated with solar energy can be substantial. Such costs include permits, installation and labor. Energy Informative indicates that the solar panels themselves are relatively affordable, at an average cost of $6,500. However, the entire process of installing

residental solar systems can end up costing anywhere between $15,000 and $40,000. Homeowners may be able to lease solar panel systems to make solar energy a more affordable option.

Solar energy continues to be a hot topic and a growing trend in home energy solutions.

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28 Winter 2016

The EARTH, God’s Gift to MankindStory by | Javon MillerDIX COMMUNICATIONS CONTRIBUTOR

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth, … And God blessed them and said to them, Be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth,

and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and over every living creature that moves upon the earth. And God said, See, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the land and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food.”

We see that God gave us the earth’s resources to feed mankind. The question that I often ask myself is this, what are we doing with this gift that God gave us?

I have been challenged recently about this subject. I grew up on a farm and yet, we did not have a dairy until I was working at a day job. In the evening and weekends we still made hay and had chores to do. We always had calves that we started and sold as springers, heifers ready to calve shortly. How many of our young generation today knows what a springer is?

We also had half a dozen to 8 sows until the bottom dropped out of the hog market. This was something that I always enjoyed as a young boy, going out and feeding the hogs. Smelly maybe, but what a pleasure to see the

squealing piglets all in row happily sucking on the gorged udder of a sow, mother pig. The sow was in her own world of ecstasy according to the delighted grunts that emanated from her snout.

A local fellow that I was chatting with lives on a farm but has not actively farmed in years. He told me that is buying hens to produce their own eggs. I have done this for about 10 years now. His view on the whole matter was that financially it is probably better

to just buy them at the store. We both agreed that the price is not why we go to the effort to raise our own eggs. The true purpose is to stay connected with our food source. We still have control on the way our chickens are fed and handled. It is important to some of us that our children learn to appreciate the effort that we put into our food sources. There are also many fringe benefits. We are aware of where our food actually comes from and the way that God provides for us.

There are two situations that I will refer to, both young Amish men. The one grew up on the family’s homestead but dad was a day laborer. As the story goes, another sibling married and started dairy farming at home. The first time that Junior was served raw farm milk at home, he realizes that this is what he saw being milked in the milking parlor. He had to refuse the milk. Junior said that he cannot drink this milk now that he see where it comes from.

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The other situation is a young Amish man that grew up on a postage stamp property. His parents never had an interest in agricultural things. This young lad married and moved to his own micro-sized homestead. In passing conversation, the subject of food supply comes up. One fellow that was in the conversation raised chickens, ducks, and turkeys for their own use. After the butchering day this group of men were discussing the basics of processing their own meat at home and then the preparation for the table. This young man’s father-in-law asked him whether he could eviscerate and prepare for freezing his own poultry. To the shame of Americans, this young man shook his head no. He had never helped with this part of the food chain. He would have no idea if it came down to the point that he needed to help himself. Granted, he has many friends and neighbors that would be willing to help, but this man grew up in a rural setting with these skills being a necessity to his ancestors. Due to both sets of grandparents choosing to live in away that no longer embraced this part of life, he is two generations off of the farm and has no idea how to prepare his own food from farm to table.

My point in revealing these two situations is not to belittle these fellows, but to bring out a point. In general,

if America’s food supply chain were interrupted, what would actually happen? The majority of today’s people have no idea where the food that they buy at the grocery store actually comes from. They have no understanding of the effort that goes into getting it there. I have actually heard of people commenting, when hearing about a drought, animal disease or some other reason that a food shortage comes up, “What does it matter? We can always go to the grocery store and get some more.”

Please folks, is that what we believe? Do we actually believe that all this meat, eggs, and produce actually just ends up in a warehouse cooler or freezers packaged and ready to go?

On the other hand, do we realize how many preservatives and additives are added to the packaged products to make them shelf stable for weeks to months before being eaten?

I feel unworthily blessed to have grown up in a family that was taught how to produce and process our own food. I will admit, at times it might be easier to just buy it at the grocery store. I tend to look at the benefits of this extra labor.

My one reason to pursue this lifestyle is the connection it gives my family to the reality of our food supply, Here

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is a short story that reaffirms that statement.My sons know that those fluffy little balls of down

known as chicks will eventually grown up and become adult. They also know that adult chickens are roosters and can be overly aggressive. One particular memory that they will probably never forget was a rooster that they named Cocky Locky. I have a preference for variety. Because of this I have a fascination with the Cornish game type cocks. These cute and cuddly little chicks grow up to be feisty little cocks. These roosters look a bit small with their shiny tight fitting feather cloaks, much like today’s wrestlers. Beware, if you turn your back, they show the heart of Goliath the warrior. Let your imagination combine these two bits of information and you can conclude why the name Cocky Locky. A friendly warning, never bite the hand that feeds you. Yes, this little fireball attacked us. It did not take Cocky long to decide that if I am around he better lurk around the back corners. My sons, however are smaller and were fair game.

Unfortunately for Mr. Locky, he took his game too far. We also had a fair sized porker named Henry in the adjacent pen. Mr. Locky was always trying to escape the safety of our fence. Now Henry, as we all know the fate of pigs, was scheduled to take a field trip one day. By some

misunderstanding, I got the wrong day on my calendar. Therefore Henry got two extra days added to his life. On the last full day of Henry’s residence at the Locust Lane Homestead, Mr. Locky wanted some excitement. He challenged Henry to a duel. It is now a well established fact that pigs enjoy chicken as much as I do. The only difference is they don’t care how it is marinated. Today when we eat pork chops or sausage, occasionally one of the boy’s will say, “This tastes like Cocky Locky.” All that we found of the dueling loser was a leg and two tail feathers.

To our boys, reality is king. These little baby animals grow up and become our sustenance. As we feed and care for our animals, gardens and orchard, we are providing future food for our table.

Raising our own food might not be the cheapest way financially. However, we know what we are eating. We have control of what gets put into it. And we have the pleasure of caring for it. We will always know that our eggs are fresh. Many store-bought eggs are 3-4 weeks old by the time you get them. Taste a home raised broiler or turkey once and you will be surprised at the difference from a commercial raised one.

In the future, I will touch on our orchard and garden but we will give you primer. What is better than picking

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a crisp, tangy apple off of the tree in autumn? Taste for yourself the sweetness of raw peas, straight off the vine. What about the freshness of newly dug potatoes, carrots or radish? A fresh garden salad with various greens tossed together. The solid head called lettuce from the grocery stores produce department barely justifies its namesake.

I just challenge my readership to consider your food source. What can you do to stay connected? We lose a lot for our future generations if our children believe that food just appears on the store shelves. As we lose our touch with food production, we also lose our sense of reality in life. Take many of our “leaders” in Washington as an example. Many have never experienced the joys and sweat of an honest days labor. They have never had the pleasure of eating the fruits of their labor. Therefore they, at times, make ruling decisions that are based on textbook answers instead of reality. I fear this will one day be the downfall of the American people as we lose our family structure and sense of reality.

“Every little step away from our heritage is two steps for our children.”

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Recognizing Local Historical Farms

Adams CountyHedrick, 1914Laurie, 1911

Allen CountyGoodman, 1884Ashland CountyWilkins & Young, 1837

Athens CountyCline, 1879Windfall Ridge, 1915

Auglaize CountyDammeyer, 1890Elshoff, 1880Hoffman, 1881Hollman, 1852Hollman, 1886Jacoby, 1853Riethman, 1851Thobe, 1846

Belmont CountyPickens, 1808

Brown CountyKlein, 1881Boler, 1906Holton, 1866Neal, 1893

Butler CountyBaker, 1914

Carroll CountyEick, 1885

Champaign CountyDagger, 1891

Clark CountyKesler, 1811Hardacre, 1811

Clinton CountyDeVoe, 1899Strafford, 1913

Coshocton CountyBoyd, 1890

Darke CountyKrickenbarger, 1879Ganger, 1835Spille, 1907

Defiance CountyBrown, 1915

Delaware CountyMain, 1876

Erie CountyBertsch, 1865

Fulton CountyGarrow, 1908Riegsecker, 1889

Gallia CountyBurdell, 1915Massie, 1914Niday, 1904

Geauga CountyJudd, 1844Patterson, 1902Sage, 1867Stone, 1840

Guernsey CountyKennedy, 1905

Hancock CountyDeeds, 1890Dills, 1912

Hardin CountyKellogg, 1893

Henry CountyDominique, 1905Powell, 1890

Highland CountyBehm, 1903Carey, 1834Carr, 1872Igo, 1813Rogers, 1878

Holmes CountyYoder-Miller, 1816

Huron CountyHilaman, 1907

This Information was Compiled by the Ohio Department of Agriculture

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Licking CountyWells, 1893

Marion CountyMcKinniss, 1914

Mercer CountyCuster-Muhlenkamp, 1841Grube, 1882Huwer, 1882Kramer, 1850Selhorst, 1883Uhlenhake, 1846Ungruhn, 1866

Miami CountyFessler, 1831Redinbo, 1852Westfall, 1899

Monroe CountyWittenbrook, 1866

Morrow CountySwetland, 1816

Muskingum CountyMartin, 1841McGee, 1806Montgomery, 1857Rambo, 1800

Ottawa CountyBlausey, 1864Blausey, 1904

Paulding CountyNoffsinger, 1894Renollet, 1857

Preble CountyBesecker, 1881Ulrich, 1860

Putnam CountyBogart, 1864Groff, 1905Halker, 1913Kehres, 1861Kleinhenz, 1903Kleman, 1904

Knueven, 1905Prowant, 1885Schumacher, 1915Shalter, 1882

Sandusky CountyReineck, 1912Schlievert, 1887

Seneca CountyPeter, 1883Peter, 1904

Shelby CountyGaier, 1862Redinbo, 1884Renner, 1826

Stark CountyMarkle, 1895Snyder, 1887

Trumbull CountyRust, 1914

Van Wert CountyMueller, 1863

Wayne CountyStoller, 1912

Williams CountyBlair-Altman, 1837Altman (Maplelane), 1874Dietsch, 1875Rogers, 1912Sanders, 1869

Wood CountyBresler-Bringman, 1837Kreienkamp, 1912Manecke, 1908Powell, 1898Pratt, 1825Welling, 1901

Wyandot CountyMcDaniel, 1882Smith, 1874

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The Farmers Market

Story by | Kate MinnichHARVEST WRITER & DESIGNER

In today’s day and age consumers want to know where their food is coming from and to interact with the producer. According to statistics from the

USDA Farmers Market, more than 8,500 markets are currently in operations throughout the country – an increase of 180% since 2007. Farmers market provide an avenue for consumer to gain direct access local farmers and the products that they produce. John Boyer of Honey Haven Farm has noticed a correlation between the interaction with the customer and the loyalty that follows. It has been John’s experience that a quality farmers market experience can determined the quality of contacts available to a producer.

The atmosphere at a good farmers market is one of mutual respect and consumer interactions. Customers who frequent these markets are not only looking for vine ripe produce or locally raised meats but also desire to get to know the growers and learn how they care for their gardens and animals. Adding a personal touch to any transaction could guarantee future sales and once the loyalty of a customer is captured the business will remain

Farmer John maintains his own market five days a week while also holding a booth at the Ashland Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. By running his own market, John is able to cater more toward his customers. His own market features a wider selection of his items than the Ashland Market due to the accessibility of the items. Those who want to avoid the crowd of the market or purchase a particular item or quantity can visit John’s market at Honey Haven Farm.

Continuing to appear at the Ashland Market, Farmer John works to build his clientele and maintain his current customer base. Customers who visit farmers markets are shopping for the farmer as much as the produce, meaning the customer is looking for a personal interaction. John refers to the experience as putting on a show for the customers while making them feel

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welcome and completely at ease. A simple method for creating positive experiences is to freely offer advise on recipes and different produce combinations. Farmer John will place relevant recipes beside his produce and invite customers to pick them up to try something new. Through these interactions the customers begin to trust the producer and will likely come back time and again.

At a farmers market competitors are placed side by side and a customer’s ultimate choice might come down to the price point. In an ideal situation the atmosphere of the market should not be affected by the various prices. Farmer John prices his products in accordance with their quality and encourages every vendor to price their products accordingly. Initially the customer may be attracted to the 50-cent cucumbers, but if they take the produce home and the quality is not present they will be turned off by the vendor. The next time they may pay for the more fairly priced cucumber to be sure of the quality.

Traditionally farmers markets have been a cash only business but as consumer rely more heavily on debit and credit cards the vendors too have transitioned. John remembers one couple who collected five dollars worth of produce, but did not have the cash to cover the amount. The pair ended up digging around in their car for spare change in order to cover the bill. For this reason regular farmers market vendors have started to carry credit card machines such as Square and PayPal, to allow customers to pay in whichever form is most convenient.

Research is critical if considering a credit card machine. With several types and providers available to individuals the differences may end up costing your business more in the long run. Fees can add up -- decreasing the profit margins, some allow direct access to the money while others despoit into your account days later. Consider your cash flow needs and desired profitability and weigh this against potential lost sales by not offering alternative payment options.

Farmers market committees have noted the rising

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payment problem and there are a couple who have taken steps to remedy the situation. The Countryside Farmers’ Market out of Northeast Ohio allows customers to purchase produce with tokens. Customers who come to the market without cash can buy tokens in five-dollar increments with a debit card. The customer incurs a fee to do so but they are able to use the resulting tokens like cash throughout the market. At the end of the market, vendors cash in the tokens and receive their payment.

Welcome items and participation rules at farmer markets are dependent upon the market committee. The Tuscarawas Valley Farmers Market prefers all items to be grown and produced within a seventy-five mile radius of Dover/New Philadelphia. Other markets such as the one held in downtown Wooster ask that every vendor supplies items produced within a twenty-five mile radius and only twenty-five percent of the product can be supplemental material. This supplemental material must be labeled with the producer’s name. Each market also has their own set of rules govenering product quality and freshness.

Supplemental products bought at wholesale are frowned upon by most of the area’s market committees. Farmer John acknowledges a small benefit to buying produce in bulk but does not care for the lack of control

over the quality of product. Well aware that he is not able to grow everything on his own farm, John prefers to contract different produce out to farmers he trusts. Choosing the kind of seed he wishes to be planted and the way in which the produce is to be cared for, Farmer John never loses control of the produce he sells. “We all have talents, some of us are better at growing things that others are not.”

Farmers markets have seen differences in produce in recent years due to the evolution of greenhouses and high tunnels. The stable warmth offered by a greenhouse and the development of growing certain items in high tunnels has led to the increased produce availability. Farmer John is now able to offer tomatoes earlier in the season and is able to price them a bit higher as a result of the demand for vine fresh tomatoes.

With the rising demand for vine ripe produce from a source customers can trust, farmer markets can be a lucritive and personally rewarding experience for local producers. Vendors who wish to make the most of their market experience should be aware of the competitive but cooperative culture of most markets. While prices and quality may vary, the attitude expressed by a vendor can determine the loyalty of customers.

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While the recent increase in the price of eggs has captured consumers’ attention, the process of producing those eggs and how it affects the

price, however, is likely not as familiar.Egg farmers and retailers have worked together to

study several factors involved in egg production, with an emphasis on ensuring food safety and affordability. The Coalition for Sustainable Egg Supply - which includes leading experts in animal welfare, academic institutions, non-government organizations, egg suppliers, restaurants and food retailers - has released the results of its research study.

“Consumer interest in how hens are housed has been growing. However, good science-based information about the sustainability of various hen housing systems and egg production has not been available on a commercial scale,” said Darrin Karcher, Extension Specialist in the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University and CSES Project Director.

Hen Housing Makes a Difference

To support broader understanding, leading scientists at Michigan State University, University of California, Davis and elsewhere studied flocks of hens in three different types of housing:

* Conventional cage: Nearly 95 percent of eggs are produced in these systems, where six to nine laying hens share space.

* Enriched colony: This type of housing provides more space per bird than conventional cages and also offers perches, nesting areas and scratch pads.

* Cage-free: Hens can roam through defined sections of an enclosed barn and can exhibit additional natural behaviors, such as dust bathing and attempted flight.

The Survey SaysOver the course of three years, researchers measured

and compared five different sustainability factors in

each housing system: animal health and well-being, food safety and quality, the environment, worker health and safety, and food affordability.

Researchers found a variety of positive and negative aspects with each system. Of interest to many consumers, eggs produced in conventional cage housing had the lowest cost of production, in part because that system had the lowest hen mortality rate and required the least amount of labor to maintain.

“With these science-based research results, we have a better understanding of hen housing sustainability. Consumers can use this information to make informed purchasing decisions that best align not only with their values about how hens should be housed, but also their grocery budgets,” Karcher said.

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Recent mild weather has set the stage for what could be a significant infestation of potentially deadly parasites in sheep and goats this spring, a

Purdue Extension expert says.Mark Kepler, Extension educator in Fulton County

and a goat producer, said the barber pole worm, the most common internal parasite among small ruminants, lays its eggs around the time of lambing and kidding, typically in late winter and early spring.

Kepler said the parasite eggs survive longer on warmer ground, increasing the chances they hatch and develop into worms to infest animals.

LAMBS, KIDS AT RISK

“At kidding and lambing time, the potential worm load is a lot greater,” Kepler said. “It is a killer. The eggs are excreted and after hatching they climb up a blade of grass to be consumed, affecting the animal. In usual springtime conditions, the process proceeds quickly.”

Most lambs and kids are turned out to pasture when the weather warms.

“Come spring and warm temperatures, those worms are just itching to go find some young animal to prey upon,” Kepler said. “Older animals are more immune, but still susceptible.”

If left untreated, worm infestations can cause anemia

Winter Warmth Could Lead to Greater Parasite Risk:

for Sheep and GoatsStory by |Emma Hopkins

AG ANSWERS

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by consuming the host’s blood and eventually damaging an animal’s vital organs, including the lungs, liver and stomach. Producers can use fecal testing to determine whether their herds have been infested.

But treating the parasites can be difficult.“There is a lot of parasitic resistance to deworming

medications,” Kepler said. “Control of these worms is just not as simple as repeatedly giving the same drug over and over again.”

Kepler offered these tips to avoid major worm problems in the spring:

* Do not overuse deworming drugs. Overuse can lead to the parasites developing resistance to the drugs.

* Use fecal samples to determine if the deworming medication is working.

* Rotate pastures to reduce worm potential. Do not let animals graze pastures into the ground.

* Cull members of the flock or herd that are genetically more susceptible to worms.

TALK TO A VET

Although worms are less active in winter months, Kepler said animals could be susceptible to external parasites such as mites in colder temperatures.

“There are several different types of mites that affect animals in different locations,” he said. “Goats can lose hair around their lower legs, eyes, muzzles or ears, and the skin will redden and become crusty.”

Kepler said it is necessary to work with a veterinarian when treating goats or sheep for any major parasite issues.

“Effective parasite treatment takes management, knowledge and professional advice,” he said. “I really encourage people to speak with a veterinarian about treatment.”

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Several times I have been asked how much liability coverage a farm should carry. I have never had a good answer. Recently, Peggy Hall,

OSU Extension Ag Law Resource Program and Emily Adams, Extension Educator Coshocton County, wrote an article that addresses that question. Here is what they have to say:

Farm liability insurance is one of the most common tools for agricultural risk management. You should annually review your insurance policies with your insurance agent to make sure that all aspects of your farming operation are covered.

What levels of liability coverage are recommended?According to Virginia Cooperative Extension, the

consensus of insurance professionals is that any type of farm should have at least $1 million in coverage. But $1 million may not be enough for many farm operations in Ohio, based upon the farm’s assets and activities. A rule of thumb suggests an amount of coverage equal to the extent of your assets. For example, $5 million worth of real estate would mean $5 million in coverage. Another rule of thumb from Virginia Cooperative Extension is to obtain sufficient coverage to help you sleep at night. Request a quote for varying levels of coverage, and then gauge the increased cost compared to the increased comfort of higher coverage.

What should you review in your liability policy?

What is the aggregate limit of the policy? The aggregate limit is the maximum amount your insurer will pay to settle your claims during the policy period, which is typically on an annual basis. Is this amount sufficient to address your risk?

What types of incidents are covered by your general

Are You Carrying Enough Farm

Liability Insurance?

Story by |Rory LewandowskiEXTENSION EDUCATOR, AG/NR OSU EXTENSION

HARVEST 41

liability insurance? A standard policy covers liability for bodily injury or property damage arising from incidents related to the farm business and its premises and operations, and can include incidents arising from sales of raw produce from a farm roadside stand. Does this general coverage address all of your farming activities?

What activities are not covered by your general liability insurance? A standard policy lists activities that are specifically excluded from coverage, which might include custom farming, special events on the farm, processed food products, farmer’s market sales and other off-farm activities, and non-farming businesses like excavation, snow removal or landscaping. Are you in need of additional coverage for these types of activities?

Does your coverage extend to your employees, family members and representatives and their actions? It is important to understand who a policy defines as “the insured,” which typically includes you as the policyholder and any legal entities you name for the farm business. A standard policy might also include farm employees

and relatives residing with the policyholder as insured parties. Is everyone involved in your farm’s operations included in the policy?

What gaps might exist in your liability policy?

What changes have been made in structures, land, equipment or other farm assets? If the value of your

assets has grown since you first obtained your policy, you may need to revise your coverage limits.

What additional agricultural activities or other enterprises are in need of coverage? If you are involved in new enterprises or agricultural activities, you may need to increase your coverage or obtain an additional policy

endorsement that addresses the activity.How does your policy address harm from manure,

fertilizers, chemicals or contaminants? Most often, this type of harm is deemed “pollution” that is excluded from general liability coverage. A standard policy will likely define “pollution” as a discharge or dispersal of

"You should annually review your insurance policies with your insurance agent to make sure that all aspects of your

farming operation are covered.”

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chemicals, wastes or contaminants on the farm premises, on another property or during transport. Is there a high risk of discharge of manure, fertilizer or chemicals in your farming operation that is not covered by your policy?

Do you need to address pollution risk? If you use, store or transport manure, fertilizer or chemicals, you should assess the risk of a discharge that could affect crops, livestock, a waterway or another’s property. Supplemental coverage is available to address “pollution” incidents, which typically addresses sudden, accidental discharges of materials used in normal farming operations. Because pollution coverage can vary widely, it is important to understand both your risk of an incident as well as the limitations of your pollution coverage.

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You cause a chemical spill when traveling from one farm location to another?

One of your farm employees causes an accident while driving machinery on a roadway?

You are the cause of an accident while plowing snow for a neighbor?

A family member is involved in an accident while custom baling hay on someone else’s property?

Make the time to know what’s in your policy.

A SURVEY FOR OHIO FARMERS WITH GRAIN STORAGE BINS

Ohio farmers are being asked to complete a survey about their current grain handling and storage systems. This information will be used to develop future training programs specific for Ohio grain facilities. The research project is being conducted by a graduate student in the OSU Ag Safety and Health program, under the direction of Dee Jepsen, OSU Extension State Safety Leader. The project was funded by the Bureau of Workers Compensation. The aim of this research is to identify safety and health practices used on Ohio farms and then to help solve (or at least reduce) the hazards when working around grain storage facilities.

The survey does not collect personal information that could be traced back to the producer, the responses are anonymous. All farmers who own, manage, or use on-farm grain bin structures are eligible to complete the survey. The survey is available online at the following site: http://tiny.cc/grainsafetysurvey. The survey is also available on the Wayne County Extension website at: http:// go.osu.edu/agwayne.

Rory Lewandowski is an OSU Extension Agriculture & Natural Resources educator and may be reached at 330-264-8722.

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Ohio Farm Bureau Restructuring Membership

Story by |Thomas DoohanDIX COMMUNICATION

The Ohio Farm Bureau has long been a strong voice for farmers in the state and, to ensure that continues, the organization is making changes to

its membership structure.Wayne County Farm Bureau organizational Director

John Fitzpatrick shared a few details of the new structure with Ag Leaders, which met at the Green Leaf Restaurant on January 6, 2016.

Fitzpatrick said what was known as an associate membership is being changed to community membership. The organization also is establishing two

new membership categories — young active membership and our Ohio supporter.

What makes the community membership stand out from the old membership category is the name, he said. The young active membership category is the same as the traditional active membership level, but is available only for farmers ages 18-24 and has lower dues. The our Ohio supporter category is similar to community membership, but with fewer benefits and at a reduced cost.

Fitzpatrick said the changes have happened, in part, to create more opportunities for people to get involved

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in the Farm Bureau. He said there are changes coming down the pike that might affect membership levels and it is hoped extra categories “keep a large base and create a strong economy within Farm Bureau to continue to represent farmers in the way we need to represent them.”

The changes Fizpatrick referred to involve the organization’s relationship with Nationwide Insurance. He said the company, which was born out of the Ohio Farm Bureau and initially called Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance, has always given discounts to Ohio Farm Bureau members.

However, in future years, the insurance discounts will be given only to active members.

Fitzpatrick said the loss of the insurance discounts are expected to drop membership. Lower membership could decrease the impact the Farm Bureau’s voice has in legislative matters. He said that is significant, as also vying for the attention of political leaders are many other voices that may not have in mind the interest of the agricultural industry, one of Ohio’s largest.

Tom Stocksdale, a senior vice president at Farmers National Bank, said fewer and fewer people have a good understanding of what agriculture looks like. Each generation gets further removed from the farm and that impacts how individuals view the industry. That affects the issues they are passionate about.

“More and more issues are being consumer driven,” Fitzpatrick said, adding issues they are advocating for are not always fully researched by their proponents.

Farm Bureau aims at correcting misunderstandings of agricultural issues and advocating for the industry in the legislature, he said. It employs gifted communicators and individuals with understanding of the legislative process to help advocate for the industry.

Stocksdale said advocating for agriculture, just like Farm Bureau does, is important. He said agriculture is a top industry across the state and across the nation.

Bringing the issue home for the group, Stocksdale said the strength of agriculture across the state impacts Wayne County significantly. In his travels across the state, he said he sees farmers making improvements on their farms employing Wayne County companies to do the work.

“All that money rolls back to Wayne County,” Stocksdale said. “We need to find ways to keep our infrastructure strong.”

Reporter Thomas Doohan can be reached at 330-287-1635 or tdoohan@the-daily-record.com.

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“Presidential candidates and their political handlers in both parties would be wise to learn from the thirty-plus year failed record

of U.S. ‘free trade’ corn export promises before attacking the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), the most successful domestic rural economic development policy in modern history,” said Gale Lush, a farmer from Wilcox, NE and Chairman of the American Corn Growers Foundation (ACGF). “Had we relied on exports without the ethanol RFS for essential new corn demand market growth since 2005 the rural economy would have experienced a meltdown. So why would any presidential candidate want to dismantle such a successful, economic development infrastructure? The ethanol RFS and ethanol industry create hundreds of thousands of jobs and keep the price of gasoline at the pump as much as $1 per gallon lower for consumers. RFS energy policy is ‘all American’ vs

U.S. fossil fuel incentives that subsidize foreign oil interests. The ethanol RFS serves the economic security of America.”

Dan McGuire, ACGF Project Director and export policy analyst points out that U.S. corn exports will only hit 1.7 billion bushels in the 2015-2016 marketing year that ends on August 31, according to the January 12, 2016 U. S. Department of Agriculture WASDE report. “During the 1980’s-1990’s farm-trade policy ‘restructuring regime’ agribusiness economists and ‘trade experts’ projected U.S. corn exports would hit 2-3 billion bushels consistently by now. They missed that mark by a country mile,” said McGuire. “The low end of USDA’s projected 2015-16 average corn price is only $3.30 per bushel. Some cash prices have dropped below $3.00 in recent months in South Dakota. Rosy U.S. export forecasts didn’t just miss the mark on corn exports. They were even worse on wheat exports which will only hit 800 million bushels this year according to USDA. That’s only about 50% of what wheat exports were in the 1980s. Imagine what the cash corn (and wheat) price would be without 5.2 billion bushels of domestic corn demand from ethanol right here in our U. S. homegrown market. Without the ethanol RFS both corn and wheat would have seen many years of disastrous prices.”

“The 1980’s rosy U.S. ‘export-oriented’ farm policy has yet to deliver. Export levels forecast then are an aberration if they are reached at all. The ‘record’ agricultural exports we hear officials talk about are in

30+ Years of Failed ‘Free Trade’ Export Promise Confirms Ethanol RFS Policy

Must Stay Permanent

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$ value terms, not export quantities. In any case strong corn export value resulted from stronger corn prices which were a direct result of domestic corn demand and strong corn utilization by ethanol plants. Americans cannot afford to allow the domestic U.S. corn demand and price infrastructure to be undermined. Furthermore, corn used for ethanol production does not compete with corn for human food as anti-renewable oil industry spin activists suggest. The feed components of that yellow field corn still go to livestock feed and U.S. motorists

realize the major economic benefit of buying cheaper gas at the pump by as much as $1.00 per gallon less than it would be without ethanol blended in”, said McGuire. “U.S. taxpayers have subsidized fossil fuels for about 100 years, including foreign oil exploration. The ethanol RFS supports American jobs when our country seriously needs them. Politicians that do not realize this are not paying attention. The RFS should stay permanent policy.”

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