HARVEST, January 2015

HARVEST: Farm and Food News From Maine and Beyond

January 2015

We’re kicking off a new monthly harvest of farm and food news. Check back each month for a selection of articles, stories, and trends you might have missed.

During the "off-season," Maine farmers find all kinds of ways to keep busy.

Demand for organic milk in growing, but the lack of supply has led to a nationwide shortage (MPBN).

There are several new proposed local food bills on the table in the Maine legislature (BDN).

If you missed the Ag Trades Show in Augusta, here are a few notes from the 74th annual event (PPH’s Source).

Businesses are sprouting up to support farmers in new ways, through food hubs and other innovative distribution networks (NYTimes).

Maine's young farmers are leading the way back to the land (again) (NPR).

Access to start-up capital and land are two of the biggest challenges that beginning farmers face. National Young Farmer’s Coalition is aiming to tackle both barriers, and recently launched a campaign for student loan forgiveness. They also just released an excellent new Farmer's Guide to Working with Land Trusts.

A, B, or none of the above? The maple syrup grading system is changing.

Joel Salatin of Polyface Farms (made famous by Michael Pollan’s Omnivore’s Dilemma) laid out 5 Ways We Can Scale Sustainable Farming.

And just for fun, some very cute pictures of farm animals all bundled up for the winter weather.

Keep your finger on the pulse of Maine food and farming by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And don’t forget to sign up for our email newsletter.