Vermont farmers struggle with federal actions

Vermont farmers are trying to figure out their next steps as they reel from changes to federal agriculture policies in the past three months that were capped this week when U.S. border agents arrested migrant farm workers at a dairy farm in Franklin County.

Grant writing course offered free to farmers

This one-day course will help businesses navigate the world of grants and will explain the steps of the granting process.

Farm to Plate fetes 14th anniversary

“We are feeling so energized from this year’s gathering, which brought together over 300 passionate individuals, all dedicated to finding actionable solutions to the complex issues impacting Vermonters.”

Free manual helps Vt. makers use green packaging

The guide, called “A Vermont Maker’s Guide to Greener Packaging,” is filled with environmentally friendly packaging options that are recyclable, compostable, and FSC-certified.

Winter manure spreading is banned now until April 1

Between Dec. 15 and April 1, no manure or other agricultural waste (including compost and spoiled feed) may be spread on agricultural fields throughout Vermont.

Area farms fare well despite wet weather

Local growers say they fared better during last week’s storms than in 2023 and, in general, have been less affected by extreme weather this growing season.

Bristol weighs ordinance to manage livestock on the loose

The Bristol selectboard is considering whether to develop a livestock running-at-large ordinance to help prevent animals from getting loose and running into the road.

Local farms get a boost from ACORN volunteers

Community members can join “working bee” brigades organized by ACORN to help tackle various projects on area farms, from onion planting to sheep shearing.

Program connects students with farms

Like most things, the future of agriculture in Vermont lies in the hands of younger generations. Today, many of those young Vermonters are leaving the state and pursuing careers outside of farming. 

Local goat farmers explore benefits of extended lactation

“If each goat milked longer, we could essentially make more milk over time with fewer goats, also fewer replacements to raise, a plus for the environment.”

Folks learn about farms while eating breakfast

On Aug. 5, Vermont Breakfast on the Farm welcomed nearly 1,400 people to Sunderland Farm in Bridport for a local Vermont breakfast and a self-guided tour of the dairy farm

Farming group eyes collaboration

Faced with managing changes in best practices, business competition and climate change — not to mention the daily challenges of raising crops and animals — growers and ranchers who gathered at the Champlain Valley Farmers Coalition annual meeting in Middl … (read more)

Meet Vijay Nazareth, head of the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition

Vijay Nazareth has experience in the private sector and in nonprofit management and finance, combined with a passion for conservation in agriculture and environmental stewardship.

Forage field day to be held Sept. 1 in Whiting

 Richville Farms in Whiting and UVM Extension will host a field day on forages for farmers.

New dairy funding opportunities are offered

Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center this week announced three funding opportunities for dairy farmers and service providers.

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