2011 Projects
Arizona | California | Colorado | Guam | Hawaii | Idaho | Micronesia | Montana | Nevada | New Mexico | Northern Marianas Islands | Oregon | Washington | Wyoming
Producer Grant: FW11-017, “Agricultural Soil Amendment Project (ASAP),” Principal Investigator: Bill Edwards, P.O. Box 5545, Leupp, AZ, 86035, 928-286-6101, billbee4@hopitelecom.net; Technical Advisor: Stacy Jensen, Northern Arizona University, 928-401-7287, sej26@nau.edu; $14,870.
In the arid southwest, at best, topsoil is poor and thin. ASAP will demonstrate to Native Navajo farmers how to increase the soil nutrient content, improve soil quality, increase crop yield and reduce alkaline buildup, through the addition of soil amendments, composting and cover copping. What sets this project apart is the use of Mycorrhizae fungi as a major component of the soil amendment process, along with the cover crop of annual rye, Dutch clover, field peas, tiller radish and hairy vetch. ASAP will conduct the soil management project using four ½ acre demonstration plots. After demonstrating to the community the viability of cover cropping and the use of green manure, these practices will be embraced by the community. The increased yield will allow the members of the farming community to have excess produce to sell. PowerPoint presentations, storyboards, posters and brochures will be a part of the workshops that will be conducted with the other farming communities and the local schools. PowerPoint, storyboards and brochures presentations will be shown at the chapter house in English and Navajo.
Producer Grant: FW11-033, “Navajo Crop Demonstration Project,” Principal Investigator: Ernesto Zamudio, P.O. Box 599, Many Farms, AZ, 86538, 505-612-8857, ezbthnest@gmail.com; Technical Advisor: Dennis Chandler, Cocopai RC&D, 928-536-6856, dennis.chandler@az.usda.gov; $30,000.
Younger Navajos are assuming farm leases previously held by their parents and grandparents. They desire to return these small farm plots to the vibrant productive and sustainable farms that dotted the Navajo Reservation in the 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s. This project will provide five young to adult Navajo farmers with sufficient resources to develop demonstration plots that will become learning centers for local farmers to see how sound management activities and innovative technologies designed for farms with limited water resources can be used to bring Navajo farms back to be fully productive and sustainable. These five farmers are located in three locations: Many Farms, Ganado and Tsaile, Arizona. Each location has 26 to 32 fellow farmers that potentially can be affected by these demonstration farms, as well as over 300 farmers at the other eleven farming communities. Outreach efforts include six field days, two workshops, printed materials and personal contact with other producers and other communities.
Producer Grant: FW11-037, “Use of Wood Ash as Soil Amendment on Annual Rangeland,” Principal Investigator: Mel Thompson, 2360 Cox Lane, Oroville, CA, 95966, 530-532-4226, mmt@digitalpath.net; Technical Advisor: Glenn Nader, UC Cooperative Extension, 530-822-7515, ganader@ucdavis.edu; $28,995.
This project will address the rangeland use of wood ash from co-generation energy plants where biomass is used as feedstock for electricity production. Increased interest in biomass energy conversion is leading to increased wood ash production and concern for its management. Alternative uses of ash are being explored, including rangeland where it has potential as a low cost fertilizer and liming agent over large landscapes, and where commercial amendments are not economically feasible. The rangeland industry will benefit from specific research in ash application on sustainable grasslands. Demonstration of safe and efficient ash usage is a major goal of this project. Other goals include best application methods, rates and timing; more complete soil and vegetation analysis; soil moisture retention; forage production and species shift data; dust control; ash migration due to air and water flows; effective setback distances; and grazing differences between cattle and sheep. Outreach includes a field day with the ag media being invited.
Graduate Student Grant: GW11-001: “Pastured Poultry/Crop Systems and Their Effect on Food Safety, Farm Economy, and Soil Quality,” Principal Investigator: Kathleen Hilimire, Graduate Student, ENVS 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, 510-847-3679, khilimire@ucsc.edu; Major Professor: Stephen Gliessman, UC Santa Cruz, 831-459-5818, gliess@ucsc.edu; $24,807.
Integrating pastured poultry with fruit, vegetable and nut production is on the rise in California due to a high demand for pastured products and a desire by farmers to close on-farm fertility cycles. The rise in popularity of pasture-based agriculture has been accompanied by an increase in research, but there remain significant gaps in knowledge concerning Pastured Poultry/Crop Systems (PPCS). This project will conduct in-depth investigations of changes in soil fertility, soil organic matter and physical soil quality under PPCS in annual and orchard systems. It will also analyze the cost of this practice and its contribution to farm enterprise diversity. Finally, the project assesses the effect of PPCS on foodborne pathogen levels, generating management information for growers to prevent contamination. Farmers are collaborators in this research and its outreach. Outreach efforts include workshops, conferences and publications.
Graduate Student Grant: GW11-012, “Facilitating Integrated Weed Management in California Rice: Predicting E. spp. and C. diff. Emergence Across Heterogeneous Growing Environments,” Principal Investigator: Mark Lundy, Graduate Student, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, 530-902-7295, melundy@ucdavis.edu; Major Professor: Chris van Kessel, UC Davis, 530-752-7323, cvankessel@ucdavis.edu; $17,120.
Herbicide resistant weeds are an ever-worsening problem in California rice systems. By integrating cultural and chemical control of weeds, stale seedbed crop establishment has been shown to reduce herbicide resistant weed populations while simultaneously reducing herbicide inputs in direct seeded rice. However, management decisions are both more numerous and more complicated when growers use stale seedbeds for weed control. The overarching goal of the project is to develop a geographically and temporally sensitive decision support tool that predicts the minimum time required to achieve control of Echinochloa spp. and Cyperus difformis populations using stale seedbed management in direct-seeded rice. Coupled with effective outreach, this tool will facilitate the planning and execution of stale seedbeds and enable wider adoption of this establishment approach. Field days, growers’ meetings and extension networks will be utilized.
Professional + Producer Grant: OW11-318, “Pomo Tribal Supported Agriculture Program,” Principal Investigator: Terri McCartney, McCartney Farms, 3000 Shanel Road, Hopland, CA, 95449, 707-472-2100, mccartneyfarms@gmail.com; Producer Cooperator: Robinson Rancheria, 707-275-2226, marruf@robinsonrancheria.org; $49,963.
The Pomo face continuing mental, physical and spiritual health challenges directly related to the loss of a traditional food system that provided a healthy diet, social interaction, exercise and commodities to trade. There is a growing awareness of the value and need to grow a diverse selection of foods for the Tribal population, including seasonal Traditional food crops. The Pomo Tribal Supported Agriculture Program (PTSAP) will provide a series of hands-on workshops, farm-days and demonstrations based on UC Santa Cruz Agro-Ecology Course to Pomo Farmers over the course of the first year of the program. In addition, the PTSAP will facilitate the creation of weekly fruit stands/ markets at Pomo Tribal Pre-Schools during the first year. During the second year of the program, the agricultural professional will provide technical assistance and expertise to individual collaborating producers through on-site farm visits.
Research and Education Grant: SW11-116, “Integrated Rotation Systems for Soil Borne Disease, Weed and Fertility Management in Strawberry/Vegetable Production,” Principal Investigator: Carol Shennan, UC Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, 831-459-4181, cshennan@ucsc.edu; Cooperators: Steve Pederson, Gary Tanimura, Thomas Flewell, Jim Leap, Joji Muramoto, Steve Koike, Mark Bolda, Kenneth Kimes, Brett Melone, Megan Sabato, Dan Legard, Elizabeth Milazzo, Karen Klonsky, Glenn Noma, Miriam Olivera; $218,424.
Continued growth of organic strawberry and vegetable production in coastal California faces major challenges, namely soil-borne disease management without the use of chemical fumigants, efficient nutrient management to prevent spring and fall leaching losses and high costs for weeding. In conventional systems, due to stringent regulations and air quality concerns, the sustainability of chemical fumigant dependent systems is uncertain. A team of researchers, growers, farm advisors and NGOs will tackle these issues by testing combinations of three non-chemical approaches; anaerobic soil disinfestations, broccoli residue incorporation and mustard cake application. Outcomes will be disseminated through workshops, pamphlets, field trips, YouTube, eOrganic, extension publications, academic journals and newsletters. A demonstration field will be established at the Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association (ALBA), an NGO assisting limited-resource and aspiring growers.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-029, “Cal Poly Professional Development Compost Training and Establishment of the Cal Poly Compost Project,” Principal Investigator: Hunter Francis, CAFES Center for Sustainability, Cal-Poly State University, One Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93407, 805-756-5086, wfrancis@calpoly.edu; $57,582.
In spite of new interest in composting over the past decade, there is still significant untapped potential for agriculture to play a role in appropriate conversion of organic matter. Furthermore, where the opportunity has already been identified and acted upon, questions remain. This project will include a comprehensive, week-long professional development training program to be held at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo with the assistance of the Maine Compost School. The project will also use faculty and staff involvement in the planning and execution of the compost training to concurrently establish a faculty “compost consortium” and Cal Poly Compost Project to develop resources at Cal Poly on an on-going basis.
Producer Grant: FW11-010, “Alternative Crops to Diversify the Traditional Winter Wheat/Fallow Cropping System in Northwest Colorado,” Principal Investigator: Mike Williams, Box 115, Hayden, CO, 81639, 970-846-2255, amywilliams@mybrokers.com; Technical Advisors: CJ Mucklow, Colorado State University, 970-879-0825, cjmucklow@co.routt.co.us, Wayne Counts, Ag Producer, 970-326-8572, wheat.field@yahoo.com; $29,821
Desert vegetations, variable topography, quite heavy soils, highly variable and limited precipitation, a short growing season and very cold winters are some of the challenges that face producers in NW Colorado. Producers have traditionally been limited to growing mostly winter wheat and forages, using the outdated winter wheat/fallow production system. This project proposes to develop a new cropping system for NW Colorado that includes winter peas, a leguminous crop, which will diversify the winter wheat fallow crop production system. Oilseed crops will also be looked at. This new cropping system for NW Colorado will contribute to soil health productivity, provide additional farm income and fit well into winter wheat production. Additional benefits also include providing livestock feed locally instead of shipping it into the area. Introducing a leguminous crop into a traditional wheat-fallow cropping system will reduce the application of expensive commercial nitrogen fertilizers, increase needed crop diversity, disrupt weed, disease and insect cycles, spread crop production risks and reduce soil erosion and runoff.
Graduate Student Grant: GW11-019, “Impacts of Reduced Nitrogen Application During Late Growing Season on Potato Tuber Quality and Profitability,” Principal Investigator: Henry Castleberry, Graduate Student, 15 Batterson, Monte Vista, CO, 81144, 719-850-0607, hcastleberry@colostate.edu; Major Professor: Sastry Jayanty, Colorado State University, 719-754-3594, sastry.jayanty@colostate.edu; $24,490.
Harvesting and storage of immature potato tubers frequently result in significant economic losses in fresh market operations due to physical damage during harvest, weight loss and susceptibility to bruising in storage. A primary cause of immaturity is excessive nitrogen fertilization. Increased nitrogen can produce higher potato yields; however harvest damage and storage losses may offset any economic returns from increased yield. This project will focus on understanding the effects of different rates of late season application of nitrogen on tuber maturity of four russet potato cultivars. The project goal is to determine if potatoes grown in a sustainable system of reduced nitrogen inputs can produce improved economic returns. Outreach efforts include journal articles, field days and grower meetings.
Producer Grant: FW11-047, “Vermicomposting: Expanding Herb Production on Guam by Enhancing Soil Quality with Vermicompost,” Principal Investigator: Ike Guerrero, Guam, 671-797-0510, ikehilltopfarm@gmail.com; Technical Advisor: Margaret Denney, University of Guam, 671-483-9415, pegqpc1@yahoo.com; $14,250.
The soils of Guam all lack organic matter and require significant inputs of organic matter and fertilizers to sustain plant growth. In an effort to promote greater agricultural sustainability and reduce imports of fertilizers and various types of organic matter, thus reducing farmers' expenses and decreasing the incidence of importing invasive species, this project seeks to introduce vermicomposting to the island's farming community. The producer will create a setup for propagating the worms and will refine that process to ensure a continuous and increasing supply of worms for vermicomposting. The vermicompost that is generated will then be incorporated into the soil. Once the vermicomposting operation is deemed successful, an intensive outreach effort will be employed to expand vermicomposting throughout the island. Through the implementation of vermicomposting on a large scale, soil quality will be dramatically improved, fertilizer use will diminish, and thus imports of same will be reduced, and crop production will be enhanced, which will in turn decrease reliance on off-island markets.
Professional + Producer Grant: OW11-308, “Control of Coffee Berry Borer and Increase of Coffee Yields using Surround WP (kaolin),” Principal Investigator: Shawn Steiman, 1418 Mokuna Pl., Honolulu, HI, 96816, 808-223-0982, steiman@coffeaconsulting.com; Producer Cooperator: Bob Nelson, 808-322-2902, bob@lehuulafarms.com; $47,648.
The coffee berry borer is currently the world's most destructive coffee pest. Poor control of the beetle can results in yield losses of 20-30%. With adequate control measures, this loss can be reduced to 5% or lower. Unfortunately, some control measures for the beetle are not currently legal in Hawaii. Surround WP, a kaolin-based, organic certified, sprayable product, may be an effective control measure for the CBB. In addition, field research in Hawaii has demonstrated that Surround WP can double yields of coffee after two years of application. This project aims to explore the use of Surround WP to control CBB and to double yields of coffee by applying applications of Surround WP on five participating coffee farms in the Kona region of Hawaii, with two experimental treatments on each farm. At the end of each season, workshops will be held in Kona to educate farmers about the experiment and its results. Upon completion of the experiment, the results will be discussed at a local coffee conference and to coffee farmer groups upon request. If the results are encouraging for the use of the product, fact sheets and articles will be written.
Professional + Producer Grant: OW11-309, “Training Livestock to Eat Weeds in the Tropical Pacific and Evaluating the Effects on Meat Quality for Stronger Ranch Profits,” Principal Investigator: Matthew Stevenson, University of Hawaii, 3060 Eiwa Street #210, Lihue, HI, 96766, 808-274-3472, stevenso@hawaii.edu; Producer Cooperator: Randall Cremer, 808-639-6503, randalljkr@yahoo.com; $49,610.
This project aims to redefine certain pasture plants in the tropics and sub-tropics not as weeds but as regular parts of livestock diets. If successful, ranchers may reduce or eliminate herbicide use and thus lower production costs, maintain herbicide efficacy and greater safeguard human health. Beef cattle production is the largest livestock industry in Hawaii, and the effects of cattle eating weeds with high secondary compounds on beef quality have not been widely described. Ranchers and researchers have trained livestock in temperate regions to eat weeds that have high levels of secondary chemicals. The project will evaluate and demonstrate the efficacy or limitations of multi-species livestock training program by assessing short- and medium-term impacts on target plants, beef flavor and quality, effects on animal health and potential for rancher adoption in Hawaii. Outreach includes demonstrations, farmer networking, workshops and publications.
Professional + Producer Grant: OW11-310, “Master Farmer Workshop Series,” Principal Investigator: Diana King, RC&D, 99-193 Aiea Heights Dr. #111, Aiea, HI, 96701, 808-483-8600, diana.king@oahurcd.org; Producer Cooperator: Fred Lau, 808-625-2800, fred.lau@gmail.com; $49,812.
With the recent withdrawal of the major agricultural industries, agricultural lands that have been out of reach for decades are now opening up, and along with them, new opportunities for diversified farming. The O'ahu Resource Conservation and Development Council will sponsor a series of field days with Master Farmers at their farms. Each workshop will include a farm tour and presentation by the Master Farmer, two additional specialist speakers and presentations from RC&D staff and colleagues concerning conservation planning, grant funding, Farm Bill funding and other programs. Fact Sheets in each area of specialized farming will be distributed. Following each workshop, RC&D will communicate with attendees via email and solicit follow up questions for the Master Farmer. For approximately three months after each workshop, RC&D will assemble the questions for the Master Farmer to answer and post to the website.
Research and Education Grant: SW11-052, “Developing Sustainable Pest Control Practices Against Major Pests in Papaya in Hawaii,” Principal Investigator: Leyla Kaufman, University of Hawaii, 3050 Maile Way #310, Honolulu, HI, 96822, 808-956-2450, leyla@hawaii.edu; Cooperators: Melvin Matsuda, Kenneth Kamiya, Ross Sibucao, Orlando Manuel, Mark Wright, Koon-Hui Wang, Jari Sugano; $148,174
Hawaii is the largest papaya producing state in the country. Papaya farmers rely on extensive and routine pesticide applications to control a complex of pests. Papaya production is also affected by plant-parasitic nematodes. This project will research integrating organic pesticides with cover cropping as a sustainable papaya pest management strategy. Kaolin particle oil, sunn hemp and oils will be evaluated. Throughout the project, a continuous commitment will be made to disseminate research findings and promote the exchange of information between farmers, agricultural consultants, extension agents and other members of the agricultural community in order to encourage the adoption of these sustainable pest management strategies. An economic analysis will also be conducted.
Research and Education Grant: SW11-055, “Reducing Pacific Island Growers’ Reliance on Off-Island Fertilizer Sources through Improved Awareness and Efficient Use of Local Inputs,” Principal Investigator: Theodore Radovich, University of Hawaii, 808-956-7909, theodore@hawaii.edu; Cooperators: Nguyen Hue, Jari Sugano, Mark Hamamoto, Al Santoro, Tova Callender, Stanley Gurr, Fred Takebayashi, Alton Arakaki, Mark Cummings, Hector Valenzuela, Linda Cox, Leland Nishek, Kimo Franklin; $284,070.
Replacing imported fertilizers with local resources is the highest research, education and development priority identified by the participants of the Western SARE Hawai’i Subregional conference held in Kona, Hawaii. As commercial fertilizer costs increase with oil prices, a wide range of food producers in the Pacific region have become interested in locally available by-products that are suitable for use as agricultural inputs to improve crop health and productivity. These inputs include 1) commercial green-waste composts, 2) rendered animal products and 3) invasive algae from coral reef remediation projects. Although readily available, there are several bottlenecks preventing effective use and adoption by local growers. As a result, producers are unaware of resources available to them and unsure of their ability to profitably utilize the local resources they are aware of. This problem will be addressed via a series of greenhouse and on-farm trials in cooperation with university faculty, commercial growers and industry partners. The expected outcomes are that reliance on imported inputs will be reduced, grower profitability will increase in the near-term and the long-term stability of Pacific island foods systems will improve.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-014, “Hawai’i Community-Based Food Security,” Principal Investigator: Craig Elevitch, Hawai’i Homegrown Food Network, P.O. Box 5, Holualoa, HI, 96725, 808-324-4427, clevitch@hawaiihomegrown.net; $58,520.
Currently it is estimated that over 85% of the food consumed in Hawai’i is imported from the U.S. mainland and other overseas sources. The remaining 15% of food grown locally is almost completely dependent upon imports of fertilizer, chemicals and fuel for its production and distribution. Despite Hawai’i’s geographic isolation and high dependence on imports, its environment makes it especially well-suited for year-round food production. This project restores concepts of sustainable, perennial food-producing landscapes to address food security issues in Hawai’i. It will produce a manual on trees, crops, value-added processing, water conservation, soil fertility and alternatives to toxic herbicides. The manual will form the core curriculum for five workshops to be presented throughout the Hawaiian Islands. In addition, the project will publish a marketing/information kit for landscapers and government agencies to use in promoting appropriate perennial food plants.
Producer Grant: FW11-032, “Goat Meat is Great!,” Principal Investigator: Evelyn Simon, P.O. Box 651, Hagerman, ID, 83332, 208-837-6523, simon_boers@q.com; Technical Advisor: Polly Huggins, Good River RC&D, 208-934-4149, polly.huggins@id.usda.gov; $7,799.
This project seeks to grow local awareness and enthusiasm for goat meat, especially grass-fed goat meat. Meat goats are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. livestock industry. Yet most Westerners lack experience dining on delicious goat meat. In this small rural community, establishing a business selling a new product can be a challenge. The principal investigator will hold a Farm Day Open House where visitors will learn how delicious goat meat tastes. Chefs will receive a sample of frozen, packaged goat meat to take with them. Educational and marketing materials will be shared, and topics such as grass-fed meat and marketing strategies will be discussed. Several marketing events will be attended to promote grass-fed goat meat and share goat meat samples. This project can enhance the quality of life of farmers and ranchers, helping to ensure the viability of rural communities.
Research and Education Grant: SW11-122, “Incorporating Cover Crops and Green Manure in High-Desert Organic and Conventional Farming Systems,” Principal Investigator: Lauren Hunter, University of Idaho, 302 First Avenue South, Hailey, ID, 83333, 208-788-5585, lhunter@uidaho.edu; Cooperators: Jerry Bashaw, Tim Bennett, Fred Brossy, Don Morishita, Christi Falen, Glenn Shewmaker, Amber Moore, Wilson Gray; $47,628.
Although cover crop research in the west exists, green manure applications are not widely adopted among producers. This research and outreach project will help develop initial Best Management Practices for cover crops best suited for green manures in both conventional and organic high-desert farming systems. Both conventional and organic growers in southern Idaho express interest in finding affordable soil additives to replace or reduce commercial fertilizer use. In addition, managing weeds is a current issue facing Idaho organic producers. This project will evaluate the economic benefits associated with green manure for soil fertility and weed control and provide well-needed outreach to growers in the local and regional area. The results from three on-farm research trials will be incorporated into the Idaho Cover Crop Calculator and its website for measuring nitrogen (N) additions with cover crops grown at higher elevations.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-019, “Forage and Pasture Educational Program for Professionals in the Northwest,” Principal Investigator: Glenn Shewmaker, University of Idaho, Twin Falls R&E Center, P.O. Box 1827, Twin Falls, ID, 83303, 208-736-3608, gshew@uidaho.edu; $93,808.
Vast acreages of pasture or grazing lands exist in the Northwest and pasture management practices are generally poor to marginal in the region. This project expands upon a program developed five years ago and will improve the knowledge and skills of professionals in sustainable livestock and forage production systems. There is an immediate opportunity to provide education and training in support of improved pasture and grazing management in Montana, Washington, Colorado, Wyoming and Alaska using the products developed in the previous project (Western SARE EW05-12). Trained ag professionals will then extend the knowledge to pasture operators through local workshops, tours and farm visits. Four to five workshops will be presented and the Pasture and Grazing Management in the Northwest book will be distributed. A mentoring or support system for educators and graziers will be developed through the use of a listserve, newsletter and/or other appropriate communication technology.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-001, “Training in Marine Ornamental Farming for Extension Professionals in Micronesia,” Principal Investigator: Simon Ellis, Marine and Environmental Research Institute of Pohnpei, P.O. Box 1005, Pohnpei, FM, 96941, 691-320-7948, microellis@gmail.com; $51,050.
One of the most successful aquaculture enterprises in the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands to date has been farming of ornamental invertebrates for supplying home aquariums. Giant clams, hard and soft corals, ornamental sponges, zooanthids and corallimorphs are all cultured using simple techniques for live export via air freight. Importantly, these methods of farming are considered highly sustainable with low environmental impact, and the farming has been identified as a means of income generation and poverty alleviation for rural communities. This project will provide ag professionals a week-long training, workshops and attendance at a conference.
Producer Grant: FW11-024, “Organic Control of Perennial Weeds With Vinegar and Biologicals,” Principal Investigator: Jess Alger, 7617 Elevator Road, Stanford, MT, 59479, 406-566-2483, jessalg@gmail.com; Technical Advisors: Rick Caquelin, NRCS, 406-566-2311, rick.caquelin@mt.usda.gov, Casey Bailey, Ag Producer, 406-240-2389, caseybail@gmail.com; $20,790.
This project will investigate organic methods of controlling perennial range and cropland weeds using spray applications of vinegar and by releasing beneficial biological organisms (weevils, mites, and beetles). White top, Field bindweed, Canada thistle and Knapweed are all difficult to eradicate, and this project will look at different methods of control. Dealing with weeds is very costly and time consuming. The goal is to look for a combined solution to control the non-native weeds with the least impact to the ecosystem. Cleaner fields and pastures, a sense of accomplishment, sound alternatives to toxic chemical controls, hay, grain, and seeds free of noxious weeds and ultimately less time spent on weeding are anticipated benefits. Results from the project will be provided at on-farm field days and on four websites.
Professional + Producer Grant: OW11-326, “Developing Community Based Oilseed Industry in Montana,” Principal Investigator: Nestor Soriano, Montana State University, 300 13th St. W, Havre, MT, 59501, 406-265-3717, nestor.soriano@msun.edu; Producer Cooperator: Roger Benjamin, 406-734-5426, rg.ln.benjmn@gmail.com, $49,841.
Despite the large growth in Montana's biodiesel use, there remains only one commercial biodiesel producer in the entire state, accompanied with a few other backyard producers. The relatively higher cost of biodiesel in Montana is primarily attributed to feedstock cost and availability, transportation, lack of market, public acceptance and lack of farmer's technical know-how on oilseed pressing and biodiesel production. This project aims at developing a closed loop, community-based oilseed industry to promote the local production and consumption of biodiesel in Montana. This will be accomplished through the integration of culinary oil, biodiesel, oilseed meal and possibly glycerin industries.
The Bio-Energy Center is partnering with six local producers in Montana to demonstrate community-based oilseed industry for food and fuel production. This project will model a community-based oilseed pressing and biodiesel facilities owned by producers themselves through a cooperative or other forms for co-ownership schemes. Outreach includes farm and energy tours, demonstration projects, presentations, a website and pamphlets.
Research and Education Grant: SW11-086, “Degree Day Modeling and Economic Considerations of Insects and Weeds in Sheep Grazed Alfalfa, Grain, and Range Production Systems,” Principal Investigator: Hayes Goosey, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 406-994-2012, hgoosey@montana.edu; Cooperators: John Baucus, Nina Baucus, Bob Lehfeldt, Les Thomason, Kevin O’Neill, Fabian Menalled, Gregory Johnson, Rodney Kott, Dennis Cash, Duane Griffith, Dan Durham, John Helle; $206,700.
This project focuses on annual and perennial forage crop production, dual-purpose crop production and developing integrated sheep grazing systems. It is aimed at increasing the sustainability of both livestock and crop production by expanding a previously developed degree-day based grazing model to two additional pests of alfalfa production and further exploring some of the complex reciprocal interactions between crops, weeds and arthropods. This grazing system represents a new paradigm in IPM by using strategic sheep grazing to prevent high pest insect populations before the growing season. In addition, the team will investigate the influence strategic grazing has on ecosystem services provided by beneficial arthropods, such as carabid beetles. The program targets youth, college students, producers and agriculture professionals through a cooperative program with a local K-12 public school, by developing a ‘livestock in sustainable systems’ college course and through the use of existing extension services.
Research and Education Grant: SW11-099, “Using Cover Crop Mixtures to Improve Soil Health in Low Rainfall Areas of the Northern Plains,” Principal Investigator: Perry Miller, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 406-994-5431, pmiller@montana.edu; Cooperators: Paul Kronebusch, Bonnie Kronebusch, Cathy Zabinski, Jane Holzer, Clain Jones, Susan Tallman, Carl Vandermolen, Dori Vandermolen, Robert Moog, Herb Oehlke, Dan Buerkle, Jay Norton; $354,405.
Summer fallow has been used in dryland cropping systems to store water for subsequent crops, but the practice degrades soil quality. This research tests the effects of a cover crop mixture, planted in the spring and terminated in June, on crop yield, soil quality and water availability. The growth of single functional group cover crops with mixtures of up to eight species including four plant functional groups will be compared. Functional groups will be selected that address soil quality issues specific to farming in the northern Great Plains. If results warrant it, there is the potential for adoption of NRCS-sponsored soil conservation incentives requiring a minimum number of functional groups be present within a CCM seed mix. Outreach efforts include field days, workshops with presentations by farmers and researchers, documents, radio, streaming video and grain grower newsletters.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-012, “Wildlife Damage Control for Traditional and Organic Farmers – Tools for Trainers,” Principal Investigator: James E. Knight, Montana State University Extension, 215 Animal Bioscience Bldg., Bozeman, MT, 59717, 406-994-5579, jknight@montana.edu; $96,053.
Most farmers have challenges related to crop damage due to wildlife pests. A need has been identified for alternative pest control appropriate for traditional and organic farmers. Like the farmers themselves, Extension and NRCS personnel lack information on organic control of wildlife pests. The same methods and techniques that could be used by organic farmers will provide relief for traditional farmers as well. Ag professionals in Montana and Idaho will be invited to trainings that include on-site demonstration of techniques used on organic farms. There will be one face-to-face workshop in each state and web-based trainings will be offered to all Extension and NRCS personnel in the western states. Videos, podcasts, DVDs, a handbook and fact sheets will be developed. Outreach will include newspaper articles and eXtension.
Producer Grant: FW11-011, “Great Basin Fresh Market Tomato Trial,” Principal Investigator: Richard Lattin, 1955 McLean Road, Fallon, NV, 775-867-3750, mail@lattinfarms.com; Technical Advisors: Jay Davidson, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, 775-423-5121, davison@unce.unr.edu, Bill Mewaldt, Ag Producer, 775-867-3469, bmewaldt@hotmail.com; $9,205.
Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV) historically has had a devastating effect on row crop farming in the Lahontan Valley, Nevada. The purpose of this project is to test two hypotheses: 1) Tomatoes grown under high tunnels reduce the incidence of BCTV in organic fresh market tomatoes, 2) Use of locally-developed BCTV resistant seeds reduces the incidence of BCTV in high tunnel and field grown organic fresh market tomatoes. Trials will be conducted in open fields and under high tunnels, utilizing tests of commercially available varieties known to be susceptible and the resistant locally-developed varieties. The results of the trial will assist local, organic, fresh market tomato producers in selecting tomato varieties and production techniques that result in economic and environmentally sustainable farming practices. The primary educational information produced will be a peer-reviewed fact sheet that will be available on the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension website, all local Cooperative Extension offices and Mr. Rick Lattin’s farm. A power point presentation on the project will be produced and available on the Lattin Farms and NevadaGrown websites.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-006, “People of the Land II: Sustaining Agriculture on American Indian Lands in the Four-Corners Region,” Principal Investigator: Staci Emm, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, P.O. Box 810, Hawthorne, NV, 89415, 775-945-3444, emms@unce.unr.edu; $71,057.
This project addresses the educational needs of agricultural and natural resource professionals working with Hopi and Navaho agricultural producers on land and water policies and issues. While almost every reservation works with USDA agricultural and natural resource professionals, most outreach programs are not tailored to the special challenges facing American Indian agricultural professionals. This project will increase the knowledge and skills of USDA and other agricultural and natural resource professionals regarding Indian land tenure, water rights and economic environment relevant to developing sustainable agricultural operations in reservation environments and will increase the ability of agricultural professionals to develop effective outreach plans to better fit the needs of a particular reservation environment and individual Indian agricultural producer. It will produce a professional development curriculum for agriculture professionals. Partnerships will also be created between the principal investigators, collaborators, American Indian agricultural producers involved in agriculture and USDA to get more sustainable agriculture practices on reservation lands.
Producer Grant: FW11-005, “Pollinator Forage Development,” Principal Investigator: Les Crowder, P.O. Box 444, Dixon, NM, 87527, 505-587-2065, fortheloveofbees@kitcarson.net; Technical Advisor: Joran Viers, New Mexico State University, 505-243-1386, jviers@ad.nmsu.edu; $15,000
Honeybees and other pollinator species are under increasing pressure from chemical pollutants, shrinking habitats and erratic weather patterns. There is a clear need to develop conservation techniques to preserve their continued presence in our agricultural and wildland areas. This project will develop proactive conservation methods which can be implemented in the near future to help pollinators stay healthy. The project’s goal is to begin the process of identifying forage species which provide food and habitat for pollinators while serving as windbreaks, livestock forage and nitrogen-fixing cover crops. This will enable beekeepers and interested agricultural landowners with the knowledge to develop their lands in support of these diminishing populations. The list of forage species would serve as a broad resource for master gardeners, land and home owners, as well as farmers and ranchers who would like to help these at-risk populations. On-site classes, a website and a booklet will be developed.
Producer Grant: FW11-018, “Cotton Gin By-Products/Dairy Manure Composting for Desert Farming,” Principal Investigator: Robert Woody, 671 Tumbleweed Road, Chaparral, NM, 88081, 915-203-2966, rwoody3333@aol.com; Technical Advisor: Robert Flynn, New Mexico State University, 575-748-1228, rflynn@nmsu.edu; $13,336.
This project proposes composting dairy manure and cotton gin by-product (CGB). Manure and CGB will be transported to a pistachio, bermuda pasture and sheep farm in Chaparral, NM. The manure and CGB will be mixed (3:2) and aerated, the mixture watered and the material managed to produce a final compost. The compost will be applied at 6 tons/acre and 12 tons/acre to bermuda pasture after composting is completed. Bermuda leaf nutrient analyses will be performed on the two treatment groups and the untreated group. Attention will be paid to prevent nitrogen immobilization. Factsheets and a poster will be prepared and presented to local groups, the NM State Western SARE Conference and the NM Solid Waste Bureau biennial Compost Certification Workshop.
Producer Grant: FW11-021, “Trials and Informing Regional Farmers about Organic Weed Control Methods - Crimping an Over-Wintered Cover Crop into an 'In-Place Mulch’,” Principal Investigator: Dale Rhoads, P.O. Box 1638, Espanola, NM, 87532, 505-231-5954, dr.rhoads@ymail.com; Technical Advisor: Steve Guldan, New Mexico State University, 505-852-4241, sguldan@nmsu.edu; $13,163.
These trials are unique in terms of introducing several new important weed management techniques and skills to regional farmers. Effective and sustainable weed control strategies are some of the most critical areas of concern for the economic viability and sustainability of local organic vegetable production. This project is aimed at testing, measuring and reporting, and placing information in the hands of regional market growers on seven different techniques of managing weeds (and fertility) in longer season larger vegetable plants. The data to be collected are: water use per treatment area, harvest size, effectiveness of weed control treatments, overall weed control labor time/costs including installation of weed control techniques and soil fertility tested monthly. The outreach of these trials will place information in farmer's hands in 14 counties.
Producer Grant: FW11-027, “Testing Traditional Methods of Pest Mitigation,” Principal Investigator: Joseph Alfaro, 1908 Lena Drive SW, Albuquerque, NM, 87105, 505-948-7178, eljoseph.alfaro@gmail.com; Technical Advisor: John Garlisch, New Mexico State University, 505-243-1545, garlisch@nmsu.edu; $29,434.
Producers face the challenge of satisfying consumer demand for locally-grown, high-quality food in a manner that is both sustainable and profitable. The purpose of this project is to research traditional, chemical-free methods of pest control. New Mexico is uniquely suited for this type of research, as traditional agriculture has been practiced here for centuries. The goal is to identify and document local ways to conduct pest control as it has been practiced in New Mexico for centuries. To identify local ways to control pests, interviews will first be conducted with local farmers and local Native populations. Research to document these methods will also be done. These methods will then be evaluated by implementing them across multiple grow sites operated by three local farmers. The adoption of local, traditional practices for pest control could enable producers to deliver more products in a cost effective manner by both reducing labor inputs and mitigating losses. A video, information kit and brochures will be produced.
Producer Grant: FW11-030, “Pepper (Capsicum annum) Cultivation, Conservation, and Soil Ecology in Low-Input and Certified Organic Agricultural Systems,” Principal Investigator: Loretta Sandoval, P.O. Box 102, Alcalde, NM, 87511, 505-579-9647, redasandoval@yahoo.com; Technical Advisor: Steve Guldan, New Mexico State University, 505-852-4241, sguldan@nmsu.edu; $19,585.
Landrace peppers and other traditional crops have been part of long-term sustainable agricultural systems in New Mexico, and these seed collections are at risk of extinction. This project’s research focus is the conservation and sustainability of traditional food crops and on growing landrace varieties using both certified organic and low input agricultural field areas. Trials will be performed to determine if sustainable inputs (cover crops, rotation, low input agricultural practices) result in differences in plant yield, seed quality and vigor. Research plots also will be used as experiential teaching tools in field days for area farmers and to encourage growing and conservation of these seed banks regionally. Information from the project will be shared with local and regional producers to potentially improve their production practices.
Producer Grant: FW11-043, “Assessment of the Economic Viability of High-Value Greenhouse Production,” Principal Investigator: Margaret Campos, P.O. Box 115, Embudo, NM, 505-852-2203, algonativo@cybermesa.com; Technical Advisor: Tony Valdez, New Mexico State University, 505-685-4523, tonvalde@nmsu.edu; $14,743.
New Mexico has the second highest food insecurity in the nation, and its second largest industry is agriculture. Even with the advent of recent marketing distribution channels such as CSAs, farmers’ markets and cooperative stores, the great majority of agricultural production in NM is still sold though the wholesale commodity markets, processed elsewhere and feeds the large-scale agriculture model, doing little for the local agricultural economy. This project will provide the opportunity to evaluate the feasibility of extended production and improved product mix to meet consumer demand. The goal is to create an economic model that can be replicated to support the farming community in the northern New Mexico region. Outreach efforts include a demonstration area, field day, website and advertisements.
Producer Grant: FW11-002, “Mitigating Production and Environmental Costs in Shrimp Farming with the Use of Bio-floc Production Technology,” Principal Investigator: Augustine Maratita, P.O. Box 501250, Saipan, N. Mariana Islands, 96950, 670-286-5463, gusmaratita@yahoo.com; Technical Advisor: Michael Ogo, NMC-CREES, 670-234-5498, michaelo@nmcnet.edu; $15,000.
Production of marine shrimp is an ideal aquaculture enterprise in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) because of the high farm gate price and the potential for farmers to realize a profit in their operation. Recent changes, however, such as the price increase of energy and imported feed, have already started to eat into profits so that shrimp farming in the CNMI may no longer be feasible and sustainable. Producing marine shrimp using the Bio-floc system may make it possible for shrimp farmers in the CNMI to once again turn a profit in their farms and sustain their enterprise. Bio-floc shrimp production involves reducing the need for external mechanical filtration which contributes to high energy costs and utilizes beneficial bacteria that not only break down organic matter in the tank but also serve as a source of nutrition, thus reducing feed cost. Field days, workshops and fact sheets will result from the project.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-015, “Creating Sustainable Agriculture Farmer-to-Farmer Networks Through Professional Trainings and an Agricultural Educator Toolkit,” Principal Investigator: Melissa Matthewson, Oregon State University Extension, 569 Hanley Road, Central Point, OR, 97502, 541-776-7371 x208, melissa.matthewson@oregonstate.edu; $99,590.
There has been an increase in small farmers in the western states over the past few years, many of whom are interested in developing sustainable operations. Agricultural professionals must meet this new trend by facilitating or creating projects that directly educate and assist these farmers. One important outreach and educational tool that can be used to facilitate sustainable agriculture projects is the creation of farmer-to-farmer networks or community of practices, which approach learning as social participation. This project aims to build on the success of two women farmer networks in Oregon. The project will train 40 ag professionals (10 in four locations) on how to develop successful farmer networks. In addition, the PI will consult with leaders of pilot women farmer networks in Montana, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. There will be trainings, workshops, consulting meetings and an on-line and paper toolkit.
Professional Development Program Grant: EW11-021, “The Soil Quality Network,” Principal Investigator: Teresa Matteson, Benton Soil and Water Conservation District, 456 SW Monroe Ave., Corvallis, OR, 97333, 541-753-7208, tmatteson@bentonswcd.org; $56,992.
While soil quality is the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, degradation of soil quality is wide-spread, compounds the need for expensive and inefficient agricultural production inputs and leads to negative environmental impacts. Farmers and ag professionals have indicated to the Benton SWCD a strong need for soil quality tools and programs to support their work. To address this need, the PI is launching a regional Soil Quality Network. The Network will include a database to rate soil samples, document participation, monitor management changes and support future demonstration projects and research; two workshops to train ag professionals in soil quality assessment, education program development and strategies to support farmers; a website; and evaluations and analysis throughout the project.
Producer Grant: FW11-048, “Waste to Worms to Eggs: Converting Institutional Food Waste into Livestock Feed Using Intensive Vermiculture Practice,” Principal Investigator: Bryan Hardina, 16550 177th Ave. SE, Monroe, WA, 360-794-2754, bryan.hardina@doc.wa.gov; Technical Advisor: Peter Stitt, Edmonds Community College, 425-231-2804, bgo1983@hotmail.com; $15,000.
The purpose of this project is to demonstrate that food waste can be converted into high protein feed for chickens and organic fertilizer through intensive vermiculture practices. This project will convert food waste from the 780 bed Washington State Reformatory Unit of the Monroe Correctional Complex in Monroe, Washington. In the first phase, a series of trails will be conducted to determine best practices for maximizing work production. During the second phase, several flocks of chickens will be raised. Some will be fed worms, some will be fed worms and grain and the rest will be fed grain only. The project will involve offenders, local farmers, veterinarians, a farm supply store, a farm supplier and local educators from high schools and community colleges. Due to the logistics of conducting trials within a prison facility, much of the outreach will be via electronic media, bi-monthly progress reports and distribution to networks.
Graduate Student Grant: GW11-005, “Combining Trap Cropping with Companion Planting to Maximize Control of the Crucifer Flea Beetle in Organic Mixed Vegetable Farms,” Principal Investigator: Joyce Parker, Graduate Student, 1135 NW Davis Way, Pullman, WA, 99163, 956-345-8780, jeparker@wsu.edu; Major Professor: William Snyder, Washington State University, 509-335-3724, wesnyder@wsu.edu; $8,270.
The crucifer flea beetle, Phyllotreta cruciferae, is a major pest of Brassica crops in the Pacific Northwest. Many growers rely on these crops as a major component of mixed-vegetable production, and flea beetle damage lowers marketable yields. In previous work, it was found that “trap crops,” which draw beetles out of the marketable crop, are effective in partially protecting broccoli from flea beetle damage. This project will examine companion plants intercropped with broccoli as an additional, complementary flea beetle management option. The hypothesis to be tested is that marketable companion crops planted within the protection target will further hinder flea beetles’ ability to chemically or visually locate their host plants. Thus a companion crop may provide an additional incentive for flea beetles to choose the trap crop rather than the broccoli, working synergistically to improve flea beetle control. Outreach efforts include a field day, posters and an extension website.
Professional + Producer Grant: OW11-315, “Composted Horse Manure and Stall Bedding Pilot Project,” Principal Investigator: Caitlin Price, Snohomish Conservation District, 528 91st Ave. NE, Lake Stevens, WA, 98258, 425-335-5634, caitlin@snohomishcd.org; Producer Cooperators: Mark & Karen Plumlee, 17028 Trombley Road, Snohomish, WA, 98290, 425-985-8321, missionfarrierschool@hotmail.com; $39,410.
Tens of thousands of horses in Snohomish County means a very large volume of manure, and the piles of stall waste generated from some of the larger equine facilities are phenomenal in both size and potential environmental risk. With high annual rainfall and an abundance of perennial streams, wetlands and lakes in western Washington, the potential for adverse impact to aquatic wildlife and water resources is significant. The project was developed as a way to encourage horse owners and managers to improve manure management, reduce off-farm inputs and operating expenses, and develop sustainable land management practices. This project is a collaboration between SCD and the owners of five commercial equine facilities. SCD will coordinate field trials at the five facilities with manure and bedding compost system set up at each site. Outreach activities will include demonstrations at trial sites and local fairs and trainings on successful horse manure composting. Educational materials produced will include an illustrated factsheet, a short video, a free webinar and articles in the SCD newsletter and two regional equine publications.
Research and Education Grant: SW11-072, “Selecting Management Practices and Cover Crops for Reducing Tillage, Enhancing Soil Quality, and Managing Weeds in Western WA Organic Vegetable Farms,” Principal Investigator: Douglas Collins, Washington State University, 2606 W. Pioneer, Puyallup, WA, 98137, 253-445-4658, dpcollins@wsu.edu; Cooperators: Colin Barricklow, Steve Hallstrom, Erick Haakenson, Andrew Corbin, Chris Benedict, Craig Cogger, Andy Bary; $196,626.
Organic vegetable growers in western Washington pass over their fields 10 to 20 times annually with tillage equipment. Tillage decimates large-bodied soil organisms, reduces soil carbon storage and weakens the stability of aggregates. In response to organic growers’ desire to improve soil quality through tillage reduction, while maintaining adequate weed control, this research and producer group will undertake research and extension activities matched to the unique climate, soil properties and topography of western Washington. This project will: 1) identify production methods that effectively integrate cover crops and reduced tillage technologies to improve soil quality while reducing in-season weed pressure and seed bank populations on western WA organic farms; 2) evaluate profitability and greenhouse gas impacts of reduced tillage cropping systems on these farms; 3) facilitate adoption of reduced tillage technologies and ideas to a wide audience and identify tools and strategies most effective at encouraging behavior change.
Graduate Student Grant: GW11-007, “Impacts of Age on Residual Feed Intake and Its Effect on Reproductive Parameters and Profitability in Ewes,” Principal Investigator: Rebecca Cockrum, Graduate Student, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82071, 314-856-5889, rcockrum@uwyo.edu; Major Professor: Kristi Cammack, University of Wyoming, 307-766-6530, kcammack@uwyo.edu; $24,990.
Due to the limited research available, the sheep industry has yet to adopt residual feed intake (RFI) as a measure of feed efficiency as seen in the swine and poultry industries. To be an appropriate measure of feed efficiency for genetic selection, RFI must not be unfavorably correlated with carcass merit, growth traits or reproductive efficiency. Initial research has implicated that age may affect RFI ranking, and that reproduction may be negatively affected. Additionally, no economic data is currently available for sheep producers to demonstrate the potential economic impact of selecting for improved RFI. Therefore, this project aims to determine how puberty affects RFI ranking; estimate heritability of RFI in sheep and determine the impact of selecting for low RFI (more efficient) on reproductive efficiency; and investigate the economic impacts of RFI selection on the sheep industry. Strong partnerships with producers will be built for effective outreach.
