Getting a Handle on Geese and Turkeys

Last night at the directors' meeting of the Vegetable Growers Association of New Jersey, there was a discussion about the growing issue of damage to crops by geese and turkeys.
-- Rick VanVranken

Aphids found in lettuce field and pepper transplants

On Tuesday, May 3 aphids were found in lettuce fields in South Eastern Gloucester County. On the same day aphids were found on pepper transplants in a greenhouse in the same region. High temperatures on Tuesday increased aphid activity.  Heavy rains the next day reduced populations in the field and cooler temperatures should slow aphids in the short term. Monitor fields for aphids and other pests brought on by warmer temperatures.

Expanded Label for Presidio

The EPA has expanded the label for Presidio (fluopicolide, FRAC code 43) for use on Brassica Leafy Vegetables, Root and Tuber Vegetables, Potatoes, and Carrots. This Supplemental label also reduced the rotational interval for wheat from 18 months to 30 days.
Presidio Fungicide Supplemental Label
Andy Wyenandt

Food safety auditing in produce- is it working?

Due to a proactive industry response, including training by Rutgers Cooperative Extension and a model third party audit system developed with the NJ Dept of Agriculture, Garden State growers seem to be ahead of the curve in adopting and understanding the importance of food safety practices. Other producers may be struggling a bit more with the concepts, as indicated by a safefoodblog post forwarded by FL Ag Agent Gene McAvoy.
--Rick VanVranken

Scholarship Opportunity for HS Senior to Study Agriculture

The Greater Vineland Chamber of Commerce offers a scholarship to graduating high school seniors pursuing further studies in ag related fields. The fund was created from proceeds of their Annual Jersey Fresh Festival and continues to be supported by their Annual Dandelion Dinner. I don't see any residency restrictions, so it appears open to anyone. You can download the application here.--Rick VanVranken

Pesticide Container Recycling - Hammonton, May 6

Karen Kritz of the NJ Dept of Ag sent this reminder about pesticide container recycling at Helena Chemical Co, Hammonton, next Friday, May 6. -- Rick VanVranken

Think you'd like to try direct marketing?

You can identify every
market in the Garden
State by clicking on
this map.

There are 97 community farmers' markets in New Jersey according to the USDA's Ag Marketing Service National Farmers' Market Directory. Most are looking for new farmers each season. If you've been considering selling directly to consumers but don't know if you're cut out for it, farmers' markets offer low cost opportunities to give it a try.

Rick VanVranken