Exploring Sustainable Farming Projects in the North Central Region

Learn about the diverse range of sustainable farming projects supported by the NCR-SARE program, promoting environmentally friendly and economically viable agricultural practices.

Exploring Sustainable Farming Projects in the North Central Region

The North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (NCR-SARE) program, funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), is actively supporting various sustainable farming projects. These initiatives aim to promote environmentally friendly and economically viable agricultural practices. In this article, we will delve into the Farming Matters video series, which showcases a diverse range of projects, including farmer-led initiatives, research endeavors, and educational programs.

Exploring Sustainable Farming Projects in the North Central Region - 675207154

( Credit to: Canr )

The Farming Matters Video Series

The Farming Matters video series is a compilation of 18 videos that highlight the innovative and sustainable farming projects supported by the NCR-SARE program. These videos cover a wide array of farm enterprises, ranging from urban farming and cattle rearing to corn cultivation and chestnut production.

One of the featured videos explores a unique project conducted at the University of Michigan Campus Farm. This initiative involved raising mushrooms in unused space under transplant tables. Despite challenging conditions such as excessive heat, dryness, and sunlight exposure, the project successfully experimented with methods and timelines for growing mushrooms. To share their findings and offer tips to local farmers, the team created a zine, a small self-published booklet.

Key Projects and Topics

The Farming Matters video series encompasses various projects that shed light on sustainable agricultural practices. Here are some notable examples:

  • Soul Food Project’s Urban CSA with Danielle Guerin: This project focuses on establishing a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program in urban areas, ensuring access to fresh and healthy produce.
  • Growing and Distilling Heirloom Corn with the Glazik Brothers: The Glazik Brothers’ project explores the cultivation and distillation of heirloom corn, preserving traditional varieties and promoting sustainable farming methods.
  • No-Till Mexica Maize with Pantaleon Florez: Pantaleon Florez’s initiative emphasizes the benefits of no-till farming techniques in cultivating Mexica maize, an ancient corn variety.
  • Industrial Hemp and the Kansas Hemp Consortium with Sarah Stephens: This project delves into the cultivation and utilization of industrial hemp, highlighting its potential economic and environmental benefits.

Support and Resources

The NCR-SARE program offers a range of resources for farmers and agriculture educators, including books, bulletins, and videos. Additionally, they provide grant opportunities such as Farmer Rancher Grants, Research and Education Grants, and Youth Educator Grants. Michigan SARE also offers grants and funding opportunities, including the Michigan SARE Travel Scholarship and support for organizing sustainable agriculture workshops and conferences.

Applying for Grants

Prospective grant applicants can seek guidance and support from the Michigan SARE coordinators, Sarah Fronczak and Katie Brandt, as well as the Tribal SARE coordinator, Emily Proctor. These coordinators are available to review proposals, provide advice, and assist farmers, educators, and students in applying for NCR-SARE grants. Grant-writing support is offered free of charge for all six North Central SARE grants and Michigan SARE mini-grants.

Conclusion

The Farming Matters video series provides a valuable platform to showcase and learn from sustainable farming projects funded by the NCR-SARE program. These initiatives encompass a wide range of agricultural practices and enterprises, demonstrating the commitment to promoting environmentally sound and economically viable farming methods. By sharing knowledge, resources, and grants, the NCR-SARE program aims to support farmers, educators, and communities in their pursuit of sustainable agriculture.

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