Over 230,000 farms are up against a Jan. 1, 2025, deadline to file their detailed Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with the Treasury Department under the requirements of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). Despite facing steep fines and possible jail time for failing to file, less than 11% of eligible businesses nationwide have filed their BOI. Efforts to protect small businesses from these invasive requirements and the harsh punishment for noncompliance have stalled in Congress. Let’s review what the Corporate Transparency Act means for farmers.
What is the Corporate Transparency Act?
The Corporate Transparency Act was passed in 2021 to combat money laundering and organized crime funding. The CTA requires that registered businesses register any “beneficial owner” of the company with the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). The BOI filing requirement applies to any small business that files an incorporating document with their state business authority to conduct business in the United States,
ON PAGE 11
Left to right: Representative Alicia Gregg of Nashua, who joined judges Representative Catherine Sofikitis, UNHCE Coos County Field Specialist Will Hastings, and Associated Women member Ruth Mann for a tour of Sunnycrest Farm in Londonderry during the interview of Young Farmer Achievement Award nominee Danny Hicks (center). Read more about the nominee on page 9!
DUVALL ON NOVEMBER 9TH!
DETAILS ARE ON THE BACK PAGE!
Photo by Rob Johnson
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Joyce Brady
President
Beth Hodge
1st Vice President
Tom McElroy
2nd Vice President
Vacant
2nd Vice President Seth Wilner
Best
President, Associated Women
Ben Davis
Young Farmer Committee Chair
STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Vacant Dairy
Erick Sawtelle Government Affairs
Henry Ahern
Livestock & Poultry
Joyce Brady (Acting)
Membership
Beth Hodge
Policy Development
Ernie Vose Profile Award
COUNTY PRESIDENTS
Amy Matarozzo
Deb Robie Grafton County
Trevor Hardy Hillsborough County
Mike Bertolone
Coutny
Phil Ferdinando Rockingham County
Bruce Cilley Strafford County
Lisa Holmes
County STAFF
Rob Johnson, II
Policy Director/Acting Administrator
Leandra Pritchard
Financial Manager & Managing Editor of The Communicator
Mindy Beltramo Office Assistant
The Communicator
Bringing News to NH Farm Bureau Families
The opinions expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the New Hampshire Farm Bureau.
The Communicator is published six times per year, by the New Hampshire Farm Bureau Federation. Subscription comes with membership. It is received in the homes of over 3,000 NHFB members and stakeholders Presorted standard postage paid at Manchester, NH.
Deadlines for submissions, advertisements, press releases, and calendar listings are the first Friday of the month for the following month’s issue.
For advertising information contact the NHFB office at 603-224-1934.
RMI Celebrates 30 Years of Operation. . . . . . . . .13
RMI observed its thirty-year anniversary with a revival of the company’s beloved pig roast.
NEW! Producers of Other Edibles Listing. .
. . . .7 New NHFB member listing for other edibles, is included with the Meat, Hay, Ag Products & Services, and Fruit & Vegetable Directories on pages 6-8.
Farm Bureau Member Benefits at Work. . . . . . . 16
NOTES FROM THE NORTH
By Joyce Brady, President New Hampshire Farm Bureau Federation
It is that time of year again where our grassroots organization really shines. County Farm Bureau annual meetings have wrapped up with policy resolutions passed during business sessions heading to our state annual meeting. Any resolutions our county Farm Bureau delegates pass during our delegate session and that have national implications will then get moved on to the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) voting delegates. I will once again be part of the AFBF resolutions process this December, when state Farm Bureau resolutions are reviewed prior to being presented to state delegates at the AFBF convention being held in San Antonio, Texas in January. This year at our state annual meeting, being held on the UNH Durham campus, AFBF President Zippy Duvall will be joining us. I hope you have made plans to join us for the one-day event. I enjoy visiting with President Duvall 4-6 times a year during AFBF gatherings. He is a very approachable, humble, and easy-going man, with a strong passion for the success of Farm Bureau.
We started the new fiscal year October 1st, ending the 2023-2024 fiscal year in a better position than anticipated. A huge thank you to all members who renewed their membership. Without you as a member, we don’t have a Farm Bureau. We still have a lot of work to do. There are still many farmers out there who are not members and many others that have land enrolled in Current Use, have homestead licenses, or benefit in other ways because of NHFB’s legislative workwho should be members
In order to maintain our fiscal house and free staff time, a change we are making beginning in 2025, is printing this paper (The Communicator) quarterly instead of bimonthly - as it has been printed in recent years. This will enable our staff more time to focus on communicating with you and disseminating information more in-line with the ways information is consumed in today’s world.
I was in Wisconsin for the fall AFBF board meeting the first week of October. The meeting was scheduled during the World Dairy Expo, in which we all went for the opening day. There was also a tour of a goat dairy farm and a 200 head dairy farm. The goat farm had a retail store and its own creamery. LaClare Creamery is one of the only 100%-domestically produced goat cheese brands in the country and they source milk exclusively from goat dairies within 10 miles of their creamery, reducing miles traveled and CO2 emissions. The dairy farm, PollackVu Dairy Farm, is a 5th generation farm that is part of the Upper Fox Wolf watershed group. They grow both peas and lima beans for canning, and have implemented various conservation practices with an eye towards sustainability.
The best part of the trip for me was when my counterpart, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau President Larry Reagan, gave me a lasso and a roping lesson!
New Hampshire Farm Bureau President Joyce Brady
NHFB President Joyce Brady received a roping lesson from New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau President Larry Reagan. Photo courtesy of Joyce Brady.
NHFB Policy Director Rob Johnson, RCFB President Phil Ferdinando, and NHFB President Joyce Brady at the Merrimack County Annual Meeting.
Photo by Leandra Pritchard.
President Brady attended county annual meetings to acknowledge each member in attendance and thank them for their membership.
Above: President Brady addresses MCFB members. Photo by Leandra Pritchard.
Below: Ruth Scruton, Joyce Brady, and Bernie Liberi at the Strafford County Annual Meeting. Photo by Rob Johnson
Safety First: Make Sure your Horses, People and Property are Safe
by American National Insurance
When it comes to owning horses, it’s important to make sure you’ve taken the right steps to reduce the risk of injury to not only the horses, but also people and property. Some hazards – like frayed electrical wire – can easily be eliminated, while others are inherent and must be controlled with reasonable measures based on today’s knowledge and technology.
As a horse owner or someone who has responsibility for horses, you should be familiar with the unique risks and exposures associated with them.
Consider the following in managing your risk:
• The horse(s) you own or for which you are responsible (care, custody, control)
• The people who will be near the horse –employees, customers, others
• The location of the horse – where the interaction takes place
• The types of interaction between the horse and people
• Tack
• Facility
• Liability and waivers
• Negligence
• Written safety program
The Horse
If you own, lease or board horses, you are responsible for knowing their propensities. If you board a horse with others or lease a horse to others, you have an obligation to inform them of known propensities.
–TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE––FARM BUREAU DISCOUNT–MEMBERS
Propensity is a tendency to engage in a specific
behavior, such as biting or kicking. Propensity is specific to a horse, not a breed. Some states define a dangerous horse by “one free kick.” After determining propensities, you must then act on them to warn, instruct and protect people who will be in contact with the horse.
Dangerous propensity is defined by state law and is the most severe risk because you are held strictly liable. It also requires the highest standard of care. This is close to the wild animal standard.
The People
Know your obligations (duties) to people you place with or near a horse.
• Employees – Develop a written training plan.
• Contract Instructors – Assess their skills, require certification and require written lesson plans.
• Trainers, Groomers, Farriers, Veterinarians and Other Professionals - Regularly review propensities and controls, plus their input, for your care and control plan.
• Students – Instruct from written lesson plans.
Riders
Develop a written rider assessment method to be reviewed and signed by the rider. Include: approaching, handling, leading and turnout, tying, bridling, saddling, mounting and dismounting,
Liability and Waivers of Liability
Equine Liability Acts (ELA) or Equine Activity Statutes (EAS) – Forty-four states have laws that limit equine owners’ liability for inherent risks if they warn according to the law. One example
is a horse being startled unintentionally from an external stimulus. Know the law to gain the protection.
Waivers of liability are contracts to limit your liability. The standards of enforceability are set by each state. Two sides to every contract are: plaintiff attorneys who declare any contract is breakable (unenforceable) and defense attorneys who declare the contract is unbreakable. Select an attorney who knows your operations and state equine law.
Regarding waivers for minors, one lawyer author points out that, unless your state has ruled to the contrary: 1) a child’s signature is not enforceable, 2) parents signing a release can release their right to sue, not the child’s, and 3) if only one parent signs the release, that signature is not binding on the other parent.
For more information about ensuring that you have addressed your exposure to equine related risks, visit the Certified Horsemanship Association website, https://cha.horse/.
as
Having a strong relationship with the New Hampshire Farm Bureau over the years has given American National the understanding of what truly matters most to farmers across the state. Find a local agent at an.insure/nhfb
NH Agricultural Events
Cut Flower Grower Conference
Monday, November 4, 2024, 8:30am-3:30pm Grappone Center, Concord, NH
Statewide Cut Flower Grower Conference, exclusively for commercial cut flower growers! To register: https://bit.ly/3XdkiJ2
Equine Affair
November 7-10, 2024
West Springfield, MA
The Nation’s Premier Equine Exposition and Equestrian Gathering https://equineaffaire.com/
Granite State Graziers Farmer Mixer
Friday, November 8, 2024, from 5:00-8:00pm Six Burner Bistro 13 South Main Street, Plymouth, NH Register: https://bit.ly/3YH1hjZ
NHFB Annual Meeting*
Saturday, November 9, 2024
UNH Holloway Commons, Durham, NH
Keynote Speaker: AFBF President Zippy Duvall UNH Research Facilities & Farm Tours
NHFB Office, 295 Sheep Davis Rd, Concord, NH Stop into the NHFB office when you can for coffee and conversation with friends new & old!
New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference
December 17-19, 2024
Manchester, NH
Over 25 educational sessions over three days and an extensive trade show. https://newenglandvfc.org/
*Events marked with an asterisk are hosted by Farm Bureau.
Coos County Annual Meeting was Buzzing! by Stan Knecht, CCFB Board Member
Coos County Farm Bureau members at the annual meeting in September got a rare treat to hear about our favorite insect, the honey bee. President Mary Tichy introduced Janice Mercieri of White Mountain Apiary in Littleton, NH who gave a detailed and informative presentation on honey bees and how they produce the honey that we enjoy. They are an integral part of producing food since so many plants and trees require pollination in order to produce what we have come to expect and enjoy in our food system.
County County NEWS
The forty members in attendance enjoyed lasagna and chicken pot pie while they got to visit with other farmers from the area. The business meeting produced a new crop of directors to add to our traditional core with Paula Sweatt of Errol, Deb Joyce of Stark, Kayla Layton of Stark joining the Board. Heidi Mason of North Stratford was re-elected as a director.
Grafton County Farm Bureau Anuual Meeting
by Deb Robie, GCFB President
Janice Merceri of White Moutain Apiary gave a presentation about honey bees at the Coos County Annual Meeting.
Photos courtesy of Stan Knecht.
Grafton County Farm Bureau had their annual meeting on September 25th at Hatchland’s Dairy Delites.
After enjoying a complete turkey dinner, catered by the Hatchland crew, NH Farm Bureau President Joyce Brady, spoke about some of the programs and projects that Farm Bureau has been working on over the last year.
One of the biggest problems any owner of farm animals is having is access to a large animal vet. I have a small flock on Tunis sheep and I don’t have a vet within about 100 miles that is willing to take on a new client. To be clear, I pay my bills on time and I don’t need monthly visits but when I have an emergency I am on my own. Some vets have said if I can bring my sheep to them they would try to help. That’s not terribly practical during lambing season. Several of the attendees at the annual meeting expressed the same problems and concerns. The Livestock Committee of the NH Farm Bureau, on which I sit, has been working on this problem for over a year now. We need your help and input.
If you are an owner of any type of domestic farm animal other than a dog, cat, ferret, etc., please contact NHFB President Joyce Brady at jbrady@nhfarmbureau.org. She has been spearheading the efforts to find a solution to the problem. First, we need to find out how many people don’t have a vet and what you have tried to do to find a vet. If you have friends or neighbors that are experiencing the same problem have them contact her also. If you have a concern or questions about what Farm Bureau does, just ask. Better yet step up to the plate and Advocate for Agriculture. Volunteer to be on the county board and/or a state committee. NH Farm Bureau can only be there for you if we know what you need.
Together We Thrive: Recap of the MCFB Annual Meeting & Barn Dance by Mike Bertolone, MCFB President
On October 11th, the Merrimack County Farm Bureau (MCFB) held its annual meeting, followed by the highly anticipated 2 nd Annual Barn Dance at the Dell-Lea in Chichester, New Hampshire. The event attracted 75 attendees, providing a fantastic opportunity for members to socialize, celebrate, and raise funds for our initiatives.
The evening was filled with laughter and camaraderie as members enjoyed good food, lively music, and engaging conversation. The evening started with spirited policy discussions at the annual business meeting. A special highlight was the auction, expertly led by Farmer Phil Ferdinando (who crossed county lines to help us out!), featuring generous donations from local businesses. Our heartfelt thanks go out to our sponsors, including LAVender Veterinary Services, Grappone Ford, Contoocook Creamery, Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), Concord Barber Shop, and Murray Farms Greenhouse, among others, who made this event possible through their support and contributions. Additionally, we would like to extend our gratitude to Dave & Toutou Marsden of Dell-Lea for providing us with a beautiful venue and amazing hospitality for our event.
We also want to say thank you to the Associated Women for their donated baked goods, which were a hit among attendees!
The success of the event is a testament to the strength of the MCFB board, our farming community and the dedication of our members. We look forward to continuing our work together and hope to see even more of you at next year’s events!
Happy Harvest Season!
Editor’s Note: MCFB would also like to thank Mike Bertolone Insurance for his sponsorship and dedication to Merrimack County Farm Bureau!
The Merrimack County Annual Meeting was held at Dell-Lea Weddings & Events in Chichester in October. The event included a live auction of local products by Farmer Phil & Mike Bertolone (left), wonderful sponsors, such as Grappone Ford (middle), and a great group of farmers and farming families (right). Photos by Leandra Pritchard
The Zipline
by Vincent “Zippy” Duvall, President of American Farm Bureau Federation
The Farm Bureau Family: Who We Are and What We Do
Who We Are
When someone says “Farm Bureau,” what comes to mind first for you? Do you think back to your first Farm Bureau meeting, remember an event your county Farm Bureau put on, or maybe you’re reminded of all the friends you have made in this organization? It can be hard to put into just a few words all that Farm Bureau means to our family, our farms and our communities, but sharing our story and inviting others to experience all that Farm Bureau has to offer is critical to the success of our great organization.
What exactly is Farm Bureau? Have you ever gotten that question? At its heart, Farm Bureau is the trusted Voice of Agriculture and the leading grassroots membership organization advocating for all farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Farm Bureau welcomes and includes all types of farmers and serves all types of farms in 50 states and Puerto Rico for the benefit of families everywhere. Our collective voice is the reason Farm Bureau can advocate effectively, enrich our communities and ensure we provide a safe and abundant food supply. And as a grassroots organization, starting at the local level, the more people we invite to join us, the stronger our voice and our organization become.
This past spring, we conducted a survey that revealed an impressive statistic, 68% of the general public trusts the Farm Bureau brand. Not only that, but three-fourths of participants also said that Farm Bureau has had a positive impact on their community. That’s an incredible achievement and reflects the hard work and dedication of our members – whether it’s through our advocacy efforts, community service or simply being there for our neighbors when they need us.
However, while these numbers did show a high level of trust, the survey also revealed that there
and hay producer from Greene County, Georgia, is the 12th president of the American Farm Bureau Federation.
is a sizable number of folks who know the Farm Bureau name, but not much else about us, and that makes them less inclined to get involved. That’s where each of us can make a difference, by increasing the familiarity of Farm Bureau and sharing with our communities who we are and what we do for farmers and rural America.
The Power of Sharing Our Story
I often say that one of our biggest strengths is sharing our story and the same goes for showing people how Farm Bureau is the right place for them. These days, especially with our younger generations, people want to align themselves with organizations that match their personal values and know they can have a role in making a difference. That’s where each of us can make a difference. Telling someone about Farm Bureau doesn’t require a sales pitch or formal invitation, either. Many times, it’s just about telling your personal story and helping someone else see themselves in our organization. It can be as simple as sharing about how Farm Bureau has helped you navigate through an issue, the connections you made at an event or even the leadership skills you’ve gained through our programs. By sharing what Farm Bureau means to you personally, you can help someone to see how their values align with our mission.
Sullivan County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting by Lisa Holmes, SCFB
President
WELCOME - NEW Members!
(August 16, 2024 - October 25, 2024)
City Name Solicitor
Member Type
Center Conway Dale Drew Farmer NHFB
Deerfield Paul O'Brien Farmer
East Kingston Kirk Smith Farmer Mike Bertolone
Epping Jim Callahan Farmer NHFB
Fremont David Boles Supporter
Greenville Hendrikus "Jerry" Schurink Farmer Mike Bertolone
Hollis Kimberly Fredette Farmer NHFB
Keene Eleni Peterson Supporter NHFB
Langdon John Grasser Supporter
Lee Donna-Lee Woods Farmer NHFB
Lee Olivia Camara Student NHFB Website
Portsmouth Thomas Reis Farmer NHFB
Weare Matthew & Leanora Johnston Farmer Mike Bertolone
Farm Bureau stands with farmers and ranchers as we work together to keep our nation’s food, fiber and renewable fuel supply safe, sustainable and secure.
What We Do
The next step of sharing what we do is the easy part, and your local, state and American Farm Bureau have you covered. At every level, Farm Bureau’s strength is in bringing members together to speak with a united voice, support one another and give back to our communities. If you are looking for more ideas to share about Farm Bureau, you can head over to our Who We Are and What We Do pages, to learn more about what we focus on as an organization and what’s available to our members. Who knows, you may even find the next step in your own personal Farm Bureau journey.
I encourage you to check in with your local and state Farm Bureaus about what resources or opportunities are available to learn more about who we are, what we do, why we do it, and who we serve. We are so appreciative of the growing collaboration with our state and local Farm Bureaus on these efforts
and I am excited to see how this new approach will invite more folks into our Farm Bureau family.
Why We Do It
The final piece of sharing the Farm Bureau story is why we do it. We all depend on the success of American agriculture, and Farm Bureau stands with farmers and ranchers as we work together to keep our nation’s food, fiber and renewable fuel supply safe, sustainable and secure. It’s a mission that isn’t just meeting today’s challenges, but one that is working to support agriculture for generations to come. The decisions we make, the policies we advocate for and the members we welcome into our organization all help shape that future.
At the end of the day, Farm Bureau’s strength lies in our membership. Every engagement and experience someone has with us helps build their understanding of how the Farm Bureau family is here to support them and their communities. Let’s continue inviting others to join along by sharing who we are, what we do and why we do it.
Sullivan County Farm Bureau held its annual meeting at The Common Man Restaurant in Claremont, NH on Tuesday, September 17th 2024. NHFB President, Joyce Brady and Policy Director, Rob Johnson joined 32 members for an evening of delicious food, an engaging presentation and thoughtful policy discussion. Joyce promoted the upcoming NHFB Annual Meeting, November 9th, highlighting American Farm Bureau Federation President, Zippy Duvall,who will address NHFB member attendees. Rob provided an update on Current Use Assessment and fielded a few questions concerning the upcoming animal cruelty discussions.
Guest speaker, Christine Schadler, NH & VT Rep for Project Coyote and Co-Founder of the NH Wildlife Coalition, presented Becoming Wolf: Eastern Coyotes in New Hampshire. Chris introduced popular myths that surround the coyote and cloud our understanding of it, entertaining several questions from the group.
Regular business activities followed with the acceptance of the budget report and minutes from the previous year, 2023-2024. Two resolutions were presented; Farmers Markets need to have at least 51% of their vendors meet the state definition of a farm and a three part resolution for animal health and well being.
Directors Dean Bascom and Kristen Gowen were re-elected to new terms and Tom Strempfer and Gail McWilliam Jellie were elected to open Director positions. Long time Director Jay Phinizy did not pursue re-election and was thanked for his many years of service and dedication to SCFB. Election of officers for 2024-2025 was as follows: President- Lisa Holmes, Vice President- Phil Warren, Treasurer- Bob Cunniff, Secretary- Suzanna Strempfer. Phil Warren was thanked for leading the county as our president. The evening concluded with several door prizes supporting producers in the county.
Vincent “Zippy” Duvall, a poultry, cattle
Photo by Rob Johnson
NHFB Meat Producers Directory Buy Local buy from a NH Farm Bureau Member!
Belknap County
Arándano Farm - Belmont
Paul Gareau
603-409-2871 or paul@arandano.farm https://www.arandano.farm/
We specialize in organic-fed, pastureraised chicken and conventional-fed, pasture-raised pork.
Beans & Greens Farm - Gilford
Andrew Howe - 603-293-2853 beansandgreensfarm@msn.com www.beansandgreensfarm.com
Grass-fed beef, GMO-free pork, chicken, turkey.
Half a Penny Farm - Ctr. Barnstead
Shane & Jenn Forest603-345-5277 or 603-591-2910
www.halfapennyfarm.com
We carry pasture-raised black angus beef. USDA Certified. Cryovac packaging. Individual assorted cuts of beef. Whole, Half and Quarter shares available. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram.
HT Farm LLC - Belmont
Tim Duval - 603-630-5551
Heidi Loring - 603-630-6493 hdloring@hotmail.com
Grass-fed, farm-raised, USDA Angus beef. We sell individual cuts in our farm store, whole and half shares.
LorrenJoyce Farm - Barnstead
Amy & Brian Matarozzo - 603-235-5780 lorrenjoycefarm.com
Naturally raised beef. USDA approved. All cryovac packaging.
Shepherd’s Hut Market - Gilford
Jeff & Joyce Keyser - 603-393-4696 or jekeyser1958@gmail.com
Certified USDA freezer lamb. Various cuts fresh frozen and vacuum sealed.
We offer our own farm-raised beef and pork by the piece, half, or whole. Wholes and halves choose their own cuts. All processed in a USDA facility. Pick up and hours by appointment.
Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm - Tamworth
Sheena Harte - 603-323-7591 info@remickmuseum.org
Farm-raised ground beef, breakfast and sweet Italian sausage.
Top of the Hill Farm - Wolfeboro
Alan Fredrickson - 603-569-3137
topofthehillfarm@metrocast.net
Beef - pasture exposed and all natural by the piece, 1/4, 1/2 or whole.
Cheshire County
Archway Farm - Keene
Mark Florenz - 603-352-3198
mark.florenz@gmail.com
http://www.archway.farm/ Pasture-raised heritage pork; whole, half, or individual cuts. See our website for details.
Earth Haven Farm - Marlborough
Mary & George Iselin - 603-876-4036
www.earthhavenfarm.com
Grass-fed low-fat Beefalo. USDA labeled pkg. hamburger, roasts, steaks at our farm store or 1/4, 1/2, or whole for cuts to customer specifications.
East Hill Farm - Troy
Dave Adams - 603-242-6495
info@east-hill-farm.com
Whole, half, or individual cuts available of pork, beef, lamb and goat.
JHF Stable & Livestock - Alstead
John & Hazell Fuller - 603-835-6509
USDA vacuum-packed Beefalo and grass fed on the farm in Alstead.
Manning Hill Farm - Winchester
Sarah Costa - 603-239-4397
Grass-fed heritage beef, pastureraised heritage pork, by the individual cut or in bulk-half and whole sides Pasturerasied whole roasting chickens.
Up Top Farm - Winchester
Kathy Beaman - 603-355-0818
kathy@kbsunspaces.com
Black Angus Beef - hormone and antibiotic free, pasture raised. Grass fed, corn finished, premium freezer beef. Whole or half. Processed in a USDA facility to your specifications.
Coos County
CJEJ Farm Meat House - Columbia
Chris & Joyce Brady - 603-922-3305
USDA inspected cuts of beef, pork, lamb, and chevon. Chicken (whole and parts) and Thanksgiving turkeys also available. All grown on our farm with our own homemade grain. Store open year-round.
Northwinds Farm – N. Stratford
Scott & Heidi Mason - 603-922-8377
northwindsfarm1@yahoo.com
USDA inspected, vacuum-packed beef, lamb and veal. Sold by the side or cut. Also available through the Barn Store of New England in Salisbury, NH.
Bonnie Brae Farms - Plymouth Henry Ahern - 603-536-3880 bonniebraefarms.com
Farm-raised Red Deer venison, velvet antler, hard antler and hides. Also breeding stock. The deer are primarily grass and hay fed. USDA inspected.
Maple Ridge Farm – Wentworth Lance Rand - 603-726-1984
Farm Raised Red Deer / Elk Cross Meat for Sale $6 a lb. - hanging weight.
Rocky Road Tunis Farm - Bath
Deb Robie - 603-747-3869 wehunt4@myfairpoint.net Local Lamb.
Hillsborough County
Barrett Hill Farm - Mason The LeClairs - 603-878-4022 barretthill@myfairpoint.net or visit our website: barrethillfarm.com Beef, pork, and lamb.
Best Life Farm - New Ipswich
Chris Bille - 603-546-8786 cbille@bestlifefarmnh.com or visit our website bestlifefarmnh.com
Forest pastured Berkshire pigs, grassfed Suffolk and Dorset lambs, and fresh eggs. Pigs and lambs are sold by the half or whole share. USDA inspected frozen retail cuts are available yearround.
Broken Bow Farm - Hillsborough Joy LePage - 603-702-2135 trilepage@gmail.com
We are a small, family farm, specializing in producing the best pasture raised Cornish Cross meat birds, delicious eggs from our spoiled hens, and artisan sourdough breads. Our Nigerian Dwarf goats provide hugs and laughs with expected milk and kids in 2025.
Buckledown Farm - Francestown
Jack & Chris Hopfenspirger603-546-5835
We sell grass fed beef by the whole, half or quarter. 30 pound variety boxes are available on a limited basis.
Farm and store are open year-round and offer all natural, USDA buffalo (bison), grass fed beef, venison, elk, lamb, chicken, turkey and pastured pork. Wide variety of individual cuts, CSA shares, 1/2’s & 1/4’s, hides, skulls & breeding stock. Farm tours are also available. Wholesale available. We ship nationwide.
November/December 2024
Rockingham County
Brookvale Mercantile - Nottingham
Brenda Barthelemy - 603-693-7291 mercantile@brookvalepinesfarm.com www.brookvalepinesfarm.com/
Selling grass fed beef, non-GMO chicken, non-GMO pork, other local meats, eggs, raw milk, and a variety of products sourced locally.
Gravel Pit Farm - Nottingham
Samantha & Allan Trant603-715-6283
gravelpitfarmnh@gmail.com
We raise and sell pasture-raised pork, beef, and poultry.
J&F Farms Inc. - Derry
Phil Ferdinando - 603-437-0535 farmstand@JFfarms.com
John & Carol Hutton - 603-659-3572 coppalhouse@comcast.net
USDA certified pasture-raised lamb and pork products. All cuts flash frozen and vacuum-sealed. Various cuts available at the farm stand, special requests are filled when available.
Diamond B Farm - New Durham Meghan Bickford - 603-762-0190 diamondbfarm14@gmail.com www.bickfordsdiamondbfarm.com
All natural, pasture-raised beef, pork, chicken, turkey and eggs.
His Harvest Farm - Madbury Bruce Smith - 603-834-5012 farmer.hisharvestfarm@gmail.com hisharvestfarm.com
Pasture-raised chickens and eggs
Pinewoods Yankee Farm - Lee
Tina Fottler-Sawtelle & Erick Sawtelle603-659-8106
esawtelles@aol.com
Grass-fed beef. Belted Galloway and Angus crosses. Individual retail cuts and custom cut sides. Find us on Local Harvest and Facebook.
Raising beef and lamb. For sale at our retail store on the John Stark Hwy between Newport & Claremont. Open year-round.
Eccardt Farm Inc. - Washington George, Sandy & Ryan Eccard603-495-3830
Eccardtfarm@gsinet.net
Our home-grown grass-fed, USDA certified beef. We have an array of steak cuts and roasts all vacuumpacked for longer freshness. Lamb & pork when available.
Far View Farm - Langdon
Marilyn Stuller - 603-313-7115
m.stuller@yahoo.com
Lamb - naturally raised on pasture. Icelandic lamb is naturally lean with a mild flavor.
Hill Place Farm - Acworth
David Clark - 603-835-9086 www. hillplacenh.com USDA Inspected beef and pork.
Hay Directory Ag Products & Services Producers of Other Edibles
Cheshire County
Karl Eckilson - Dublin
603-933-9512
Mulch hay, small square bales. Pickup or Local Delivery Available Coos County
Northwinds Farm - N Stratford
Scott and Heidi Mason603-631-5953
1st Crop, Dry Round. 2nd Crop, Dry Round. Pick-up or Local Delivery Available
Thibeault Farm - Pittsburg
Richard Thibeault - 603-246-8227
1st Crop, Dry Round. 2nd Crop, Dry Round. Pick-up or Local Delivery Available
Hillsborough County
Connolly Brothers Dairy Farm LLC
- Temple Chris Connolly - 603-924-5002
connollybrothersdairyfarm@yahoo.com
1st Crop, Square. Pick-up or Local Delivery Available
Hollis Ranch - Hollis
603-465-2672
1st Cut, Timothy mix horse quality.
Old Homestead Farm - New Ipswich
Ben & Chelsea Hatcher - 978-407-6280
oldhomesteadfarmnh@gmail.com
1st Crop, Square. 2nd Crop, Square. 1st Crop, Dry Round. 2nd Crop, Dry Round. Balage, Round. Local Delivery Available
Silent Night Farm - Meredith Kendall Stapley - 603-279-8838 silentnightfarmNH@gmail.com
Rough cut field mowing (bush hogging) available within 20 mile +/- radius of Meredith Center NH. $125/hour, four hour minimum (2 hr minimum within Chemung conservation district in Meredith). Light tractor work also available.
Grafton County
Cardigan Veterinary Clinic - Canaan 603-632-7500 https://www.cardiganvet.com/ Now accepting new farm and equine clients in New Hampshire & Vermont within a 40 mile radius of Canaan, New Hampshire. Also specializing in Equine Dentistry with over 25 years of experience. Able to travel further for larger barns.
Improve crop yields with wood ash, a natural potassium source that also increases soil pH. OMRI listed. Order biosolids as a balanced and slowrelease nitrogen source. Use paper fiber for animal bedding and organic matter on fields. Call for a delivery quote for products to improve your soil health and crop performance.
Multidisciplinary private horse boarding facility with indoor, outdoor, round pen, trails. Full service farrier, serving equines in central NH.
B.R. Davis Land Services - Canterbury
Ben Davis - 603-998-3642 brdavisland@gmail.com
B.R. Davis Land services provides forestry mowing, vegetation control services and general excavation, plus produces high quality hay to central NH.
Hastings Welding and Fabrication, LLC - Pembroke
Avery Hastings 603-239-2485 aehastings1@gmail.com
Call or text me with your welding needs. You can bring it to me or I can come to you. You can check out my business page on Facebook for many of my past projects (Hastings Welding and Fabrication) .
Pritchard Farms - Pembroke Jay Pritchard - 603-828-1307 pritchardfarms13@gmail.com
We repair: Farm equipment, implements, tractors, construction equipment as well as perform welding & fabrication jobs. Reasonable hourly rates at our shop in Pembroke.
Belknap County
Kenyon Acres - Northfield kenyonacres@gmail.com https://www.kenyonacres.com/ Local honey
Main Street Maple & Honey FarmBelmont
Kevin Day kevinday7171@gmail.com www.mainstreetmapleandhoney.com
Honey and maple syrup is what we do. We also offer services such as swarm catches, hive removals, cutouts from homes or buildings and offer many other products based on honey and maple syrup. We have a Facebook presence and an online store.
Grafton County
North Facing Sugarworks - Wentworth Ray Welch Instagram.com/northfacingsugarworks/ rwelch.jkloggingllc@gmail.com
Local maple syrup
Hillsborough County
4 Peaks Farm - Lyndeborough Michael Crombie mcrombie@tds.net
Local honey
Peter and His Bees, LLC - Amherst Peter de Bruyn Kops Facebook.com/NHlocalhoney/ dbk@acugen.com
Local honey. All our hives are in NH and we only sell honey we produce.
Merrimack County
Lamb’s Maple Syrup - Canterbury David & Janet Lamb 603-783-9912
https://www.davidlambfurniture.com/ maple-syrup
NH Maple Syrup is made by concentrating the sap of the sugar maple tree. 100% pure, nothing added.
Facebook.com/clarkssugarhouse/ Award winning wood fired pure maple syrup been being produced since 1893.
Cutting Farm - Springfield
Keith & Susan Cutting cuttingfarm@myfairpoint.net
NH maple syrup
Belknap County
Green Acres Berries
New Hampton
203-533-9090
greenacresberries@gmail.com
Family owned u-pick blueberry farm with sweeping views of the mountains. Six different varieties of no spray highbush blueberries and raspberries available for PYO or pre-picked for purchase. In addition we also have our own maple syrup, honey and jam.
Keenan Family Farm
79 Upper Bay Rd., Sanbornton 603-706-2211
keenanfamfarm@gmail.com
Carroll County
Bly Farm
620 Center St. Route 28, Wolfeboro 603-569-1411
blyfarm@comcast.net
Visit the farmstand for fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, zucchini, summer squash, lettuce, beets, peppers, carrots, eggplant, swisschard, onions, winter squash, pumpkins, potatoes, stawberries, and blueberries.
Hillsborough County
Brookdale Fruit Farm Inc.
38 Broad Street, Hollis 603-465-2240
brookdalefruitfarm@yahoo.com
brookdalefruitfarm.com
A wide variety of fruits and vegetables including but not limited to strawberries, cherries, peaches and apples. Vegetables include cucumbers, squashes, sweet corn, tomatoes, pumpkins and other specialty vegetables. Produce can be purchased at our farm stand, various Hannaford and Shaws supermarkets throughout NH, and other farm stands
NHFB Fruit & Vegetable Producers Buy Local buy from a NH Farm Bureau Member!
Currier Orchards
9 Peaslee Rd, Merrimack 603-881-8864
currierorchards@yahoo.com
Visit our farm stand. U-pick apples and pumpkins PLUS apple cider, jams, jellies, vegetables, pickles, apple pies, pumpkin bread and peaches.
Merrimack County
Little Red Hen
85 Norris Rd., Pittsfield 603-568-5540
We grow and sell sweet corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, squaash, lettuce, beans, greens, pumpkins, bedding plants, and more! Open from April to December.
https://www.cloughtavernfarm.com/ Culinary selection of dried garlic and garlic, herbs, and spices blends. PYO Raspberry patch.
Windswept Maples
845 Loudon Ridge Rd, Loudon 603-267-8492
wmfmoore1@comcast.net windsweptmaples.com
Year-round maple syrup & maple products. Sweet corn, tomatoes, pumpkins, green beans, potatoes, cucumbers, ornamentals, corn stocks, haybales, mini pumpkins all available seasonally Visit our website for farm stand hours and dates of opperation.
AFBF President Zippy Duvall Biography by Ryan Matthews, AFBF Communications
Specialist
Rockingham County
Heron Pond Farm
29 Main Ave, South Hampton 603-394-0129
andre@heronpondfarm.com
A four season farm that grows over 250 varieties of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers. Farming yearround allows us to grow and maintain an incredibly skilled and experienced staff whose passion brings higher yields, quality and flavor to our food.
J&F Farms
124 Chester Road, Derry 603-437-0535
jandffarms@gmail.com jandffarms.net
Visit our farm stand for a wide variety of fruits and veggies!
Visit us at our farm stand and find our eggs, apples, peaches, pears and vegetables at various gocery stores in Manchester, Derry and Londonderry.
Sunnycrest 59 High Range Rd, Londonderry 603-432-9652
sunnycrestfarmnh.com
Family owned and operated apple farm with PYO apples, strawberries, blueberries and cherries, plus a market with fresh local vegetable, fruits, honey, syrup and milk. Bakery offers apple donuts and home-made breads.
A family friendly, family run, pick-yourown fruit farm.
Knife & Plow
Strafford, NH
farmer.johnherrmann@gmail.com
https://www.knifeandplow.com
Vegetable producer and processor. Certified organic produce. Prepared meals. Fresh and frozen produce. Pickles, pesto and more! Retail and wholesale markets and you can find us at farmers markets. Visit our website for more details.
Retail store on John Stark Highway between Newport & Claremont. Open year round. Our own beef, lamb, vegetables, berries, apples, cider, Christmas trees, pumpkins and wreaths. Also, the best homemade pie, jam and maple syrup. PYO raspberries at the farm in July. Local made products and wholesale to Shaws, Grazi’s in Newport and Jiffy Mart in Claremont.
Cutting Farm
2666 Sanborn Hill Rd, W. Springfield cuttingfarm.com
A wide variety of fruits, veggies and much more!
Zippy Duvall has served as president of the American Farm Bureau Federation since 2016. He is a third-generation farmer from Georgia. He and his son operate a beef cow herd, raise broiler chickens, and grow their own hay, all while continuing to restore the farmland that has been in the family for more than 90 years.
Through his leadership as AFBF president, Duvall helped to shape the 2018 farm bill and is working to ensure the 2023 farm bill effectively supports farmers and ranchers. He has helped defeat misguided regulations, shepherd new trade agreements, and make certain farmers and ranchers are supported through natural disasters and the ongoing impacts of supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures.
Duvall was honored by the National 4-H Council as a founding luminary, a group of influential 4-H alumni. Prior to being elected AFBF president, he was president of the Georgia Farm Bureau and served on the AFBF board of directors. In 1987, he also served on the AFBF board as Young Farmer Committee chair.
Duvall and his wife, Jennifer, were married in December 2021. Both lost their first spouses to illnesses. They have six children and eight grandchildren.
YOUNG FARMER COMMITTEE YOUNG FARMER COMMITTEE
Learning, Leading & Networking with the Ag Industry
Each year county Farm Bureau organizations are eligible to nominate a member young farmer for the Young Farmer Achievement Award. The award recognizes young farmers (age 18-35) who are excelling on their farm and have demonstrated leadership abilities. To be eligible for the award a young farmer or farm couple must be involved in production agriculture with a majority of their income subject to normal production risks. Nominees complete and submit applications and a panel of judges tour their farm operation and conduct in-depth interviews with nominees. This year Daniel “Danny” Hicks, IV was nominated by Rockingham County Farm Bureau. On Thursday, October 22nd a panel of judges visited Sunnycrest Farm in Londonderry to interview Danny. The judges were UNHCE Coos County Field Specialist Will Hastings, Associated Women member Ruth Mann, and Represenative Catherine Sofikitis of Nashua Ward 7. Representative Alicia Gregg of Nashua Ward 7 also joined the tour.
Danny started working on his family’s farm, Sunnycrest Farm, at age eleven, and joined the farm full-time after graduating high school. Sunnycrest is a diversified fruit and vegetable farm.
Danny has many duties on the farm and one of them is to fix and maintain all of the farm equipment. He also maintains all of the irrigation on the farm and is the pesticide applicator. He and his eight-person crew plant and harvest the vegetables on the farm. He also assists in the pickyour-own orchard, farm store, and in the cider mill.
Danny is honored to be a farmer, and to join his father and grandparents in producing food for our country.
Associated Women Adventures
by Jozi Best, Associated Women President, and NHFB Staff Leandra Pritchard & Mindy Beltramo
The Associated Women’s Annual Meeting was held on September 10th at Sanborn Mills Farm in Loudon, NH. The group was led under blue-bird-blue skies on a tour of the gorgeous grounds, Sawmill, Grist Mill, Old Blacksmith Shop, Woodworking Studio, New Carriage Barn and Dormitory by owner and visionary, F. Colin Cabot. We met the working oxen team, explored the gardens, and took a peek into the latest building, the Grange, which is currently under renovation. Following the tour, the group was treated to a delicious meal featuring local foods, many of which were grown on the farm.
On October 15th, the Associated Women continued their tour of farms around the state and journied to Trombly Gardens in Milford, NH. Sean Trombly and farm staff gave the women a wonderful tour. Their farm puts a lot of focus on educating the public about agriculture from their specialty agritourism events such as lambing days, to producing quality fruits and vegetables for their customers to enjoy. Following the tour, they had a rousing round-table discussion on Farm Bureau membership and about the large animal veterinarian shortage in the state. Any Farm Bureau woman is welcome to join Associated Women! Our next meeting will be at the Clough Tavern Farm Christmas event in Canterbury on December 3rd. Please contact Jozi Best at jozibest@aol.com or 603-304-9152 or the NHFB office at 603-224-1934 with any questions.
AW enjoyed a farm tour of Trombly Gardens in Milford in October. Photo by Ruth Scruton
ORGANIZATION
Nobody serves your ag credit needs like Farm Credit East.
Farm Credit East was made in agriculture. It’s all we do. So every product, every service and every person is dedicated to meeting your financial needs and growing your success. We know agriculture, we understand your business needs, and work to achieve your goals.
Discover the difference at Farm Credit East.
Casella Organics
Colebrook
Darrell A. Louis Insurance & Financial Services
Dr. Christina Swanson
LAVender Veterinary Services
East Hill Farm
J & F Farms
Jeremy Hiltz Excavating, Inc.
Longview Forest Products LLC
Michael Sharp Enterprises LLC
Financial Record-Keeping
Profitability Consulting
Tax Preparation & Planning
Appraisals
Estate
Crop Insurance
Mike Bertolone Insurance
MJM Associates Inc
Monadnock Food Co-op
Monroe Tractor
MontShire Packing
Northern Tire of Colebrook, Inc.
Pete & Gerry’s Organics LLC
Poulsen Lumber Co., Inc.
Resource Management Inc.
ReVision Energy Inc.
Summit Eggs & Produce
The Grooming Shop by A Furry Affair
Windy Ridge Orchard LLC
CORPORATE ACT (From front)
including corporations, limited partnerships or limited liability companies (LLCs). The FinCEN classification of a “small entity” is having less than 20 employees and under $5 million in cash receipts.
While the actual structure of a business – and the process to incorporate – can vary slightly state to state, most farms operate as pass-through entities in which the company’s income is passed directly into the owner’s individual income, rather than being taxed as business revenue. When a business files an incorporating document, it is classified as a C-corporation (C-corp) or S-corporation (S-corp). When a business files an organizing document, it is generally classified as an LLC. C-corps are legally separated from their owners and are taxed at both a business and individual level. S-corps, partnerships and LLCs pass business revenue through to be taxed at the owner level, but they provide liability protection to their owners by operating as independent entities.
Beneficial owners include anyone with a significant stake in the company, whether or not they have direct legal ties to the business. This may include holding at least 25% of a company’s shares, having a similar level of control over the company’s equity or holding significant influence over the company’s decisions and operations (i.e., the authority to exercise substantial managerial control over the reporting company). Should a business partake in illegal activities, each such stakeholder is accountable for the crimes of the business.
Filings must include all personal information like addresses, birthdays and identification numbers for each owner. While this report does not have to be renewed after the initial filing, changes of address, new driver’s licenses or changes of name all require updated filings. Since having control over a business’ operations qualifies as beneficial ownership, a restructuring of job duties, even if the person does not have a legal ownership stake in the company, could also trigger requirements to file updates.
Liable Agricultural Firms
The vast majority of farms and ranches operate as sole proprietorships (Family & Individual in Figure 1) and are likely exempt from filing their BOI, but 230,792 farming operations are state-registered businesses, either as corporations or partnerships, according to the 2022 Census of Agriculture. These 12% of all farm operations operate 33% of farm acres.
Even though these farms may be legally classified as corporations, they are still small family firms. While the vast majority of farms are pass through entities, 85% of farm businesses formed as c-corps are family-owned and fall well under the employee and revenue cap set by the CTA.
Farms and ranches aren’t the only agricultural businesses that have to meet CTA requirements. Many feed and supply stores, crop marketers like grain elevators and the greater rural business community are also likely required to file their BOI and subject to penalties if they do not. The regulatory burdens and potential enforcement crackdowns could have ripple effects throughout the entire food, fiber and fuel supply chains.
Filing Delays
With just three months left to register, only 11% of the estimated 30 million companies that fall under the filing requirements of Jan. 1, 2025, have successfully filed with FinCEN.
Businesses that fail to file, or do not update records when needed, could face criminal fines up to $10,000 and additional civil penalties of up to $591 per day they fail to file. If the hefty fines are not deterrence enough, failure to file could also lead to felony charges and up to two years in prison, whether or not these paperwork violations are linked to any other crime. Since these criminal risks also apply to record updating, tracking these CTA requirements could be a grey cloud for small business owners well beyond Jan. 1.
Corporate Transparency Act Speedbumps
A lack of awareness and other permitting and filing requirements are likely the biggest reason farms and other businesses fail to meet the CTA obligations. Businesses already file registrations with state agencies to operate, leading many to believe their information is recorded with the correct agencies, but FinCEN does not receive ownership information from these agencies. Many financial institutions require their own BOI reports from customers to absolve themselves of responsibility for fraudulent transactions. However, these do not fulfill the new CTA requirements as they are not reported to FinCEN.
CTA filing deadlines also vary depending on business inception. Jan. 1, 2025, is the deadline for businesses established before Jan. 1, 2024. If businesses were registered in the 2024 calendar year, they only had 90 days to file their BOI upon notification of their business certification. Businesses established after Jan. 1, 2025, will have even stricter filing requirements; they will only have 30 days after notification of their formation to submit their initial BOI report to FinCEN. This 30-day window also applies to updates to previously filed information for all registered businesses, adding another chore for small business owners (or those exercising “substantial control”) going through business restructuring, or major life changes, such as a family death or divorce.
While BOI is free to file, business owners should consult attorneys or accountants to determine whether or not they are required to file and, if so, when to ensure they comply with FinCEN’s standards. This adds another financial burden for farmers already facing significant cash flow problems during a tough year. However, professional advice may be helpful if you run into problems attempting to file.
Conclusion
Small businesses often lack the time and the staff to track ever-changing rules and regulations pushed out by the federal government. The Corporate Transparency Act is an added burden for small business owners nationwide, including farmers and ranchers. With unclear guidance and a lack of public awareness, businesses of all sizes are struggling to comply with new BOI requirements and are quickly approaching a deadline that bears criminal consequences.
There have been unsuccessful attempts to extend the filing period for small businesses, but Congress has a long laundry list of other legislation to pass before the end of the year, including a much-needed modernized farm bill and disaster relief. For now, business owners should anticipate a crackdown on CTA filings starting Jan. 1 and take steps to ensure they are in compliance.
See the Treasury Department’s BOI filing page at https://www.fincen. gov/boi
Committee & County News Continued!
by NHFB Staff Rob Johnson & Leandra Pritchard
Carroll County Farm Bureau Convenes in Wolfeboro
On the evening of Monday, October 28th a group of Carroll County Farm Bureau members met at the Wolfeboro Library to plan the future of the organization. The group named Nadia Carpenter of Brookfield and Lawreen Strauch of Ossipee to serve as Delegates representing Carroll County Farm Bureau at the NHFB Annual Meeting. They are planning a meeting to be held in January to continue discussions. Future meetings will be held in conjunction with touring member farms in the county. The group would welcome hearing from other farmers in Carroll County. Those interested may contact Vin or Cindy Blandini by email at blyfarm@comcast.net. NHFB President Joyce Brady and Administrator/Policy Director Rob Johnson were also present.
Strafford County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting
Belknap County Farm Bureau & Belknap County Conservation District Joint Annual Meeting
On a beautiful evening on October 3rd, Belknap County Farm Bureau held their annual meeting at Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center in Laconia. Continuing with a new tradition, their meeting was in coordination with the Belknap County Conservation District. Attendees enjoyed a home-cooked meal and celebrated farmers during their “Farmer Appreciation Night.” The meeting also included presentations and information from NH Agriculture in the Classroom, Farm to School, UNH Cooperative Extension, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
Strafford County Farm Bureau held their Annual Meeting on October 10th at the Jeremiah Smith Grange Hall in Lee. Their meeting featured a presentation by Gibson Griffith, a student who received funding from the SCFB Youth in Agriculture grant program for his trip to AgDiscovery, a USDA sponsored tewlve-day ag learning program for teenagers in the United States of America. Gibson was one of twenty students chosen to attend the program at Prairie View A&M University in Texas. The focus of the program was on plant, animal, and soil sciences.
Profile Award Committee
Considered the highest award within New Hampshire Farm Bureau, the Profile Award* is presented to a Farm Bureau member (individual or couple) who have been judged to have made major contributions to Farm Bureau and agriculture in the state. Their livelihood must have been from agriculture, production or ag-industry. Priority is given to those in production agriculture. Winners are selected by a committee made up of previous recipients who select from nominations made by the county Farm Bureaus. This year’s committee met on October 22nd at the Farm Bureau office in Concord. Pictured L-R: John Porter (2012), Glenn & Sandy Pierce (2014), and Henry Ahern (2021). Bill Bartlett (2017) also contributed via phone. This year’s recipient, the first since 2021, will be announced on November 9th during the annual meeting awards luncheon.
*From 1941-1986 the award was named the Mary Lee Ware Trophy, a leading philanthropist and farmer of West Rindge. Upon her death in 1937, Miss Ware left $500 to NHFB. Her fellow Jersey breeder, George Putnam, then President, used the bequeath to establish the Mary Lee Ware Trophy to be presented for distinguished “Service to Agriculture and Rural Life in New Hampshire.” The award was renamed the Profile Award in 1987 and in 2008 expanded to include eligibility for those making their livelihoods in the ag-industry.
Associated Women were out and about showing sheep at the 2024 Fryeburg Fair! Their fair displays in the sheep barn included information on Farm Bureau membership and the ways Farm Bureau supports the NH way of life. Left to right: Jozi Best, Deb Robie, and Ruth Scruton. Photo courtesy of Jozi Best.
NHFB Member Offers Spotlight
Resource Management, Inc Celebrates 30 Years of Operation
Customers, friends, and family of RMI come together to celebrate at company
Pig
Roast
Resource Management, Inc (RMI) of Holderness, NH observed its thirty-year anniversary on Saturday with a revival of the company’s beloved pig roast celebration where friends of RMI gathered alongside staff for a day full of hearty food and lively entertainment. The event was an opportunity for RMI to show their appreciation for the customers, partners, and the invaluable relationships that made the 30th anniversary possible.
Founded in 1994 by President Shelagh Connelly, Vice President Marty Riehs, and Senior Project Manager Charley Hanson, RMI was created to provide innovative, sustainable recycling solutions to the generators of organic residuals. Today, the company is the Northeast’s leader in the industry and recycles over 300,000 cubic yards of wood ash, paper fiber, and biosolids annually.
Shelagh remarked, “I feel fortunate to have stumbled into this recycling world in my first job out of college as a soil sampler. I got to visit farm fields all across New Hampshire and meet some of the hardest working farmers in places that are incredibly rural and beautiful. This led to many years of learning the science and policy behind recycling these fertilizer products, and now 36 years later to be running RMI and employing 25 people who are all passionate about their jobs and committed to being outstanding in our field!”
Many of the attendees at Saturday’s 30th anniversary pig roast were individuals that had been a part of RMI’s story since the very beginning. As Charley shared, “our first customer was Bridgewater Power Company just down the road, and we still work with this crew today. We are fortunate to partner with companies that are like-minded in their commitment to the environment and doing the right thing.”
Despite the changes and challenges over the years, RMI has never lost sight of its mission or core values, and continually strives to do right by those it serves. The team attributes their success to strong relationships built within the local farming and land management communities, as well as a commitment to excellence that is shared by each and every employee.
Marty concluded, “I am quite proud that we have been successful for thirty years but none of those successes or years would have been possible without the trust of our customers or the guidance of our government regulators who have weathered many a storm from the sway of public opinion in which we operate, and they continue to hold us to such high standards. But the scope and breadth of our success would not be possible without the hard-working team of equipment operators, field staff, compliance and office personnel, and salespeople who have excelled at their jobs to keep RMI the success we are. Thank you all!”
RMI is the premier organic residuals recycling service provider for New England and Eastern New York. They partner with Paper Mills, Biomass Plants, Wastewater Treatment Facilities, and other producers of organic residuals where they beneficially reuse 100% of the materials that they recycle for these industries. These materials are repurposed as effective and environmentally sound soil amendments used by farmers, landscapers, topsoil manufacturers, composting operations, and other land-centered businesses to improve soil health and increase crop yields. RMI is proud to be a leader in Northeast recycling efforts and in making the world a little greener every day.
UNH COLSA/NH Agricultural Experiment Station News
UNH Trials New Sweetpotato Varieties for Northeast Growers
Research shows how sweetpotato storable crops varieties perform in northern climates
Sweetpotato, traditionally considered a southern crop, has steadily gained traction in New England farming over the past decade. Between 2012 and 2022, the region saw the number of harvested acres of sweetpotatoes rise from 52 to 171, and farm sales of sweetpotatoes more than doubled, from $143,000 to $346,000, according to data from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. While increased consumer demand for locally grown produce partially explains this growth, public agricultural research that helped test the viability of sweetpotato production in northern climates—known for its shorter growing season, colder soil temperatures, and unpredictable climate—was key to providing farmers with information to make key adoption decisions.
Becky Sideman, a scientist with the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station (NHAES), has led the research and has contributed to the rise in New England’s sweetpotato production expansion. In the late 2000s, Sideman conducted the first extensive study of sweetpotato cultivars in northern regions, demonstrating the crop’s potential to thrive in climates with short growing seasons.
“Through those early studies, we learned that sweetpotato is very productive and well adapted to being grown in New England,” said Sideman. “In the past decade, however, many new varieties have been released, and we saw the need to make sure that our recommendations to growers are staying current.”
Beginning in 2023, Sideman began testing recently developed varieties, along with her research team and collaborators, including Lilly Hartman, a research scientist with the UNH College of Life Sciences and Agriculture (COLSA); UNH Extension field specialist Heather Bryant; and Caleb Goossen, crop specialist with the Maine Organic Farmers & Gardeners Association (MOFGA). The research evaluated sweetpotato cultivars that were already common to northern climates and new varities across three locations: UNH’s Woodman Horticultural Research Farm in Durham, NH (USDA hardiness zone 6a); the Grafton County Farm in North Haverhill, NH (zone 4b); and MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity, ME (zone 5a). The
Maximizing Winter Squash Shelf Life: Storage Methods for New England Growers
Proper curing and storage conditions help New England farmers reduce spoilage and maintain quality
Winter squashes are a highlight of fall in New England: they are not only beautiful and delicious, but they also store well, lasting for several months in proper conditions. Research conducted over decades by scientists with the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station (NHAES) at the University of New Hampshire has produced varieties of outstanding quality and the knowledge of how to grow and store squashes to make sure that those winter
fruit reach their delicious potential.
cultivars were grown using organic practices in certified organic fields in Durham and Unity. The team planted the sweetpotato slips in June and harvested between late September and early October, sorting the roots into marketable, cull and undersized categories based on USDA standards.
Two varieties that are widely recommended in the northeast—Beauregard and Covington— produced moderate to high yields at all sites, and several newer varieties, including Orleans and Purple Splendor, produced particularly high yields. Marketable yields ranged from 290-619 bu/ac in Durham; 120-294 bu/ac in Unity, and 145-388 bu/ac in North Haverhill. The varieties Vermilion, Purple Majesty and Murasaki produced consistently lower yields across all sites.
In addition to marketable yield, the researchers evaluated the flesh color, flavor and texture of the sweetpotato varieties grown in 2023. A panel of evaluators, including Sideman lab members and their families, scored each variety on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 representing a strong preference. Covington stood out as a top performer in terms of flavor, earning the highest score with 4.29 out of 5. Purple Splendor also performed well, achieving high marks for its vibrant flesh color and excellent texture. Meanwhile, Orleans received solid ratings across all categories, with consistent scores for flavor, texture, and appearance.
Post-harvest management plays a crucial role in the long-term viability of sweetpotatoes. Following harvest, the roots were stored at 60°F and evaluated for brix and dry matter content over time—key indicators of sweetness and texture. The overwhelming majority of varieties tested maintained excellent quality for the duration of the six-month storage life experiment, and the researchers predict that most varieties would have maintained their quality for up to a year had the experiment continued. The long storage life of sweetpotato allows New England farmers to offer the crop throughout the year, including during seasons when fresh produce is in shorter supply and prices may be higher.
“In regions with limited growing seasons, reliable storage crops can extend growers’ sales seasons and open up different market opportunities,” said Hartman.
Sideman added that, “Sweetpotato maintains excellent quality in storage for much longer than
Winter Squash Varieties and Their Storage Needs
Winter squashes fall into three primary categories—acorn/delicata (Cucurbita pepo), kabocha/buttercup (C. maxima), and butternut (C. moschata)—each of which requires different handling to ensure maximum quality. Excellent eating quality in winter squash comes from a combination of starches and sugars that give a smooth texture and sweet taste. The fruit develops high levels of starch from healthy leaves while it is maturing on the vine, and after harvest, those starches convert into sugars.
“To achieve the best results, growers must ensure they select the right variety, harvest at the proper time, and follow appropriate post-harvest handling and storage practices,” said Station scientist Chris Hernandez, an assistant professor of plant breeding at the UNH College of Life Sciences and Agriculture (COLSA). “For example, acorn squash must be fully mature at harvest to develop its full starch content, while kabocha and butternut varieties often reach their peak eating quality after curing.”
Post-Harvest Curing Techniques and Storage Conditions
Proper curing is crucial for enhancing both the storage life and eating quality of many winter squash varieties. This curing process, which involves storing squash at warm temperatures (up to 85°F) for 1-2 weeks, helps heal harvest wounds
most other crops, and it doesn’t require energyintensive storage conditions. This makes them an attractive addition to boost growers’ offerings through much of the year.”
The study continued in 2024, and the team plans to continue evaluating new breeding lines, including those being developed by Louisiana State and North Carolina State Universities, with ongoing trials aimed at assessing their performance in New England’s growing conditions. These efforts will provide local farmers with a broader selection of high-yielding, highly storable and high quality sweetpotatoes suited for the region and equipping them to meet growing local demand while diversifying their crops and increasing profitability, according to Sideman.
“It’s been exciting to see growers across the region grow and have success with this crop,” she said, “and to see locally grown sweetpotato in our farmers’ markets and on consumers’ tables.”
and converts starches into sugars, especially for butternut and kabocha types.
“A short curing period not only extends the storage life of squash but also enhances the flavor, making it sweeter and more marketable to consumers,” said Becky Sideman, an NHAES researcher and a professor of sustainable agriculture and food systems with COLSA.
After curing, squashes should be stored at 5055°F with relative humidity of 70-75%. These conditions prevent chilling injury, which can occur if temperatures drop below 40°F. The right temperature and humidity levels can make a big difference in preventing chilling injury and rot.
Variety-Specific Storage Life
While general storage conditions work across all types of winter squash, each variety group has specific requirements to ensure the best quality. Acorn, kabocha and butternut types mature and store differently, requiring tailored handling for optimal flavor and longevity.
Acorn and delicata squash reach maturity about 50 days after fruit set, though they can reach full size as early as 15 days. Waiting for full maturity is key to ensure high starch content, with a dark yellow ground spot indicating readiness. Once harvested, acorn squash reaches peak eating quality and can be consumed immediately. UNH-bred varieties like ‘Honey Bear’ and ‘Sugar POST-HARVEST continued on page 22
Sweetpotatoes harvested at UNH’s Woodman Horticultural Research Farm in Durham, N.H. Photo courtesy of UNH
Sweetpotatoes harvested at UNH’s Woodman Horticultural Research Farm in Durham, N.H.
Photo courtesy of UNH
A ‘Tetsukabuto’ hybrid grown at UNH’s Kingman Research Farm in Madbury, N.H. Photo courtesy of UNH
Mealybug can be a difficult, entrenched pest in greenhouse crops. Learn about this pest and strategies to control it culturally, biologically and chemically.
This session is part of the 2024 Webinar Series for Greenhouse, Nursery and Garden Center Professionals on a variety of topics. One New England pesticide applicator recertification credit has been applied. If you have questions or would like assistance registering for or accessing the webinars, including language access, please contact Jonathan at Jonathan.Ebba@unh.edu or (603) 749-2529.
REGISTER
unh.how/mealybug
NEW ENGLAND VEGETABLE AND FRUIT CONFERENCE AND
TRADE SHOW
December 17-19, 2024, DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Downtown
This annual event will feature 30 educational sessions over three days, focusing on key topics related to vegetable, berry and tree fruit crops. Sessions will also cover special topics such as climate resiliency, winter growing, labor management and cut flower production. The popular “Farmer-to-Farmer” information-sharing sessions will bring speakers and farmers together for informal, indepth discussions on timely issues of interest to growers. The conference also includes an extensive trade show with over 150 exhibitors, a poster session showcasing student research and social mixers to encourage networking among attendees.
For physical, language or financial assistance, please contact Olivia Saunders at 603-447-3834 or Olivia.Saunders@unh.edu at least three weeks prior to the event and every effort will be made to accommodate your needs. A block of rooms is reserved for attendees requiring on-site accommodations for mobility reasons.
LEARN MORE
unh.how/NEVF-2024
Featured Resource
LEGAL VIDEOS FOR FARM ESTATE PLANNING
When it comes to estate planning, many farmers feel like they’re staring into a fog of legal terms and complex, emotional decisions. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by this and even put it off entirely. Estate planning is critical for protecting your farm, your family and everything you’ve worked so hard to build. In a video series, Stephanie Burnham, a leading estate planning attorney licensed in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, breaks down the key estate planning concepts that every farmer should know to ensure their hard-earned assets stay within the family, avoid unnecessary taxes and legal hurdles and transition smoothly to the next generation. The videos can be viewed on Extension’s YouTube channel.
WATCH VIDEOS
unh.how/estate-videos
Featured News
NEW WEBFORM FOR NH EXTENSION YARD AND GARDEN EDUCATION CENTER
Launched in September, a new webform at extension. unh.edu/ask provides the public with a better way to get answers to their most vexing gardening questions. Through the webform, anyone can ask a detailed question and send photos to the Yard and Garden Education Center, where a seasoned volunteer or Extension staff member will respond and research the issue if necessary.
The new webform is part of a national platform called “Ask Extension” that is used by dozens of other Extension programs at universities across the nation. New Hampshire users can search the platform’s vast knowledgebase of questions from others. With the addition of this system, the Center will cease answering questions emailed to answers@unh.edu and inquiries to that address will automatically receive a reply with a link to the new webform. The Education Center will still respond to phone calls, social media messages and walk-ins at 329 Mast Road, Suite 115, Goffstown, N.H.
LEARN MORE unh.how/infoline
The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer. UNH, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, and New Hampshire counties cooperating. Direct inquiries to unh. civilrights@unh.edu.
Last week on Sept 4th I had both some unfortunate luck and alternately some very good luck.
In short, I rolled one of our older John Deere row crop tractors. I was towing a grain drill up a steep hill when the tractor lost power and stalled. I lost all brakes and power steering on the tractor which resulted in me rolling back down the hill with nothing to slow me except engine compression. The end result of this hair-raising version of a Nantucket Sleigh ride was that the both drill, tractor and myself went off the road, down over the bank backwards and flopped the machinery over on its side in a brook bed.
I walked away without injury with only my regularly reoccurring aches and pains that attend me at age 73. Even the tractor survived quite handily, and once again we are proceeding with fall cover crops.
It was apparent to myself and anyone whom visited the scene that my life was spared by the ROPS. Tractors manufactured in the 1960s were not equipped with roll bars. But when I inherited this machine from my Dad, I decided to install one, despite the fact that we farm pretty flat ground along the river. I might not have decided to do this if there was not a cost sharing program through Farm Bureau that encouraged me to consider it.
When I consider the possible alternate outcomes of this experience it becomes pretty hard to consider installation of a ROPS on these two tractors as frivolous expense. It seems cheap at twice the price. I highly encourage you to look into the ROPS program, especially if your livelihood is dependent on older machinery.
Sincerely, Pooh Sprague
Edgewater Farm, Plainfield
(Note: Cost share funding through Farm Bureau’s NH Farm and Rural Education Foundation is not currently available.)
Ford Farm Bureau Advantage Benefit
Eli Johnson of Pittsfield used his Farm Bureau membership this September when he received $500 off the purchase of a new 2024 Ford F-350 diesel truck from Ford of Claremont.
Learn how YOU too can receive a $500 Exclusive Cash Reward on your next new Ford truck at https://www. nhfarmbureau.org/ford-farm-bureau-advantage
Image: ropsr4u.org
Eli Johnson, a NHFB member, utilizes his Ford member benefit and receives the keys from salesman Ben Mousel. Photo courtesy of Eli Johnson.
Benefits of Your NH Farm Bureau Membership
Farm Bureau policy is established through a “grassroots” time-tested policy development process in which members set the direction that guides our leaders and staff advocacy efforts. Ways you can participate include:
D Proposing a policy resolution for discussion at your county Farm Bureau annual meeting
D Serving on a Farm Bureau policy development committee
D Representing your county Farm Bureau by serving as a voting delegate at the NHFB Annual Meeting
D Staying informed by reading The Friday Review and contacting your legislators in support of priority legislation
D Hosting or helping to organize a farm tour for legislators and other NH decision makers
D Volunteering to serve on one of the numerous advisory and study committees in which Farm Bureau or the agricultural community has a seat at the table. These include the Invasive Species Committee, Rivers Management Advisory Committee, & Wetlands Council
Advocacy Networking Resources
Meet other NH farmers:
D At your county Farm Bureau annual meeting or other county Farm Bureau event, NHFB summer picnic, or the NHFB annual meeting
D By serving on your county Farm Bureau Board of Directors or an NHFB committee
D Participating in the Young Farmer program (ages 18-35)
D Attending a meeting of the Associated Women who have a mission of communicating the story of NH agriculture
D The best information and advice on insurance for your farm as a result of Farm Bureau’s special relationship with American National and the relationship available to you through Farm Bureau with their NH agents
Make sure you are receiving and making us of the following:
D The Communicator, our member publication bringing you Farm Bureau and agricultural news. As a member your farm business is entitled to free listing under: Ag Services, Fruits & Vegetables, Hay, Meat Producers, or Other Edibles, and to free advertisements in the Farmer to Farmer Classifieds section
D Our weekly e-newsletter The Post, containing a listing of upcoming agricultural events and workshops
D The Friday Review, our public policy newsletter, published on Friday’s when the NH Legislature is in session
D Coming this winter, our ag policy podcast “The APP”
D Access to other information published for members periodically such as the New Farmer Toolkit, containing pertinent information on running a farm business in New Hampshire
NHFB Member Offers
American National Insurance Special Rate Plans for NHFB Members
Farmer to Farmer Classifieds
Connecting NHFB members! See what others have to sell AND what you want to buy!
NHFB’s Farmers’ Market is a free classified ad service to all NHFB members. If you have something to sell, buy or trade, this is your place to get noticed. Ads can be emailed to editor@nhfarmbureau.org. Want more information? Call us at 603-224-1934.
FOR SALE
FOR SALE: Oasis Springs Farm in Nashua, NH is currently selling their 3 Shipping containers set up for growing hydroponic leafy greens. One unit is a 2015 Freight Farm LGM and the other 2 are custom builds with horizontal NFT trays designed for high volume growth. For details check out our FB page or contact Chris@OasisSpringsFarm.com or (603) 521-2003.
FOR SALE: Livestock Guardian Dog pups. Born & raised with livestock. Great Pyranees-MaremmaAnatolian. From working parents. 1st shots, wormed, Health Certificate & booklet on raising & working with LGDs incl. Ready to bond to your livestock. Also a couple young adults. Call Gordon at 603-490-0899
FOR SALE: John Deere 4030 tractor with loader, $15,000. Call Alan Savage at 603-788-4484.
FOR SALE: 3 Tunis ram lambs, 1 born 12/23, 2 born 3/24. Weaned. Can be registered if wanted. 4-H & FFA discount. $150 each or $400 for all. Delivery possible. Phone Deb Robie at 603-747-3869 or email wehunt4@ myfairpoint.net.
FOR SALE: IH Model 27 Baler with bale thrower. Always under cover. For parts only. $500. Call Wayne at 603225-9656 Concord, NH.
FOR SALE: Irrigation Pipe - Hook and Latch, 2” pipe –3000 feet (100 pieces,* some with sprinklers and 8” risers) $1.50 per ft, 6” pipe – 800 feet (26 pieces) $5.00 per ft, (2) Nelson 100 guns 24 degree angle – 1” nozzle $500.00 each. Call Wayne at 603-225-9656 Concord, NH.
FOR SALE: Maple Equipment: SS (good) $500. Gold Metal Ice Shaver for clean snow (good) $300. Maple Miscellaneous -
12 qt. (good) $75 New Maple Plastic Jugs (full case only) - 3.4 oz. NH $50/case. Maple Tree Farm, Concord - 603-224-9548 evenings.
FOR SALE: Farm Raised Red Deer / Elk Crosses for Sale 13 animals – Breeding stock bucks & does available or for meat. Call for pricing. Maple Ridge Farm - Wentworth, Contact Lance Rand at 603-726-1984.
FOR SALE: Loader to fit 1950 John Deere Model A tractor, call Alan Savage at 603-788-4484.
FOR SALE: Farmall Super C. Fully restored - $6,000. Boscawen at 603-796-2779.
FOR SALE: John Deere – 47 Quick Hitch Snow Thrower. For M700 riding mowers and up. Excellent condition$1800. Boscawen at 603-796-2779.
FOR SALE: Hardee long reach cutter - $9,000. Concord. Call Robert at 603-224-3036.
FOR SALE: Honda Brush cutter-Trimmer HHT35S. This is a professional commercial quality heavy duty Brush cutter/weed trimmer. Handlebar type, 4 cycle engine
WANTED: 20-25 acres of hay/crop land (open to more or less) and located somewhere near I-91/I-89 or other reliable access roads. We are open to NH or VT. We are open to agriculturally conserved land. Our hope is to have a productive field that we can responsibly manage to meet our hay needs as we continue to grow. If you know of any fields that may be a good fit, please reach out to us! Call Seth at 603-715-0067 or email mooserunfarm@gmail.com.
WANTED: Cheesemakers, butter or yogurt processors interested in grass fed jersey milk. Farmington, NH Contact Bob at 603-834-3240.
WANTED: Green thumbs wanted! *I am currently restoring a 200 year-old 15 acre farm in Bow, NH. The land has been cleared, stumped, graded and is ready for farming. Looking to do a co-op farm and manager/ partner. Currently have 2 acres devoted to High Bush Blueberries and 1000 Christmas trees. 10 acres available for 30x20 garden plots or 1/4 acre parcels or more. Please contact Rodger Bruce Letendre at 603867-8067.
HELP WANTED
Part-time paid work at Yak farm. Paid at $20 per hour. Must have experience with livestock. Can lead to a live-in situation. Call Trisha at 603-303trisha@woodsleyventures.com.
Seeking motivated person to join our Certified Organic vegetable farm and kitchen. Experience with mechanical, agricultural, sales, and kitchen protocols a plus! Pay negotiable based on experience and interest. Base pay $14/hr. Drivers license required. Strafford, NH - text John at 603-781-2931.
Organic Farming, Soil Health, and Environmental Sustainability
The Positive Impacts of Organic Farming on Soil Health and Environmental Sustainability
Organic farming has gained momentum in recent years as a sustainable approach to agriculture that prioritizes the health of the ecosystem A key component of this practice is the emphasis on soil health Healthy soil is essential for food production, environmental preservation, and combating climate change Organic farming, by using natural inputs and sustainable management practices, directly improves soil health, which in turn leads to long-term agricultural productivity and numerous environmental benefits
Soil based ecosystems need soil to act as a medium for plant growth, a water regulator, a recycler of nutrients, and a habitat for countless organisms like microbes and earthworms that enhance its structure and fertility
Agriculture depends on healthy soil for sustainable production Many farming practices, including the use of synthetic chemicals and monoculture, have been proven to degrade soil and harm ecosystems over time
Organic farming focuses on practices that support and enhance natural soil processes, contributing to longterm soil fertility and a more robust ecosystem
Organic Farming’s Positive Impact on Soil Health
Organic farming enhances soil fertility by incorporating organic matter like compost, manure, and cover crops
This improves soil structure, increases water and nutrient retention, and promotes healthy microbial activity, which naturally converts organic matter into plant-available nutrients Additional practices such as crop rotation, and the use of nitrogen-fixing legumes restore soil fertility without synthetic fertilizers
Organic methods also strengthen soil structure, helping it resist erosion and retain moisture Techniques like cover cropping and diverse rotations protect soil yearround By fostering a rich ecosystem of organisms microbes, earthworms, and beneficial insects organic farming boosts nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and resilience, while reducing the need for chemical inputs
Reduced Soil Contamination
Organic farming eliminates the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can have long-term negative effects on soil health While chemical inputs can build up in the soil, killing beneficial organisms, altering soil pH, and leading to chemical runoff that pollutes waterways, organic farming reduces the risk of soil contamination by using natural pest control methods, such as companion planting, biological pest predators, and natural pesticides like neem oil
How Soil Health Contributes to Productivity and Environmental Improvement
Healthy soil has far-reaching benefits for both agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability When soil health is prioritized, it becomes more fertile, resilient, and productive, which leads to better crop yields over time Healthy soil holds more water, reducing the need for irrigation, and has better nutrient availability, which allows plants to grow more vigorously
By enhancing soil health, organic farming increases longterm agricultural productivity Soils rich in organic matter can hold more water and nutrients, making crops more resistant to drought and nutrient deficiencies Improved soil structure also allows roots to penetrate more deeply, accessing water and nutrients more effectively As a result, organic farms often exhibit greater resilience to environmental stressors, which can lead to more stable yields and increased viability over time
One of the most significant environmental benefits of healthy soil is its ability to sequester carbon Soils with high organic matter content store more carbon, which helps mitigate climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere Organic farming, through practices like cover cropping, composting, and reduced tillage, promotes carbon sequestration, helping to fight global warming while simultaneously improving soil health
Healthy soils are more porous, which allows them to absorb and retain water more effectively This reduces the need for irrigation, conserves water resources, and helps protect against droughts Furthermore, soils with good structure and organic matter content are less prone to erosion and nutrient leaching, which means that fewer pollutants end up in waterways, leading to improved water quality and ecosystem health
The positive impacts of organic farming on soil health are undeniable By prioritizing natural processes and avoiding synthetic inputs, organic farming promotes soil fertility, enhances biodiversity, and improves the resilience of crops Healthy soil, in turn, leads to increased agricultural productivity, and greater environmental sustainability As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity, adopting organic practices that nurture the soil will be crucial for creating a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system
Transition to Organic Partnership Program
The Transition to Organic Partership Program (TOPP) offers a free Mentorship program connecting transitioning farmers with experienced organic farmers who provide practical advice and support to mentees
The program opens the door for knowledge exchange and provides valuable insights into the challenges and successes of organic farming Mentorship can be particularly beneficial during the early stages of the transition, helping farmers troubleshoot issues and refine their practices The TOPP Mentor will work with a transitioning farmer to create their Organic System Plan, which is required for certification The Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Hampshire (NOFA-NH) administers the USDA TOPP program in NH and can provide additional technical assistance to transitioning farmers Interested in learning more?
Contact NOFA-NH at info@nofanh org, 603-225-5022 or the TOPP Coordinator at teresa@nofanh org to learn more Find more information at nofanh org/topp
Local Products Featured at the NH Farm Bureau Deerfield Fair Dairy Booth!
At the Deerfield Fair in September, NHFB showcased local dairy products at the Dairy Booth! The booth included milk from Contoocook Creamery and ice cream from Granite State Candy Shoppe. Thank you to both of these amazing local businesses for creating quality products for fairgoers to enjoy!
The booth’s success relies on a dedicated manager and local non-profits who act as the “scooping groups.” NHFB would like to acknowledge the following groups and thank them for their time and service:
• Coe-Brown FFA
• Coe-Brown FCCLA
• UNH Dairy Club
• Highland Riders 4-H
• UNH CREAM
• Canterbury Elementary School PTO
• SST FFA
• Changing Lives Equine Center
• And an extra big thank you to booth manager Amy Matarozzo!
The NHFB Dairy Booth recruits local non-profit groups to serve ice cream and frappes at the Deerfield Fair, such as students from UNH CREAM!
NH Green Pastures Award Presented
to Bohanan Farm/Contoocook Creamery
The farm is home to 120 milk cows, producing more than 16,000 8oz. servings of milk every day
In 1907 Lester Bohanan bought a farm on the banks of the Contoocook River in Contoocook. Today over a hundred years later the third, fourth and fifth generations of Lester’s family are still farming the same land.
Bohanan Farm has grown and changed through the generations. Today, Heather Bohanan Robertson, her husband Jamie, and their three grown children Si, Nate, and Bram own the Farm. The family operates the farm with help from our employees Wendy, Paul, Cathen, Dennis, Jon, Belinda, Sarah (Heather’s sister) Ben, Pierce, DJ, Melanie, and our herd veterinarian Dr. Megan Robertson (Si’s wife).
The farm now consists of more than 440 acres of land nestled between three rivers: the Warner River to the west, the Contoocook River to the south, and the Blackwater River to the north. The farm also rents another three hundred acres in Contoocook, Concord, and Webster.
The farm is home to 120 milk cows, producing more than 16,000 8oz. servings of milk every day. Bohanan Farm strives to be a modern dairy farm that produces milk of the highest quality with the most efficient and environmentally sound practices available. The farm works closely with a nutritionist and veterinarian to formulate a balanced diet that blends the home-grown grasses and corn with other nutrients and grains to support the cows’ health and production. Healthy cows are one of the most important aspects of Bohanan farm. It takes happy, healthy cows to achieve the number one goal of producing milk of the highest quality.
With the fifth generation joining the family business the farm needed to grow. After much thought and research the family decided to add direct marketing to the farm business in 2011.
The farm now has an on-farm milk processing plant that pasteurizes and bottles all the milk produced. Today Contoocook Creamery markets milk, beef, and eggs from Conway to Billerica with over 150 retail partners. Vegetables are being added to the farm mix and are offered at the self-service farm store.
The Robertson family is honored to win the Green Pastures award for New Hampshire this year.
NH Green Pastures Award was presented to Bohanan Farm/ Contoocook Creamery this year. (Left to right) UNHCE Dairy Production State Specialist Sarah Allen, NHDAMF Assistant Commissioner Josh Marshall, and members of the Robertson family: Ambrin Robertson, Bram Robertson, Agnes Robertson, Jamie Robertson, Heather Robertson, Nate Robertson, Si Robertson, and Dr. Megan Robertson. Courtesy photo.
ATFS Names Davises 2024 Outstanding Tree Farmers for Northeast Region
The American Tree Farm System® (ATFS) has selected Ann and Marc Davis of Wilmot as its 2024 Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year for the Northeast Region. The region extends from Maine to Maryland.
In 2022, the Davises were New Hampshire’s Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year. Established in 1941, the ATFS is the oldest family forest certification program in the United States. ATFS certification, which is internationally recognized, works to sustain forests, watershed and healthy wildlife habitats.
“The dedication Ann and Marc have shown in making sure Woods Without Gile is a model Tree Farm is inspiring,” said Greg Jordan, chairman of the N.H. Tree Farm Executive Committee. “Their thoughtfulness over two decades as they worked to achieve their goals exemplifies the Tree Farm program spirit.”
Straddling Springfield and Wilmot, the Davises’ 500-acre tree farm, Woods Without Gile, is a working forest that implements the four pillars of the Tree Farm program: wood, water, wildlife and recreation. The Woods Without Gile has been a certified NH Tree Farm since 2009.
“When we purchased the property in 2002, the forest was dense and had been severely damaged by the 1998 ice storm,” said Ann Davis. “Working with Tim Wallace, a licensed New Hampshire forester, our goal was to improve the forest by extricating some of the damaged hardwood. This work has allowed existing conifers to regenerate and flourish.
Ann, left, and Marc Davis of Wilmot recently were named the 2024 Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year for the Northeast Region. They own and manage a 500-acre woodlot in Springfield and Wilmot. Courtesy photo.
“Over the years, we have connected with more than 1,000 people through more than 25 tours and workshops at the property,” Ann Davis said. “Some of these visitors have purchased woodlots of their own and become Tree Farmers.
“In 2023, during a survey of nesting birds, a professional biologist found 72 species nesting on the property,” she added. “He will do a follow-up survey in 2026 to determine what impact a timber harvest will have on populations of Eastern Wood Pee-Wee and Wood Thrush” Marc Davis added, “One objective we’ve had is to expand habitat diversity for wildlife, including deer, moose and birds. To accomplish this, we’ve planted trees and fruity shrubs, inventoried snags and downed woody materials that provide food and shelter for a variety of animals and birds. We’ve also created a meadow near an historic cellar hole and completed patch cuts that have created foraging sites for beaver.”
Woods Without Gile’s wetlands include a five-acre beaver pond and associated sedge meadow, two streams with several beaver dams, sphagnum moss bogs, vernal pools, an upland red maple swamp, and intermittent and year-round streams. It is highly rated for habitat diversity on New Hampshire’s Wildlife Action Plan.
The Davises keep Woods Without Gile open to the public for cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, hunting, horseback riding, snow shoeing and other non-motorized, non-wheeled recreation. To help facilitate these activities while keeping the forest healthy, the Davises established eight miles of trails and installed six permanent bridges over stream crossings.
Proceeds from timber harvests on the property have helped establish the trails, pay property taxes, purchase skidder bridges, install gates and make other improvements.
As is required for all certified tree farms, a written forest management plan for Woods Without Gile is in place. It was updated in 2022. With a long-range goal of ensuring that their Tree Farm remains a working forest in perpetuity, the Davises placed a conservation easement on the property that is held by Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust. They purchased their property in part because it abuts another protected parcel, the 6,725-acre John F. Gile Memorial State Forest, which is owned and managed by the N.H. Division of Forests and Lands.
The Davises learned about managing their woodlot by attending multiple educational workshops, many of which were offered by the NH Timberland Owners Association (NHTOA), NH Tree Farm Program or UNH Extension. They are long-time members of N.H. Farm Bureau Federation and the NHTOA. Ann Davis served on the NHTOA board from 2005 to 2013 and was board president from 2010 to 2012. 1,450 certified Tree Farms, totaling 500,000 acres, participate in the NH Tree Farm Program. N.H. Division of Forests and Lands, the Granite State Division of the Society of American Foresters, the Society for the Protection of N.H. Forests, the NHTOA and UNH Extension sponsor the NH Tree Farm Program. It is based on the ATFS tenets and is operated by volunteers through the N.H. Tree Farm Executive Committee.
For more details about the N.H. Tree Farm Program, visit nhtreefarm.org.
It’s been busy this fall here at Ag in the Classroom. Last year at this time, I was working hard to set up meetings with teachers across the state. Coming off the summer where teachers are appropriately so neglecting their school emails, I was starting to crack the code into making school contact and I was chasing down whatever leads to wherever they might lead.
This year has been quite different, finding myself with a schedule that is already chock full with meetings, presentations, and educator meetups, as well as invitations to participate in various groups in and around agriculture here in NH. Just yesterday I was both helping prepare for the fall New Hampshire Science Teachers Association as board liaison for the organization as well as preparing to present on the value of co-teaching with the focus on horticultural science and family and consumer science. These are things I was just looking ahead as potential opportunities and now they make up portions of my daily life.
As a person that always needs something to do, I’m happy to be this busy. But it does make me wonder what things might look like at this time next year. With the growth I’ve seen in just one year, what happens if the trend continues, or even flourishes more? I can’t say.
But what I can say is I’ll cross that bridge when we get there. Hopefully I’ll be able to open the schedule to take on more as I get more seasoned and efficient, learning how to streamline the work I’ve been doing. I know I’ll be right flustered if I can’t. But it does present a challenge and to be truthful, I like a challenge. Gives me something to look forward to with new tasks on the horizon. Forces me to re-evaluate what I’m doing and why. And that retrospect is important when you’re seeking to expand opportunity. And I believe that’s exactly what we are doing.
Mike Smith, NH Agriculture in the Classroom, nhaitc@nhfarmbureau.org
POST-HARVEST from pg. 14
Dumpling’ are known for their high sugar content at harvest.
Kabocha and buttercup squash mature between 60–70 days after fruit set but can be harvested as early as 40 days, if necessary, especially if vines die and the risk of sunscald increases. These types have high starch levels that convert to sugars during curing, allowing them to reach peak eating quality 1-2 months after harvest.
Butternut squash also matures in about 60–70 days but requires longer storage to develop its flesh color and sugar content. With proper curing and long-term storage, butternut varieties can last 4-6 months.
Recently, the ‘Tetsukabuto’ hybrid—a cross between kabocha and butternut—has gained popularity, adding a fourth category. It’s an interspecific species being bred and studied at
UNH that combines kabocha’s eating quality with butternut’s disease resistance and long storage life.
“The ‘Tetsukabuto’ hybrid combines the best traits of both species—sweet, nutty flavor with exceptional storage potential, lasting up six months or longer under proper conditions,” said Hernandez. “Additionally, it produces high yields, is resistant to common squash pests like vine borers and diseases like powdery mildew and it remains productive even under stressful conditions, offering a reliable annual crop.”
“All of these factors make it an ideal and dependable crop for New England growers to grow and sell,” he added.
For information about licensing UNH-developed cucurbits varieties, please contact unh. innovation@unh.edu
Join us for Coffee and Conversation on Dec 5th at the NHFB office in Concord! We’ll supply the coffee and breakfast treats, you bring the conversation. Meet the staff, chat with Rob Johnson, connect with old friends and meet new ones! Farm Bureau is a family of members!
Thursday, December 5, 2024 9:00-11:00am Stop in when you can!
295 Sheep Davis Road, Concord, NH
CTA: For the latest on UNH’s cucurbits breeding and research program, visit unhcucurbits.org
Cucurbits stored at UNH’s Macfarlane Research Greenhouses in Durham, N.H. Photo courtesy of UNH
MembersPlease Tell
Source: Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association
6 chicken breast halves, cleaned and tenders removed Wild Rice and Cranberry Stuffing (see below)
Egg wash, (3 eggs in bowl, beaten with fork)
Flour, w/salt and pepper added to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Wild Rice and Cranberry Stuffing
3 cups cooked wild rice
1 cup bread crumbs
1 cup sweetened dried cranberries
½ cup chopped walnuts
½ cup fresh chopped apples (peeled and cored)
½ cup melted butter
¼ cup orange juice
¼ cup cranberry juice cocktail
Heat oven to 350°F.
With a sharp knife, cut a pocket down the side of the chicken breast about ¾ of the way through. Stuff with Wild Rice and Cranberry Stuffing (see method below).
Heat large skilled over med-high heat for one minute, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Dip stuffed chicken breast in egg wash, dredge through flour.
Place stuffed chicken breast in hot skillet. Brown stuffed chicken breast for one minute on each side, remove from skillet and place in shallow baking dish.
Bake in 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven and slice each breast crosswise about ½ inches thick.
Place on serving platter over greens.
Wild Rice and Cranberry Stuffing
Combine all ingredients in mixing bowl and mix well.
After stuffing chicken breasts, freeze remaining stuffing for future use.
Speaker Join Us for a Tour of Spaulding Hall Research Facilities
Hear from the Farmers’ Voice in Washington, DCAmerican Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall at the NH Farm Bureau Annual Meeting!
Zippy Duvall has served as president of the American Farm Bureau Federation since 2016. He is a thirdgeneration farmer from Georgia. He owns a beef cow herd, raises broiler chickens and grows his own hay, all while continuing to restore the land he inherited. Through his leadership as AFBF president, Duvall has helped to shape a new farm bill, defeat misguided regulations, shepherd new trade agreements and ensure farmers and ranchers are supported through natural disasters and the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hear more about his experiences as a farmer, his role as AFBF President, and get inspiration from the national leader of our “Farm Bureau Family!”
President Duvall will address the attendees following the banquet lunch on November 9th at the NHFB Annual Meeting.
BIOSCIENCE BOON
Renovated and expanded Spaulding
Excerpt from Fall 2024 edition of THRIVE, News from the UNH College of Life Sciences and Agriculture: Renovated and expanded Spaulding Hall fully ready to welcome students
As part of COLSA’s commitment to our students and faculty and our mission to enhance lives and livelihoods in New Hampshire and beyond, in the summer of 2019 the university broke ground on the Spaulding Biosciences Project, a $95.5 million endeavor that included a 47,000-square-foot addition to Spaulding Hall followed by a full renovation of the original 83,000-square-foot building. This major project was completed in June 2024.
Biological science research can lay claim to many of the 20th and 21st centuries’ most important scientific achievements: antibiotics, widespread use of vaccines, recombinant DNA, stem cells, and the sequencing of the human genome, to name a few. Looking ahead to a future shaped by increasingly complex global health and environmental challenges, we will continue to depend on bioscience research for the breakthroughs that protect and enhance our quality of life.
In recognition of this reality, COLSA is continuously investing in both our faculty’s capacity to do high-impact research and our students’ access to leadingedge technology and meaningful, real-world skill building. The work undertaken by COLSA faculty and graduates in the biological sciences makes significant contributions in many areas, including human and animal health, research, environmental management and conservation, agriculture, biotechnology, business and industry, education, and politics and policy.
Now, Spaulding Hall not only provides a wide range of stateof- the-art spaces for advanced teaching and research, it also ably supports two of the College’s central goals: expanding internship and research partnerships with the public and private sectors in New Hampshire and the continued development of a strong workforce pipeline that both prioritizes student goals and meets the growing demands for expertise in the life sciences across the state and region.
“The renovation and expansion of Spaulding Hall presents a tremendous opportunity for our students and faculty to continue to grow their impact,” says Anthony S. Davis, dean of the college. “The intellectual horsepower across our community will take these expanded and upgraded labs and classrooms and put them to use in addressing the contemporary critical questions that face society, from human well-being through ecosystem health and everything in between.”
