2 MAINE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE...

2 MAINE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • January 5, 2018

Commissioner’s Welcome

The 77th Maine Agricultural Trades Show expands the connection between new and seasoned Maine farmers and the ever changing marketplace. To grow Maine agricultural opportunities the January 9-11, 2018, event, this year for the first time, includes the annual meeting of the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets as well as more extensive offerings in support of the Beginning Farmers Resource Network.

For 3 days in January the Augusta Civic Center becomes the focus of Central Maine’s farming future with over a hundred informative displays and dozens of educational seminars that target commercial agriculture, small scale forestry and backyard food production. In full view within those Civic Center aisles is the interactive connection between the vibrant, technology driven nature of modern agriculture and the local food, know your farmer lifestyle.

The increasing consumer trend toward tracing food back to its origin is a built-in advantage for direct farmer to consumer transactions. Translating the homegrown appeal of local into marketplace returns for smaller Maine farmers requires targeted messaging of a personalized farm story. A University of Maine analysis of the growth of Maine farms underscores the need for beginning farmers to build consumer connections early. The first 10 years were shown to be especially difficult in the development of a farm enterprise.

Nature’s challenges to growing and preparing safe, quality agricultural products are today matched by the intense challenges of e-commerce. Despite widespread public acceptance of advances in communication technology, the even greater impact of science on agricultural production and safe food is not as commonly understood. Even in the presence of science, technology and market based economies, Maine Agriculture is still connected to the value and the nostalgia of neighbors growing good food and fiber.

There is a lot to see at the 77th Maine Agricultural Trades Show. Reinforce your connection with Maine agriculture by joining us on January 9, 10 and 11, 2018.

STATE OF MAINE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION & FORESTRY

OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER

22 STATE HOUSE STATION

AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333

PAUL R. LEPAGE

GOVERNOR

WALTER E. WHITCOMB

COMMISSIONER

We Hope to see you there.

Walter E. WhitcombCommissioner

HARLOW BUILDING

18 ELKINS LANE,

PHONE: (207) 287-3200FAX: (207) 287-2400WEB WWW.MAINE.GOV/DACF

A Message from Governor Paul R. LePage

The importance of Maine agriculture to our heritage, identity and economy cannot be overstated. Maine’s 8,200 farm operations provide wholesome foods, thousands of jobs and more than $740 million in farm receipts, not including direct sales at farms or farmers markets. Agricultural enterprises large and small are benefiting from the recent growth of Maine agriculture.

This is an exciting time for Maine-made products and agriculture. My administration, through the efforts of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and other state agencies, is working hard to help Maine reach its full potential. Farmers, producers, processors and distributors have an even greater opportunity to feed our neighbors, the region and the world.

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry has greatly improved state-generated marketing, communications and technical assistance to support agricultural enterprises large and small. The result is more connections with the public highlighting the ongoing success of Maine agriculture and the services that support the continued growth and profitability of these small businesses.

The 77th Maine Agricultural Trades Show will feature the exciting research, trends, opportunities and programs happening in Maine agriculture and connect new and seasoned farmers to the evolving, consumer-driven marketplace.

Many examples of the rapid growth of agriculture in our state will be evident at the Agricultural Trades Show, along with some of the men and women responsible for putting local, quality, sustainable food on your table. Please join me in celebrating their efforts.

Sincerely,

Paul R. LePage

Governor

STATE OF MAINEOFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

1 STATE HOUSE STATIONAUGUSTA, MAINE

04333-0001

PAUL R. LEPAGE

GOVERNOR

PHONE: (207) 287-3531 (VOICE) 888-577-6690 (TTY)FAX: (207) 287-1034WEB WWW.MAINE.GOV

MAINE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • January 5, 2018 3


Exhibitor Name Booth NumbersA1 Infrared Technologies, Inc. ...... LobbyAcadia Insurance ................................... 78AgMatters LLC ....................................... 69American National Insurance .............. 13Anderson Group ...............58,59,60,61,62,63Aroostook County Farm Bureau .......... 11Arthur Carroll Insurance Agency .......110Austin Associates, P.A. ........................... 5Bacon Farm Maple Products, LLC ....... 91Bartlettyarns, Inc. .......................... 111,112BCM Environmental & Land Law, PLLC .................................. 84Best-Way Wood Heat .............................145Boer Goat Breeders of Maine ...............128Brownfield Equipment .................. 150,151Casella Organics ...............................56, 57CDL Maple ...................................... 152-153Central Petroleum Co. - Cen-Pe-Co Lubricants ............................................ 97Coastal Enterprises, Inc. ....................... 85

Exhibitor Name Booth NumbersCommunity Health Options.................. 89Conservation Law Foundation ............. 68Crave Food Systems ..............................115Crop Production Services ....................... 2Dairy One ................................................ 79Dale A Thomas & Sons Inc ...................109Farm Credit East, ACA ........................... 6Farmers Draft Horse, Mule & Pony Club ........................................143Fedco Seeds, Inc. .................................... 88Feed Commodities International, Inc. 114Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) .. 51G.B. Equipments Inc .............................154GEA Houle Farm Technologies ........22,35Gerald Foss and Sons Inc ..119,120,121,122Gold Star Feed and Grain ....................... 7Greater Portland Council of Governments ......................................126Gregg Auctions ................................ LobbyHammond Tractor Co. .....19,20,21,36,37,38

Exhibitor Name Booth NumbersHannaford Supermarket ......................158Harness Racing Promotion Board ........ 72Ingraham Equipment .......116,117,124, 125J I Case ........................................... 118, 123J.S Woodhouse Co., Inc ............46,47,74,75Janet’s Agricultural Tours & Travel Services ................................ 76Johnny’s Selected Seeds ........................ 53Kennebec Valley Community College . 52Kent Nutrition Group ...........................127Kooljet ..................................................... 49Kramer’s Inc .....................23,24,25,32,33,34Kubota Tractor Corp..........................18,39Kuhn North America .......15,16,17,40,41,42Leader Evaporator Co., Inc. .......... 156-157Living Acres ........................................... 65Luces Meats ...........................................160Maine AgrAbility-University of Maine Cooperative Extension ......................132Maine Agricultural & Forest Experiment Station-University of Maine..............137Maine Agricultural Mediation Program ............................................... 67Maine Agriculture in the Classroom ..................................... LobbyMaine Alpaca Association ...................102Maine Antique Tractor Club ...............155Maine Aquaculture Association............. 3Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs ..................................................... 71Maine Association of Conservation Districts ................................................ 73Maine Beef Producers Association .....103Maine Bug Watch- Invasive Pest .......... 80Maine Cheese Guild ............................... 77Maine Dairy Industry Association (MDIA) .................................................141Maine Dairy Promotion Board/Nutrition Council ................................................142Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry ......... LobbyMaine Farm Bureau .............................. 12Maine Farmland Trust .......................... 82Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets ................................................ 45Maine Grain Alliance ............................ 55Maine Grains .......................................... 64Maine Landscape & Nursery Association Ornamental Horticulture Council....129

Exhibitor Name Booth NumbersMaine Pork Producers..........................159Maine Sheep Breeders Association ........ 1Maine State Beekeepers Association ..... 8Maine State Grange ............................... 48Maine State Pomological Society/ Maine Vegetable & Small Fruit Growers Association .......................................... 70Maine Sustainable Agriculture Society .................................................. 43Maine Tree Farm Committee ................. 4Maine Warden Service .......................... 50Maine Winery Guild .............................101Mainely Nu Pulse ................................... 92Maine Maple Producers ......................9,10Misty Acres Alpaca Farm ..................... 94MOFGA ................................................... 66New England Galloway Group ............100Northeast Livestock Expo ..................... 44Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative ..113Paris Farmers Union ..................... 104,105Pen Bay Tractor ........................26,27,30,31Poulin Grain, Inc ................................... 83ReVision Energy, LLC ........................... 54Rimol Greenhouse Systems .................149SARE ....................................................... 90Scythe Supply ........................................144Suga Country Products .....................86,87U.S. Department of Labor: Wage & Hour Division ............................... LobbyUMaine Cooperative Extension-Maine Risk Management and Crop Insurance Education Program ..................... 130,131Union Farm Equipment, Inc .............28,29United Farmer Veterans of Maine ....... 14University of Maine Cooperative Extension ...............................138,139,140University of Maine-School of Food and Agriculture ..................................136USDA Rural Development ..................... 81USDA, Farm Service Agency ...............147USDA, NASS - NERO ............................146USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service .................................................148Waterman Farm Machinery ...........106,107,108,133,134,135Wellscroft Fence Systems, LLC ........98,99Windy Hill Restoration ......................... 93Wood-Mizer .........................................95,96

2018 Exhibitors


151 150 149 148 147 146 145 144 143 142 141 140 139 138 137 136

152-153 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135

120 119 118 117 116 115 114 113 112 111 110 109 108 107 106154

155 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105

Animal 90 89 88 87 86 85 84 83 82 81 80 79 78 77 76Entrance156-157

61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 45

158 4460 59 58 57 56 55 54 53 52 51 50 49 48 47 46

159 43

160 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42

28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Lobby Area

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2018 MAP


Agricultural Career FairAndroscoggin/Aroostook/Cumberland Room

9 a.m. - NoonCultivating Career Connections in the Agricultural Community – The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, in collaboration with the Maine Department of Labor (DOL), are pleased to announce the return of the Agricultural Career Fair. DOL and their workforce partners will have staff available to meet with employers and job seekers, provide one-on-one consultations, training resources and information about the Maine-at-Work Initiative, and answer questions in regards to career development and building a stronger agricultural labor force. Employers will be present, and job seekers are encouraged to bring their job application materials, such as resumes and cover letters, to the Career Fair.

Maine Sustainable Agriculture Society Annual Meeting

Hancock Room

9 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.Remote Environmental Monitoring and Impact Investing on Maine Farms – The Maine Sustainable Year Round Agriculture Cluster Initiative is an agricultural development project that is convening farmers, business leaders and visionaries from the energy, cleantech, and composites sectors to test new technologies on Maine farms, buildings and greenhouses. Technologies are being targeted to save farmers money and reduce energy consumption, while increasing production and year-round workforce opportunities.This session will provide a refined look at

technology concepts poised for commercialization and economic development and leadership roles for Maine farmers. We’ll highlight the importance of remote environmental monitoring and farm records.Key technology concepts include:

• Low-cost/high detail remote monitoring and automation

• Integrated renewable energy production• Localized heating and carbon fuel efficiency• Hydroponic vs. soil based off season

production• Composite framing• Active heating walls for barns, storage

buildings and greenhousesPresenter: William Giordano, Education Coordinator

9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.Question and Answer Session

10:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.More Maine Meat UpdatePresenter: Nanne Kennedy

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Annual Meeting and Election of Officers

11:30 a.m. – 1:50 p.m.Break

1:50 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.Welcome and Introduction to MESAS: Farming in a New Weather Reality – Organized by the University of Maine Climate & Agriculture NetworkModerator: Ellen Mallory, University of Maine

2 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.Introduction to Session and the Farmer Panel

2:10 p.m. – 2:40 p.m.Farmer Panel – Six farmers (apples, bees, dairy, sheep, turf, and vegetables) will describe how changes in weather patterns or extremes

have affected their operation, how they have coped, what changes they have implemented as a result, and what would help them cope better in the future.

2:50 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.Open Discussion – A facilitated discussion will address topics such as the following, as well as audience interests. What other impacts have others experienced due to shifts in weather patterns? What changes have people made on the farm to adapt to these shifts in weather? What weather-forecasting resources do people currently use?

3:20 p.m. – 3:40 p.m.Introduction to Resources and Strategies in Maine – Participants from different organizations, agencies, and institutions will describe what resources and strategies are currently available in Maine to help farmers manage issues related to weather.

3:40 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.Conclusion and 5-minute survey

*One Pesticide credit will be offered for attending afternoon program

Maine Board of Pesticides Control: Pesticide Applicator Recerti� cation - (1 credit each hour)

Kennebec/Penobscot Room

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Farmer Adaptation to Changing Weather Presenter: Glen Koehler, UMCE

10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Managing Transgenic Corn in a No-Till Production System: Reducing Chances for ResistancePresenter: John Jemison, UMaine

1:30 p.m. -2:30 p.m.Pollinators and AgriculturePresenter: Eric Venturini, Farm Bill Pollinator Conservationist and NRCS Partner Biologist

2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.Plant Diseases Seen in 2017Presenter: Alicyn Smart, UMCE

BFRN Networking RoomKnox Room

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Farmers are welcomed to connect one-on-one with farmers and agricultural service providers and find resources for farm business success.The Beginning Farmer Resource Network of Maine (BFRN) a coalition of Maine agricultural agencies & organizations working together to connect aspiring and beginning farmers to resources for farm business success.

Maine Cheese Guild Meeting, Sodexo & MOFGA Meeting

Lincoln Room

Maine Cheese Guild Meeting

10 a.m. - NoonMaine Cheese Guild: Supporting and Growing the Cheesemaking Community in Maine – Do you want to make cheese? Already do and want to network with other Maine cheesemakers? Learn about what the Maine Cheese Guild does, and how we are growing and supporting cheesemaking in Maine. The first hour will be an introduction to the guild and Q & A and the second hour will be our regular guild meeting where we’ll talk about our 2018 plans including cheesemaking workshops, events like the Maine Cheese Festival, and more!Presenters: Maine Cheese Guild members

Sodexo Meeting

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.Sodexo’s Maine Course: A Local Purchasing Initiative – In most communities, institutions are the largest food buyers, presenting considerable market potential for local producers. In this session, attendees will learn about the Maine Course Sodexo’s commitment to having a positive economic impact in Maine through local purchasing. More importantly, attendees will learn about the local food tracking tools built in order to quantify Sodexo’s institutional demand in Maine and how that information is used to support production planning in state. An in-depth look at how purchasing data can inform farmers of potential market demand. The objective of this session will be to learn about how one food service company is approaching local food at a statewide level, to understand how tracking purchases can inform the food system on institutional demand and how we can improve our communication throughout that system.Presenter: Maeve McInnis, Maine Course Director, Sodexo

MOFGA Meeting

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.Flower Forum – An open discussion for flower growers, bring your questions and ideas and share them with other producers. A discussion of Maine’s new Flower Conference will be included.Moderator: Dave Colson, MOFGA

Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG) Meeting, Maine Standardbred

Breeders & Owners Association Oxford Room

GPCOG Meeting

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.Rural Energy for America Program: Grants and Loans for Farmers and Rural Small Businesses – The Rural Energy for America

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is excited to once again offer this pre-trades show wholesale networking and meeting opportunity. This year the event is open to all wholesale producers’ categories who are members of this year’s sponsor, get real. get Maine!

Maine wholesale producers and local wholesale buyers will have the opportunity for quick introductions to

discuss future sales opportunities. Maine service providers will also be present to help answer questions on wholesale resources in Maine. Sign-up for this event is free, however space is limited and advance sign-up is required. Please keep in mind this event will fill up fast and is open to multiple product categories this year. Please contact [email protected] to be a part of this event.

Producer One-on-One Meetings Buying Opportunities

Monday, January 8th, 2018 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM • Augusta Civic Center

Tuesday January 9th


Program (REAP) is administered by USDA Rural Development and provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems (RES) or to make energy efficiency improvements (EEI). Typical RES projects include solar, biomass, and geothermal installations. This presentation will focus on eligible projects and how to access financing for your energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Presenter: Jennifer Brennan, Greater Portland Council of Governments

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.REAP and Biomass Technologies: Opportunities for Maine Rural Small Businesses and Farmers – Maine has a well-known legacy of biomass-based industries that serve many sectors of its economy, including pulp and paper, wood processing, wood pellet manufacturing, etc., but did you know of all of the many technologies that qualify as “biomass” that are eligible for federal grant funding up to $500k for your business or farming operations? The Rural Energy for America Program aims to fund not only energy efficiency projects but also renewable energy projects, including many varieties that qualify as biomass energy.Attend this session to hear more about which technologies are being funded as biomass energy, many for the first times, including:

1. Biomass boilers of all sizes, including micro2. Biomass-fired kilns3. Combined Heat and Power generators that

use wood or other biomass fuels4. Wood pellet or brick manufacturing

(mechanical presses)5. Anaerobic digesters6. Biodiesel and ethanol refineries and

production Fuels that qualify as biomass include wood, plant material, manure (chicken, cow, etc.), and algae, among others.Presenter: Sue Jones, President, Community Energy Partners and sub-contractor to the Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG)

Maine Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association Meeting

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.Breeding and Nutrition PresentationPresenter: TBA

Maine Organic Farmers and GardenersAssociation Meeting

Piscataquis/Sagadahoc Room

9 a.m. – 10 a.m.Organic Pricing: Past, Present, and Future – In this session, Omand will share the initial results of her analysis of organic pricing over the past decade in Maine - looking at price fluctuations, inflation, and a variety of crops and products. She will also discuss 2017 pricing as it relates to different market types (CSA, farmers’ markets, and wholesale), seasonal changes, and regions of the state. The future component of the session will come from discussion with whoever is in the room... what is the future of organic pricing as it relates to the national market increase in demand and supply?Presenter: Heather Omand, MOFGA

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.Nutrient Management Planning in Organic Systems: Balancing soil health with water quality protection – This presentation will

focus on the basic technical issues of nutrient management planning as they relate to using organic matter-based materials to build soil health and fertility while protecting water quality. It will cover the benefits to soil fertility and soil health of a wide variety of organic materials including composts, digestates and manures. The presentation will also go over matching soil amendments with crop needs, methods for calculating and reducing erosion potential in agricultural fields and using a phosphorus index to help reduce phosphorus risks to water quality when using soils amendments containing phosphorus. This presentation will help to demonstrate nutrient management planning methods that balance improving soil health with water quality.Presenter: Anne Hallee, Northern Tilth

11 a.m. – NoonLow Impact Forestry and Woodlot Farm Management – Panel will include Peter Hagerty, co-founder of MOFGA’s Low Impact Forestry Project, and members of the organization fielding questions about the Maine forest ecosystem’s unique and critical ability to safely store carbon and help curb global warming.Presenter: Panel lead by Peter Hagerty

1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.MOFGA Annual Meeting (Piscataquis/ Sagadahoc) – Hear from MOFGA Staff, Board Members and Committee Chairs regarding the organization’s activities and accomplishments over the past year. Elect MOFGA’s Board of Directors for the coming year and network with members.

ReVision Energy Meeting and Maine Technology Institute Meeting

Somerset Room

11 a.m. - NoonSolar Energy for Maine Farms, Businesses & Homeowners – Learn how Maine’s farms, business and homeowners are using solar energy within their day-to-day business operations and everyday lives.Presenter: Holly Noyes

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.Innovation Funding: Grants, Loans, and Equity – An Overview of MTI ProgramsPresenters: Scott Bursey, Director of Investment Operations and Joe Migliaccio, Director of Business Development

Nutrient Management Program MeetingWaldo

Each one-hour talk qualifies for 1 Nutrient Management Recertification Credit. Starred (*)

talks qualify for 1 CCA/CpAg Credit.

10 a.m. - 11 a.m. A New Approach to the Evaluation and Design of Vegetated Stormwater Runoff Treatment Buffers* Presenter: David P. Rocque, State Soil Scientist, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.The Updated Chapter 565 Maine Nutrient Management Rules – Changes & Clarifications* Presenter: Mark F. Hedrich, Nutrient Management Program Manager, Maine

Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.Enhancing Community Food Security Through On-Farm Use of Discarded Organics*Presenter: Mark A. King, Environmental Specialist, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Remediation and Waste Management, Materials Management Sustainability Unit

Maine Organic Farmers and GardenersAssociation Meeting

Washington/York Room

* Counts for one recertification credit for Pesticide Applicator Licenses.

9 a.m. - 10 a.m.Organic Certification Basics and Compliance Q&A – Join staff from MOFGA Certification Services as they discuss the basics of certifying your operation as organic to the USDA National Organic Program standards and answer your certification questions. Topics will include the application process, review of the Organic System Plan (OSP), the Federal Cost Share Rebate program, and the Materials Review process among others. Presenters: MOFGA Certification Staff

10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Commercial Dairy Value-Added Licensing Q&A – Join us in discussing ways to produce value-added goods for your operation in order to help offset the recent price cuts to commercial dairy. Presenter: TBA, Moderator: Jacki Perkins

11 a.m. - NoonPlant Diseases Seen in 2017 – The most common diseases submitted to the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Pant Disease Diagnostic Lab will be presented. Detailed information on those diseases will include symptoms, life cycle, and management to help you for the 2018 growing season. Presenter: Alicyn Smart D.P.M., Assistant Extension Professor & Plant Pathologist

1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. MOFGA Annual Meeting (Piscataquis/ Sagadahoc)

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.Cooperative Vegetation Management Agreement – Has Certification told you that you need a “No-Spray Agreement”, but you’re not sure where to start? Mooseman has been working on a state program to make it easy for organic producers and Maine DOT to communicate their needs to each other. He also has valuable information on standard procedures for other entities that may be chemically controlling vegetation in your area.Presenter: Robert Mooseman, Maine Department of Transportation

Maine Board of Pesticides Control: Pesticide Applicator Exam Training for Growers

**Pre-Registration is Required

Ft. Western Room

9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.Check-in

9:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m.Core Exam Training

2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Proctored Core Exam Testing

Maine Christmas Tree Association Meeting

Arnold Room

8:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.Registration: Pre-registration recommended. Coffee, etc.

9 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.President’s Welcome

9:15 a.m. – 11 a.m.MCTA Annual Business Meeting:Committee Reports:

TreasurerExecutive SecretaryWebsiteNCTASeed OrchardPesticides/OHCLegislative/AGCOMPublic Relations/Fryeburg FairMCTA Scholarship Presentation

11 a.m. - NoonSession I

Noon - 1:30 p.m.Lunch

1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. Session II

2:45 p.m. - 4 p.m.Session III

4 p.m.Meeting Adjourned

Maine Milk Commission Meeting & WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

Howard Room

Maine Milk Commission Meeting

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.Maine Milk Commission Industry Update: Talks on milk pricePresenter: Bob Wellington and Eric Rasmussen

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Special Meeting: Price forecasts for 2018

WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

Noon – 3 p.m.WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program – This session will give insight on WIC’s purpose, eligible foods, requirements, and process. Enroll to become a Maine WIC farmer.Presenter: Ana Pedre, Vendor Specialist


Beginning Farmer ResourceNetwork (BFRN) Conference

Androscoggin/Aroostook/Cumberland Room

9 a.m. – Noon“What does it mean to be a ‘Beginning Farmer’ from 2018 to 2028” – Are you in your first 10 years of farming? Are you getting ready to begin farming? Please come to this free, half-day conference! 9:00-speed networking for farmers and service providers; 10:00 – a panel of farmers and service providers discuss the typical challenges and growth phases of the first 10 years of any farm/farm business. 11:00 - inspiration and humor provided by featured speaker/author/farmer, Lucie B. Amundsen, of Locally Laid Egg Company, a family-run, mission-based farm in Wrenshall, Minnesota. Farmers, Service Providers and Featured Speaker: Lucie B. Amundsen

Beginning Farmer ResourceNetwork Workshop

Androscoggin Room

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.Circle Up... Designing your Employee Handbook and Worker Training Plan – Develop a draft employee handbook and pick-up forms, payroll service resources, daily meeting tips and templates, and resources on effective communication strategies. Presenters: Jason Lilley & Leslie Forstadt, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, with Polly Shyka of Villageside Farm in Freedom

Beginning Farmer Resource Network Workshop

Aroostook Room

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.Get Going with QuickBooks Pro – Introduction to QuickBooks including chart of accounts, customers, vendor bills and bank reconciliation. This workshop is for first-time users and those with little QuickBooks experience. The last hour will be for one-on-one assistance with a Pro Advisor. Participants will be entered in a drawing for a QuickBooks Pro subscription. Limited to 18 participants.Presenters: QuickBooks Pro Advisors from Austin Associates and Erin Roche, University of Maine Cooperative Extension

Beginning Farmer ResourceNetwork WorkshopCumberland Room

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.From Recipe to Market: How to Start a Specialty Food Business in Maine – Specialty food producers—often operating home-based microenterprises—are a growing Maine industry. Yet starting a Maine home-based food business will require you to face challenges including licensing, food safety, and building business skills. In addition, some recipes and food products for sale may need to be sent to UMaine for testing.Presenters: Dr. Beth Calder; Dr. James McConnon; Dr. Louis Bassano; University of Maine Cooperative Extension

Maine Food Strategy MeetingHancock Room

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.Maine Food Strategy Marketing Panel & Discussion – This session will discuss how producers and small grocery stores can increase marketing efforts and best practices to showcase and increase purchases of Maine products. Organizations with resources for marketing, as well as those who have been successful with marketing endeavors, will speak and facilitate discussion with farmers and producers on the value and benefits of marketing their businesses. Businesses and Farmers are encouraged to attend and ask questions and make connections to increase their sales and raise demand and profile for local Maine food products.Session Goals:

• Provide high-level information on marketing: What it is, different channels, what ROI you can get, how it can expand your business and customer base.

• Use best practices and examples of success to showcase the benefits of marketing investments

• Create opportunities to connect with marketing resources and professionals

Panelists: Various


9 a.m. – 7 p.m.Farmers are welcomed to connect one-on-one with farmers and agricultural service providers and find resources for farm business success.

The Beginning Farmer Resource Network of Maine (BFRN) a coalition of Maine agricultural agencies & organizations working together to connect aspiring and beginning farmers to resources for farm business success.

Maine Board of Pesticides Control: PesticidesApplicator Recerti� cation


9 a.m. – 10 a.m.Potato Pest Management UpdatePresenter: Jim Dwyer, UMCE

10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.Recent Ornamental Pests: UMaine Insect ID Lab SamplesPresenter: Clay Kirby, UMCE

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.BPC UpdatePresenter: BPC Staff

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.Keep Pests Out of Your Post-Harvest StoragePresenter: Kathy Murray, DACF

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.Board of Pesticides Control Meeting

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Open Forum for Growers, Applicators and the Public—BPC

5 p.m. - 6 p.m.BPC Meeting, continued

WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and United Farmer Veterans of Maine Meeting

Lincoln Room

WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program – This session will give insight on WIC’s purpose, eligible foods, requirements, and process. Enroll to become a Maine WIC farmer. This session will give insight on WIC’s purpose, eligible foods, requirements, and process. Enroll to become a Maine WIC farmer.Presenter: Ana Pedre, Vendor Specialist

United Farmer Veterans of Maine Meeting

2 p.m. – 7 p.m.United Farmer Veterans of Maine Annual Meeting

Maine State Florists’ and Growers’ AssociationOxford Room

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Biological Control in the University of Maine Greenhouses – Since the spring of 2014, the research and teaching programs at the University of Maine have used biological control to manage pests in the campus greenhouses. Using a variety of predators, parasites, and pathogens to control insects and mites has been

Wednesday January 10th


effective in year-round production. It has also allowed students to be engaged in pest control. Dr. Stephanie Burnett will describe the program that they use at the University of Maine and highlight some of their successes and the challenges they have faced during implementation. Presenter: Dr. Stephanie Burnett, University of Maine

*This session has been approved for one pesticide recertification credit.

12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.Lunch (on your own)

12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.Cut Flower Growing for the Professional Market – What are florists and freelance designers looking for? How can you market your product to them? Do you have time for this project? Cullen Schneider is the owner of Fairwinds Florist, a Blue Hill based, full service florist with more than 60 years or service to the Blue Hill Peninsula. Cullen is an accomplished floral designer, with certifications from the Maine State Florists and Growers Association (mmfd) and the American Institute of Floral Design (AIFD). In 2007 she began growing product to fill her flower cooler. Her farm enters its 11th growing season in 2018 with more than 50 varieties on the docket and a goal of 75% local product for the “peak season”. Cullen Schneider, Fairwinds Florist

2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.Planning & Planting – This talk will focus on scheduling your beneficials to line up with your annual/ vegetable production. Jeff will be presenting and others may join him. Jeff Marstaller, Cozy Acres Greenhouses

3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.Miners, Mercenaries, and Magicians: Horticultural Actors (Pests) and Issues in Maine – There’s been quite a cast of characters, heroes and villains taking part on Maine’s horticultural stage lately. Come learn more about new and on the horizon performers to be on the lookout for in 2018, and get updates on what’s been happening with some former scoundrels we haven’t heard from in a while.Presenters: Carole Neil and Sarah Scally, Asst. Horticulturists, Maine Dept. of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry

*This session has been approved for one pesticide recertification credit.

Registration for the day: $10 for Members of MSFGA/ MMGGA, $25 for Non-members.

Contact Katey Campbell @ 207-756-5553 or [email protected] for more information.

Maine Winery Guild, Maine Grass Farmers Network, and Bartlettyarns, Inc. Meeting

Piscataquis Room

Maine Winery Guild Meeting

9 a.m. – NoonMaine Winery Guild Informational Meeting

Maine Grass Farmers Network Meeting

Noon – 1 p.m.Using the No-Till Drill – Farmers who have used the drill for the past few years will speak about what worked and what didn’t, and we will also discuss the logistics of renting it.

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.Revitalize Your Pasture and Hay Fields – Richard Kersbergen from Maine Cooperative Extension will share his experience working with farmers that are using planting and other management tools to improve the production of forages in their fields.

Bartlettyarns, Inc. Meeting

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.Session I-Basics of Selecting a Hand Spinning Fleece – Interested in spinning and what makes a hand spinning fleece? Join Bartlettyarns as they guide you thru some of the basics of what to look for in selection, project need and preparation. This presentation gives a basic insight into the world of fleece. Interaction and questions are encouraged. Stay on for Session II to learn about your fiber processing options and what Bartlettyarns new services can offer.Presenters: Lindsey/Susan Rice, Owners-Bartlettyarns

4 p.m. – 5 p.m.Session II- Got Fiber? Now What? – Bartlettyarns was the recipient of a 2016 grant from the NSIIC to purchase a 1950’s Scouring Train developed by MIT. Join Bartlettyarns as they take you thru a journey of processing individual fleeces and whole lot fleeces into roving and yarn. Learn about the steps you can take to value add to your farm fiber products and what additional services Bartlettyarns has to offer, including custom spinning and weaving.Presenters: Lindsey/Susan Rice, Owners-Bartlettyarns

Maine Farmland Trust, Maine Landscape and Nursery Association (MELNA) & Maine Beef

Producers Association MeetingSagadahoc Room

Maine Farmland Trust Meeting

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Using Conservation Easements as a Component of a Farm Purchase – To make land more affordable, many farm buyers are working with Maine Farmland Trust to sell a conservation easement as part of their land acquisition strategy. The sale of an easement simultaneously with the purchase of a property

can often lower a buyer’s costs significantly. This workshop will cover the basic restrictions of agricultural conservation easements, how easements are negotiated between farmland owners and a land trust, and how simultaneous conservation easement sales work. Presenters will cover how to discuss this strategy with real estate agents and lenders, the time frame of this process, and how compensation for a conservation easement is assessed. The session will use real examples to illustrate the impact that the sale of an easement can have on a buyer’s costs.Presenters: Tricia Rouleau and Nina Young, MFT Land Protection Staff

Maine Landscape and Nursery Association Meeting

11 a.m. – NoonPlant Something! Plant Maine! Learn More and Join Now. – All Maine agriculture organizations are invited to attend this panel discussion. Learn how Plant Something! Plant Maine! is growing Maine’s horticulture industry and how you can get involved.Presenters: Tom Estabrook, Independent Ga rden Centers of Maine; Mark Faunce, Maine Flower Show; Willie Grenier, Maine Agriculture in the Classroom; and Moderator Don Sproul, Maine Landscape & Nursery Association

Maine Beef Producers Association Meeting

1 p.m. - 3 p.m.Educational Presentations

3 p.m. – 4 p.m. MBPA Annual Meeting

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.MBPA Board Meeting

Maine Forest Service, ReVision Energy, Natural Resources Conservation Service,

Maine Sheep Breeders Association Meeting Somerset Room

Maine Forest Service Meeting

10 a.m. – NoonNurturing Carnivore Co-existence & Biodiversity on Your Farm – Farming successfully with carnivores is not just about using good animal husbandry practices. It is also about understanding the ecology of the carnivores on your farm, and managing the habitats that enable them and their prey to live stable lives. The result is a healthy, biodiverse landscape on your farm. Come join us as a collaboration of forester, ecologist, farmer and carnivore biologist share how this all works together.Presenters: Geri Vistein, carnivore biologist; Abby Sadauckas, livestock farmer; Deb Perkins, wildlife biologist; Andy Shultz, forester

ReVision Energy Meeting

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.Solar Energy for Maine Farms, Businesses & Homeowners – Learn how Maine’s farms, business and homeowners are using solar energy within their day-to-day business operations and everyday lives.Presenter: Holly Noyes


Natural Resources Conservation Service Meeting

2:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.NRCS Meeting – The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will host an afternoon of talks for Maine landowners on financial and technical opportunities with the USDA. Topics will include: pollinator conservation and habitat enhancement; USDA benefits; highly erodible lands/wetlands compliance provisions (with Farm Service Agency); stream crossing improvement opportunities; reduced tillage and cover crop opportunities; forestry opportunities; and NRCS Programs information. Speakers will include NRCS-Maine State Resource Conservationist Tony Jenkins.

Maine Sheep Breeders Association Meeting

5 p.m. - 6 p.m.Maine Scrapie Board Meeting: Annual meeting of the Maine Scrapie Board

6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Maine Sheep Breeders Association Meeting: Annual Scrapie Meeting and Maine Sheep Breeders business meeting

Nutrient Management Program Meeting Waldo Room

Each one-hour talk qualifies for 1 Nutrient Management Recertification Credit. Starred (*) talks qualify for 1 CCA/CpAg Credit.

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.Manure Management for Equine and Small Livestock Producers - Why Should You Care?* Presenters: Rick Kersbergen, Extension Educator and Professor, University of Maine Cooperative Extension; Alice Begin, Resource Conservationist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service

11 a.m. - NoonAvailability and Efficiency of Applied Phosphorus*Presenter: Bruce Hoskins, Soil Scientist and Director, University of Maine Soil Testing and Analytical Laboratory

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.A Discussion of the Phosphorus Index for Nutrient Management; and Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Financial Assistance Programs for your Agricultural Operation*. Presenters: Tony Jenkins, State Resource Conservationist and Soil Scientist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; Buster Carter, Resource Conservationist - Programs, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.Using Permaculture Techniques to Improve Water Quality While Adding Value*Presenter: John Maclaine, Environmental Specialist, Division of Environmental Assessment, Maine Department of Environmental Protection

Maine Maple Producers Association Meeting Washington/York Room

8:55 a.m. – 9 a.m.Introductions and Greetings; Syrup contest entries due at booth!Presenter: Lyle Merrifield 9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.Maple Food Safety: How to Write a Plan Presenter: Kathy Hopkins

9:15 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.Economics of the World Maple Industry Presenter: Dr. George Criner, University of Maine

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.Nutrition and Health Benefits, Marketing and Social Media Presenter: Ray Bonenberg, President, International Maple Syrup Institute

11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Maple Round Table: What’s New in the Sugarbush Producer panel discussion

11:30 a.m. – NoonNew England Ag Statistics Update Presenter: Gary Keough, Director, New England Ag Statistics

Noon - 1:00 p.m.Lunch Break 1:00 p.m. -2:30 p.m.Annual Meeting: Secretary and Treasurer Reports, Committee Reports, Maple Contest, Election of Officers, Old and New Business

2:30 p.m.Visit Trade Show

Maine Vegetable & Small Fruit Growers Association Annual Meeting

Ft. Western Room

9 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Maine Vegetable & Small Fruit Growers Association Welcome and AnnouncementsPresenter: Lauchlin Titus, President MVSFGA

9:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.Highmoor Farm Trials: Melons, Onions, Pumpkins, Sweet Corn, and MorePresenters: Mark Hutton, David Handley, University of Maine Cooperative Extension

10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Food Safety Modernization Act and GAP Update and DeadlinesPresenter: Linda Titus, AgMatters

11 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. MVSFGA Business MeetingPresenter: Lauchlin Titus, President, Presiding

11:30 a.m. - NoonWhole Farm Revenue ProtectionPresenter: Erin Roche, University of Maine Cooperative Extension

Noon – 12:30 p.m.Farm Safety: What’s Under Your Fields?Presenters: Pipeline Safety Alliance

12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lunch on your own

1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. New Vegetable Varieties, Focus on Disease ResistancePresenters: Tom Lewandowski, Harris Seeds; Lauchlin Titus, Seedway; Luke Donahue, Johnny’s Selected Seeds

2:15 p.m. – 3 p.m.Starting a New Raspberry Operation and Marketing PlanPresenters: Lucie Amdunsen, Locally Laid Farm & Farm Lola, MN

3 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.Potato Disease UpdatePresenter: Alicyn Smart, University of Maine Cooperative Extension 3:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. A Visit to Laughing Stock Farm Presenters: Linda & Ralph Turner, Freeport, Maine

4 p.m.Adjourn MVSFGA – Pesticide applicator credits will be offered for attending the program.

There will be a $10.00 registration fee for non-members to attend the meeting.

Maine State Pomological Society Annual Winter Meeting

Arnold/Howard Room

9 a.m. - 9:05 a.m. Welcome and Introductions Presenter: Aaron Libby

9:05 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. NC140 Rootstock Trial Update & Short Talk on Breeding New Apple VarietiesPresenters: Dr. Renae Moran & Caroline Bonenfant (intern)

9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.Cross-Commodity SWD ControlPresenter: Crop Production Services

10:45 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.Maine State Pomological Society Business Meeting and ElectionsPresenter: Aaron Libby, President 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.Break: Lunch on your own

12:45 p.m. – 1 p.m.Highmoor UpdatePresenter: Dr. Mark Hutton

1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.Tree Fruit Pests UpdatePresenter: Glen Koehler

1:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.Perennial Weed Control in Perennial CropsPresenter: Dr. David Yarborough (represented by Jennifer Dappolonio, Research Assistant)

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.TBD

Maine Woodland Owners Annual Meeting and Forestry Forum

Augusta/Capitol/Pine Tree Room

8:00 a.m. -8:30 a.m. Coffee and Informal Discussion with Board members and Staff

8:30 a.m. -9:30 a.m. Annual Meeting – Update of activities, plans for 2018, awards, legislative update, and election of board members and officers. (Door prizes)

9:30 a.m.Adjourn Annual Meeting

9:30 a.m. -10:00 a.m.Tree Growth Tax Law-fact and fiction – Tom Doak will separate fact from fiction concerning the Tree Growth Tax Law Program, focusing on the predominant misunderstandings in the law.

10:00 a.m. -10:45 a.m.The Best Apps for Woodland Owners to use on Tablets and Smart Phones – Casey Olechnowicz, a graduate student from the University of Maine, will be sharing his research on top picks for smart devices and suggested apps available to woodland owners.

10:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.Their Land, Their Legacy – Jessica Leahy, Board President and Professor from the University of Maine will share a new publication for towns, conservation commissions, land trusts and others who want to help landowners with succession or conservation estate planning.

10:45 a.m. -11:45 a.m.Author Michael Wojtech will be on hand to talk about his book Bark, and be available to sign copies at the meeting. Wojtech’s book provides information on structure and ecology of tree bark, descriptions of bark appearance, an easy-to-use identification key, and supplemental information on non-bark characteristics—all enhanced by over 450 photographs, illustrations, and maps

11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Lunch-Available for purchase in the meeting room

12:30 p.m. -1:00 p.m.Austin Wilkins Award

1:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. The Northeast by Eastern – Sumner McKane combines Eastern Illustrating and Publishing Company’s comprehensive collection of early 20th century photographs of rural New England and Upstate New York, with archival film footage, interviews, oral histories and live music.

2:15 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Invasive Plants– Nancy Olmstead will be on hand to inform landowners about invasive plants, including identification, characteristics, and methods for control.

3:00 p.m. -3:15 p.m.Tree Farm Awards including Maine 2018 Outstanding Tree Farmer; Door Prizes and Adjourn


Thursday January 11th

Beginning Farmer Resource Network MeetingAndroscoggin Room

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.Put down roots! Start to plan and write that farm or farmland lease. – Practice your negotiating skills, learn about the legal rights and responsibilities of the Lessor and the Lessee, and roll-up your sleeves to design and write the lease for that farm or farmland you are seeking.Presenters: Jo Barrett, Land for Good; Elaine Bourne, Maine Agricultural Mediation Program; and an attorney from the Legal Food Hub of the Conservation Law Foundation.

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.Make a note of it... Production Record Keeping – Come to develop templates and plans for improving record keeping strategies. Extension Educators and Farmers will discuss the tools that work well for them, and the types of records that are important to keep. Nutrient Management Plans, MOFGA certification records, and general production records will also be discussed.Presenters: Jason Lilley & Donna Coffin, University of Maine Cooperative Extension; Keena Tracy, Little Ridge Farm, Lisbon Falls; and Mark Hedrich, from the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.

Maine Nutrition Council & Maine Pork Producers Annual Meeting

Aroostook Room

Maine Nutrition Council Meeting

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Trends in the Specialty Food Industry – This workshop will feature a discussion on the specialty food industry including important food trends that are driving sales. The presenter will discuss key attitudes and habits of Millennials and suggest ways that food manufacturers can market to this important consumer group. In addition, the differences between Millennials, Gen X’ers, and Baby Boomers will be explored. Pre-register by email to [email protected]: Louis Bassano, UMaine Extension

Maine Pork Producers Annual Meeting

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.Annual Business Meeting and Educational Session – State Veterinarian Michele Walsh will discuss requirements for tagging pigs for out-of-state sales and transporting pigs across state lines. A representative from the National Pork Board will be present, annual business meeting, and a report on Northeast Pork Association (NEPA) will also occur.Presenter: Michele Walsh, D.V.M., Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

Beginning Farmer Resource Network MeetingCumberland Room

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.Accessing Farm Capital... Shark Tank Style!– A highly interactive and friendly session for farmers to pitch their farm business expansion and/or diversification ideas to a panel of lenders & investorsPresenters: Facilitated by a business advisor with agricultural lenders and investors offering constructive feedback.

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.Find your “best fit” for Farm Business Planning & Training – Are you considering farming as a career? Have you begun farming and need to improve your business management skills? Perhaps you’ve started researching your training options and don’t know where to start. Should you apprentice? Go back to college? Register for a short course? This workshop will feature many of the beginning farmer training programs available in Maine and is designed to help participants determine their next farm training step. Come get your questions answered!Presenters: Steph Gilbert, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry; Jedediah L. Beach, MBA, FarmSmart, Owner/Operator of 3 Bug Farm, Lincolnville; Ryan Dennett, Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association; Tori Lee Jackson, University of Maine Cooperative Extension; Bo Dennis, Kennebec Valley Community College; Sarah Littlefield, Wolfe’s Neck Farm - Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship; Jerry Ireland, United Farmer Veterans of Maine.

WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition ProgramHancock Room

9 a.m. - NoonWIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program – This session will give insight on WIC’s purpose, eligible foods, requirements, and process. Enroll to become a Maine WIC farmer.Presenter: Ana Pedre, Vendor Specialist

Maine Board of Pesticides Control: PesticidesApplicator Recerti� cation


9 a.m. - 10 a.m. Wild Blueberry Management UpdatePresenters: Frank Drummond and Seanna Annis, UMaine

10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.Browntail Moth and Winter Moth: What You Need to KnowPresenter: Charlene Donahue, MFS

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.What to Expect When You’re InspectedPresenter: John Pietroski, BPC


9 a.m. – 3 p.m.Farmers are welcomed to connect one-on-one with farmers and agricultural service providers and find resources for farm business success.

The Beginning Farmer Resource Network of Maine (BFRN) a coalition of Maine agricultural agencies & organizations working together to connect aspiring and beginning farmers to resources for farm business success.

UMaine Cooperative ExtensionLincoln Room

9 a.m. - NoonSession I: Intro to QuickBooks Pro – Introduction to QuickBooks including chart of accounts, customers, vendor bills and bank reconciliation. This workshop is for first-time users and those with little QuickBooks experience. Time will be allotted for one-on-one assistance with a Pro Advisor. Participants will be entered in a drawing for a QuickBooks Pro subscription. Limited to 25 participants.Presenters: QuickBooks Pro Advisers from Austin Associates and Erin Roche, University of Maine Cooperative Extension

12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.Session II: Intro to QuickBooks Pro – Introduction to QuickBooks including chart of accounts, customers, vendor bills and bank reconciliation. This workshop is for first-time users and those with little QuickBooks experience. Time will be allotted for one-on-one assistance with a Pro Advisor. Participants will be entered in a drawing for a QuickBooks Pro subscription. Limited to 25 participants.Presenters: QuickBooks Pro Advisers from Austin Associates and Erin Roche, University of Maine Cooperative Extension

Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG) Meeting

Oxford Room

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.Rural Energy for America Program: Grants and Loans for Farmers and Rural Small Businesses: The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is administered by USDA Rural Development and provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems (RES) or to make energy efficiency improvements (EEI). Typical RES projects include solar, biomass, and geothermal installations. This presentation will focus on eligible projects and how to access financing for your energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Presenter: Jennifer Brennan, Greater Portland Council of Governments

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.REAP and Biomass Technologies: Opportunities for Maine Rural Small Businesses and Farmers: Maine has a well-known legacy of biomass-based industries that serve many sectors of its economy, including pulp and paper, wood processing, wood pellet manufacturing, etc. But did you know of all of the many technologies that qualify as “biomass” that are eligible for federal grant funding up to $500k for your business or farming operations? The Rural Energy for America Program aims to fund not only energy efficiency projects but also renewable energy projects, including many varieties that qualify as biomass energy.

Attend this session to hear more about which technologies are being funded as biomass energy, many for the first times, including:

1. Biomass boilers of all sizes, including micro2. Biomass-fired kilns3. Combined Heat and Power generators that

use wood or other biomass fuels4. Wood pellet or brick manufacturing

(mechanical presses)5. Anaerobic digesters6. Biodiesel and ethanol refineries and

production

Fuels that qualify as biomass include wood, plant material, manure (chicken, cow, etc.), and algae, among others.Presenter: Sue Jones, President, Community Energy Partners and sub-contractor to the Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG)

Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets 10th Annual Convention

*Ticketed event, pre-registration required

Piscataquis Room

9:40 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.Is Everyone Welcome at Your Market? Strategies for Making the Market More Navigable for All – Take a closer look around your market: Are there obstacles that may prevent some people from feeling comfortable and being able to move around safely? Markets often can’t change the infrastructure of their space, such as curb placement or slopes. However, there are usually simple steps that will make the market more accessible to more people, and safer for all visitors. Being accessible to individuals with mobility challenges, vision problems, hearing loss, and other obstacles makes a farmers’ market more welcoming, and broadens the shopper base. Jill S. Johanning, AIA, of Access Design, and Ketra Crosson of Alpha One Now will explore practical steps farmers’ markets of all sizes can take to be more accessible to shoppers.

12:40 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.Keynote, Lunch, MFFM Annual Meeting in Augusta/Pine Tree/Capitol

2:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.Local Food Pricing: Historical, Regional, and Market Based Differences Through the Lens of Organic – In this session, Heather Omand


will share the initial results of her analysis of organic pricing over the past decade in Maine - looking at price changes at a variety of farmers’ markets and as relates to inflation and specific products/crops. She will also discuss 2017 pricing at farmers’ markets as it relates to different market types, seasons, and regions of the state. There will be ample time for questions and group discussion to address the presentation and what is the future of pricing as it relates to the national market increase in demand and supply?



Sagadahoc Room

8:30 a.m. – 9:35 a.m.Lowering Barriers to Market Farming with No-till Techniques – Andrew Mefford, editor and publisher of Growing for Market and author of The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook, will talk about no-till farming techniques. Beginning farmers often turn to farmers’ markets early on as an important venue for selling their products. Can the no-till approach help the beginning market farmer scale up production and grow their market presence?

9:40 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.Fundraising, Friendraising, and Finding Sponsors in Your Community and Beyond –Successful fundraising isn’t about selling raffle tickets, nor is it about writing magical grant proposals. For most farmers’ markets, it’s about finding donors and business sponsors in the local community. There is tremendous fundraising opportunity even in small towns, but it’s essential to plan carefully, and use all the tools available.

10:45 a.m. – 11:35 a.m.Break


2:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.Getting Started with Maine Harvest Bucks: An Overview for 1st Year and Prospective Markets – This is the opportunity for markets new to SNAP and/or Maine Harvest Bucks to get a basic overview and have your questions answered. Note- This session is only for markets entering their first year with Maine Harvest Bucks in 2018, or considering launching a SNAP/EBT program.

3:25 p.m. – 4 p.m.Finding Yo ur Way - Discussion for Vendors New to Markets



Somerset Room

8:15 a.m. – 3:20 p.m. USDA Food & Nutrition Service Drop-InDebbie Crosby of the USDA FNS will be available all day to answer questions about SNAP implementation at farms and farmers’ markets. She will sign up new vendors on site, and will also be able to transfer FNS# assignments for markets that have changed leadership.



Waldo Room

8:15 a.m. – 3:20 p.m.DACF Scales Testing – Drop your scales off in the morning, and DACF official David Flannery will test them and certify them for the season. Cost is $5 each for most scales.



Washington/York Room

8:30 a.m. – 9:35 a.m.Planning Events that Attract Families, Energy and Attention to the Market – Kids’ passports, live music, cooking demos, sea-creature touch tanks and more…. There are many creative, manageable ways to make farmers’ markets more enticing for families and inviting for everyone in the community. Panelists will share their work in enhancing the community vibrancy at Maine markets and address the challenges and logistics to organizing high quality activities.

9:40 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.New Apps and Digital Tools for Market Management and Direct Marketing – The list of new digital tools grows longer each year, which can be both promising and confusing. This session will explore a few digital apps that can help streamline your farmers’ market work.

10:45 a.m. – 11:35 a.m.WIC Authorization Training


2:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.Law and Order: Farmers’ Market Unit – A Walk Through the Legal Issues That May Impact Your Market – Do you ever sign on the dotted line on behalf of your farmers’ market? Do you own your own farm or business, and sometimes stop to think about the legal implications if something happened at one of your markets? Or maybe you’ve heard someone is starting a new farmers’ market in the same town as yours, and there is suddenly confusion about the name. If your farmers’ market has an attorney on its advisory board who freely gives advice, you can skip this session. Otherwise, this could be the most valuable hour you spend all week. There will be plenty of time for Q&A, so bring your questions!

3:25 p.m. – 4 p.m.Feeding More Mainers Through FINI and Beyond: A SNAP Roundtable Discussion – Join MFFM and members of the Maine Local Food Access Network for a conversation on SNAP programming, funding, and what your market should be doing to sustain its program in the long-term.

University of Maine, Cooperative Extension: Grape School

Arnold/Howard Room

An Introduction to Growing Grapes in Maine

10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Why Grapes? Expectations and RoadblocksPresenter: Dr. David Handley, Vegetable & Small Fruit Specialist, UMaine Extension

10:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.The Grape Plant: A Quick Botany Lesson Presenter: Dr. David Handley Vegetable & Small Fruit Specialist, UMaine Extension

11:15 a.m. - NoonGrape Varieties for New EnglandPresenter: Dr. Terence Bradshaw, Tree Fruit & Viticulture Specialist, University of Vermont

12 p.m. – 1 p.m.LUNCH BREAK (on your own)

1 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.Preparation, Planting, Early Care and Nutrition Presenter: Dr. David Handley, Vegetable & Small Fruit Specialist, UMaine Extension

1:45 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.Pruning and Trellising OptionsPresenter: Dr. Terence Bradshaw, Tree Fruit & Viticulture Specialist, University of Vermont

2:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.Pest Identification and ManagementPresenter: Dr. David Handley

3 p.m.Questions, Discussion, Adjourn

A registration fee of $25 will be charged for participation in the Grape Workshop and space

is limited, so pre-registration is strongly advised.



Augusta/Pine Tree/Capitol Room

7:45 a.m. - 8:15 a.m.Registration

8:15 a.m. – 8:25 a.m.Welcome

8:30 a.m. – 9:35 a.m.Keeping Our Farmers’ Markets Strong: Consumer Confidence – Ronda Stone from DACF’s Quality Assurance and Regulations will talk about ways to keep Maine’s Farmers’ Markets strong by focusing on consumer confidence. Consumers want to be sure that food purchased from the markets are safe and presented honestly. Market food safety practices, licensing, food sovereignty and FSMA will be the key topics of discussion.

9:40 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.Use Smart Social Media Storytelling to Gain Followers and Keep Them Coming Back

10:45 a.m. – 11 a.m.Coffee Break

11 a.m. – 11:35 a.m.State and National Legislative Update – Staff from the Maine Farm Bureau and Representative Chellie Pingree’s office will provide updates on recent developments in state and local law that pertain to agriculture, as well as an overview of what to expect in 2018 and key areas for advocacy. This half hour session will get you up to speed on legislation that could impact your farm, small business, or farmers’ market.

11:45 a.m. – 12:40 p.m.Keynote: Keeping “Local” Competitive in the Global Market: Policies, Trends, and Resources that Will Impact Maine Farmers’ Markets – Farmers’ markets are more than places where farmers and food entrepreneurs simply hone their competitive edges. They are also our society’s best representations of “food democracy” and “living economies.” As we hack our way toward local foodsheds that are more profitable, equitable, nimble, and resilient, it is imperative that we capitalize upon the anchor role that farmers’ markets play in linking economic value to democratic values. We’ll explore how farmers markets can advance bold moves on a local level.Speaker: Philip Ackerman-Leitz: Hacking the Local Foodshed: Packing the Toolbox

12:40 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.Lunch

1:30 p.m. – 2 p.m.MFFM Annual Meeting

2:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.A Holistic Approach to Branding Your Farmers’ Market – This workshop will dig into the details of what makes for a robust, organized promotional strategy by looking at a variety of materials submitted by current Maine farmers’ markets. Arielle Bywater of Pica (a brand, strategy, and design firm in Belfast) will review real-time website, newsletter, and social media promotional messages from markets, suggesting changes that would improve their effectiveness. Turning a critical eye to your own market’s material will help determine weaknesses - and strengths - and areas where minor adjustments could have major results. Most markets rely on volunteers, often several, for outreach efforts, making this kind of assessment and planning even more crucial.

3:25 p.m. – 4 p.m.Roundtable Discussion: Highs and Lows of the 2017 Market Season


2017 was a great year for agriculture education in Maine! Over 100,000 Maine students were impacted by this funding

through $60,000 in GRANTS, VOLUNTEER READER PROJECTS for 700 classrooms, and EDUCATOR TRAININGS

for hundreds of teachers and education students!!

If you would like to volunteer, find a list of grant winners, receive the monthly E-newsletter, or learn more; Visit our booth at the Ag Trade Show or online

www.MaineAgintheClassroom.org

A HUGE salute goes out to each driver with an agriculture plate for making this

all possible!

MANY THANKS TO ALL AGRICULTURE SPECIALTY PLATE

OWNERS!


Maine is fortunate to have more than 115 summer farmers’ markets. Each one is

organized locally through the collaborative work of farmers and other vendors.

Although some people think that winter is the “off season” for market farmers, it in fact remains a busy time. Winter is when farmers’ market members hold meetings to plan for the next season, accept applications from and interview new vendors, fundraise, and plan new programs. The annual Maine Farmers’ Market Convention, which takes place every January, is an opportunity for market members to come together for training, services, and inspiration.

This year’s convention will be held January 11th at the Augusta Civic Center, concurrent with the Maine Agricultural Trades Show. You can register for the convention at mainefarmersmarkets.org/convention-2018 or by calling 487-7114. With fifteen workshops, presentations, and panel discussions planned, the conference promises to be a busy day. The following are a few examples of topics and services scheduled for the convention:

State and national legislative update: Many people don’t realize how far-reaching the impact of agricultural legislation is, particularly in a rural state. (In 2016, just the Rural Development arm of the USDA invested $402 million in Maine.) The Federal Farm Bill directly impacts Maine farmers and consumers, funding everything from agricultural research to food benefits for senior citizens. There have been important changes in local laws as well, including exciting new developments around wine/spirit tastings at farmers’ markets.

Scales testing: Have you ever been pumping gas for your car, and noticed the seal of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry on the gas pump? That’s because the DACF certifies equipment that weighs and measures products that Mainers purchase, equipment ranging from fuel pumps, to grocery store scales, to the propane stations where we get

our BBQ grill tanks refilled. Likewise, market farmers are required to have their scales tested for accuracy each year. It only costs $5 per scale, and it’s an important way for farmers and food producers to show shoppers that their equipment is up-to-date and accurate. David Flannery, DACF Inspector of Weights and Measures, will be at the convention all day to test scales. See mainefarmersmarkets.org/scales-testing-certification for more information.

Law and Order: Farmers’ Market Unit – A Walk Through the Legal Issues That May Impact Your Market: Anyone who sells anything at a farmers’ market (or even volunteers there!) will want to invest an hour into attending this session led by attorney Dave McConnell of Perkins Thompson. It’s easy to be lulled into thinking that “someone else” will look after the fine print underpinning the market, but taking the time now to make sure everything is in order will save money and heartache later. Topics to be covered may include incorporation, trademarking, and liability, and attendees are invited to bring questions.

Keeping “Local” Competitive in the Global Market: Policies, Trends, and Resources that Will Impact Maine Farmers’ Markets - Guest speaker Philip Ackerman-Leist (a professor of sustainable agriculture and food systems at Green Mountain College in Vermont) will explore the role of farmers’ markets in Maine’s food system, and as part of a national context. Farmers’ markets are more than places where farmers and food entrepreneurs simply hone their competitive edges. They are also our society’s best representations of “food democracy” and “living economies.” As farmers and food producers work to develop “local foodsheds” that are more profitable, equitable, nimble, and resilient, it is imperative that we capitalize upon the anchor role that farmers’ markets play in linking economic value to democratic values, and Ackerman-Leist will explore these possibilities.

Farmers — attend annual Market Convention for training, services, inspiration.BY LEIGH HALLETT, MAINE FEDERATION OF FARMERS’ MARKETS

Maine Farmers’ Market Convention

Thank You!

Registration is now open for the 10th annual Maine Farmers’ Market Convention, which will take place Thursday, January 11th at the Augusta Civic Center from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Market vendors, managers, and volunteers from across the state will convene for the conference, the theme of which is “Keeping ‘Local’ Competitive in the Global Market: Policies, Trends, and Resources That Will Impact Maine Farmers’ Markets.” The convention is hosted by the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets (MFFM), and is the primary opportunity for people interested in Maine’s markets to come together for inspiration, guidance, and networking opportunities.

The keynote address at the convention, entitled ““Hacking the Local Foodshed: Packing the Toolbox,” will be delivered by Philip Ackerman-Leist, author and professor of sustainable agriculture and food systems at Green Mountain College in Vermont. Ackerman-Leist will explore how farmers’ markets are society’s best representations of “food democracy” and “living economies,” and how to capitalize upon the anchor role that farmers’ markets play in linking economic value to democratic values.

More than a dozen workshops and panel discussions, plus roundtable discussions and drop-in sessions, will be spread over the course of the day. There will be on-site WIC farmer authorization training, a SNAP sign-up table with the USDA, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry scales testing, and exhibitors. For more information and schedules, visit mainefarmersmarkets.org/convention-2018.

Pre-registration is required, and registration closes January 2. For more information or to register, call (207) 487-7114 or email [email protected]. Online registration is also available at mainefarmersmarkets.org.


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Tuesday, January 9th

10:00 a.m.Education Before Regulation: Update on

the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)Understanding the Food and Drug Administration’s new Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are several groups actively working to help farmers understand these regulations and establish plans for compliance. While this process may seem burdensome, it is a good way to ensure that the food you produce and distribute is safe, a good thing for your customer and your business. In this brief talk, we will give you some general overview and updates about the FSMA.Presenters: Jason Bolton, University of Maine and Linda Titus, AgMatters LLC

NoonRoots and Batters: A-peeling Treasures

from the Winter Market!Winter Solstice Stew to Red Flannel Secret Beet Cake, (un)Fries to Die For to SweetTater Candy. Chef and cookbook author Cynthia Finnemore Simonds is joined by State Treasurer Terry Hayes as they whip up sweet and savory delicacies from the winter farmers market.

2:00 p.m.Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Program

The Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship (DGA) program is an accredited National Apprenticeship registered with the Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor. Originating in Wisconsin, where it was developed by and for farmers to address farm loss, DGA grew out of a long history of peer-to-peer education networks among dairy grazers. Formally established in June of 2011, DGA looks to match grazing dairy “Masters” with apprentices for a 2-year commitment of both formal and informal education. Currently, there are 3 farms in Maine who have qualified as Masters. Wolfe’s Neck Farm in Freeport, ME has three DGA apprentices currently working on the farm as part of their Organic Dairy Farmer Research and Training Program. This program will provide information on how to get involved, either as a Master or as an apprentice.Presenter: Rick Kersbergen, Extension Professor, UMaine Cooperative Extension

4:00 p.m.Farmers FYI: Free Educational

Programs for Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers and their Families

Did you know that migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families are eligible for free educational support? Our programs provide services such as tutoring, English language classes, HiSET/GED mentoring, job training and much more! Join Maine Migrant Education Program, New England High School Equivalency Program and National Farmworker Jobs Program to learn more about eligibility, services and how our programs benefit farmers and farmworkers alike.Presenters: Amy Hagemeier, New England High School Equivalency Program State Coordinator – Maine; Matt Flaherty, Recruiter/Advocate, Maine Migrant Education

Wednesday, January 10th

10:00 a.m.Taking Proactive Steps to Manage

Weather RisksHaving various management strategies in place is the best way to protect the farm from weather-related risks. Join us for a discussion of risk management program options and irrigation strategies. Learn how high tunnels can be used to manage risk. Share your own risk management strategies. Panelists include: UMaine Cooperative Extension’s Crop Insurance Education Program Manager Erin Roche, Farm Service Agency Program Specialist Amanda May, and Extension Educators Caragh Fitzgerald and Mark Hutchinson.

11:00 a.m.Take Local Online with WhatsGood

The WhatsGood Marketplace is a virtual farmers market that connects buyers with local farmers, fishermen and artisans. The platform helps buyers discover local food and support their local food community. Mike Gold of Crave Food Systems will demonstrate how producers and buyers can use WhatsGood as a tool to simplify local food transactions. Presenter: Mike Gold, Crave Food Systems

12:30 p.m.Inaugural get real. get Maine! Youth

Cooking ContestAre you a student aged 14-18? Do you love to cook? Can you imagine recipes by looking at a few ingredients? Enter the first Maine Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Conservation’s get real. get Maine! Youth Cooking Contest. Send us your favorite original recipe for the chance to be chosen to compete at the 2018 Ag Trades Show in front of our audience. Contestants will be given a basket of secret ingredients and the use of our pantry and equipment. Finished dishes will be judged on taste, creativity and presentation. Take home the 2018 Best Young Chef title and prizes. Sponsored by Backyard Farms and the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s get real. get Maine! program

***Rules and Entry forms can be found on the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s get real. get Maine! website at: http://www.getrealmaine.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/calendar.detail/event_id/94/index.htm, and on the Mindful Mouthful Facebook page.

2:30 p.m.Why Value-Added Marketing is

ValuableInterested in taking your business in a different direction or engaging in value-added marketing, but unsure of what this will require? Join our group of panelists as they discuss their business profiles, how they have successfully transitioned into value-added production, and effective marketing strategies in today’s consumer-driven marketplace.

Panelists: Allison Lakin, Lakin’s Gorges Cheese LLC; Bruce Olson, Tree Spirits of Maine; and Lee Worcester, Worcester’s Wild Blueberries

5:00 p.m.Local Celebrity Cook-Off

An evening filled with fun and surprise, as our guest contestants are tasked with cooking a dish with a secret “Maine” ingredient.Maine DACF is excited to host the first ever Local Celebrity Cook-Off at the Agricultural Trades Show. Join four local celebrities as they compete head-to-head in a Chopped style competition. They will be provided with a main ingredient for their dish, and then be given one hour to raid the pantry of ingredients and prepare a dish to impress our judges. Judging will be live at 6:00 pm, immediately following contest.“Maine” Ingredient Donated By: Maine Beef Producers Association

Thursday, January 11th

9:00 a.m.Return of a Lost Art: Fiber and

SpinningPatti Ross and Ann Wishart will be spinning different breeds of wool, Alpaca and Angora rabbit fiber. They will also be demonstrating how to use a blending board, carder and spinning wheel.Presenters: Patti Ross and Ann Wishart

NoonBaby It’s Cold Outside:

Wild Maine Blueberry Crisp Gelato with Gelato Fiasco

Fresh local milk and cream, Wild Maine Blueberries, crunchy Maine sea salt, and homemade vanilla join together to become decadent Wild Maine Blueberry Crisp gelato, as Chef and cookbook author Cynthia Finnemore Simonds is joined by the flavor masters at Gelato Fiasco in this gelato making demonstration. Sample the sweet results!

Demonstration Area Schedule

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