Monthly Archives: January 2008

One of our handsome Muscovy drakes. All of the ducks walk around with mudballs on top of their beaks, a consequence of their rummaging through the cows’ bedding pack. They clean themselves up either in the creek, or in a … Continue reading →

Food for the Future : Organic farming takes root in post-bomb Bali“Amidst the hubbub of support for large-scale industrialisation of agriculture, there were also smaller voices talking about alternative approaches to agricultural development: returning to traditional crops, locally-based sustainable development, … Continue reading →

The Iowa Freezeless Yard Hydrant, made by Woodford Manufacturing since 1929.

As I said yesterday, I’ve attended the Practical Farmers of Iowa Conference the past 2 days. I’m back to the farm now, tired but with a head swimming full of thoughts. Where to start? The morning began with 3 keynote … Continue reading →

In the Farm Bill, a Creature from the Black Lagoon?“…you may be surprised to learn that your tax dollars have helped pave the way for the growth of these livestock megafarms by paying farmers to deal with the mountains of … Continue reading →

Today I’m reporting live off-the farm, at the 2008 Practical Farmers of Iowa conference. This year’s theme is “Come to the Table”, with tomorrow’s keynote speakers being farmers who are meeting the demand for grassfed, organic and local foods. This … Continue reading →

Countdown to the 2008 farm bill : Part II“A livestock title for fair and competitive markets” ***** Parents’ project keeps villages sustainable and son’s memory alive“The SAM project, which promotes small-scale agricultural projects to benefit school-aged children in southern Zambia, … Continue reading →

Remember that gorgeous rooster from this post? And how I said he had a twin? How many of him do you see in this photo? There are 5 – quintuplets! No wonder he seems to be everywhere! These are all … Continue reading →

Bill aims to put more farm-fresh foods on school lunch menus“Legislation to be proposed in Olympia next week could catapult Washington to the forefront of national efforts to get more farm-fresh, locally grown food into lunches at schools and at … Continue reading →

Monday when I was out for my noon walk, I came upon this scene in the cattle lot: Do you see what I see? Heifers with their rear ends turned towards Mr. Bull, and Mr. Bull looking oh-so-interested. Do you … Continue reading →