Calling All Energy Enthusiasts! 2013 Farm Energy Field Days Series 

This series of farmer-led tours will give you a first-hand look at what it takes to integrate renewable energy technologies into your farm or homestead. From a wind driven dairy to solar rooftops to tractors running on sunflower oil, find out how farmers are innovating to turn their farm into an energy producer! You'll learn how to assess your own energy use, explore your renewable energy options, seek financing and grants, and work with technical experts. This is your opportunity to get "how-to" information, view customized equipment on the farm, and network with other energy enthusiasts. All field days are free and open to the public and refreshments will be provided. Sponsored by Northeast SARE and the Cornell Small Farms Program. For more information: http://smallfarms.cornell.edu/2013/09/09/the-power-of-on-farm-sustainable-energy/

NOFA-NY Locavore Challenge is On!

In recognition of National Organic Harvest Month, NOFA-NY has once again launched their month-long September Locavore Challenge to inspire awareness and action in eating locally and organically through events and activities held around the state and online. Register now and join hundreds of people who are participating in the Challenge. All month NOFA-NY will bring you tips, encouragement, event updates, and even introduce you to some great farmers. For more information on the details of the Locavore Challenge, Locavore Challenge events, and what you can do to get involved, visit http://www.nofany.org/events/locavore-challenge.

Deadline for Consigning a Bull to the NY All Forage Fed Bull Test is October 1

Consider consigning a bull to the test conducted at Cornell University's Teaching & Research Facility in Dryden! The project consists of 112-day test to develop and evaluate bulls on an all forage diet. An additional pasture portion has been added for next summer. The details may be found at:  http://ansci.cornell.edu/wp/beefcattle/eventsprograms/. For questions or more information contact Nancy Glazier, [email protected] or585.315.7746.

Dairy Herd Manager Opening in Massachusetts

The Grey Barn and Farm, a small organic dairy farm in Massachusetts with 30 cows and 100 certified organic acres, is seeking a Dairy Herd Manager with at least 3 years of experience. The Dairy Herd Manager will supervise, coordinate, and run the day-to-day operations of the dairy. This includes all aspects of grazing, herd health and breeding. This also includes all aspects of parlor and milk room management. The Dairy Herd Manager must be a self-motivated, methodical and meticulous individual who is willing to work hard, is flexible and has loads of enthusiasm. Position includes housing/benefits and competitive salary. Questions? Contact Eric Glasgow at e[email protected].

Northeast Farm Credit AgEnhancement Grant Program - Due Dec. 1

Interested in hosting a field day or other educational program on your farm? The AgEnhancement Grant Program is an educational grant program that supports projects, events, and activities that promote awareness of agriculture and the food and fiber industries in the Northeast. AgEnhancement also supports programs designed to assist young farmers and youth considering a career in agriculture. Awards range from $1,000 to $5,000. Next application deadline is December 1. For more information and access to the application form, visit https://www.farmcreditmaine.com/.

Northeast SARE Now Accepting Applications for Farmer Grants - Due Dec. 2

NE SARE Farmer Grants are for commercial producers who have an innovative idea they want to test using a field trial, on-farm demonstration, marketing initiative, or other technique. A technical advisor--often an extension agent, crop consultant, or other service professional--must also be involved. Projects should seek results other farmers can use, and all projects must have the potential to add to our knowledge about effective sustainable practices. The proposal deadline for the next round of NE SARE farmer grants is December 2, 2013 with awards announced in March. More information is available here.

Small and Mid-Size Farm USDA Grants- Due Sept. 26

The Small and Mid-Size Farms grants aim to promote and improve the sustainability and profitability of small and mid-size farms and ranches (where annual sales of agricultural products are less than $250,000 for small farms and $500,000 for mid-size farms). Range of Awards:  $70,000 to $100,000. Deadline: September 26, 2013. Contact: Charles Cleland at 202-401-6852; email: [email protected]. For more information:

http://www.nifa.usda.gov/fo/smallandmidsizefarmssbir.cfm

Ready, Set, Learn: USDA Lessons for Our Nation's Next Generation

Back to school season is upon us and agencies across the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are working to ensure a stronger and healthier future for our nation's next generation of leaders. That means providing a happy and healthy learning environment for our kids, and helping them grow up with the tools they need to succeed. The USDA has assembled a few youth-focused curriculum and learning resources to help teachers, administrators and parents give kids fun tools for the classroom and beyond. Check it out at http://www.usda.gov/wps/usda/usdahomeFOR_KIDS.

Food Chain Radio- Your New Source of Agricultural Developments

Every week- as he has for over 900 Saturdays - Michael Olson brings the most important issues concerning agriculture and the food chain to the table for an hour of Food Chain Radio and "What's Eating What" radio that will feed your curiosity and make you hunger for more. Listen Live on Saturdays 9:00am-10:00am Pacific or Delayed on Demand. Food Chain Radio is syndicated on commercial radio stations throughout the U.S. (radio station affiliates) and streamed live and on demand everywhere via the internet. Find out more: http://metrofarm.com/michael-olson-news/gmo/.