"Carroll County, Maryland Farmers' Markets 2006" Directory Now Available (6/16/06)
Are you tired of buying fruit and vegetables that taste plain and not knowing where they come from? Do you look forward to buying local produce that is fresh picked, tastes like it's meant to and enjoy getting to know those that grow, harvest and sell it? If you've said yes then you're in luck!
The Carroll County Department of Economic Development's "Carroll County, Maryland Farmers' Markets 2006" directory is now available to the public. The brochure lists the three public farmers' markets in Carroll County and 13 privately owned farm markets scattered throughout the County. The directory includes dates and times open, fruits or vegetables offered, special events and contact information for each market. A quick reference locater map and approximate harvest dates are also listed.
The directory is available at numerous locations including the Carroll County Tourism Office, Visitor Information, public libraries, Carroll County Government Office Building and online at www.carrollag.org under the Farmers' Markets section. For more information or to be listed in future directories please contact Gabe Zepp, Ag Development Specialist at 410-386-2070.
Carroll County WIC Farmers' Market Vendors Wanted (6/16/06)
The Carroll County Health Department WIC (Womens Infants and Children) Program, in cooperation with the Carroll County Department of Economic Development, is planning to hold its 3rd Annual One-day WIC Farmers' Market in July. Fruit and vegetable growers that participate in WIC approved markets throughout Maryland are encourage to participate in this unique event. The market will be held in a designated lot behind the health department and will coincide with the distribution of the WIC coupon checks for the Farmers' Market Nutrition Program.
The market will be open to the public and will accept coupon checks from both the WIC Program and the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program.
The one-day market held last July was a huge success and continues to garner national attention with the WIC Program throughout the United States. The idea behind holding the market is to allow primarily WIC participants the opportunity to become familiar with the farmers selling their goods, the concept of the WIC nutrition services and to increase the redemption rates for WIC coupons distributed in Carroll County.
For more information and to become a vendor at the 3rd Annual One-day WIC Farmers' Market please contact Gabe Zepp, Ag Development Specialist, at 410-386-2070.
Agriculture Education Opportunities Abound (12/30/05)
The Maryland Cooperative Extension (MCA), Carroll County Office will be offering an assortment of educational programs during the first two months of the new year. The "Winter Wednesday Series" will be offered beginning January 11th and continuing until February 15th. These workshops for the agriculture community will be held at the Extension Office in rooms K, A & B each Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until noon. A tentative topic and speaker list is available by clicking here. These sessions will be similar to those held last winter, which allowed for a lot of open dialogue between the attendees and the speaker. Those interested in attending are ask to call in by the day before the session you plan to attend, so materials can be provided.
New this year, the Carroll County Office will be offering a "Winter Extension Dairy Talk Series". Sessions will be held on Thursdays starting January 5th through February 23rd, except for February 14 which is a Tuesday, beginning at 10:00 a.m. until noon. Sessions will be held at the Carroll County Extension Office in rooms K, A & B. A tentative topic and speaker list is available by clicking here.
The MCA, Carroll County Office will also play host to a "Central Maryland Grazing Conference" on January 24, 2006 at the Carroll County Agriculture Center in Westminster. This program includes a producer panel and topics dealing with issues important to anyone with an interest in pastures. More information on the conference can be obtained by clicking here.
The MCA will also host a "Grain Marketing Workshop" on February 7, 2006 at the Mt. Airy Fireman's Activity Center, Twin Arches Road (Carnival Grounds), Mt. Airy, MD from 9:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Information to be provided includes, Pricing Tools and Strategies, Crop Insurance for Risk Management and Winning the Game. More information on the workshop can be obtained by clicking here.
The Maryland Dairy Industry Association (MDIA) Annual Meeting and Conference will be held on February 16, 2006 (snow date is February 23, 2006) at the Carroll County Agriculture Center in Westminster from 9:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The theme for the conference is "Profitable at Any Size". Included this year are producer panels during the concurrent sessions which will allow you to attend two of the three panel discussions. Dr. Charles Gardner, DVM, MBA is one of three individuals who will be sharing their perspectives on some critically important issues to dairy producers. For more information on the meeting and annual conference please click here.
"Christmas Trees and Holiday Greens in Carroll County, Maryland 2005" Brochure now Available (11/18/05)
Locating and selecting the perfect Christmas tree has become a family tradition to many. The smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree adds to the excitement of the Holidays. Christmas trees are also 100% naturally recyclable. The National Christmas Tree Association's Quick Tree Facts state for every real tree harvested, up to 3 tree seedlings are planted in its place every year. Each acre of Christmas trees grown in Carroll County provides the daily required oxygen level for up to 18 people.
The "Christmas Trees & Holiday Greens in Carroll County, Maryland 2005" brochure is available through the Department of Economic Development, Visitors Center and the Carroll County Public Libraries. The brochure lists 12 Carroll County farms that offer cut-your-own Christmas trees and fresh cut greens. Included under each farm heading are dates and times open, directions, tree types and sizes available and other offerings from each farm. A Carroll County map with the location of each farm is also provided. Start a new family tradition this year by visiting a local Christmas tree farm.
Click here to view a PDF file of the brochure. For further information please contact Gabe Zepp, Agricultural Marketing Specialist, at 410-386-2070 or email: ag@carrollbiz.org.
Winning Strategies for Maryland Agriculture (11/01/05)
The University of Maryland's Center for Agriculture and Natural Resource Policy will host the Ninth Annual Agriculture Outlook and Policy Conference titled "Winning Strategies for Maryland Agriculture".
The conference will be held on Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center in Beltsville, Maryland. The conference will focus on analysis of issues that arose in surveys and listening sessions undertaken by the Maryland Agriculture Commission in preparation for the Governor's Conference in February 2006. The goal is to lay out concisely the key facts pertaining to the issues, to go as far as possible in quantifying the cost and benefits of policy options, and to make clear what questions still remain open and need to be resolved before recommendations can be made convincingly.
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. followed by a welcome and introduction of Cheng-i Wei, Dean, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Maryland, College Park. The agenda will include Trends, Vulnerabilities, and National Situation; Maintain Maryland Agriculture's Land Base; Profitability Through Value Added and Marketing; and Public Goods and Services for Maryland Agriculture. Registration is $25 and attendees must pre-register by November 16. Lunch will be provided and seating is limited. For more information or to register call 301-405-0057 or click here for additional information.
Time to Make Plans to Market Feeder Calves (10/20/05)
Weaning time is now upon us. It's time again to make plans to market your feeder calves if you do not plan on finishing them yourself. Many cattle producers choose to sell at one of the numerous local sale barns or have other arrangements to direct market feeder calves. If a decision on selling feeder calves has not been made the following information may be of interest.
Cattle producers that are interested in selling direct, please complete one of the survey forms and mail or fax back to the Department of Economic Development. The surveys will be used to gather information from cattle producers and buyers so that the Department may act as a liaison between buyers and sellers of Carroll County beef cattle. The Department will work with smaller producers to group similar cattle together in an effort to market larger trailer load size of feeder calves demanded by buyers.
The Department of Economic Development's purpose in offering this service is to assist cattle producers in merchandizing their feeder calves and encourage beef quality assurance training in an effort to add value to those cattle being sold. For additional information please contact Gabe Zepp at 410-386-2070.
Fall Family Fun at Quality Evergreens (9/21/05)
Fall family fun can be had at Quality Evergreens with their numerous fall activities. "Down on the Farm" is the theme of Confusion, the corn maze at Quality Evergreens. Other activities include u-pick or ready pick pumpkins, pumpkin slinging, pumpkin ring toss, barnyard zoo, picnic area, hay rides are only a few of the activities being offered at Quality Evergreens. The farm is located at 2020 Garrett Road in Manchester and is open weekends in October from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information please call 410-374-1499 or click here to open a PDF file listing all the activities and a $1.00 off coupon.
Board of County Commissioners Looking for Holiday Tree (9/8/05)
The Board of County Commissioners is looking for a 20 to 30-foot spruce or fir to serve as the county holiday tree. If you are willing to donate a tree, please contact Vivian Laxton, Public Information Administrator, at 410-386-2804, no later than 4 p.m. Friday, October 14. This fall, a committee will select the tree to be displayed in front of the County Office Building.
Experienced Horse Farm Manager Wanted (9/10/05)
A northern Carroll County horse farm is in need of a farm manager to take care of the daily activities associated with the farm. New house and other benefits provided. References required. Call 410-346-6953 for more information.
2005 Carroll County 4H and FFA Fair Coming Soon (7/22/05)
Carroll County 4-H and FFA Fair brings animals, exhibits, music, demonstrations, and interactive family fun to town July 30- Aug 5. Events will be held at the Carroll County Agriculture Center, 700 Agriculture Center in Westminster, Maryland. The events have no admission charges, offers free parking, free shuttle and handicap accessibility. Information for events can be found by visiting www.carrollcountyfair.com or by calling 410-848-FAIR. Pedal Power, Tractor Pullers, Mini Monster Trucks, Racing and Swimming Pigs events - will have multiple shows daily. WTTR, The Voice of Carroll County, will host 4-H and FFA exhibitors, volunteers and families on live broadcasts from the fair Mon, 8/1 -Fri 8/5 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.
Saturday, July 30: Family Fun Day, Swine, Sheep & Beef Breeding Shows start at 9:00 a.m., Alpaca Show start at 10:00 a.m., also at 9:00 a.m. is a Mini Horse Show; Children's Pedal Pull 1:00 p.m. on the Midway, 12:30 p.m. "Tom Crowl and the Mrs. Magic Show; Official Fair Opening Activities opening day at 5 p.m. and is followed by the Family Fun Fest until 7p.m. (Fun at the Adorable Baby Contest, Milk Shake Mustache, Tootsie Roll Spitting Contest, Rooster Crowing Contest, (Registration is one half hour prior to contest.) 7:00 p.m. "Be a Farmer" Contest; Mike Yost and Miller Station performs on Finch Stage from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 31: The Mule Pull will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a mule show at 1:00 p.m. then the "mile high jumping mules" at 3:00 p.m. A non-denominational worship services will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Gospel Travelers Concert at 12:00 noon. Children's Pedal Pull registration at 1:00 p.m with the Pedal Pull at 2:00 p.m., The 4-H and FFA Parade at 6:00 p.m. Shepherd's Lead Contest at 7:30 p.m. and The Farm Bureau Ambassador Contest at 8:00 p.m. in the activities tent.
Monday, Aug 1: The English Horse show starts the day at 8 a.m.; at 12:00 the Meat Goat Show in the Activity Tent, the mini fashion revue at 5:00 p.m., Beef Clip-Out Contest at 6:00 p.m. in the Shipley Arena, The Carroll County Performing Arts Club at 6:30 p.m.; in addition, at 7:00 p.m. the Dairy Fit-Out Contest.
Tuesday, Aug 2 is Children's Day with activities from 9a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Sheep and Dairy Goat shows can be attended all day starting at 9am. Clover Pet Show at 4 -6:00 p.m.., The Skid Steer Contest begins at 7:00 p.m. Salem Bottom Boys perform at 7:30 p.m. in the activity tent.
Wednesday, Aug 3rd is Western Horse, Swine, Horse Pull and Cake Auction Day. The Western Horse show starts at 8am. Swine shows are all day beginning at 9am. Hall of Fame and Friends of the Fair Awards are presented in the Activity Tent at 6:15 prior to the annual Cake Auction beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Horse Pull is at 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, Aug 4th is the day for Senior Citizen's exhibits and fun. Beef Fitting & Showing Contest start at 9:00 a.m., Dairy Steer Fitting & Showing Contest is at 3:00 p.m. followed by the Dairy Steer Show and the Beef Show is at 5pm. The Grand Parent's Essay Contest winners will be announced at 6:30 p.m. Entertainment is performed by Carroll County Cloggers in the Activity Tent from 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.
Friday, August 5th is Dairy Cattle Day and the Annual Livestock Auction which begins with the Buyers Appreciation Picnic at 4:30 p.m. followed by the Livestock Sale at 5:30 p.m. An All-U-Can-Eat pit beef and pork dinner will be served in Burns Hall from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Monster Truck Extravaganza begins at 7:30 p.m. in the horse arena. The money raffle and ATV raffle drawings will be held at 10:00 p.m. The fair closes at 10:30 p.m.
USDA Warns Producers of Potential Employee Imposter ( 7/20/05)
Columbia, Maryland, July 7, 2005 - Elizabeth Anderson, Executive Director of USDA's Farm Service Agency in Maryland, warned producers today of a potential imposter attempting to obtain personal bank account information.
"USDA has been notified that someone posing as a USDA employee contacted a producer by phone and requested bank account information," said Anderson. "USDA will never request such information by phone."
USDA does request bank account information from producers in order to make direct deposit payments for various programs. These types of transactions are completed on USDA forms in local FSA offices.
Anderson advises that any producer contacted by someone posing to be with USDA and requesting such information should immediately contact the local FSA county office. Anderson stressed producers should never provide bank account or other personal information by phone.
For additional information or assistance in identifying USDA Farm Service Agency employees, please contact your local FSA office or the Maryland State FSA Office
at 410.381.4550.
Carroll Technology Council (CTC) to feature Dairy Farm Technology (7/15/05)
Mike Bell, Extension Educator with the Maryland Cooperative Extension, Carroll County, will be the guest speaker during the next CTC monthly meeting on August 4, 2005, 11:00 a.m. at the Carroll Communty College's Miller Business Training Center. Mike will speak about the International Expose' on Automated Milking Systems - Real World Experience in the Netherlands, Denmark, and California. Visually experience the latest technologal advancements currently being utilized globally to milk the world's dairy herd. While this is not the way grandma and grandpa milked, it isn't R2D2 or C3PO, either. Cows are milked when they want, and as often as they want...well almost. Generally, cows are milked with this type of system 2.6 - 2.9 times per day, 365 days a year. Our cows have "mooved" into the 21st century. Join us for a Real Seal, Got Milk experience.
For more information contact the Carroll County Deptment of Economic Development at 410-386-2070.
Carroll County, Maryland Farmers' Markets Directory 2005 now Available (6/10/05)
Does the thought of eating fresh local fruits and vegetables make your mouth salivate? Fresh asparagus, cucumbers, tomatoes, strawberries, raspberries, peaches and everyone's summertime favorite ..sweet corn! If you're wondering where to find some of Carroll County's finest fruits and vegetables look no further.
The Carroll County Department of Economic Development's "Carroll County, Maryland Farmers' Markets Directory 2005" is now available to the public. The brochure lists the three public farmers' markets in Carroll County and 14 privately owned farm markets scattered throughout the County. It includes dates and times open, fruits or vegetables offered, special events and contact information for each market. A quick reference locater map and approximate harvest dates are also listed.
The directory is available at numerous locations including the Carroll County Tourism Office, Tourism Center, public libraries, Carroll County Government Office Building or to view online click here. For more information or to be listed in future directories please contact Gabe Zepp at 410-386-2070.
Farmers' Markets of Carroll County, Maryland Opening Soon (6/9/05)
Farmers' markets of Carroll County, Maryland will soon open for the upcoming season. Three farmers' markets are located throughout Carroll County including two in Westminster and one in Taneytown.
The Downtown Westminster Farmers' Market at the Conaway South parking lot along MD 27 will open June 4 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is open Saturdays until November 26.
The Carroll County Farmers' Market at the Carroll County Ag Center off Smith Avenue will open June 18 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is open Saturdays until September 3 including the 4H and FFA Fair week.
The Taneytown Main Street Farmers' Market at the Tender Learning Care parking lot along E. Baltimore Street will open June 25 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and is open Saturdays through the fall.
Local farmers' markets offer a wide variety of high quality locally grown agricultural products including: fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, herbs, potted plants, baked goods and honey. Plan to visit these markets often for a convenient way to buy great tasting, nutritious produce.
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) checks accepted at all three markets.
For more information on the farmers' markets or for information on becoming a vendor at any of the public markets please contact Gabe Zepp, Ag Marketing Specialist, at 410-386-2070.
"Christmas Trees and Holiday Greens in Carroll County, Maryland" Brochure to be Updated (6/8/05)
The "Christmas Trees & Holiday Greens in Carroll County, Maryland" brochure is now being updated through the Department of Economic Development. Any Christmas tree grower in Carroll County wishing to advertise is asked to respond. The brochure will be available throughout the County, State and at special events. In addition, the brochure will be distributed to visitors at the Visitor Center in Westminster and local libraries. It can be viewed on the Department of Economic Development agriculture web site, www.carrollag.org. There is no fee to be included.
The brochure includes cut-your-own farms, dates and times open, directions, trees and sizes available and other offerings from each farm. The previous version of the brochure can be viewed at www.carrollag.org/pdf/XmasTree2.pdf. For more information please contact Gabe Zepp, Agricultural Marketing Specialist, at 410-386-2070 or email: gzepp@ccg.carr.org.
Announcing The Dispersal Sale of Feeser's Carousel Angus Herd (3/18/05)
Longtime Carroll County farm family and Angus cattle breeders, Frank and Julie Feeser, are announcing the dispersal sale of their Carousel Angus herd. The Feeser's have spent much time and effort producing high quality registered Angus. The highlight of the offering is Carousel Clinique 2094, the foundation "6807" donor with numerous daughters and maternal sisters that sell.
The dispersal sale will be held in conjunction with the Northern Virginia Female Classic on Saturday, May 14, 2005 at noon at the Culpeper Ag Enterprises, Culpeper, Virginia.
Over 70 females sell sired by popular Angus bulls 6807, EXT, 095, OCC Bonanza, VRD 878, Equator 6122, Right Time, Northern Star and Future Direction 5321. For more information on the sale offering contact Frank or Julie Feeser at 410-751-1287 or email: carouselangus@aol.com. To view the sale flier highlighting additional sale offerings click here.
New Website Promotes the Carroll County Agriculture Center and Shipley Arena (3/17/05)
The Carroll County Agriculture Center, Inc. has undergone a major transformation over the last few years including the construction of the new 60,000 square foot Danielle Shipley Memorial Arena. To keep pace with today's electronic world, a website was launched to help promote the "Carroll County Agriculture Center and Shipley Arena" as an event and meeting facility and local tourist attraction.
A comprehensive description and photos of the entire complex, including the Shipley Arena, Burns Memorial Hall, Alesia, Medford and Blizzard Buildings, Therapeutic Riding Barn, Outdoor Riding Ring, Stage and Grass Areas, Concession Building and Pavilion are featured on the website. The site also includes an events calendar, contact information and directions. These facilities are used extensively as a great location for meetings, banquets, farmer's markets, outdoor functions and more.
Described on the website as "Located in central Carroll County - the region's finest agriculture county - the Agriculture Center and Shipley Arena are perfectly situated to meet our diverse needs and those of our neighbors in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., southern Pennsylvania and western Delaware. Our facilities are designed to host a wide variety of events from livestock and equestrian outings to live music shows and entertainment events to trade shows and exhibits, and fairs and circuses." On Saturday evenings the Shipley Arena is now host to the "Battle of the Beast Bullriding" - a fun family event for everyone.
For more information on the Carroll County Agriculture Center and Shipley Arena or to book your next meeting or event contact Larry Collins, General Manager, at 410-848-6704 or visit their website at www.carrollcountyagcenter.com.
Auction of Ebert Dairy Farm - Saturday, April 2, 2005 (3/16/05)
"MacRo, Ltd. is honored to represent Ebert Road Dairy, LLC in the marketing of the Ebert Road Dairy Farm at auction. The owners have invested considerable time, money and effort in making this one of Carroll County's finest modern dairy operations.
The Offering includes over 107 rolling acres of excellent farmland with numerous improvements suited towards operating a first class dairy operation. The property was one of the first farms placed in permanent easement with the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation in 1982. The dairy facilities contain over 40,000 square
feet under roof and were built to accommodate in excess of 350 milking head. The operation has a current nutrient management plan and is serviced by a 1.5 million gallon earthen basin lagoon. Other notable improvements include a bank barn, calf facility, trench silos, grain bins and a water well yielding in excess of 30 gallons of water per minute. An additional 550 +/- acres of crop land is available for lease and immediate planting of corn or
beans.
The property also features a late 1800's farmhouse that has been well maintained and has many period details still intact. The home sits in a beautiful setting amongst large trees and is sufficiently buffered from the dairy operation without being too removed.
This farm, without the dairy equipment, can also be used for other farming operations. The freestall barn would make an ideal indoor arena with adjoining box stalls; other possible uses include beef cattle, nursery stock, contract farming, or simply a beautiful rural farm and home."
MacRo LTD. Real Estate Services
For more information on the auction packages please click here or contact MacRo LTD. Real Estate Services at 301-698-9696.
Carroll County, MD dairy farm Windsor Manor showcases farm's best in "The Royal Windsor" (3/15/05)
"About the only person that had a hard time on Saturday at the Royal Windsor Sale in New Windsor, MD, was the slip runner...there was simply no room for anyone to move! A packed house gathered on March 5 at the home of Jason, Donna and Kristin Myers and Gabe & Kelly Zepp, to celebrate the Windsor-Manor breeding program displayed in an 85-lot sale. Topping the event was Lot #1, a beautiful VG-88 Garter daughter selling with multiple AI and embryo contracts. Windsor-Manor Zebee-ET hails from the best known cow family at the Myers', the "Zips". With CTPI +1894 PTA +1694M +65F +51P and a herd deviation of +4706M, Zebee sold for $51,000 to Kirby Horst of Newmanstown, PA. The second high seller was the graceful Red Rubens daughter, Windsor-Manor Rubn Reba-Red (EX-90), who's full sister is Rubn Ruby (EX-91), the HM All-American R&W Jr. 3-Year-Old in 2003. Reba, entered in the Maryland Futurity, sold for $19,200 to Richard Green, Middletown, DE. Eighty-five fulls lots averaged $5483.41 in the sale managed by MD-Hillbrook, Mt. Airy, MD.
Sale notes:
True to their well known hospitality, Jason & Donna covered all the bases, hosting a pre-sale dinner the night before featuring Mr. Joe Schwartzbeck's famous spicey crab soup. With somewhat warmer temperatures and a large crowd expected, parking was deferred to an alfalfa field on top of the hill. By the end of the day, deep ruts filled the field, making it impossible for people to get out. Towing tractors transported every vehicle safely to the road without a further worry of mud bogging!
Sales staff included the lively and entertaining team of Tim Abbott, Brian Garrison and Robert Yeoman, with Norman Hill, David J. Lentz, Karen Knutsen, Mike Heath, Rick Verbeek and Ron Heffner rounding out the team. Presenting the lineup was Kelly Myers Zepp, Kristin Myers, the recently engaged Clair Dufford, Erin Burall, Wayne Stiles, and the Abbott wonders - Chelsea and Caitlyn. Food was provided by the birthday girl, Crystal Dell, and her assistants!"
Holstein World
Carroll County Beef Producers Strive to Produce High Quality Beef (11/4/04)
The Carroll County Department of Economic Development and the MD Cooperative Extension, Carroll County recently co-hosted a MD Beef Quality Assurance Program at a local Carroll County farm. The program, designed to teach best management practices including herd health, animal management and animal handling was presented to over 40 local beef producers. Carroll beef producers are hoping to increase the quality of beef raised locally in an effort to increase the demand and marketability of their cattle.
Read the "Carroll County Times" article "Area beef farmers benefiting from local certification class".
NxLevel Agricultural Entrepreneurial Training Program Being Offered (12/30/04)
A 4-week course for the agricultural entrepreneur who is thinking about starting an agricultural based venture, needing to expand a current business, or considering an opportunity to diversify if being offered by the Maryland Cooperative Extension, Howard County Economic Development Authority, Carroll Community College and the USDA Risk Management Program and is being held at the Carroll Community College.
The course is designed to enhance entrepreneurial skills and assist in the development of a comprehensive business plan. Individuals who are searching for innovative ideas and enhanced marketing opportunities in the area of agriculture are encouraged to attend. Attendees will gain business planning knowledge, learn about important contacts that include other agricultural professionals, and essential business resources. There will be plenty of networking opportunities and one-on-one consultation time.
Registration deadline is January 10, 2004 and seating is limited.
For more information and a brochure on this NxLevel Training course click here.
Maryland Beef Quality Assurance Program Training and Certification Workshop (10/11/04)
The Carroll County Department of Economic Development and the Maryland Cooperative Extension are sponsoring a "Maryland Beef Quality Assurance Program Training and Certification Workshop" on Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at Country Acres Farm in Westminster. Dr. Scott Barao, Beef Program Specialist, University of Maryland, will instruct participants on how to implement a cattle management process needed to create and maintain a BQA program on the farm. The MD BQA Training and Certification Program allows beef cattle producers an opportunity to gain informaiton and hands-on training on the specific best management practices required to produce "defect free" beef.
For more information and to register for the workshop please click here.
Cornfusion, the Corn Maze at Quality Evergreens now Open (10/4/04)
Carroll County's first privitely owned corn maze at Quality Evergreens is now open to the public. Quality Evergreens, a Christmas tree farm, invites you to visit their fall fun attractions offering pick your own pumpkins, ready pick pumpkins, pumpkin slinging, fall merchandise, kid's play area, pumpkin ring toss, corn maze, decorative corn, giant pumpkins, barnyard zoo, picnic area, snack area, hay rides and much more.
Quality Evergreens is located on Garrett Road at the PA/MD line between Hanover, PA and Manchester, MD. For more information click here or call 410-374-1499.
Sheep & Goat Genetics Conference to be held October 30, 2004 (9/28/04)
The Western Maryland Research & Education Center (Keedysville, 9 miles south of Hagerstown) will be hosting a Sheep & Goat Genetics Conference on Saturday, October 30, 2004, 9 a.m. to 4:10 p.m. All topics will relate to the genetic improvement of sheep and goats raised for meat, fiber or milk. The conference will combine lecture presentations with hands-on sessions with live animals.
The registration fee is $25 per person and includes refreshments, lunch and conference materials. Checks should be made payable to the University of Maryland and sent to Sheep & Goat Genetics Conference, Western Maryland Research & Educational Center, 18330 Keedysville Road, Keedysville, MD 21756. A program brochure can be downloaded from the web at http://www.sheepandgoat.com/04geneticsconference.pdf and the registration form can be included with payment. Registration deadline is October 22.
Information about the conference can be found on the web at http://www.sheepandgoat.com/04geneticsconference.html.
Foggy Bottom Farms to host the Maryland Hereford "Celebrate Maryland Sale" (9/21/04)
On October 9, 2004, 12:00 noon, the Maryland Hereford "Celebrate Maryland Sale" will take place in Carroll County at Ray and Cyndy Howes, Foggy Bottom Farms in Taneytown, MD. The sale will feature Hereford cattle from 16 breeders throughout the region including Carroll County's own Deep Run Farm, Critter Hill Farm, Briar Patch Farms and Foggy Bottom Farms. The "Celebrate Maryland Sale" will feature three bulls and over 45 female lots to choose from. For more information contact the MD Hereford Association at 301-645-1615 or email: prfherefords@yahoo.com. To download a catalog please click here.
Gesell Farm Corn Maze to Open (8/25/04)
Starting Labor Day weekend, a 17-acre corn maze will open at the County-owned Gesell Farm in Westminster. The corn maze will be open to the public Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 5 p.m. and the last entry into the maze will be at 8:30 p.m. Visitors will have the option of taking three paths: a short, medium or long course.
Entrance to the maze will be at the Therapeutic Riding Barn at the Carroll County Ag Center. Admission cost is $10 for ages 13 and up, $5 for ages 6-12, and free to children under 6.
The corn maze was created as a fund-raising event by the Gesell Farm Board of Directors. The 102-acre Gesell Farm was purchased by Carroll County in April 1999 for future use by the Carroll County Farm Museum and the Carroll County Agriculture Center. The Gesell Board is looking for volunteers and service organizations to operate the corn maze with the opportunity that these organizations will raise money for themselves by keeping profits from the refreshments sales at the corn maze.
The design of the maze includes a barn, a silo, a cow and a windmill. Visitors or groups will be given a map with numbered stations throughout to help navigate the maze. Flashlights will be available for purchase or visitors may bring their own. For more information or to have your group volunteer, call 410-386-2842.
Click here for a PDF file of the Corn Maze Flyer.
Teachers Honored for Stressing the Importance of Agriculture (8/24/04)
Three Carroll County high school teachers where honored by the Maryland Agricultural Teachers Association for their efforts to teach agricultural awareness and practices to high school students.
Terry Adkins of South Carroll High School received the association's "Ideas Unlimited" award for her development of a project in floral arranging.
Kim Moyer of Century High School received the "Teachers Turn the Key" award, given to second year teachers who have created a growing interest in agricultural education among students. "They take it for granted where their food comes from," Moyer said. "We get into the processes, like what it takes to get that gallon of milk, and it's very eye opening for them."
Joe Linthicum of Francis Scott Key High School received the "Teacher Mentor Award" for his work with beginning or inexperienced teachers in agriscience by helping them to become established in the classroom and with teaching.
The awards were presented at the annual Maryland Agricultural Teachers Association Summer Technical Update Conference in Salisbury.
Farm Estate Planning Workshops (7/21/04)
The University of Maryland Cooperative Extension, the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are co-sponsoring two Farm Estate Planning workshops. These one-day siminars are designed to develop a working knowledge of the various types of estate planning tools that are applicable to their unique situations. Provide understanding of the federal and state tax implications of the various estate planning tools and provide motivation and comfort in seeking local resources to establish their individual estate plans.
The program is designed for everyone interested in farm estate planning including farm families, businesses serving farmers and state and local government officials.
For more information, please contact Jane Doyle at 301-405-1293 or email: jdoyle@arec.umd.edu. For a downloadable PDF copy of the brochure and registration form please click Estate Planning Workshop.
Farmers' Markets Now Open (7/7/04)
Carroll County Farmers' Markets are now open for the 2004 season. Three farmers' markets are located throughout Carroll County including two in Westminster and one in Taneytown.
The Downtown Westminster Farmers' Market is located along Rt. 27 in the Conaway South Parking Lot in Westminster. The market is open Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. until October 30.
The Carroll County Farmers' Market is located at the Carroll County Ag Center in Westminster off Smith Avenue. The market is open Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. until September 4.
The Taneytown Main Street Farmers' Market is located at the old F&M Bank Parking Lot along Main Street (Rt. 140) in Taneytown. The market is open Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. until September 11.
Local farmers' markets provide fresh, locally grown, nutritious, fruits and vegetables and baked goods. Plan to visit these markets often to buy great tasting produce and show your support for our area farmers.
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program checks are accepted at all three markets.
For more information on the markets please click here.
Veneman Announces $22.8 Million in Grants for Renewable Energy Initiatives (5/11/04)
$22.8 Million Targeted for Farmers, Ranchers and Small Business to Acquire Energy Systems or Improve Energy Efficiencies
WASHINGTON, May 11, 2004-Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman announced the availability of approximately $23 million in grants that will support President BushÕs energy plan to develop renewable energy systems and promote energy efficiency improvements.
"President Bush wants to bring greater energy independence to our country through expanded use of renewable energy," said Veneman. These grants will help AmericaÕs farmers, ranchers and rural businesses meet this need."
Veneman said the Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements program was created as part of the 2002 Farm Bill to assist farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses develop renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements to their operations. In 2003, the Bush Administration invested $21.7 million to assist 114 applicants from 24 states develop or improve wind power, anaerobic digester, solar, ethanol and other bioenergy related systems or energy efficiency improvements.
Applicants for the Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements program must be agricultural producers or rural small businesses, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and have demonstrated financial need. Rural Development grant funds may be used to pay up to 25 percent of the eligible project costs. Eligible projects include those that derive energy from a wind, solar, biomass, or geothermal source, or hydrogen derived from biomass or water using wind, solar, or geothermal energy sources. Applications must be completed and submitted with a postmark no later than 75 days from the May 5, 2004 Federal Register publication of the notice of funding availability. Detailed information about program requirements and information on how and where to apply is included in the funding notice. Awards will be made on a competitive basis for the purchase of renewable energy systems and to make energy improvements. For a copy of the funding notice visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/farmbill or contact the Rural Development State Office for Delaware and Maryland at (302) 697-4300.
USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. As a venture capital entity, Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure.
* Article from Agricultural Research Service, News Service
Carroll Soil Conservation District Cooperator of the Year 2003 (4/25/04)
Jerry Russell of Westminster, Maryland has been working with the Soil Conservation District Office since 1984. He entered into a Rural Clean Water Program (RCWP) contract in 1986. He completed all of the conservation practices detailed in his RCWP contract.
Mr. Russell has planted his whole farm into grass and has implemented a managed intensive grazing system (89.5 acre and 13 paddocks) for his 45 head of beef cattle. He is slowly increasing this herd size to utilize all of his pasture. He has installed 3000 feet of pipe to supply water to 5 permanent and several movable watering troughs. He re-constructed the farm pond that was there when he tool over the operation. He has installed 3 grasses waterways with subsurface drainage to control gully erosion.
In 2002 Mr. Russell hosted an evening pasture walk attended by approximately 35 people that led to 3 EQIP contracts. He is constantly encouraging other beef farmers to improve and better manage their pasture lands.
Mr. Russell had the number 1 Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) application in the State for 2003, but declined a GRP contract because he didn't feel it was appropriate taking money for something he was going to do anyway (maintain his farm in grass).
Mr. Russell is very proud of the improvements he has made on his farm and he should be. By converting to all hay land and pasture he has reduced the amount of both sediment and nutrients running off his property into the nearby streams. He has worked hard to improve the quality of his farm and the livestock he sells. One of the steers he sold was the 4-H Grand Champion at the 2003 York Fair.
* Article from the Carroll Soil Conservation District, Conservation News and 2003 Annual Report
Click here to read the whole report from the Carroll Soil Conservation District
If Clogged Arteries Are Your Problem, Try Eating Oats
Phenolic antioxidants in oats have been found to obstruct the ability of cholesterol to stick to artery walls. Researchers funded by the Agricultural Research Service have shown that these compounds, called avenanthramides, significantly suppress the adhesive molecules that "glue" blood cells to artery walls.
The study was done by nutritionist Mohsen Meydani and colleagues at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at Tufts University in Boston, Mass. Meydani is director of the HNRCA's Vascular Biology Laboratory.
When blood cells stick to artery walls and cause inflammation, plaque deposits build up and narrow the passageways through which blood flows. The suppression of plaque provided by avenanthramide compounds may lessen the gradual constriction of vessels that leads to hardening of the arteries.
To test the compound's anti-degenerative activity within arterial walls, the scientists purified avenanthramides from oats and exposed them to human arterial wall cells for 24 hours. They then observed the mixture under incubation. Meydani found that the ability of blood cells to stick to arterial wall cells was significantly reduced.
Water-soluble fiber from oats has long been believed to help reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol circulating in blood. To gain heart-healthy benefits from fiber and avenanthramides, the researchers suggest adding oat products as part of an overall healthy diet and cutting down on high-fat, high-cholesterol foods.
As a grain, oats are included in enriched cereals and breads, in oatmeal as rolled oats, and in muffins and other baked goods as oat bran.
Read more about this research in the June issue of Agricultural Research magazine, available on the World Wide Web at: www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/jun04/oats0604.htm
* Article from the Agricultural Research Service, News Service
