New Mexico Organic Farming Conferencetradition.nmda.nmsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Organic... · New Mexico Organic Farming Conference • 2018 5 ... Abe Froese Young: Nery Martinez

New Mexico Organic Farming Conference

2018

Friday, February 16& Saturday, February 17

MARRIOTT ALBUQUERQUE PYRAMID NORTH ALBUQUERQUE, NM

2 New Mexico Organic Farming Conference • 2018

The NM Organic Farming Conference will take place atThe Marriott Pyramid North

5151 San Francisco Road, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109

HOTEL RESERVATION INFORMATIONYou must reserve your room by January 30 to get the special conference rate of $93 per room.

Please print your conference tickets and show to front desk to show proof of attendance so that you are not charged the parking fee by the hotel. These rooms go quickly, please make your reservations soon.

Call the Marriot Pyramid: 1-800-228-9290 or (505) 821-3333The direct link is available at https://tinyurl.com/2018NMOFC or at www.nmofc.org

REGISTRATIONPlease note: Registration is online for 2018

If you need help, please call Sage Faulkner at (505) 490-2822. https://tinyurl.com/2018NMOFC

Both Days Registration with lunch is $110.00Single Day Registration is $70.00

Lunch tickets are included for the first 650 participants to register. School Rates for Student Groups available,

please email [email protected] for information.

New Mexico Organic Farming Conference • 2018 3

2018 SCHEDULEThursday February 155:00pm – 7:00pm Exhibitor setup and volunteer meeting Friday February 167:00am Registration open Coffee/tea and morning snack station Exhibitors open

8:00am - 5:00pm Resource Room: Tampico; *Sign up for Farmer Interviews, NM Farmers Marketing Association *Dr. Flynn - water testing *Yvonne Diaz - workbooks.

8:30am - 10:00am Breakout Sessions group 1 (Soils Analysis: Las Cruces/Santa Fe, Pollinators: Coronado/Cozumel, Livestock Disease: Taos, Root Crops: Cancun, Seeds: Kokopelli, Digital Marketing: Yucatán)

10:30am - 12:00pm Breakout Sessions group 2 (Small Grains Trial: Kokopelli, Managing New Employees: Taos, NRCS Programs: Las Cruces/Santa Fe, Certification Support Navigating Organic Resources: Coronado/Cozumel, Drip Irrigation Panel: Cancun, Myciorrhizal Fungi: Yucutan)

12:00pm - 1:30pm Lunch on your own

1:00pm Demonstrations (Hops equipment, Lombard, Thomas & LaShell)

1:30pm - 3:00pm Breakout Sessions group 3 (Worker Safety: Coronado/Cozumel, Hoop House Construction: Yucatan, FSMA/Produce Safety Rule: Las Cruces/Santa Fe, Hay: Cancun, Meat/Specialty Processing: Taos, Enterprise Analysis: Kokopelli)

3:00pm Afternoon tea and snack station

3:30pm - 5:00pm Breakout Sessions group 4 (Pruning: Las Cruces/Santa Fe, Water Harvesting: Kokopelli, Carbon Farming: Cancun, Advanced Compost: Coronado/Cozumel, Impact of Importing Organic: Taos, Pastured Poultry: Yucatan)

6:00pm - 8:00pm Career Connection & Winter Mixer, Quivira New Agrarian Program

Saturday February 177:00am Registration

7:00am Coffee/tea and morning snack station. Exhibitors open

8:00am – 12:00pm Resource Room: Tampico, Sign up for Farmer Interviews, NM Farmers Marketing Association

8:00am - 9:30am Breakout Sessions group 5 (Regenerating Diversity of Life in Soils: Yucatan, Building a Greenhouse: Coronado/Cozumel, Grafting Tomatoes: Cancun, Seed Saving: Kokopelli, Diversification at Full Belly Farm: Las Cruces/Santa Fe, Intro to Compost: Taos)

9:45am - 11:15am Breakout Sessions group 6 (Berry/Small Fruit: Yucatan, Cover Crops: Cancun, Why Every Farmer Needs a Microscope: Coronado/Cozumel, Pueblo Agriculture: Kokopelli, American Grown/Slow Flower movement: Las Cruces/ Santa Fe, Classroom Ag: Taos)

12:00pm - 2:00pm Welcome New Mexico Local & Organic Luncheon Steve Ela, Ela Family Farms, Keynote Address Recognition and Awards

2:15pm - 4:00pm Networking Sessions (Livestock: Coronado/Cozumel, School Agriculture/ Taos, Crops: Las Cruces/Santa Fe, Native American: Kokopelli)

4:00pm End of NMOFC 2018, Thank You for joining us!


Steve Ela is a partner and manages Ela Family Farms and Silver Spruce Orchards - a one-hundred acre, organic, family fruit farm in Hotchkiss, Colorado. He is a fourth generation grower – his family has operated orchards in western Colorado for over 100 years. Current crops include peaches, apples, pears, sweet cherries, plums, and heirloom tomatoes. He began the transition to organic production in 1994 and the farm is currently 100% certified organic. His family markets fruit via farmers markets, wholesale to specialty food stores, Whole Foods Markets, CSA’s, and processed products. They currently process jams, fruit butters, apple sauces, cider, and dried fruit.

Steve received B.S. degrees in biology and environmental geology from Beloit College in 1985 and a M.S. in Soil Science and a minor in Water Resources from the University of Minnesota in 1990. He has managed the family farm since then. He serves on the National Organic Standards Board, Board of Directors of the Valley Organic Growers Association (Past-President), Rogers Mesa Fruit Company, Leroux Creek Water Users Association, Rogers Mesa Domestic Water Company (Vice-President), the Allen Mesa Ditch Company, and the advisory board for the Western Integrated Pest Management Center. He has served on the Board of Directors and was President of the Organic Farming

Research Foundation (2001-2011, President for five years), is past-president of the Western Colorado Horticultural Society, and served on the

boards of the Colorado Agriculture Commission, Colorado Specialty Crops Advisory Council, Colorado

Food Systems Advisory Council, Colorado Apple Administrative Committee, Ellington Ditch, North Fork

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

See KEYNOTE SPEAKER continued on page 16


2003 Friend of Organic Agriculture:

Bruce Gollub and Leah Morton

2004 Friend of Organic Agriculture: Connie Falk

2006Friend of Organic Agriculture: Ron Walser

Farmer of the Year: Sharlene Grunerud and Michael Alexander

2007Friend of Organic Agriculture: Sarah Grant

Educator of the Year: Carol SutherlandFarmer of the Year:

Molly and Antonio ManzanaresGood Earth Award: Betty and Walt Lea

2008Friend of Organic Agriculture: Marsha Mason,

Del Jimenez, Craig MapelEducator of the Year: Gordon TooleyFarmer of the Year: Sally HarperGood Earth Award: Johnny Lieb

2009 Friend of Organic Agriculture: La Montanita Coop,

Le Adams, Joanie Quinn Educator of the Year: Les Crowder

Farmer of the Year: Norma and Dosi AlvarezGood Earth Award: Trenton Wann and Barbara Hawn

2010Friend of Organic Agriculture: Brett Bakker

Educator of the Year: Ron GodinFarmer of the Year: Nancy Coonridge

Good Earth Award: Nolina Bryant

2011 Friend of Organic Agriculture: Miley Gonzales

Educator of the Year: Nancy FloresFarmer of the Year: Don Bustos

Good Earth Award: Christina and Tomas Apodaca

2012 Friend of Organic Agriculture: Silver City

Food Co-op Educator of the Year: Tess GrasswitzFarmer of the Year: Sage and Shane Faulkner

Good Earth Award: Steve Heil

2013Friend of Organic Agriculture: Monte Skarsgard

Educator of the Year: John Idowu, Kulbhushan Grover, Mark Uchanski

Farmer of the Year: Loretta and David FresquezGood Earth Award: Amanda & Eli Burgione

2014Friend of Organic Agriculture: Cid Backer,

Patrick TorresEducator of the Year: Robin Seydel

Farmer of the Year: Heidi EleftheriouGood Earth Award: Lorenzo Candelaria

Young Farmer: Mike DeSmet

2015Friend of Organic Agriculture:

Colleen & Fred HinkerEducator of the Year: Deb Ingersoll

Farmer of the Year: Johnny McMullinGood Earth Award:Mesa Ruiz

Young Farmer of the Year: Brittanie Lynch & Derek Jones

2016Friend of Organic Agriculture: Michael DiazFarmer of the Year: Mary and Tom Dixon

Educator: Joran ViersGood Earth: Abe Froese Young: Nery Martinez

2017Friend of Organic Agriculture:

Trudi and John KretsingerFarmer of the Year: Jamie and Katy Kulesa

Educator: Joseph AlfaroGood Earth: Deborah Snyder and Mark NelsonYoung Farmers: Joseph and Melissa Marcoline

CONFERENCE AWARDEES


Sage Faulkner, NMOFC, Joseph Alfara, Educator of the Year award

Young Farmers of the Year, Joseph and Melissa Marcoline, Walking Trout Farm, with sponsors, Fred Porter, Farm Bureau Insurance, Chad Smith, CEO NM Farm and Livestock Bureau, Craig Ogden, President, NM Farm and Livestock Bureau

Deborah Snyder and Mark Nelson of Synergia Organic Fruit, the Good Earth award

Jamie and Katy Kulesa, Sage Faulkner, NMOFC, Farmer of the Year award

Trudi and John Kretsingner, Sage Faulkner, NMOFC, Friend of Organic Agriculture award

AWARDS


SESSIONSFriday, February 16 8:30am – 10:00am

CANCUN Root Vegetable Crops: Selection, Production, and Harvest Beginner/Intermediate Learn best production practices from planting techniques to harvest for favorite, traditional root crops, as well as an introduction to some new and unusual crop options for producers in the southwest. Dr. Stephanie Walker has served as Extension Vegetable Specialist in the Extension Plant Sciences Dept. at NMSU since 2004 where she concentrates on providing assistance to commercial vegetable growers and related industries in enhancing sustainability and profitability of vegetable production in New Mexico. She has also served as the Western SARE Professional Development Coordinator or Co-coordinator for New Mexico since 2004.

CORONADO/COZUMEL Promoting Pollinators on the Farm Beginner/ Intermediate What you can do on your farm to increase natural pollinator populations. Creating and preserving habitat, plantings, farm management strategies, and increasing ecosystem benefits. This talk will touch on many kinds of pollinators and their needs, including native bees, honeybees, wasps, flies, butterflies, moths, birds and more! Jasmine Cecelic-- Farmer/Owner of Wildhood Farm, Degree in Ecology from UNM, On-farm biodiversity specialist.

KOKOPELLI Certified Organic, Utility Patented, Non-hybrid Seeds.Beginning and Advanced What growers need to know about the utility patented varieties starting to populate the nation’s better organic seed catalogs. Short history of plant patenting, and difference between The Plant Variety Protection Act passed in 1970 and the newer, more restrictive utility patents which prohibit growers for the first time from actually saving any of their own seeds. Lists of certified organic, utility patented varieties available now in U.S. seed catalogs will be distributed. The presentation will end with a discussion about individual and regional strategies to assure long-term access to superior traits along with the regional adaptation that only comes from local seed saving. Bill McDorman, Executive Director, Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Former Executive Director, Native Seeds/SEARCH

LAS CRUCES/SANTA FE Can NMSU’s Soil and Irrigation Water Test Interpretation Workbooks Work for You?

This session will demonstrate NMSU ACES Soil Test and water interpretation Workbooks (Excel). Participants should review NMSU ACES Circular 676 “Interpreting SoiI Tests: Unlock the Secrets of Your Soil.” The workbooks utilize known mineralization potentials of various organic amendments to estimate application rates and warn of excessive nutrient concentrations. The workbook assists the user in interpreting soil tests that follow NMSU’s recommended procedures including soil P, salinity, SAR, and use the saturated paste method for salinity. An Irrigation water interpretation workbook can also be used to determine how good (or bad) your water quality may be and will calculate leaching fractions based on selected crops. Bring a water sample for some quick tests! [A table will be set up during the conference to have further interaction with the workbooks and the authors].

Dr. Robert Flynn, NMSU Interim Superintendent, Extension Agronomist and NMSU Graduate student Yvonne Diaz


SESSIONS

TAOS Livestock Mortality Investigations, An Interactive DiscussionIntermediate Detailed visual aids to assist livestock producers in identification of common livestock diseases. For anyone involved in animal husbandry, this will be an educational interactive session you won’t want to miss. Dr. Tim Hanosh, DVM, Director of Veterinary Diagnostic Services Laboratory

YUCATAN Digital Marketing for Farmers and Ranchers #LocalFoodConnects. You know it’s important to connect with your customers whether they are farmers’ market or farm stand shoppers, restaurant chefs or school food service buyers. This session presented by the New Mexico Farmers’ Marketing Association (NMFMA), will help you learn how to create and maintain customer loyalty through social media, including how you can personalize the NMFMA’s new 2018 #LocalFoodConnects digital marketing campaign. Denise Miller is the Executive Director of New Mexico Farmers’ Marketing Association.

Friday, February 16 10:30am – noon

CANCUN Irrigation in the Semi-Arid Southwest, a panel Join Joseph Marcoline, Walking Trout Farm, Steven Guldan, Superintendent at NMSU Sustainable Agricultural Science Center at Alcalde, Billy Kniffin, Texas Agrilife Extension Service, farmer and consultant, and Miguel Santistevan, New Mexico Acequia Association Consultant, as they discuss key irrigation concepts, concerns and changes.

CORONADO/COZUMELNavigating Organic Resources: Preparing for Becoming Certified USDA OrganicBeginning The USDA NIFA NMSU Cooperative Extension Service’s Organic Transition Grant assisted small growers in becoming familiar with what it takes to become certified organic in 2017. This session introduces Navigating Organic Resources: Organic System Plan Resource Manual; which assists beginning farmers considering becoming certified by highlighting lessons learned, shining light on common myths and getting you started in the right direction in terms of appropriate amendments, seed and plant stock selection, things to consider at harvest and packing and more. [The author will be available at a resource table during the conference] Dr. Paul H. Gutierrez, NMSU Extension SpecialistYvonne Diaz, Beginning Farmer & NMSU graduate student pursuing a Masters in Agricultural & Extension Education


SESSIONSKOKOPELLIRocky Mountain Heritage Grain TrialsBeginning and Advanced Locally grown grains are the missing component in many regional food systems. The Rocky Mountain Heritage Grain Trials Project aims to revive the production, use, and cultural experience of locally grown heritage grains in our region’s communities. The program now includes 60 growers testing and increasing seeds for 137 varieties of major and minor grains. The presentation will include an overview of how the program is structured and what we have learned so far. Bill McDorman, Executive Director, Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance. Lee-Ann Hill, Special Programs Director, Rock Mountain Seed Alliance

LAS CRUCES/SANTA FE Natural Resources Conservation Service-Build Partnerships Today, Benefit Tomorrow NRCS staff will outline how to obtain technical assistance, eligibility requirements and the application process in order to provide assistance relating to ways you may further enhance the viability of your farming operation. NRCS has a staff of specialists and conservation planners that can help to provide the technical assistance and financial assistance needed to take the science and art of farming one step further. Kristin Graham Chavez, Assistant State Conservationist Programs, NRCS New MexicoKevin Branum, State Agronomist, NRCS New Mexico

TAOSManaging New Employees or ApprenticesAdvanced Farmers and ranchers wanting to improve management of employees, apprentices or volunteers will leave this session with systems to improve workflow, communication, training and more. The format will mix stories and handouts to set up systems with discussions of best practices and challenges. Monica Pless is the New Agrarian Program Coordinator for the Quivira Coalition. Monica has worked on diversified farms since 2004 supervising employees, apprentices, students and volunteers. From 2014 through 2016 she managed EarthDance Organic Farm School, supervising 35 part-time interns every year on an organic produce, fruit and poultry operation.

YUCATAN Mycorrhizal Fungi, a Multi-Purpose Enabler for Organic GrowersBeginner Mycorrhizal fungi inhabit the roots of ~ 90% of the plants that have been studied. Depending on the fungal species, the fungi may deliver phosphorus, nitrogen, calcium and/or many other micronutrients to plant partners. Without mycorrhizal fungi, plants maybe weak and have poor immunity against predators in the soil. By encouraging mycorrhizal fungi to partner with domesticated plants, growers may substitute the mycorrhizae partnership for inorganic fertilizers, mineral supplements, herbicides and pesticides, many of which are expensive and are often not allowed in organic operations. Vickie Peck, Ph.D. is from Placitas, NM and is passionate about healthy soils!

Friday, February 16 1:30pm-3:00pm

CANCUN Hay Production Join longtime organic farmer, John Salazar, as he talks about the economics and important production factors to consider in organic hay farming. Former Commissioner of the Colorado Department of Agriculture and longtime public servant, John is a fifth generation rancher from the San Luis Valley where he farms today with family members at Salazar Organic Ranches.


SESSIONSCORONADO/COZUMEL Protecting Farm WorkersBeginner Join Stephen Baca and Nathan Abrahamson in this session as they introduce the basic structure and requirements of the Worker Protection Standard. Integrated Pest Management promotes the use of multiple tactics to control a pest, when based on a holistic knowledge of the problem and a cost-benefit analysis, including the use of a pesticides. Sometimes picking tomato horn worms off by hand is no longer possible and a grower must resort to alternative methods. Join us to learn how the Worker Protection Standard can reduce pesticide exposure risks and how the industry is adjusting to the new requirements. Steve Baca, Inspector Supervisor with NMDA pesticide compliance for 17 years, New Mexico farmer and rancher, BS in Biology from UNM.Nathan Abrahamson, Inspector Senior, with NMDA Pesticide Compliance for 9 years, BS in Biology, MS Biology UNM

KOKOPELLI Enterprise Analysis for Fun & ProfitIntermediate Want to learn an easy way to determine which of your enterprises will create the most profit for your farm? This session will be an interactive session on learning how to use the Gross Profit Analysis test to do an enterprise analysis for your farm. Crops, livestock, agro-tourism! You name it, we’ll analyze it. Bring your numbers and questions! Don’t know your numbers? You’ll learn from your participants and the examples and templates that will be provided. The best time to know your cost of production and potential for profit is before you jump into an enterprise. The second best time is when you are engaged in that enterprise. If you are not happy with the profit you are earning, come to this session. Ann Adams has worked in the nonprofit world for almost 20 years, creating and directing national programs, collaborating with over 100 non-profit and government entities to create positive impact among producers and land stewards. Ann has been a Holistic Management Certified Educator since 1998 and has practiced and taught Holistic Management® in multiple capacities for 20 years. Ann raises goats and chickens on a homestead in the Manzano Mountains southeast of Albuquerque, New Mexico. In 2015 she was awarded the Quivira Coalition’s Leadership in Conservation Award.

LAS CRUCES/SANTA FE Understanding the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and the Produce Safety RuleIntermediate In this breakout session we will discuss what FSMA is and how it will be integrated into Agriculture, the components which make up the Food Safety Modernization Act, and public health concerns. We will also discuss the Produce Safety Rule, educational resources that are available, food safety plan development and offer a Q&A session. Mathew Gaskins is the Program Specialist at NMDA for the Produce Safety Division. Mathew is a longtime New Mexican who has a background in business, economics and agriculture. He is passionate about agriculture, he also has a deep understanding and appreciation of the NM farming culture. Mathews experience has allowed him to work with some of the largest produce growers and manufacturers in the country.

TAOSThe Opportunities and Challenges of Small Scale Meat Production and Processing Beginner Lucas will discuss USDA regulations and economics of small-scale meat processing. He built a facility from the ground up, and will share his unique experience in this interesting session. Lucas Salazar, Owner/General Manager of Salazar Meats, B.A. Social and Behavioral Sciences & M.S. Teaching, 6th Generation Farmer/Rancher, currently managing free-roaming hogs and a USDA inspected value-added meat production facility. Completed 7th season as a regular at Taos Farmers Market.


SESSIONSYUCATANBuilding Hoop Houses Del Jimenez, Agriculture Specialist, originally began teaching how to build hoop houses and high tunnels as a way to help local farmers prolong the growing season with low-cost materials that could be found at a nearby hardware store. He also wanted the structures to be as low maintenance as possible. Del Jimenez is a College Assistant Professor and an Agricultural Specialist working in the areas of livestock programs, agronomic crops, horticulture projects and construction projects at NMSU Sustainable Agricultural Science Center at Alcalde.

Friday, February 16 3:30pm - 5:00pm

CANCUNCarbon Farming Methods Methods including cover crop usage and roll down weed control in row crop systems. Ongoing experiments with covers and the strategies for incorporating them into vegetable systems. Paul Muller, Full Belly Farm partner, where they have strived to evolve a farm system that would serve as a healthy alternative to the current farm models. As partners in Full Belly Farm, a 450-acre diversified organic farm, they have helped create a farm focused on local/regional marketing; diverse cropping patterns; ecological health and diversity; Soil building; Carbon sequestration through cover crop management; innovative market strategies; growing new farmers through internships and new farm enterprises; and fostering vibrancy and beauty.

CORONADO/COZUMEL Advanced CompostingIf it Was Ever Once Alive, it Can Be CompostedAdvanced Presentation will cover difficult to compost materials such as food waste and animal mortality. Other topics will include methodology, equipment and water needs, as well as compost utilization. Because every person has differing site conditions and resources, questions from the audience is encouraged. James Brooks, founder and president of Soilutions, Inc., has provided consultation, design and installation services for soil and water conservation and compost products for over 20 years. He is past chair of the New Mexico Organic Recycling Organization and is former chair of the Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District and past president of the New Mexico Organic Growers Association. Currently, James is an instructor for the New Mexico Environment Department, where he teaches the New Mexico Compost Facility Operator Certification course.

KOKOPELLI Harvesting Rainwater - Liquid GoldAdvanced This rainwater harvesting session will be the most advanced taught at this conference. Harvesting rainwater in a rain barrel is simple but harvesting from larger roofs and containers requires a host of requirements to make sure water reaches the storage container, maintains quality and can be used efficiently and effectively. Calculating roof, conveyance, pre and post filtration, storage, pumping, friction and irrigation pressure will be discussed and problems worked in this session. Also greenhouse, in-home use will be discussed along with rainwater for irrigation and livestock use. Billy Kniffen, Texas Agrilife Extension Service 28 years, semi retired working part time as a water resource associate. Educational instructor and past vice president and educational coordinator of the American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (ARCSA) and currently working with international efforts. Advisor to Abilene Christian University Agricultural and Environmental Science Department and owns and operate a small sustainable cattle, fruit and vegetable and pecan farm. Recipient of TAMU Board of Directors Fellow Service Award, Texas Section Society of Range Management Lifetime Achievement Award, ACU Ag Alumni Award and ARCSA Lifetime Achievement Award.


SESSIONSLAS CRUCES/SANTA FEPruning Fundamentals: A Science and an Art Beginning Pruning is a science and an art. It is one of the more difficult techniques for growers to conceptualize and can seem intimidating, especially for beginners. This session will cover the reasons for pruning, when to prune, what to prune, and tools for pruning. We will discuss topics like fruit tree pruning, pruning ornamentals, root pruning and other pruning techniques with the overall goal of increasing plant health, quality, yield, and plant canopy management. Dr. Kevin Lombard is an Associate Professor of Horticulture and Superintendent of the New Mexico State University Agricultural Science Center at Farmington. He splits time with San Juan College, teaching students of horticulture the concept “that we probably kill more plants than we grow”. He has worked over 30 years professionally in landscaping and grounds maintenance, Peace Corps, estate gardening and in academia. With his collaborators, he conducts specialty horticultural crop research and is also interested in the human dimensions of horticulture.

TAOS Impact of Importing Organic Imported corn and soy have played a big role in the expansion of the organic feed and food market. We will cover the efficacy of commodity imports and their impact on farm gate prices. We will also look at an overview of the current organic market, and the role Farmer Marketing Coops can play in gaining and maintaining market traction. Martin Eddy has played the roles of organic farmer, organic inspector, and organic miller/ food processor. He currently works with organic farmers and buyers forging business partnerships through the Central Plains Organic Farmers Coop (formerly KOP, Kansas Organic Producers). He sold his first bag of organic Hard Red Winter wheat for $6 a bushel in 1976. In partnership with his wife, and in addition to farming, he milled organic flour and processed organic bakery mixes for 11 years under the Windsea label. He has seen the organic movement grow from youthful idealism to full-fledged marketing powerhouse, with all the complications that come with such a transition.

YUCATANPasturing Poultry, 50 Years in Sustainable Practice Join Tom Delehanty of Pollo Real, as he discusses poultry as a soil production system, covering backyard to full production model. Tom is a sixth-generation farmer, and the family farm is still in operation today after 170+ years in Wisconsin. Tom moved to NM inn 1994, creating Pollo Real with the objective of finding sustainable scale for pastured poultry. Tom has shared his knowledge at many international, national, and state conferences. Pollo Real was the first certified poultry operation in 1996.


SESSIONSSaturday, February 17

8:00am - 9:30am

CANCUN Increase Tomato Yields Up To 66% with GraftingAdvanced This interactive session will cover the benefits, drawbacks, and techniques of grafting tomatoes for increased yield and disease resistance. Paul will demonstrate the Japanese top grafting method, show the tools needed, and cover the post-graft plant care that is critical to success. Using these techniques, farmers can expect to achieve 96% or better grafting success. Farmers who accurately follow the complete protocol should expect increased crop yields between 20 – 66%, depending on their growing conditions and practices. This is an advanced session for farmers who want to take tomato production to the highest level. Paul Cross founded Charybda Farms in 1998. The farm has been certified organic since 1999, producing herb and vegetable starts, microgreens, floriculture, and fresh vegetables for the wholesale market. The farm has a heated greenhouse and an unheated high tunnel, plus an indoor grow space under artificial lighting. Paul lectures nationally on sustainable agriculture, at conferences including the International Organic Inspectors Association, American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association, New Mexico Organic Farming Conference, Farm to Table, New Mexico State University- Sustainable Agriculture Science Center at Alcalde, and many others.

CORONADO/COZUMEL Greenhouse Structures: More than a high tunnel Are you ready to move past that high tunnel and build a greenhouse? Choosing a structure and designing the heating and cooling systems that are best for your farm will promote your success. This session will cover basic designs and systems appropriate for New Mexico organic farmers ready to move into controlled environment agriculture. Steven E. Newman, Ph.D., A.A.F., Greenhouse Crops Extension Specialist and Professor, Colorado State University.

KOKOPELLISeed Saving in the Southwest for Farm & GardenBeginning (with some advanced information) Overview of traditional seed saving in the greater southwest; crop by crop discussion and techniques for purity & storage. Bring your questions, this session will have lots of opportunity for discussion. Brett Bakker, farmer Cuatro Puertas /Arid Land Seed Cache (former NMDA organic certifier/inspector)

LAS CRUCES/SANTA FE Integrating Ideas on a Multilayered Farm-35 years of Full Belly Experience Join Paul Muller of Full Belly Farm for an extensive discussion on diversification. In this session he will share about the farm system of Full Belly; our process of building a farm and some of the keys to diversification of farm, farm enterprises and farm

markets. Paul Muller, Full Belly Farm partner, where they have strived to evolve a farm system that would serve as a healthy alternative to the current farm models. As partners in Full Belly Farm, a 450-acre diversified organic farm, they have helped create a farm focused on local/regional marketing; diverse cropping patterns; ecological health and diversity; Soil building; Carbon sequestration through cover crop management; innovative market strategies; growing new farmers through internships and new farm enterprises; and fostering vibrancy and beauty.


SESSIONSTAOS Introduction to Composting Join Glen Schultz of Schultz Family Farms, as he introduces us to basic composting and new ideas. Glen is diverting scraps from a local organic processor to the farm, has incorporated “working pigs”, and fungal composting ideas. In addition, he will go over carbon/nitrogen rations and answer your composting questions.

Glen Schultz was raised on a ranch, but left to join the corporate race. After health issues cropped up and he realized he missed the land, he returned, purchasing a farm and working to grow better food. A self-taught organic farmer, Glen is excited to share the lessons from Schultz Family Farms. To learn more, follow Glen at [email protected].

YUCATANRegenerating the Diversity of Life in Soils- Hope for Farming and Climate! This talk will explore how ~470 million years development of evolutionary interactions, between plants and soil microbiota, have shaped this planet. It will focus on how we can recruit the biological barter that developed over this period in successional ecosystems to begin improving productivity in agroecosystems and for reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations and environmental pollution. David C. Johnson, Ph.D., Molecular Biologist, NMSU College of Engineering, Director of the Institute for Sustainable Agricultural Research at NMSU

Saturday February 17 9:45am - 11:15am

CANCUN Cover Cropping for Farm Resiliency: An update on perennial living mulch and strip tillage for agro-ecological systems Our farmland and crops must often weather strong storms, irrigation shortages, shoddy fertility rates, demoralizingly low organic matter, extreme desert temperatures and UV, among other challenges ... and still be productive. Join in this update about how living mulch, strip tillage, cover crop methods and restoration techniques can give organic Southwestern farmers some indispensable tools in our farm planning for up-coming seasons. Sean Ludden cultivates the intensive and biodiverse Nepantla Farms in the Alamedan Valley, where regionally adapted edible and medicinal crops are cultivated for market. He has experimented with techniques, cultivars and timing over 7 seasons in the pursuit of a climate-resilient, arid-lands adapted production system to supply local food and medicine to the Middle Rio Grande Valley. Additionally, as Las Huertas Farmer Training Program Director and Farm Manager at Rio Grande Community Farm, Sean oversees seed saving projects, habitat restoration, and advocacy of organic and regenerative farming practices.

CORONADO/COZUMELWhy Every Farmer Needs a MicroscopeAdvanced Organic growers understand that living soils need beneficial microbial populations. But microbial populations can change rapidly with management and environmental conditions, and frequent laboratory testing may be cost prohibitive. The good news is, a grower can easily establish an in-house microbial monitoring laboratory that will last lifetime, and obtain informative microbiology data as often as desired for less than $1 a sample. Dr. Mary Lucero, Co-owner and CEO of End-O-Fite Enterprises LLC. Affiliate Faculty, NMSU.

Evaluations are available now on https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BTBQ38V


SESSIONSKOKOPELLI Pueblo Agriculture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Native Resilience Garden TechniquesBeginning This presentation will cover the purpose of the Resilience Garden at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Each section of the garden tells a story about Pueblo Agriculture; pre-contact foods, traditional farming methods, Spanish Contact, and finally urban gardening. We will cover some of our successes and failures, information about our small seed bank, and educational programming that we did in 2017. Bettina Sandoval (Taos), Cultural Education SpecialistKevin Beltran (Zuni), Cultural Education Assistant

LAS CRUCES/SANTA FE American Grown/Slow Flower Movement Emily Calhoun will be speaking about the American Grown and Slow Flowers movements, along with her experience and advice on building businesses in specialty markets and cultivating communities through farming and business partnerships.

Emily is a fourth-generation farmer that currently owns and operates Floriography Flowers, a boutique floral and event design company in Abq, and Calhoun Family Farms in Las Cruces. She’s an enthusiastic advocate of flower farming, relationships built through agriculture and thoughtful design promoting New Mexico’s rich agrarian history and landscape.

TAOSGrow Learning With NM Agriculture in the Classroom”

Explore ways agriculture can be used to increase engagement both in and out of the classroom. Discover AGmazing resources and experts that can help educators extend the breadth and scope of lessons, make learning relevant, and inspire students to get growing!

Traci Curry is the Agriculture In the Classroom Coordinator for New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau.

Organic Salad with Raspberry

Vinaigrette

Beef Enchiladas OR Vegetarian

Enchiladas with Organic Cheese

Served with Calabacitas made with

Organic Squash, Corn & Green

Chile

Organic Rice and Beans

Dessert: Organic

Chocolate-Chocolate Chip Ice Cream with

NM Pecan Pieces

Lunch Menu

Saturday, Feb 18th


SESSIONS

Small-scale Mechanical Hops Picker

DemonstrationKevin Lombard, Jason Thomas and Beth LaShell NMSU-ASC Farmington / Fort Lewis College

One of the largest barriers to small-scale hop production is mechanical harvesting. The Hopster 5G (gasoline engine) and 5P (tractor PTO driven) were acquired with support from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture through the United States Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block grant.

The purpose of this project is to 1) expand research activities based at the New Mexico State University Agricultural Science Center at Farmington and the Fort Lewis College “Old Fort” at Hersperus, CO, and 2) to catalyze a hop cooperative that could support a thriving local craft beer economy in New Mexico and Southwest, CO. Growing hops is not for everybody.

If you are interested in learning more about the NMSU/Fort Lewis College hops projects, the Hopster hop harvester will be in the parking lot on display.

YUCATANSmall Fruits and BerriesIntermediate Join farmer Don Bustos in this in depth discussion about growing berries for market, along with production methods, Don will also cover economics and resources that can help NM farmers. Don Bustos is a family farmer from Northern New Mexico, farming land that has been in his family since the Spanish Land Grant of 1598. He was one of the first farmers in New Mexico to receive organic certification and has been certified for over 20 years. In addition to farming his family land, Don is co-director of the American Friends Service Committee’s New Mexico program, where he focuses on training beginning farmers and developing farmer networks throughout the state. Don serves on a variety of boards covering agricultural needs and has received numerous awards including the New Mexico Farmer of the Year in 2006, the New Mexico Organic Farmer of the Year in 2012, and NM State University’s Leyendecker Agriculturalist of Distinction.

Creative Coalition, and the Grand Mesa Nordic Council. Along with others, he helped organize and coordinate the Rogers Mesa Area Wide Codling Moth Management Project (a USDA sponsored project), the Colorado Organic Crop Management Association (to promote organic tree fruit research), the first two National Organic Tree Fruit Research Symposiums, and numerous on-farm organic research projects including pest and weed control projects, organic thinning, and organic fertility. He has two children, ages fifteen and thirteen.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER continued from page 4


SESSIONS

CORONADO/COZUMELNetworking Livestock Session This is your opportunity to join other farmers and discuss your ideas, needs and concerns around livestock.

KOKOPELLINetworking Native American This is your opportunity to join other farmers and discuss your ideas, needs and concerns as Native American farmers.

LAS CRUCES/SANTA FENetworking Crops This is your opportunity to join other farmers and discuss your ideas, needs and concerns around crops.

TAOS Networking School Gardens This is your opportunity to join other farmers and discuss your ideas, needs and concerns around school garden programs.

SaturdayFebruary 17

2:15pm - 4:00pm

NETWORKING

Thank you to Tracy Gerk and Ive Eddy,

NMDA, for pictures. And thanks

for attending!

This brochure is printed with black ink on newsprint

so it can be composted after use.


The 2018 New Mexico Organic Farming Conference

Friday, February 16 – 7:00am to 8:00pmSaturday, February 17 – 7:00am to 5:00pm

Marriott Albuquerque Pyramid North5151 San Francisco Road NE, Albuquerque, NM

Conference OrganizersNew Mexico Department of Agriculture • Stacy Gerk & Ive Eddy

New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service • Patrick TorresFarmer Representative • Joseph Marcoline, Walking Trout Farm

New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau Federation • Chad Smith Sage Faulkner, Facilitator

NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (NMDA) is an agriculture producer/consumer service and regulatory department under New Mexico State University (NMSU). NMDA’s Director/Secretary, Jeff Witte also serves on the Gov-ernor’s Cabinet. The department has six divisions: Agricultural and Environmental Services, Agricultural Programs and Resources, Dairy, Marketing and Development, Standards and Consumer Services, and Veterinary Diagnostic Services. The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is the home of New Mexico’s Organic Program, providing certification ser-vices and support for organic farmers, ranchers and processors. [email protected] or http://www.nmda.nmsu.edu/marketing/organic-program/

NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERISTY COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE is the educational outreach arm of NMSU’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. Backed by state and federal funding, Extension is a co-operative effort between NMSU and county governments. Extension faculty are located in all 33 New Mexico counties and three tribal offices to address your needs in the areas of animal resources, 4-H and youth development, home eco-nomics, rural economic development and plant sciences. We provide the latest information in publications, workshops, demonstrations and one-on-one consultations. www.aces.nmsu.edu or see pages 24-25.

NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU Established in 1917, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau is the Voice of agriculture in New Mexico. As the largest agricultural organization in New Mexico we are a leader in policy develop-ment, advocacy and educational outreach. Our goal is to ensure a successful future for agriculture through promotion of local foods, protection of private property rights and access to agricultural water, and preservation of the customs and culture of agriculture. We offer several leadership development programs including Young Farmers and Ranchers, Collegiate Farm Bureau and our Women’s Leadership Program. Additionally, our New Mexico Ag in the Classroom out-reach initiative offers curriculum and demonstrations to teachers state-wide as we spread awareness of the importance and value of New Mexico agriculture. Join us at www.nmflb.org.

WALKING TROUT FARM is a 15 acre fruit and vegetable farm sitting 900 ft above the Rio Grande on the western flank of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The farm and a small homestead are located 100% off the grid and fed by a high quality spring on the bank of the Rio de Truchas. The spring also is used to irrigate multiple fields and approximately 8500 square feet of greenhouse space. There are 100 young fruit trees and typically between 100 and 150 birds for eggs and meat, as well as horses for manure. The operation employs both passive and active methods for heating and cool-ing using renewables, and produces a large percentage of their own food and feed above market sales. They aggres-sively employ the principles of sustainable and organic agriculture in conjunction with new technology for automation, control, testing and monitoring. The primary outlets for products are local farmers markets, grocery stores and restau-rants. www.facebook.com/walkingtroutfarm

Mil Gracias to the following benefactors

whose generous support has made this

conference possibleFriends of Organic Agriculture:

New Mexico Farm & Livestock BureauSanta Fe Farmers’ Market Institute

Thornburg Foundation

Sponsors:La Montanita Co-op Natural Foods Market

Rocky Mountain Farmers Union & Farmers Union Service AssociationSilver City Food Co-op

SoilutionsVitalis Organic Seeds

Contributors:Farm Credit of New Mexico

Fred Porter, Farm Bureau Financial ServicesMia’s Botanicals

Ricon-Vitova InsectariesWildhood Farm

Wsare Educational Books

And, thanks to the donors listed below for making our delicious organic lunch and snacks possible.

Please return their support when you can.Armijo Farm

Aroma Organic CoffeeBueno Foods

Cid’s Food MarketCoonridge Organic Goat Cheese

Del Valle Organic PecansHeidi’s Organic Raspberry Jam

Horizon DairyLa Montanita Cooperative Distribution Center

Nature’s Way Dairy LLCOrganic Valley Family of Farms

Red Rock Roasters Organic CoffeeSeco Spice

Sweetgrass Cooperative Grass-fed BeefTaos Roasters Organic Coffee

Toucan MarketVeritable Vegetable


Mil Gracias to the following benefactors

whose generous support has made this

conference possibleFriends of Organic Agriculture:

New Mexico Farm & Livestock BureauSanta Fe Farmers’ Market Institute

Thornburg Foundation

Sponsors:La Montanita Co-op Natural Foods Market

Rocky Mountain Farmers Union & Farmers Union Service AssociationSilver City Food Co-op

SoilutionsVitalis Organic Seeds

Contributors:Farm Credit of New Mexico

Fred Porter, Farm Bureau Financial ServicesMia’s Botanicals

Ricon-Vitova InsectariesWildhood Farm

Wsare Educational Books

And, thanks to the donors listed below for making our delicious organic lunch and snacks possible.

Please return their support when you can.Armijo Farm

Aroma Organic CoffeeBueno Foods

Cid’s Food MarketCoonridge Organic Goat Cheese

Del Valle Organic PecansHeidi’s Organic Raspberry Jam

Horizon DairyLa Montanita Cooperative Distribution Center

Nature’s Way Dairy LLCOrganic Valley Family of Farms

Red Rock Roasters Organic CoffeeSeco Spice

Sweetgrass Cooperative Grass-fed BeefTaos Roasters Organic Coffee

Toucan MarketVeritable Vegetable


1-800-827-2847www.arbico-organics.com

Free Catalog

Providing Organic Solutions For Growers Since 1979.

Beneficials • Biologicals • Botanicals

You juggle a lot in your world.

Agent Photo Agent Info

Logo

Disclosure

Auto | Home | Life | Annuities | Business | Farm & Ranch

I know life can be a balancing act.That’s why I’m here to help you protect what matters most, your todays and your tomorrows. Contact me to schedule a SuperCheck® to discuss what’s been happening in your world.

Fred Porter2901 Juan Tabo Blvd NESte 115Albuquerque(505) 345-1520(505) 469-1865 Cellagentfredporter.com

Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company,* Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company,* WesternAgricultural Insurance Company*/West Des Moines, IA. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial ServicesM177 (4-17)


Join the NMFMA!We’re working for you.

We’ve got you covered across the state!

9 Farmer Food Safety Trainings

9 Farmer Business Workshops

9 Wholesale Assistance

9 Marketing & Technical Assistance

9 Networking Opportunities

9 State & Federal Advocacy for Farm and Community Health Programs

Join Today, $25/Year! FarmersMarketsNM.orgOr call Catherine Baca, Membership Coordinator, 505-983-4010

Learn • Connect • Grow


They’re the humble heroes who rise before dawn and battle the elements. They put clothes on our backs and food on our tables. Their genuine values and tireless work ethic are an inspiration to us all ... we salute them.

I invite you to join Farm Bureau in saying thanks to America’s farmers.

Celebrating America’s Farmers3 col x 5.75”

Agent InfoHere

Agent Photo Here

Disclosure Here

Fred Porter2901 Juan Tabo Blvd NESte 115Albuquerque(505) 345-1520agentyfredporter.com

FB03 (9-16)



Bernalillo CountyJohn Garlisch, Agriculture [email protected] 1510 Menaul NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107, 505.243.1386

Catron CountyTracy Drummond, County Program Dir/Ag [email protected] Main Street (Mail to: PO Box 378), Reserve, NM 87830575.533.6430

Chaves CountySandra Key Barraza, County Program Dir/Ag [email protected] E Chisum #4, Roswell, NM 88203, 575.622.3210

Cibola CountyChase Elkins, Agriculture [email protected] West High Street, Grants, NM 87020, 505.287.9266

Colfax CountyBoe Lopez, County Program Dir/Ag [email protected] of 3rd and Savage (Mail to P.O. Box 370), Raton, NM 87740575.445.8071

Curry CountyGlenda Belcher, County Program [email protected] Main Street, Clovis, NM 88101, 575.763-6505

De Baca CountyAspen Achen, County Program [email protected] N. 1st St (Mail to: P.O. Drawer E), Fort Sumner, NM 88119575.355.2381

Dona Ana CountyJeff Anderson, Agriculture [email protected] N. Solano, Suite M, Las Cruces, NM 88001, 575. 525.6649

Eddy CountyWoods Houghton, County Program Dir/Ag [email protected] 1304 W Stevens, Carlsbad, NM 88220, 575.887.6595

Grant CountyJessica Swapp, Agricultural [email protected] N Silver Street, Silver City, NM 88061, 575.388.1559

Guadalupe CountyLeigh Ann Marez, County Program [email protected] 244 S 4th, Suite 110, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, 575.472.3652

Harding CountyBlair Clavel, County Program Dir/Ag Agent [email protected] Pine St (Mail to PO Box 156), Mosquero, NM 87733, 575.673.2341

Hidalgo CountyVacant - 1226 E. Second Street, Lordsburg, NM 88045, 575.542.9291

Jicarilla Extension ServiceJesse LeFevre, Extension Associate [email protected] Drive (Mail to: P.O. Box 679), Dulce, NM 87528-0679, 575.759.3530

Lea CountyWayne Cox, County Program Director/Ag [email protected] 100 N Main, Suite 10-C, Lovington, NM 88260, 575.396.2819

Lincoln CountyMelanie Gutierrez, Ag [email protected] Central (Mail to: PO Box 217) Carrizozo, NM 88301, 575.648.2311

Los Alamos CountyCarlos Valdez, County Program [email protected] 20th Street, Suite A, Los Alamos, NM 87544, 505.662.2656

Luna CountyJack Blandford, County Program Director/Ag [email protected] 210 B Poplar St., Deming, NM 88030, 575.546.8806

McKinley CountyKathy Landers, County Program Dir/Ag [email protected] E. Hwy 66, PMB 470, Gallup, NM 87301, 505.863.3432

Mora CountyVacant, County Program Director/Ag AgentP.O. Box 390, Mora, NM 87732, 575.387.2856

Otero CountySidney “Sid” Gordon, Ag [email protected] Fairgrounds Road, Alamogordo, NM 88310, 575.437.0231

Quay CountyJason Lamb, Ag [email protected] E Center (Mail to: P.O. Drawer B), Tucumcari, NM 88401, 575.461.0562

Rio Arriba CountyDonald Martinez, Ag [email protected] Event Center, State Rd 554, House #122-A(Mail to: HCR 77, Box 9), Abiquiu, NM 87510, 505.685.4523

How To Reach Your County Cooperative Extension Agent


Roosevelt CountyPatrick Kircher, Ag [email protected] E Lime (mail to: P.O. Box 455), Portales, NM 88130, 575.356.4417

Sandoval CountySteve Lucero, County Program Director/Ag [email protected] Camino del Pueblo (Mail to: P.O. Box 400), Bernalillo, NM 87004505.867.2582

San Juan CountyBonnie Hopkins, Ag [email protected] S Oliver , Aztec, NM 87410, 505.334.9496

San Miguel CountySamantha Ortiz, County Program [email protected] 20 Gallegos Road (Mail to: P.O. Box 2170 W Branch), Las Vegas, NM 87701505.454.1497

Santa Fe CountyTom Dominguez, Ag [email protected] Rodeo Road, Santa Fe, NM 87507, 505.471.4711

Sierra CountyJoshua Boyd, County Program Director/Ag [email protected] S. Broadway (Mail to: PO Box 631), Truth or Consequences, NM 87901575.894.2375

Socorro CountyJohn Allen, County Program Director/Ag [email protected] Neel Avenue NW, Socorro, NM 87801, 575.835.0610

Taos CountyTony Valdez, County Program Director/Ag [email protected] 202 Chamisa Road (Mail to: 5671 NDCBU), Taos, NM 87571, 575.758.3982

Torrance CountyGene Winn, County Program Director/Ag [email protected] 9th & Allen (Mail to: P.O. Box 168), Estancia, NM 87016, 505.246.4745

Tri-State Navajo Extension ServiceGerald Moore, Coordinating [email protected] Box 1339, St. Michaels, AZ 86511, 928.871.6605 / 7406

Union CountyVacant, Ag Agent100 Court St. (Mail to: P.O. Box 428), Clayton, NM 88415, 575.374.9361

Valencia CountyJasper McCarty, Ag [email protected] Courthouse Rd. (Mail to: P.O. Box 1059), Los Lunas, NM 87031, 505.565.3002



HARD WATER?EASY SOLUTION!

Zeta Core Catalytic Water ConditionerNo Salt/Potassium/

Chemicals/Maintenance

Replaces Salt Softeners

Dissolves and RemovesMineral Scale

Residential • Agriculture • CommercialSave 20 - 40%

On Irrigation Water

Water Lady

[email protected]


This brochure is printed with black ink on newsprint so it can be composted after use.

NOTES


Evaluations are available now on https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BTBQ38V

NOTES



NOTES



New Mexico Organic Farming ConferenceNew Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau Foundation2220 North TelshorLas Cruces, NM 88011

Non-ProfitOrg. U S Postage

PAID Albuq, NM Permit. 1029

Return Service Requested

New Mexico Organic Farming Conference 2018

Friday, February 16Saturday, February 17MARRIOTT ALBUQUERQUE PYRAMID NORTH


Documents

New Mexico Organic Farming Conferencetradition.nmda.nmsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Organic... · New Mexico Organic Farming Conference • 2018 5 ... Abe Froese Young: Nery Martinez