It's time for a blogging update about the farm. We'll try and take some pictures and put them out here soon. But, it always seems to fall down the "to do" list - and there you are.
So, for now - let us entertain you with some short stories or news of the farm:
Shocking!
We've had some upheaval on the farm as we contracted work to get electricity into two of our outbuilding that did not have it before. It can be pretty difficult when you have to adjust all of your activities around multiple pieces of equipment and people with different agendas on the farm. We keep telling us it will be worth it in the end. It will, won't it?
Roughing It
Farming season is truly in full swing when our hands are rough enough to exfoliate one's face. And, since I have a tendency to rub my jaw when I'm contemplating a problem on the farm... Well, let's just say if part of my face looks clean shaven, it may not be because I have shaved....
Tiiiiimberrrrrrrrrrrr
Yes, the large Silver Maple that was growing out of the garage foundation was taken down late last year. Yes, we are still trying to clean it up. Yes, we are getting tired of working on it. Yes, it does help build muscles. Yes, we're approaching completion.
I said "Porches," not "Porsches!"
Our back porch has been an Achilles heal for this house ever since we moved here. The roof leaked for some time... You don't need the laundry list. However, Tammy's parents visited and put in some time working on making it less, well, you know. It's good to see some progress.
I'd rather HAVE gas than BUY gas
Ok. We understand if people want to complain about how much it costs to fill up their vehicles. However, consider this - when we fill up our truck, we usually fill up the gas cans that we use for the tractors and tillers on the farm. We usually don't let the truck run much below the halfway point on the gauge. Yet, we find ourselves paying three digits on the fill each time. If *you* are paying $100 or more for a fill and you don't need that gas guzzler... The good news - we are using less gas than we did last year at this time thanks to Durnik, the Ford 8n/9n tractor.
That's all my brain can do for a day. Sad, isn't it? We'll do better next time!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
Bread for the World (Part 2)
There is no doubt that there are many "food insecure" people in the world. And, more than you think in your home town. So what's to be done about it?
A few jumbled thoughts from this farmer:
1. Encourage more small farms growing foods for local consumption
Farms just like ours are exactly the sort of small business that people with less money could potentially get started. Granted, we have some advantages - we were able to buy a farmstead and we both have strong education backgrounds. The latter training helps us to climb the learning curves a bit faster. But, small, diverse farms can be labor intensive businesses. Labor intensive businesses are the sort that employ more people - often people who have limits on their employment options for whatever reason. And, often people who work on small, food producing farms get the added benefit of fresh produce as part of the compensation package.
And - while we're at it - let's work on removing the stigma that physical labor is somehow unrewarding, unskilled and something to avoid at all costs.
2. Make land available to farms of this type
Iowa is a good example. Approximately 5 years ago, land near us sold for approximately $3500 an acre. I just read an ad where sealed auction bids were to start at $7500 an acre for comparable farmland in the region. Absentee land ownership is increasing as people seek to make land an investment vehicle. Granted, some of these folks treat the land well - but many (probably most) do not. A large percentage of the land is rented out - to farms that grow corn/soybeans with little to no attention given to how the land is farmed.
As long as we continue to see land and commodity crops as investment vehicles, we will see land costs continue to increase. A huge portion of the land in Iowa is owned by people who are retirement age or older. There should be incentive for them to sell their farms to someone who WANTS to farm - and do it well. Instead, we seem intent on locking up a key resource so it can't help to keep our population fed.
3. Level the farming 'playing field'
Before people think that I'm calling for my share of subsidies, etc etc. Let me first point out that whatever I might get now or in the future from the government for what I do will never compare to what commodity crop growers receive. It's a function of farm size and farm type.
Now, let me also say that I don't necessarily want any subsidies. What I want is to have the right to farm the way I farm. But, it is difficult to do what I do when subsidies regiment how everyone else farms. I don't want to do anything that deprives my neighbors from doing their farm work. Yet, I somehow feel that the onus is on me to always show that I'm not infringing on them. Even when the techniques and seed they use can impact me so easily.
How can we expect new farmers to enter the field when the cost of entering the fray is prohibitive? All this does is shut people out from yet another way to do what we Americans seem to believe is part of what makes this country great - the ability to pull oneself up by their 'bootstraps.'
4. Education, stupid!
I still point to the blitz to educate kids about the hazards of cigarette smoking and the success that effort had in changing our culture. A full effort to educate people about how to grow, store, prepare, present and eat good food can lead to a better fed populace.
Many food insecure people believe that they get more for their money when they buy a bag of potato chips than if they buy a head of broccoli. Part of the issue is that the skill of preparing foods and making the most of what is in season has been lost by most of our population. So, I ask you. Why don't we have a food unit in our schools for every year of education?
5. Every food pantry should have storage capability for fresh food, etc
Our food pantries are on the front lines of the battle. Let's arm them with the tools to make this successful. Get them proper storage facilities. Get them connection to people who can teach food preparation and cooking classes. Get the connections to people who can teach canning and freezing. Get them a big pool of recipes. Connect them with gardening opportunities for those with low income. While they do not have to do all of this, I still see the food pantry as an entry point to help the food insecure.
6. Extend WIC, FMNP and school food programs to help day care, schools and assisted living facilities buy fresh and local foods.
As farmers' market vendors, we are aware of the coupons issued to give folks who qualify some funds to buy fresh food at the farmers' market. However, if a parent is already unlikely to go to a farmers' market or use fresh produce, they may not use the coupons. In the case of seniors, many of them are unable to get to the market. So - let's get the food to where many of these folks are.
I'm finding I could type on this for quite a while, but don't have the time to do so. Feel free to add on this topic!
A few jumbled thoughts from this farmer:
1. Encourage more small farms growing foods for local consumption
Farms just like ours are exactly the sort of small business that people with less money could potentially get started. Granted, we have some advantages - we were able to buy a farmstead and we both have strong education backgrounds. The latter training helps us to climb the learning curves a bit faster. But, small, diverse farms can be labor intensive businesses. Labor intensive businesses are the sort that employ more people - often people who have limits on their employment options for whatever reason. And, often people who work on small, food producing farms get the added benefit of fresh produce as part of the compensation package.
And - while we're at it - let's work on removing the stigma that physical labor is somehow unrewarding, unskilled and something to avoid at all costs.
2. Make land available to farms of this type
Iowa is a good example. Approximately 5 years ago, land near us sold for approximately $3500 an acre. I just read an ad where sealed auction bids were to start at $7500 an acre for comparable farmland in the region. Absentee land ownership is increasing as people seek to make land an investment vehicle. Granted, some of these folks treat the land well - but many (probably most) do not. A large percentage of the land is rented out - to farms that grow corn/soybeans with little to no attention given to how the land is farmed.
As long as we continue to see land and commodity crops as investment vehicles, we will see land costs continue to increase. A huge portion of the land in Iowa is owned by people who are retirement age or older. There should be incentive for them to sell their farms to someone who WANTS to farm - and do it well. Instead, we seem intent on locking up a key resource so it can't help to keep our population fed.
3. Level the farming 'playing field'
Before people think that I'm calling for my share of subsidies, etc etc. Let me first point out that whatever I might get now or in the future from the government for what I do will never compare to what commodity crop growers receive. It's a function of farm size and farm type.
Now, let me also say that I don't necessarily want any subsidies. What I want is to have the right to farm the way I farm. But, it is difficult to do what I do when subsidies regiment how everyone else farms. I don't want to do anything that deprives my neighbors from doing their farm work. Yet, I somehow feel that the onus is on me to always show that I'm not infringing on them. Even when the techniques and seed they use can impact me so easily.
How can we expect new farmers to enter the field when the cost of entering the fray is prohibitive? All this does is shut people out from yet another way to do what we Americans seem to believe is part of what makes this country great - the ability to pull oneself up by their 'bootstraps.'
4. Education, stupid!
I still point to the blitz to educate kids about the hazards of cigarette smoking and the success that effort had in changing our culture. A full effort to educate people about how to grow, store, prepare, present and eat good food can lead to a better fed populace.
Many food insecure people believe that they get more for their money when they buy a bag of potato chips than if they buy a head of broccoli. Part of the issue is that the skill of preparing foods and making the most of what is in season has been lost by most of our population. So, I ask you. Why don't we have a food unit in our schools for every year of education?
5. Every food pantry should have storage capability for fresh food, etc
Our food pantries are on the front lines of the battle. Let's arm them with the tools to make this successful. Get them proper storage facilities. Get them connection to people who can teach food preparation and cooking classes. Get the connections to people who can teach canning and freezing. Get them a big pool of recipes. Connect them with gardening opportunities for those with low income. While they do not have to do all of this, I still see the food pantry as an entry point to help the food insecure.
6. Extend WIC, FMNP and school food programs to help day care, schools and assisted living facilities buy fresh and local foods.
As farmers' market vendors, we are aware of the coupons issued to give folks who qualify some funds to buy fresh food at the farmers' market. However, if a parent is already unlikely to go to a farmers' market or use fresh produce, they may not use the coupons. In the case of seniors, many of them are unable to get to the market. So - let's get the food to where many of these folks are.
I'm finding I could type on this for quite a while, but don't have the time to do so. Feel free to add on this topic!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Ramping Up....
Here it is.... May - and the temps have gone through the roof today. Don't worry, I'm sure they'll come back down enough to make us all wonder if we were dreaming.
The farm is beginning to get into full swing and the CSA season is approaching. So, we thought it was time for a newsy, farm reportish type of post. There is much of substance here - read it all and you may learn something you wanted to learn!
CSA Signups:
We are currently at 86 members signed up for the 2011 season. Last year we had 111 signed up and we schedule for 120 slots. So, folks - we could use a little word of mouth power! Our goal is to get 14 more to reach 100. Obviously, we'd prefer to get to 120. But, that seems out of reach right now. Obviously, our deadlines on our brochures and website do not apply. We're still taking applications.
GFF and KUNI public radio:
In an effort to promote the CSA and to support public radio. Genuine Faux Farm has underwritten KUNI for a short period of time. Listen for the little blurbs that promote us and tell us if you hear them. We figure we have supported public radio with donations - so why not increase the amount and underwrite their work with our farm?
CSA Members Welcome!
To all of you who have joined us already for 2011 - Welcome! At this point, we anticipate starting deliveries the first FULL week of June. Waverly (June 7) and Cedar Falls (June 9). Things we want you to know from the outset:
1. Bring a bag(s) or box to pick up your produce.
2. Make it habit to come to the pick up location each week. If you can, give yourself a couple minutes to converse with other CSA members or your farmers. It really does increase the value of your share.
3. The first weeks start slow (though we're doing things to try to increase the early produce). It's the nature of growing things in Iowa. Just you wait until late July all the way through October!
4. If there are problems or questions - we want you to let us know. We can do nothing for you if you say nothing!
Waverly Farmers' Market:
The Waverly Farmers' Market began on Saturday and will continue on Saturdays until mid-October. It is located on the 200 block of 1st Ave SE (by the post office) in Waverly. 8:30am-11:30am
Tuesdays will begin the on the 7th of June. 3pm-6pm
Heirloom Plant Sales:
The season for our heirloom plant sales is upon us. We have a wide range of tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. We would be happy to start other plants for you if you ask. If you ask for something that we think you would do just as well to plant from seed, we will tell you that. Email us with a request, come to the Saturday markets and browse and buy - or otherwise arrange to get them. We are looking at having a date or two where we set up in Tripoli.
Want an idea as to the tomatoes we grow - check this web page on our site! Want to see our general information on varieties we grow (a work in progress) - go here.
Spring CSA:
A small, pioneering group has helped us kick off our Spring CSA expansion this year. We are hopeful that what we learn this year will provide us with the ability to expand this service to more people next season. We prefer to start these things small so we can get a feel for what it will take before we dive right in. This season, our goal was to provide six weeks of produce (generally greens). A thank you to the fine individuals who are working with us on this first trial.
Poultry:
We are raising broilers (chickens), turkeys and ducks this year. Our first batch of broilers (200 of them) are about 12 days old right now and will ready to 'go to the park' when they are 10-12 weeks old. If you want to reserve some birds, let us know by email. Give it the subject line "poultry" to help me sort.
You may also reserve ducks or turkeys at any point (same subject line). We do not take deposits on these. We have only had someone back out on us once, which encourages us to continue along these lines.
Pricing for 2011 is being reviewed. Our feed cost went up 18% and you all know what is happening to fuel prices. But, we don't want to increase our prices unless we ascertain that these are likely to stay at these higher prices.
Eggs:
The eggs shares are also under review to figure out how to make them work during the CSA season and beyond. The tracking process is not as easy as we need it to be - so we are looking at making some adjustments to make it easier for all of us. Those of you who requested egg shares for the CSA season - please be patient. We have not forgotten you. And, if you have paid for eggs on contract, your contract will be fulfilled. We just need to revamp our tracking so it works throughout the season - rather than falling down each time our situation changes with Tammy going back to school, etc etc.
Festival Dates:
Our festival dates are set! We still need to update the web page with these - but hope to do so yet tonight.
Iris Festival: May 30 (our traditional Memorial Day event)
Summer Fest: August 27
GF7: October 2
If you with to know more - check our web page and use these dates if they differ when you visit it!
Tom Sawyer Days:
Tom Sawyer Days are volunteer work days that are open to anyone who might like to experience working on the farm. You need not be a CSA member to join us on these days. BUT - we do like to know who is coming so we can plan for the event! We have moved our Tom Sawyer Days around so they do not land on the same day of the week.
Our TSD's are: May 14, June 11, July 15, August 13, September 11 and October 16.
NOTE: the first one is THIS SATURDAY! Anyone up for it? Give us a note.
Why should you attend a festival or a work day?
It's not about us wanting to get your "free" labor. It's not about popularity nor is it about gaining sympathy for the hard work we have to do. It's about *connecting you to your food and how it is grown*. We believe too many people are disconnected from the production of something each of us needs every single day. Let's do something about that together.
The farm is beginning to get into full swing and the CSA season is approaching. So, we thought it was time for a newsy, farm reportish type of post. There is much of substance here - read it all and you may learn something you wanted to learn!
CSA Signups:
We are currently at 86 members signed up for the 2011 season. Last year we had 111 signed up and we schedule for 120 slots. So, folks - we could use a little word of mouth power! Our goal is to get 14 more to reach 100. Obviously, we'd prefer to get to 120. But, that seems out of reach right now. Obviously, our deadlines on our brochures and website do not apply. We're still taking applications.
GFF and KUNI public radio:
In an effort to promote the CSA and to support public radio. Genuine Faux Farm has underwritten KUNI for a short period of time. Listen for the little blurbs that promote us and tell us if you hear them. We figure we have supported public radio with donations - so why not increase the amount and underwrite their work with our farm?
CSA Members Welcome!
To all of you who have joined us already for 2011 - Welcome! At this point, we anticipate starting deliveries the first FULL week of June. Waverly (June 7) and Cedar Falls (June 9). Things we want you to know from the outset:
1. Bring a bag(s) or box to pick up your produce.
2. Make it habit to come to the pick up location each week. If you can, give yourself a couple minutes to converse with other CSA members or your farmers. It really does increase the value of your share.
3. The first weeks start slow (though we're doing things to try to increase the early produce). It's the nature of growing things in Iowa. Just you wait until late July all the way through October!
4. If there are problems or questions - we want you to let us know. We can do nothing for you if you say nothing!
Waverly Farmers' Market:
The Waverly Farmers' Market began on Saturday and will continue on Saturdays until mid-October. It is located on the 200 block of 1st Ave SE (by the post office) in Waverly. 8:30am-11:30am
Tuesdays will begin the on the 7th of June. 3pm-6pm
Heirloom Plant Sales:
The season for our heirloom plant sales is upon us. We have a wide range of tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. We would be happy to start other plants for you if you ask. If you ask for something that we think you would do just as well to plant from seed, we will tell you that. Email us with a request, come to the Saturday markets and browse and buy - or otherwise arrange to get them. We are looking at having a date or two where we set up in Tripoli.
Want an idea as to the tomatoes we grow - check this web page on our site! Want to see our general information on varieties we grow (a work in progress) - go here.
Spring CSA:
A small, pioneering group has helped us kick off our Spring CSA expansion this year. We are hopeful that what we learn this year will provide us with the ability to expand this service to more people next season. We prefer to start these things small so we can get a feel for what it will take before we dive right in. This season, our goal was to provide six weeks of produce (generally greens). A thank you to the fine individuals who are working with us on this first trial.
Poultry:
We are raising broilers (chickens), turkeys and ducks this year. Our first batch of broilers (200 of them) are about 12 days old right now and will ready to 'go to the park' when they are 10-12 weeks old. If you want to reserve some birds, let us know by email. Give it the subject line "poultry" to help me sort.
You may also reserve ducks or turkeys at any point (same subject line). We do not take deposits on these. We have only had someone back out on us once, which encourages us to continue along these lines.
Pricing for 2011 is being reviewed. Our feed cost went up 18% and you all know what is happening to fuel prices. But, we don't want to increase our prices unless we ascertain that these are likely to stay at these higher prices.
Eggs:
The eggs shares are also under review to figure out how to make them work during the CSA season and beyond. The tracking process is not as easy as we need it to be - so we are looking at making some adjustments to make it easier for all of us. Those of you who requested egg shares for the CSA season - please be patient. We have not forgotten you. And, if you have paid for eggs on contract, your contract will be fulfilled. We just need to revamp our tracking so it works throughout the season - rather than falling down each time our situation changes with Tammy going back to school, etc etc.
Festival Dates:
Our festival dates are set! We still need to update the web page with these - but hope to do so yet tonight.
Iris Festival: May 30 (our traditional Memorial Day event)
Summer Fest: August 27
GF7: October 2
If you with to know more - check our web page and use these dates if they differ when you visit it!
Tom Sawyer Days:
Tom Sawyer Days are volunteer work days that are open to anyone who might like to experience working on the farm. You need not be a CSA member to join us on these days. BUT - we do like to know who is coming so we can plan for the event! We have moved our Tom Sawyer Days around so they do not land on the same day of the week.
Our TSD's are: May 14, June 11, July 15, August 13, September 11 and October 16.
NOTE: the first one is THIS SATURDAY! Anyone up for it? Give us a note.
Why should you attend a festival or a work day?
It's not about us wanting to get your "free" labor. It's not about popularity nor is it about gaining sympathy for the hard work we have to do. It's about *connecting you to your food and how it is grown*. We believe too many people are disconnected from the production of something each of us needs every single day. Let's do something about that together.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Music to Work By
It's probably no secret - since we post it here - that Rob likes his music. And he's been enjoying some pretty good stuff as he works lately.
Some CD's getting some serious play time of late:
- the violet burning - The Story of Our Lives
- Switchfoot - Oh! Gravity.
- Over the Rhine - Ohio
- Midnight Oil - Capricornia
- Lost Dogs - Old Angel
- Innocence Mission - Umbrella
- the Choir - Burning Like the Midnight Sun
- the Choir - Chase the Kangaroo
- the Call - Reconciled (RIP Michael Been)
- Anberlin - Dark is the Way, Light is a Place
wait - that's only 10
- Undercover - Forum
there - this list goes to 11.
Now, here's hoping the fact that the buttons on my iPod acting flaky isn't a forerunner to the death of said machine....
Some CD's getting some serious play time of late:
- the violet burning - The Story of Our Lives
- Switchfoot - Oh! Gravity.
- Over the Rhine - Ohio
- Midnight Oil - Capricornia
- Lost Dogs - Old Angel
- Innocence Mission - Umbrella
- the Choir - Burning Like the Midnight Sun
- the Choir - Chase the Kangaroo
- the Call - Reconciled (RIP Michael Been)
- Anberlin - Dark is the Way, Light is a Place
wait - that's only 10
- Undercover - Forum
there - this list goes to 11.
Now, here's hoping the fact that the buttons on my iPod acting flaky isn't a forerunner to the death of said machine....
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Black and Blue Division
It must be Spring at the Genuine Faux Farm. We can tell because the number of bruises, cuts, sore muscles and joints and other various dings are getting harder to track. The conversations Tammy and I have sometimes might be disconcerting, confusing or amusing depending on how you're feeling at the moment.
"Where'd you get *that* bruise?"
"Which bruise?"
"*THAT* one."
"Oh, I don't know. I think that's where I ran into the tailgate on the truck... no, wait.. that was *this* bruise..."
"It looks painful."
"I suppose, but it only hurts if you bump it into the tailgate on the truck..."
Or maybe we come to wrong conclusions such as this one:
Rob earlier in the evening. "You know, I was really dreading how I would feel at the end of the week. I'm not as sore as I thought I would be."
Rob later in the evening (after sitting down for dinner). "Uh oh. I think I'm really dreading how I'll feel in the morning."
And, yet another disturbing conversation:
Tammy, digging into the cabinet in the bathroom: "Hm, we don't have any bigger bandaids. We just have a bunch of these little bandaids."
Rob: "Pffft. If we had a cut the size of those little things we wouldn't bother with a bandaid. Maybe we should donate them to the daycare."
Other things we notice (with maybe some exaggeration for effect) this time of year.
- Our hands are so rough and dry if we touch a lotion bottle our hands wick all of the lotion out of the bottle without having to open it.
- The amount of dust that gets blown into our ears is enough to start a small patch of arugula.
- We walked so much this weekend that the soles of our shoes lost a quarter inch of thickness. And we've noticed that it *IS* uphill both ways (to and from wherever we're going)
- Our blisters have callouses. Or is that the other way around?
No actual farmers were hurt in the writing of this post - just the faux ones.
"Where'd you get *that* bruise?"
"Which bruise?"
"*THAT* one."
"Oh, I don't know. I think that's where I ran into the tailgate on the truck... no, wait.. that was *this* bruise..."
"It looks painful."
"I suppose, but it only hurts if you bump it into the tailgate on the truck..."
Or maybe we come to wrong conclusions such as this one:
Rob earlier in the evening. "You know, I was really dreading how I would feel at the end of the week. I'm not as sore as I thought I would be."
Rob later in the evening (after sitting down for dinner). "Uh oh. I think I'm really dreading how I'll feel in the morning."
And, yet another disturbing conversation:
Tammy, digging into the cabinet in the bathroom: "Hm, we don't have any bigger bandaids. We just have a bunch of these little bandaids."
Rob: "Pffft. If we had a cut the size of those little things we wouldn't bother with a bandaid. Maybe we should donate them to the daycare."
Other things we notice (with maybe some exaggeration for effect) this time of year.
- Our hands are so rough and dry if we touch a lotion bottle our hands wick all of the lotion out of the bottle without having to open it.
- The amount of dust that gets blown into our ears is enough to start a small patch of arugula.
- We walked so much this weekend that the soles of our shoes lost a quarter inch of thickness. And we've noticed that it *IS* uphill both ways (to and from wherever we're going)
- Our blisters have callouses. Or is that the other way around?
No actual farmers were hurt in the writing of this post - just the faux ones.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Local Schmocal
Perhaps you're all tired of being preached at. Or maybe, an abstract statement about how supporting local business will improve the local economy isn't enough. So - here's what we're going to do. Here is an exercise to show you how THIS local business supports the local economy simply because YOU support it by purchasing its product.
As a local business, we are more aware of other persons trying to make their own small businesses be successful. Thus, we are often on the lookout for these options when we are in the market for something in particular.
Examples of expenses our farm has distributed to local businesses:
- printing (The Printery in Waverly)
- liability insurance (Pfile Insurance in Tripoli)
- poultry feed (Frantzen Farms near New Hampton)
- plant starting medium and supplies (Beautiful Land in West Branch)
- seeds (many from Seed Savers in Decorah)
- fruit bearing plants (K and K Gardens in Hawkeye)
- granary roofing (Gingerich Construction in Hazelton)
- electrical work (John Axon in Tripoli)
- shoes (Thompson Shoes in Waverly)
- shoe repair (Deke's Shoe Repair in Waverly)
- hay and straw (multiple places)
- new tiller (through LeRoy's Repair in Nashua)
- lumber (from E&M in Sumner and Hasbrouk in Tripoli)
We realize some of these don't fit some definitions of 'local' - but in those cases they are often about as local as we can get them. And, the list is not complete - and much is simplified to simply make the point.
In general, these are all expenses we would not have if we were not operating our farm business. You may argue that we would still buy shoes. But, I can tell you that our need for shoes, shoe repair and shoe replacement is higher than most because of what we do. But, this is beside the point. A business generates expenses.
Is it possible that not all small/local businesses work as hard to find local sources or retailers? Of course it is. Perhaps we are more idealistic about it than some. But, I stand by the statement that local businesses owners are much more aware of the needs of other local businesses. And, if an appropriate partnership can be arranged with another local business, it tends to be done.
'Nuff said
As a local business, we are more aware of other persons trying to make their own small businesses be successful. Thus, we are often on the lookout for these options when we are in the market for something in particular.
Examples of expenses our farm has distributed to local businesses:
- printing (The Printery in Waverly)
- liability insurance (Pfile Insurance in Tripoli)
- poultry feed (Frantzen Farms near New Hampton)
- plant starting medium and supplies (Beautiful Land in West Branch)
- seeds (many from Seed Savers in Decorah)
- fruit bearing plants (K and K Gardens in Hawkeye)
- granary roofing (Gingerich Construction in Hazelton)
- electrical work (John Axon in Tripoli)
- shoes (Thompson Shoes in Waverly)
- shoe repair (Deke's Shoe Repair in Waverly)
- hay and straw (multiple places)
- new tiller (through LeRoy's Repair in Nashua)
- lumber (from E&M in Sumner and Hasbrouk in Tripoli)
We realize some of these don't fit some definitions of 'local' - but in those cases they are often about as local as we can get them. And, the list is not complete - and much is simplified to simply make the point.
In general, these are all expenses we would not have if we were not operating our farm business. You may argue that we would still buy shoes. But, I can tell you that our need for shoes, shoe repair and shoe replacement is higher than most because of what we do. But, this is beside the point. A business generates expenses.
Is it possible that not all small/local businesses work as hard to find local sources or retailers? Of course it is. Perhaps we are more idealistic about it than some. But, I stand by the statement that local businesses owners are much more aware of the needs of other local businesses. And, if an appropriate partnership can be arranged with another local business, it tends to be done.
'Nuff said
Thursday, May 5, 2011
A Policy Post?
I don't think we've used the blog or newsletter for this purpose much. However, I am unsettled by news from MOSES regarding the possibility that two important programs may be defunded.
These two programs are, in my opinion, two of the very best. ATTRA and SARE. ATTRA provides numerous resources to farmers - including us. Their website is a great example of their work. The quality and quantity of information there is staggering. SARE encourages farmers to continue research towards exploring how to farm sustainably. If we're going to cut anything, we should consider cutting subsidies to those who make millions on super farms and encourage intelligent and careful research that work towards better farming techniques.
MOSES did a fine job of summarizing below:
-----------------------------------------------------------
These two programs are, in my opinion, two of the very best. ATTRA and SARE. ATTRA provides numerous resources to farmers - including us. Their website is a great example of their work. The quality and quantity of information there is staggering. SARE encourages farmers to continue research towards exploring how to farm sustainably. If we're going to cut anything, we should consider cutting subsidies to those who make millions on super farms and encourage intelligent and careful research that work towards better farming techniques.
MOSES did a fine job of summarizing below:
-----------------------------------------------------------
Organic and sustainable farmers know knowledge is a powerful tool, bringing innovation to their production systems and resulting in improved efficiencies and better economic returns.
The House has voted to slash the ATTRA budget, which could result in disappearance of their numerous bulletins and toll free information line. Almost 6 million sustainable agriculture bulletins were downloaded from the ATTRA website in 2010 alone, passing on information that can be found nowhere else. The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (also called ATTRA) offers professional, personalized help to farmers and ranchers across the nation looking for information on a wide variety of crop, livestock, energy, and marketing matters.
Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) funds research, education, and extension initiatives. SARE has consistently delivered cutting edge research and technology that is farmer-driven, regionally led, and outcomes-oriented. SARE research has provided farmers with practical production techniques that are environmentally friendly and economically sound.
Congress is about to make decisions on their priorities for the 2012 funding bill. Iowa Senator Tom Harkin and Representative Tom Latham sit on the subcommittees that decide agricultural funding levels. It’s important that you let them know you want to see full funding restored to the ATTRA at $3.0 million and SARE funded at $30 million.
It just takes a minute to call Senator Harkin’s office at (202) 224-3254. Ask for his aide, Richard Bender, or leave your message with the receptionist.
Please also call Representative Latham’s office at (202) 225-5476. Ask for his aide, Emily Clark, or leave your message with the receptionist.
The message is simple: “Thank you for your past support. Please fund National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA) at $3 million and the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) competitive grants program at $30 million, as requested by President Obama, to increase farm income, increase farming opportunities, increase alternative energy, and increase jobs.” If you have a personal statement describing your interaction with ATTRA or SARE, please tell them that as well.
Click here to learn more about SARE on the NSAC website:
Click here to learn more about the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service:
http://attra.ncat.org/who.html
Happy To Doooosday
Every once in a while, we like to post a 'what we have done today' list so people have an idea as to what tasks the farm requires of us. One of the best (and sometimes worst) things about the farm is that a very wide range of activities are required of us. We had a crew of three for much of yesterday, so here is a sample of what was done.
What did we do today (Wednesday was a To Dooosday)?
- Fed and watered the laying flock and collected eggs
- Fed and watered the broiler chicks (they're a week old already!)
- Fed and watered the cats....they didn't like being watered so much
- move 4-tier cold frames out of garage
- move carts with plants out of garage
- Sorted recycling and took it to the drop off in Tripoli
- paid some bills, dropped them in the mail and picked up mail in Tripoli
- opened up the high tunnel because it's a nice sunny day!
- moved stainless sink and counters from north side of granary
- moved portable chicken coop from north side of granary
- cleaned up metal around granary for recycling
- moved hog panels to back side of poultry pavillion
- moved chicken feeders to " "
- Ok - we moved lots of stuff around. Why? We will have roofers coming this month for the granary - can't have stuff around it.
- Performed a dance of the seedling trays - onions out of high tunnel for final hardening off period, brassica into high tunnel, tomatoes up from basement, etc etc.
- water lots of seedling trays
- water transplants in SW plot
- put in lettuce, collard and broccoli transplants (SW) and water them in
- use the new (working!) BCS tiller to make seedbeds in the SW
- plant spinach, radish, turnip, carrot, chard, arugula and mustard seed
- repair a hose (aaaaa duct tape - so what? it's not a permanent repair!)
- do spring wash of most of our trays, tubs and coolers (really, we have THAT MANY????)
- better pick some veg for Andrea to take home!
- get one of the JD mowers running
- fill multiple tires with air
- put together the grass catching trailer
- mow and mulch - yes, it is that time of year again.
- mulch the new transplants and mulch the asparagus plots - not coming up yet.
- start up Durnik and do some primary tillage in 3 different plots
- discover a broken cable from the ignition to the starter on Durnik - ah well - we'll have to fix that one of these days. For now, you can hold the cable to the starter and ... zzzzzzzzt!
- Take down cattle panels
- cut down some unwanted invasive plants in a fence line
- tack up a fence that is falling down
- pull down pots and flats for transplants
- sort pots for resuse out.
- transplant 120 tomatoes into pots
- receive an order from Beautiful Land Products and unpack it - discover one item isn't quite right, but the rest is perfect.
- check 4" soil temperature in the SW (51 degrees F - for those who are curious)
- put all cleaned and dried containers onto their appropriate shelves
- had a very nice kale and spinach fritata for lunch
- ok, we could only manage leftovers for dinner - but it WAS good. Chicken from the farm and a good chard/pasta dish Tammy made a few days ago.
- wash the sheets and another load of laundry, line dry and and put away - ahhhh clean sheets!
- put hens away, check on chicklets
- close up high tunnel for the night
- make sure all tools are collected and put under shelter for the night
- move the 4-tier cold frames into garage
- move carts with plants into garage
- respond to CSA email queries and other emails
- console unhappy and unjustly ignored kittens (or so they claimed this was the case)
- read a book for a while (T)
- stare at the computer and pretend that he might try to do some office work (R)
Good job! Let's see if we can do half as well today!
What did we do today (Wednesday was a To Dooosday)?
- Fed and watered the laying flock and collected eggs
- Fed and watered the broiler chicks (they're a week old already!)
- Fed and watered the cats....they didn't like being watered so much
- move 4-tier cold frames out of garage
- move carts with plants out of garage
- Sorted recycling and took it to the drop off in Tripoli
- paid some bills, dropped them in the mail and picked up mail in Tripoli
- opened up the high tunnel because it's a nice sunny day!
- moved stainless sink and counters from north side of granary
- moved portable chicken coop from north side of granary
- cleaned up metal around granary for recycling
- moved hog panels to back side of poultry pavillion
- moved chicken feeders to " "
- Ok - we moved lots of stuff around. Why? We will have roofers coming this month for the granary - can't have stuff around it.
- Performed a dance of the seedling trays - onions out of high tunnel for final hardening off period, brassica into high tunnel, tomatoes up from basement, etc etc.
- water lots of seedling trays
- water transplants in SW plot
- put in lettuce, collard and broccoli transplants (SW) and water them in
- use the new (working!) BCS tiller to make seedbeds in the SW
- plant spinach, radish, turnip, carrot, chard, arugula and mustard seed
- repair a hose (aaaaa duct tape - so what? it's not a permanent repair!)
- do spring wash of most of our trays, tubs and coolers (really, we have THAT MANY????)
- better pick some veg for Andrea to take home!
- get one of the JD mowers running
- fill multiple tires with air
- put together the grass catching trailer
- mow and mulch - yes, it is that time of year again.
- mulch the new transplants and mulch the asparagus plots - not coming up yet.
- start up Durnik and do some primary tillage in 3 different plots
- discover a broken cable from the ignition to the starter on Durnik - ah well - we'll have to fix that one of these days. For now, you can hold the cable to the starter and ... zzzzzzzzt!
- Take down cattle panels
- cut down some unwanted invasive plants in a fence line
- tack up a fence that is falling down
- pull down pots and flats for transplants
- sort pots for resuse out.
- transplant 120 tomatoes into pots
- receive an order from Beautiful Land Products and unpack it - discover one item isn't quite right, but the rest is perfect.
- check 4" soil temperature in the SW (51 degrees F - for those who are curious)
- put all cleaned and dried containers onto their appropriate shelves
- had a very nice kale and spinach fritata for lunch
- ok, we could only manage leftovers for dinner - but it WAS good. Chicken from the farm and a good chard/pasta dish Tammy made a few days ago.
- wash the sheets and another load of laundry, line dry and and put away - ahhhh clean sheets!
- put hens away, check on chicklets
- close up high tunnel for the night
- make sure all tools are collected and put under shelter for the night
- move the 4-tier cold frames into garage
- move carts with plants into garage
- respond to CSA email queries and other emails
- console unhappy and unjustly ignored kittens (or so they claimed this was the case)
- read a book for a while (T)
- stare at the computer and pretend that he might try to do some office work (R)
Good job! Let's see if we can do half as well today!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Mishmash #3
And, once again - we do the mishmash thing. Why? Because it seems like a way to get a batch of things off my mind and out into the... what is this place anyway?
1. The first batch of chicks for our broilers come tomorrow. Per the norm, there is always more that was left to the last moment to do in order to prepare for their arrival. And, as seems to happen most of the time - they'll grow up and we'll figure things out.
2. Speaking of chickens - we were? Oh, yes. I guess we were. We found an auracana hen that had died for no apparent reason today. It wasn't an old bird, no visible injuries and was one of our more active and healthy seeming birds. I suppose these things happen. But, when these things do happen, we tend to get nervous that there is something else going on that we should be responding to. We shall see - we're at least on alert just in case.
3. The new BCS tiller/tractor is now in our possession. It's a good looking machine. With a quick test, we can tell you that full throttle in high gear requires you to keep up at a run. So, we won't be doing that speed. I suspect high gear will get very little use on anything but low throttle. We knew this would be the case, but we had to try it. And for the record, Rob did not fall down or let go. He was able to bring it to a stop under control. So there!
4. Since February 28, we have been able to pick over 60 pounds of spinach out of the high tunnel. For a point of comparison, we tend to sell spinach in half pound bags at market and people seem to like that amount. Another point of comparison - a standard rubbermaid tub will hold 3-4 lbs when it is full (loosely packed). It's nice when something works.
5. From the "why didn't we think of this before?" category. We ordered a self-inking stamp for our logo and address. Prior to this, we would either print labels or hand write our address when doing mailings or other farm business. Hand writing takes more time than we want to spend. Labels take less time, but uses more resources than we would like. Labels require backing paper, adhesives, etc AND the ink we print. It's a little thing - but it's a little thing that will save us time, save us money over the long run and use fewer natural resources as well. Sometimes it's the little things...
6. Hi Dad!
7. Ah - about that weather.... Last time I posted I tried to use positive reinforcement with Mother Nature. Unfortunately, I think she suspected that I was trying to manipulate her and she decided we could have more wet and cold. Sorry about that.
8. The grading is done! The grading is done!
9. Paperwork is currently dragging Rob down. One might be surprised how much of it there is to do and how quickly things fall behind. And, no, others aren't usually able to help. The process of getting it all together in order to accept the help is nearly as bad as just doing the work. Ah well. Guess I post something here instead of doing the paperwork.
10. An interesting, but relatively easy dish to make. Grill some bratwurst. Boil up some pasta. Saute some swiss chard with onions, garlic and whatever you like. Cut up the brats and combine the whole thing. Pretty good taste combination.
11. We've signed up our farm as an underwriter for the KUNI public radio station. You just might hear our farm plugged by them during the second week in May. We support public radio anyway - so we decided to take it to the next level. If it gets us a new member or two for the CSA in the process - all the better.
1. The first batch of chicks for our broilers come tomorrow. Per the norm, there is always more that was left to the last moment to do in order to prepare for their arrival. And, as seems to happen most of the time - they'll grow up and we'll figure things out.
2. Speaking of chickens - we were? Oh, yes. I guess we were. We found an auracana hen that had died for no apparent reason today. It wasn't an old bird, no visible injuries and was one of our more active and healthy seeming birds. I suppose these things happen. But, when these things do happen, we tend to get nervous that there is something else going on that we should be responding to. We shall see - we're at least on alert just in case.
3. The new BCS tiller/tractor is now in our possession. It's a good looking machine. With a quick test, we can tell you that full throttle in high gear requires you to keep up at a run. So, we won't be doing that speed. I suspect high gear will get very little use on anything but low throttle. We knew this would be the case, but we had to try it. And for the record, Rob did not fall down or let go. He was able to bring it to a stop under control. So there!
4. Since February 28, we have been able to pick over 60 pounds of spinach out of the high tunnel. For a point of comparison, we tend to sell spinach in half pound bags at market and people seem to like that amount. Another point of comparison - a standard rubbermaid tub will hold 3-4 lbs when it is full (loosely packed). It's nice when something works.
5. From the "why didn't we think of this before?" category. We ordered a self-inking stamp for our logo and address. Prior to this, we would either print labels or hand write our address when doing mailings or other farm business. Hand writing takes more time than we want to spend. Labels take less time, but uses more resources than we would like. Labels require backing paper, adhesives, etc AND the ink we print. It's a little thing - but it's a little thing that will save us time, save us money over the long run and use fewer natural resources as well. Sometimes it's the little things...
6. Hi Dad!
7. Ah - about that weather.... Last time I posted I tried to use positive reinforcement with Mother Nature. Unfortunately, I think she suspected that I was trying to manipulate her and she decided we could have more wet and cold. Sorry about that.
8. The grading is done! The grading is done!
9. Paperwork is currently dragging Rob down. One might be surprised how much of it there is to do and how quickly things fall behind. And, no, others aren't usually able to help. The process of getting it all together in order to accept the help is nearly as bad as just doing the work. Ah well. Guess I post something here instead of doing the paperwork.
10. An interesting, but relatively easy dish to make. Grill some bratwurst. Boil up some pasta. Saute some swiss chard with onions, garlic and whatever you like. Cut up the brats and combine the whole thing. Pretty good taste combination.
11. We've signed up our farm as an underwriter for the KUNI public radio station. You just might hear our farm plugged by them during the second week in May. We support public radio anyway - so we decided to take it to the next level. If it gets us a new member or two for the CSA in the process - all the better.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Mishmash #2
Since I can't seem to come up with a single theme for a post - we'll do the mishmash thing again.
1. Easter at the farm was enjoyable. We were pleased to be joined by Rob's parents and his brother and family. And, there was a visit from that bright orb in the sky. What was that thing called again?
2. Now that I have begun typing, a catten (not a kitten anymore and not quite a cat) is trying to sit on my arms. She will either win or leave. We shall see.
3. The giant maple tree we had taken down early last Winter is slowly, but surely getting cleaned up. We rented a chipper for the afternoon and got as much as we could done. My hands and arms still feel like they're shaking around a bit.
4. We've been pleased to be able to provide greens to the Waverly Child Care from our high tunnel this Spring. It's good to know that some fresh produce is getting to the kids and staff that works so hard to care for the children.
5. Grading is now in earnest for Tammy. She abides by her own rule that she will not grade during Easter weekend. But, of course, it has its consequences.
6. In a continuing effort to work smarter and be more resilient in the face of potentially adverse weather - we have made another purchase for the farm. We hope to receive delivery of a new BCS walk behind tractor for the farm. It's more than a tiller, but not quite a full tractor. Trust us, it's a good investment that comes highly recommended by others who do what we do. Our hand was forced a bit with the breakdown of the JD tiller attachment last Fall.
7. Speaking of the weather. Have you noticed something about the rain so far this year (don't say this too loud)? Forget your worries about it not being perfectly warm and sunny. That will come soon enough. Consider this: How many downpours have we had this year? Thankfully - we count ZERO so far. Just some liquid gold coming down at a rate that can soak into the ground and give us wonderful moisture for growing things.
8. We spent time with a service trip group stacking cages neatly on the east side of the farm a while back. Well, strong winds have rearranged that a bit. Ah well - when you work with the weather it can sometimes have its little jokes.
9. The farm was able to donate five dozen eggs to our church for the youth breakfast on Easter Sunday. It's nice to be able to do that. Often, we find that we are rich in many ways that have little to do with money. And, if is even better when we can find ways to help others share in that richness.
10. A new high tunnel learning curve issue. Aphids like high tunnels in the Spring. And, the natural predators a slower to catch up to them. It's not the end of the world, but it does require lots of extra time cleaning the lettuce.
11. And, finally....Number 11. People wonder why I sometimes seem a little reticent to embrace the coming of Spring. Don't get me wrong - I love Spring. It's a wonderful time of year. The Chirpa Chirpa bird (brown thrasher) just showed up here, as did some swallows. I just saw my first Pasque Flower this morning as well. Excellent stuff. But, April and May are the months during which my body has to go through the 'toughening up' process. I won't lie - it hurts. And, if you think working out during the Winter can remove this - just ask some of the folks who have worked on the farm. They can vouch for me when I say - you're still going to hurt for a while.
So, until the next post. Ow.
1. Easter at the farm was enjoyable. We were pleased to be joined by Rob's parents and his brother and family. And, there was a visit from that bright orb in the sky. What was that thing called again?
2. Now that I have begun typing, a catten (not a kitten anymore and not quite a cat) is trying to sit on my arms. She will either win or leave. We shall see.
3. The giant maple tree we had taken down early last Winter is slowly, but surely getting cleaned up. We rented a chipper for the afternoon and got as much as we could done. My hands and arms still feel like they're shaking around a bit.
4. We've been pleased to be able to provide greens to the Waverly Child Care from our high tunnel this Spring. It's good to know that some fresh produce is getting to the kids and staff that works so hard to care for the children.
5. Grading is now in earnest for Tammy. She abides by her own rule that she will not grade during Easter weekend. But, of course, it has its consequences.
6. In a continuing effort to work smarter and be more resilient in the face of potentially adverse weather - we have made another purchase for the farm. We hope to receive delivery of a new BCS walk behind tractor for the farm. It's more than a tiller, but not quite a full tractor. Trust us, it's a good investment that comes highly recommended by others who do what we do. Our hand was forced a bit with the breakdown of the JD tiller attachment last Fall.
7. Speaking of the weather. Have you noticed something about the rain so far this year (don't say this too loud)? Forget your worries about it not being perfectly warm and sunny. That will come soon enough. Consider this: How many downpours have we had this year? Thankfully - we count ZERO so far. Just some liquid gold coming down at a rate that can soak into the ground and give us wonderful moisture for growing things.
8. We spent time with a service trip group stacking cages neatly on the east side of the farm a while back. Well, strong winds have rearranged that a bit. Ah well - when you work with the weather it can sometimes have its little jokes.
9. The farm was able to donate five dozen eggs to our church for the youth breakfast on Easter Sunday. It's nice to be able to do that. Often, we find that we are rich in many ways that have little to do with money. And, if is even better when we can find ways to help others share in that richness.
10. A new high tunnel learning curve issue. Aphids like high tunnels in the Spring. And, the natural predators a slower to catch up to them. It's not the end of the world, but it does require lots of extra time cleaning the lettuce.
11. And, finally....Number 11. People wonder why I sometimes seem a little reticent to embrace the coming of Spring. Don't get me wrong - I love Spring. It's a wonderful time of year. The Chirpa Chirpa bird (brown thrasher) just showed up here, as did some swallows. I just saw my first Pasque Flower this morning as well. Excellent stuff. But, April and May are the months during which my body has to go through the 'toughening up' process. I won't lie - it hurts. And, if you think working out during the Winter can remove this - just ask some of the folks who have worked on the farm. They can vouch for me when I say - you're still going to hurt for a while.
So, until the next post. Ow.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Mishmash
This blog post is going to be very newsy - and hopefully to the point.
1. Our CSA still has many openings for the regular season (June-Oct). Send us an email if you are interested.
2. We just learned that the Cedar Valley RC&D office will be closing (in New Hampton). Yet another situation where the budget requires changes. If there was a positive force in the area for local foods, smaller farms and rural improvement - this was one.
3. With the help of the superhero Bandsaw Man, we now have a primary tillage implement for Durnik the tractor. The result - primary tillage for one 60'x200' used to take 2.5 hours. With the new tool? 22 minutes. Nice. Gas used? Less. Nicer.
4. The Waverly Farmers' Market will begin the first Saturday in May (May 7). We will split the market for that day only between two locations. Some vendors will be a part of the Health Fair at the W and some will be at our regular market location. We will all be at the normal location from there on out.
5. Our organic certification paperwork was in on time for early application. Materials are approved, all that is left is to undergo the yearly inspection.
6. The Climate Prediction Center is showing a slightly cooler and wetter April/May, but likely normal weather patterns late May-July. That's ok with me.
7. Winter term is in finals week for Tammy at the college. The normal silliness that ensues with end of term hold true yet again this year.
8. We're wondering whether Facebook is worth our time? If you use facebook notice that there are two settings - "Top News" and "Most Recent." FB assumes "Top News." But, if our posts are not deemed to be "Top" for you, it will be hidden some way down the page. If you want to see most recent posts from all of your 'friends' you need to choose "Most Recent."
9. The conversion to the 'new' computer is almost complete. The hard part is getting all of the drivers and software updated and making necessary conversions. Remember, I had the old machine for over six years.
10. We've appreciated the work done by the Printery in Waverly. We found that their costs for printing new business cards were well worth it. While we were at it, we had some invoice books made. Good investment.
11. Work in the high tunnel is still very much a learning process. Planting trays in that building is far nicer than in the basement or garage. The early Spring greens are nice. But, it is another thing on the farm that makes it hard for us to go elsewhere. If it is sunny with outdoor temps in the high 30's, you have to vent the tunnel. Then, close it up at night.
This list - it goes to 11.
1. Our CSA still has many openings for the regular season (June-Oct). Send us an email if you are interested.
2. We just learned that the Cedar Valley RC&D office will be closing (in New Hampton). Yet another situation where the budget requires changes. If there was a positive force in the area for local foods, smaller farms and rural improvement - this was one.
3. With the help of the superhero Bandsaw Man, we now have a primary tillage implement for Durnik the tractor. The result - primary tillage for one 60'x200' used to take 2.5 hours. With the new tool? 22 minutes. Nice. Gas used? Less. Nicer.
4. The Waverly Farmers' Market will begin the first Saturday in May (May 7). We will split the market for that day only between two locations. Some vendors will be a part of the Health Fair at the W and some will be at our regular market location. We will all be at the normal location from there on out.
5. Our organic certification paperwork was in on time for early application. Materials are approved, all that is left is to undergo the yearly inspection.
6. The Climate Prediction Center is showing a slightly cooler and wetter April/May, but likely normal weather patterns late May-July. That's ok with me.
7. Winter term is in finals week for Tammy at the college. The normal silliness that ensues with end of term hold true yet again this year.
8. We're wondering whether Facebook is worth our time? If you use facebook notice that there are two settings - "Top News" and "Most Recent." FB assumes "Top News." But, if our posts are not deemed to be "Top" for you, it will be hidden some way down the page. If you want to see most recent posts from all of your 'friends' you need to choose "Most Recent."
9. The conversion to the 'new' computer is almost complete. The hard part is getting all of the drivers and software updated and making necessary conversions. Remember, I had the old machine for over six years.
10. We've appreciated the work done by the Printery in Waverly. We found that their costs for printing new business cards were well worth it. While we were at it, we had some invoice books made. Good investment.
11. Work in the high tunnel is still very much a learning process. Planting trays in that building is far nicer than in the basement or garage. The early Spring greens are nice. But, it is another thing on the farm that makes it hard for us to go elsewhere. If it is sunny with outdoor temps in the high 30's, you have to vent the tunnel. Then, close it up at night.
This list - it goes to 11.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Feeling Handy
It is definitely Spring.
Green grass, snow, robins, workable soil, wind, more critters out and about around the farm, rain... and the beginning of dry, rough hand season. Dirt begins residing in the cracks that form on my hands and will not go away unless I'm outside getting soaked in a rain. No amount of scrubbing with soap and scrub brushes will get it all out until then. And, if you've ever done any amount of gardening without gloves - you also know the early season feeling you get when dirt is shoved up under the nails. Not pleasant, but you toughen up eventually.
Yes, yes, I know. Wear gloves. If you want to see logic regarding such things - go to Road Map to Zucchini look in the left margin and scroll down. I think you'll figure it out.
Other interesting farm things:
- Chickens in the wind. You know it is windy when most of a chickens feathers fan out when their back end faces the wind. It can be interesting watching them attempt to maintain their balance. Needless to say, on days like that, they usually stay in sheltered locations.
- The seedling tray dance is in full swing. The high tunnel has many trays of onions and leeks on the ground. There are also trays of lettuce, broccoli, kale and other items there. The garage has a growing unit with peppers and eggplants and a few trays of marigolds. One four-tier has tomatoes, basil, spices, snapdragons and cockscomb. A cart holds recently transplanted Silvery Fir Tree tomatoes. The downstairs seed starting shelves hold more tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, broccoli, cauliflower, kale and whatever else there is. Soon, the cold frames will hold plants as well.
Green grass, snow, robins, workable soil, wind, more critters out and about around the farm, rain... and the beginning of dry, rough hand season. Dirt begins residing in the cracks that form on my hands and will not go away unless I'm outside getting soaked in a rain. No amount of scrubbing with soap and scrub brushes will get it all out until then. And, if you've ever done any amount of gardening without gloves - you also know the early season feeling you get when dirt is shoved up under the nails. Not pleasant, but you toughen up eventually.
Yes, yes, I know. Wear gloves. If you want to see logic regarding such things - go to Road Map to Zucchini look in the left margin and scroll down. I think you'll figure it out.
Other interesting farm things:
- Chickens in the wind. You know it is windy when most of a chickens feathers fan out when their back end faces the wind. It can be interesting watching them attempt to maintain their balance. Needless to say, on days like that, they usually stay in sheltered locations.
- The seedling tray dance is in full swing. The high tunnel has many trays of onions and leeks on the ground. There are also trays of lettuce, broccoli, kale and other items there. The garage has a growing unit with peppers and eggplants and a few trays of marigolds. One four-tier has tomatoes, basil, spices, snapdragons and cockscomb. A cart holds recently transplanted Silvery Fir Tree tomatoes. The downstairs seed starting shelves hold more tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, broccoli, cauliflower, kale and whatever else there is. Soon, the cold frames will hold plants as well.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
A new farm report
It's been a bit since the last farm report - and since the two of us spent a fairly busy day outside on Saturday...
I think Tammy will agree that we had our first day of the year where we both were barely able to crawl into bed at the end of the day. Even if you don't do the 'farming' thing, I think most people can relate to the special kind of tired that one gets after spending the first really full day outside in the Spring. And, this is not necessarily a bad thing - even if it can be somewhat painful.
In our case, we spent some time doing the Spring cleaning for one of the two rooms the hens use at night - and for a large part of the Winter when they will not go out. For the record, chickens do not like walking in snow and will come to a screeching halt in the doorway when they see it. It is mildly interesting watching the birds in back bowl into the birds in front. There is always one (or two) that get the bright idea of flying OVER everyone else. Those birds that do this usually land in the snow and just sit there. It's almost as if the shock of the snow freezes them into place. This is one of the few times we can walk right up to a bird and pick it up with no chasing and no squawking. But, I suppose that is neither here nor there with respect to the point of this post.... But, you probably don't care since this was more fun!
We seeded many more trays of peppers, eggplants, broccoli, marigolds and lettuce. The process seems fairly simple, but it is amazing how much work it can be. This season, we have been doing most of the seeding in the high tunnel because it is just more pleasant out there than it is in the garage or the basement. It has some advantages - but the disadvantage is that there is a bit more moving of soil, trays and other materials back and forth. But, the simple fact that the work space is more pleasant makes it easy to forgive any of the inconveniences. And, it happens every year - we've already made our first few "oopses." The temps got a bit colder than expected and we lost a tray of beautiful marigolds that didn't get under cover. Ah well, we might as well knock over three or four trays of tomatoes and get that mistake over for the year too.
One of the service trip groups from Wartburg College volunteered some time at the farm Saturday and we were able to move all of the tomato cages out of last year's field and out of the way until they are placed in the new field. With eight of us working, we had them all pulled, cleaned and moved in ninety minutes. To put it into perspective, we had to pull about 380 cages - not a small task and always easier with a crew. Rob has had years where he has moved most of them himself. Usually in sessions of 50-60 per day for a week. The process entails alot of walking since cages and stakes have to be out of the way so the fields can be prepared for planting.
Tammy and I also made sure to spread compost on this year's melon/watermelon field. These crops are heavy feeders, so this should help them make a good go of it this year. Once again, you must consider that we do not have a spreader for compost/manure. So, the trips were made essentially one wheelbarrow at a time. They are, at least, bigger wheel barrows. Then, we spread the compost around with a garden rake. Slowly, but surely, we are finding ways to make many tasks more efficient - this one just isn't there yet. But, it is also a task that occurs in very late fall or very early spring -so it isn't all that bad of a thing to work oneself into shape.
The high tunnel has spinach, kale, lettuce, onions and leeks growing in it right now. We have several plants ready to be transplanted and lots of seed ready to go in. We're looking to put in early spinach, arugula and radish in the next week. We'll see what happens.
It's Spring - who knows?
I think Tammy will agree that we had our first day of the year where we both were barely able to crawl into bed at the end of the day. Even if you don't do the 'farming' thing, I think most people can relate to the special kind of tired that one gets after spending the first really full day outside in the Spring. And, this is not necessarily a bad thing - even if it can be somewhat painful.
In our case, we spent some time doing the Spring cleaning for one of the two rooms the hens use at night - and for a large part of the Winter when they will not go out. For the record, chickens do not like walking in snow and will come to a screeching halt in the doorway when they see it. It is mildly interesting watching the birds in back bowl into the birds in front. There is always one (or two) that get the bright idea of flying OVER everyone else. Those birds that do this usually land in the snow and just sit there. It's almost as if the shock of the snow freezes them into place. This is one of the few times we can walk right up to a bird and pick it up with no chasing and no squawking. But, I suppose that is neither here nor there with respect to the point of this post.... But, you probably don't care since this was more fun!
We seeded many more trays of peppers, eggplants, broccoli, marigolds and lettuce. The process seems fairly simple, but it is amazing how much work it can be. This season, we have been doing most of the seeding in the high tunnel because it is just more pleasant out there than it is in the garage or the basement. It has some advantages - but the disadvantage is that there is a bit more moving of soil, trays and other materials back and forth. But, the simple fact that the work space is more pleasant makes it easy to forgive any of the inconveniences. And, it happens every year - we've already made our first few "oopses." The temps got a bit colder than expected and we lost a tray of beautiful marigolds that didn't get under cover. Ah well, we might as well knock over three or four trays of tomatoes and get that mistake over for the year too.
One of the service trip groups from Wartburg College volunteered some time at the farm Saturday and we were able to move all of the tomato cages out of last year's field and out of the way until they are placed in the new field. With eight of us working, we had them all pulled, cleaned and moved in ninety minutes. To put it into perspective, we had to pull about 380 cages - not a small task and always easier with a crew. Rob has had years where he has moved most of them himself. Usually in sessions of 50-60 per day for a week. The process entails alot of walking since cages and stakes have to be out of the way so the fields can be prepared for planting.
Tammy and I also made sure to spread compost on this year's melon/watermelon field. These crops are heavy feeders, so this should help them make a good go of it this year. Once again, you must consider that we do not have a spreader for compost/manure. So, the trips were made essentially one wheelbarrow at a time. They are, at least, bigger wheel barrows. Then, we spread the compost around with a garden rake. Slowly, but surely, we are finding ways to make many tasks more efficient - this one just isn't there yet. But, it is also a task that occurs in very late fall or very early spring -so it isn't all that bad of a thing to work oneself into shape.
The high tunnel has spinach, kale, lettuce, onions and leeks growing in it right now. We have several plants ready to be transplanted and lots of seed ready to go in. We're looking to put in early spinach, arugula and radish in the next week. We'll see what happens.
It's Spring - who knows?
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Short Memory
Ok, we've forgotten - or more appropriately - our bodies have forgotten.
It happens every Spring - a nice weekend comes along and we spend as much time as we can doing active things for the farm. It's not as if we don't move around or get exercise during the Winter. But, those who have worked on the farm with us can vouch for us on this. A couple of full work days on the farm can make you feel as if you haven't gotten off your duff all Winter long.
We spent most of Saturday on our feet at a farm auction. Yes, you heard that right. But, if we're going to make Durnik (the tractor) work for us this year, we have to find implements. In the process, we also were able to find and acquire some things for the poultry as well. We'll try to take some pictures and show you what we're adding to the farm as a result of this auction.
Things we were reminded of on Saturday.
Now - brace for tomorrow. After today's mild and warm weather, tomorrow's wind and temps in the 40's are going to feel like a slap in the face.
But, hey! It's Spring.
It happens every Spring - a nice weekend comes along and we spend as much time as we can doing active things for the farm. It's not as if we don't move around or get exercise during the Winter. But, those who have worked on the farm with us can vouch for us on this. A couple of full work days on the farm can make you feel as if you haven't gotten off your duff all Winter long.
We spent most of Saturday on our feet at a farm auction. Yes, you heard that right. But, if we're going to make Durnik (the tractor) work for us this year, we have to find implements. In the process, we also were able to find and acquire some things for the poultry as well. We'll try to take some pictures and show you what we're adding to the farm as a result of this auction.
Things we were reminded of on Saturday.
- The sun is strong enough that sun tan lotion *would* have been a good idea.
- We need to get used to walking ALOT. The time spent walking and standing at the auction was a reminder that we add squatting, lifting, etc to days on the farm. So, if a day of walking and standing seems like work now....
- We should never underestimate the value of good friends with good knowledge of things you are trying to learn about.
Now - brace for tomorrow. After today's mild and warm weather, tomorrow's wind and temps in the 40's are going to feel like a slap in the face.
But, hey! It's Spring.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
T Shirt Design Contest
We are going to move forward with a new t-shirt design for this season. We will be bringing back "Minding Your Peas and Cukes" and will consider bringing back "They're Real" if enough people tell us they *will* purchase them. Don't just tell us you *might* - that doesn't help.
======================================================
T-shirt design rules:
1. Select one of the themes in the list given below the 'rules.' You may interpret the theme as you see fit.
2. You may make as many entries as you wish on as many themes as you wish.
2. Every design needs to include our logo. Scroll down for a usable jpg file copy
3. Designs for the front (or back) only of the t-shirt.
4. All designs are 1 or 2 color. Half tones are the equivalent of one color.
5. You may suggest a color for the t-shirt from SOS in Texas color scheme to best match or supplement your design
6. You may use whatever software you would like to create your design, but we ask that you provide us with a high quality JPG file for our reference. If you are wondering if another file type can be used - contact SOS in Texas and ask them what they can use to do the screening.
7. To submit an entry - email it to us at the farm. The subject line should be t-shirt design. Include your name, contact information and any instructions for the design in the body of the email. The design should be an attachment. If your file type is acceptable to SOS, but not JPG - make a JPG copy and send that to us as well.
8. We will give appropriate credit for the designer of any and every shirt design we use. We are not limiting ourselves to accepting only one design, we may accept several, but may not print them all immediately.
9. Accepted designs will be given a printed copy of the shirt, some other reward to be determined and our eternal gratitude.
10. We will be buying organic cotton shirts from SOS in Texas - feel free to see what they are about.
Who may submit design options:
At present, we are targeting Wartburg College students for this project. However, if you would like to try, I'm not sure we want to stop you!
Deadline: April 17, 2011
Themes (listed in no particular order):
1. Fear the Zucchini
2. Organically Grown - Protein Added (picture a broccoli w/ smiling worm sticking out of top)
3. Sasquash (picture a hairy squash with big feet... of course)
4. We've Got the Beet(s)
5. Where Have We Bean All Your Life?
6. American Gopick (take on American Gothic)
7. Common Tater, Dick Tater, Darth Tater, etc etc (don't forget the little ones - also known as Speck Taters). Now you can choose because only you can tell if this spud's for you.
8. She's my Melon Collie Baby.... sorry, had to - but imagine a puppy sitting on a watermelon....
9. Dysfunctional Veg Family - Ma Bell (pepper), Father Thyme, brothers Carrot Top, Cole Robby, sister Mary Gold and Baby ? in a corn crib. Then there is the extended family standing over by the well - we call them our pump kin....
10. Whenever someone makes a mistake, we just give them the rhubarb.
11. Oui, we weed
Our logo - a decent file you can use. open in browser and save.
Current designs for reference:
1. Minding Your Peas and Cukes
2. They're Real!
3. Farm collage
======================================================
T-shirt design rules:
1. Select one of the themes in the list given below the 'rules.' You may interpret the theme as you see fit.
2. You may make as many entries as you wish on as many themes as you wish.
2. Every design needs to include our logo. Scroll down for a usable jpg file copy
3. Designs for the front (or back) only of the t-shirt.
4. All designs are 1 or 2 color. Half tones are the equivalent of one color.
5. You may suggest a color for the t-shirt from SOS in Texas color scheme to best match or supplement your design
6. You may use whatever software you would like to create your design, but we ask that you provide us with a high quality JPG file for our reference. If you are wondering if another file type can be used - contact SOS in Texas and ask them what they can use to do the screening.
7. To submit an entry - email it to us at the farm. The subject line should be t-shirt design. Include your name, contact information and any instructions for the design in the body of the email. The design should be an attachment. If your file type is acceptable to SOS, but not JPG - make a JPG copy and send that to us as well.
8. We will give appropriate credit for the designer of any and every shirt design we use. We are not limiting ourselves to accepting only one design, we may accept several, but may not print them all immediately.
9. Accepted designs will be given a printed copy of the shirt, some other reward to be determined and our eternal gratitude.
10. We will be buying organic cotton shirts from SOS in Texas - feel free to see what they are about.
Who may submit design options:
At present, we are targeting Wartburg College students for this project. However, if you would like to try, I'm not sure we want to stop you!
Deadline: April 17, 2011
Themes (listed in no particular order):
1. Fear the Zucchini
2. Organically Grown - Protein Added (picture a broccoli w/ smiling worm sticking out of top)
3. Sasquash (picture a hairy squash with big feet... of course)
4. We've Got the Beet(s)
5. Where Have We Bean All Your Life?
6. American Gopick (take on American Gothic)
7. Common Tater, Dick Tater, Darth Tater, etc etc (don't forget the little ones - also known as Speck Taters). Now you can choose because only you can tell if this spud's for you.
8. She's my Melon Collie Baby.... sorry, had to - but imagine a puppy sitting on a watermelon....
9. Dysfunctional Veg Family - Ma Bell (pepper), Father Thyme, brothers Carrot Top, Cole Robby, sister Mary Gold and Baby ? in a corn crib. Then there is the extended family standing over by the well - we call them our pump kin....
10. Whenever someone makes a mistake, we just give them the rhubarb.
11. Oui, we weed
Our logo - a decent file you can use. open in browser and save.
Current designs for reference:
1. Minding Your Peas and Cukes
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Bread for the World
The Genuine Faux Farm was given an opportunity to host representatives of Bread for the World, the Northeast Iowa Food Bank and the Vinyard Church's community dinner program for a discussion about issues relating to supporting food systems that will work to feed everyone, including those who are less privileged. Our thanks to Todd Post and Monica Mills for traveling from Washington, DC to visit with us. Thanks also to Sheri Huber-Otting, Barb Prather (NEI Food Bank) and Nancy Magnall (Vinyard Church).
Rather than report what we discussed at this time - we want to ask you:
What should we be doing to be sure everyone is fed?
Apply the "we" at whatever levels you wish. governmental, social, personal, even with respect to our farm - your choice. Reply on the blog - or send an email to us and we'll post anonymously for you.
Rob and Tammy
Rather than report what we discussed at this time - we want to ask you:
What should we be doing to be sure everyone is fed?
Apply the "we" at whatever levels you wish. governmental, social, personal, even with respect to our farm - your choice. Reply on the blog - or send an email to us and we'll post anonymously for you.
Rob and Tammy
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
New Look Fields?
We have a little re arranging to do on the farm (again...or still).
Below is our old farm map. Of particular interest is the triangular area in the center top. We intend to change this so we can work the field more efficiently. Really, triangles are cool - just not the best thing for what we do.
Some things are done. For example, HT1 and HT2 are our high tunnel with it's two growing locations. We've split out NW1b with a fence for poultry grazing, but still need to put up fences for NW1a and NW1c. We have to take down a fence, remove some brush and level out area to make the new T1-T3 configuration work. And, there is a bunch of things that need to be moved before SW2 becomes a reality.
I smell opportunities for early Tom Sawyer Days!
Below is our old farm map. Of particular interest is the triangular area in the center top. We intend to change this so we can work the field more efficiently. Really, triangles are cool - just not the best thing for what we do.
And, of course, here is our map for our intended farm layout beginning this year.
Some things are done. For example, HT1 and HT2 are our high tunnel with it's two growing locations. We've split out NW1b with a fence for poultry grazing, but still need to put up fences for NW1a and NW1c. We have to take down a fence, remove some brush and level out area to make the new T1-T3 configuration work. And, there is a bunch of things that need to be moved before SW2 becomes a reality.
I smell opportunities for early Tom Sawyer Days!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Certified Organic - Safe Seed
One of our recent farm tasks has been to complete the paperwork for our organic certification. It is something we have to do every Spring and it is a non-trivial task. Don't get me wrong, I think it is a worthwhile task - it just takes some time and effort. So....
How many of you think organic means "no spray" or "no chemicals"?
This assumption is inaccurate in two ways. First - there are sprays that are available for use in organic systems, but they are not synthetics. Second - there is much more to maintaining organic certification (and hence an organic operation) than simply not spraying chemicals. In short, organic certification forces the farmer to think about everything in their growing system and to develop that system so that it minimizes negative impact on the environment. Included in this system are practices to provide for tracking and increased safety of the food produced.
Rather than bore everyone with a complete list of things we report on and track to maintain our certification, I thought it might be interesting to throw one thing out there and maybe revisit it again in the future - especially if people show interest in hearing more.
"Safe Seed" - Organic certification does not require that all seed be organic. It does require that any seed treatment be on the NOIP (national standards) list or the seed cannot be used. It also requires that we purchase organic seed of varieties we plant if it is available - within reason. For example, we grow Jade green beans. We ordered organic seed, but the company ran out prior to our placed order. We made a good faith effort to purchase organic seed, but none of our seed suppliers had it for this variety. So, the non-organic seed was purchased. It is possible that *some* supplier *somewhere* still had organic seed for Jade green beans - but we are not forced to prove that a source does not exist. Instead, we need to show a good faith effort. It is actually more important that we patronize good seed companies that provide a 'safe seed' pledge that indicates responsible production of seed that is not contaminated by GMO, etc etc. It is our responsibility, as the seed purchaser to research our suppliers and determine their reliability. If they have organic seed for what we grow, then we buy it. As a result, our patronage serves as a vote for these seed companies to increase their organic seed production for future years.
How many of you think organic means "no spray" or "no chemicals"?
This assumption is inaccurate in two ways. First - there are sprays that are available for use in organic systems, but they are not synthetics. Second - there is much more to maintaining organic certification (and hence an organic operation) than simply not spraying chemicals. In short, organic certification forces the farmer to think about everything in their growing system and to develop that system so that it minimizes negative impact on the environment. Included in this system are practices to provide for tracking and increased safety of the food produced.
Rather than bore everyone with a complete list of things we report on and track to maintain our certification, I thought it might be interesting to throw one thing out there and maybe revisit it again in the future - especially if people show interest in hearing more.
"Safe Seed" - Organic certification does not require that all seed be organic. It does require that any seed treatment be on the NOIP (national standards) list or the seed cannot be used. It also requires that we purchase organic seed of varieties we plant if it is available - within reason. For example, we grow Jade green beans. We ordered organic seed, but the company ran out prior to our placed order. We made a good faith effort to purchase organic seed, but none of our seed suppliers had it for this variety. So, the non-organic seed was purchased. It is possible that *some* supplier *somewhere* still had organic seed for Jade green beans - but we are not forced to prove that a source does not exist. Instead, we need to show a good faith effort. It is actually more important that we patronize good seed companies that provide a 'safe seed' pledge that indicates responsible production of seed that is not contaminated by GMO, etc etc. It is our responsibility, as the seed purchaser to research our suppliers and determine their reliability. If they have organic seed for what we grow, then we buy it. As a result, our patronage serves as a vote for these seed companies to increase their organic seed production for future years.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Talking the Talk (more vocabu....)
More Genuine Faux Farm terminology!
Just so everyone can understand us better!
Sun puddle - especially prevalent on sunny Winter days. Cats are particularly good at commandeering the flat spaces where a sun puddle resides. Beware - they (the sun puddles) tend to move.
UnEgg Space - when you tend to pick 3 to 4 dozen eggs a day from your laying flock, *any* space in the refrigerator that does not hold eggs is UnEgg Space.
Executive Decision - there are numerous times during the growing season that a decision simply gets made for us. That's just the way it is.
Ed - the six row seeder is named Ed. Only Ed might have an idea as to why that is.
Time Wasters - aka kittens.
Field Access Indicators - the puddles in the drive area. If they are full, you likely can't work the soil in the fields. If they are damp, pretty close to ready. Dry? Go for it.
the Park - where the meat birds go to chill. Literally.
Just so everyone can understand us better!
Sun puddle - especially prevalent on sunny Winter days. Cats are particularly good at commandeering the flat spaces where a sun puddle resides. Beware - they (the sun puddles) tend to move.
UnEgg Space - when you tend to pick 3 to 4 dozen eggs a day from your laying flock, *any* space in the refrigerator that does not hold eggs is UnEgg Space.
Executive Decision - there are numerous times during the growing season that a decision simply gets made for us. That's just the way it is.
Ed - the six row seeder is named Ed. Only Ed might have an idea as to why that is.
Time Wasters - aka kittens.
Field Access Indicators - the puddles in the drive area. If they are full, you likely can't work the soil in the fields. If they are damp, pretty close to ready. Dry? Go for it.
the Park - where the meat birds go to chill. Literally.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Traveling for the Amused
Recently, Tammy and I have done a bit of traveling. So, consider this a notice that we have been traveling and we're trying to catch up on things. But, since THAT is not really worth reading - we'll do something to make it more interesting by bringing you:
TRAVELING OBSERVATIONS!
Tanks for the Memories: We drove past a sign for a military weaponry/equipment museum. We really think they missed the boat by failing to use this tag line.
Sillicoon Valley: And, the winner of noticing a good tagline or name when you see it goes to the tech/computer service company in Coon Valley. Fabulous. I think I laughed about this on and off for a half hour.
Skyline or Goldstar?: Only people who have gone to Cincinnati and had Cincinnati chili can answer this question. Without a doubt, Skyline. But, why do they call it chili? And, I eat it for the cheese.
We love cheese, really we do...: For those who grew up watching Loony Toons you might recognize this line. Tammy and I can't help but quote it when we are in Wisconsin...after purchasing FRESH (made same day) cheese curds. Ah, the squeaking!
Signs of the Times: We found it interesting that a high percentage of billboard signs on our route were not being used. Unless you count the company that rents the signs out advertising that you could use their sign.
Overheard at the Organic Farming Conference (part 1): "It sure is nice to interact with other farmers and not have to argue about spraying issues."
Overheard at the Organic Farming Conference (part 2): "I don't understand why the inspector didn't approve our application (for organic certification (we presume)). We only spray when there is a problem." (and yes, they were soon educated)
Overheard at the BPD Conference (for Social Work Educators): "I went around the block and came back here..." (imagine that)
Shifty: All we can say is this. If you are used to a manual transmission and you are stuck driving an automatic for an extended drive... you WILL frequently attempt to push in the imaginary clutch and you WILL reach for a stick shift. Even if you verbally tell yourself not to do it.
Stop that TEXTING I really MEAN IT!: This one isn't meant to be funny. Because it isn't. We encountered many drivers that had inconsistent speeds and didn't always stay in their lane. Our tendency is to take the opportunity to pass and get away from those autos at our earliest opportunity to safely do so. What was the common denominator for each of those occurrences? The driver was alone in the car and staring down at a phone or other device to read or send text messages.
Least used part of a hotel/motel room?: It has to be the closet. You're staying for one, maybe two nights. You're living out of a suitcase. And, no other place smells more like a hotel/motel than the closet.
How to get attention in a crowded room?: Walk into the room with a heavy duty chopping hoe in your hands. Works every time.
How to get attention in a less than crowded room?: Juggle the muffin in your hands in an attempt to NOT drop it. Everyone knows what I mean here...you start to drop it, but make a quick motion to catch it, but it pops up into the air and you....reach to catch it, but it bounces out of your hand again (etc etc). There was a smattering of applause when I did manage to get the muffin under control. I was tempted to bow, but remembered the glass of liquid in my other hand in time.
TRAVELING OBSERVATIONS!
Tanks for the Memories: We drove past a sign for a military weaponry/equipment museum. We really think they missed the boat by failing to use this tag line.
Sillicoon Valley: And, the winner of noticing a good tagline or name when you see it goes to the tech/computer service company in Coon Valley. Fabulous. I think I laughed about this on and off for a half hour.
Skyline or Goldstar?: Only people who have gone to Cincinnati and had Cincinnati chili can answer this question. Without a doubt, Skyline. But, why do they call it chili? And, I eat it for the cheese.
We love cheese, really we do...: For those who grew up watching Loony Toons you might recognize this line. Tammy and I can't help but quote it when we are in Wisconsin...after purchasing FRESH (made same day) cheese curds. Ah, the squeaking!
Signs of the Times: We found it interesting that a high percentage of billboard signs on our route were not being used. Unless you count the company that rents the signs out advertising that you could use their sign.
Overheard at the Organic Farming Conference (part 1): "It sure is nice to interact with other farmers and not have to argue about spraying issues."
Overheard at the Organic Farming Conference (part 2): "I don't understand why the inspector didn't approve our application (for organic certification (we presume)). We only spray when there is a problem." (and yes, they were soon educated)
Overheard at the BPD Conference (for Social Work Educators): "I went around the block and came back here..." (imagine that)
Shifty: All we can say is this. If you are used to a manual transmission and you are stuck driving an automatic for an extended drive... you WILL frequently attempt to push in the imaginary clutch and you WILL reach for a stick shift. Even if you verbally tell yourself not to do it.
Stop that TEXTING I really MEAN IT!: This one isn't meant to be funny. Because it isn't. We encountered many drivers that had inconsistent speeds and didn't always stay in their lane. Our tendency is to take the opportunity to pass and get away from those autos at our earliest opportunity to safely do so. What was the common denominator for each of those occurrences? The driver was alone in the car and staring down at a phone or other device to read or send text messages.
Least used part of a hotel/motel room?: It has to be the closet. You're staying for one, maybe two nights. You're living out of a suitcase. And, no other place smells more like a hotel/motel than the closet.
How to get attention in a crowded room?: Walk into the room with a heavy duty chopping hoe in your hands. Works every time.
How to get attention in a less than crowded room?: Juggle the muffin in your hands in an attempt to NOT drop it. Everyone knows what I mean here...you start to drop it, but make a quick motion to catch it, but it pops up into the air and you....reach to catch it, but it bounces out of your hand again (etc etc). There was a smattering of applause when I did manage to get the muffin under control. I was tempted to bow, but remembered the glass of liquid in my other hand in time.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Alas, No More....
Varieties we will not be planting in 2011.
Arikara Yellow Dry Bean - Seed supply issue. Guess we'll have to grab a bunch next time they are available and raise our own seed.
Ireland Creek Annie's Dry Bean - Seed supply issue.
Brussels - Long Island Improved - we haven't seen the improvement we wanted. Still searching to replace Bubbles, the last Brussels sprout that was exceptional on our farm.
Cool Breeze Cucumber - this one makes Tammy very sad. It was her favorite cucumber - and after last year's production - it makes Rob very sad too. But, when the industry decides to stop offering a hybrid, you are stuck. So - you were wondering why we prefer open pollinated seed when we can get it - here's one reason. But, it is also an argument for F1 hybrids....
Dusky Eggplant - also terminated by industry.
Lacinato Kale - Perhaps this is a mistake - and if we determine that it is - we will bring it back. But, we have two kales that produce higher volumes of salable leaves. This one attracts more insect depredation, the others handle wider ranges of weather. If we don't like what happens we can order some seed for fall. This is a good reminder to everyone that terminating a variety at the farm doesn't mean we heartily dislike it. There are just realities that can cause it to be cut from the list. In this case, Dwarf Blue Scotch and Red Russian tend to make us happier and there isn't room for three in the current plans.
Eder Kohlrabi - expensive seed, didn't perform any better than other cheaper seed and didn't have outstanding taste. Good bye.
Cyklon Pepper - loses the battle to Hot Portugal and Maule's Red Hot.
Thai Hot - nice container plant. A pain for us to pick and not that many people wanting it. We'll use up our seeds to sell plants to those who want them. You can keep one alive in a pot well into December or later.
All Blue Potato - hard to pick as they tend to spread the tubers out all over the place. Skin color is similar to our soil cover -which makes it hard to see them. Production tends towards a large number of smaller potatoes. This isn't all bad, but again is an efficiency issue for us at the farm.
Kennebec Potato - sometimes you give up on a variety because it would require having to make an order with yet another seed company. If we had a decent potato year last year, we would have our own seed potato. Alas, we did not.
Boston Marrow Winter Squash - flashy, colorful and rewarding to grow. They tended to be more watery and stringy than the descriptions led us to believe they would be. Maybe it was the year(s). Maybe it was our soil. Other growers like these, but we can grow other things better on our farm.
John Baer Tomato - 6 oz round red tomatoes. They tend to produce earlier on smaller plants. Nothing at all bad to say about them, but they didn't do anything to make us want to keep them as opposed to other intermediate red tomatoes we have.
Power's Heirloom Tomato - when the seed supply disappears, you stop growing the plants. It is that simple. And, we weren't so sold on these that we will work hard to track them down.
Blondkopfchen Yellow Cherry Tomato - lots of little yellow tomatoes. They tasted fine. The plants did fine. But we just won't (or can't) spend the time required to keep them picked. If we were going to fight that battle, we'd use Lemon Drop anyway.
Velvet Red Tomato - a cherry tomato with silvery hairs on the leaves. A nice curiosity. But, the plants tended to be brittle, the tomatoes were not exception in taste and production was average. We like curious and different tomatoes, but not enough to stay on the list with the likes of Tommy Toe.
Long Tom Tomato - can't find the seed and other roma's do as well or better for us.
Arikara Yellow Dry Bean - Seed supply issue. Guess we'll have to grab a bunch next time they are available and raise our own seed.
Ireland Creek Annie's Dry Bean - Seed supply issue.
Brussels - Long Island Improved - we haven't seen the improvement we wanted. Still searching to replace Bubbles, the last Brussels sprout that was exceptional on our farm.
Cool Breeze Cucumber - this one makes Tammy very sad. It was her favorite cucumber - and after last year's production - it makes Rob very sad too. But, when the industry decides to stop offering a hybrid, you are stuck. So - you were wondering why we prefer open pollinated seed when we can get it - here's one reason. But, it is also an argument for F1 hybrids....
Dusky Eggplant - also terminated by industry.
Lacinato Kale - Perhaps this is a mistake - and if we determine that it is - we will bring it back. But, we have two kales that produce higher volumes of salable leaves. This one attracts more insect depredation, the others handle wider ranges of weather. If we don't like what happens we can order some seed for fall. This is a good reminder to everyone that terminating a variety at the farm doesn't mean we heartily dislike it. There are just realities that can cause it to be cut from the list. In this case, Dwarf Blue Scotch and Red Russian tend to make us happier and there isn't room for three in the current plans.
Eder Kohlrabi - expensive seed, didn't perform any better than other cheaper seed and didn't have outstanding taste. Good bye.
Cyklon Pepper - loses the battle to Hot Portugal and Maule's Red Hot.
Thai Hot - nice container plant. A pain for us to pick and not that many people wanting it. We'll use up our seeds to sell plants to those who want them. You can keep one alive in a pot well into December or later.
All Blue Potato - hard to pick as they tend to spread the tubers out all over the place. Skin color is similar to our soil cover -which makes it hard to see them. Production tends towards a large number of smaller potatoes. This isn't all bad, but again is an efficiency issue for us at the farm.
Kennebec Potato - sometimes you give up on a variety because it would require having to make an order with yet another seed company. If we had a decent potato year last year, we would have our own seed potato. Alas, we did not.
Boston Marrow Winter Squash - flashy, colorful and rewarding to grow. They tended to be more watery and stringy than the descriptions led us to believe they would be. Maybe it was the year(s). Maybe it was our soil. Other growers like these, but we can grow other things better on our farm.
John Baer Tomato - 6 oz round red tomatoes. They tend to produce earlier on smaller plants. Nothing at all bad to say about them, but they didn't do anything to make us want to keep them as opposed to other intermediate red tomatoes we have.
Power's Heirloom Tomato - when the seed supply disappears, you stop growing the plants. It is that simple. And, we weren't so sold on these that we will work hard to track them down.
Blondkopfchen Yellow Cherry Tomato - lots of little yellow tomatoes. They tasted fine. The plants did fine. But we just won't (or can't) spend the time required to keep them picked. If we were going to fight that battle, we'd use Lemon Drop anyway.
Velvet Red Tomato - a cherry tomato with silvery hairs on the leaves. A nice curiosity. But, the plants tended to be brittle, the tomatoes were not exception in taste and production was average. We like curious and different tomatoes, but not enough to stay on the list with the likes of Tommy Toe.
Long Tom Tomato - can't find the seed and other roma's do as well or better for us.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
An Order to Seed...
Or was that a seed to order?
The seed orders are being placed today! Always a major accomplishment.
This season, there are over 300 seeds on the seed list. Happily not all of them are in our order since we do have carryover from the prior year. We thought people might like to see what new varieties we are going to try this year.
Green Beans: Black Valentine, Painted Pony - both of these are dual purpose as they can be used as dry beans as well. So, if we can't keep up with picking the green beans, we let them dry and...there you go.
Dry Beans: Kenearly Yellow Eye. This one says it shells easy. We can hope. The problem is - we like Arikara Yellow and Ireland Creek Annie - but we can get seed for either this year.
Pole Bean: Fortex and Gold of Bacau. We've stayed away from pole beans because of the fencing issues. However, we're thinking that the increased production and ease of picking might be enough reason to overcome the trellising problems. Here's hoping the winds don't make a mockery of this trial.
Beet: Golden Detriot. We tried Burpee's Golden and had issues with germination. Touchstone Gold was consistent - Touchstone has connections int he seed industry we don't like. so, we'll do a side by side with Golden Detroit.
Broccoli - Limba - any time the description highlights taste, we are interested.
Cabbage - Early Jersey Wakefield - We had luck in the fall with Copenhagen Market. Wondering if we just need a different variety for the spring?
Eggplant - Galine. The industry has taken Dusky out of production. Dusky was our standard purple hybrid. So, an opportunity to move away from a hybrid. Galine comes with taste highlighted as well. The other eggplant we grow are well known to us, so we can afford to take the risk.
Kohlrabi - Early White Vienna. Last year we tried Eder for the extra early white kohlrabi. They didn't go any faster than the purple Kolibri, didn't hold as well and didn't compare for taste. That, and the seed was extremely expensive. So, let's try an open pollinated early.
Onion - Redwing and Whitewing. Always trying to find the onions that like us best on our farm. We can't get seed for Sierra Blanco (white onion) but will get plants. If Whitewing does well enough, we'll move to it - much less expensive for the farm to grow. Redwing will compare with Ruby Ring.
Bunching Onions - Yellow Borretana and Guardsman - let's try them and see what they do for us. The key on our farm might be in shorter season onions to provide us flexibility if weather is difficult on one end or the other.
Peas - Blizzard, Golden Sweet, Alderman - Blizzard is supposed to be easier to pick than Oregon Sugar Pod II -but it had better taste good. so, we'll run a trial against OSPII. Alderman is a shell pea that gets very tall and is highly productive. See our arguments about pole beans. If we conquer the trellising, we may appreciate the relative ease of picking. Golden Sweet? We just liked how it sounded.
Potato - Purple Majesty, Rio Grande - The first replaces All Blue. All Blue was nice and reliable. But, a horrible pain to dig - and didn't always give us very big potatoes. Purple Majesty is a shorter season and bulks up faster. Rio Grande is a russet and replaces Kennebec. We have always grown Kennebec but our supplier does not carry it. If we'd had a decent year we would have kept our own seed. But, when a crop fails, it fails.
Radish - Misato Rose, Hailstone - Misato Rose may also be known as Red Meat - a fall radish that will be as big as a turnip. Our friends at Scattergood sold us on trying it. Hailstone will attempt to replace Philadelphia White Box (unavailable seed two years running).
Winter Squash - Uncle David's Dakota Dessert - fabulous name - almost enough to entice a trial. But, the fact that it is a buttercup style squash *and* it has other grower testimonials was enough to earn it a try on the farm. It runs in tandem with Burgess Buttercup this season.
Tomato - Hartman's Yellow Gooseberry, Topaz, Violet Jasper - we continue to look for the yellow heirloom cherry tomato that doesn't readily split and is easy to pick *and* that meets our taste requirements. Several meet the latter condition including Lemon Drop. Topaz and Violet Jasper are akin to Red Zebra and Green Zebra. These were popular with our CSA last season, so we are adding more colors of the rainbow to these salad sized tomatoes. No, we will not drop the Zebra's - we like them.
Summer Squash - Superpik - our prior straightneck yellow was Multipik -which is no longer available. This is reported to be its replacement.
The seed orders are being placed today! Always a major accomplishment.
This season, there are over 300 seeds on the seed list. Happily not all of them are in our order since we do have carryover from the prior year. We thought people might like to see what new varieties we are going to try this year.
Green Beans: Black Valentine, Painted Pony - both of these are dual purpose as they can be used as dry beans as well. So, if we can't keep up with picking the green beans, we let them dry and...there you go.
Dry Beans: Kenearly Yellow Eye. This one says it shells easy. We can hope. The problem is - we like Arikara Yellow and Ireland Creek Annie - but we can get seed for either this year.
Pole Bean: Fortex and Gold of Bacau. We've stayed away from pole beans because of the fencing issues. However, we're thinking that the increased production and ease of picking might be enough reason to overcome the trellising problems. Here's hoping the winds don't make a mockery of this trial.
Beet: Golden Detriot. We tried Burpee's Golden and had issues with germination. Touchstone Gold was consistent - Touchstone has connections int he seed industry we don't like. so, we'll do a side by side with Golden Detroit.
Broccoli - Limba - any time the description highlights taste, we are interested.
Cabbage - Early Jersey Wakefield - We had luck in the fall with Copenhagen Market. Wondering if we just need a different variety for the spring?
Eggplant - Galine. The industry has taken Dusky out of production. Dusky was our standard purple hybrid. So, an opportunity to move away from a hybrid. Galine comes with taste highlighted as well. The other eggplant we grow are well known to us, so we can afford to take the risk.
Kohlrabi - Early White Vienna. Last year we tried Eder for the extra early white kohlrabi. They didn't go any faster than the purple Kolibri, didn't hold as well and didn't compare for taste. That, and the seed was extremely expensive. So, let's try an open pollinated early.
Onion - Redwing and Whitewing. Always trying to find the onions that like us best on our farm. We can't get seed for Sierra Blanco (white onion) but will get plants. If Whitewing does well enough, we'll move to it - much less expensive for the farm to grow. Redwing will compare with Ruby Ring.
Bunching Onions - Yellow Borretana and Guardsman - let's try them and see what they do for us. The key on our farm might be in shorter season onions to provide us flexibility if weather is difficult on one end or the other.
Peas - Blizzard, Golden Sweet, Alderman - Blizzard is supposed to be easier to pick than Oregon Sugar Pod II -but it had better taste good. so, we'll run a trial against OSPII. Alderman is a shell pea that gets very tall and is highly productive. See our arguments about pole beans. If we conquer the trellising, we may appreciate the relative ease of picking. Golden Sweet? We just liked how it sounded.
Potato - Purple Majesty, Rio Grande - The first replaces All Blue. All Blue was nice and reliable. But, a horrible pain to dig - and didn't always give us very big potatoes. Purple Majesty is a shorter season and bulks up faster. Rio Grande is a russet and replaces Kennebec. We have always grown Kennebec but our supplier does not carry it. If we'd had a decent year we would have kept our own seed. But, when a crop fails, it fails.
Radish - Misato Rose, Hailstone - Misato Rose may also be known as Red Meat - a fall radish that will be as big as a turnip. Our friends at Scattergood sold us on trying it. Hailstone will attempt to replace Philadelphia White Box (unavailable seed two years running).
Winter Squash - Uncle David's Dakota Dessert - fabulous name - almost enough to entice a trial. But, the fact that it is a buttercup style squash *and* it has other grower testimonials was enough to earn it a try on the farm. It runs in tandem with Burgess Buttercup this season.
Tomato - Hartman's Yellow Gooseberry, Topaz, Violet Jasper - we continue to look for the yellow heirloom cherry tomato that doesn't readily split and is easy to pick *and* that meets our taste requirements. Several meet the latter condition including Lemon Drop. Topaz and Violet Jasper are akin to Red Zebra and Green Zebra. These were popular with our CSA last season, so we are adding more colors of the rainbow to these salad sized tomatoes. No, we will not drop the Zebra's - we like them.
Summer Squash - Superpik - our prior straightneck yellow was Multipik -which is no longer available. This is reported to be its replacement.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Fun with Music
We had the opportunity to see String Fever in concert last night and enjoyed it very much.
Since both of us have played cello, it may have had more initial interest to us than others. But, the music selection was widely accessible - with arrangements of orchestral works, movie themes and popular music. Making it all the more interesting were the electric string instruments. The five string cello looks like alot of fun.
If you are curious, take the link above to go to their page. Then, go to their videos link and at least watch their rendition of Bolero.
Since both of us have played cello, it may have had more initial interest to us than others. But, the music selection was widely accessible - with arrangements of orchestral works, movie themes and popular music. Making it all the more interesting were the electric string instruments. The five string cello looks like alot of fun.
If you are curious, take the link above to go to their page. Then, go to their videos link and at least watch their rendition of Bolero.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Vocubu....?
It's time for more GFF terminology! YAY!
For our first blog batch of terms, go here.
Mentor crop - often we plant successions of a crop (to spread out the harvest). The planting that was put in earlier is often our 'mentor crop' if it is doing well. When the new succession pokes their little heads up out of the ground, we point to the earlier crop and say, "See - that's what YOU'RE supposed to do."
Breezy - Do you wear a hat? Well, now you don't.
Scout - the early tomatoes that often precede the main crop by 2-4 weeks. Most tomato varieties in our fields will set a couple of tomatoes early and ripen then well before the main crop. We figure they are checking out our farm before encouraging the rest to grow and ripen.
Door Warden - one to three of our turkeys tend to stand (or sit) in the door area of their shelter as a guard until we come to close the door at night.
Windy - That's when you close building doors so things don't blow OUT of the buildings.
Honeydew list - the list of melons we intend to grow in the coming year.
High Wind Warning - Look out! Wasn't that the neighbor's cow blowing by?
Dumb Truck - ok, it's a new term - and we learned it from an advertisement in a free farm magazine that lists such things for sale. There is evidently a unique Dumb Truck (only 1) for sale. Funny that it looks like what most people would call a Dump Truck. From now on, it is a Dumb Truck!
Nibster - Both of the little feline type creatures that live in our house are nibsters. Nibster is what you get if you shift your right hand to the left one spot (as a touch typest). See if you can figure it out.
Misplaced - Things that were not properly anchored or put away prior to a period of wind.
High Speed Internet - Oh, wait. That one belongs in our myth list on the farm. Put it between "weed-free" and "on-schedule".
For our first blog batch of terms, go here.
Mentor crop - often we plant successions of a crop (to spread out the harvest). The planting that was put in earlier is often our 'mentor crop' if it is doing well. When the new succession pokes their little heads up out of the ground, we point to the earlier crop and say, "See - that's what YOU'RE supposed to do."
Breezy - Do you wear a hat? Well, now you don't.
Scout - the early tomatoes that often precede the main crop by 2-4 weeks. Most tomato varieties in our fields will set a couple of tomatoes early and ripen then well before the main crop. We figure they are checking out our farm before encouraging the rest to grow and ripen.
Door Warden - one to three of our turkeys tend to stand (or sit) in the door area of their shelter as a guard until we come to close the door at night.
Windy - That's when you close building doors so things don't blow OUT of the buildings.
Honeydew list - the list of melons we intend to grow in the coming year.
High Wind Warning - Look out! Wasn't that the neighbor's cow blowing by?
Dumb Truck - ok, it's a new term - and we learned it from an advertisement in a free farm magazine that lists such things for sale. There is evidently a unique Dumb Truck (only 1) for sale. Funny that it looks like what most people would call a Dump Truck. From now on, it is a Dumb Truck!
Nibster - Both of the little feline type creatures that live in our house are nibsters. Nibster is what you get if you shift your right hand to the left one spot (as a touch typest). See if you can figure it out.
Misplaced - Things that were not properly anchored or put away prior to a period of wind.
High Speed Internet - Oh, wait. That one belongs in our myth list on the farm. Put it between "weed-free" and "on-schedule".
Monday, February 7, 2011
There's Snow Business Like...
We've had a few nice and snowy Winters the last couple of years. But, this year, I was commenting to Tammy that the snow piles by the side of the drive are looking a bit more like some of the piles we saw when we lived in Minnesota than they have in prior years. That, of course, got me to thinking about various snow related events that amused me (for some reason).
- We lived in Duluth for one Winter. Sometimes, the lake effect snow can result in very light flakes that accumulate rapidly. One such snow was coming down earlier in the season. We thought we'd go out and shovel as it came down. We shoveled towards the road and stopped for a second, looking back to admire our work. The problem? We could see very little evidence that we had done *any* shoveling. hmmmm.
- That same snow - as we stood for a couple of minutes contemplating hard work that had accomplished little - Tammy noticed that 2 inches of fresh snow piled up on the bill on my cap as we talked.
- Of course, not people to let an opportunity like this go by - we jumped into the snow. Unfortunately, we had a hard time getting out. The snow was so light and fluffy - we couldn't easily find any purchase to get back out! I believe our solution was to roll back towards the driveway where it was not as deep. See - our shoveling DID do something.
- There were record snows in SW Minnesota while we lived there. As a result the piles on the side of the drive were sizable. Unfortunately, Rob had surgery on a wrist during the peak of that Winter. Upon coming home from surgery, we found that the drive was now only wide enough to get out of one side of the car. Rob got to squirm on his back from one side of the car to the other side - and then out onto the snowy driveway. This is how you learn how turtles feel when you tip them over onto their shell.
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