$5 million in sustainable ag funds available

VERMONT — Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, known as SARE, is accepting preproposals to distribute $5 million in funding across its three largest grant programs: Research and Education, Research for Novel Approaches, and Professional Development Grants Funding in these areas begins at $30,000 and can be as much as $250,000 for projects growing the future of sustainable agriculture in the Northeast. The deadline to submit preproposals is 5 p.m. EST on Aug. 2. All three grant programs … (read more)

What Horizon’s exit means for Vt. farmers

The Hescocks, who milk 325 cows at their Shoreham farm, have been producing for Horizon since 1999. It’s been about a month since they received the letter, and they don’t know what their future holds, or whether they’ll be able to continue farming at all.

Former Shoreham whiskey maker turns to brandy & agriculture education

SHOREHAM — It’s one of those stunning, late-August afternoons to which Vermonters subconsciously transport themselves when the mercury dives below zero in early February. The sun is grudgingly obeying its celestial mandate as it ebbs on the western horizo … (read more)

New hemp rules could further shrink industry

VERMONT — After the great promise hemp held out for Vermont farmers last year was dashed by poor planting weather, questionable plant genetics, limited drying and processing capacity, and the occasional dodgy contract, state officials are reporting a sign … (read more)

UVM makes agriculture business experts available to Vermonters

VERMONT — If you have a farm, forest or maple business and are experiencing disruptions or challenges due to the COVID-19 situation, University of Vermont Extension can help. Agricultural business experts are available to answer questions, assist with loc … (read more)

Vt. pesticide reports unavailable due to software oversight

Vermont’s Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets has not put out legally required reports on pesticide use since 2013, blaming the lapse on a database change gone wrong. The reports that are publicly available on the amount of pesticides applied to golf … (read more)