Join the Midwest Organic Center team for a comprehensive overview of using cover crops in a row crop system. This webinar will cover some benefits and challenges of using cover crops and dive into some basics like planting, termination, and equipment. We will also discuss selecting species for a diverse mixture, livestock grazing, and share relevant data from the MOC’s Diverse Systems Trial.

In 1997, cucumber beetle trap prototypes were tested at Hungry Hollow Farms in Yolo Co., CA, which is north of Winters and west of Woodland. Based on these tests, a modified trap was developed in 1998. The chief characteristics of this trap…

This publication, produced by the Community Alliance with Family Farmers & University of California, Davis, highlights California's agricultural diversity while warning of growing climate threats. The report covers topics including soil health, cover cropping, no-till & reduced tillage practices, composting, mulching, integrating livestock, and farmscaping as strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Managing soil fertility doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. In this workshop from the 38th Annual California Small Farm Conference, we demonstrate a suite of free, easy-to-use online tools that any farmer can use to improve nutrient use efficiency, reduce costs, minimize nutrient loss to the environment, and support soil health management practices.

To test the hypothesis that the root-feeding insect, grape phylloxera, does less damage in organically managed vs. conventionally managed vineyards, soil and root samples were taken from vineyards in northern California. Greenhouse grown gr…

This USDA factsheet outlines federal requirements for certified organic livestock production. It covers animal welfare standards, prohibited substances, feed requirements, and disease prevention and treatment protocols. It also details ruminant pasture standards — including a minimum 120-day grazing season and 30 percent dry matter from pasture — and highlights environmental and animal health benefits of organic management.

Join the University of Idaho for a webinar on financial and business development resources for farmers. Learn about how to apply for and obtain loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA), as well as the AgWest Farm Credit Program, which provides financing to farmers and ranchers in the West.

This study looked at the potential for diverse plantings to harbor beneficial insects and vineyard pests. From March 15 through the 1997 growing season, intensive weekly sampling of herbivorous insects—including leafhoppers and thrips—and t…

This guide, produced by Brian Baker, Brigid Meints, and Patrick Hayes of Oregon State University, examines organic and naked (hull-less) barley production through producer surveys, interviews, and economic analysis. Despite barley's rotation and soil health benefits, economic barriers — particularly limited markets and low prices — constrain adoption.

Join Mark Schonbeck and Diana Jerkins for Part 4 of the “Soil Health and Organic Farming” webinar series by the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) and eOrganic. Learn about selecting the best cover crops, mixes, and management methods for soil health, including crop rotations and cropping system biodiversity.

As a critical component to the sustainability of both transitioning and organic citrus orchards it is important to understand the impact of foliar dust deposits on the survival of insectary reared Aphytis melinus and Metaphycus helvolus use…

This guide, produced by ATTRA NCAT, covers harvest timing, fruit quality assessment, disease management, postharvest handling, and marketing for high tunnel table grape production. It highlights research showing that high tunnels significantly improve yield and reduce disease pressure, and identifies niche direct-to-consumer markets where locally grown table grapes can command premium prices.