February 2018 Issue PDF

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The Acres U.S.A. February 2018 issue; Vol. 48, No. 2; contains the following: FEATURES Earth-Restorative Fiber Productionby Barbara Berst AdamsWhether it’s global fashion brands or local blue jeans, current and aspiring eco-fiber farmers have a growing network of organizations supporting their markets and education as we move toward a more beneficial fiber and textile industry. A Blooming Businessby Tamara ScullyThe beautiful peonies at Swenson Gardens — where 10,000 to 15,000 peonies are planted at any given time, plus many thousands of seedlings — make it a fantastic site to behold in bloom. Forest-Fed Hogsby Joshua Burman ThayerIn a quiet holler of rural West Virginia Dr. Chuck Talbott is focused on demonstrating the potential of sustainable hog production in the central forest region of Appalachia. 2017 Acres U.S.A. Conferenceby Tara MaxwellAttendees from across the United States and around the globe converged at the 2017 Acres U.S.A. Conference in Columbus, Ohio, for an invaluable learning and networking opportunity. Organic Seed Productionby Tracy FrischBefore organic farmers get deep into seed production, they should try to gain some insight into economic considerations from growers already in the business. Harvesting Fertility from the Seaby Francesca CamilloFind out how one company is using traditional methods to gather wild kelp and turn it into high-quality livestock products. Organic Grape Solutionsby Rocky WomackLoving Cup Vineyard & Winery is working in conjunction with Virginia Tech to trial new methods for protecting organic wine grapes from pests, disease. Top 10 Tools for Eco-Farmersby Andrew FrenchWisconsin farmer Andrew French discusses his top tool picks for for small-scale farmers and homesteaders. Interview: Steven StollAppalachia: A History RememberedHistorian, author Steven Stoll provides an in-depth look at the struggle of the Appalachian people and their battle for autonomy, land. DEPARTMENTS View from the CountryMonthly musings from Acres U.S.A.’s publisher. Letters to the EditorReaders share their thoughts on past articles and words of encouragement. Opinion: Organic Standards: What’s Next?Rather than mourn the demise of the USDA organic standards or fruitlessly complain about how the USDA Organic label is being undermined by corrupt corporations, Ronnie Cummins advocates for a new complementary certification. Eco-UpdateNews in brief from around the world on developments in eco-farming technology, organic food and farming, human health and vital environmental issues. Science on Your SideAcres U.S.A. highlights recent research and what it means for you. The Harvest Table: Desert Sentinel: Saguaro CactusEvery summer the cactus blossoms bloom and their white flowers turn into sweet fruit that begs to be picked before the rains come and make the fruits inedible. Stock & Flock: Fields of GreenIreland is a land known for its beautiful green grass and fertile pastures. Its farmers use successful economic farming practices tried and tested by generations of farmers. Small-Scale Success: Urban FarmingA well-planned urban farm can thrive by matching the correct mix of crops to the myriad markets available in an urban setting. Reviews & RecommendationsFrom in-depth book reviews to innovative websites and beyond, here’s what’s on our radar. Marketplace Classifieds Show more