Farm News for Kids

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P u bli c a tio n of So n o m a C o u nty Fa r m Bu re au • so n o m a f b.o rg

SUPPORTING A LIFETIME OF DIGGING IN THE DIRT

Our AgYouth program supports young, beginning and small farmers by providing seed money and education to students interested in a life in agriculture.

Give us a call and see what we can do for you.

SANTA ROSA  PETALUMA Call 800.800.4865 or visit AgLoan.com A part of the Farm Credit system. Equal Opportunity Lender.

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2/22/2013 4:15:37 PM

LOCA L FARM ER

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

m o a n County Farmer o S r u o Y w o Kn I n t r o d u ci n g t h e p e o p

3

le behind the food

AL LOC ER M R A F

RICK, J ENNIFE R

WYATT ERRY, REX, K

IA & OLIV

MS

WILLIA

ol ebastop lamb ches, S s n e a c R u s d William ms Family pro m their a o li fr il e W s e e Th che They ep milk sheep. and she 600 head of n a more th AL w hay.

LOC ER also gro M FAR

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MANY PEOPLE DOE S HOW ONE FARMER FEED?

AL LOC ER M R FA

America’s farmers are the world’s most productive. Today, each U.S. farmer produces food and fiber to feed 155 people each year in the U.S. and abroad. Use the chart below to create a graph illustrating changes over the past 70 years.

Sonoma County farmers are as diverse as

the food and fiber they produce!

Across the state, men and women have dedicated their lives to growing and raising safe, nutritious and beautiful agricultural bounty.

& CIND Y

ANE Crane Ra nch, San ta The Cra Rosa ne famil y g Crane m elon and rows the famed ranch, w oat hay hich has on their been in for more the famil than 160 y years.

AND

CCLELL JANA M

etaluma d Dair y, P pean style McClellan ro ilk and Eu Organic m r from 900 cows. utte organic b

JANET AND TITO SASAKI

Sasaki Vineyards, Sonoma Wine grapes, pears and lemons from their 50 acre ranch in the Sonoma Valley

People Fed 160 150 140 130 120 110 100 90

FARMER FUN FACTS

Answers: 1. 97 2. 349

3. 400

4. 57

5. 75,000

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

30 20

2010

Year

20 0 0

10

1990

5. The average age of the American farmer is _____ years old.

40

1980

4. California farmers grow more than ____ different crops and livestock commodities.

50

1970

3. The average size of a California farm is _____ acres.

meaning Farmers today wear many “hats”— must they take on many responsibilities and ers and be highly-skilled to be successful. Farm untant, ranchers may also be the farm acco ple multi and n perso sales chemist, manager, rg/wgo/ other roles! Visit kids.learnaboutag.o types of jobs to share your ideas about the . “hats” farmers wear

60

1960

2. Families own more than ____% of all California farmland.

The rest is owned by non-family corporations.

S FAR MER S WEA R MA NY HAT

1950

1. There are more than _________ farms and ranches in California.

70

1940

Match the correct answer to each question.

80

Standards: Mathematics- Grade 4: Statistics, Data Analysis, and Probability (SDP) 1.3; Mathematical Reasoning (MR) 2.3; Grade 5: SDAP 1.2; MR 2.3; Grade 6: SDAP 2.1, 2.2

Sources: USDA “Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food” www.usda.gov/knowyourfarmer, California Bountiful Magazine www.californiabountiful.com.

California Department of Food and Agriculture www.cdfa.ca.gov, National Agricultural Statistics Service www.nass.usda.gov

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y r t l u Power! o P

P u bli c a tio n of So n o m a C o u nty Fa r m Bu re au • so n o m a f b.o rg

Figure This!

Eggs are often sold by the dozen. If you worked at a restaurant and on average sold 350

HIGHLIGHT

ARNIE

RIEBLI

Arnie R iebli is th e mana Sunrise ging pa Farms, a rtner of n egg farm Petalum based in a. Sunri se Farm than 1 m s produ illion eg ces more gs each ranches day from in Sono its poult ma Cou ry nty.

two-egg breakfasts each day, how many dozen eggs would you need to have on hand each day? learn how to solve at kids.learnaboutag.org/wgo4/eggproblem Standards Grade 4 Math: Mathematical Reasoning 1.0, 1.1, 1.2 Grade 5 Math: Mathematical Reasoning 1.0, 1.1, 1.2 Grade 6 Math: Mathematical Reasoning 1.0, 1.1, 1.3 Grade 7 Math: Mathematical Reasoning 1.0, 1.1, 1.3

What’s Inside an Egg?

Eggs are a great source of protein and contain 14 minerals and 11 vitamins.

But when you eat an egg, have you ever looked at it closely? Like all living things, eggs consist of functioning parts that protect the egg and provide nutritional benefits for us! Let’s take a look…

Use the descriptions of each functioning part to label the egg.

Shell Chalazae Outer covering of egg composed mostly These whitish strings hold the yolk in place; of calcium carbonate the fresher the egg, the more noticeable Shell Membranes Two paper-like membranes that keep in moisture and protect the egg

Standards: Science- Grade 3: 3a; Grade 6: 5c; Grade 8: 3b

Albumen Also known as the egg-white; this clear-like substance is a major source of riboflavin and protein

Yolk Yellow part of the egg, which is a major Did you know that an egg can source of vitamins, minerals and fat bounce?

Air Cell Usually forms on the large end of egg between the two shell membranes; the older the egg, the larger the air cell

WAIT A MINUTE…don’t use a raw or cooked egg! Instead make your bouncing egg by following the procedure at kids. learnaboutag.org/wgo4/bouncingegg

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Like Us!

Sales: 707-433-3318 Parts: 707-433-6598 Service: 707-433-6596

453 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg

cy Free, Floral-ly n a

F

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

FLOWERS FOR EVERY OCCASION

Visit www.ccfc.org to research different types of flowers and refer to the flower guide book.

Select at least three different types of flowers to give to someone.

Use the color wheel to select a color scheme that is attractive and pleasing to the eye. Draw or paint your arrangement.

Greenhouses, cut flowers, bedding plants, house plants, and foliage are all part of an agriculture industry in California called floriculture. More than 250 cut flower growers from San Diego to the Oregon border make California the top flower-producing state in the country! Careers in the floral industry include farming and growing, transporting, designing, and landscaping.

Egyptian Period (2800 – 28 B.C.) – In ancient Egypt, cut flowers were used for symbolic purposes. Egyptian floral designs were simple, orderly, and featured alternating patterns.

Greek and Roman Periods (600 B.C. – 325 A.D.) – Ancient Greeks and Romans used flowers and herbs for decoration, beautification, and to represent victory. Floral designs were garlands, wreaths, and flowers thrown on the ground.

HIGHLIGHT

5

SOME FLOWER VARIETIES

grow better in open fields. These varieties, such as sunflowers, ranunculus, begonias, carnations and chrysanthemums, are grown in fields and prefer direct sunlight and low humidity. Hydrangeas are grown in shade houses which restrict light, allowing the plant to grow slowly, producing a more impressive bloom.

Y de las f lores, ¿qué?

Los invernaderos, las flores cortadas, las plantas de arriate, las plantas para interiores y el follaje forman parte de un sector agrícola en California conocido como floricultura.

Las carreras en la industria floral incluyen cultivo y crecimiento, transporte, diseño y paisajismo.

C H R IS A N D N IC K N EVE NEVE BRO S.

Chris and Nick Neve generation fl are fourth ower growe rs. They prod roses and 2 uce 0 other flow er varieties ranches tha on t spread ove r 200 acre Petaluma. s in

Periodo egipcio (2800 – 28 a. de C.) – En el antiguo Egipto, las flores cortadas se usaban con propósitos simbólicos. Los diseños florales egipcios eran sencillos, ordenados y presentaban patrones alternos.

Periodos griegos y romanos (600 a. de C. – 325 d. de C.) – En la antigüedad, los griegos y los romanos usaban flores y hierbas para decorar, embellecer y para representar victorias. Los diseños florales incluían guirnaldas y coronas.

Renaissance Period (1400 – 1600 A.D.) – Flower symbolism was important during this period. Flower arranging blossomed adding ribbons, fruit, and vegetables to the massive symmetrical arrangements.

Renacimiento (1400 – 1600 d. de C.) – El simbolismo de las flores fue importante durante este periodo. Los arreglos florales se popularizaron, y se añadían cintas, frutas y verduras a los arreglos simétricos enormes.

Victorian Period (1837 – 1901 A.D.) – The first rules for arranging flowers were made during this era. Designs were made using ornate containers, overflowing with many different types of flowers using cool colors and an abundance of white.

Periodo victoriano (1837 – 1901 d. de C.) – Las primeras reglas para arreglar flores se establecieron durante esta época. Los diseños se hacían usando recipientes vistosos, rebosantes de muchas flores de distintos tipos.

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Pressed Flowers

Pressed flowers can be used to decorate note cards, bookmarks, candles, and more. They can even be framed as natural art.

1. Pick your flowers when they still look fresh. Make sure they are free from moisture or dew.

2. Place flowers between two sheets of paper. Place the paper and flowers inside a heavy book.

3. Leave at least 25 pages between each pressing. Weigh the book down and wait 2-3 weeks.

Standards: Visual Arts – Grade 3: Artistic Expression 1.3, 1.5; Grade 7: Artistic Expression 2.0 Sources: USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service www.nass.usda.gov, California Cut Flower Commission www.ccfc.org

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Cattle Connections

P u bli c a tio n of So n o m a C o u nty Fa r m Bu re au • so n o m a f b.o rg

Rib Steak, Small End, Ribeye Steak

Americans’ favorite beef cuts are leaner than ever before. In fact, 29 cuts of beef meet government guidelines for lean, which means not only does beef taste great, but it’s good for you too!

Top Loin Steak, Porterhouse Steak, T-Bone Steak, Tenderloin Steak

Top Sirloin Steak, Sirloin Steaks, Tenderloin Steak, Beef Tri-Tip Steak

Round Steak, Top Round Steak, Cubed Steak, Eye Round Steak, Round Tip Steak

Then - 1950s Pot Roast, Short Ribs, Top Blade Steak, Mock Tender, Ground

Now

Shank

Flank Steak Skirt Steak

HIGHLIGHT

Ships brought cattle hides to New England for use in shoe factories.

JOE POZZI Joe Pozzi runs sheep and cattle on coastal pastureland sweeping across Sonoma and Marin counties. He produces premium lamb, high-grade wool and beef.

In 1773, Juan Bautista de Anza brought 200 head of cattle to California to supply the early California missions. The hide and tallow trade sustained the California economy while it was still under Mexican rule and hides were used as currency to buy supplies from Boston trading ships.

Ships brought cattle tallow to Chile where it was used to make candles and soap.

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Baa-Baa Black Sheep....

DID you Know?

EWE is the term for a female sheep.

BUCK is the term for a male sheep.

A LAMB is a sheep under one year old.

707-762-4505 | 200 1st St. Petaluma, CA 94952 Mon -Sat: 8:00–5:30 | Sun: 10:00-2:00 www.rivertownfeed.com

Come into RiverTown where we DON’T JUST have everything you need for your chicken, horse, cow, llama, pig, or goat!

We also carry a wide selection of food, treats, and bedding choices for your dog, cat, hamster, bird, rabbit, fish, turtle, or lizard!

OUR KNOWLEDAGEABLE STAFF can answer almost any question about animal care, and we carry a wide selection of books from basic farmyard animals, to just chickens, or your family dog! And don’t be shy about stopping in to see our feathered friends, bunnies, turtles, and fish!

Dog, Cat, and Small Animal Brands We Carry:

Avoderm, BFF’s, Blue Buffalo, California Natural, Canidae, Eukanuba, Evengers, Evo, Fancy Feast, Felidae, Friskies, Fromm, Fussie Cat, Halo, Health Wise, Holistic Select, Iams, Innova, Kaytee, Merrick, Natural Balance, Natural Plant Organics, Newman’s Own, Nutri Source, Nutro, Organix, Oxbow, Pedigree, Pinnacle, Primal, Science Diet, Solid Gold, Spring Nautral’s, Stella & Chewy, Tiki Cat, Wellness, Wysong, and So Many MORE!!!!

Your WARM SWEATER or coat may come from SHEEP WOOL. Wool is the hair of sheep. Like human hair, it is made of a protein called keratin. Sheep are sheared once a year. The shearers are skilled and know how to hold the wooly ruminants so the skin is tight and the fleece cut long. The longer the wool fibers, the more the rancher gets for the fleece. Most shearers wear special burlap moccasins that are specially designed to prevent the crew from slipping on floors slick with the lanolin which is the natural oil in the wool.

Next time you wear a wool sweater or use lotion, think of the sheep who provided you with these items.

Everyone knows the song “MARY HAD A

LITTLE LAMB.” Create your

own sheep song or poem using the information on this page.

Standards: ELA- Grade 5: Reading 3.1; Grade 8: Reading 3.1

Garbage to Garden Treasure

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

a Cl ose r Loo k Ta ki n g at Co m post

Beneficial Decomposers Microorganisms: Microscopic organisms that can’t be seen with the naked eye. They do the bulk of the early work in the compost pile.

Bacteria: Single-celled organisms that use nitrogen and carbon (among other nutrients) to grow and reproduce. Bacteria is so abundant, there could be billions in a single handful of soil.

7

HIGHLIGHT

Composting is the purposeful decaying of organic matter, such as yard and food waste. The decomposition of these materials is performed by living organisms.

Compost provides many benefits when added to soil, it increases nutrient levels, holds water and improves plant growth.

WILL BAK X

Will Bakx is the co-o wner and manager of gene Sonoma Co mpost in Peta ral Sonoma Co luma. mpost turns yard trimm kitchen wast ings, e and other materials in compost for to rich farms and o rchards.

s i n the Co m post Pi le? e o G t a h W

Fungi: Single or multicellular

organisms that break down the cellulose and lignin in a compost pile. Fungi tend to be more present during the final stages of decomposition.

A healthy compost recipe includes layers of greens and browns. After layering, add water until it is moist, but not saturated.

Make sure that the bacteria in your compost gets sufficient air by turning the pile often and well. The more often the pile is rotated, the quicker it will decompose. For best results, create a compost pile in a dry, covered area.

Identify which items from the list on the right would be added to the compost pile. Sort them by greens, browns or garbage (not suitable for composting). Draw an arrow to the correct layer for each item.

Macroorganisms: Visible

decomposers that prefer lower temperatures. They feed on the piles’ earlier inhabitants—bacteria.

Coffee filter Plastic bag Straw Meat Oil Sawdust Dried leaves Tea bags Fresh grass clippings Diseased plant material Vegetable peels Paper plate Shoe laces Cheese Ashes

Springtails: White, blue or black

organisms that feast on fungi, mold and decomposing plant material. Approximately 1/16 - 1/4 inch long, springtails can jump using their spring-like tail.

Ants: Insects that make compost

richer in phosphorus and potassium by moving minerals from one place to another. Ants feed on fungi, seeds, sweets, scraps, other insects, and sometimes other ants.

Compost

Garbage

Standards: Science- Grade 3: 3c; Grade 4: 2b, 2c, 3d; Grade 6: 5a, 5b, 5c, 5e; Grade 8: 6a, 6b

• Develop and maintain the highest quality soils • Enjoy the premiums available for organic production

Why Use Agrow Blend Compost • Improve tilth

Worms ________ Gloves ________ Ants ___________ Springtails ____

Hint: Research the approximate length of these items and organisms first.

Standards: Math- Grade 3: Algebra and Functions (AF) 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 2.1; Measurement and Geometry (MG) 1.1, 1.4; Mathematical Reasoning (MR) 1.0; Grade 4: AF 1.1; MR 1.0; Grade 5: Number Sense (NS) 1.1, 2.1, 2.4, 2.5; AF 1.2; MR 1.0; Grade 6: NS 1.3; AF 1.1, 2.1; MR 1.0; Grade 7: NS 1.3; MG 1.1; MR 1.0

Ha ve Yo u Heard of Vermic omp ost ing?

Vermicomposting is a composting technique that primarily uses earthworms as decomposers.

food n i sc E

A

ra p s an d G A k e a e x m cellent RB ste wor d!

w

• Produce the greatest possible yields at the lowest possible cost

Determine the length of the shovel in:

m fo o

a

ht eig w r i . he day an eat t rms c craps each o w rth ood s Ea in f

yar d

• High fertilizer value

The class uses a 48-inch shovel to turn the compost pile.

G

Agrow Blend Compost

• Reduce irrigation cost • Improve drainage

Earthworm s five hea have rts.

• Reduce need for pesticides • Lower fertilizer cost

(707) 485-5966 coldcreekcompost.com

ar th eir worm skin s brea the and have through no ey es.

E th

Custom Blending available!

common types o The most f ed for vermicom earths u s m r o w are red wiggler posting s.

Castings out – castings are the product of worm digestion and contain concentrated nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.

Incorporate worm castings into the garden soil for improved plant health!

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

8

pkins & Squash P um Treasures of the New Wor ld

P u bli c a tio n of So n o m a C o u nty Fa r m Bu re au • so n o m a f b.o rg

P

umpkins and Squash are members of the “Cucurbita” family. This family also includes cucumbers, gourds, and zucchini. These annual plants grow on vines and are native to the Americas. Pumpkins and squash can be used to make soups, breads, and pies.

Pumpkins and gourds are also grown for ornamental purposes, and for feeding livestock.

3.

Using the word bank, identif y the parts of the pumpkin by filling in the numbered blanks.

1.

2.

Blossom end – The scar at the bottom of the pumpkin that was once a flower that was pollinated and developed into fruit.

Ribs – Indented ridges running from top to bottom on the outside of the pumpkin.

Brain –The slimy and mushy mass of string and seeds inside a pumpkin.

Leaves - Absorb light energy from the sun for photosynthesis.

Pulp – The edible inner layer of the skin, also called the “meat.”

10.

4.

Tendril – Attached to the stem or vine, tendrils twist around objects to anchor and protect the plant.

Seed coat – The outer layer of the seed.

Shell – The skin and the pulp of the pumpkin.

8.

5.

7.

6.

Seed – The beginning of a new pumpkin that can be planted or roasted and eaten as a tasty snack.

Stem – Located on top of the pumpkin, the stem is attached to the vine to transport nutrients to grow the pumpkin.

HIGHLIGHT

9.

Standards: ELA - Grade 3-8: Reading 2.0; Grade 3: Reading Comprehension 2.3

What Will the Squash?

Look Like Solve the Punnett square to determine the genotypes and phenotypes for the color of the offspring when a female Onyx (dark green) squash and male Gold Rush (yellow) squash cross. Dark green is the dominant color. When two different varieties cross, their offspring are called hybrids.

Standard:

H

ow a person, animal, flower, plant, and/or fruit looks depends on the genes inherited from the parent. Each parent plant gives one gene to the offspring. Two genes determine the genotype (genetic makeup) and the phenotype (a trait or characteristic).

BOB MUELRATH

Onyx (dark green) = Bb Heterozygous

Bob Muelrath grows thousands and thousands of pumpkins and specialty Male gourds each year on his Santa Rosa ranch. Each October he opens his farm for the pumpkin season, offering all manner of Halloween fun.

Gold Rush (yellow) = bb Recessive Homozygous How many of the offspring are dark green? ________ What is the percentage of dark green offspring?________ Convert the percentage into: Fractions: ______ Decimals:______ How many of the offspring are yellow? ________ What is the percentage of yellow offspring? ________ Convert the percentage into: Fractions: ______ Decimals:______

Science - Grade 7: 2.b, 2.c; Mathematics - Grade 3: Number Sense 3.1; Grade 4: Number Sense 1.4; Grade 5: Statistics, Data Analysis, and Probability 1.3; Grade 6: Number Sense 1.0

are¿A qué se ops Resuelve el cuadro de Punnett para determinar los genotipos y fenotipos para cerán l retoño cuando se cruza un ? el color delhembra Onyx (verde oscuro) con calabacines calabacín un calabacín macho Gold Rush (amarillo).

Pepperwood means... natural FUN!

L

El verde oscuro es el color predominante.

Cuando dos variedades diferentes se cruzan, sus retoños se denominan híbridos.

a manera como se ve una persona, animal, flor, planta o una fruta depende de los genes heredados de sus progenitores. Cada progenitor de la planta le pasa un gen a su retoño. Dos genes determinan el genotipo (composición genética) y el fenotipo (un rasgo o característica).

Our 3,200 acre nature preserve is home to over 900 species of plants and animals, like this Screech Owl. Maybe one is living in your own backyard!

Onyx (verde oscuro) = Bb heterocigótico Gold Rush (amarillo) = bb homocigótico recesivo ¿Cuántos retoños son verdes oscuro? ________ ¿Cuál es el porcentaje de retoños verdes oscuro?________ Convierte el porcentaje en: fracciones: ______ decimales:______ ¿Cuántos retoños son amarillos? ________ ¿Cuál es el porcentaje de retoños amarillos?________________ Convierte el porcentaje en: fracciones: ______ decimales:______

Female Flower

Sign up for one of our family classes, hikes, or our summer camp!

Male Flower

Color me!

www.pepperwoodpreserve.org

O

n a pumpkin plant, there are separate female and male flowers. The fertilized female flower becomes a pumpkin.

It is best to water pumpkin and squash plants at the roots rather than sprinkling from the top. Drip systems deliver water straight to the roots.

Sources: University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources www.ucanr.org, Purdue University-www.hort.purdue.edu

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

a f te y i s a T EAM E f fo r t S d o o F Food Safety is a Team Effort

AFETY FOOD S

FOOD SAFETY TEAM

9

TEAM

MIKE BENEDETTI CLOVER-STORNETTA Mike Benedetti is part of the food safety team at Clover-Stornetta Farms in Petaluma.

Mike checks the strength of a chemical cleaner used to wash the stainless steel milk processing equipment.

EAM TY T

E SAF D O FO

C RULJA BILL K ORNETTA R-ST from CLOVE mples

ilk sa terial ecks m rms for bac h c c a ulj y fa ty test Bill Kr County dair od safe ensure fo a r m e o th n So ano ms to tta Far d dair y This is e . n ls r e to v le r-S an t Clove s milk done a lity of it a u q um maxim . ts c u d pro

Food safety practices are important in every stage of food production, preparation, and consumption. Good agricultural practices have been developed by agriculture, and government agencies, and each step in the process is inspected or monitored.

It takes teamwork to ensure the safe and abundant food supply we enjoy!

PRODUCTION At the farm, soil and water are tested for pathogens and monitored to prevent contaminants.

PROCESSING Sanitary conditions continue with equipment sterilization, and maintained during washing, pasteurization, cooking, freezing and/ or packaging.

TRANSPORTATION En route, and at all stages, produce is kept at its ideal temperature.

If refrigerated, the cold chain cannot be broken at any point.

DISTRIBUTION Employees at grocery stores and restaurants follow rules and procedures during food handling and preparation.

MARCIA M CGLOCHLIN CLOVER-S TORNETTA

Marcia McG lochlin's Job is quality co Clover-Storn ntrol at etta Farms w here she veri content, labe fies milk ling, packag e seals, code product tem dates and perature. All of these eval done daily to uations are make sure C lover milk m highest safe eets the ty and quality standards.

The “Good” Guys Microbes live almost everywhere and while some are harmful, many make life easier.

Without microbes to decompose material, the world would be covered with waste!

Saccharomyces cerevisae (sack-a-roe-MY-seas sair-a-VIS-e-eye), also known as yeast, makes bread rise.

Bacillus thuringiensis (bah-SILlus thoo-RIN-jee-en-sis) is a natural pesticide found in the soil.

Lactobacillus acidophilus (lack-toe-bah-SIL-lus a-sid-OFill-us) turns milk into yogurt.

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

10

! s U g n o he m re is Fungus A A Unique Environment

P u bli c a tio n of So n o m a C o u nty Fa r m Bu re au • so n o m a f b.o rg

T

D DI

Edible mushrooms grow indoors in temperature and humidity-controlled trays or beds. Many farmers use computers to help monitor and regulate these growing conditions. The beds in which mushrooms grow contain a rich mixture of organic compost such as straw, hay, corncobs and water.

The compost is pasteurized to destroy any germs or bacteria that might harm mushroom development. Used or “spent” mushroom compost is recycled and used as fertilizer for some crops and home gardens.

Standards: Science- Grade 4: 2; Grade 5: 2; Grade 6: 5e

YO U K N O

W

Mushrooms are neither plant nor animal, but have their own biological kingdom, FUNGUS.

?

Source: www.mushroomcouncil.com, www.americanmushroom.org

MUSHROOM VARIETIES

Mushrooms come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes! There are more than 250 different varieties of edible mushrooms. Below are six common varieties. Standards: Science- Grade 4: 4c; Grade 6: 5e Source: Mushroom Council

WHITE BUTTON The most popular mushroom, white buttons represent about 90 percent of mushrooms consumed in the United States. Try them sliced and sautéed on pizza or in a quesadilla.

CRIMINI Also known as baby ‘bellas, criminis are similar in appearance to white buttons, but are more tan in color. Their hearty taste makes them an excellent addition to beef and vegetable dishes.

ENOKI PORTABELLA Portabellas have tan or brown caps and measure up to 6 inches in diameter.

Grill and serve them as “burgers” on toasted buns.

With a crunchy texture, enoki have small caps and long, spindly stems.

Try them in salads and sandwiches.

550 Mecham Road, Petaluma

(707) 664-9113

www.sonomacompost.com

Providing Quality Soil Amendments to Sonoma County Agriculture for over 25 years

OYSTER Oyster mushrooms can be gray, pale yellow or even blue! Try them over pasta with steak and red peppers.

MAITAKE Maitake are fan-shaped, without caps. Use in side dishes and soups for a richer taste.

DAVID LA W GOURME T MUSHR O

OMS David Law is a scienti st-farmer a co-founder nd the of Gourme t Mushroo Sebastopo m s in l. The com pany prod variety of uces a mushroom , scie as fungi, fo r the culina ntifically known ry, health medicinal food and trades.

Be careful what you eat!

Some mushrooms can be poisonous. Only eat mushrooms bought at a grocery store or other produce market.

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

c i n s a g ! r O t A u l Al bo

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

Learning what USDA Organic Means

11

Understanding Organic labeling

Consumers have many choices when purchasing raw, fresh and processed products. USDA labeling indicates items that contain variations of organic agricultural ingredients.

Did you know?

What it says...

Many colleges are offering degrees and specialized training in organic or sustainable agriculture.

Santa Rosa Junior College offers a degree in Sustainable Agriculture, while Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo gives students the opportunity to work on an 11-acre organic farm while earning a minor in sustainable agriculture. For a complete list, visit www.nal. usda.gov/afsic/pubs/edtr.

100% ORGANIC

What it means...

What to look for...

Contains only organic ingredients.

USDA Organic Seal

USDA Organic Seal

Contains 95% or more organic ingredients. Some agriculture products are not commercially available in organic form, so this label allows for exceptions.

USDA Organic Seal

ROSS GRICULTURE KAREN FA ARY O T

RE IA SEC

r y of secreta ’s ia n r alifo farm oss is C ranking ding Karen R e, the highest a le ur en is a agricult the state. Kar nd the state’s in re a official gricultu a r fo . te advoca ranch families d n a m far

RN CALIFO

ORGANIC

H MADE WIT IC N ORGA MATERIALS

Activity Objectively compare the look, taste, touch and smell of organic and conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. Record your observations in a chart or Venn diagram.

Organic

Conventional

Standards: ELA- Grade 3: Written and Oral English Language Conventions (WOLC) 1.2, 1.8; Grade 7: WOLC 1.3. Mathematics- Grade 3: Mathematical Resoning (MR) 1.1; Grade 4: MR 1.1; Grade 5: MR 1.1; Grade 6: MR 1.1; Grade 7: MR 1.1

LESS THEN 70%

NATURAL

Contains 70% or more organic ingredients and may list up to three of the organic ingredients on product packaging.

Organic ingredients may be present, but not in a large enough quantity for special labeling.

For meat and poultry, it means no artificial ingredients or added color and is only minimally processed. For most other products, the claim may be truthful, but it is not regulated.

NO USDA Organic Seal; can NOT use the term Organic anywhere on the primary display panel

NO USDA Organic Seal; can NOT use the term Organic anywhere on the primary display panel

The term Natural may be used anywhere on the primary display panel

Ways To Garden With Your Kids!

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: 265 Petaluma Ave., Sebastopol, 823-6404, Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat-Sun 9-5 10035 Main St., Penngrove, 992-0144, Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 9-5 Deliveries, Hay, Straw, Bedding,

• Purchase kid-sized garden tools and gloves • Establish a garden bed just for your child • Plant a strawberry patch • Read kids’ books about gardening • Place outdoor toys in the garden • Get dirty • Wear sunscreen, hats and sunglasses • INVOLVE KIDS FROM THE START!

Pet and Livestock Food, Pet Supplies, Organic Feed, Wood-Gas-Pellet Stoves, Wood Pellets, Wood Bricks, Carhartt, Wrangler, Raingear & Muck Boots, Gift Boutique & Greeting Cards, Supplier of Organic Dust-Off

California Leads the Nation

Nearly 20% of the nation’s certified organic farms are in California! Other top states include Washington, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Oregon and New York. Use the data illustrated in the graph below to estimate the total number of organic farms in each state and complete the chart.

FRIZELLE ENOS FEEDS Feeds, Seeds, N’ Country Needs www.frizelleenos.com

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

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KNOW YOUR MILK-WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE? FULL CREAM: Contains 4% milk ACIDOPHILUS MILK: Made by adding fat a live bacteria culture to milk after WHOLE MILK: Contains 3.5% pasteurization. milk fat and has a rich and creamy ORGANIC MILK: Milk that comes from texture. cows that have 2% LOW-FAT MILK: been exclusively fed What does Contains 2% milk organic feed, are kept fat and is almost as in adequate space, ‘pasteurized’ mean? popular as whole are allowed periodic •Mixing cream and water into milk. access to the outdoors the milk 1%LOW-FAT MILK: and direct sunlight, •The milk starts out in the Contains 1% milk fat. are not treated with pasture SKIM MILK: This synthetic hormones •Heat treatment to kill germs is also called fat-free The average U.S. cow will produce and are not given milk, contains less 6 gallons per day over the certain medications than one-half gram of course of a typical year. That’s to treat illness. The fat per serving and is more than 2,190 gallons a year! milk itself is identical fortified with vitamin (California Milk Advisory Board) to the milk produced A and usually with conventionally. vitamin D. BUTTERMILK: Made by adding certain organisms to sweet milk to make a cultured sour milk.

CHOCOLATE MILK: Usually made with low-fat or fat-free milk with cocoa and sweeteners added.

Flavored milk is a good source of high-quality protein and offers children a package of essential nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin D; it is considered a nutrient-rich beverage that supplies many of the nutrients that children commonly under-consume.

To get the same amount of calcium provided by 8 ounces of milk, you would have to eat 2 ¼ cups of broccoli, 6 ¾ oranges and 6 slices of white bread.

97% of the natio ns dairy's are family owned!

Cows are outstanding in their field...

The average Sonoma County Cow has 1 acre of grass to graze on. An acre is about the size of a football field without the end zones.

MAJOR DAI There are 69 cow dairies in Sonoma County and 23 in Marin County.

MOOve over Missy

Ayrshire - A breed of dairy cattle that originated from

the County of Ayr in Scotland. The average mature Ayrshire cow weighs 1,000-1,300 pounds and has red markings that can vary in color from orange to brown

The average c from 30 to 50 water each da bathtub’s wor

Guernsey - A small, cream-and-brown breed of dairy cattle

that produces more milk per unit of body weight than any other breed. Guernseys are renowned for the high butterfat content of their milk. The Guernsey was bred on the British Channel Island of Guernsey and descended from cattle stock brought from nearby Normandy

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Quality Embroidery One Stitch at a Time

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

13

MILK AS BY-PRODUCT

There are many different dairy products – such as cheese, yogurt, ice cream sour cream, cottage cheese and cream cheese. Some foods that you might not consider “dairy” might just include dairy products. For instance, you might find that a juice drink is enriched with calcium – which comes from milk. Milk is used in many, many different things – such as cocoa mix, chocolate candy, the cheese in pizza and so much more.

Did you know?

•It takes about 11 pounds of milk to make 1 pound of ice cream •It takes 39 pounds of milk to make a pound of butter.

•It takes 19 pounds of milk to make a pound of cheese.

Time for Lunch Mom and Pop!

California has been the nation's leading dairy state since 1993, when it surpassed Wisconsin in milk production.

California is ranked first in the U.S. in the production of total milk, butter, ice cream, yogurt, nonfat dry milk, and whey protein concentrate. California is second in cheese production.

(CDFA)

Before your dairy products reach grocery stores, Sonoma County Milk is purchased from local family dairies by these dairy processors.

Clover Stornetta Farms Dairy Farmers of America Organic Valley Petaluma Creamery Safeway Sierra Organics Straus Family Creamery Wallaby

IRY BREEDS

*A small portion of milk is sold to a few additional processors for specialty products

An average cow produces about 350,000 glasses of milk in her lifetime

A cow has four stomachs and 24 teeth

cow drinks 0 gallons of ay- about a rth

Jersey -A breed of dairy cattle that is renowned for the high butterfat content of its milk. Jersey cows are smaller than other breeds (800 to 1,200 pounds) and are known for their big eyes, honey-brown color and docile natures

Holstein

- A black and white dairy cow (though there are some “Red Holsteins”) that is the most predominant breed of dairy cattle worldwide. The Holstein originated in the province of Friesland, The Netherlands. They are known for having the highest milk production of all of the breeds of dairy cattle Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Steve knudsen Photography

Specializing in Farm/Ranch, Vineyards/Wineries, Horse Properties and Winemakers With over 30 years in the industry Christa Granton Insurance Services is built on a foundation of clear communication, honesty, integrity and trust

christagrantoninsurance.com

Christa Granton, CLU 255 West Napa Street-Suite F Sonoma, CA 95476 707-938-4998 cginsurance@vom.com

Fr

14

Fruit & y h s e

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Johnny Appleseed

!

S E L PP

John Chapman was born in Leominster, Massachusetts on September 26, 1774. In his early twenties, he migrated to Pennsylvania where he worked as a traveling preacher and apple nurseryman.

He eventually moved west, planting apple trees for nearly 50 years. He became known as the “Appleseed Man” and later as “Johnny Appleseed.” He died in 1845.

A

DID YOU KNOW? American consumers eat an average of 46 pounds of apples every year!

MAKE AN

STEVE DUTTON Steve Dutton of Sebastopol is a fifth generation farmer. Steve and his brother Joe grow organic apples and wine grapes on more than 1,000 acres in western Sonoma County.

ples A bushel of ap age) er av n (o weighs you If . ds 45.5 poun of ds have 182 poun y an apples, how m have? u yo do s bushel

APPLE ANATOMY Using the word bank, label the parts of an apple.

APPLE-Y DELICIOUS SMOOTHIE

BY BLENDING THE FOLLOWING: Word Bank • leaves • stem • flesh • core • seeds • skin

Ingredients 2 cups applesauce 1 cup 100% apple juice 1 cup orange juice 1 cup ice 2 tbsp. honey

You will need 2 pounds of apples to make one 9-inch pie.

How many pounds of apples will you need to make four pies?

s It takes 36 apple n llo ga e on to make w Ho . ce of apple jui u yo ll many apples wi cu e p need to make on ns? of juice? Five gallo

½ tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. ground nutmeg (Makes 2 servings) Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

WESTERN FARM CENTER Baby Chicks & Chickens Rabbits, Ducks, & Guinea Pigs * Backyard Chicken Headquarters * Pet Food & Supplies * Animal Feed & Supplies * Bird Seed * Garden Seeds & Fertilizer * Unique Gifts, Games, & More!

21 West 7th St. Santa Rosa, CA

707-545-0721 www.westernfarmcenter.com

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

15

ul Fruits an f r o l d Ve o ggies C nts ytonutrie ts and ph n ie f tr o u n s mple RED lthy. Exa MANY heart hea r h high u it o w y s p le e ke and vegetab d n peppers a s ll it e red b red fru re a ts n te on nutrient c guavas.

Many BLUE AND PURPLE fruits and vegetables contain phytonutrients that protect against cancer.Blackberries, plums, purple asparagus, purple onions, and blueberries.

Some ORANGE FRUITS and vegetables are known for having beta carotene. Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A in your body, which is important for your vision, immune system, and skin.

These listed are sources of beta carotene.

Pumpkins, apricots, carrots, oranges, cantaloupes, sweet potatoes, and mangoes.

LES EGETAB REEN V e of G rc L u A so R SEVE a good e b n a m c s calciu . and fruit ectly r and/or e b fi , m beat corr potassiu ur heart o g. y n ti s c lp a e tr h on Potassium your muscles in c m iu ts d calc and assis with digestion an oli, kale, s cc lp ro e B h r Fibe bones. ild strong reens, spinach, u b s lp e h g s, collard artichoke kiwifruit. d n pears, a

OUR BODIES BENEFIT from eating colorful fruits and vegetables!

Use the information located in the colorful stars and the body above to illustrate each of these benefits. For example, if you were to eat carrots, color the eyes orange because carrots contain vitamin A which supports healthy eyes and vision. Research other fruits and vegetables to find out what nutrients they contain – notice there are a variety of colors that can also be a good source of vitamin A.

kid-friendly veggies and fruits

The MyPlate food icon shows us how to create a healthy meal, including specific proportions of the five food groups: fruits, vegetables, protein, grain, and dairy. Fill half your plate with a colorful rainbow of fruits and vegetables.

Using a grocery store ad, cut out healthy foods you like from each of the food groups. Glue the food onto the plate in the appropriate place to create YourPlate!

Standards: Science – Grade 3: 3a; Nutrition and Physical Activity Grade 4: 1.1.N; Grade 5: 1.8.N, 1.9.N; Grade 7 and 8: 1.2.N, 1.7.N Sources: MyPlate www.myplate.gov, Fruits and Veggies More Matters www. fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org

TORREY AND LUCY OLSON GABRIEL FARM Torrey and Lucy Olson are diversified farmers who own and operate Gabriel Farm in Sebastopol. The Olsons produce apples, persimmons, Asian pears, cut flowers, jams, jellies, honey and vegetables on their 14-acre organic farm.

8 tips for making healthy foods more fun for children

1. Smoothie creations Blend fat-free or low-fat yogurt or milk with fruit pieces and crushed ice. Use fresh, frozen, canned, and even overripe fruits. Try bananas, berries, peaches, and/or pineapple. If you freeze the fruit first, you can even skip the ice!

2. Delicious dippers Kids love to dip their foods. Whip up a quick dip for veggies with yogurt and seasonings such as herbs or garlic. Serve with raw vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower. Fruit chunks go great with a yogurt and cinnamon or vanilla dip.

3. Caterpillar kabobs Assemble chunks of melon, apple, orange, and pear on skewers for a fruity kabob. For a raw veggie version, use vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, squash, sweet peppers, or tomatoes.

4. Personalized pizzas Set up a pizza-making station in the kitchen. Use whole-wheat English muffins, bagels, or pita bread as the crust. Have tomato sauce, low-fat cheese, and cut-up vegetables or fruits for toppings. Let kids choose their own favorites. Then pop the pizzas into the oven to warm.

5. Fruity peanut butterfly Start with carrot sticks or celery for the body. Attach wings made of thinly sliced apples with peanut butter and decorate with halved grapes or dried fruit.

6. Frosty fruits Frozen treats are bound to be popular in the warm months. Just put fresh fruits such as melon chunks in the freezer (rinse first). Make “popsicles” by inserting sticks into peeled bananas and freezing.

7. Bugs on a log Use celery, cucumber, or carrot sticks as the log and add peanut butter. Top with dried fruit such as raisins, cranberries, or cherries, depending on what bugs you want!

8. Homemade trail mix Skip the pre-made trail mix and make your own.

Use your favorite nuts and dried fruits, such as unsalted peanuts, cashews, walnuts, or sunflower seeds mixed with dried apples, pineapple, cherries, apricots, or raisins. Add whole-grain cereals to the mix, too.

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Create a garden the entire family can enjoy by growing your own fruits and vegetables this season

Drip Irrigation, Hand Tools, Nutrients, Organics, Soils & More

W y a t t S u p p l y. c o m WITH 4 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU SANTA ROSA • 747 YOLANDA AVENUE • 707-578-3747 NAPA • 4407 SOLANO AVENUE • 707-251-3747 UKIAH • 2200 N. STATE STREET • 707-462-7473 PETALUMA • 1016 LAKEVILLE STREET • 707-762-3747

16

e Far mers Ma h F rket T

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Finding Fresh, Unique and Local Products M

ERS FA R M 6 2 E !

E AR UNTY THE R A CO M O SO N TS IN ARK E

Fact: California has more than 650 certified farmers markets.

ARE YOU A MARKET MASTER?

Answer the quest ions below to find out!

1. Rules and regula tions at farme rs markets ensure public health and _ _ _ _ _ _.

2. What is not allowe d within 20 feet of any area where food is stored? _ _ _ _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _.

3. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ have the opportunity to interact with produ cers at farme rs markets.

4. Use the circled letters above to unscra mble and compl ete the follow ing statem ent: Farme rs markets offer a variet y of _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ produ cts.

Standards: ELA- Grade 3: Reading 2.1, 2.3, 2.6; Grade 4: Reading 2.2; Grade 5: Reading 2.1; Grade 6: Reading 2.1

KELLEY PARSONS Kelley Parsons is the tomato lady of Santa Rosa. Kelley grows hydroponic, hot-house tomatoes during the winter months when tomatoes can’t be grown in the garden.

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

FOR YOUR FAMILY, HOME AND AUTO

Vince Ginocchio 101 2nd Street Suite 120 Petaluma, CA

SONOMA COUN T Y FAR MER S’ MARK E T SCHEDULE 2013

Did You Know?

Benefits For producers: Producers can directly market and sell their products, which can supplement farm income.

For consumers: Consumers are exposed to locally produced food and the opportunity to interact with the farmers who grew it.

For communities: Farmers markets bring money into the local economy and provide easier access to fresh, nutritious food which may otherwise be limited.

Regulations California farmers markets follow a set of rules and regulations to ensure public health and safety. Some examples include: •Dried fruits and nuts sold unpackaged must be displayed in a covered container.

•All produce and their containers must be stored at least six inches off the ground.

•No live animals allowed within 20 feet of any area where food is stored.

•All produce must meet the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) quality standards.

For additional regulations, visit www.LearnAboutAg.org/markets.

armers markets have existed since humans began farming the land, nearly 10,000 years ago. Historically, when families produced more food or materials than they needed, they would meet in the town square to sell their excess harvest. Farmers markets became a traditional way of selling local agricultural products. Today, a weekly market day is still part of normal life in villages and town squares throughout the world.

707.789.3046 vinceg@heffins.com heffins.com License #0564249

Bodega Bay Community Association: 2255 Highway 1, Bodega Bay. Sundays, May - October - 10 a.m. -1 p.m.

Cloverdale Certified Farmers' Market: Cloverdale Blvd.

Cloverdale (Between 1st & 2nd Street) Fri., June 1- Aug.31 - 5:30 p.m.-Dusk Cotati Farmers' Market: 16 La Plaza Park, W. Sierra & Old Redwood Hwy, Cotati -Thurs's. June 7— Sept. 20 - 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Glen Ellen Community Farmers' Market: Jack London Village Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen-Sundays, May - October - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Healdsburg Farmers' Market 1: North & Vine Street Purity Lot Saturdays, May – November - 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Healdsburg Farmers' Market 2: Plaza & Center Street Wednesday, June – October 4 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.

Oakmont Farmers' Market 1: Oakmont Drive & White Oak Drive, Santa Rosa- Saturdays, Open All Year - 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Oakmont Farmers' Market 2: Oakmont Drive & White Oak Drive, Santa Rosa.-Tuesdays, June – October - 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Occidental Bohemian Farmers' Market: Main & Second Street, Occidental-Fridays, June – October - 4 p.m. - Dusk Petaluma East Side Farmers' Market: 320 N McDowell Avenue, Petaluma-Tuesdays, Open All Year –10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Petaluma Farmers' Market: Walnut Park, Corner of D Street & Petaluma Blvd. South, Petaluma - Sat.'s, May 19—Nov.17 2 p.m. - 5:30 Petaluma Evening Farmers' Market: 2nd Street - between B & D Streets, Petaluma - Wednesdays, June 6 - August 29 4:30 p.m.- 8 p.m.

Redwood Empire Farmers' Market: 1351 Maple Avenue, Santa Rosa-Wednesdays, Open All Year - 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Redwood Empire Farmers' Market: 1351 Maple Avenue, Santa Rosa-Saturdays, Open All Year - 8:30 a.m.- 1 pm Redwood Empire Farmers' Market: 282 South High Street, Sebastopol- Sundays, Open All Year - 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Rohnert Park Farmers' Market: 500 City Center Drive, Rohnert Park- Fridays, June 15 - August 31 - 5 p.m.- 8 p.m.

Russian River Farmer's Market: 16151 Main Street, Guerneville Thursday, June 21 - September 27 - 3 p.m.- 7 p.m.

Santa Rosa Original Certified Market: 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa- Wednesdays, Open All Year - 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Redwood Empire Farmers' Market: 1351 Maple Avenue, Santa Rosa-Saturdays, Open All Year - 8:30 a.m. -1 p.m.

Santa Rosa Certified Farmers Market: 1450 Guerneville Road, Santa Rosa-Thursdays, July, August and September - 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Santa Rosa Downtown Market: Fourth & E Streets, Santa Rosa Wednesday Nights, May 9 - August 29 - 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Sebastopol Farmers' Market: Weeks Way & Petaluma Street, Sebastopol -Sundays, Open All Year - 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Sonoma Valley Certified Farmers' Market: Arnold Field 1st Street West, Sonoma-Fridays, Open All Year - 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Valley of the Moon Certified Farmers Market: Sonoma Town Plaza, 2 E Napa St., Sonoma-Tues.'s, May 1—Oct. 23 - 5:30 p.m.-Dusk Windsor Certified Farmers' Markets 1: Windsor Town Green Market Street, Windsor- Sundays, April - December 16 -10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Windsor Certified Farmers' Market 2: Windsor Town Green Market St., Windsor-Thursdays, June 14 - August 30 - 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

Hi kids k Kids ids,

My name is Earnie.

Join my Piggy Bank CluB* and let me teach you how to be money smart! Join my Club and receive a free Piggy Bank.

Parents,

Our Piggy Bank Club* helps you teach your child about saving money in Earnie’s special bank designed with Save, Spend, Invest and Donate sections. Visit any Exchange Bank location near you to find out how easy it is to open an account today. *The Piggy Bank Club – The Piggy Bank Club is open to children ages 12 and under and is an interest bearing savings account with no minimum opening deposit. See our Deposit Account Fee Schedule for additional account details.

www.exchangebank.com | 707.524.3000

17

UNDERGROUND EDIBLES oots, tubers, and bulbs are three examples of R specialty crops that are grown underground.

Each underground edible acts as a storage unit that provides the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow and bloom.

Tap Root

Roots: There are two different types of root

systems: fibrous and tap. Fibrous roots are those that have many branches of the same size. Tap roots have a single large root. The tap root is the most common part of the plant that we eat. Examples include carrots, beets, radishes, and turnips.

Fibrous Root

Square Roots:- If you have a garden space

of 4.5 ft. x 4.5 ft., how many onion seeds can you plant?

Determine the perimeter and area for the garden space.

RS E B U

Space requirements: Allow 2 inches between each seed and 18 inches between rows.

T

Standards: Mathematics – Grade 3: Measurement and Geometry 1.2, 1.4; Mathematical Reasoning 1.2, 3.1, 3.2, Grade 4: Measurement and Geometry 1.1, 1.4

P u bli c a tio n of So n o m a C o u nty Fa r m Bu re au • so n o m a f b.o rg

Bulbs: are planted in the ground and act as an underground storehouse. In the center of the bulb is a bud, ready to sprout when the environment is right. If you were to dissect the bulb, the bud inside looks like a miniature flower! The bud is surrounded by scales that contain nutrients the bulb will need to flower. Examples of bulbs are onions, garlic, green onions, and fennel.

B

18

S LB U

Tubers: are underground

plant structures that are enlarged to store plant nutrients. They are used by plants to survive the winter or dry months and provide energy and nutrients for re-growth during the growing season. Tubers have leathery skin and growing points where new plants can develop.

Potatoes, yams, sweet potatoes, and Jerusalem artichokes are tubers.

An aquifer is an underground bed or layer of permeable rock saturated with water that farmers can use.

Nutritional Values: These specialty crops

A JR CASTANED ER O T R E B M HU FARM COUNTY SONOMA family

D

and his staneda Jr. a C o rt e b m Hu acres in bles on 200 ta e g ve w gro ce tomatoes, They produ . sa o R gies for ta n Sa d other veg n a i in h cc u the San peppers, z County and a m o n o S markets in ay Area.

Francisco B

ou Know?

Y id Baby carrots are regulahr two inc carrots cut intos. piece

- ENTER SONOMA COUNTY FARM BUREAU’S

A GRICULTURAL C OLORING C ONTEST WIN

AN ICE

CREAM PARTY

FOR

YOUR ENTIRE CLASS!

Carrots Garlic Radishes Beets

are high in: Beta carotene and fiber Vitamins B6 and C Vitamin C and calcium Vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron

ERGROUND FUN D N U more In California, we grow sset, red, sweet potatoes than ru es. white, and gold potato

The majority of garlic grown in the United States comes from California.

Can you grow a carrot using only the top ¼ inch of a carrot root?

Form a hypothesis and develop an experiment.

Take measurements and record your observations over time.

Standards: Science – Grade 3: 3a, 3d, 5a, 5c, 5d, 5e; Grade 4: 3b, 6b, 6c; Grade 5: 2a, 6c, 6f; Grade 6: 7a, 7b; Grade 7: 5a, 7c; Grade 8: 9a

Sulfuric compounds are what irritate your eyes and cause you to cry when cutting onions.

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Skyview Nursery - Free 4” Potted Plant *T HIS A D

ALL SONOMA COUNTY

GRADES

IS

N OT T HE C OLORING P AGE

K-6

ARE ELIGIBLE

DEADLINE - WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2013 TO ENTER THE CONTEST, DOWNLOAD A COLORING PAGE & ENTRY FORM ONLINE

WWW.SONOMAFB.ORG/COLORINGCONTEST

CALL 707.544.5575 FOR MORE INFO

Skyview Nursery is family owned and operated in Sonoma County.

We specialize in seasonal vegetable and flower starters, herbs, perennials in bloom, ornamental grasses and dahlias.

Redeem this coupon by visiting us at the following farmer’s markets:

Our owner and grower, Glenn Griess, is a Sonoma county native with over 50 years of horticultural experience. Glenn will be happy to provide friendly help and advice for all of your plant needs.

Redwood Empire Farmers Markets at the Santa Rosa Vets Building Wednesdays, 8:30am-11pm Saturdays, 8:30am-1pm Year round

Follow us on Facebook or visit us on the web at www.skyviewnursery.com

Cotati Farmers Market Thursdays, 4:30pm-7:30pm June - Mid September

Windsor Certified Farmers Market Sundays, 10:00am-1:00pm April through December

Valid for selected varieties only. Adult must accompany child and present coupon to redeem. Limit one per child, please. Expires 12/31/2013.

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

19

3244 Gravenstein Hwy. North Sebastopol, CA 707.823.9125 www.harmonyfarm.com The Worm Factory 3 Tray Worm Composter is a great way to start!

Easy to grow!

Short growing season!

Exciting to harvest!

Sunflowers, Lettuce, Radishes, Snow Peas, Cherry Tomatoes, Nasturtiums, Bush Beans, Carrots, Potatoes, & Pumpkins.

Worms Eat My Garbage,

by Mary Appelhof How to set up and maintain a worm composting system!

We are the “good bugs.”

We help protect your organic garden. We eat the bad bugs that hurt your garden.

Special Offer!

Bring this ad into Harmony Farm Supply and get 25% off kid’s books, plants and a Worm Factory!

20

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ATV's Today’s Safety Coloring Contest

Horsepower Moving Back in History Less than 100 years ago, farms were much smaller than they are today. A farmer was able to walk his field. An average farm was about 150 acres. That’s about the size of 150 football fields. Today, the average farm size varies depending on the crop. An avocado grove can be 20 acres, whereas a beef cattle operation could consist of 1,500 acres. You can see why farmers use pick-ups and All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) to travel through their fields!

For farmers, ATVs and other small vehicles are more than sports toys. They are work vehicles. Farmers have to check on their orchards and crops on a regular basis.

They need to make sure that sprinklers are working properly, that drip irrigation lines are at the right location, and that fruit at the other end of the orchard is ready to harvest. Like motorcyclists, ATV riders should utilize proper safety practices and wear a protective helmet while operating their vehicle. Some farmers’ vehicles are even specially equipped with Global Positioning Systems (GPS) that show where the vehicle is in the field. So, the next time you see an ATV, think of it as another handy tool for farmers.

ATV Word Search Boots Control Field Gloves Googles GPS Haul Helmet Horse Protection Rules Safe Technology Terrain Trails

(Check your answers on www. kids.learnaboutag. org/wgo5/atv)

Did you kno

horses to ac

w?Cattle ranches still

cess rough te

Enter to WIN! Color in the above tractor picture and send it to:

Garton Tractor 211 Cresco Ct. Santa Rosa, CA 95407

For your chance to WIN a Kubota peddle tractor!!

(((()

-----

depend on ilderness ar eas.

rrain and w

Horsepower is…

Horsepower is defined as work done over time. One horsepower is 33,000 lb.- ft./minute. In other words, if you were to lift 33,000 pounds at the rate of one foot per minute, you would have been working at the rate of one horsepower. (For instance, your family’s lawnmower may have 6.5 horsepower or even more!)

Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Want to be in the know about ATV Safe Riding Tips?

Check out the 4-H Community ATV Safety Program at www.atvyouth.org

CRAIG WIESN ER Craig Wiesner is the manager of G arton Tractor in Santa Rosa. Garton Tr ac tor sells and services the tractors and other agricultural equi pment farmers need to plant, grow and harvest their crop s.

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

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l a l y c i T n e rrific h c e T What is Biotechnology?

Biotechnology is a big word! We can break it down by looking at its Greek roots.

Let’s Look At How It Works Step

Scientists identify a trait within a living organism that they would like to change. For example, it would be useful to change yellow corn with the trait “easily eaten by insects” into yellow corn with the trait “toxic to insect pests.”

Useful traits are encoded Step by “genes of interest.”

1

Biotechnology: The art of using living organisms to provide useful products, processes and services to humanity.

2

What are other words that have the prefix –bio or suffix –logy? List the words and definitions below.

Bio-_________________________ Definition: ______________________________ ________________________________________ ________________________ -logy Definition: __________________________________ __________________________________________

Standards: ELA- Grade 3: Reading 1.1, 1.2; Grade 4: Reading 1.2, 1.3, 1.4; Grade 5: Reading 1.2, 1.4; Grade 7: Reading 1.2

Sources: www.mobio.org, Missouri Biotechnology Association; Biotechnology at UC Davis, UC Davis Biological Science Division; www.whybiotech.com, The Council for Biotechnology Information

Is it New? Biotechnology may sound new, but is has been around for thousands of years! Since 1800 B.C., early agriculturalists have used microbes for the fermentation process of making bread and producing cheese. What is new is the hightech tools scientists use to modify these living organisms.

Scientists may look for “genes of interest” anywhere in nature. All living things use DNA to encode genetic information, which is organized into units called genes. One or more genes will work together to encode a trait. For example, many bacteria have genes Step that allow them to produce molecules toxic to insects.

3

Scientists isolate a gene of interest from a donor organism’s DNA and make many copies of it—this process is called cloning.

A gene may be transferred into a single-celled organism, such as a bacterial cell, on a special loop of DNA called a plasmid vector. The bacterial cells Step are encouraged to grow and divide, making many identical copies of the plasmid carrying the gene of interest.

4

Finally, yellow corn plant cells take up the plasmids and the gene of interest integrates into the plant DNA. Resulting plants will have the gene of interest and will express the useful trait.

In fact, scientists have done this by adding a gene called “Bt” to the genetic information found in yellow corn!

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT GROW WITH PEACE OF MIND What happens when things don’t go as planned — when mother nature affects the farm?

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P u bli c a tio n of So n o m a C o u nty Fa r m Bu re au • so n o m a f b.o rg

Beat the HEAT

There are two main temperature scales:

What do you have in common with a construction worker, an athlete and a farm employee? We are all at risk for heat illness. Hundreds become ill each year due to dehydration or over exerting themselves in hot environments without resting to cool off.

Brainstorm ways to stay safe when temperatures Y start rising!

ACTIVIT nal o?

D es. Fill in the fi u ic o o h Y c d ld o u o g o g W What symptoms ss by makin e e h t ln il o t t a d e n h o p t s n e e rev uld r We can help p ow how you wo h s o t s ip r t s omic frame of the c . of heat illness

°F, the Fahrenheit Scale (used in the US) °C, the Celsius Scale (used in most other countries) They both measure the same thing (temperature!), but use different numbers:

°C

When you freeze WATER, it measures 0° in Celsius, but 32° in Fahrenheit When you BOIL water, it measures 100° in Celsius, but 212° in Fahrenheit

30

CONVERT FERENHEIT TO CELSIUS To convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, first subtract 32, then multiply by 100 then divide by 180 To convert from Celsius to Fahrenheit, first multiply by 180 then divide by 100, then add 32 180/100 can be simplified to 9/5, and likewise 100/180=5/9,

45 40 35

25 20 15 10 5 0

°F 110 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20

So this is the easiest way:

°F to °C Deduct 32, then multiply by 5, then divide by 9 °C to °F Multiply by 9, then divide by 5, then add 32.

WARNING! The following can SPEED UP HEAT stress: ·Exposure to the sun or sunburn. ·Beverages with caffeine such as soft drinks. ·High temperatures and humidity. ·Times of high activity.

Suggested Fluids Intake 8 to 12 cups of fluids per day. Cool water is preferred as it is absorbed more readily than warm, hot or iced water.

! n o o t r a c e h t finish

Standards: Visual Arts- Grade 3: 2.0; 5.3; Grade 4: 2.0; Grade 5: 2.0; Grade 6: 2.0; Grade 7: 2.0; Grade 8: 2.0

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• Drinking small amounts of water frequently is better than drinking lots of it less often.

• Sweating is your body’s natural way of cooling itself down.

BRYAN LITTLE The sweat leaves your skin through tiny holes Br yan Little is th e Chief Operatio ns Officer at the California Fa called pores. When rm Employers La bor Service, which helps farmers co the sweat hits the mply with labor laws and safety standards for the workers employ air, the air makes it ed on farms an d ranches. evaporate (this means it turns from a liquid to a vapor). As the sweat evaporates off your skin, you cool Draw a line to match each type of heat illness to the down.

ACTIVITY SYMPTOM

possible symptom and treatment. Check your answers at kids.learnaboutag.org/wgo7/heat

ILLNESS

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CLEANING • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • PEST MANAGEMENT • NURSERY

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dizziness confusion cramps blisters

heat heat heat heat

stroke rash exhaustion cramps

POSSIBLE water sports drink shade rest

Standards: Science- Grade 3: 3c; Grade 4: 3b; Grade 5: 2. Physical Education- Grade 3: 4.5; Grade 4: 4.5; Grade 5: 4.2 Source: UC Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Far m News fo r kid s • Bee Healthy. . . Far m Happy • 2013

TOP CROP

REPORT

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DID YOU KNOW? SONOMA COUNTY farms and ranches annually produce $600 million in farm products. That figure makes Sonoma County one of the leading farm counties in California and among the top 50 farm counties in the United States. Sonoma County ranks 19th among California counties and 40th county in the nation for agricultural production. California leads the nation in agricultrual production.

MILLION DOLLAR CROPS Top Ten Crops in Sonoma County Annual Production Value •Winegrapes…………………………. $347 million •Milk …………………………………….$94 million

TONY LIN EGAR

•Poultry………………………………….$45 million •Livestock and Poultry Products....$24 million •Cattle and Calves ………………......$12 million •Vegetables……………………………..$9 million •Ornamental Nursery Plants……...$9 million •Misc. Nursery Products………….....$7 million •Sheep, Lambs and Wool …………...$5 million •Apples…………………………………….$5 million

WEATHER

plays an important role in plant and animal production.

Bad weather can ruin or delay a crop, making less food available or production costs rise. This can then cause food to become more expensive to the consumer.

Tony Lineg ar is the So noma Cou Agricultura nty l Commissi oner. He is county’s le the ading farm official and agricultura enforces l regulation s on more 500,000 a than cres of farm land in So County. noma

ACTIVITY

A $ H buck using, C Y t m DIT . Firs r far

ge l o MO is pa r bil ced C O M our own dohllagraphic on othdities prodf uyour

as n y comm picture o Add ity C Desig p 10 mod o t w a m bill. e o , dra ity of th ollar n the C d e e h n e T mod . se o of th our com unty r o s a e C choo t a a en k h of y nom he c : Mil lue e l a in So dity in t p v m o (Exa ction rodu comm ue.” n) tal p ction Val o i o l l t i m the odu f $94 r “Pr lue o a unde v n uctio prod Portions of this page reprinted with permission from California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom www.LearnAboutAg.org

Sonoma County Farm Bureau Would like to Thank Our Publication Sponsors & Advertisers California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (CFAITC) works closely with County Farm Bureau agriculture education programs, providing resources and encouragement to spread agricultural awareness in their communities.

CFAITC is pleased to partner with Sonoma County Farm Bureau Ag Education for this edition of Farm News For Kids.

CFAITC is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that provides educators with free and low cost standards-based materials, training opportunities, and information to promote student understanding of California agriculture.

The Foundation’s vision is an appreciation of agriculture by all. Contact CFAITC to request classroom resources at (800) 700-AITC (2482) or www.LearnAboutAg.org”

A portion of the funding for this publication was made possible by the generous support from Sonoma County Supervisors

Pictured left to right: Susan Gorin, Efren Carrillo, David Rabbitt, Shirlee Zane and Mike McGuire

David Rabbitt – District 2 – Chairman Valerie Brown, Susan Gorin – District 1 Shirlee Zane – District 3 Mike McGuire – District 4 Efren Carrillo – District 5

Thank you advertisers American AgCredit Chris Maloney Crop Insurance Services Christa Granton Insurance Services Clover Stornetta Farms Cold Creek Compost DK Embroidery Exchange Bank Fairfax Lumber & Hardware Frizelle Enos Feeds Garton Tractor Harmony Farm Supply & Nursery Heffernan Insurance Brokers Pepperwood Preserve Petrucci & Sons River Town Feed and Pet Country Store Royal Petroleum Sonoma County Fair Skyview Nursery Sonoma Compost Co. W.C. Sanderson Ford Western Farm Center

Special thank you to: Design Girl Graphics Farm Bureau Foundation Hectors Honey Sonoma County Farm Bureau Twin Chefs Lilly and Audrey

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