Ag News Roundup for April 26, 2020
In today’s Ag News Roundup, farmworker health and safety always a priority, the long-term concerns over COVID-19, Oregon farmer penalized $100,000, OSU Master Gardener program sees a dramatic increase in enrollment, and OSU helps small farmers understand the Oregon Farm Direct Marketing Law.
Farmworker Health and Safety a Priority
From the Washington State Farm Bureau, farmers throughout the state are adding to their usual health and safety measures by installing handwashing stations in the field as well as limiting personal interactions.
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Farmers Concerned over COVID-19 Impact
Like all Americans, farmers are worried about the lasting impact the coronavirus will have on the U.S. economy. Additionally, those in the ag industry are looking ahead to the next generation of growers and livestock raisers amid the current crisis, hoping for a quick recovery.
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Oregon Farmer Penalized $100,000
In a legal Clean Water Act settlement, an Oregon farmer is before forced to pay $100,000 over complaints from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA claimed the farmer had unlawfully reinforced the banks of the North Santiam River.
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Thousands Register for OSU Master Gardener Courses
In the weeks since COVID-19 has kept families at home, the Oregon State University Extension Services Master Gardener online course program has seen a dramatic increase in popularity. Nearly 1,000 people per day signed up for one of the famous vegetable gardening courses from March 20 to April 1, 2020.
Helping Small Farmers Sell Produce All Year Long
To help small farm owners understand the Oregon Farm Direct Marketing Law (OFDML) and help with food preservation techniques, the Oregon State University Extension Service has released four video workshops. Food preservation topics include water bath canning, fermented foods, dehydrated foods, and acidified foods.