Delaware receives federal funding for agriculture research and marketing projects
Department of Agriculture | Date Posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2017
The Delaware Department of Agriculture announced today that seven projects received grant funding through USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant program. Delaware received nearly $300,000 to enhance the competitiveness of Delaware grown specialty crops, defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops (including floriculture).
Investment in young farmers strengthens Delaware’s economic future
Department of Agriculture | Date Posted: Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Delaware farmers, between 18 and 40 years old have the opportunity to apply for the Young Farmers Loan Program through November 30, 2017. The program provides long-term, no-interest loans to help eligible farmers purchase land, reducing the financial impact on farmers just starting out or looking to expand.
7th Annual Arborist and Tree Care Seminar on Oct. 30 and 31 at State Fairgrounds in Harrington
Department of Agriculture | Department of Labor | Forest Service | Kent County | New Castle County | Newsroom | Sussex County | Date Posted: Monday, October 9, 2017
The Delaware Forest Service’s urban and community forestry program will hold its 7th Annual Delaware Arborist and Tree Care Seminar—a one and a half-day event on October 30 and 31, 2017 at the Delaware State Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall. Speakers include tree care experts, policymakers, and academic researchers who will incorporate classroom lectures, outdoor demonstrations, and vendor exhibits to cover tree pest and disease issues, tree care management, and best practices in worker safety and pesticide use.
Attendees can earn continuing education credits toward International Society of Arboriculture and Maryland Licensed Tree Expert certifications, as well as Delaware pesticide credits. Cost is $95 for both days (meals and snacks included). To register, go to delawaretrees.com. For more information, email Kesha.Braunskill@state.de.us.
Got what it takes to fight wildfires? Delaware Forest Service seeks new trainees
Department of Agriculture | Forest Service | Newsroom | Date Posted: Monday, October 2, 2017
The Delaware Forest Service is seeking new recruits for its upcoming wildfire training classes at the Delaware State Fire School (1461 Chestnut Grove Road, Dover, DE 19904). No previous experience is needed. Candidates should be over 18, physically fit, motivated to learn, and willing to travel for at least two weeks (usually during the summer) for out-of-state fire assignments. This year’s training will take place over two separate weekend sessions: The first is on October 21 and 22 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day (lunch included). The second is on November 4 and 5 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day (lunch included). The cost for each session is $50. Register by October 16 by contacting the State Fire School at (302) 739-4773 or email: fire.school@state.de.us.
USDA seeks feedback from Delaware farmers on 2017 small grains production
Department of Agriculture | Date Posted: Friday, September 8, 2017
Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Michael Scuse is reminding farmers to complete the small grain production survey that has been sent out to nearly 300 producers by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). The agency is taking a comprehensive look into the 2017 production and supply of small grains, which include wheat, oats, barley, and rye.
