VAAFM: Grateful for Veterans and Farmers

Secretary Tebbetts Op-Ed: Grateful for Veterans & Farmers

Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food & Markets As the seasons begin to change once again and we begin to approach the holidays, Secretary Anson Tebbetts took some time to consider this month of transition and the many reasons to pause, reflect, and give thanks for our Veteran's and Agricultural community;

"We honor our community and the many ways that our fellow Vermonters contribute to our collective well-being. We are grateful for our harvest and being able to share our abundance.

As we honor Veterans on November 11, we are thinking of the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Vermont. With a mission to mobilize veterans to feed America, the Coalition has set up a robust network of a new generation of farmers and food leaders. Their work is to develop viable employment and meaningful careers through the collaboration of the farming and military communities.

This Veterans Day we also honor the Vermont National Guard. During the pandemic they provided valuable services to Vermonters, setting up health clinics and hospitals and providing critical support for food distribution. We are thankful for their ongoing help."

Continue Reading Secretary Tebbetts' Message
New Organic Reimbursements

Does your business produce or handle certified organic commodities? Or, are you transitioning your operation to organic? Your business may be eligible for financial assistance to cover expenses related to organic certification through USDA Organic and Transitional Education and Certification Program (OTECP).

These funds are available in addition to the Organic Cost Share Program. OTECP is part of USDA's broader Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative, which provides a new, broader and more equitable opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and producers.

Application Deadline: Jan. 7

Intro to the Farm Succession Planner

Farms face a variety of unique situations when planning to transfer the farm to new ownership, many of which can be overwhelming. The UVM Extension Agricultural Business specialists' goal is to support decision-making during the farm succession planning process and improve skills for farmers interested in succession planning

In the Introduction to the Farm Succession Planner, agricultural business specialists Betsy Miller and Zac Smith will introduce this decision making tool and show farmers how to use it

Webinar: Dec. 2 @ 12 p.m

Water Quality Grants

The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board's Farm and Forest Viability Program has grant funds available for on-farm capital improvement projects that have a positive impact on water quality. Eligible farmers can apply for a Water Quality Grant, which provides $5,000 to $40,000 in funding.

Virtual information sessions on the grant program and application process are being held on December 7th and January 12th. Registration information will be available on the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board website closer to the session dates.

Application Deadline: Jan. 21 @ 5 p.m.

Join experts from around the region for this round table discussion on pests affecting cool season vegetable production, including what you need to know about cutworm biology and potential control tactics for their management.

This webinar, hosted by Anna Wallingford of UNH, will feature a panel of experts from around the region and there will be plenty of time for questions regarding this and other pests affecting cool-season high tunnel production. Reach out to [email protected] with any photos or unique situations you have come across in tunnel production during the fall, winter, and spring.

Webinar: Dec. 1 @ 12 p.m.

View the VAAFM Grants Calendar
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Our website address is:
https://agriculture.vermont.gov