View / - Connecticut Farm Bureau
Transcription
View / - Connecticut Farm Bureau
Publication of The Connecticut Farm Bureau • www.cfba.org December 2009 The Voice of Connecticut Agriculture CFBA 90th Annual Meeting: Change, Challenge and Opportunity CFBA’s Annual Meeting took place on November 6 in South Windsor. Farm Bureau members and special guests from across the state and beyond came together to adopt policy resolutions, elect officers, receive reports and hear from speakers. This year’s Annual Meeting program was dedicated to the memory of Dr. Al Cowan for his contributions to CFBA and all of CT agriculture. Delegates representing the members of all eight counties elected new members to the CFBA Board of Directors. New CFBA Board of Directors members include Tim Brady of Fairfield County, Kimberly Brockett of New Haven County, Tom Dexter of Hartford County and Judy Chase of Litchfield County. In addition, Debbi Tanner was elected as the new chair of the CFBA Women’s Committee. Members leaving the Board include Bernie Dzielinski of Fairfied County, Dave Misavage of Litchfield County, Anne Staebner of the Women’s Committee and Mary Ellen Wettemann of New Haven County. President Don Tuller awards Senate President Don Williams the Sustaining Friend of CT Agriculture award. Delegates debated and adopted several policy resolutions including a study of the economic impact of CT agriculture, the adoption of agriculturally friendly municipal and state regulations, and enhancing value-added agriculture and locally-grown guidelines that benefit CT farmers and consumers. These guidelines include seeking a legal definition of “pure honey”, supporting raw milk production and expanding current provisions for food production in farm See "Annual" on page 6 SAVE THE DATE st 1 Annual Statewide Conference Farming and Inland Wetlands Forum: What Every Agricultural Producer Needs to Know Maneely’s Banquet Facility, 65 Rye St. South Windsor, CT THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 2010 Topics will include: The CT Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act and how it relates to agricultural practices, cost-share funding for NRCS conservation practices, pesticide license CEUs, Waste Management programs for agricultural producers, PA 490: Connecticut’s Current Use Tax & more. Experts from the CT DEP Inland Wetlands Division, CT DEP Waste Management Division, NRCS and land use legal counsel will be available to present and answer questions. Outstanding Member of the Year Herman Weingart and his family. Congressman Courtney: Enfield & Suffield Farm Tour Attired with his rain slicker and boots, Congressman Courtney spent a rainy October day visiting farmers in Enfield and Suffield to discuss agricultural issues. The 2nd district Congressman spoke to farmers and local officials about the successes and challenges facing Connecticut’s local agriculturists. The wet weather was an appropriate back drop as farmers described the effects that this year’s weather had on production and sales. Toured farms included Jarmoc’s Farm, Collins Powder Hill Farm and Smyth’s Trinity Farm in Enfield and Cupola Hollow Farm in West Suffield. Courtney is a founder and cochairman of the recently revived Congressional Dairy Farmers’ Caucus, which has been instrumental in raising the alarm of the dire economic condi- INSIDE THIS ISSUE OF FROM THE FARM • Executive Director Letter . . .3 • Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 • New Members . . . . . . . . . . .3 • 2009 Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 • Wall of Fame . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 • Young Farmers . . . . . . . . . . .9 • Member Services . . . . . . . . .11 • Sponsor Thanks . . . . . . . . .12 For information visit www.cfba.org or call 860-768-1100 to register. Steve Jarmoc, Congressman Courtney and President Tuller at Jarmoc's Farm. See "Tour" on page 12 The Mission of the Connecticut Farm Bureau is to elevate the stature of agriculture in our state. Through education, market promotion and legislative advocacy, we strive to increase farm income and to improve the quality of life not only for Connecticut farmers, but also for their consumers. Publication of The Connecticut Farm Bureau • www.cfba.org December 2009 From the President.. Farm Bureau was founded on the idea that farmers, working together and speaking with one voice, can accomplish much more than solitary efforts. With your help, in 2009, CFBA proved this philosophy and built upon that truth yet again. This year gave us poor weather, difficult economic conditions and very low dairy prices. Legislatively, there were efforts to take away farmer tax exemptions and other asof-right protections. In response, CFBA created a campaign to “Save Dairy”, fought to keep the farmer sales tax and motor fuel exemptions, and preserved inland wetlands as-of-right protections. In 2009, we also began a new sponsor relationship with Nationwide Insurance and reached out to many farmers who were not members in an attempt to build our membership. In addition, the Member Services Company continued to add valuable member benefits. My first year as CFBA President has been more satisfying than I ever expected. I appreciate the opportunity to serve on your behalf, and I look forward to the upcoming year. When we work together, CFBA can be the effective force that we all need it to be for Connecticut farmers. Sincerely, CFBA Calendar December 2009: February 2010: CFBA Offices Closed-Christmas December 25 • 860-768-1100 AFBF Commodity Advisory Committee Meeting Feb. 14-16 • 860-768-1100 Young Farmer Committee meeting 2nd week in Feb. • [email protected] Young Farmer Leadership Conference Feb. 19-22 • 860-768-1100 January 2010: Young Farmer Committee meeting January 5 • ctyoungfarmers.com AFBF Annual Meeting and Convention January 10-13 • 860-768-1100 New Haven County Farm Bureau Meet and Greet January 20 • 203-269-0151 eBenefits Medicare Advantage Seminar January 26 • 800-827-4227 x 221 Donald W. Tuller March 2010: CFBA Farming and Inland Wetlands Forum March 4 • 860-768-1100 Please check the latest listings at: http://www.cfba.org/html/calendar New Members The Land Appraisal Professional Welcome Fairfield: Thomas W. Henry, MAI Ken Twombly Gilbert; Bruce & Karen Williams; Fred Monahan, Stone Garden Farms; Kim & Jeffrey Greenberg, Salmon Kill Farm; Sebastian & Marie Filippone; Jerry Sargent; Tara Bryson, Butterfield Farm Company; Andrew Knuth; Ben Saunders, Ambler Farm; William S. Dlugas, Dlugas Farm; Brian R. Somwaru,Vavas Insurance & Financial Services; James D. Vavas, Vavas Insurance & Financial Services; Sami Debs; Maria Manuli; Robert J. Wokanovicz; Linda Kalata; SandraNikiforides; Donald Machir; Stephen R. Mills Jr; Glenn Rooney; Kevin Barry; Jaime Jannetti; Sheila Reardon; Martin Lynch; Godfrey Smith; Jose Santiago; John Lawrence; Daniel Paz; Harvey Arrington; Joan A. Giannone; Andrea Wright; Anthony Duva; Joan A. Giannone; Gary Moro; Richard More than 30 years experience appraising farm & rural properties • Conservation easements • Land subject to conservation easements • Certified to do non-cash charitable contributions 33 Wynding Hills Road East Granby, CT 06026 P. 860-651-4034 Fx 860-651-4049 Licensed in CT, MA & RI FROM THE FARM MASTHEAD Connecticut Farm Bureau 775 Bloomfield Ave. Windsor, CT 06095 860-768-1100 Fax 860-768-1108 www.cfba.org THE CONNECTICUT FARM BUREAU NEWS is published 6 times a year by The Connecticut Farm Bureau Association. The editor welcomes letters on agricultural topics and news items about Farm Bureau members and activities. ©2009 Connecticut Farm Bureau 2 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Don Tuller President STAFF Steven K. Reviczky Executive Director [email protected] Jamie Jones 1st Vice President Cynthia Melmer Operations Manager [email protected] Melissa Greenbacker 2nd Vice President Bill Syme Treasurer Myron Avery John Bennett Tom Brady Kimberly Brockett Wayne Budney Judy Chase Tom Dexter John Hall Joanna Samuelson Debbi Tanner Kathy Dunai-Thibedeau Director of Programs and Leadership Development [email protected] Amanda Freund CFBA Dairy Committee Grassroots Organizing Director/CFBA Director of Membership Recruitment and Retention [email protected] Gini Nagy Membership Liaison [email protected] Joan Nichols Government Relations Specialist [email protected] Sally Mancini Marketing Communications Specialist [email protected] Advertising Rates/Deadlines Our deadline is six weeks preceding publication. Please call (860) 768-1100 for rates. Discounted advertising rates are available for CFBA Members. County Farm Bureau Offices Fairfield•203-240-2295 Hartford•860-844-8444 Litchfield•203-266-9019 Middlesex•860-349-1250 New Haven•203-269-0151 New London•860-642-7811 Tolland • 860-742-5725 Windham • 860-923-2710 9/5 – 10/31/09 Stern; Richard Kuhn; Jennifer Hall; Joseph Mayer; Abdellah Essoussi; Marcelo's Garden; Louise Thompson; Earth Garden Florist & Nursery; Franco Garden Center; Joe's Nursery; Paddock Tree & Lawn; Pine Hill Flower Shop; Putnam Tree Service; David Benjamin, Wakeman Nursery Inc.; Pond Spring Nurseries; Weston Gardens Inc.; Cottage Garden Co.; Scott Deniston, Young's Nurseries Inc.; Brookside Nurseries Organic Soils; Rob Saunders, True Organics; Bolton Tree & Landscaping Inc.;Frank's Farm; Sunshine Garden Center; Tramposch Nursery; Ken Covino, Frogtown Nurseries; Mark Hicks, Elise Landscapes & Nursery LLC.; John Sterba, Greegs Garden Center & Landscape; Locust Glen Garden Center; Steven CarmichaelCT Tree Doctor; Samuel Nezvesky, Sam's Tree Farm; Jerome Rocherolle, Shanti-Bithi Nursery; Russell Andrew, The Care Of Trees; Exquisite Environments Garden Center; Janet Chakwin, Robidoux Landscaping & Bettswood Gardens; Country Farm Nursery; Reynolds Farm Nurseries; Greg Passeck, L&L EverGreen Inc.; Chris Baliko, Growing Solutions LLC; Bill Sabia, Peacable Farms; American Irrigation Systems; Langanke's Florists & Greenhouses; Merry Arena, Merrywood Farm; Marshall Condon; Alexandra Coppola, Coppola Country Farm Nursery; Gerardo Malagisi, High Ridge Nursery; Lou Capone,D & L Plant Care Inc.; Scott Jamison, Oliver's Nurseries Inc.; Shady Tree; Ganim Garden Center Nurserymen; Johnsons Nurseries Inc.; Plant Factory Inc.; William Miro, Miro Greenhouses; Rob Cardini, Ceci Bros Nursery Inc.; De La Rosa Gardens; Earthworks Of Greenwich; House And Garden Shop; Mcardle's Florist And Garden Center; Sakson Nursery Inc.; Skovron Nursery; Suburban Farmer Co.; Patrick O'Hara; Bradford Orr, Seven Maples Nursery; Roth Bros Nursery; Jeremy Blumm, Fairfield Stone & Landscp Supl.; Colonial Gardens; Bridgeport Aquaculture FFA; Westhill High School FFA; Trumbull High School FFA; Digrazia Vineyard; Mclaughlin Vineyards; Keith Barker, Gardener's Center & Florists; Chris Mcgoldrick, The Growing Concern; A1 Topsoil Co.; Springdale Florists & Garden Center; See "Members" on page 5 3 Publication of The Connecticut Farm Bureau • www.cfba.org December 2009 From "Members" on page 3 Sal Gilbertie, Gilbertie's Herb Gardens Inc.; Gregory Maroun, Steck's Nursery & Landscaping; Marcelo's Garden; Peter Robidoux, Peter's Home & Garden; Caesar's Nursery; Lisa Beebe, Garden Education Center; Frank Derosa, Shemin Nurseries Inc.; Yankee Tree Resources; Richard Bavosa, Stamford Regional FFA Chapter; Will Kesler, Stamford FFA; Stephanie Watko, Woodbury FFA; Richard Bavosa, Stamford Regional FFA Chapter; Sara Halm, Stamford Regional FFA Chapter; Astha Patni, Stamford FFA; Tom Addison, Stamford FFA; Alexander Smith, Stamford FFA; Will Kesler, Stamford FFA; John Flynn, Stamford Regional FFA Hartford: Thomas & Linda Sheridan, T-Ranch; MaryChojnicki; Gary J. Beresford, Round Hill Farm; James Zagorski,Zagorski Farms LLC; Gary Keeney; Katherine Bogli,Maple View Farm; Jonathon L. & Cheryl Ensign; Jared & Suzie Matkowski; Nicole Foster; George Amatore; Karen Mitton; Michael Eaton; Deborah Rosario; Allen Eaton; Glen Corson; Sally Mancini; Arthur W. Sweeton, III, Seven Oaks; Laura Judd; Catherine Graffy; Vincent Fioramonti; Heather Vannostrand; Sherri Hall; Kevin Ortiz; Jeff Ross; David Anderson, Sunnybrook Farms; Eva Chomicz, Plant Therapy Solutions; Avon Cider Mill; Holly Farm; Hans Van Der Spek, J.C. Van Der Spek Greenhouse Serv.; Nutmeg Farm Garden Center; Deb Donohoe, Lost In Thyme Garden LLC; Patricia Jakatavich Imperial Nurseries; Harry Wilcox, Jr., Farmington Valley Nursery; Twelve Tree Nursery; Phil Wojtusik, Wojtusik Nursery And Garden Center; Country Gardens Inc.; Baldwin Farm Perennial Gardens; Frank Thomann, Charter Oak Landscape & Nursery Sales; Gerald Heresko, Bristol Mum Inc.; Kasheta Farms; Peter Crowe, Jensen's Inc.; Great American Home Brew Supply; Mike Wrobel, Winterberry Gardens LLC; David Armstrong, David T. Armstrong Nursery; Brian Sikes, Sikes Tree Service; Perleoni & Son Garden & Nursery Center;Bidwell's Yard Garden & Pet; Steve Jaeger, Butler Florist & Garden Center, LLC; Robert & Nancy Shipman, Shipman Nursery,LLC; Robert Powell, Gledhill Nursery Inc.; Valley Home & Garden Center; Bruce Mccue, Mccue Gardens; Scott Wheeler, Winding Brook Turf Farm Inc.; Peter & Celina O'Meara, B & P Turf Farm; Ken's Nursery & Garden; Kevin Cavalier, Patrissi Nursery Center Inc.; Mark Bussolini, The Kenmark Company; Tom Hinman, Riverside Nursery & Garden Center; Jamie Gilbert, Harken's Garden Center; James McKinney, River Valley Growers; Nancy Wenzel, Northern Nurseries; Douglas Zeytoonjian, Turf Products Corporation; Hawthorne Agway; Tarnow Nursery; Chris Field, Greencycle Of The Northeast; Burgess Nursery; Donald Ford, Stonegate Gardens Inc.; Chuck Hart, Revay's Gardens & Gift Shop; Edward Willard, New England Seed Company; Christina Berger, Berger's Nursery; Todd Cloutier, Ameriscape LLC; David Sylvester, Agr Evo Usa Company; Johnson Gardens; Marc Laviana, Sunny Border Nurseries; Judy Mattson, New England Garden Sales; Vittners Garden Center Inc.; John Mathews, New Britain Nursery & Landscape; Weber's Nursery; Sam Frink, Frink Garden Center; Elizabeth Swanson; Rosedale Vineyards, LLC; Karen Chase; Ann Lewis; Harris Agriscience & Technology Center; Glastonbury High School - Ag Ed; Southington High School FFA Litchfield: 4 Thomas M. Fitzgerald III, Greyledge Farm; Greg Bollard, Maywood Farm; David Blyn, Riverbank Farm LLC.; Stephen Dubois, Farm Dubois; Stonehedge Farm, Donald Govotski; Duncan Mc Dougall; Donald Albert, Cedar Ridge Farm; Joseph & Dawn Desteph; Lavender Creek Farm LLC; June & Henry Bissonnette; Gene Heavens, Bryan Heavens Logging & Firewood; Laura Freund; Karl Riva; Winter Mead II, Mead's Maple; RaymondBolek, Geofdebjon Acres; M. Elaine La Roche, Haisdan Farm LLC; Lloyd Albin, Campers Choice Trees; Kellie Devan; H. Bruce Mc Ever; Bill Arnold, Fieldstone Farm; Christopher B. Clow, Weathercock Farm; Steven Norden; Lawrence & Holly Johnson; Michelle Hood; Ira & Jennifer Kaplan; Tikva Wolff, Wolf's Farm; Nicholle Jejer; Timothy Mcdonagh, TFM Co. LLC; Jeff Lynch, Rock Cobble Farm; Carmine Polletta, Agri Care Of Connecticut; Greystone Greenhouses;Kozlak's Discount Nursery; Kerry Gallagher, Beardsley Gardens; Maria Domack, Moscarillo's Garden Shoppe; Steve Kinkade, Shepaug Flower Farm; William Hosking, James S. Hosking Nursery; Mark's Garden Center; Stonewood Farm; Agway-Woodbury; Hale's Woodland Gardens; The Urban Forester Inc.; Edward Decortin, Twin Oaks Horticultural Association LLC; Jeannette Dean, Backyard Botanical; Edward Dillon, Jr., Keed's Farm LLC; John Acerbi Litchfield Hills Nursery Inc.; Jay Laplaca, South Farms Nursery Inc.; Goshen Nurseries; Sepple's Tree Service; Lee Boucher, New England Bark Mulch; Bruce Bennett, The Kent Greenhouse; Old Farm Nursery; Tom Martinsen; Andi Cantele, Marigold Gardens LLC; David O'Leary, Agway-New Milford; Boreal Forests; Judith Becker, Lauray Of Salisbury; Barbara Pierson, White Flower Farm; Douglas Baldwin, Fieldstone Nursery; Robert Marques, Meadowbrook Farms LLC; Scott Melatti, Scott's Nursery Landscape Supplies LLC; Mary Wilton, Mountain Meadow Farm; Cosmos Greenhouse & Nursery; Nash Pradhan, Ginger Creek Nursery; Margaret Burnett, Gardenmaker LLC; Peter Whitney; Nick Vasileff, Vasileff Nurseries Inc.; Eric Mendelsohn, Salisbury Garden Center LLC; David Johnson, Spruce Brook Nursery Inc.; Kathleen Nelson, Kathleen Nelson Perennials; Susan Alvord, Connecticut Cut Flower; Dennis Dodge, Bethlehem Nursery; Hidden Garden/Rabinowitz Greenhouses; Windover Garden Center & Florist; John O'Donnell, O'Donnell Nursery; Brian O'Neil, Cornwall Gardens; Nora Hulton, Nora's Nursery & Florist; Thomas Scott, Falls Village Flower Farm; Aspetuck Gardens; Strawberry Ridge Vineyards; Northwinds Vineyard; Stacey Ferraro; Kimberly Thorn; Sunset Meadow Vineyard; Michael Orefice; Alphonse Avitabile; Daniel & Gloria Masopust, Brierwood Nurseries; Jerram Winery; Eileen Graham; Elaine Frost; Abbey Of Regina Laudis; Walter & Rebecca Burcroff; Alan Lovejoy; RhondaJaacks; CT Junior Republic FFA; Robert Gambino, Northeast Tree-Pond-Turf Service; Katie Beadle, Northwestern Regional FFA; Taylor Espitee, Woodbury FFA Chapter; Katie Beadle, Northwestern Regional FFA; Meghan Tanner Wamogo; Victor Salazar, Northwestern Reg. FFA; Jessica Roth, Woodbury FFA Chapter; Jessica Myer, Woodbury FFA; Sarah Curless, Woodbury FFA Chapter; Marisa Bedron, Woodbury FFA Middlesex: Leonard Brooks III; Janine Kanapicki; Steven Goldblatt; Robert & Catherine Chase, Spencer Hill Farm; Joseph P. Geraghty; LizaDavis; Pamela & William Demiris; Pro-Turf; Russell Egan, Hillcrest Gardens Nursery Inc.; Arthur Scovill, Scovill Landscape & Garden Center; Viola Lawn Service & Garden Center; Joseph Paolella, Cromwell Growers; Laura Miezejeski, Hortus Perennials; Gastler Farm Nursery; Miller Tree Farm; Alicia Rockwell, Akers Of Gardens; Dan Peszynski, Paul's & Sandy's Too; Samuel Riggio, Riggio's Garden Center; Robert Glazier, Town & Country Nurseries Inc.; Walter Kops; Nutmeg Flower Farm; Circle D Nursery Inc.; Damon Panzera, Blue Cedar Gardens; Killingworth Nurseries Inc.; Mary Johnson, Me Johnson Nurseries; Dawn Graham, G & H Growers; Rob Townsend, A&R Water Gardens; David Richards, Clinton Nurseries Inc.; Connecticut Plantsman LLC; Jill Sliker, Briggs Nursery; Alice Durinick; Jeffery Harvey, Brush Hill Farm; Herbert Clark III; Heather Birdsey; Doug & Joan Paul; Kathleen Worthington; Mary Jane Lis, DVM; Carol Martin; Wendy Welter; Rick & Allison Trojanoski; Giuseppe Caturano; Nathan Hale-Ray High School FFA; Ty & David Zemelsky, Star Light Gardens; Melissa Gibson, Wellstone Farm; Hanna Mellaly, Mattabeset FFA Chapter; Jami-Lynn Korpela, Ray FFA Chapter; Robert Johnson, Ray FFA Chapter; Kaligh Hargraves, FFA Chapter Ray New Haven: Roy & Bill Detlefsen, The Last Frontier; Kristine M. Garcia; Angelo M. Palombo; Howard Raccio, Raccio Farm; Mark & Patricia Oczkowski, Red Twil Ridge Farm; Gennaro Savino, Savino Vineyards; Bob & Cindy Harrison, Breezy Knolls; Howard & Evelyn See "Members" on page 9 5 Publication of The Connecticut Farm Bureau • www.cfba.org From "Annual" on page 1 kitchens. The Board of Directors will set CFBA’s legislative priorities based on approved policy in anticipation of the 2010 legislative session. In addition to policy development, delegates heard additional reports from Treasurer Bill Syme, Executive Director Steve Reviczky, Investment Committee Chairman Steve Solley, Member Services Company President Randolph Blackmer, Jr., and Judith Blei Government Relations. Presentations from a variety of speakers covered topics including the 2007 Census of Agriculture, reliable risk management tools available through RMA, and the impact of the UCONN dairy study and “Save Dairy” campaign. The luncheon program was highlighted by a speech by Mark Maslyn, American Farm Bureau Federation Vice President for Public Policy. During lunch, Commissioner of Agriculture Phil Prelli, Commissioner of Motor Vehicles Robert Ward, and Commissioner of the 6 Department of Environmental Protection Amey Marrella joined delegates and spoke about important developments for Connecticut agriculture. After dinner and awards, CFBA Young Farmer Committee members drew the winning ticket for a pedal tractor donated by Stanton Equipment and raffled off a number of gift baskets. Lori Longhi representing the Connecticut Agricultural Education Foundation Board of CFBA Executive Directors issued Director Steve the Foundation’s Reviczky and yearly county chalMark Maslyn, lenge and was sucAFBF Vice President for cessful in bringing Public Policy. in several thousand dollars. Through the yearly challenge and the silent auction the Foundation is able to continue their support of various agricultural education programs throughout Connecticut. December 2009 C T F A R The Association’s Outstanding Member Award is presented annually to an individual who has a long-term demonstrated commitment to Farm Bureau. This year the award was presented to Herman R. Weingart of New London County. Herm has been a member of CFBA for 53 years and has served in various leadership roles on the county and state level. “For four decades Herman has been an integral part of the policies that mold and guide every Farm Bureau member as a county representative and/or delegate. He has held a seat on the New London County Board of Directors for over 40 years,” stated Wayne Budney in Weingart’s award application. Furthermore, Herm has been involved in local politics through Planning and Zoning and Inland Wetlands Watercourse Commissions and the Board of Education. CT Farm Bureau was honored to award Herman with this year’s Outstanding Member Award. Governor M. Jodi Rell received special recognition for her support of the dairy industry. In addition to providing emergency assistance to the state’s dairy farmers, she also implemented a two-year program to supplement dairy farmers when the cost of production exceeds the federal pay price for milk. M B U R E Five state legislators were recognized for their support and leadership on key agriculture legislation during the 2009 state legislative session. Senate President Donald Williams, Jr. (D-29) received the Sustaining Friend of Connecticut Agriculture award. Senator Williams was honored for his long term commitment to the future of farming including the establishment and protection of the Community Investment Act, farmland protection and dairy viability. House Majority Leader Denise Merrill (D-54) received the Special Recognition award. Representative Merrill was recognized for her leadership role in establishing a bi-partisan working group to further legislation in support of the dairy industry. Representative Bryan Hurlburt (D-53) received the Legislator of the Year Award for his outstanding advocacy for farmers and CT agriculture including value-added agriculture (The Pickle Bill), continued funding for Ag Viability grants under the Community Investment Act, animal agriculture and dairy. State Representative Pam Sawyer (R-55) also received the Legislator of the Year award for her continued support of CT agriculture and work advocating for a program to support CT dairy farmers. State Representative Joan Lewis (D-8) was also honored with the Legislator of the Year award for her sustained efforts in the adoption of legislation to maintain a viable dairy industry and her support of farmers and farming in CT. A U 2 0 0 9 Earning the Farm Bureau Legislative Action Award this year was New London County farm bureau member Anita Kopchinski. Anita was recognized for her work furthering The Pickle Bill in the 2009 legislative session. Anita was actively engaged throughout the legislative session and worked to reach out to lawmakers on this important Bill. Wayne Budney, also of New London County earned this year’s award for Grassroots Involvement. Wayne has been active in organizing right-to-farm committees in Colchester, Columbia and Lebanon and is an enthusiastic supporter of Connecticut agriculture. Fairfield County Farm Bureau received the 2009 CT Farm Bureau membership award. Fairfield was the only County to meet their CT Farm Bureau membership goal by increasing their county’s membership during the 2009 membership year. Two of Connecticut’s young farmers were recognized for their contributions to agriculture. Both Joanna Samuelson and Jamie Jones received a $500 award from Dodge and the opportunity to represent CFBA at the AFBF Annual Meeting in January. Joanna received the Excellence in Agriculture award and Jamie Jones received the Young Farmer Achievement award. A W A R D S Recognition of the top performers among Nationwide® agents was also a part of this year’s Annual Meeting Awards. Ken Davis representing the Nationwide® Board of Directors and Gary Douglas, President of Nationwide® Agribusiness joined Farm Bureau members in honoring: Brian Rogers-#2 Farm Bureau membership writer and #1 Farm Policy writer; Craig Meier-#1 Farm Bureau membership writer; Chris Lyons-#2 Farm Policy writer; Jeff Tobin-#3 Farm Bureau membership writer; and Chris Caluori-#3 Farm Policy writer. Rounding out the list of awards for 2009 was a Special Recognition award for UConn College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for their study of the economic impact of the dairy industry in Connecticut. Top: Nationwide® Insurance representatives at CFBA’s Annual Meeting Above Left: State Representative Joan Lewis receives the CFBA Legislator of the Year award from President Tuller. Above Center: Wayne Budney receives the Grassroots Involvement award. Above Right: Representative Bryan Hurlburt speaks after receiving CFBA’s Legislator of the Year award. Bottom: Dean Weidemann of UConn College of Ag and Natural Resources and Dr. Lopez accept the Special Recognition award. 7 Publication of The Connecticut Farm Bureau • www.cfba.org December 2009 From "Members" on page 5 arm First Pioneer F announced Credit recently gland that Jason Hoa to ed ot has been prom ident es pr assistant vice ion. at z ni ga for the or on. as J , ns io Congratulat Senator Dodd accepts the AFBF Friend of Farmer award for his suppor t for farmers in the 110th U.S. Congress. ty CFBA ex Coun Middles ergan, Peter B member ful Hill f Peace owner o ton, st Hamp rm in Ea Fa e e Tr CT d 2009 awarde CT was er m r ee Fa nding Tr Outsta eter ns to P tulatio Congra . r a e Y of the family. and his Shawn McG illicuddy of Square Farm in Le A banon was named th Dairy Farm e CT er of the Year by th New Engla e nd Green Pastures Award pr ogram. m a ny s t h e te d k n a th na CF BA rs w h o do ble a e e m t e v o l u n i me t o a s s o v e r t o t r t h e i t m a i li ng s . r n e e c m re f ar 5,000 Belinsky, Belinsky Family Farm; Randi Lewis; Sandra Artaiz; Joanne Kraynak; Christine Fronckiewcz; Andrea Messina; Leodan B. Yepez Poveda; Howard Runyon; Kathy Coletta; Carolyn Mason; Chris Walker; William Baer; Jose Avila; Johanne Henderson; John Matteis; Cheryle Pacapelli; Nathaniel Washington; Lemarr Massenburg; Shawna O'Neil; Charles Chancio; Miriam Vitale; Mary Germe; Robert Walzer; Todd Brandi, Pioneer Mortgage; Peter Amento; Erni Childers; Melissa Safouane; Janet Self; Rhonda Laudano; Edmund & Andrea Ramo; Lori Turmel; Gordon Szymczak; Matthew Orsini; Santiago Baez; Bruce Butler, B&B Power Equipment; Salvatore Cioffi, Oak Tree Nurseries; Fairway Gardens; Sherman Valley Nursery; Ralph Disanto, Paradise Nurseries LLC; Tim Blundon; Jeff Santoro, Madison Garden Center; Holly Johnson, Summer Hill Nursery Inc.; Sharon Vumbaco, Quality Garden & Equipment; Steve Banyay; Christopher Barretta, Barretta Gardens LLC; Jeffrey Auerbach, Country Fare LLC; Robert Macchia, Q-Gardens; Greenwich Nurseries; Agway Wilmot Bros.; Scott Hickman; Prospect Gardens Inc.; Agway-North Branford; Carlo Bergamini, Carlton Gardens; Michael Annatone, Annatone Nursery Farm; Mike Schuchmann, East Side Greenhouses; Simon's Farm Market; Laurel Hill Nursery; Bill Beebe, Cheshire Nursery, Inc.; Todd Connery, C.H. Robinson Co.; Jeffrey King, Hickory Ridge Nursery; Alfred Devylder, Devylder Greenhouses; Dennis Fowler, Kurt Weiss Greenhouses Of CT; John Mcginnis, The Gardens At Cheshire LLC; Bill Van Wilgen, Van Wilgen's Garden Center; Anne Mcintyre-Lahner; Sarah Murray,DVM; Ellen Adomelis; Evan Dudley; Maurice Blanchette, A Public Flower & Garden; Norm Schmidt, Jr., Schmidt Gardens; Pat Aiello, Bell Nurseries Inc.; Diane King, Phil's Garden Center; Agway Of North Haven Farm Supply; Paul Chipman, Cedar Ridge Nursery; Benjamin Neal, Southbury Tree Service; Oxford Farms Growing Center; Joan Chevrier, Colonial Irrigation; Wesley Rouse, Pine Meadow Gardens Inc.; Wildewood Gardens; Wisteria Hill Farm Nursery; Mary Tomlinson, Krikit's Garden Center; Robert Wilber, Wilber & King Nurseries; Vincent Gloria, Vinny's Garden Center Inc.; Rede Garden Center; Walter Atwood, Pillwillup Farm; Sound School Of New Haven FFA; Lyman Hall High School FFA; Peter Rothenberg, Northfordy Farm; Mike Burns, Kate & Mike's Naturally Grown New London: Glenn Dahlke, Ashlawn Farm; Linda Adelman, Six Paca Farm; Daniel A. Jeffrey, Pequot Plant Farm; Peter D. Calvert; William G. Grant Jr.; Lynwood & Jennifer Crary; Michael & Kathleen Poiner, Featherhill Farm; John Olsen, Olsen's Tree Farm; Karen Benedict, Babe Farm; Paul & Patricia Peltier, Triple "P" Paddocks; Nancy Franklin, Marvel Farm LLC; Richard W. Dexter, Briarledge Farm; Nancy Franklin, Marvel Farm LLC; Richard W. Dexter, Briarledge Farm; William J. Loftus, Loftus Farm; Mary Fischer, Bit By Bit Stables; Eric Hoxie, Red Oak Stable; William Dall Jr.; Traci Butler; Brian Campbell; Timothy Hathaway; Marcus P. Job; Peter Larkin; Dalice Elizabeth; Jonathan Edwards Winery; Saltwater Farm Vineyard;Stonington Vineyards; Fred Capacchione, Capacchione Greenhouses; Eugene Copp; Suzanne Sankow; Anthony Marfat; Sharon Moroch; William Cournoyer; Richard Lightfoot; Joyce Vournazos; Celine Sicard; Muriel Weber; Carl Runkle; Ruth Howard; Jack Fidrych; Teri Smith, Smith's Acres LLC; Rich Oliver, Perennial Harmony; Hathaway Greenhouse; Philip Tuthill, Tuthill Nursery & Garden Center; Geer Tree Farm; Mark Sellew, Prides Corner Farms Inc.; Tim Black, Timbuck 2 Garden Center; Jim Nieuwenhuis, Stonington Gardens; Baltic Greenhouse Nursery; Edmund Gregan II, Carlton Plants LLC; Jennifer Hibbard, Fox Hill Growers; River Run Nurseries; Brian Viltrakis, Plant & Flower Depot Of Oakville LLC; Bridge Gardens; Yankee Tree Service; Robert Lasaracina, Salem Country Gardens; Marlis Jacobwitz, Stonybrook Valley Tree Farm; Kathryn Moore, Kathy's Gardening; Agway Inc Of Yantic; Kelly Andersen, Oasis Gardens LLC; Ledyard High School FFA Tolland: Joanne Hansen, High Fields Farm; Charles & Heidi Galgowski; Jonathan Moser; Zach Olson; Nicole Roethlein, Wildwood Acres; Sandra Ashley, DaltonAshley Acres; Roger D. Tellefsen, Tellefsen Farm; Andrew Ansaldi Jr; Barbara Lemek; Prescott Lehmann, Hickory Ridge Tree Farm; Steve Norris; Shaun & Holly Harrington; David & Brenda Houle; John Andrychowski; Thomas Ellenberg; Sarah Ellenberg; Hillcrest Garden Center; James Cropley, Cropley's Garden Center & Landscaping; Tessier's Nursery & Landscapers Inc.; Mark Eitelman, Agri-Scape Inc.; Agway Inc. Of Ellington; Stephen Whitham, Whitham Nursery; Cassidy Hill Vineyard; Alex Roy, Connecticut FFA Foundation; Rebecca Reynolds, Connecticut FFA Foundation; Linda Palmer, DVM; Jean Denapoli, DVM; Melissa Ferguson; Katie Bombria; Christine Collins; Claudette Choma; Laurel Atwood; Cheryl Ryan; Rachael Gately; Lynn Stoddard; Bonnie & Paul Kegler; Jim & Kim Cipiello, Terra Gardens; Dennis Gliha, The Garden Barn Nursery; Kenneth Crooke, Ken's Landscaping & Nursery; Christopher Campbell, Hockanum Industries Greenhouse; Pete Nickerson, Somersville Gardens; Becky & Ray Mecklenburg, Mecklenburg Farm LLC; Ledgecrest Garden Center; Midgard Nurseries; Vernon Tree Service; JoanAllen, Uconn Home & Garden Ed. Center; E.O. Smith High School FFA; Rockville High School FFA; Kenneth Cone, Cedar Ledge Tree Farm; Gregory Clarke, UCONN CANR Windham: Richard Dezso; Art Talmadge, Cranberry Hill Farm; Richard B. Young; Peter & Mary Concklin; Bernice Loser; Roland F. La Pensee, Quarter Ridge Farm; David Gardner; Susan Barry, Misty Highland Farm; Carl Correra; Renee Gelinas; Anna Burnham; Lynn Biesiadecki; Leslie Lupien; Keri Boucher; Rebecca Stedman; Ann & Michael Bourke; Jim Burlingame; Matthew Couzens; Quackin' Grass Nursery; Ross Garden, Center & Nursery; Deborah Lee, Woodland Trails Wildflower Nursery; Bob Harsch, Goose Neck Gardens & Gift Shoppe; Patrick Roach, Goat Star Tree; Greg Panu, Sunset Nurseries Garden Center; Ezequiel Garcia; Denise Ciastko, Pan's Acres Nursery LLC; TomGray, Verkade's Nursery Of Canterbury; Todd Burnett; Frank Anastasio, Wagon Road Farm & Greenhouse; Byron Martin, Logee's Greenhouses; Stan Megos, The Variegated Foliage Nursery; Jim Reck, Acorn Ridge Garden; Moosup Gardens Learning Ctr.; Daniel Spencer, Highland Gardens Nursery; Woodstock Wild Flower Nursery Policy Matters: Fuel Tax Initiative Over the next few months, the CT Department of Motor Vehicles will be increasing spot inspections to check for illegal use of dyed diesel in on-road motor vehicles. This is a statewide effort to catch fuel users who are attempting to bypass paying road tax by using dyed diesel in their on-road motor vehicles. Dyed diesel should only be used in off road applications. 8 Zach Olson 25 Bear Swamp Rd, Andover [email protected] Zach Olson has a 60-tap maple syrup operation, producing 15 gallons, and he is working to grow his business. He also works for Hytone Farm in Coventry, a dairy that is part of Farmer’s Cow. Hytone Farm has 240 Holstein cows, 165 young stock and 200 acres for corn silage and 130 acres for grass silage. The Farmer’s Cow is a group of six Connecticut dairy farms, marketing Zach Olson their own milk products, eggs and other beverages throughout the state. Zach is responsible for manure application, equipment and building maintenance and crop work. As an employee of the Farmer’s Cow, Zach admits that it gives him more of a retail/marketing focus when it comes to farming. Zach is involved in the Young Farmers Committee and the CFBA Dairy Committee. He is also a member of the Maple Syrup Producers Association of Connecticut. Zach graduated from UConn with a degree in Animal Science. Zach feels that Connecticut is headed toward a more retailbased marketplace, rather than wholesale. Connecticut and CFBA should help to promote locally produced food and agricultural products while protecting farmers ability to produce that food. Zach understands that farmers need to make the local public more aware of where their food comes from and how it is produced. This series highlights the future of farming in Connecticut. By focusing on Connecticut Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers, these profiles will show the changing face of agriculture in our state. Connecticut’s farmers must respond with a resilient, determined spirit to face mounting feed and fuel costs and changes in consumer preferences. LAWRENCE REAL ESTATE Farms, Land, Estates, Horse Properties Eastern Connecticut Ashford Resident Since 1973! GARY H. LAWRENCE, CRB OWNER/BROKER Phone: (860) 429-7240 Cell: (860) 428-9126 Email: [email protected] On the web: www.lawrencesells.com 126 Storrs Road, Mansfield Center, CT 06250 9 Publication of The Connecticut Farm Bureau • www.cfba.org December 2009 Distractions that take a driver’s eyes off the road even for just seconds put drivers and their passengers at great risk.: Nationwide and NASCAR urge teens to “hang up and drive” Nearly three-quarters of Americans admit they drive while distracted by activities such as talking on the phone, texting, or fiddling with an MP3 player, according to a survey by Nationwide Insurance. The problem is especially bad for young drivers. In a 2008 survey, Nationwide found that nearly 40 percent of the teenagers and young adults surveyed admitted they send and receive text messages while driving - the same percentage of those questioned who said they have been hit or almost hit by another car whose driver was talking on a cell phone. “Clearly, distracted driving has taken over our roadways and Nationwide wants to educate all drivers that they need to focus on the road, not on their technology, when behind the wheel,” said Bill Windsor, Associate Vice President of Safety for Nationwide Insurance. “Text messaging comes natural to Gen Y-ers. However, multitasking while behind the wheel is quite different from multitasking while sitting at home.” In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says distracted drivers account for nearly four out of five crashes in the U.S. That’s why Nationwide Insurance has teamed up with NASCAR Nationwide Series drivers, including Kyle Petty, to hold events at high schools across the country to drive home the message that multitasking behind the wheel puts drivers and their fellow motorists at risk. At these events, students learn how these distractions impact their driving when we challenge them to race in a NASCAR simulator while texting on a cell phone. “I am really excited to be a part of this campaign. Young drivers today are faced with more distractions than ever before, and diverting their attention away from the road with cell phone calls and text messages creates a very dangerous situation,” said Petty. “It is important for young adults to learn about the risks associated with distracted driving. If we can raise awareness on this particular subject I believe we can save lives.” For several years now, Nationwide has been leading the charge against Driving While Distracted (DWD) – which includes talking and texting on cell phones. Windsor said Nationwide’s efforts represent more than just a public awareness campaign. “We want to be a part of the solution to this emerging and dangerous social trend,” he said. To help, Nationwide and the National Safety Council developed www.NationwideSmartRide.com, a Website to provide parents and teens free tools and resources to help devel- op safe drivers and reinforce smart behavior. “Nationwide believes we can make our roads a safer place to drive by finding solutions to the DWD problem through legislation, public awareness and encouraging the development of new technology,” said Windsor. “In addition to saving lives, fewer crashes could result in lower auto insurance costs.” Connecticut Farm Bureau is a sponsor of Nationwide, and endorses Nationwide policies, many of which are discounted for members of Connecticut Farm Bureau. Please ask a nearby agent for more details, or visit www.nationwide.com/cfba. NASCAR driver Kyle Petty races Principal Barry Blair while trying to text at DWD event at the New Technology High School at Garinger, NC. (Kyle won the contest, but even as a professional driver, he struggled to stay on the track while texting). Procurement Forester Needed Duties include research of town records, developing clients, boundary location, marking, contract negotiations, working with municipal boards and subcontracted logging crews; occasional equipment operation. Safety awareness and solid people skills required. Must have, or be able to obtain promptly, CT Forester Please contact: Certification. Full benefit Mike Bartlett ([email protected]) package, company vehicle, Hull Forest Products, 101 Hampton Road, and incentives. Pomfret Center CT 06259 Phone - Invitation To Submit Proposals For Lease On State Owned Agricultural Lands Located In Lebanon And Colchester The State of Connecticut, Department of Agriculture will accept agricultural lease proposals from interested farmers wishing to lease farmland for a period beginning no sooner than October 2010. Approximately 263 acres of cropland and pasture, with improvements, are available for farm lease. Owned by the State, Department of Agriculture, the farm is in the towns of Lebanon and Colchester, CT. Proposals will be reviewed by the Commissioner and an advisory committee. Food and fiber producing agricultural activities will be considered a priority. Overall impact on the productivity and condition of the land by the submitted applications will be considered by the State. The lease(s) may be for a term of up to five years, with the option to renew, at the discretion of the Commissioner, for an additional five years. For a bid request form, additional information or sketches of the areas available for farm lease, please call 860.713.2511 and leave your name, mailing address, phone number and information being requested. Proposals should be addressed to: Farmland Preservation Program CT Department of Agriculture Lebanon Farm Bid Proposal Room G-8, 165 Capitol Avenue Hartford, CT 06106. Proposals must be postmarked by February 1, 2010 to be eligible for consideration. M E CT Farm Bureau Member Services, Inc. thank the following Service Companies for their generous contributions of door prizes for our Annual Meeting: Nationwide® Insurance Benefits: Special Savings for CFBA Members • Up to 7% Savings on Auto Insurance • 7% Savings on Farm Insurance • Travel Insurance • Veterinary Pet Insurance® Nationwide provides for all your insurance protection needs including Auto, Home, Farm, Boat, ATV, Business and Life. For more information, contact Jim Keane at 860-808-8106 or 888-280-2711, your local Nationwide agent, or visit www.Nationwide.com. eBenefits Group Northeast is a full-service, independent employee benefits agency serving the health insurance and benefits needs of CT Farm Bureau members and their families. By incorporating them into your operations, eBenefits can manage everyday benefit functions simpler, faster and more cost effectively. They become part of your running your business, minus the expense. Contact: Steve Repka 860.675.4227 / 800.827.4227 eBenefits Group Northeast is excited to announce a MEDICARE ADVANTAGE SEMINAR FOR FARM BUREAU MEMBERS TUESDAY JANUARY 26TH • 10:00 AM • CFBA Offices, Windsor You have a lot to consider when selecting a Medicare plan. eBenefits can help make your search for a health plan easier and more convenient. Please watch for further information via e-mail. If you would like to sign up for the seminar or have questions, please contact Linda Gaetgens, eBenefits 800-827-4227 x221 or [email protected]. M B E R S E R V I C E S M E M B E R S E RV I C E S , I N C . NEED MORE INFO? HAVE AN IDEA FOR A NEW SERVICE? Contact CT Farm Bureau Member Services at: 860-768-1106 • [email protected] Capital Bankcard-Credit Card Processing – Members get the most competitive pricing and rates, combined with the highest levels of personalized customer service and special member offers and rebates. Capital Bankcard offers wireless, as well as traditional terminals, so even farm stands, farmers’ markets and pick-your-own fields can become sales points. Contact Bill Morrone, at 860774-8210-office, or 860-234-1110mobile, and mention Farm Bureau. Dodge – $500 discount on retail purchase or lease of select Dodge vehicles including; RAM 1500/2500/3500, RAM 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cabs, Dakota, Durango, Grand Caravan, Journey, Charger, Nitro, Caliber and Avenger. This offer can be used in addition to any national consumer incentives but cannot be combined with ON THE JOB Commercial Incentive, employee discounts, or other printed certificate programs. Contact CT Farm Bureau for a certificate. Stanton Equipment Stop in today for the latest farm equipment! • 2A Gandolfo Drive, Canaan – (860) 824-1161 • 105 S. Main St., East Windsor – (860) 623-8296 • 1376 Norwich Rd., Plainfield – (860) 230-0130 Choice Hotels – 20% off regular rates. Hotels include: Clarion, Quality, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, Econo Lodge, Main Stay Suites, Rodeway Inn, and Suburban – locations in the U.S. and around the world! For reservations call toll-free – 800-258-2847 or online at www.choicehotels.com. Lands’ End Business Outfitters – 10% off product and embroidery fee online and phone orders. Call 800.916.2255 or shop online: ces.landsend.com/CTFB Grainger – 10% discount when you present the Farm Bureau account number. Call Cynthia at 860-768-1106 to link the discount to your existing account. Free shipping with online orders! Order by phone – 877-2022594, fax – 877-202-2593, online- www.grainger.com, or at any Grainger Branch location. FBApparel – Need that personal touch? Contact your FBApparel representative at 1-800-776-6221. 860.974.0127 10 11 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID BRIDGEPORT, CT PERMIT NO.347 Connecticut Farm Bureau 775 Bloomfield Avenue Windsor, CT 06095 The Voice of Connecticut Agriculture From "Tour" on page 1 Thank You to CFBA 2009 Annual Meeting Sponsors tion of small and familyowned dairies in Connecticut and across the country. The bipartisan caucus includes 89 members from every region of the country and was instrumental in securing $350 million in federal emergency funding to assist struggling Mavis Collins speaks with Congressman dairy farmers. Courtney at Collins Powder Hill Farm. Sustaining Sponsor Nationwide® Insurance Platinum Sponsor First Pioneer Farm Credit, ACA Gold Sponsor e-Benefits Group Northeast, LLC Silver Sponsors Northeast SARE The Farmer’s Cow Capital Bankcard Fieldworks CT LLC CT Farm Risk Management Guida’s Milk & Ice Cream (RMA) 1st Annual Litchfield Hills Winter Wine Trail Visit the six participating wineries on the Litchfield Hills Winter Wine Trail between December 1st and March 15th and be entered into a Grand Prize drawing. Pick up a free registration card at: Connecticut Valley Winery 1480 Litchfield Tpk. New Hartford Jerram Winery 535 Town Hill Rd., Rt. 219 New Hartford Haight-Brown Vineyard 29 Chestnut Hill Rd. Litchfield Hopkins Vineyard 25 Hopkins Rd. New Preston Miranda Vineyard 42 Ives Rd. Goshen Sunset Meadow Vineyards 599 Old Middle St. Goshen Use the registration card as a guide through the trail. Have it signed at each winery. Upon visiting all six wineries, turn in your card for entry into the drawing to be held on March 23rd. • Grand prize: Overnight stay at a Litchfield County inn • Second prize: Family 4-pack lift pass for Ski Sundown • Third prize: Dinner at a Litchfield County restaurant Contact Tina Torizzo at 860-307-5426 or [email protected] The Lyman Farm, Inc. Stanton Equipment, Inc. Bronze Sponsors Ag Sales Plus, LLC Ag Service, Inc. Big Boy’s Toys, LLC CAROVAIL Cargill-Nutrena Central CT Co-op Farmers Association Crop Production Services Hartford County Farm Bureau and Suffield Veterinary Hospital Monsanto Mycogen Seeds Hull Forest Products New Haven County Farm Bureau IBA, Inc. Prides Corner Farms, Inc. Kahn Tractor & Equipment Inc. Running Brook Farms Lakeside Feed Little “B “Barn Tulmeadow Farms The W.I. Clark Company Windham County Farm Middlesex County Farm Bureau and Wauregan E. Draghi & Sons Farms, LLC Bureau, Allegra Farm Grain Company, Inc. House & Carriage Service, Energy Plus Airline Farm, eBenefits ER Electric Motor Repair Group, Greenbacker Farm, In memory of Walter Foskett Equipment, Inc. Adametz, Sr., Maple Breeze Gary’s Tire Sales Farm, Roberts Chrysler Griffin Greenhouse & Dodge, Stone Pasture Farm, Nursery Supplies Sweetwater Maple Farm Desjardins Farm