Looking for the 2023 February PDF? Click here to access the 2023 February digital issue. February 2019 Acres U.S.A., The Voice of Eco-Agriculture, February 2019 | Issue #572 Copyright 2019, Downloadable Copy (23.6 MB), 98 pages. A link to download the PDF will be emailed to you after purchase. FEATURES A Farmer Walks into a Restaurantby Leigh GlennIf you are considering moving into wholesaling, this article provides key points from several farmers, from setting prices to successfully approaching business owners and keeping local chefs happy. Agricultural Advice from Warren Buffettby Leah SmithFarmer Leah Smith dissects Warren Buffett’s “10 Rules for Success” and illustrates how they apply to any business, even the business of operating a sustainable farm. Making Pawpaws Profitableby Brian AllnuttIn the eastern United States, the pawpaw’s biggest selling point might be its connection to our native ecologies and local foodways. Find out if growing this distinctive fruit might work for your farm. The Humus Masterclassby Jon FrankUsing corn as an example, consultant Jon Frank explains humus versus organic matter and how to keep your crops and soil vibrant. Connecting People to Foodby Lauren TurnerSmall-scale farms cannot compete with larger farms on price alone, but they can compete favorably on freshness, flavor and variety. This is where direct sales can pay off. The Soil Crisisby Anneliese AbbottThis article is the third in a series focused on the history of organic agriculture in America and those who played a prominent role in shaping the movement. Managing For the Future, Todayby Tara MaxwellAttendees from across the United States and around the globe converged at the 2018 Acres U.S.A. Eco-Ag Conference and Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky, for an invaluable learning and networking opportunity. Tapping Mountain Forestsby Emily SidesEmily Sides provides a look at the maple syrup producers of Virginia’s Highland County and a popular agritourism event that draws more than 50,000 people annually. Pursuing New Opportunitiesby Rocky WomackTransitions don’t just happen in big businesses. Small farmers must occasionally readjust their thinking and find a new direction. That’s what happened for Becky and Lawrence Latané, owners and operators of Blenheim Organic Gardens in Westmoreland County, Virginia. Interview: Eric Holt-GiménezThe Agrarian TransitionAdvocate, teacher, researcher and author Eric Holt-Giménez discusses the global food system, economics and peasant farmers. 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: Not All It’s Cooked Up to BeThe Impossible Burger sizzles like a burger, bleeds like a burger and tastes like a burger (well, almost). But other than that, this new burger barn burner has nothing to do with real meat. Eco-UpdateNews in brief from around the world on developments in eco-farming technology, organic food and farming, human health and vital environmental issues. Mind Your BusinessThis monthly column focuses on the ins and outs of the business side of farming. Science on Your SideAcres U.S.A. highlights recent research and what it means for you. The Harvest Table: Bountiful BeansThe multi-step process of making chocolate is a long affair — an art form as much as a process. The first step involves cutting the ripe fruit from the cocoa tree, but there is more to the story. Stock & Flock: Maximize On-Farm ProfitCalifornia rancher Spencer Smith discusses profit per acre using different sized cattle as a real-world example. Health & Healing: The Clinical Impact of Magnesium DeficiencyDr. Michael John Badanek explains that magnesium is critical for the proper function of hundreds of enzymes in the human body, many of which supply energy to the brain as well as the body. Reviews & RecommendationsFrom in-depth book reviews to innovative websites and beyond, here’s what’s on our radar. Marketplace Classifieds Eco-MeetingsWe let you know when and where exciting eco-farming events are happening. Meet an Eco-FarmerGet to know fellow innovative farmers putting ecologically correct production principles to work, resulting in profitable, sustainable operations.