Contributed by Craig Chase, Extension Farm Management Field Specialist
“Transitioning to Organic Course” to Be Available in January 2010
Despite the economic downturn, there is still a high demand for organic corn and soybean food and feed grains, which presents a viable economic opportunity to U.S. row crop farmers. In addition, demand for local and organic fruits and vegetables is growing in Iowa and throughout the Midwest. Transitioning to successful organic production requires rapid acquisition of production, marketing and financial management skills. A course to help producers transition to organic agriculture will be offered from January 12 to April 29, 2010, from 6 PM to 9PM through the ISU Extension Organic Ag Program.
This course, titled “Risk Management Tools for Transitioning into Organic Production,” will be run as an Adobe Connect™ system from the ISU campus, and downloadable on any computer with sufficient bandwidth. Attendance at all 16 sessions will not be required unless the individual wishes to take it as a three-credit campus course. A nominal fee of $10 per session ($50 for the course) will be charged to attendees to cover costs of technology and managing the program. Check with your local Extension Office to see if they are hosting this training or contact the ISU Organic Ag Program (515) 294-5116; or Kathleen Delate at kdelate@iastate.edu.
