2004 Maine Agricultural Trades Show
MOFGA Sponsored Programs
9:15am
1. Seedlings and Starts: Care and FeedingOrganic farmer Mark Fulford will discuss tips and techniques for getting a head start on the growing season with indoor production of seedlings and starts. Topics will include growing media, container options, timing of sowings, and climate and moisture control.
2. Using the Internet for Farm Marketing and Publicity
MOFGA's webmaster Eric Rector will discuss ideas and resources for harnessing the power and reach of the Internet to help your farm find new markets and business opportunities.
10:15am
1. Organic DairyMembers of the Maine Organic Milk Producers will give testimonials and share their experiences with transitioning and managing their herds and land organically.
2. Pesticide Regulations for Organic Farmers
Gary Fish from the Board of Pesticides Control will provide an overview of pesticide use in organic systems: application techniques and considerations, record-keeping, sprayer calibration, and regulations.
11:15am
MOFGA's Annual MeetingMOFGA will hold it's Annual Meeting during the Maine Agricultural Trade Show at the August Civic Center on Tuesday, January 13th.
Hear from Executive Director Russell Libby and from committee chairs about MOFGA's activities and accomplishments in 2003 and our plans for the future. Participate in elections for MOFGA's board of directors. Network with MOFGA staff, members, and certified growers.
1:30pm
1. Organic Certification Issues UpdateAre you considering becoming certified organic? Are you mystified by the new USDA regulations? Come hear Mary Yurlina, MOFGA's Certification Services Coordinator, discuss and answer questions about the basic requirements for organic certification and the application and inspection process. She will also attempt to clarify some of the more confusing certification issues raised by the implementation of the National Organic Plan.
2. Organic Pest Control
MOFGA Technical Services Director Eric Sideman will discuss common pests of organic fruit and vegetable systems in Maine; and materials and methods for control.
He will also present efficacy data for some new and innovative products approved for use in organic systems.
2:30pm
1. MOFGA PublicationsWhat do you want to read in the MOF&G? What do you want to see on the MOFGA website? Come share feedback and ideas about MOFGA's publications with Jean English, editor of the MOF&G, and Eric Rector, MOFGA's webmaster.
2. MOFGA's New Farmer Training Programs
Interested in pursuing organic farming as a career? Want to pass on your farming wisdom to the next generation? Andrew Marshall and Rosey Guest will talk and answer questions about MOFGA's Apprenticeship and Journeyperson programs for farmers and prospective students who are interested in participating.
3:30pm
1. Organic Winter Squash ProductionWant to be eating delicious soup all winter? Want to extend the income generating potential of your farm past the growing season? Grow winter squash! All aspects of organic winter squash production, from variety selection to pest control to harvest and storage techniques, will be discussed.
2. Food Safety for Value-Added Businesses
Russ Hazen, University of Maine Food Science specialist, will discuss food safety concerns relevant to on-farm and small-scale processors; and talk about applicable state and federal rules and regulations that processors must comply with.