2020 Impact Educating, inspiring, and empowering farmers Farmer Education 31st MOSES Organic Farming Conference 2,453 people gathered at the MOSES Conference to learn the latest organic production methods and connect with the right resources and people to support the success of their farms and businesses.
“There are no words to describe just how much great networking, learning, and connecting takes place.” ~ Angela Rivers, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Photo: Grazing Acres Farm, Chetek, Wisconsin
Practical Advice When the pandemic hit the U.S., we acted quickly to get information to farmers. Our webpage with dozens of COVID-related farming resources had 1,275 visits. We gave 47 farmers free access to the recording of the conference workshop “Attract Local Customers Online” to help them set up online sales. We launched a new podcast with advice on many aspects of farming, starting with pandemic issues and farmer mental health. MOSES Organic Farming Podcast‘s 22 episodes had 7,080 plays total in 2020. Our In Her Boots podcast, now in its fourth year, had 35,354 plays.
“We are going organic with our farm this year!! This conference was a great experience. We learned so many things. It was especially nice being surrounded by other organic farmers who share the same passions of transforming our communities, regenerating the land, and healing the people + planet.” ~ Katelynn Knutson, Steward, Illinois We recognized Jane Hawley Stevens and David Stevens of Four Elements Organic Herbals as Organic Farmers of the Year. We introduced a new award for those working to overcome systemic challenges and build strong farming communities. 2020 Changemaker awards went to Reginaldo HaslettMarroquin, founder of the Regenerative Agriculture Alliance; Steve Acheson, co-founder of the South Central WI Hemp Producers Co-op; and, Loretta Livingston and Joy Schelble, the forces behind the Bad River Food Sovereignty Program.
Organic Field Days In the face of the pandemic, we pivoted from on-farm field days to virtual events and connected with even more farmers. 375 people joined in our four virtual field days, while the recordings had an additional 1,087 views. We covered organic dairy, transition to organic grains, Kernza®, and medicinal herb production.
“MOSES has connected me with an incredible community of farmers and empowered me to farm and live better. “ ~ Danielle Endvick, Holcombe, Wisconsin
We also moved our In Her Boots workshops online, hosting webinars on time management and networking as part of our 8-week Resilience Boot Camp that reached 3,090 women farmers. Our Women Caring for the Land outreach connected 359 women landowners with specialists and resources in Wisconsin to support their conservation plans.
We logged over 1,200 interactions with farmers on the Organic Answer Line.
15,555 subscribers to the Organic Broadcaster newspaper learned about the issues impacting organic farmers. Experienced organic farmers guided 25 farmers through our Farmer-toFarmer Mentoring Program. We helped farmers establish Grower Groups to share ideas and find support for the work they are doing. 3 new groups formed in 2020.
Resources Our information-rich website had 160,466 visits. Land Link-Up had 5,191 views. Job seekers checked the Farm Jobs page 6,223 times.
4,280 individuals used our Farm
Production Recordkeeping Workbook. 388 accessed our Guidebook for Organic Certification, while 428 browsed the Midwest Organic Resource Directory. Farmers downloaded 652 organic fact sheets on production and business issues.
1,416 farmers watched our video series on FSA loans, while another 822 took our Fearless Farm Finances online course.
2020 Financial Summary Revenue $1,382,912 Item Sales 4% In-Kind Contrib. 5%
Expenses $1,382,698
Net Assets $500,604 Grant-Restricted & Scholarship 17%
56% Advertising & Events
Donations 3% PPP Loan 7% Grants: Business & Foundation 10%
Fundraising 1% Administration 12%
Government Grants 14%
Board-Restricted Funds 34%
From audited financial statements for Fiscal Year Sept. 1, 2019 to Aug. 31, 2020
Thanks to Our Supporters
Our mission is to
Major Funders
educate,
inspire,
These organizations and agencies support our work through grants and gifts, ensuring MOSES can provide the training, resources, and practical advice farmers need to succeed in organic production. Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Ciranda Clif Bar Family Foundation Compeer Financial Farm Aid
49% Operating Funds
Programs 86%
Farmers Advocating for Organic McKnight Foundation Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
& empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
Engaged Supporters 330 individuals donated a total of $46,786 to empower farmers to grow organically, a system of farming that promotes healthy soils, clean water, abundant pollinators, and combats climate change. Many of our donors are farmers who have experienced firsthand the impact of our services. Thank you to all who are investing in our work!
Lori Stern, Executive Director
We are especially grateful to our Engaged Donors who gave $300 or more to support organic farming: Amy Alpine & John Grump Audrey Alwell & Jim Herold Ambre Blends Sam Atkins Gail Barber Bremer Bank of Menomonie Bull Family of Union Grove Farm Lisa Burke ChavoBart Digital Media Christin Cleaver Cook County Whole Foods Co-op Crystal Creek Natural, LLC Dr. Paul’s Lab Heidi Doering Four Elements Organic Herbals Mary Gale Grain Place Foods, Inc. Jacek Haciak Emelie Haigh
Board of Directors:
Thomas B. Harding, Jr. Jeanne Helzer Todd & Lin Jennewine Huffman Kitchen Table Consultants Carolyn Lavallee Joe Luetmer Penny Molina Renee Morris Gordon & Linda Olson Organic Gem/Great Western Sales Cathy Peltz People’s Food Co-op, La Crosse, WI David & Barb Perkins Tim & Betsy Pierce Lori Poppe Peter Sonstegard JoAnn Thomas & Doug Nopar Patricia & Gene Thomas Dale & Ann Woodbeck
Mike Bollinger
River Root Farm, Decorah, Iowa
Sylvia Burgos Toftness
Bull Brook Keep, Clear Lake, Wis.
Dela Ends
Scotch Hill Farm, Brodhead, Wis.
Regi Haslett-Marroquin
Regeneration Farms, Northfield, Minn.
Clare Hintz
Elsewhere Farm, Herbster, Wis.
Charlie Johnson
Johnson Farms, Madison, SD
David Perkins
Vermont Valley Community Farm Blue Mounds, Wis.
Sara Tedeschi
Dog Hollow Farm, Ferryville, Wis.
Darin Von Ruden
“MOSES has kept me from giving up on my farm dream. Thank you!”
Ruden Family Farm, Westby, Wis.
~ Laura Otolski, Evanston, Ill.
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
•
888-90-MOSES
•
mosesorganic.org/donate
2019 Impact Educating, inspiring, and empowering farmers Photo: Humble Hands Harvest, Decorah, Iowa
Education “MOSES field days and conferences and the mentorship program have all been big reasons why I’m still farming after 15 years despite huge hurdles.” ~ Dayna Burtness, Spring Grove, Minnesota
Resources Farmers turn to MOSES for resources and practical information to improve their farms.
174,730 website visits racked up as
30th MOSES Organic Farming Conference
farmers accessed details about events, organic production, and our free resources.
2,628 people gathered at the MOSES Conference, where, for 30 years, people
5,376 looked for land to grow via our
who have a passion for good food and good-for-the-Earth farming have shared ideas, discovered new resources, and found support. 90 farmers attended on scholarships.
“A great experience. Love this conference!” ~ Dennis Baese, Elsie, Michigan
“We had a lot to take away. We can’t wait to put these amazing plans in action!” ~ Jessa Lane, Marshall, Wisconsin
Organic Field Days
1,011 participants attended our 11 on-farm field days. Farmstead micro-creamery basics, soil health, weed control, small grains for milling, hemp for CBD oil, and fruit production were among the topics we covered. We also organized specific trainings to help USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service agents better serve the needs of organic producers.
“Absolutely excellent! We enjoyed every aspect. It was amazing!” ~ Anne Gamoke, Plymouth, Wisconsin
Women in Sustainable Ag Conference
260 women gathered to learn, connect, and grow at the 6th WISA Conference in St. Paul, Minnesota. MOSES hosted this collaborative event, which included intensives, workshops, meet-ups, and demonstrations. Funded in part by the USDA Risk Management Agency
“I appreciated the space to delve deeply into topics impacting our farms, hearts, and livelihoods.” ~ Erin Schneider, Madson, Wisconsin
Our mission is to educate, inspire, and empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
free Land Link-Up postings.
8,319 connected with on-farm jobs or reached out to add farm labor.
2,477 new users downloaded our Farm Production Recordkeeping Workbook to track farming activities for certification and crop insurance reporting.
595 new users requested our Guidebook for Organic Certification to understand the rules to become certified.
1,537 found suppliers, certifiers, & more in the newly released 11th edition of our Midwest Organic Resource Directory.
783 downloaded organic fact sheets while many more picked up copies at events. We updated Organic Certification & Tips for Choosing a Certifier.
14,214 subscribed to the Organic Broadcaster newspaper for the latest information on organic production practices, research, and farmer stories.
Practical Advice Our specialists provided one-to-one advice to farmers through the Organic Answer Line, logging more than 2,000 calls and emails. Experienced organic farmers mentored 15 new-toorganic growers in our Farmer-to-
Farmer Mentoring Program.
We recorded 50 new episodes for our In Her Boots podcast, which had more than 34,000 plays in 2019. We worked with farm business advisors at Western Technical College to create a free Fearless Farm Finances online course, helping more than 600 farmers set financial goals, improve their records, and make sound financial decisions.
2019 Financial Highlights Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES)
Financial Summary Income Allocations
Conference $ Grow Organic Programs Operating Support Sales/Goods Sold In-Kind Contributions Special Projects
Total Income
717,956 194,411 23,996 55,078 78,707 219,836
$ 1,289,983
Expenses
Net Assets
Programs: $ 1,129,983 Conference 464,298 Projects & Services 586,978 In-Kind Donations 78,707 Fundraising Expenses 35,105 Management/Administration 288,588
Total Expenses
Operating Funds $ 186,140 Board-Restricted Funds 276,834 Grant-Restricted Funds 37,417
Total Net Assets
$ 1,453,676
$ 500,391
Expense Allocations Programs 78%
Expense and Asset numbers are from audited financial statements for the MOSES Fiscal Year (Sept. 1, 2018 to Aug. 31, 2019).
Administration 20%
Photo: Ruby Rooster Farm, Metamora, Illinois
Fundraising 2%
Supporters Thanks to all the generous people who invest in organic farming by donating to MOSES. We’re especially grateful to these Major Funders and Engaged Supporters for helping us provide training, guidance, and practical advice to encourage farmers to grow organically.
Major Funders Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Ciranda Clif Bar Family Foundation Farm Aid
McKnight Foundation SARE UNFI Foundation USDA NRCS
USDA Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative USDA Risk Management Agency
Lauren Langworthy Executive Director
Board of Directors:
Engaged Supporters Amy Alpine & John Grump Audrey Alwell & Jim Herold Ambre Blends Artisan Cheese Exchange Gail Barber Chelley Beck Bull Family of Union Grove Farm Jim Cameron Cloud Cult Crystal Creek Natural, LLC Megan Dettloff, Dr. Paul’s Lab Heidi Doering Kathleen & Jim Dyreby Dela & Tony Ends Farm Table Foundation
Joyce Ford & Jim Riddle Mary Gale Grain Place Foods Inc. Jacek Haciak Carmen Hagen Emelie Haigh Thomas Harding Amy Hay Jeanne Helzer Daryl Hinderman Todd Huffman & Lin Jennewine Angela Jackson Charlie Johnson
Funding Sources 6% In-kind Contributions 4% Sales 5% Individual Donations 3% Foundation/Business Grants
Joel Koplos Altfrid & Susan Krusenbaum Lauren & Caleb Langworthy Joe Luetmer Kay Mehl CeLena Morris Renee Morris Gordon & Linda Olson Anne & Jim Patterson David & Barb Perkins Tim & Betsy Pierce Ken Pohlman Annake Ramsey Rebecca Robinson Sam & Vera Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Robert & Judith Sayre Mikol Sesker Lisa & Andy Talbott Gene & Patricia Thomas Travis Thompson Lori Tauring & Renee Tierney Whole Foods Co-op, Duluth, MN Dale & Ann Woodbeck
David Abazs
Round River Farm, Finland, Minn.
Mike Bollinger
River Root Farm, Decorah, Iowa
Sylvia Burgos Toftness
Bull Brook Keep, Clear Lake, Wis.
Dela Ends
Scotch Hill Farm, Brodhead, Wis.
Clare Hintz
Elsewhere Farm, Herbster, Wis.
Charlie Johnson
Johnson Farms, Madison, SD
David Perkins
Vermont Valley Community Farm Blue Mounds, Wis.
Molly Rockamann
EarthDance, Ferguson, Mo.
Sara Tedeschi
Dog Hollow Farm, Ferryville, Wis.
63% Earned Income
18% Government Grants
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
•
888-90-MOSES
Darin Von Ruden
Ruden Family Farm, Westby, Wis.
•
mosesorganic.org/donate
2018 Impact How your investment in organic farming works Photo: Country Blossom Organics, Lomira, WI
Education 29 MOSES Organic Farming Conference th
We helped 2,994 people from 41 states and 12 countries learn about proven organic and sustainable farming practices | find services, tools, and resources to improve their farms | get support and encouragement from their peers to start or continue on the organic path.
“MOSES is not only a place for me to gather information for making farm decisions, it’s also where I check in with the trends, successes, and direction of organic.” ~ Jordan Scheibel, Grinnell, Iowa
“I always leave inspired and motivated to do a better job.” ~ Stefanie Jaeger, Ashland, Wisconsin
New Farmer U
131 beginning farmers gained the skills they need to move their farms forward at the weekend training we offered in the Wisconsin Dells with project partner Renewing the Countryside. These new farmers learned about business planning, financial management, food safety, farm law, organic certification, and more to lay the foundation for resilient and profitable operations. Funded by USDA Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development Program
Organic Field Days
Resources Farmers look to MOSES for resources and practical advice to help them grow.
248,657 accessed resources, events, and practical tips on our website.
9,544 looked for land via our free Land Link-Up postings.
13,664 connected with on-farm jobs or found farm labor.
1,921 used our Farm Production Recordkeeping Workbook to track activity for certification/crop insurance.
846 new users turned to our Guidebook for Organic Certification to decipher the rules to become certified. We published a Spanish edition in 2018.
2,819 found supplies, certifiers, & more in our Midwest Organic Resource Directory.
1,230 downloaded organic fact sheets while dozens more picked up copies at events. We updated Managing Soil Fertility in an Organic System and Organic Pest & Disease Management, and published Steps to Comply with FSMA Produce Safety Rule. We also published six of our most popular fact sheets in Spanish as well as Hmong.
13,464 increased their understanding of organic production through the Organic Broadcaster newspaper.
Our on-farm field days showcased 14 successful organic farms, drawing 795 farmers, who gleaned ideas to improve their farms.
Practical Advice
“I’m learning a lot with the resources provided by MOSES. I appreciated the opportunity to visit a farm that has sustained itself in organics over the long haul.” ~ Ben Hagenbuch, Mendota, Illinois
farmers and organic advocates through our In Her Boots podcast.
12,931 gleaned wisdom from women 858 found answers on our Ask a Specialist webpage, while hundreds more consulted our specialists on our Organic Answer Line and at events.
33 jump-started their farm or added a new venture, increasing their odds of success with direct input from 30 experienced organic farmers in our Farmer-To-Farmer Mentoring Program.
Our mission is to educate, inspire, and empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
2018 Financial Highlights Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES)
Financial Summary Income Allocations
Conference $ 762,256 Grow Organic Programs 190,229 Operating Support 34,404 Sales/Goods Sold 56,863 In-Kind Contributions 46,700 Special Projects 422,293
Total Income
$ 1,514,763
Expenses
Net Assets
Programs: $ 1,126,194 Conference 443,905 Projects & Services 635,589 In-Kind Donations 46,700 Fundraising Expenses 34,145 Management/Administration 287,653
Total Expenses
Operating Funds $ 297,679 Board-Restricted Funds 305,740 Grant- Restricted Funds 91,773
Total Net Assets
$ 1,447,992
$ 695,192
Expense Allocations Programs 78%
Expense and Asset numbers are from audited financial statements for the MOSES Fiscal Year (Sept. 1, 2017 to Aug. 31, 2018). MOSES follows generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nonprofits.
Administration 20%
Fundraising 2%
Supporters Thanks to the many generous people who invest in organic farming through a donation to MOSES. We’re especially grateful to these Major Funders and Engaged Supporters for helping us provide training, guidance, and practical advice to encourage farmers’ success.
Major Funders Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Annie’s, Inc Blooming Prairie Foundation Ceres Trust Ciranda
Clif Bar Family Foundation Farm Aid Frontier Natural Products Co-op McKnight Foundation SARE
UNFI Foundation USDA NRCS USDA Advocacy & Outreach USDA Risk Management Agency Wisconsin Natural Food Assoc.
Board of Directors: David Abazs
Round River Farm, Finland, Minn.
Mike Bollinger
Engaged Supporters
River Root Farm, Decorah, Iowa
Audrey Alwell & Jim Herold Gail Barber Blue River Organic Seed Bull Family Christin Cleaver Crystal Creek Natural, LLC Dr. Bronner’s Kathleen & Jim Dyreby Earth Tools, Inc. Fedco Seeds Joyce Ford & Jim Riddle Grain Millers, Inc.
Emelie Haigh Thomas Harding Jeanne Helzer Daryl Hinderman Todd Huffman Charlie Johnson Dale & Norma Kirby Laura Lemieux Lorentz Meats
Theresa Marquez John Mesko Cathy & Tom Morgan Gordon Olson Anne & Jim Patterson Steve Pincus & Beth Kazmar Rimol Greenhouse Systems Ron & Maria Rosmann Sam & Vera Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Greg Schweser Victor Shrock Starlight Farms, Inc. Lori Tauring & Renee Tierney Kari Wenger & Peter Henry
Funding Sources
Bull Brook Keep, Clear Lake, Wis.
Dave Campbell
Lily Lake Organic Farm, Maple Park, Ill.
Dela Ends
Scotch Hill Farm, Brodhead, Wis.
Clare Hintz
Elsewhere Farm, Herbster, Wis.
Charlie Johnson
Johnson Farms, Madison, SD
David Perkins
Vermont Valley Community Farm Blue Mounds, Wis.
3% In-kind Contributions 4% Sales
Molly Rockamann
6% Individual Donations
EarthDance, Ferguson, Mo.
6% Foundation/Business Grants
Sara Tedeschi
Dog Hollow Farm, Ferryville, Wis.
53% Earned Income
Darin Von Ruden
Ruden Family Farm, Westby, Wis.
29% Government Grants
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
Sylvia Burgos Toftness
•
888-90-MOSES
•
mosesorganic.org/donate
2017 Financial Highlights
Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES)
Financial Summary Income Allocations Conference $ Grow Organic Programs Operating Support Sales/Goods Sold In-kind Contributions Special Projects
Total Income
659,875 213,623 45,721 59,528 54,351 247,026
$ 1,280,124
Expenses
Programs: $ 1,104,970 Conference 551,901 Projects & Services 496,788 In-kind Donations 56,281 Fundraising Expenses 33,049 Management/Administration 206,258
Total Expenses
Net Assets
Operating Funds $ 178,955 Board-Restricted Funds 311,440 Grant- Restricted Funds 63,376
Total Net Assets
$ 553,771
$ 1,344,277 Expense Allocations
Expense and Asset numbers are from audited financial statements for the MOSES Fiscal Year (Sept. 1, 2016 to Aug. 31, 2017).
Programs 83%
MOSES follows generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nonprofits.
Administration 15% Fundraising 2%
Supporters Thanks to these Major Funders and Engaged Supporters for helping us provide training, guidance, and practical advice to encourage farmers’ success. We are grateful, also, to the 504 businesses and individuals who supported organic farming by donating to MOSES.
Major Funders Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Annie’s, Inc. Blooming Prairie Foundation Ceres Trust Ciranda Clif Bar Family Foundation
Farm Aid Frontier Natural Products Co-op McKnight Foundation Sustainable Ag Research & Education United Natural Foods Foundation USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program
USDA Conservation Innovation USDA Farm Service Agency USDA NRCS USDA Advocacy & Outreach USDA Risk Management Agency Wisconsin Specialty Crop Grant
Grain Millers,, Inc. James Greenberg Emilie Haigh Jeanne Helzer Jane Henner Jim Herold & Audrey Alwell Daryl Hinderman Bruce Johnson Dale & Norma Kirby Laura Lemieux Lorentz Meats
Funding Sources 54% Earned Income
18% Government Grants
13% Foundation/ Business Grants
Round River Farm Finland, Minnesota
Mike Bollinger River Root Farm Decorah, Iowa
Engaged Supporters Amy Alpine & John Grump Jay Arneson Gail Barber Hans & Katie Bishop Blue River Organic Seed Bull Family Christin Cleaver Crystal Creek Inc Kathleen & Jim Dyreby Fedco Seeds Joyce Ford & Jim Riddle
Board of Directors: David Abazs
Theresa Marquez Marsha Mason John & Lisa Mesko Tom & Cathy Morgan Mountain Rose Herbs Nature’s Organic Grist, LLC Sue Nielsen Anne & Jim Patterson David & Barb Perkins Steven Pincus & Beth Kazmar Rimol Greenhouses Sam & Vera Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Gregory Schweser John & Laurel Shea Margaret Smith & Doug Alert Starlight Farms, Inc Lori Tauring & Renee Tierney Thorvin Kari Wenger & Peter Henry Harold Wilken Dale & Ann Woodbeck
Sylvia Burgos Toftness Bull Brook Keep Clear Lake, Wisconsin
Dave Campbell
Lily Lake Organic Farm Maple Park, Illinois
Dela Ends
Scotch Hill Farm Brodhead, Wisconsin
Carmen Fernholz A-Frame Farm Madison, Minnesota
Melinda Hemmelgarn Food Sleuth Columbia, Missouri
David Perkins
Vermont Valley Community Farm Blue Mounds, Wisconsin
Molly Rockamann
EarthDance Organic Farm School Ferguson, Missouri
Darin Von Ruden
Von Ruden Family Farm Westby, Wisconsin
6% Individual Donations 5% Sales
Carla Wright
4% In-kind Contributions
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
•
Savanna Hill Farm Cross Plains, Wisconsin
715-778-5775
•
mosesorganic.org
Impact 2016 Highlights of our work to ensure the success of farmers who grow using organic and sustainable practices
Education MOSES Organic Farming Conference More than 3,600 people attended the 27th MOSES Conference from all around the country and the globe to gather fresh ideas to put in practice to help their farms thrive. “The MOSES Conference is a goldmine! There is no better forum to learn—for transitioning to experienced organic farmers.” ~S.M., Dixon, Ill. Steve Pincus and Beth Kazmar received the 2016 MOSES Organic Farmers of the Year award. These longtime organic farmers, owners of Tipi Produce, are known for growing sweet carrots and other produce sold at food co-ops in Madison and Milwaukee, and through a 500box-a-week CSA. Steve and Beth are well known for their farming wisdom and their willingness to teach others.
Organic Field Days 864 farmers learned about organic and sustainable farming practices at our 13 field days. We also reached 52 women landowners to connect them with conservation resources and land management planning through our Rural Women’s Project-led 3 Women Caring for the Land events.
Photo: Harmony Valley Farm, Viroqua, Wis.
Practical Advice We connected with farmers at 20 events, aside from the MOSES Conference and our field days, to answer questions about organic practices and certification. We fielded more than 500 farmer calls on our Organic Answer Line. We also handled 225 queries from farmers through our Ask a Specialist webpage, which farmers consulted 2,159 times for answers to FAQs.
New Farmer U We launched this 2-day training project to boost the field and financial skills of new farmers. The first event last October drew 129 people to Lanesboro, Minnesota. We manage this project with Renewing the Countryside under a Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development Program grant.
Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program
58 farmers were involved in this program where experienced organic farmers share their expertise to encourage the success of farmers who are either launching a new farming scope or transitioning to organic. The goal is to build strong organic relationships throughout our region.
Resources Website: mosesorganic.org
Traffic on our website grew by more than 16% in the past year, with 330,188 individuals accessing information for a total of 407,617 views.
Beth Kazmar and Steve Pincus lead a field tour during our field day at Tipi Produce near Evansville, Wis.
Guidebook for Organic Certification
We introduced a revamped Guidebook in the fall of 2016 that illustrates the certification process and rules for organic production.
Midwest Organic Resource Directory
Our searchable online directory of suppliers, buyers, and certification agencies was used 1,757 times.
Organic Fact Sheets
Farmers picked up hundreds of our fact sheets at events, plus another 2,314 online. We introduced 2 new topics this year: Farm Safety for Children, and Whole Farm Revenue Protection for Specialty Crop Growers.
Organic Broadcaster Newspaper
This popular newspaper features production advice, research updates, farmer profiles, book reviews, and other news about the organic sector. Circulation topped 12,500.
Our mission is to
educate inspire
empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
2016 Financial Highlights
Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES)
Financial Summary Expense and Asset numbers are from audited financial statements for the MOSES Fiscal Year (Sept. 1, 2015 to Aug. 31, 2016). MOSES follows generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nonprofits.
Income Allocations Conference Grow Organic Programs Operating Support Sales/Goods Sold In-kind Contributions Special Projects
Total Income
$ 817,117 252,190 112,466 76,935 42,697 186,835
$ 1,488,240
Expenses
Programs: $ 1,114,206 Conference 589,603 Projects & Services 504,867 In-kind Donations 47,736 Fundraising Expenses 32,607 Management/Administration 253,417
Total Expenses
Net Assets
Operating Funds $ 246,111 Board-Restricted Funds 291,296 Grant- Restricted Funds 87,492
Total Net Assets
$ 624,899
Expense Allocations
$ 1,428,230
Programs 80% Administration 18% Photo: Genuine Faux Farm, Tripoli, Iowa Fundraising 2%
Supporters
Thanks to these Major Funders and Engaged Supporters for helping us provide training, guidance, and practical advice to encourage farmers’ success. We are grateful, also, to the 504 businesses and individuals who supported organic farming by donating to MOSES.
Major Funders Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Annie’s, Inc. Blooming Prairie Foundation Ceres Trust Ciranda Clif Bar Family Foundation Farm Aid
Frontier Natural Products Co-op Harry Chapin Foundation Lakewinds Organic Field Fund Marshfield Clinic Foundation McKnight Foundation Sustainable Ag Research & Education United Natural Foods Foundation
USDA Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development Program USDA Conservation Innovation USDA Farm Service Agency USDA Risk Management Agency Wisconsin Specialty Crop Wisconsin Farmers Union
Crystal Creek Inc. Reggie Destree Andrew & Melissa Dunham Kathleen & Jim Dyreby Everbest Organics Joyce Ford & Jim Riddle Mary Gale James Greenberg Emilie Haigh Steve & Ann Hansen Jeanne Helzer Jane Henner
Jim Herold & Audrey Alwel Daryl Hinderman Bruce Johnson Faye Jones Michael Lorentz, Lorentz Meats Marsha Mason Mint N More Farms Tom & Cathy Morgan Mountain Rose Herbs Nature’s Organic Grist, LLC Doug Nopar & Joann Thomas David Olson Alice Percy, Fedco Seeds John & Laurel Shea Jane Siemon Margaret Smith & Doug Alert Laura Sova Lori Tauring & Renee Tierney Craig Tomera, Grain Millers Inc. Kent Velde Kari Wenger & Peter Henry Harold Wilken Whole Foods Co-op, Duluth Dale & Ann Woodbeck
Engaged Supporters Alden Ponds Foundation Amy Alpine Jay Arneson Gail Barber Bay Shore Sales Lisa Bean Katherine Betz Hans & Katie Bishop Blue River Hybrids Robert Cain, SeaAgri Inc. Dave & Mary Campbell Darlene & Dan Coehoorn
Funding Sources 12% Government Grants
20% Foundation/ Business Grants
21% Individual Donations 40% Earned Income
Round River Farm Finland, Minnesota
Mike Bollinger River Root Farm Decorah, Iowa
Sylvia Burgos Toftness Bull Brook Keep Clear Lake, Wisconsin
Dave Campbell
Lily Lake Organic Farm Maple Park, Illinois
Dela Ends
Scotch Hill Farm Brodhead, Wisconsin
Carmen Fernholz A-Frame Farm Madison, Minnesota
Melinda Hemmelgarn
Food Sleuth Columbia, Missouri
David Perkins
Vermont Valley Community Farm Blue Mounds, Wisconsin
Molly Rockamann
EarthDance Organic Farm School Ferguson, Missouri
Darin Von Ruden
Von Ruden Family Farm Westby, Wisconsin
Carla Wright
3% In-kind Contributions
Savanna Hill Farm Cross Plains, Wisconsin
5% Sales
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
Board of Directors: David Abazs
•
715-778-5775
•
mosesorganic.org
Impact 2015 Helping Farmers Grow Organic
Farmers look to MOSES for education, resources, and practical advice to succeed at organic & sustainable farming. These annual figures highlight the impact of our work.
Education
Photo: Buttermilk Falls CSA, Osceola, Wis.
MOSES Organic Farming Conference
Advocacy
Just over 3,500 people attended the 26th MOSES Conference. Evaluations show how much participants appreciate this respected event. Many echo this farmer’s sentiments: “I am walking away with practical next steps to hit my farming goals & feeling inspired!” ~K.D., St. Louis, Mo. Greg and Mary Reynolds were chosen as the 2015 MOSES Organic Farmers of the Year. They grow certified organic vegetables, mostly with their own locally adapted seed, on their farm near Delano, Minn. These careful stewards of the land also reach out to beginning farmers, school groups, and others to share the organic message.
Organic Field Days
We served on state councils and national coalitions to influence farm policy in support of organic agriculture. Some of the issues where we moved the needle include the FDA food safety rule, NRCS conservation programs, crop insurance that deals fairly with diversified farms, and funding for organic research.
We organized 7 events and partnered on 3 others with a total of 487 participants, helping people make connections and learn about specific organic practices.
Resources Website: mosesorganic.org
The MOSES website contains a wealth of knowledge about organic farming and certification. In 2015, 283,796 individuals used the site for a total of 354,276 views. The more popular features are jobs and classified ads and Land Link-Up—good services we provide to help farmers connect.
Guidebook for Organic Certification
This popular resource answers farmers’ questions about the certification process and rules for organic production. We handed out dozens at events and 588 online.
Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory
We distributed nearly 300 directories to help farmers find suppliers, buyers, and certification agencies, while our searchable online directory was used 1,425 times.
Organic Fact Sheets
Farmers picked up hundreds of our fact sheets at events, plus another 3,027 online.
Online Bookstore: mosesorganic.net
We launched a new site with books recommended by our Organic Specialists and MOSES Conference Presenters. Proceeds support our farmer-focused services.
Riverbend Farm, Delano, Minn. 2015 MOSES Organic Farmers of the Year Greg & Mary Reynolds
Our mission is to
Practical Advice Organic Specialists’ Outreach
We connected with farmers at 15 events, aside from the conference and field days, to answer farmers’ production and certification questions. We also fielded 568 calls to our Organic Answer Line and 183 queries on our Ask a Specialist webpage, which farmers consulted 2,028 times for answers to frequently asked questions.
Organic Broadcaster Newspaper
We introduced color to our 20-page publication, which we provide free to 11,842 readers. This esteemed newspaper features production advice, research updates, farmer profiles, book reviews, and news about the organic sector.
educate inspire
empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
2015 Financial Highlights
Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES)
Financial Summary Expense and Asset numbers are from audited financial statements for the MOSES Fiscal Year (Sept. 1, 2014 to Aug. 31, 2015). MOSES follows generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nonprofits. Accrual accounting requires that income be recorded in the year in which it is received.
Income Allocations
Conference $ 819,265 Grow Organic Programs 177,146 Operating Support 172,483 Sales/Goods Sold 70,841 In-kind Contributions 52,390 Special Projects 16,662
Total Income
$ 1,308,787
Expenses
Programs: $ 1,015,198 Conference 588,849 Projects & Services 369,970 In-kind Donations 56,379 Fundraising Expenses 32,666 Management/Administration 198,809
Total Expenses
Net Assets
Operating Funds $ 273,770 Board-Restricted Funds 166,624 Grant- Restricted Funds 82,695
Total Net Assets
$ 523,089
Expense Allocations
$ 1,246,673
Programs 81% Administration 16%
Photo: Full Circle Farm, Seymour, Wis.
Fundraising 3%
Supporters
Thanks to these Major Funders and Engaged Supporters for helping us provide training, guidance, and practical advice to encourage farmers’ success. We are grateful, also, to the 654 businesses and individuals who supported organic farming by donating to MOSES.
Major Funders Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Annie’s, Inc. Blooming Prairie Foundation Bradshaw Knight Foundation The Brico Fund Ceres Foundation Ceres Trust Ciranda
Clif Bar Family Foundation Farm Aid Harry Chapin Foundation Hope Foundation Lakewinds Organic Field Fund McKnight Foundation National Co-op Grocers National Wildlife Federation
Engaged Supporters Albert Lea Seedhouse Alden Ponds Foundation Amy Alpine & John Grump Lisa Bean Katherine Betz Blue River Hybrids Joe & Antoinette Borgerding David & Mary Campbell Cowsmo Crystal Creek
Alan & Catherine Daus Reggie Destree Dyreby Family Trust Joyce Ford & Jim Riddle Thomas B Harding, Jr. David & Angelita Heidel Jeanne Helzer Jane Henner Jim Herold & Audrey Alwell Michael & Gale Hunt
5% Sales 4% In-kind Contributions 7% Individual Donations
24% Foundation/ Business Grants
1% Government Grants
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
•
715-778-5775
Board of Directors: David Abazs
Round River Farm Finland, Minnesota
Mike Bollinger River Root Farm Decorah, Iowa
Sylvia Burgos Toftness
Lakeview Organic Grain Perry & Lena Lehman Lorentz Meats Shanan Mahoney Beth Markhart Midwest Laboratories Minneapolis Foundation Mountain High Organics Mountain Rose Herbs Doug Nopar & Joann Thomas Anne & Jim Patterson Timothy & Carla Raupp Restaurant Alma Marilyn Sackett SeaAgri John & Laurel Shea Jane Siemon Margaret Smith & Doug Alert Joel & James Starr Lori Tauring & Renee Tierney Craig Tomera, Grain Millers Cheu Vang Kari Wenger & Peter Henry Whole Foods Co-op, Duluth Harold & Sandra Wilken Louise & Randall Willrett Dale Woodbeck
Funding Sources 59% Earned Income
Organic Valley/CROPP SARE United Natural Foods Foundation USDA Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development USDA Risk Management Agency Wisconsin Specialty Crop Whole Foods Market Wisconsin Farmer’s Union
Bull Brook Keep Clear Lake, Wisconsin
Dave Campbell
Lily Lake Organic Farm Maple Park, Illinois
Dela Ends
Scotch Hill Farm Brodhead, Wisconsin
Carmen Fernholz
A-Frame Farm Madison, Minnesota
Melinda Hemmelgarn Food Sleuth Columbia, Missouri
David Perkins
Vermont Valley Community Farm Blue Mounds, Wisconsin
Molly Rockamann
EarthDance Organic Farm School Ferguson, Missouri
Carla Wright
Savanna Hill Farm Cross Plains, Wisconsin
•
mosesorganic.org
Impact 2014 Helping Farmers Grow Organic
Farmers look to MOSES for education, resources, and practical advice—the tools they need to succeed at sustainable, organic farming. We’re pleased to share these year-end figures highlighting the impact of our work.
A record-breaking 3,463 people attended the 25th anniversary of the MOSES Conference, illustrating the rising interest in organic food and farming. We honored the Podolls of Prairie Road Organic Farm and Seed in North Dakota as 2014’s MOSES Organic Farmers of the Year. They develop small grains and organic vegetable varieties that thrive in the Northern Plains on their 480-acre farm, certified organic since 1977.
Conference Attendance 1990 – 2014 2010
MOSES Organic Farming Conference
2014
Photo at Four Elements Organic Herbals, North Freedom, Wis.
Education
New Farmer Summit
2000
2005
We launched a “mini-MOSES Conference” geared toward beginning farmers, allowing 139 new farmers to get advice and learn about topics such as organic practices, certification, choosing equipment, and land access ideas. The event was so successful, we’ve applied for a grant to present future summits around the Upper Midwest.
Organic Field Days
Guidebook for Organic Certification
We distributed 1,579 guidebooks to answer farmers’ questions about the certification process and rules for organic production.
Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory
Farmers requested more than 280 printed directories to find suppliers, buyers, and certification agencies, while 1,183 people used our searchable online directory.
Organic Fact Sheets
We handed out more than 500 printed fact sheets at events to explain organic rules and growing practices, plus another 3,330 through website downloads.
mosesorganic.org The MOSES website continues to be the go-to resource for information about organic and sustainable production. Over the year, 143,821 individuals used the site, for a total of 372,123 pageviews.
1990
Resources
1995
Nearly 400 people attended our 9 on-farm events to learn about specific aspects of organic management. Topics included orchards, converting CRP land to organic, winter CSA, seed production, intercropping, and soil health.
Advocacy MOSES worked with national coalitions on issues such as GMO contamination of organic production, organic research funding, and recommendations on national organic standards. Our organic specialists also worked at the state level on improving certification cost share and conservation programs.
Practical Advice
Our mission is to
Ask a Specialist
inspire
1,327 individuals accessed the answers on the Ask a Specialist webpage (mosesorganic.org/ask); 187 farmers submitted questions online and another 636 called our Organic Answer Line to talk about farming and certification issues.
Organic Broadcaster Our free subscriptions to this production-focused newspaper grew more than 10% to 13,065 farms/businesses.
Webinars We offered our first webinars this year, focused on farm finances. 86 people attended two webinars, and another 284 watched the archived videos.
educate
empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
2014 Financial Highlights
Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES)
Financial Summary Numbers are from audited financial statements for the MOSES Fiscal Year (Sept. 1, 2013 to Aug. 31, 2014). These statements use generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nonprofits. Accrual accounting requires that income be recorded in the year in which it is earned, which can result in a year-end financial statement with a net income lower than expenses.
Income Allocations
Expenses
Conference $ 651,877 Grow Organic Programs 221,039 Operating Support 252,954 Sales/Goods Sold 73,334 In-kind Contributions 67,388 Special Projects 19,332
Total Income
Programs: $ 1,233,370 Conference 636,759 Projects & Services 529,223 In-kind Donations 67,388 Fundraising Expenses 29,853 Management/Administration 211,578
Total Expenses
$ 1,285,924
Net Assets
Operating Funds $ 159,286 Board-Restricted Funds 167,524 Grant- Restricted Funds 102,512
Total Net Assets
$ 429,322
Expense Allocations
$ 1,474,801
Programs 84% Administration 14%
Photo at Genuine Faux Farm, Tripoli, Iowa
Fundraising 2%
Supporters
Thank you to the following Major Funders and Engaged Supporters, and the 575 thoughtful individuals who contributed to MOSES to ensure that farmers receive training, guidance, and practical advice for success in organic and sustainable farming.
Major Funders Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Annie’s, Inc. Brico Fund Ceres Foundation Ceres Trust Ciranda Clif Bar Family Foundation Farm Aid Frontier Natural Products Co-op
Engaged Supporters Amy Alpine & John Grump Gail Barber Roger Blobaum Kathy Bull Florence & Paul Butler Robert Cain
Executive Director
Board of Directors: David Abazs
Round River Farm Finland, Minnesota
USDA-Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development Program
Mike Bollinger
USDA-Risk Management Agency Whole Foods Market Wisconsin Farmer’s Union
River Root Farm Decorah, Iowa
Sylvia Burgos Toftness Dave & Mary Campbell Dennis Christiansen Cathy Daus Mary Gale Philip Gelatt Grain Place Foods, Inc
6% Sales 5% In-kind Contributions 5% Individual Donations
22% Foundation/ Business Grants
8% Government Grants
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
Bull Brook Keep Clear Lake, Wisconsin
Jeanne Helzer Jim Herold & Audrey Alwell Michael & Gale Hunt Faye Jones & Mark Plunkett Dale Kirby Joel Koplos Perry Lehman Lorentz Meats Cathy & Tom Morgan Nature’s Organic Grist Eric Newman David Olson Anne Patterson Jim Riddle & Joyce Ford John & Laurel Shea Margaret Smith & Doug Alert Joel & James Starr Lori Tauring & Renee Tierney Craig Tomera, Grain Millers, Inc Valley Natural Foods
Funding Sources 54% Earned Income
Faye Jones
Harry Chapin Foundation McKnight Foundation Newman’s Own Foundation Organic Valley/CROPP Small Planet Fund UNFI Foundation
|
715-778-5775
Dave Campbell
Lily Lake Organic Farm Maple Park, Illinois
Darlene Coehoorn
Viewpoint Organic Acres Rosendale, Wisconsin
Carmen Fernholz
A-Frame Farm Madison, Minnesota
Melinda Hemmelgarn Food Sleuth Columbia, Missouri
Nick Olson
Prairie Drifter Farm Litchfield, Minnesota
Carla Wright
Savanna Hill Farm Cross Plains, Wisconsin
|
mosesorganic.org
2013 Highlights MOSES Annual Report Educational Events MOSES Organic Farming Conference
3,349 PARTICIPANTS
from all parts of the U.S. and several other countries helped make the 2013 MOSES Conference a huge success. The 2013 MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year award was presented to Charlie Johnson, who grows organic field crops on his 2,800-acre South Dakota farm. A total of 14,750 ORGANIC MEALS were served and 321 SCHOLARSHIPS awarded. 2013 Conference Attendees Sustainable Farmer
Certified Organic
Transitioning to Organic New Farmer
Student
Other
Conventional Farmer
Organic Field Days
450 PARTICIPANTS
attended these on-farm events where farmers learn firsthand from successful operations. We organized a total of 9 FIELD DAYS across 5 MIDWESTERN STATES.
MOSES is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which is qualified to receive tax-deductible donations. Our mission is to
Services & Publications
educate
New MOSES website Unveiled new mosesorganic.org in November with upgraded and expanded content about organic production. Over the year, 96,539 INDIVIDUALS used the site for a total of 425,365 PAGEVIEWS.
NIC Afica ORG tion Certi Guidebook for Sixth Edition • August
2012
Guidebook for Organic Certification Fulfilled 5,662 REQUESTS for this 32-page book, which
inspire
empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
covers the steps to certification and rules for organic production.
Organic Fact Sheets Provided 32 TITLES free to thousands of farmers, students, and others.
Projects
Organic Broadcaster
Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program
Expanded from 20 to 24 pages. Our free print and online subscriptions increased 9% for a total of 11,522 READERS.
“This is Organic” Poster Posted at 135 FARM SERVICE AGENCY offices
Involved MOSES—the Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service—provides education, resources and expertise to help farmers grow organic.
Learn firsthand from successful organic farmers at a MOSES Organic Field Day:
1 5 6
3
4
to encourage conventional farmers to go organic.
9 11
2
10 7 8 12
Talk to a MOSES Organic Specialist at these events:
Visit www.mosesorganic .org for: • Farming resources, events & news • Fact Sheets on organic farming practices • Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory • Guidebook for Organic Certification • Organic Broadcaster newspaper • Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program • New Organic Stewards for beginning farmers • Rural Women’s Project • Online bookstore • MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year nomination • 25th Annual MOSES Organic Farming Feb. 27-Mar. 1, 2014, La Crosse,
Wis.
Organic Field days
2013
New Organic Stewards Reached
Conference
Get answers to your farming questions by calling the Organic Answer Line: 715-778-5775 or 888-551-476 9 Many thanks to the businesses, foundations and individual donors for supporting our Field Days and Grow Organic programs.
Farm Technology Days July 9-11 • Dallas, Wis.
MOSES continued to serve as a voice for organic and sustainable farmers on the national stage, influencing change on the Farm Bill, Food Safety rules, Certification Cost Share, and several other important issues.
•
Kickapoo Country Fair July 27 • La Farge, Wis.
•
Farmfest Aug. 6-8 • Redwood Falls, Minn.
PO Box 339, Spring Valley,
WI 54767 715-778-5775 www.mosesorganic.org
© 2013 MOSES
Policy Work
60 FARMERS
www.mosesorgan ic.org
Pictured above: Charlie Johnson 2013 MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year
BEGINNING 919 FARMERS Rural Women’s Project* Included
607 WOMEN *Honored with Wisconsin Top Rural Development Initiative
Board of Directors
Financial Summary* Financials reported are from audited statements based on generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nonprofits. Accrual accounting requires that income be recorded in the year in which it is earned, which can result in a yearend financial statement with a net income lower than expenses. MOSES carried out programs this year using grant income reported in prior years.
Net Assets
Income Allocations
Conference $ 708,333 Grow Organic Programs 143,008 Operating Support 108,542 Sales/Goods Sold 66,815 In-kind Contributions 62,315 Total Income $ 1,089,013
Undesignated Funds $ 243,684 Board-Designated Reserve Allocations 168,974 Temporarily Restricted 141,741 End of Year Total Net Assets $ 554,399
Expenses
Program Expenses: $ 1,161,598 Conference 607,140 Projects & Services 439,591 In-kind Donations 62,315 Fundraising Expenses 43,902 Management & Administration 208,475 Total Expenses $ 1,413,975
82% 3% 15%
*From the audited financial statements for the MOSES Fiscal Year of Sept. 1, 2012 to Aug. 31, 2013.
Mike Bollinger River Root Farm Decorah, Iowa Sylvia Burgos Toftness Bull Brook Keep Clear Lake, Wisconsin Dave Campbell Lily Lake Organic Farm Maple Park, Illinois Darlene Coehoorn Viewpoint Organic Acres Rosendale, Wisconsin Carmen Fernholz A-Frame Farm Madison, Minnesota Melinda Hemmelgarn Food Sleuth Columbia, Missouri Nick Olson Prairie Drifter Farm Litchfield, Minnesota Margaret Smith Ash Grove Farm Hampton, Iowa Carla Wright Savanna Hill Farm Cross Plains, Wisconsin
MOSES Staff
MOSES Supporters Many foundations, businesses, and government agencies share our commitment to make farming better for farmers and the environment. Their contributions to MOSES ensure that farmers have access to the education, resources, and expertise needed to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture.
Major Funders
On behalf of the thousands of farmers who benefit from our work, we thank the following organizations and businesses: Albers / Kuhn Family Foundation Annie’s, Inc. Brico Fund Ceres Foundation Clif Bar Family Foundation Farm Aid Frontier Natural Products Co-op Harry Chapin Foundation McKnight Foundation
Newman’s Own Foundation Organic Valley / CROPP Stonyfield Farm, Inc. UNFI Foundation USDA–Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program USDA–Risk Management Agency Whole Foods Market Wisconsin Farmer’s Union
MOSES Organic Farming Conference
59 SPONSORS
David Abazs Round River Farm Finland, Minnesota
contributed to the success of the 2013 MOSES Organic Farming Conference.
Faye Jones Executive Director Harriet Behar Organic Specialist Joe Pedretti Organic Specialist Angie Sullivan Organic Specialist Audrey Alwell Communications Director Jody Padgham Financial Director * Jerry Waller Operations Director Eric Hatling Media Coordinator Jessi Padellford Project Coordinator * Carly Stephenson Website Coordinator * Andrew Violet IT Coordinator Lisa Kivirist Rural Women’s Project Coord. * New staff added in 2013
Grassroots Support
534 INDIVIDUALS
supported organic and sustainable farming by donating to MOSES.
Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service, Inc.
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, Wisconsin 54767
Education, resources, and expertise to help farmers grow organic.
mosesorganic.org 715-778-5775
E D U C A T E
Inspire E m p o w e r
2012 annual report
2012 challenged organic and sustainable farmers. Record
numbers contacted MOSES for recommendations to manage
crops and livestock during a summer of extreme temperatures and devastating drought. They looked to us to set the record
straight when Stanford University released a contentious study
MOSES educates, inspires and empowers farmers
about the value of organic. And, they depended on MOSES to give them a voice in the struggle for a fair and supportive farm bill.
Encouraged by the faith farmers place in our organization,
we worked hard to turn these challenges into opportunities. We helped farmers face the drought with one-to-one advice and
practical information on our website, in the Organic Broadcaster, in a new Organic Fact Sheet, and at our Organic Field Days.
When the Stanford study came out in September, we moved
to thrive in a
quickly to ensure that consumers and other farmers knew the
sustainable,
explain the study’s flaws, and social media to rally support. Our
organic system of agriculture.
true value of organic food and farming. We used our website to
organic specialists explained the benefits of organic production to reporters. At the same time, our set of myth-busting fact sheets armed farmers with facts to counter negative statements.
In the battle for the farm bill, we partnered with national
organizations and served on committees that worked both
regionally and nationally for sustainable interests. We forged
many strong relationships, and continue to work for a farm bill that includes support for organic and sustainable practices.
Our responses to these challenges illustrate how much we
have broadened our services. Our work not only helps ensure
that there are skilled farmers to meet the growing demand for organic food, but also helps create an environment that favors
an organic and sustainable system of agriculture. I am so proud
that MOSES is part of the vanguard that encourages sustainable
farming practices and protects the resources of our shared planet. “Educate, inspire, empower” are words we live by at MOSES.
They guide our actions and show in our accomplishments. I’m happy to share highlights from 2012 in this report.
MOSES Executive Director
Faye takes questions from reporters during the 2012 MOSES Organic Farming Conference.
E D U C A T E At the 2012 MOSES Conference, filmmaker Curt Ellis (King Corn) shares his vision of an organic food system that reaches into our schools.
MOSES Organic Farming Conference Educating farmers to succeed in organic and sustainable production is the foundation of our work. The cornerstone of this foundation is the annual MOSES Organic Farming Conference, which continues to be the country’s largest event about organic and sustainable agriculture. Farmers often tell us that the conference is the highlight of the year. Over 3,200 people attended the 2012 MOSES Conference, which is a 6.5% increase over 2011. Some interesting facts about participants: • They came from across the U.S. and several other countries; the majority came from the Midwest. • 25% identified themselves as sustainable farmers, 22% as certified organic, 19% represented a business, 13% were educators, 8% were farmers making the transition to organic, 7% were students, and the rest were researchers, conventional farmers and farm agents. • Almost half were under age 40, which heralds an encouraging future for organic and sustainable farming. MOSES Organic University™ also saw an increase in the number of participants. The 10 pre-conference courses reached a total of 549 people, which is more than a 16% increase over the previous year. We’re encouraged by this rise—it reflects the growing interest in organic and sustainable production. Yet, we are watching this growth closely. We want to keep these courses small enough to give all participants the chance to get answers to their farming questions.
MOSES Organic Field Days Field days give farmers the chance to learn the latest ideas about specific farming topics. At the same time, farmers, who often work alone, can connect with each other, share ideas and get support. In 2012, we organized 12 field days on organic farms in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Some of these events we did in tandem with other organizations to make the best use of resources. Each event offered a tour of a successful organic farm to illustrate best practices in a specialty, a presentation by the farmer and a local specialist such as a veterinarian or researcher, and a question-and-answer session. At these field days and at tradeshows MOSES attends, farmers can confer with our organic specialists and pick up information to support their operations. Farmers also take advantage of the wealth of information accessible on our website. This year, we added an Online Organic Classifieds section to give farmers a central place to look for farm supplies, jobs, and farm land. Our website experienced 2,367,563 total hits in 2012, demonstrating its worth as a go-to source for information about organic and sustainable farming practices and events.
245,703
individuals accessed information about organic and sustainable farming on the MOSES website.
Aaron Butler talks about the value of large-scale organic production to the 80+ farmers who went to our Organic Field Day in September on the Butlers’ 1600-acre organic farm near Malta, Ill.
Inspire
70
More than new farmers attended our Beginning Livestock training in July, telling us: “this is just what we needed!”
In order to create a world where all agriculture is organic and sustainable, we must inspire more farmers to engage in organic production. MOSES manages several programs that help conventional farmers transition to organic, and encourage new farmers to grow and succeed. Through our Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program, experienced organic farmers pass on the art and science of farming to those new to the field. Both groups find the relationships beneficial. As a mentor in our 2012 program said, “The mentees were very active and engaged, and asked questions in ways that required me to rethink some practices— it was an unanticipated bonus!” A total of 50 participants from Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri and Wisconsin took part in 2012, a 19% increase from the previous year. One reason for this increase is that we provided mentors to farmers in the Spring Rose Cooperative in Wisconsin and the Land Stewardship Project in Minnesota—this combination of services gives people who are new to farming a stable foundation for success. New farmers also find encouragement and training through our New Organic Stewards program, which we operate in partnership with Renewing the Countryside. We introduced the program at the 2012 MOSES Conference with a special track of workshops, two pre-conference Organic University™ courses, and several social activities. More than 175 conference participants identified themselves as “Young Organic Stewards”—we broadened the program’s focus later in the year by changing the name from “Young” to “New.” We awarded over 65 conference scholarships valued at more than $11,000 to new farmers.
E m p o w e r To empower farmers to thrive in a sustainable system of agriculture, we must give them the information they need to succeed in the field, and nurture an environment that supports sustainable and organic production. We do that by helping to create supportive farm policies, by providing networking opportunities for farmers, and by cultivating a public that appreciates and demands organic. In 2012, much of our policy work centered on the once-every-fiveyears farm bill. MOSES and our partners in the National Organic Coalition and the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition worked hard to ensure that the various versions of the farm bill supported organic and sustainable farming practices—and we will continue to encourage passage of a conservation-minded farm bill in 2013. This past spring, we created a set of myth-busting fact sheets: Organic Farming CAN Feed the World, The Facts about Organic Agriculture, and, What You Should be Saying about Organic Farming—a topic ACRES-usa featured in their July publication. We also created a new edition of our popular Guidebook for Organic Certification this past year. MOSES Rural Women’s Project, which champions women working to change the food system, produced three “In Her Boots” on-farm workshops, partnered with the Women, Food & Agriculture Network on four conservation workshops, and presented at farm fairs, including the Mother Earth News Fair in Washington state. Over the past year, we ramped up our conversation with farmers and the general public through social media, and were gratified to see the number of our Facebook fans grow by more than 60%.
Farmers downloaded
106,010
Organic Fact Sheets from our
website in 2012. We added five new topics to our list, for a total of 31 titles.
In the past year, farmers accessed our Gudebook for Organic Certification online nearly 25,000 times, and picked up thousands of print copies at events.
Financial Information for MOSES Fiscal Year* Financials reported are from audited statements based on generally accepted accounting principles for non-profits, which record assets raised for future years in the year received. Expenses:
Income Allocation: Conference Grow Organic Programs Operating Support Special Projects Sales/Goods Sold In-Kind Contributions Miscellaneous Total Income
$ 622,616 567,687 140,988 113,188 66,314 63,415 10,196 $ 1,584,404
Conference Grow Organic Programs Management and General Special Projects Cost of Goods Sold Fundraising Expenses In-Kind Contributions Networking Total Expenses
* Numbers reflect the MOSES fiscal year of Sept. 1, 2011 to Aug. 31, 2012.
Assets: $ 530,128 364,098 138,886 103,833 75,765 87,576 63,415 46,546 $ 1,410,247
Operating and Designated Funds Board-Designated Reserve Allocations Temporarily Restricted
$ 168,974 $ 296,686
Total Net Assets
$ 879,361
$ 413,701
MOSES Supporters We are fortunate that many wonderful foundations, businesses and agencies share our commitment to changing the way America farms. Their generous donations to MOSES ensure that we can continue to cultivate organic and sustainable farmers by providing training, resources, advice and encouragement. On behalf of the many farmers who depend on us, we extend heartfelt thanks to these major funders: Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Annie’s, Inc. Brico Fund Blooming Prairie Foundation Ceres Foundation Clif Bar Family Foundation Farm Aid Frontier Natural Products Co-op McKnight Foundation
Newman’s Own Foundation Organic Valley/CROPP Stonyfield Farms UNFI Foundation USDA – Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Risk Management Whole Foods Market Wisconsin Farmer’s Union
Funding Sources Fiscal Year 9/11- 8/12
Donations 6% Government Grants/ Agreements 17%
Sales 4% Miscellaneous 1%
MOSES Organic Farming Conference Sponsors Dozens of sponsors contribute to the success of the MOSES Conference— it’s truly a nationwide event for the organic community. See the full list of conference sponsors on our website at mosesorganic.org/ofc_sponsors. Grassroots Support Hundreds of individuals also voice their support of organic and sustainable production by donating to MOSES. The generosity of these funders makes it possible for us to educate, inspire and empower farmers to succeed in organic, sustainable agriculture.
Foundation Grants 33%
Earned Income 39%
2012 MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year
Francis and Susan Thicke raise Jersey cows and produce organic dairy products on their farm in Fairfield, Iowa. They are the 2012 MOSES Organic Farmers of the Year.
Francis and Susan Thicke took a worn-out, heavily eroded crop farm and transformed it into a showcase for organic, sustainable land management. Their outstanding land stewardship, farming innovations and outreach efforts earned them the title of 2012 Farmers of the Year, an award they received at the 2012 MOSES Conference in February. Using sound science and keen intuition, the Thickes raise a herd of 80 Jerseys and grow organic crops on their farm, Radiance Dairy in Fairfield, Iowa. They keep their cows out on pasture April through December. Their crop rotation includes hay and small grains to minimize weed pressure—usually, they only need to cultivate once per season to keep their soybean crop clean. Among their conservation-minded land management strategies are windbreaks of fruiting trees and shrubs for wildlife habitat. Value-added products are key to the farm’s profitability. Radiance Dairy organic products include milk, yogurt, several cheeses, and soft-serve ice cream mix for restaurants. They market the farm’s products within four miles of their fields, doubling the benefits of organic by providing a locally grown, locally made product. Francis and Susan educate other farmers by example, by teaching at events and by participating in political activities. We appreciate their advocacy efforts, which lead to increased local, regional and national public support for organic agriculture. See our website to submit a nomination for MOSES Farmer of the Year: www.mosesorganic.org/foy.html.
MOSES Staff
2012 MOSES Board of Directors President: Linda Halley, Gardens of Eagan, Minn. Vice President: Atina Diffley, Organic Farming Works, Minn. Treasurer: Carmen Fernholz, A-Frame Farm, Minn. Secretary: Darlene Coehoorn, Viewpoint Organic Acres, Wis.
Front row: Jody Padgham, Financial Manager, and Faye Jones, Executive Director Back row: Audrey Alwell, Communications Coordinator, Jill Goodrich, Office Administrator, Luisa Gerasimo, Development Director, Eric Hatling, Media & Outreach Coordinator, and Jessi Padellford, Project Coordinator
Members: Roger Blobaum, Blobaum and Associates, DC Dave Campbell, Lily Lake Organic Farm, Ill. Melinda Hemmelgarn, Food Sleuth, Mo. Margaret Smith, Ash Grove Farm, Iowa Carla Wright, Savanna Hill Farm, Wis.
MOSES Organic Specialists Angie Sullivan Joe Pedretti Harriet Behar Top rows: Carmen, Margaret, Linda Front row: Darlene, Carla, Melinda, Roger, Atina and Faye; not pictured: Dave
Training, resources and expertise to help farmers grow organic successfully: Organic Specialists
On-call help from experienced organic specialists
MOSES Organic Farming Conference & Organic University™
Country’s largest conference and tradeshow on organic, sustainable agriculture
Organic Field Days and Trainings
On-farm events with latest ideas, tools and research
Organic Broadcaster & Organic Link News for the organic community
Guidebook for Organic Certification
36-page book on certification process and rules
Organic Fact Sheets
Easy-to-digest information on organic production
Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory
List of cooperatives, agencies, buyers, processors & more
MOSES Bookstore
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767
715-778-5775 www.mosesorganic.org
Great selection of books about organic farming
Special Projects: Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program New Organic Stewards Rural Women’s Project © 2012 MOSES
2011 at MOSES
A
s the demand for organic products grows, so does the need for MOSES’ educational services. In November 2011, MOSES’ eight-member board of directors captured the organization’s role with a revision of the Mission Statement: MOSES educates, inspires, and empowers farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture. The accompanying vision statement, MOSES envisions a world where all agriculture is organic and sustainable, clearly shows our commitment to the task. MOSES has done well holding the line through the challenging times faced by many non-profit organizations in 2011. The continued commitment to our work from individuals, businesses, foundations and government organizations has kept our organization strong. We thank all of our supporters – we couldn’t do it without you. MOSES has accomplished much in 2011 to fulfill our mission and bring us closer to our vision. Some of the highlights include: the continued success of the Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring project, new funding for our growing Young Organic Stewards program, continued work on our farm financial management project, events offered through the Rural Women’s Project and Grow Organic, and workshops and articles highlighting important findings in the Organic Research Forum. Read about these projects and more in the pages that follow.
Grow Organic Programs
T
he Grow Organic Program evolved from our Help Wanted: Organic Farmers campaign. The goal is to assist an increasing number of farmers in the adoption and integration of organic and sustainable production practices. Our outreach efforts assist producers in making sound decisions and addressing common challenges. With ongoing support, MOSES will continue to create and implement programs to help farmers transition to sustainable and organic farming systems that are ecologically sound, economically viable and socially just through information, education and research. Our key projects and programs include:
Field Days, Trainings, Conferences and Trade Shows MOSES’ on-farm field days and trainings are a cornerstone to our farmer-focused programming. In 2011 over a thousand participants attended our field days and trainings. MOSES organic specialists answered hundreds of questions at large traditional agriculture shows in several Midwestern states. MOSES also supported project partners and offered resources at a variety of farming conferences throughout the region via our resource booth.
1-888-551-GROW Our toll free number staffed by organic specialists was used by many to find answers to pressing questions about organic production and certification. In addition, office staff and specialists answered thousands of emails and online requests from farmers and others looking for production and marketing information and resources.
Organic Broadcaster Newspaper This farmer-focused publication now has a distribution of over 9,000 households and is also available to anyone who wants to access it for free on the web.
Rural Women’s Project With a goal of increasing the voice and impact of women in the organic and sustainable farming and food community, this project provides networking, educational and training opportunities to women farmers and eco-preneurs in the Midwest. Lisa Kivirist, the program’s founder and director, is a distinguished Food & Community Fellow with the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, which focuses on championing the voice of women in sustainable agriculture.
Young Organic Stewards In 2011, MOSES received a $231,000 three-year grant from the USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program to continue expanding a pilot program focusing on “Young Organic Stewards.” Started in 2009, the Young Organic Stewards program has a goal of educating, inspiring, and empowering young farmers to thrive in a sustainable, organic system of agriculture. This program offers a collection of conference workshops and activities, and electronic communications for 18-28 year olds interested or involved in organic and sustainable farming. The new funding will allow us to continue the important program, in partnership with Renewing the Countryside, and will be expanded with on-farm trainings funded by the new grant for 2012 through 2014. “The most important thing I gained from the conference and the Young Steward Workshops was the validation from everyone I met. To talk to farmers, who love their jobs and are willing to give detailed, practical advice was incredible. I am very grateful for the scholarship.” ~ Rose Cherneff
Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program Designed in 2008, the year-long Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program is a continual success story with over 90 mentees to date receiving first-hand guidance from experienced organic farmers. Harriet Behar, MOSES organic outreach specialist, creates successful matches between mentors and mentees using type of farm and geographic proximity as criteria to ensure a mutually rewarding and educational experience and provides ongoing communication and evaluation to the participants. Mentors and mentees visit with each other to discuss a wide range of topics, from farm planning, marketing, and seed selection to cover cropping, pest management, and soil fertility. Twenty-three mentees learned from 19 mentors in 2011. Participants included residents from four states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois and Iowa. The assistance given to new farmers through this program lessens the learning curve and produces successful organic farmers more quickly than would be created by their experiences alone. Comments from participants: “I think the main thing I am offering my mentee is encouragement that his transition to organic is on the right track. We discuss the various approaches and try to find something that works for his operation, soil fertility and dairy cow ration issues.” “My mentors’ farm visit this June was very well timed and helped us learn quite a bit about appropriate tillage and cover crops for our soil in a late and wet spring.”
Outreach MOSES continues to provide the organic community with both print and electronic resources. While recognizing the continued importance of providing print resources, we have also expanded our web and electronic communication presence. With almost a million hits annually, the MOSES website is a proven destination for information and resources about organic farming and certification. Especially popular are the online editions of the Organic Broadcaster newspaper, the Events Calendar featuring regional farming activities, the searchable Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory, electronic copies of over 30 fact sheets, the popular Guidebook to Organic Certification, online book sales, and information about MOSES programs, including online registration for events such as field days and the Organic Farming Conference. Updated on a daily basis, the website is a portal to vast quantities of information about organic production and activities. Each issue of the MOSES monthly e-newsletter, highlighting topics of interest to the organic community, is sent to over 10,000 email addresses. Short introductions leading readers through links to more detailed information about government programs, organic industry activities, and MOSES projects allow busy readers to know in a glance what is going on in our world. Keeping up with the times, MOSES has expanded our electronic outreach through continued development of our Facebook page. MOSES now regularly communicates with close to 2,000 “friends” from more than 19 countries. Over the past eighteen months, MOSES has developed and implemented a new database to better track the complex relationships and multiple roles of individuals who interact with MOSES.
Agricultural Policy Work MOSES staff members participate on various national and regional coalitions to offer a farmer voice to political discussions and decisions on priorities for action. As members of both the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) and the National Organic Coalition (NOC), MOSES is honored to do this work and our participation is highly valued and well respected.
Fearless Farm Finances Fearless Farm Finances is a three-year project funded by the USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. The primary product of this project is a book on farm financial management titled Fearless Farm Finances, due out in February 2012. Also, a successful two-day financial workshop was held in December, and in 2012 an OU course and several conference workshops will continue to target the demand for financial training and resources.
Organic Farming Conference (OFC) MOSES is probably best known for organizing the nation’s largest organic farming conference, held annually at the end of February in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In its 22nd year the conference attracted more than 2,900 people, featured 70 workshops and attracted over 150 exhibitors, who were all served an abundance of organic food! Over $47,000 in scholarships were awarded to 337 participants.
Organic University Since 2001, MOSES has planned day-long intensive courses to precede the OFC. In 2011, we offered nine courses to almost 600 participants covering diverse topics ranging from growing mushrooms to small grains.
Organic Research Forum The last five years has seen large growth of organic research projects at both public land-grant universities and private institutions. The Organic Research Forum at the OFC has helped bring that research directly to organic producers. Farmers, students and researchers connect through Research Forum Workshops that allow university researchers to present the findings and implications of their recent work, the Research Poster Display, which allows researchers and graduate students an opportunity to display their work and discuss the findings with conference attendees, and Networking Meetings between university researchers and the organic industry.
2011 MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year: The Vetter Family
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ince 2003, the annual MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year Award has been presented to an outstanding organic farmer or farm family to recognize those who practice outstanding land stewardship, innovation, and outreach. In February 2011, MOSES introduced the Vetter Family of The Grain Place outside of Marquette, Nebraska as the 2011 MOSES Organic Farmer of the year. Father and son, Don and Dave Vetter, with Dave’s brother-in-law, Mike Herman, have produced a wide range of organic crops not typically seen in the region, such as edible soybeans, edible dry beans, blue and white corn, popcorn, heirloom barley, flax, amaranth, lupines, sunflowers, and pasture.
The 280-acre farm, which has been organic since 1975, features small fields and diverse rotations. The pastures are rotated on a nine year rotation and support a cow/calf herd of direct marketed grass finished beef. Fruit and nut trees are planted in buffer zones to increase biodiversity and add additional income. The Vetter farm has hosted numerous farm tours for local, regional, national, and international groups and serves as a model of sustainability. Dave Vetter recommends that famers never stop observing, experimenting, and building upon the good work of enhancing their ecosystem, both below and above ground. Nominations for the MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year Award are accepted March through September 15th. Learn more on our website.
MOSES was proud to have the generous support of the following foundations, businesses and government agencies in 2011, working with us to benefit organic and sustainable agriculture into the future. AgStar Fund for Rural America Albers-Kuhn Family Foundation Brico Fund Carolyn Foundation Ceres Foundation Farm Aid Frontier Natural Products Co-op Harry Chapin Foundation Horizon Organic
McKnight Foundation Newman’s Own Foundation Stonyfield Farms UNFI USDA – Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program USDA – Risk Management Agency Whole Foods Market Wisconsin Farmers Union
In addition, the strong grassroots support from hundreds of individuals, families and local businesses provide a solid footing for MOSES programs. We thank you for helping organic farmers to succeed!
Financials Fiscal Year 2010 - 2011 September 1, 2010 – August 31, 2011 Audited statement
Expenses:
Income:
Programs Conference/OU Grow Organic Program Special Projects Broadcaster Newspaper Cost of Sales Fundraising Expense Management and General Total Expenses
Programs Conference/OU Grow Organic Program Special Projects Broadcaster Newspaper Sales Operating Support Miscellaneous Total Income
$482,049 $256,375 $93,586 $44,155 $57,958 $64,072 $284,332 $1,282,527
Assets Operating Funds Restricted Funds – Board Designated Temporarily Restricted Total Net Assets
$562,519 $233,521 $170,150 $42,585 $53,736 $271,798 $26,632 $1,360,941 $158,087 $215,942 $331,175 $705,204
Although this annual report represents 2011, the financials reported represent the MOSES fiscal year. Financials reported are audited by Wegner LLP, and are based on generally accepted accounting principles for nonprofits. Temporarily Restricted Assets result from contributions and other inflows of assets whose use is limited by stipulations that either expire by time or are fulfilled obligations.
MOSES Staff: Faye Jones, Executive Director Harriet Behar, Organic Outreach Specialist Jill Goodrich, Office Administrator Nancy Frank, Development Director Eric Hatling, Media and Public Relations Coordinator Jody Padgham, Financial Manager Joe Pedretti, Organic Education Specialist Angie Sullivan, Organic Resource Specialist Sarah Broadfoot, Administrative Support Jessie Padellford, Administrative Assistant PO Box 339 Spring Valley, WI 54767 715-778-5775 mosesorganic.org
2011 MOSES Board of Directors: Linda Halley, President, Gardens of Eagan, MN Atina Diffley, Vice President, Organic Farming Works, MN Roger Blobaum, Treasurer, Blobaum & Associates, DC Darlene Coehoorn, Secretary, Viewpoint Acres, WI Carmen Fernholz, A-Frame Farm, MN Melinda Hemmelgarn, Food Sleuth, MO Margaret Smith, Ash Grove Farm, IA Carla Wright, Savanna Hill Farm, WI
A MOSE S Welcome 2010 proved to be another year of significant growth for the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES). Now settled into a downtown office building in Spring Valley, Wisconsin, we have seen our activities and impact increase as we leverage the benefits the office provides. Comfortable staff offices, a sunny meeting room, a public library, a staff kitchen, a dedicated room for the computer server, plus room for books and other materials, all support an increased efficiency and capacity of the organization. A garage was added during the summer to house the MOSES vehicle on-site, while also providing additional storage and increasing the security and safety of staff with a new back entrance. Utilizing several local contractors, the project was the talk of our small town. The creation of a new Director of Development and Systems position, and the hiring of Kelli Cameron to fill that role, was the result of an important assessment and reorganization of the organization’s staffing needs. Now with nine full-time employees, the staff has doubled in five years reflecting the growth and demand for organic food production. We also recognized the need to spend additional time and resources on human resources and staff training as responsibilities become more focused and specialized. The many changes and increased support in Washington, D.C. for organic agriculture have resulted in a growing opportunity of our organization to support national organic agriculture issues. The amount of time dedicated to national activities continues to increase. Although the MOSES programs are in demand across the country, we continue to provide numerous important services and activities for the Midwest organic community, and feature many of these successful and well-established programs in this annual report. MOSES looks forward to a productive and eventful 2011 focusing on the continued growth in numbers of farmers and acreage devoted to organic and sustainable practices. The health of our people and our planet depend on it! Thank you to all of the MOSES supporters, individuals, businesses, foundations and government organizations, for an ongoing commitment to MOSES programs and the important audience of organic and sustainable farmers supported through our educational initiatives.
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A MOSE S History MOSES developed in 1996 from the activities of the Wisconsin Organic Crop Improvement Agency, as the need for educational resources about organic production and certification was recognized. MOSES was incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in 1999, when the primary focus was the organization of the Upper Midwest Organic Farming Conference. The organization has since grown into a convener of farmers, researchers, students and industry professionals for a wide diversity of year-round organic and sustainable educational programs. MOSES serves farmers striving to produce high-quality, healthful food using organic and sustainable techniques. These farmers produce more than just food, they support thriving ecosystems and vibrant rural communities. Our mission is to help agriculture make the transition to a sustainable organic system of farming that is ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially just, though information, education, research, and integrating the broader community into this effort. The goal of the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service is to increase the number of farmers successfully using organic and sustainable farming practices, while also increasing the amount of acreage in organic production.
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Grow Organic Initiative In 2005, the Help Wanted: Organic Farmers educational campaign was launched to draw attention to the expanding need for organic production and increase the number of organic farmers to satisfy the rapidly growing consumer demand. Now, six years later, the campaign has grown and evolved to reflect the needs of farmers and the industry. To better reflect its goals, it changed names in 2010 and is now known as the Grow Organic Initiative. The goal of the Grow Organic Initiative is to assist an increasing number of farmers in the adoption and integration of organic and sustainable production practices. The outreach efforts identified in assist producers in making sound decisions and addressing common challenges. Key highlights of the past five years include:
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• Dedicated staff: two organic specialists focusing on outreach, education and policy improvement and an event and resource coordinator to manage the planning and implementation of trainings and resources. • Enhanced resources: workshops, trainings and farm field days, many in collaboration with regional partners. Development and distribution of thirty fact sheets on various organic production topics for farmers. Annual updates and an online, searchable version of the
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Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory. Ongoing improvement of the website, providing online access to numerous educational resources. Hands-on programming: implementation and continuation of a successful Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring program matching experienced organic farmers with new organic farmers. Customized support: answering over 1,200 toll-free calls about organic certification and production through the Organic Infoline. Diversified marketing: utilization of the public news networks, social media including Facebook and Twitter, and presence at regional traditional ag shows and conferences for increased promotion of organic agriculture, programs and resources. National influence: working with numerous partners to suggest change to the federal farm and food policies. Influencing institutional education: developing teaching modules with college programs on sustainable farming techniques.
The past five years paved the road for the success of the Grow Organic Initiative. With ongoing support and continuous improvements, MOSES will continue to create and implement programs to help farmers transition to sustainable and organic farming systems that are ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially just through information, education, and research.
Organic Broadcaster Newspaper Expands Distribution The Organic Broadcaster offers farmer-focused, current news and information that assists farmers in successful organic production and offers relevant updates about the organic community. Late in 2009, the MOSES Board of Directors decided to expand the impact of our bi-monthly publication, the Organic Broadcaster by offering it as a free publication to friends and supporters. The value of the publication was recognized as being unique in the organic industry, with farmer-focused, productionoriented articles, up-to-date industry news, a large number of organic-dedicated business and classified advertisements, and updates on Federal policies and programs. In November, the first free issue was sent to over 8,000 households, and also offered online in both HTML and PDF formats. A new design was unveiled, offering a more open and readable format. Now this valuable publication will be widely available at no charge to thousands of farmers and others who benefit from its content.
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National Policy Work Continues to be a Focus MOSES Executive Director Faye Jones and Organic Specialist Harriet Behar interact with numerous partners throughout the year to affect change in Washington, D.C. MOSES provides a unique contribution in representing the farmer voice on several national coalitions. The staff ’s strong farm experience and depth of knowledge of organic systems is well respected and relied on by organic industry partners for the policy work. The National Organic Action Plan, developed by the National Organic Coalition, was presented to national, state and local policymakers with recommendations on specific programs to support the advancement of organic agriculture in the United States. Many of these suggestions have already been implemented and others will be advocated for inclusion in the 2012 Food and Farm Bill. A large grant project in partnership with the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition and funded by the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) will help integrate organic into the NRCSConservation Stewardship (CSP) and Environmental Quality Incentives (EQIP) programs. Harriet is the lead on the NRCS project training team, charged with developing programs to train government employees and contractors about organic practices. The participation of MOSES on numerous state and regional advisory committees has resulted in greater awareness and acceptance of organic agriculture in the Midwest and throughout the country.
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2010 Farmer of the Year In February, John, Jane and Janake Fischer-Merritt were honored as the 2010 MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year. The family owns and operates Food Farm, an organic vegetable farm near Wrenshall, Minnesota. “We are a community-supported farm that is more diversified than most CSA (community supported agriculture) farms, with a big root cellar so we can deliver winter and summer shares,” said John FisherMerritt. They have delivered produce through their CSA since 1994. The Fisher-Merritts approach their farm as a living organism, and manage their soil so it can be farmed forever. Diversity of production includes grazing poultry as part of the system to improve soil, lessen weeds and manage insect populations. In 2000, the Fisher-Merritts designed and built an innovative energy efficient earth-heated root cellar/cooler which has enough storage to supply their CSA members and the retail stores in Duluth, Minnesota with root crops throughout the winter. They farm in a way that allows each of them to explore interests beyond farming, enhancing their community through their contributions to art and culture, including a local film festival that takes place in a barn. Since 2003, the annual MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year Award has been presented to an outstanding organic farmer or farm family to recognize those who practice outstanding land stewardship, innovation, and outreach.
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MOSES Projects: Organic Farming Conference The 21st annual Organic Farming Conference (OFC) held on February 25-27, brought 2,701 people to La Crosse to learn, network and celebrate. A participant’s comments sum up the event’s impact well: “The conference provided exactly what I hoped - energy, excitement, enthusiasm for farming and a flood of ideas on getting started!” Organic University In its 10th year, the Organic University hosted 431 people for ten day-long courses prior to the beginning of the Organic Farming Conference. This dedicated time to one focus area allowed for intensive learning and dialogue with each other and the course facilitators. Organic Research Forum Dedicated funding supports a workshop track and additional activities at the OFC designed to bring the results of organic research to farmers, and allow farmers to influence and comment on organic research. The annual forum is also a venue for organic researchers to learn from and collaborate with each other and with graduate students. Farmer-to-Farmer Mentor Program Through leadership and organizational planning, MOSES worked with 24 mentees and 19 mentors in the second year of this highly-valued program. A participant shares: “Thanks to the awesome mentor program which got me off on the right foot in organic and sustainable farming. This program gave me courage to keep going... before this I was confused, scared and nearly gave up.” The program matches new or transitioning organic farmers with experienced organic farmers in their geographic area who also operate similar farming systems.
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Rural Women’s Project Over 1,000 women are involved through the project’s “Planting Fresh Seeds” workshops, which highlighted case studies of successful women farmers and entrepreneurs along with a synthesis or resources and grants that prioritize women. Numerous other initiatives within the project support, educate and highlight women’s agricultural success. In addition, the project’s director participates in national programs including The White House Project, in support of organic and sustainably-focused rural women. MOSES Events and Outreach MOSES staff lead, organize or attend 50 field days, trainings, conferences and other events throughout the year, offering a wide diversity of resources and support to thousands of farmers. Farm Financial Management A three-year project funded by the USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Project is underway with the primary outcomes identified as a book simplifying recordkeeping and financial management for farmers and a two-day training on the basics of farm financial management. Midwest Season Extension Website In a partnership with the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, MOSES develops a website with hundreds of resources, events, program listings and project reports at http://www.midwestseasonextension.org/ Monthly Electronic Newsletter MOSES disseminates a monthly electronic newsletter with reports on activities, government programs, and industry updates. Each issue is emailed to over 7,000 addresses. Guidebook to Organic Certification First published in 2005, this valuable resource was updated in 2010 with new pasture regulations and other changes to the organic standards. The easily readable question and answer format is a benefit to many farmers to interpret the policies and processes.
Learn more at: www.mosesorganic.org
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The following foundations and government agencies generously supported MOSE S in 2010: Albers Kuhn Family Foundation Blooming Prairie Foundation Brico Fund Ceres Foundation CROPP/Organic Valley: Farmers Advocating for Organics Farm Aid Frontier Natural Products Co-op Horizon Organic McKnight Foundation Newman’s Own Foundation Outpost Natural Foods Stoneyfield Farms UNFI USDA – Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Development Program USDA – Risk Management Agency Whole Foods Market, Inc.
MOSES thanks the hundreds of individuals, families, and businesses that continue to support organic and sustainable farmers through their donations to MOSES programs and initiatives. Your support is helping organic farmers succeed!
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Financials for Fiscal Year 2009-2010 September 1, 2009 – August 31, 2010 Expenses: Conference Organic University Grow Organic Initiative Special Projects Broadcaster Newspaper Cost of Sales Fundraising Office Overhead Office Building Total Expenses
Income: 392,097 39,792 263,046 123,651 22,820 39,655 118,385 100,183 31,607 $1,131,236
Conference 447,391 Organic University 53,250 Grow Organic Initiative 92,961 Special Projects 145,508 Broadcaster Newspaper 38,489 Sales 53,072 Operating Support 210,033 Miscellaneous 30,351 Total Income $1,071,055 Assets: Operating Funds 209,787 Restricted Funds–Board Designated 266,327 Temporarily Restricted 157,949 Total Net Assets $634,063 Although this annual report represents 2010, the financials reported represent the MOSES fiscal year. Financials reported are audited by Wegner LLP, and are based on generally accepted accounting principles for nonprofits. Temporarily Restricted Assets result from contributions and other inflows of assets whose use is limited by stipulations that either expire by time or are fulfilled obligations. Special Project Programs include payments for joint project work to other collaborating nonprofit organizations.
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MOSE S Staff:
Back Row (left to right) Joe Pedretti, Eric Hatling, Cathy Olyphant, Chris Blanchard, Atina Diffley, Carla Wright and Roger Blobaum Middle Row (left to right) Harriet Behar, Sarah Broadfoot, Jody Padgham, Angie Sullivan, Kelli Cameron and Erin Altemus Front Row (left to right) Tom Miller, Linda Halley, Darlene Coehoorn and Faye Jones Not pictured Melinda Hemmelgarn and Margaret Smith
P.O. Box 339, Spring Valley, WI 54767 p. (715) 778-5775 • f. (715) 778-5773 www.mosesorganic.org
Faye Jones, Executive Director Harriet Behar, Organic Specialist Sarah Broadfoot, Organic Farming Conference Assistant Kelli Cameron, Director of Development and Systems Eric Hatling, Media and Public Relations Coordinator Cathy Olyphant, Office Administrator Jody Padgham, Associate Director Joe Pedretti, Organic Specialist Sarah Stone, Marketing Coordinator and Webmaster Angie Sullivan, Resource and Events Coordinator
2010 MOSE S Board of Directors: Linda Halley, President, Gardens of Eagan, Minnesota Atina Diffley, VP, Organic Farming Works, Minnesota Roger Blobaum, Treasurer, Blobaum & Assoc., Washington, D.C. Darlene Coehoorn, Secretary, Viewpoint Acres, Wisconsin Chris Blanchard, Rock Spring Farm, Iowa Melinda Hemmelgarn, Food Sleuth, Missouri Tom Miller, R & G Miller & Sons, Inc., Wisconsin Margaret Smith, Ash Grove Farm, Iowa Carla Wright, Savanna Hill Farm, Wisconsin
2009
Annual Report
Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES) www.mosesorganic.org
Our mission is to help agriculture make the transition to a sustainable organic system of farming that is ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially just, through information, education, research, and integrating the broader community into this effort.
a MOSES
WELCOME 2009 has been a year of exciting growth and activity at MOSES. The purchase of our new office building in downtown Spring Valley, Wisconsin has been an overwhelmingly positive change for the organization, the staff and the community. We are well settled in and systems are flowing smoothly! The new office has us well positioned to keep pace in serving the needs of our growing industry in 2010 and beyond.
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With the addition of a new staff position, outreach coordinator Jeff Gunderson, we have increased our capacity to respond to the educa-
tional and outreach needs of farmers and others around organic and sustainable production. We
detail in this report the continuation of numerous successful initiatives.
It has been heartwarming for us to see continued funding from many familiar, but also new sources in these challenging economic times. It is obvious to us that the community around us values organic and sustainable farmers, and the work MOSES does to encourage and support them. It has also been a rewarding year of support from Washington, in the tone of funding for several federal programs that may be used to support organic farmers. It has been a stimulating year of organic in the news and in people’s minds. We look forward to 2010 and the continued development of programs and resources that ensure we all have access to good clean food, and that the farmers who produce it are sustained and sustainable.
a MOSES
HISTORY MOSES grew out of the activities of the WI OCIA certification agency educational fund in 1996, whose members and board recognized that there was a growing demand for educational resources about organic agriculture.
The Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES) is a non-profit 501c3 education-outreach organization working to promote sustainable and organic agriculture in the Midwest.
MOSES serves farmers striving to produce high-quality, healthful food using organic and sustainable techniques. These farmers The organization was legally incorporated as a 501c3 nonprofit produce more than just food; they in 1999, with organic farming education as its mission. support thriving ecosystems and Early MOSES activities focused on managing the ever-growing vibrant rural communities. Upper Midwest Organic Farming Conference, first held and MOSES offers a variety of proorganized by WI OCIA in 1989. grams to assist farmers, agricul-
Today MOSES offers year-round education about tural educators, organizations organic farming and certification through a variety and others requesting information. We organize events and of resources, trainings, events and field days. provide resources and referrals to The staff, originally just Executive Director Faye Jones, has now help people learn more about the grown to eight full time positions. In April of 2009 MOSES growing opportunities in organic purchased an office building and moved the organization agriculture. to downtown Spring Valley, Wisconsin. MOSES’ goal is to have more farmers successfully using organic and sustainable farming practices.
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new MOSES
OFFICE The purchase of an office building in Spring Valley has been a giant leap forward in the organization’s development. In
2008, the MOSES board began discussing the need for an office move as the organization was outgrowing its trailer house office. After much searching and background work, by March of 2009 MOSES was the proud owner of a spacious, reason-
ably priced office building. A formal open house was held on May 19th, inviting neighbors and MOSES fans to stop by for a look. We now have the space to grow, but not a large financial burden to shoulder.
The new office has brought many physical improvements to the organization:
• Private offices for in-house staff. • A beautiful, sunny conference room. • A room dedicated to our expanding books and print resources. • A front “lobby” holding the MOSES expanded lending library. • A kitchen/break room with cooking facilities. • A public presence on the town’s main street, encouraging interaction
with the local community as well as with MOSES constituents in general.
Overall, the office move has had positive impact way beyond expectations. ED Faye Jones claims
“The new office has us well positioned to keep pace in serving the needs of our rapidly growing industry.” Improved Internal Administrative Systems Improvements in several internal systems, including the development of an enhanced personnel benefits package, the hiring of an on-call human resources consultant and contracting with an external payroll service have been direct consequences of our expanded capacity.
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expanded MOSES staff
NEW OUTREACH COORDINATOR
In May of 2009 MOSES brought on a second outreach staff person, Jeff Gunderson.
The addition of Jeff’s position doubles MOSES’ capacity to provide direct outreach to farmers and others about organic production and certification and sustainable farming practices. Jeff came to MOSES from an organic research
position at North Dakota State University in Dickinson, ND. MOSES is thrilled to add Jeff’s expertise in organic crop production and research to our already strong outreach program. In his first eight months, Jeff became the first organic “technical service provider” (TSP) to the NRCS, began working on curriculum content for our Sustainable Ag. in Western Wisconsin Partnership and has attended numerous events and trainings where his expertise has been highly valuable. He is also the coordinator of the new Organic Research Forum.
renewed focus on
RESEARCH
MOSES is proud to have secured three years of funding in this project is to create an ongoing diamid-2009 that will support an ongoing initiative to connect log and atmosphere of belonging for reorganic researchers to the farmers they serve. The key- searchers interested in organic issues, to stone of this project is an Organic Research Forum, further collaborations and peer-support to be held annually in conjunction with the MO- for their work. Connected to the ExtenSES Organic Farming Conference. The Forum will sion-generated eOrganic web resource, bring together researchers interested in organic, graduate this initiative will be ongoing, with nastudents, and farmers to hold discussions and learn about tional effect. current research and research needs. An expanded goal of
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MOSES
PROJECTS
• 20th Anniversary
MOSES Organic Farming Conference (OFC). A special celebration for the 20th annual Organic Farming Conference on Feb 26-28, 2009 brought 2600+ individuals from 37 states to La Crosse, Wis. for inspiring education, great food and inspiring conversation.
• Organic University. Ten day-long intensive courses were offered to 468 farmers the day before the OFC. • Organic Research Forum. Development work began on offering organic research presentations, poster sessions and peer discussions for researchers and students at each annual Organic Farming Conference beginning in 2010.
• Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program.
24 new farmers worked with 20 experienced organic producers to learn the “tricks of the trade.”
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• MOSES 2009 Organic Farmer of the Year Award.
Tom and Irene Frantzen, of Frantzen Farm, New Hampton, IA, receive the 2009 “MOSES Farmer of the Year” award.
• Help Wanted: Organic Farmers. MOSES’ outreach
to farmers about successful, sustainable organic production continued to be a primary focus through the Help Wanted program. Staff hosted tables at several large ag. shows in several states. We attended the National FFA convention as well as many regional conferences and other events. New fact sheets were created, the toll free hotline brought in hundreds of calls and several organic field days were well attended.
• Rural Women’s Project (RWP). Ten women farm-
ers and rural business leaders networked and learned how to work with media and communicate their message. An exciting new feature of the 2009 RWP was the
development and implementation of a series of training and networking seminars titled, “See Jane Grow: How Women Ecopreneurs are Leading America’s Rural Renaissance.”
base accessible from the website. A monthly e-newsletter updates hundreds of subscribers on issues of interest to the organic community. MOSES is now on Twitter and Facebook!
In 2009 this joint project of the UW River Falls, Chippewa Valley Technical College, and MOSES hosted a one day workshop on high tunnel production, attended by 250, and a Local Foods Conference, attended by 225. This unique partnership offers support for degree programs and curriculum development, as well as community outreach, in sustainable farming systems.
20-page bi-monthly newspaper, offering farmer-based organic news, reaches over 2,400 individuals, families and businesses.
• Sustainable Ag. in Western Wis. Partnership.
• Organic Broadcaster Newsletter. Each issue of our • Networking. Executive Director Faye Jones and
Organic Specialist Harriet Behar participated in numerous regional and national meetings and events with peer MOSES Web Resources. News and information organizations to discuss utilization and implementation about organic and sustainable farming is at your finger- of federal programs useful to organic farmers. tips on the MOSES website. The popular Upper MidLearn more at www.mosesorganic.org! west Organic Resource Directory was reprinted in the 9th edition, and is now a fully searchable, on-line data
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FARMER outreach
Web resources, fact sheets, book sales and participation in over 30 conferences, trade shows, field days and workshops brings MOSES resources and staff knowledge to interested conventional, transitioning and organic farmers throughout the Midwest. Our extroverted educational team is happy to engage beginners or experienced producers in conversation and information sharing, either in person, over the phone or via email. Our toll-free “Organic Info Hotline” contin-
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ues to draw hundreds of calls per year. Fact sheets and other resources are updated regularly, with new topics added frequently. Our participation in the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) conference and numerous large ag. trade shows allows those curious about organic to take that first important step in accessing resources for sometimes confusing questions. MOSES is a valuable “go-to” resource for anyone with questions about organic production and certification or sustainable farming.
Collaborating
with Partner Farming Organizations
MOSES organized and hosted 16 organic trainings and farm field days in 2009 in partnership with many of our valued partner organizations in the sustainable farming community. These collaborative efforts are important because they enable us to combine our resources, promote a stronger message and reach more farmers. Some of our collaborators in 2009 included the Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI); Land Stewardship Project (LSP); the Wisconsin Department of Ag., Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP); Iowa State University Extension Service; and the University of Minnesota Extension Service.
“Funds for Farmers”
Connecting Farmers to Expanded Federal Grants and Programs Hundreds of hours of hard work by key MOSES staffers Faye Jones and Harriet Behar, as well as that of numerous national partners, led to strong gains for organic farm support in the 2008 farm bill, and federal programming overall. A key piece of MOSES’ 2009 work has been educating about and connecting farmers to these expanded federal programs. We are proud to report that Wisconsin and Minnesota were top states in numbers of farmers to sign up for 2009 Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Organic Initiative and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), both of which have funding available to reward and support organic conservation measures.
MOSES will be doing ongoing work to ensure that organic and sustainable farmers know of and use these and other federal programs. To this end, we have created a webpage and accompanying fact sheet, titled “Funds for Farmers” (www.mosesorganic.org/fundsforfarmers. html), which contain regularly updated information on government and other programs of benefit to organic and sustainable farmers. Having fought hard for more parity in support of organic research and production in federal programs, MOSES feels it is imperative that we help farmers learn about and utilize these programs. We will continue to make this work a priority.
page 9
Sept. 1, 2008 - Aug. 31, 2009
Financials FY 08-09 EXPENSES Conference 441,294 OU 45,301 Broadcaster Newspaper 37,086 Fundraising Expense 62,754 Cost of Sales 47,176 Help Wanted Programming 209,267 Grants/Projects 82,198 Office Overhead 47,537 Building Expense 104,868 Capital Expenses 2,334 ___________________________ Total Expenses 1,079,815 6% sales 2% misc. 8% indiv. donors 9% gov’t grants 20% foundations
page 10
54% programs
INCOME 459,487 Conference 63,555 OU Broadcaster Newspaper 43,374 87,392 Fundraising 65,079 Sales Help Wanted Support 216,544 Grants/Projects/ 123,468 Agreements 15,395 Misc. ___________________________ Total Revenue 1,074,284 LIABILITIES Bldg. Loan
73,567
MOSES Income Sources 54% PROGRAMS programs 54% foundations 20% 20% FOUNDATIONS government grants 9% 9% GOVERNMENT GRANTS individual donors 8% 8% sales 6%INDIVIDUAL DONORS misc 2% 6% SALES 2% MISC.
The following foundations and government agencies generously supported MOSES in 2009. Albers-Kuhn Family Foundation Blooming Prairie Foundation Brico Fund Ceres Foundation, Inc. CROPP/Organic Valley Farmers Advocating For Organics Frontier Natural Products Co-op Horizon Organic McKnight Foundation Newman’s Own Foundation Stonyfield Farms USDA – RMA Whole Foods Market 5% Day
Though there are too many to list here, MOSES would like to thank the hundreds of individuals, families and organic-focused businesses that helped support organic and sustainable farmers through their support of MOSES programs and initiatives in 2009.
page 11
Our mission is to help agriculture make the transition to a sustainable organic system of farming that is ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially just, through information, education, research, and integrating the broader community into this effort.
STAFF
Jeff Gunderson Outreach Coordinator
Jody Padgham, Finance Manager & Organic Broadcaster Editor
Harriet Behar Organic Specialist
Cathy Olyphant Office Manager
Angie Sullivan, Resource & Administrative Coordinator
Faye Jones Executive Director
Audrey Arner, President Moonstone Farm, MN
Eric Hatling, Development & Communications Coordinator
2009
Linda Halley, Vice President Gardens of Eagan, MN
Sarah Stone, Marketing Coordinator & Webmaster
BOARD of Directors
Chris Blanchard Rock Spring Farm, IA
Roger Blobaum, Treasurer Darlene Coehorn Blobaum & Associates, Wash. DC Viewpoint Organic Acres, WI Atina Diffley, Secretary Paul Dietmann Organic Farming Works, MN WI Farm Center, DATCP, WI
Melinda Hemmelgarn Food Sleuth, MO
Tom Miller R & G Miller & Sons, Inc. WI Margaret Smith Ash Grove Farm, IA
PO Box 339, Spring Valley, Wis. 54767 p. (715) 778-5775 f. (715) 778-5773 www.mosesorganic.org
MOSES Annual Report 2008
As we look back on a successful year here at the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES), we also look forward to an exciting future. The coming year holds so much promise, for our organization and for all those who are working for a more sustainable food system. The 2008 Farm Bill contains provisions that will bring more farmers, beginning as well experienced, into organic and sustainable agriculture. MOSES is well-poised to meet the increased need for farmer education, resource development, and networking in the region. In April of 2009 we are moving into a new office in downtown Spring Valley, WI. The new office will not only allow us to expand existing programs and create new ones, but it will also provide a space for meeting in-person with farmers, students, community groups, and the general public. We welcome these new opportunities and look toward 2009 with optimism and enthusiasm.
INSIDE
2
about moses
3 7
our programs
financials
1
WHO WE ARE The Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES) is a non-profit 501c3 education outreach organization working to promote sustainable and organic agriculture. MOSES serves farmers striving to produce high-quality, healthful food using organic and sustainable techniques. These farmers produce more than just food—they support thriving ecosystems and vibrant rural communities. MOSES offers a variety of programs to assist farmers, agricultural educators, organizations, and others requesting information. We organize events and provide resources and referrals to help people learn more about the growing opportunities in organic agriculture. MOSES’ goal is to have more farmers using organic and sustainable farming practices.
MOSES History The Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES) is a thriving educational non-profit organization serving farmers and others throughout the Midwest from an office located in rural Spring Valley, Wisconsin. MOSES grew out of the activities of the WI OCIA certification agency Educational Fund, whose members and board recognized that there was a growing demand for educational resources about organic agriculture. Thus the idea of MOSES —an entity devoted to the educational needs surrounding organic and sustainable production—was born. Legally incorporated as a 501c3 nonprofit in 1999, early MOSES activities focused on managing the ever-growing Upper Midwest Organic Farming Conference (first held and organized by WI OCIA in 1989). The original MOSES “office” was a closet in Faye’s home and eventually moved to a trailer home on her property. Today the organization continues to coordinate not only the largest organic conference in the country but also a growing number of new projects. MOSES offers education year-round about organic farming and certification through a variety of resources, trainings, and field days. The staff, originally just Faye Jones, has now grown to seven full-time positions.
Our mission is to help agriculture make the transition to a sustainable organic system of farming that is ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially just, through information, education, research, and integrating the broader community into this effort.
Visit www.mosesorganic.org/aboutus.html to learn more
2
GROWING ORGANIC FARMERS MOSES has grown at a remarkable pace during the past 10 years. Upon reflection, at the end of a very successful year of activities in 2008, we see for the first time an annual budget above a million dollars, expansion to seven fulltime and several temporary part-time conference staff, and the ongoing development of a broad collection of projects and partnerships. MOSES continues to be well renowned as an efficient and productive organization, offering leadership, integrity, unique knowledge and resources to those both new and established in the organic community.
HELP WANTED Organic Farmers wanted to grow high quality organic crops. FREE transition resources available through the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES). Get started today with our FREE Organic Starter Packet. Visit us on the web at www.mosesorganic.org or by calling 715-772-3153 for more information and resources.
Farmers Help Wanted: Organic a Continued Focus We are especially proud of the activities offered through our “Help Wanted: Organic Farmers” program. Rolled out in 2006 as a targeted educational campaign to reach new and transitioning organic farmers, this program has expanded to include numerous successful initiatives. Our toll-free “organic hotline” was initiated in 2007 in recognition of the awareness that farmers “just need someone real to talk to” about organic production and certification questions. Organic Specialist Harriet Behar now fields over 1,000 calls a year, with questions on everything from how to fill out an initial farm plan to where to find organic seeds to how to find an organic farm to purchase. Harriet also regularly calls those who attended a MOSES
field day or event to find out how things are going and if they need any more help. Harriet notes that “these calls are usually more of a discussion than just a question and answer session, where they have a chance to think out loud and bounce ideas off someone who has experience and knowledge in an area that they wish to know more about.” Harriet continues, “I am very gratified to know that I have been helpful to these folks. When they say ‘Thank you so much’, I can say ‘You are very welcome—I am just doing my job,’ and encourage them to stay in touch.” MOSES has learned that this kind of direct, customized support is what people really need to become successful organic farmers.
Also within the Help Wanted program are many activities that bring MOSES out into the community. In 2008 MOSES made it a priority to bring a resource-filled educational booth to several traditional ag trade shows in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Long, hot, and often dust-filled days were wellrewarded with numerous engaged conversations, long lists of folks interested in receiving more information, and a car filled with emptied resource boxes to take home. We are convinced that the casual conversations initiated as a family walks by in search of free pens or the big tractor lot can be a valuable first action to get that farm on the path to organic practices.
Visit www.mosesorganic.org/productioninfo.html to learn more
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FIELD DAYS, TRAININGS AND OTHER IMPORTANT BASICS In a project called the “Organic Watershed Project,” designed to increase organic row crop and forage production in the upper Mississippi watershed, four organic field days were held to provide new and transitioning farmers a close look at successful organic grain and forage systems. Investing significant resources in publicity, including the help of a media consultant, radio spots, and direct mail postcard campaigns, these field days drew over 200 attendees, many of whom were new to our activities. Additional trainings in our “Organic Basics” program brought information about organic production and certification to an additional 175 producers in 2008. All of our trainings offer not only quality day-of educational programming, often on an organic farm or with an organic farmer panel or presenter, but also leave attendees with written resources to digest once they get home. These workshops and field days offer enough information for a farmer to get a taste of organic farming systems and decide if they want to learn more. Those with an on-farm component are also invaluable in offering tips and “organic best practices”.
Direct Links to Organic Farmers When asked what is most important in helping new organic farmers succeed, established farmers told us it was learning from others. “Find a mentor,” they said. We followed up by initiating the MOSES Organic Farmer Mentoring Program in 2008. Participating mentored farmer, Rick Dalen, comments about the relationship with his mentors John and Jane FisherMerritt: “Mentoring is really important to have available for small-scale organic farms. There aren’t schools that teach it and the learning curve is huge. If we didn’t have the Fisher-Merritts, I’m not sure we’d even be farming. The mentoring program is key to keeping sustainable agriculture viable.” The 2008 program paired 18 mentees with 11 mentors, and will be continued in 2009. In late 2007 MOSES identified a need to gain greater public recognition and visibility for new women leaders in the organic and sustainable farming community. This recognition led to the Rural Women’s Project, which has provided training and networking opportunities for ten women farmers and rural business leaders seeking to work with the media and communicate their message. Project participant, Tracey Mofle, comments on her experience: “Everyone involved with the Rural Women’s Project is motivated by a bigger umbrella picture of developing sustainable, healthy communities. It is refreshing how we are all systems thinkers, able to see how things interconnect. Thinking alike, we’re able to readily connect and support each other’s efforts.”
The Continued Strength of MOSES Resource Materials MOSES continues to expand its valuable fact sheet collection, which, offered as online, downloadable two to four page summaries of important organic production and certification issues, are designed to be linked to, copied, and shared by others involved with educating farmers. Each new fact sheet we complete, such as “Planning the Organic Orchard” or “Considering Risk Before Starting an Organic Orchard,” both new in 2008, is announced to our diverse data base of contacts through electronic and print mechanisms in order to be picked up and linked through partner websites, which vastly expands our educational outreach and impact. “The Guidebook to Organic Certification”, initially published in 2005, was updated and reprinted in a new format in 2008. This valuable resource is popular with Extension agents as a handout for farmers interested in organic who come to their offices. The “Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory”, in its 8th Edition in 2008, a resource found by many farmers’ phones, contains contact information for everything from buyers to sources to certifiers and educational resources in the organic industry. Even though organic has grown out of the “infant” stage of development, information about where to get what within the industry is still not commonplace. With an annual print run of over 8,000 and free distribution to farmers, this is a valuable resource with a growing number of entries. New and very exciting in 2008 is the Directory as a searchable online database on the MOSES website. Now those looking for current contact information for a feed mill or veterinarian can find it at http://www. mosesorganic.org/resourcedirectory.html In 2008 the MOSES Board of Directors asked staff to make a push to increase the circulation of the Organic Broadcaster newspaper by 50%. Under the editorial hand of staff member, Jody Padgham, the publication continues to generate very positive reviews and commentary. We are pleased to report that we reached our circulation expansion goal, with this farmerfocused bi-monthly now reaching over 2,000 households. The wide diversity of MOSES resources became even more accessible in 2008 through the redesign of the MOSES webpage. New staff member, Sarah Stone, designed and coordinated the transition in early fall. Hits on the page topped 4,000 per day, a strong show of support and approval for the new easy-to-access organization of resources, events listing, and links.
Visit www.mosesorganic.org/training.html to learn more
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NEW PARTNERSHIPS AND COALITIONS One of MOSES’ strengths is its ability to foster strong partnerships. This has never been more apparent as in 2008, when several new partnerships were developed. We are enthusiastic about a unique three-way partnership involving MOSES, University of Wisconsin-River Falls, and Chippewa Valley Technical College. This educational initiative focuses on bringing sustainable farming principles and practices into institutional curriculums as well as outreach into the community. The first year of this three-year partnership hosted two very successful workshops, one on sustainable farming and the other on high tunnel production. MOSES plays an important role in providing resources and offering counsel for program design to the two institutional partners.
Partnerships with national organic and sustainable farm policy organizations have been crucial during this year of politicking around the 2008 Farm Bill. MOSES was a well-regarded participant and leader in several important coalitions, including the National Organic Committee (NOC) and the Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (SAC). Significant gains were made for organic in the farm bill, and MOSES staff will continue to participate with diligence as programs are funded and oversight becomes important.
Education and Fun in La Crosse Even with the broadening and diversification of our activities, the MOSES Organic Farming Conference and accompanying Organic University continue to be the cornerstones. In February 2008, almost 2,400 people again came to La Crosse to hear inspirational keynotes by nutritionist Melinda Hemmelgarn and activist Andrew Kimbrell, learn from over 90 presenters through over 60 workshops, talk with friends old and new and enjoy great organic food. Evaluations continue to tell us that this event is the highlight of many organic farmers’ year. “Inspirational,” “practical,” “great hands-on knowledge,” “learning from someone who has been there,” “great balance of farmer and researchers,” are frequent phrases found on evaluations. Our staff works hard year-round to present a smooth, friendly, and fun event. The participation of over 100 volunteers and 65 trade show exhibitors reinforce the value that this event has to the community. From the first conference and the beginning of MOSES, for nearly two decades, thousands of people have been brought together and significant projects have been spawned. Each year dozens of groups plan annual or organizational meetings to occur in conjunction with the conference. This event has centered, inspired. and supported the Midwestern and national organic movements, and MOSES is proud to be the host.
MOSES is well positioned to move into 2009 with the continuation of all of the above programs and development of new initiatives. With a strong board of directors, a talented and experienced executive director, and seasoned staff, we look forward to continuing the achievement of our goal to have more farmers using organic and sustainable farming practices. We appreciate and acknowledge the support in time and contributions from all our partners and supporters.
Visit www.mosesorganic.org/conference to learn more
5
2008 Organic Farming Conference a MOSES volunteer checks in a registrant.
MOSES PROJECTS • Organic Conference. The 19th annual Organic Farming Conference on Feb 21-23 brought almost 2400 individuals from 37 states to La Crosse, WI.
•
Organic University. Ten day-long intensive courses were offered to 422 farmers the day before the OFC.
• Research Symposium. Through this unique grant funded offering, over 35 presentations on research relevant to organic production were given by university and independent researchers in conjunction with the MOSES OFC.
• 2008 Farmer of the Year. Gary, Nicholas and Rosie 2008 Farmer of the Year - Gary, Rosie, & Nicholas Zimmer, Otter Creek Organic Dairy.
Zimmer, of Otter Creek Organic Dairy, Avoca, WI, receive the 2008 “MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year” award.
• Help Wanted: Organic Farmers. MOSES focused sig-
nificant energy in 2008 toward helping new farmers transition to organic production through our toll-free “organic hotline,” “Help Wanted” packets, farm field days, “Organic Basics” trainings, expanded fact sheet list and staffed information booths at trade shows and numerous other events.
• Organic Farmer Mentor Program. Eighteen new farm-
ers worked with eleven experienced organic producers to learn the “tricks of the trade.”
• Rural Women’s Project. Ten women farmers and rural business leaders networked and learned how to work with media and communicate their message.
• Sustainable Ag in Western Wisconsin Partnership. MOSES Staff - Cathy, Eric, Sarah, Harriet, Jody, Faye, & Jessica (left to right).
Joining together UW River Falls, Chippewa Valley Technical College, and MOSES, this unique partnership offers support for degree programs and curriculum development, as well as community outreach, in sustainable farming systems.
• MOSES Web Redesign. News and information about
organic and sustainable farming became easier to find with the MOSES web redesign, rolled out in September. The popular Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory was not only reprinted in the 8th edition, but is now a fully searchable, on-line database accessible from the new website. A monthly e-newsletter is initiated to update on issues of interest to the organic community.
• Organic Broadcaster Newsletter. Outreach activiMOSES Organic Field Day - Field day participants enjoy a tour of Primus Farm.
ties have broadened distribution of our 20-page bi-monthly newspaper, offering farmer-based organic news, to over 2000 households in 2008.
• Networking. Executive Director Faye Jones and Organic
Specialist Harriet Behar participated in numerous regional and national meetings and events with peer organizations to discuss how to maximize programming to farmers, as well as discuss strategies for generating 2008 Farm Bill support.
• Tree Fruit Network. Quarterly newsletters, an active listserve, information packed webpage and other activities were generated for over 325 members of the Midwest Organic Tree Fruit Growers Network.
Visit www.mosesorganic.org/resources.html to learn more
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FINANCIAL REPORT 2007’08 Income Sources FY 07-08INCOME INCOME INCOME INCOME Conference Conference
419,045.03 419,045.03 Conference 419,045.03 Conference 419,045.03 OU OU 46,671.00 46,671.00 OU 46,671.00 OU 46,671.00 OB OB 36,656.86 36,656.86 OB 36,656.86 OB 36,656.86 Fundraising Fundraising 201,321.23 201,321.23 Fundraising 201,321.23 Fundraising 201,321.23 Sales Sales 63,525.33 63,525.33 Sales Sales 63,525.33 63,525.33 Help Wanted Help Wanted SupportSupport 246,919.75 246,919.75 Help Wanted SupportSupport 246,919.75 Help Wanted 246,919.75 Grants/Agreements/Projects* 136,843.21 Grants/agreements/projects* 136,843.21 Grants/agreements/projects* 136,843.21 Grants/Agreements/Projects* 136,843.21 10,232.53 misc Misc 10,232.53 misc Misc 10,232.53 10,232.53 TOTALTOTAL REVENUE REVENUE 1,161,214.94 1,161,214.94 TOTALTOTAL REVENUE 1,161,214.94 REVENUE 1,161,214.94
EXPENSES EXPENSES EXPENSES EXPENSES Conference Conference
311,666.19 311,666.19 311,666.19 311,666.19 45,568.54 45,568.54 45,568.54 45,568.54 28,139.61 28,139.61 28,139.61 28,139.61 54,989.77 54,989.77 54,989.77 54,989.77 54,288.85 54,288.85 54,288.85 54,288.85 148,811.02 148,811.02 148,811.02 148,811.02 181,121.59 181,121.59 181,121.59 181,121.59 121,524.93 121,524.93 121,524.93 121,524.93 6,394.75 6,394.75 6,394.756,394.75 952,505.25 952,505.25 952,505.25 952,505.25
Misc 0.9% Foundations 35%
Conference Conference OU OU OU OU OB OB OB OB ExpenseExpense Fundraising Fundraising Fundraising ExpenseExpense Fundraising Cost of sales Cost of Sales Cost of sales Cost of Sales Programming Help Wanted Help Wanted Programming Help Wanted Programming Help Wanted Programming Grants/projects** Grants/Projects** Grants/projects** Grants/Projects** office overhead Office Overhead office overhead Office Capital expenses CapitalOverhead Expenses Capital expenses Capital Expenses TOTALTOTAL EXPENSES EXPENSES TOTALTOTAL EXPENSES EXPENSES
Conference & Events 33.9% Gov’t Grants 17%
allocated for 08-09 for projects 08-09 projects -90,000.00 *allocated Grants, projects, agreements: incomeTOTAL -90,000.00 ($136,843.21), allocated for 08-09 projects -90,000.00 allocated for 08-09 projects -90,000.00 Tree Fruit Network ($34,979.91), Western WI Sust Ag ($8,514.07), carryover carryover 118,709.70 118,709.70 carryover 118,709.70 carryover UW Extension EAM ($13,957.94), Sow the Seeds 118,709.70 pass through
Sales 9% Indiv & Business Donors 3.9%
($25,000), Research Symposium ($50,000), Networking
MOSES Board of Directors December 2008
* Grants, projects, agreements: income- TOTAL ($136,843.21), Tree Fruit Network, ($34,97 (4391.29) * Grants, projects, agreements: incomeTOTAL($25,000), ($136,843.21), Tree Fruit Network, ($34,97 EAM ($13,957.94), Sow the Seeds pass through Research Symposium ($50,000) ** Grants, projects, agreements: expensesTOTAL ($181,121.59), EAM ($13,957.94), Sow the Seeds pass through ($25,000), Research Symposium ($50,000)
Tree Fruit Network ($31,239.33), Western WI Sust Ag ($8,514.07),
** Grants, Misc projects, agreements: TOTAL =Tree Fruit Network, ($31 Special Projectsexpenses($7,275.45) UW($181,121.59), Extension EAM The MOSES board consists of a majority of Projects ** Grants, projects, agreements: expensesTOTAL ($181,121.59), =Tree Fruit Network, ($31 ($7,275.45) UW Extension EAM ($11,616.43), Sow the Seeds ($11,616.43), Sow the Seeds pass through ($25,000), pass through ($25,000 Projects ($7,275.45) UW Extension EAM ($11,616.43), Sow the Seeds pass through ($25,00 certified organic farmers and meets at least Networking (42836.96) Research Symposium ($51,660.15), RMA ($2,979.20), (42836.96) four times a year to provide governance to Networking
the organization.
Audrey Arner, President Moonstone Farm, MN Chris Blanchard Rock Spring Farm, IA Roger Blobaum, Secretary Washington DC Darlene Coehoorn Viewpoint Organic Acres, WI Paul Dietmann, Treasurer WI Farm Center- DATCP, WI
Networking (42836.96)
Atina Diffley Organic Farming Works, MN Joyce Ford Organic Independents, MN Linda Halley, Vice President Gardens of Eagan, MN
Tom Miller R & G Miller & Son, Inc. WI Margaret Smith Ash Grove Farm, IA
Visit www.mosesorganic.org/board.html to learn more
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MOSES STAFF Faye Jones, Executive Director of Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES), was the first employee of the organization in 1999. She has worked in the organic world for 28 years as a market gardener, cut flower grower, event organizer and community volunteer.
MOSES PO Box 339 Spring Valley, WI p. 715-772-3153 f. 715-772-3162 www.mosesorganic.org info@mosesorganic.org printed on recycled paper
Jody Padgham started working at MOSES in 2001. She is the organization’s Financial Manager and the editor of the Organic Broadcaster newspaper. Jody creates the majority of the organization’s written materials, does grant writing and has edited several books. She raises poultry and sheep organically on a 60-acre farm in west-central Wisconsin. Cathy Olyphant joined MOSES in 2003. She handles all the administrative details of the Organic Broadcaster plus, during conference season, is the registration and sponsor coordinator. An avid birdwatcher, Cathy lives in a wooded area of Spring Valley with her husband. Harriet Behar comes to MOSES after 19 years as an organic inspector and educator. She has 35 years experience raising organic specialty crops. Harriet is the Organic Specialist and coordinates the many trainings and events we attend. She and her husband Aaron Brin have an organic farm near Gays Mills, WI. Eric Hatling, Development & Communications Coordinator, joined the MOSES staff in the fall of 2007. He previously spent 17 years in various fundraising and development positions at the University of Minnesota Foundation. Eric lives on a farmette in Spring Valley and loves being able to bike to work. Jessica Tupa was hired in November 2007 as the Events Coordinator and Exhibit Coordinator. She recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls with a degree in Agriculture Business with a minor in Animal Science and is now pursuing her MBA. Jessica spends most of her time playing with her two dogs and tending to her vegetable garden in the summer. Sarah Stone joined MOSES in May of 2008. Previously, she worked for a non-profit food justice organization in NYC, managed a CSA program in Southern Minnesota, and co-owned a tiny organic grocery store in Chicago. Having grown up in Albert Lea, Minnesota, she is eager to reconnect with her mid-western roots.
Visit www.mosesorganic.org to learn more
8
Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service
2007 Annual Report
Organic Basics Trainings
We are delighted to report that 2007 was a record-breaking year for MOSES, from the number of farmers reached through our outreach, education and training sessions, to another year of record attendance at the Organic Farming Conference. More and more farmers are being challenged to meet the rapidly growing consumer demand for organic food. MOSES is there to help educate new and conventional farmers on the benefits of organic and sustainable farming and help them make the transition. As the demand grows, so do the services that MOSES offers. I would like to highlight two new programs MOSES is adding in 2008. The Organic Farmer Pilot Mentoring Program is matching experienced organic farmers with new and transitioning organic farmers. And the Organic Watershed Project is offering workshops in organic and sustainable row crop, forage and small grain production in the Mississippi River Watershed. Both programs are perfect complements to MOSES’ hugely successful Help Wanted: Organic Farmers program. For other new projects, see page 3.
Minars Organic Farmer of the Year
MOSES is able to do these projects and so much more through the support it receives from so many generous individuals, foundations and companies. Organic and sustainable farming is having a profound and positive impact on the quality of the food we eat, the local availability of that food, and the economic health of our rural communities. We at MOSES are honored to have a role in making that happen. Faye Jones, MOSES Executive Director
Organic Farming Conference
Who We Are The Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service, (MOSES) is a non-profit 501(c)3 educationoutreach organization working to promote sustainable and organic agriculture. MOSES serves farmers striving to produce high-quality, healthful food using organic and sustainable techniques. These farmers produce more than just food: they support thriving ecosystems and vibrant rural communities. MOSES offers a variety of programs to assist farmers, agricultural educators, organizations and others requesting information. We organize events and provide resources and referrals to help people learn more about the growing opportunities in organic agriculture. PO Box 339 • Spring Valley, WI • 54767 715/772-3153 • fax 715/772-3162 info@mosesorganic.org • www.mosesorganic.org
2007 Project Highlights MOSES Board of Directors December 2007 The MOSES board consists of a majority of certified organic farmers and meets at least four times a year to provide governance to the organization. Barth Anderson Wedge Co-op, MN Audrey Arner Moonstone Farm, MN Chris Blanchard Rock Spring Farm, IA Roger Blobaum Blobaum & Assoc., WA DC Darlene Coehoorn Viewpoint Organic Acres, WI Atina Diffley Gardens of Eagan, MN Paul Dietmann WI DATCP, WI
The MOSES Organic Farming Conference drew a record 2,250 attendees to La Crosse, WI in February for provocative education, engaging conversation, tantalizing food and stimulating inspiration, even with a 20 inch snowfall! The Organic University® provided in-depth education to 405 participants through a set of nine day-long classes, ranging in topics from “Organic Hog Production” to “Transitioning to Organic Row Crops,” “Organic Dairy Production” and “Season Extension”. The valuable Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory was updated in the 7th edition and 8000 copies were distributed to farmers and others in the Midwest. The MOSES website continues to be an excellent, up-to-date resource for farmers looking for information about organic farming transitioning and certification. In 2007, visits to the MOSES website averaged 540 a day. At the site, farmers and ag professionals can download information packets and find information about workshops and training sessions in their respective areas. The Organic Broadcaster newspaper delivered important production, marketing and organic industry news to over 2,000 homes in six bimonthly issues. MOSES and several project partners completed the stunning book Renewing the Countryside - Wisconsin. Florence and Dave Minar of Cedar Grove Farm in New Prague, MN are honored with the 2007 MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year award.
Joyce Ford (President) Organic Independents, MN
Hundreds of information requests are fielded, resource packets sent and educational talks given through the Help Wanted: Organic Farmers campaign. Several “Organic Basics” workshops are presented to farmers, educating on-the-road in local communities on organic production and certification issues.
Linda Halley Fairview Gardens/ Gardens of Eagan, MN
The MOSES Bookstore moves online, offering an expanded list of books through mail order, online and event sales, including an expanded booth at the conference.
Margaret Smith Ash Grove Farm, IA
The Midwest Organic Tree Fruit Producers Network has grown to over 300 participants and continues to offer unique education to this underserved community. 2
MOSES Income and Expense FY ending 8/31/07
Organic Research Symposium
Revenue Sources (Income) Conference Organic University Broadcaster Newspaper Fundraising/Gifting Letter Sales Grants/Agreements/Projects* Misc TOTAL REVENUE Use of Funds (Expense) Conference Organic University Broadcaster Newspaper Fundraising Expense Cost of Sales Grants/Projects* Office Overhead Capital Expenses TOTAL EXPENSES Carryover**
New Initiatives in 2007
$349,439 $ 60,458 $ 27,600 $109,721 $ 36,966 $251,582 $ 8,122 $843,888
MOSES and project partner, the Organic Farming Research Foundation, are planning a 2.5 day symposium in conjunction with the 2008 Organic Farming Conference. The Symposium will bring current results, data and knowledge gained by over 30 researchers direct to farmers through presentations, small group discussions and printed abstracts. Funded by the USDA-CSREES- Integrated Organic Program.
Organic Watershed Project $253,924 $ 53,903 $ 22,575 $ 52,678 $ 30,699 $146,394 $145,727 $ 35,729 $741,629 $102,259
This financial report reflects the 06-07 fiscal year, which ended on August 31, 2007. The rest of this 2007 annual report is for the 2007 calendar year. *Grant funding supports many projects, including scholarships for the conference, Tree Fruit Network, Organic Basics Trainings, Resource Directory, Fact Sheets and Renewing the Countryside book project. ** A majority of the carryover funds are restricted funds for use in upcoming years. MOSES is financially supported in diverse ways. Sources include: individual donors 9%, foundations 15%, Federal grants 20%, sales 9%, conferences and events 45%, and miscellaneous income 2%. MOSES is grateful for the varied support we receive each year. Contributions enable us to provide high-quality organic education services to farmers and others. To donate to MOSES contact the office or visit the website.
Designed to increase organic row crop forage production for livestock feed in Upper Mississippi River watershed, this month project was started late in 2007. project includes workshops, field days follow-up in WI, MN and IA.
and the 18The and
Organic Farmer Pilot Mentoring Program This one-year pilot project brings together 11 experienced organic farmers willing to act as mentors to 18 new or transitioning farmers. The project supports farm visits, regular communications and attendance to the Organic University.
Sustainable Ag in Western WI Partnership In a unique partnership between MOSES, University of Wisconsin-River Falls and the Chippewa Valley Technical College, this broad project offers support for degree programs and curriculum development in sustainable farming systems. The project also includes a community education element.
Farm Bill and Government Policy MOSES staff work with several partners, including the Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (SAC) to move forward a sustainable agriculture agenda and do education on the Farm Bill. Work has included facilitating educational meetings with farmers, offering electronic news briefs and the development of a political action section on the MOSES webpage. 3
Comments from MOSES Program Participants I love this conference, it is getting me fired up to begin my process. I thought this class was great. (OU participant)
Thank you again for coming to our county to present on organic vegetable production. Your presentations are always very engaging. The audiences with organic interests sure are fun groups. (Organic Basics partner) The combination of practical knowledge from farmers and the theory from researchers was good. This was a really great workshop. (OU participant)
Thanks for your advice and encouragement. The process of application was enlightening and extremely beneficial. I learned a lot and also felt a sincere appreciation for the organic seal. (Organic Basics attendee)
MOSES Mission Statement:
“To help agriculture make the transition to a sustainable organic system of farming that is ecologically sound, economically viable and socially just, through information, education, research, and integrating the broader community into this effort.”
Meet the MOSES Staff Faye Jones is the Executive Director of MOSES and was the first employee of the organization. She has worked in the organic world for 27 years as a market gardener, cut flower grower, event organizer and community volunteer.
Harriet
Faye
Jody
Eric
Krista
Cathy
Jessica
Jody Padgham Education Director and Financial Manager, started at MOSES in 2002. Jody oversees educational programs, including the Organic University, is the editor of the Organic Broadcaster Newspaper, and also acts as MOSES Finance Manager and develops a significant portion of MOSES’ written educational materials. Cathy Olyphant is the MOSES Office Manager and has been with the organization since 2003. Cathy manages our database and keeps office operations functioning smoothly. Cathy is also the conference registration and sponsor coordinator and manages the Organic Broadcaster mailing list and advertisers. Harriet Behar joined the MOSES staff in July 2006 as the Outreach Coordinator. She is responsible for many of the activities in the MOSES Help Wanted: Organic Farmers campaign. Harriet has continued as the popular trainer for our series of farmer and ag professional trainings, and is the calm voice at the end of the “Organic Farmer Hotline.” Jessica Tupa joined the MOSES team in fall 2007 as Administrative Assistant. Jessica manages the MOSES bookstore, Resource Directory and the over 130 exhibitors at the conference. Eric Hatling, also joining the staff in fall 2007, is the Development and Communications Coordinator. Eric coordinates with media and is responsible for grantwriting and reporting. Krista Cleary helps out in the MOSES office throughout the year, and in conference season is the Volunteer and Scholarship Coordinator. 4
Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service MOSES Board of Directors December 2006 The MOSES board consists of a majority of certified organic farmers and meets at least four times a year to provide governance to the organization.
Barth Anderson Wedge Co-op Minneapolis, MN
Audrey Arner Vice-President
2006 Annual Report MOSES has had another very successful year in 2006. The number of certified organic farmers, acreage of farmland in organic production and consumer demand for organic food continue to increase. This trend means more growth and opportunity for MOSES programs! The diversity and depth of our offerings are expanding, and we have hired two new staff members. Our annual report highlights our efforts and dedication to educating farmers and the community-at-large about organic and sustainable farming. We are honored to be a part of this growing community. Faye Jones, MOSES Executive Director
Moonstone Farm Montevideo, MN
Chris Blanchard Secretary Rock Spring Farm Highlandville, IA
Roger Blobaum Blobaum & Associates Washington, DC
Darlene Coehoorn Viewpoint Organic Acres Rosendale, WI
Paul Dietmann Treasurer Sauk County Ag Extension
WHO WE ARE The Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service, (MOSES) is a non-profit 501(c)3 education-outreach organization working to promote sustainable and organic agriculture. MOSES serves farmers striving to produce high-quality, healthful food using organic & sustainable techniques. These farmers produce more than just food: they support thriving ecosystems and vibrant rural communities. MOSES offers a variety of programs to assist farmers, agricultural educators, organizations and individuals requesting information. We organize events and provide resources and referrals to help people learn more about the growing opportunities in organic agriculture.
Prairie du Sac, WI
Joyce Ford President Organic Independents Winona, MN
MOSES Mission Statement: “To help agriculture make the transition to a sustainable organic system of farming that is ecologically sound, economically viable and socially just, through information, education, research, and integrating the broader community into this effort.”
Linda Halley Fairview Gardens Goleta, CA
Margaret Smith Ash Grove Farm Hampton, IA 111111
PO Box 339 • Spring Valley, WI • 54767 715/772-3153 • fax 715/772-3162 info@mosesorganic.org • www.mosesorganic.org
MOSES 2006 Annual Report
MOSES Activities and Programs: HELP WANTED: ORGANIC FARMERS
Initiated in 2005, the “Help Wanted: Organic Farmers” campaign continues to support new and transitioning organic farmers throughout the Midwest. The campaign was stepped up in 2006 with the addition of staff member Harriet Behar as MOSES Outreach Director and the institution of a toll-free “Farmer Hotline” (888-551-GROW/4769). Harriet conducts regional trainings on organic production and certification, and is also available to answer specific questions from farmers calling the hotline. We’ve had hundreds of requests for information on transitioning to organic production since the inception of the Help Wanted Campaign.
Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory The seventh edition of the Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory was published in early 2006. Indispensable to organic farmers, agricultural educators and anyone interested in organics, this reference handbook lists resource groups, certification agencies, consultants, government agencies, suppliers, farmer coops, processors and publications in the Upper Midwest. Offered as a 70-page booklet from MOSES, the directory is also available on our website with live links or as a printable PDF. The web version of the directory is continually updated throughout the year.
Farmer of the Year Award The 4th annual MOSES Organic Farmer of the Year Award: An Organic Farmer Practicing Outstanding Land Stewardship was presented to Stan Schutte, Triple “S” Farms, at the 2006 UMOF Conference. Stan owns and manages a 200-acre diversified farm in central Illinois. Stan produces numerous vegetable crops, free-range poultry and beef, dent corn, sweetcorn, popcorn, soybeans and hard red wheat. Stan is a master of direct marketing and has been an inspiration and leader for both his local OCIA Certification chapter and the Farm Beginnings program in central Illinois.
MOSES website: www.mosesorganic.org We offer free downloadable educational materials, an updated events calendar, and links and information about our diverse opportunities and offerings on the MOSES website. Farmers and others can access organic fact sheets, our popular Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory, the growing Upper Midwest Organic Tree Fruit Growers Network, and information about upcoming events and trainings. Instituted in late 2006 is a “Farm Bill ‘07” page that offers up-to-date information and opportunities for action to support organics in the upcoming Farm Bill.
MOSES Book Store MOSES offers over 20 books on organic farming available for purchase at events, through the mail or on the web. We also have “No Spray” farm signs. A printable order form for books and signs is available on the MOSES website or by calling the MOSES office.
Organic Dairy Farming Book Published in February 2006, the new book Organic Dairy Farming is a one-of-a-kind resource. A compilation of writings from 20 authors with expertise in their fields, the book was edited by Jody Padgham, MOSES Education Director, and published by Community Conservation, Inc. in partnership with MOSES. Designed to act as a resource for farmers new or transitioning to organic dairy production, the book has received favorable reviews and continues to sell well throughout the U.S.
Upper Midwest Organic Farming Conference The Upper Midwest Organic Farming Conference offers a stellar education and networking experience to evergrowing numbers of organic farmers and others. The largest organic conference in the U.S., in 2006 we hosted over 2200 people in La Crosse, Wisconsin, with 60 workshops, over 130 exhibitors and great organic food. Our list of Conference sponsors continues to grow, with over 40 supporting us in 2006.
Organic University The Organic University, held annually the day prior to the conference, is in its fifth year and continues to provide well-received, comprehensive programming. Ten day-long sessions were attended by nearly 400 people in 2006. Organic University participants express great appreciation of the intensive sessions, small class size, presenter knowledge, and quality of discussion and training. 2
MOSES 2006 Annual Report
Organic Broadcaster Newspaper The Organic Broadcaster, a bi-monthly newspaper, provides quality, in-depth information to hundreds of farmers in the Upper Midwest. Published by MOSES, the Broadcaster features regular columns, interviews, updates and farm-based stories specific to organic farming systems. A regional calendar and a large organic classified ad section are also featured. Subscriptions are $20 for 6 issues annually.
Tree Fruit Network MOSES, with support of USDA Risk Management Agency, continued the Upper Midwest Organic Tree Fruit Growers Network. The Network brings together people interested in organic tree fruit through a quarterly newsletter, field days, an electronic list-serve and the MOSES website.
USDA-RMA Funding In 2006 MOSES again entered into a partnership agreement with USDA Risk Management Agency to support educational programming around organic and diversified agriculture. The agreement supports the Upper Midwest Organic Farming Conference and Organic University, including 70 scholarships, new and updated Organic Fact Sheets (free on the web) and the Upper Midwest Organic Resource Directory.
Organic Basics Trainings A series of farmer trainings, titled “Organic Basics,” was again funded by the University of Wisconsin Extension - Emerging Ag Markets Team. These intensive trainings to farmers around Wisconsin highlight organic practices and certification and often include a tour of a local organic farm. Over 200 farmers were offered quality education in their own communities through the six programs held in 2006.
Meet the MOSES Staff: Faye Jones has been the Executive Director of MOSES since 1999. Faye has gracefully expanded beyond her initial role of conference coordinator by taking responsibility for more executive tasks such as fundraising, personnel management, and political networking for this growing organization. Jody Padgham has been the Education Director at MOSES since 2002. In this role she oversees educational programs, including the Organic University. She is the editor of the Organic Broadcaster Newspaper, and also acts as MOSES Bookkeeper and primary grant writer and reporter. Cathy Olyphant is the MOSES Office Manager and has been with the organization since 2003. Cathy manages our database and keeps office operations functioning smoothly. Cathy is also the conference registration coordinator and manages the Organic Broadcaster mailing list and advertisers. Harriet Behar joined the MOSES staff in July 2006 as the Outreach Coordinator. She is responsible for many of the activities in the MOSES Help Wanted: Organic Farmers campaign. Harriet has continued as the popular trainer for our series of farmer and agricultural professional trainings, and is the calm voice at the end of the new “Organic Farmer Hotline.” Rekha Banerjee is MOSES Resource and Exhibit Hall Coordinator, joining the team in May 2006. In this position she manages the MOSES bookstore, Resource Directory and the over 130 exhibitors at the conference. Diana Witcher has developed real skill as the food coordinator for the conference, bringing in thousands of dollars of organic food donations and planning the tasty menu for 2500 discriminating eaters each year. She is also the MOSES Webmaster and does much of the organization’s layout and design work. Krista Cleary helps out in the MOSES office throughout the year, and during the conference season is the UMOFC Volunteer and Scholarship coordinator. Doug Nopar, MOSES Development and Communications Coordinator Deirdre Birmingham, Coordinator of the Upper Midwest Organic Tree Fruit Growers Network Chris Blanchard, UMOFC Presentations Coordinator
3
MOSES Income and Expense
MOSES is financially supported in
FY ending 8/31/06
diverse ways. Sources include: individual donors 6%, foundations 16%, Federal grants 14%, sales 6%, conferences and events 54%, and miscellaneous income 4%.
Revenue Sources (Income) 2006 Conference $282,875.52 Organic University 42,901.00 Broadcaster Newspaper 31,916.21 Fundraising/Gifting Letter 36,866.00 Sales 41,605.83 Grants/Agreements/Projects* 243,634.33 Misc 1,702.66 2007 Conference 33,178.34 TOTAL REVENUE
MOSES is grateful for the varied support we receive each year. Contributions enable us to provide high-quality organic education services to farmers and others. To donate to MOSES contact the office or visit the website.
$721,503.89
Comments from MOSES Program Participants:
Use of Funds (Expense) 2006 Conference Organic University Broadcaster Newspaper Cost of Sales Grants/Projects Office Overhead & Admin Outreach (Help Wanted) 2007 Conference Capital Improvements TOTAL EXPENSES
$226,597.02 49,429.36 23,165.16 34,407.49 65,606.57 129,830.20 24,932.74 7,716.28 10,664.90 $572,349.72
Designated grant fund carryover Designated funds Carryover
60,000.00 50,000.00 38,132.00
This financial report reflects the 05-06 fiscal year, which ended on August 31, 2006. The rest of this 2006 annual report is for the 2006 calendar year.
• I was amazed at how organized and generous you all were! I got not only knowledge from the workshop, but also inspiration about building a healthier food system! Thank you for being there for us. • The incredible depth, yet accessible knowledge of the presenter was fantastic, but even more, his experience made this course worthwhile. • The session organization, visual aids and handouts were excellent. • I enjoyed the camaraderie of a group of people with similar ideas.
*Grant funding supports many projects, including scholarships for the conference, Tree Fruit Network, Organic Basics Trainings, Help Wanted Outreach, and Fact Sheets.
Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service PO Box 339 • Spring Valley, WI • 54767 715/772-3153 • fax 715/772-3162 info@mosesorganic.org • www.mosesorganic.org 4