Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets Interest in growing specialty mushrooms, such as oyster, shiitake, and lion’s mane, is on the rise. With this increasing popularity, there also comes a need for resources on how to maintain crop quality while minimizing food safety risks.
A recent article from the Vermont Produce Program shares information and resources related to produce safety for all mushroom growers.
Specialty mushroom growers should be aware that while they don’t require a license from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets to begin growing, mushroom operations are considered “produce farms” that may need to comply with federal food safety standards called the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule.
If growers are unsure how the Produce Safety Rule applies to their operation, they can contact the Vermont Produce Program at [email protected].
Mid-season Corn Evaluation Event
Join a free, hands-on session about mid-season corn evaluation at CJEJ Farm in North Stratford, NH on June 27th. This event is hosted by Essex County Conservation District.
Attendees will set the agenda with whatever questions they have regarding field corn production, including: stand evaluation; weed management practices; herbicide recommendations; mid-season nitrogen assessment; and considerations for transitioning to no-till management to prevent mycotoxin issues. Attendees from both New Hampshire and Vermont are welcome.
For more information, contact [email protected].
Learn More & Register
New Online Pick-Your-Own Farm Directory
The Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association recently launched an online pick-your-own farm directory that lets customers search by crop and location to find what they are looking for.
The directory listings describe what farms have to offer and when these crops are available, along with hours of operation. Farmers are responsible for writing and updating their descriptions.
To be listed in the directory, farms must be members of the Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association, which has a sliding scale membership fee.
Learn More
Join on a free workshop about soil management practices at Walker Farm in East Dummerston, VT, on July 18th. This event is hosted by Windham County Natural Resource Conservation District.
Participants will learn about high tunnel maintenance, how to manage soil health in high tunnels and funding opportunities available for conservation practices. Additionally, participants are invited to bring a soil sample for an on-the-spot soil analysis to test for heavy metals.
For more information, contact [email protected].
UVM Extension Annual Crops & Soils Field Day
Join UVM Extension for their in-person, on-farm annual Crops & Soils Field Day at Borderview Research Farm on July 25th.
The day will include tours of research trials including perennial grasses, soybeans, small grains, hemp, hops, and other crops. Lunch is included and certified crop adviser and water quality education credits are available.
Registration is free for farmers and $25 for non-farmers. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required.
Upcoming Dates and Deadlines
August
8/8 - Dairy Processor Modernization Grant deadline
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Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
116 State St. Montpelier, VT 05620
https://agriculture.vermont.gov