Passages

Sustainable Food and Farming Systems

Newsletter of the
Pennsylvania
Association
for Sustainable
Agriculture

Serving the Community of Sustainable Farmers, Consumers and Businesses Throughout Pennsylvania and Beyond
Number 71 March/April 2008

Peas in a Pod Produce using their own products.

“Some are home recipes, some we find
Three sisters working to bring country farms to their urban neighborhood online, and some we find digging through
our cookbooks,” Karen says speaking of
By Lori Baer, PASA Member what they appreciate themselves. soups such as lemon chicken and lentil.
Off for a weekend drive to local farms, “I want to tell my customers where this
the young sisters pile into the back of their came from, the name of the farm, and the Membership Matters
parents’ car like three peas in a pod. Mom name of the farmer,” says Kristan, also a Aside from deliciously fresh produce and
and dad stock up on fruits and veggies and former nurse. “I want to be able to say: ‘I savory homemade soups, it’s an old-fash-
chit chat with farmers, while the city girls work with this farmer, I sell his/her goods at ioned, personal touch that defines the Peas
soak in the country setting and nibble from my store.’” in a Pod experience — from carrying pack-
farm to farm — berries, tomatoes, can- The sisters apply the same care to picking ages to cars to washing fruit for customers’
taloupe, apples. A bite of any of these today produce for their store as they do for their immediate enjoyment to discussing the
sends the women back to country times as own families. Susan found their corn suppli- importance of locally grown products for
children; each season with its own delicious er by driving around, spotting a cornfield, healthy communities.
flavors and memories. and following the field to the farmer. During The sisters credit PASA membership as a
Simple farm-fresh pleasures are what the winter they refine sources and scout new link to like-minded businesses and suppliers,
Susan Bailey, Karen Dooley, and Kristan products, and Kristan mentions how the as a way to support Pennsylvania’s farmers,
Coyle — owner-sisters of Peas in a Pod Pro- Buy Fresh Buy Local website proved essential and as a source of information they can share
duce — hope to capture for themselves, to making quality connections. with patrons.
their parents, and their community. Their The market supplements produce with “It educates me so that I can educate my
corner produce market, located in Glenside dry goods such as honey, maple syrup, and customers. People come to us and look to us
(Montgomery Co. PA), opened June 15, jelly. They also prepare fruit and vegetable as educators,” explains Kristan, a PASA
2007, and is founded on country memories trays and make soups during winter months continued page 10
with their parents shopping for the best tast-
Peas in a Pod Produce founders and sisters: Kristan Coyle, Susan Bailey & Karen Dooley in front
ing fruits and vegetables available. Upon
of their store located in Glenside, Pennsylvania. The three are striving to bring farm-fresh, local
receiving their parents’ inheritance after
products to their urban neighborhood.
their mother’s passing, the sisters wanted to
do something special with the money. Susan
had a vision.
“She mentioned she wanted to open a
store, and I went along with it thinking it
would be a passing phase for her,” jokes
Karen, a former teacher’s aide.
“I had trouble finding good local produce
in the area, I was a nurse working nights and
looking for a change, and my parents both
died before they really got to enjoy their
retirement,” Susan explains. “We thought
what could we do to honor them? It all came
together into where we are now.”
Grand Opening
Today the sisters bring country farms to
their urban neighborhood. The store focuses
on locally grown, sourcing product from
Pennsylvania farmers as much as possible.
The sisters want to give to the community
 Pennsylvania Association
for Sustainable Agriculture
March/April 2008
114 West Main Street
P.O. Box 419
Millheim PA 16854
Phone: (814) 349-9856 • Fax: (814) 349-9840
Website: www.pasafarming.org 1 Peas in a Pod Produce
Passages STAFF & OFFICE 3 New Directors Welcomed
Staff Editor: Michele Gauger
to PASA Board
Layout: C Factor
Advertising Sales: Michele Gauger,
4 Conference Review
PASA office, michele@pasafarming.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 6 Director’s Corner

Mary Barbercheck, Centre County
David Bingaman, Dauphin County 7 Board Perspective
Melanie Dietrich Cochran, Cumberland County
Jennifer Halpin, Cumberland County The sisters of Peas in a Pod Produce, cover story
8 Regional Marketing
John Hopkins, Columbia County
John Jamison, Westmoreland County
Don Kretschmann, Beaver County 11 Consumer Outreach
Christopher Lent, Luzerne County
Jeff Mattocks, Dauphin County 12 Educational Outreach
Sandra Miller, Cumberland County
Susan Miller, Chester County 13 The Importance of Micronutrients
Brian Moyer, Berks County
Rita Resick, Somerset County in Growing Great Tomatoes
Louise Schorn Smith, Chester County
Kim Seeley, Bradford County 14 Fundraising Update
At-Large Board Member 16 Membership Update
Jamie Moore, Allegheny County

PASA STAFF
17 Editor’s Corner: The Grapevine
PASA Headquarters
Phone: 814-349-9856 18 Classified Ads
Brian Snyder
Executive Director 22 Calendar Educational Outreach, page 12
brian@pasafarming.org
Lauren Smith 23 Membership Form
Director of Development
lauren@pasafarming.org
Allison Shauger
Educational Outreach Director
allison@pasafarming.org
Michele Gauger
Director of Membership & Research Assistant Growing Great Tomatoes,
michele@pasafarming.org page 13
Brandi Marks
Office Coordinator/Bookkeeper
brandi@pasafarming.org
Carrie Gillespie
Bookkeeping Assistant
carrie@pasafarming.org Passages March/April 2008 Contributors
Consumer Outreach Contributing writers and photographers: Marilyn Anthony, Lori Baer, Steve Bogash, Chris Fullerton, Julie Hurst,
Phone: 412-246-0990 Julie Inman, Louise Schorn Smith, Kim Seeley, Allison Shauger, Lauren Smith, Brian Snyder, Leah Tewksbury.
Chris Fullerton
Director of Consumer Outreach
chris@pasafarming.org
PASA’s Mission is… PASA in the News
Southeast Regional Office Promoting profitable farms which produce Have you seen articles about PASA in your local news-
Phone: 610-458-5700 x305 healthy food for all people while respecting the papers or other media? PASA is active across the state,
Marilyn Anthony natural environment. and we’d love to know what coverage we are getting
Southeastern Regional Director
marilyn@pasafarming.org PASA is an organization as diverse as the Pennsylvania in your area. Please clip any articles you see on PASA
landscape. We are seasoned farmers who know that and mail them to our Millheim headquarters to the
Western Regional Office sustainability is not only a concept, but a way of life. attention of Office Coordinator Brandi Marks.
Phone: 412-697-0411 We are new farmers looking for the fulfillment of land
Julie Inman
stewardship. We are students and other consumers, Do you have a great
Marketing Manager
anxious to understand our food systems and the
julie@pasafarming.org article idea for Passages?
choices that must be made. We are families and chil-
Sarah Young Want to share a farming practice with members? We’d
Program Assistant dren, who hold the future of farming in our hands.This
love to hear from you. Please contact the newsletter
sarah@pasafarming.org is an organization that is growing in its voice on behalf
staff at newsletter@pasafarming.org.
Zinat Naderi of farmers in Pennsylvania and beyond. Our mission is
Program Assistant achieved, one voice, one farm, one strengthened com- Deadline for May/June 2008 Issue:
pasawester@pasafarming.org munity at a time. April 21, 2008

PASA is an Equal Opportunity Service Provider and Employer. Some grant funding comes from the USDA and com-
plaints of discrimination should be sent to: USDA Office of Civil Rights, Washington, DC 20250-9410.
Passages is printed on recycled paper

2
PASA News
He is excited about opportunities, having
New Directors served as a director since 2002, PASA
offers to its members and beyond. He
Welcomed to PASA Board would encourage all to take the opportu-
PASA’s 2008 Board of Directors election process began at the annual conference in early nity to break dormancy, follow your pas-
February and continued through March 8th with our absentee balloting system. We are please sions and to share new ideas and dreams.
to announce the winners, with their biographies included below. We strive to have representa- He feels that farming has the power to
tion on the board from all sectors of agriculture and all regions of Pennsylvania. bring to life those who bring the Earth to
New board officers were elected at the April 4th board meeting in State College, Pennsyl- life through sustainable practices and
vania (after this issue went to press). We will announce the new board officers in the May/June service to others.
issue of Passages, but anyone wishing to know those results immediately may contact PASA
“We are witnessing a new dawn in
headquarters at 814-349-9856.
agriculture with the promise of sustain-
ability. It goes without saying that it has
Melanie Dietrich Cochran grow, process and market grass fed beef, been a great privilege to serve you as a
Cumberland County lamb, pork, pastured poultry and eggs, all director and I would look forward to
Melanie Dietrich sold directly to a loyal customer base. continuing to do so.”
Cochran grew up milking During the growing season they run the
Jersey cows on her par- on-farm, producers only, Forks Farm Christopher Lent
ents’ farm in Cumberland Market where over a dozen vendors pro- Luzerne County
County. She returned to vide organic vegetables, meats, Alaskan Since 1997, Chris Lent has operated a
the farm in 1997 and salmon, organic breads, coffee, grass diverse, organic vegetable operation on
helped to milk while working off-farm based milk and dairy products, PA farm- his family’s farm in Luzerne County. He
jobs. Her first PASA conference in 1997 stead cheeses, fruit and fresh, value added sells his produce through a CSA and
introduced her to cheesemaking. In July foods made locally. In addition to run- farmers’ markets as well as to local health
2001, she began making cheese and ning Forks Farm, John works as a con- food stores and restaurants.
farming full-time. sulting forester for private landowners. Over the past ten years, Chris has ded-
Currently, Melanie, along with her John has served on the board since icated his time and energy to establishing
mother and husband, milk 40 registered 2002 and is interested in representing his farm while educating his community
Jersey cows and make 11 varieties of farmers trying to farm sustainably and about the benefits of a local, seasonal
aged, raw milk cheeses, three types of market their products in their communi- food system. Chris’ persistence, determi-
fresh cheeses and yogurt. They hold a ties. John feels that the challenges PASA nation, and sacrifice have allowed him to
customer-container raw milk permit and members face in developing local food find local markets for his organic produce
have started a dairy CSA. They also sell systems are never ending. The rising in a rural part of northeast Pennsylvania.
their cheeses at producer-only farmers’ impact of PASA, however, on agricultur- In 2006, Chris hosted a PASA field day
markets in Washington, D.C. and al policy and consumer awareness is very on his farm covering construction and
Carlisle, PA. Melanie is a strong support- exciting. use of hoop houses.
er of the Farm-Based Education pro- “There has never been a more exciting “I have attended and benefited greatly
grams at PASA and feels that it is a great time to be involved with PASA in fulfill- from PASA events and I feel it is now
resource tool for small farmers. Melanie ing our mission to help support Penn- time for me to give back in the form of
has served on the PASA Conference Plan- sylvania’s sustainable farming community my time and energies. No organization
ning Committee for three years and has and Pennsylvania consumers.” has done so much to promote sustainable
been instrumental in developing the farming in Pennsylvania, and I would like
Thursday “Art of Cheese” track. She is Don Kretschmann a chance to use what I’ve learned to help
president of the Pennsylvania Farmstead Beaver County PASA achieve its mission.”
and Artisan Cheese Alliance. Don Kretschmann
“PASA has helped provide answers to and his wife, Becky, have Susan Miller
how to keep a small family farm and I operated an 80-acre Chester County
welcome a chance to serve on the board diversified organic veg- Sue Miller is a first
and give back to the best family farm etable and fruit farm in western Pennsyl- generation dairy farmer
organization I’ve seen.” vania for 30 years. In the past, they have milking 70 cows on her
marketed their products through whole- family’s Birchrun Hills
sale operations and farmers’ markets. Farm. Sue crafts raw milk cheeses from
John Hopkins They grow 20 acres of produce with the her dairy herd and direct markets the
Columbia County help of 10 seasonal employees. Currently, cheeses through farmers’ markets, restau-
John Hopkins and his wife, Todd, their distribution is primarily through a rants and specialty cheese shops. Sue also
own and operate Forks Farm in Colum- CSA, one of the largest in the country. works to educate farmers about sustain-
bia County, PA. Forks Farm is a 151-acre Don finds inspiration, encouragement ability and adding value to their products
grass-based livestock operation. They and enrichment in the PASA community. continued page 9

3
Conference Review
2008 Conference Meals
The ingredients for the meals served during the conference were gathered from supportive farmers,
processors and distributors. Thanks to our providing farms and businesses.
Albert’s Organics Horizon Organic Natural By Nature Snyder’s of Hanover
Organic Produce…and lots of it! Organic Half & Half, Yogurt & Organic Whipped Cream, Ricotta, Half Organic Honey Wheat Sticks,
Smoothies, Cheese Sticks, Individual & Half, Cheddar Cheese, Sour Cream, Oat Bran Sticks, Pumpernickel & Onion
Birchrun Hills Farm Milks & Whole Milk Sticks and Peanut Butter Pretzel
Birchrun Blue (a natural rind blue Sandwiches
cheese) & Alpine (a nutty cheese)
Inn To The Seasons Nature’s Best Organic Feed
Goats Milk Ricotta Organic Heritage Chickens Stone Meadow Farm
Clif Bar Inc. Brie, Cheddar, Colby & Swiss Cheeses
Keswick Creamery Nature’s Pantry
Clif Bar Nectar Bars Natural Yogurt & Wallaby, Vermeer & Natural Sodas, Crackers & Tofu Stonyfield Farm Yogurt
Dragons Breath Cheeses Organic Yogurt & Yogurt Snacks
Country Time Farm New Morning Farm
Sweet Italian Sausage Kettle Foods Apples & Apple Cider Sunny Ridge Farm
Organic Corn & Potato Chips, Peanut Organic Carrots
Dream Thyme Farm Butter Old School Snacks
Fresh Chevon Wild Rice & Sesame Snacks Tait Farm Foods
Landisdale Farm Vinaigrettes, Chutneys, Fruit Shrubs &
Deep Root Organics Organic Green Cabbage & Turnips Organic Valley Chocolate Sauces
Organic Carrots & Red Potatoes Family of Farms
Lavender Hill Organic Swiss, Provolone, Cheddar, Triangle Organics Farm
Eberly Poultry Organic Basil, Cilantro, Oregano, Mozzarella & Munster, Cream Cheese, Grass-fed Beef, Ground
Organic Heritage Chickens Parsley & Rosemary Stringles, Orange Juice & Butter
Tuscarora Organic
Furmano Foods, Inc. Lehman’s Eggs Painted Hand Farm Growers Cooperative (TOG)
Organic Eggs Fresh Chevon Bounty from many of their organic
Tomato & Bean Products cooperative farms!
Leidy’s Nature’s Tradition Phillips Mushroom Farms
Hardwick Beef & Naturally Raised Pork Loin Organic Portabella, Shiitake & Other Vollmecke Orchards & CSA
Leona Meat Plant Exotic Mushrooms Apple Butter & Pumpkin Butter
Grass-fed Beef Leraysville Cheese Factory
Mild, Cajun & Sharp Cheddar, Smoky Porter Farm Whole Foods Market
Hidden Hills Jerseys Delight & Somiliar Cheeses Organic Red & Yellow Onions Locally Roasted Coffee from
Havarti Style Ivory Lace, Gouda Style One Village Coffee
Milky Way Farms Quiet Creek Herb Farm
Gouda Gold & Colby Style Temptation rbST-free Milk, Chocolate Milk, Ice Whole Grain Breads Wild For Salmon
Cheeses Cream, Heavy Cream Wild-Caught Salmon, Smoked
Rippling Brooke Farm
Honest Tea Mother Earth Mushrooms Organic Russian Banana Fingerling Windy Knolls Farm
Real Tea—Honest Tea! Organic Button Mushrooms Potatoes Organic Parsnips

Arias M. Brownback Scholarship Recipients Farming for the Future

By Allison Shauger Notes
We asked the fifty individuals who attended the 2008 Farming for the Future ! Save the date!
conference as Arias M. Brownback Memorial Scholarship recipients to share their PASA’s 18th Annual
thoughts on their experiences. Overwhelmingly, recipients expressed appreciation Farming for the Future Conference
for the opportunity to attend. February 5, 6 & 7, 2009
In keeping with the conference theme, Ready to Grow: Sharing the Sustainable Penn Stater Conference Center
State College, PA
Story, we would like to share some of the scholarship recipients’ sentiments and
feedback. Many farmers reported that the conference reaffirmed their sense of ! Volunteers for Conference
purpose and inspired them to continue to develop specific goals related to their Planning Committee Sought
farm business. These farmers are ready to grow, indeed. “The conference is such Would you like to be involved in devel-
an unusually wonderful collection of intention-filled farmers, that it fills me up oping the conference program? If so,
how about joining the conference com-
with hope, comfort, and creative excitement.” In recounting workshops that
mittee? We meet three times from May
recipients found beneficial someone remarked, “The conference gave me more to August in State College to decide and
confidence to address these issues in other settings.” This comment is perhaps one organize the content of workshops and
of the most valuable confirmations of why the Brownback Scholarship Fund is pre-conference tracks. If you have the
crucial to our network of farmers. time and energy to devote to this excit-
Nearly all of the feedback we received outlined ways in which these grateful ing planning committee, contact Allison
Shauger, allison@pasafarming.org, 814-
participants are going to share the information they learned within their com-
349-9856.
munities. As the scholarship recipients testified, the PASA conference radiates
inspiration and it is contagious. These conference attendees are on their farms ! 2008 Conference CDs & DVDs
continuing to write their sustainable stories and will be sharing their newfound are Available
skills, confidence, and ideas with others throughout the year. Keynote addresses and workshop
recordings are available courtesy of
Thanks to all who contributed to this important fund enabling farmers to
Cocalico Audio — 717-336-4179. The
grow and develop their ideas and skills. Anyone interested in contributing to the order form is also available on the PASA
fund, visit www.pasafarming.org or call 814-349-9856. website, www.pasafarming.org.

4
Conference Review
Deans Hall is a hub of conference activity, with the Charity Auction,
morning breakfasts, evening social hours, as well as the Patron and

PASA Conference Platinum Sponsor booths.

Benefit Auction a Success

By Michele Gauger, Conference Auction Coordinator
“You have some many items! There is so much to
choose from! It is amazing how much is donated!” Those
were just some of the comments heard during the annual
Benefit Auction held during the recent PASA conference.
With over 170 items generously donated from various
PASA member businesses, farms, individuals and friends
— we were able to raise $22,136 for the organization. See
below for a full list acknowledging all those who donated items. Julie Mason Shared Earth Farm
PASA continued to offer our trio of auctions in 2008 to include
Tracy & Jeff Mattocks Slow Food Pittsburgh
Bag (raffle style), Silent and Live formats. Items ranged from artisan
Maryann & Dennis Small Dairy.com
crafts, soaps, dinner and vacation packages, useful farm products, Mawhinney
books, clothing, antiques, even food items like pastured eggs and Small Farm Central
McGeary Organics Inc.
meats — in addition to one of the pastured poultry pens built during Misty Dell Farm/ Pen and
Soil Secret Inc.
our Thursday Pre-Conference Poultry track. Thread Spiral Path Farm
Friday night showcased the Live Auction with PASA member and Stacy Miller Spotted Hill Farm
auctioneer, Brian Magaro. The generosity of our members shined and Monogram Centre Spoutwood Farm Center
we were able to raise a total of $4,640 for the eight items sold. During Moyer Moyer’s Chicks Inc. Steam Valley Fiber Farm
this auction we always include a few items with proceeds benefiting the Debbie & Bill Murphy Stonyfield Farm Yogurt
Arias M. Brownback Scholarship Fund. This year two items were auc-
Natural Acres Suella Pipal
tioned; a case of Spiral Path Farm special edition roasted Cubanelle
Nature’s Pantry Sue’s Salves
peppers and a hand-blown glass vase donated by Ona Bella Magaro.
Needmore Land Cattle
This year we were able to raise $4,200 for the scholarship fund to help Farm
Sugar Valley Farm
beginning farmers attend the conference each year. Neptune’s Harvest Anthony Rodale
PASA appreciates all those who participated in the auction, The Rodale Institute
Nina Planck & Real Food
including those who donated and purchased items and tickets. Harriet Rosenberg
Dotty Noble
North Star Orchard Joseph Schott
Northeast SARE Caroline Shauger
PASA Charity Dairyland Sales & Service Hahn Natural Foods PA Chapter — Nancy Shorsher
Auction Donors The American Chestnut
Karen Daystar Harris Seeds Foundation Lauren & Ian Smith
Aaronsburg Pottery Suzanne DeMuth Healing Spirits Herb Tait Farm Foods
PA Dept. of Environmental
Acres USA Dream Thyme Farm Farm & Education Center Protection Tamarack Farm
Adams County Winery Dripworks Health by Choice PA Farm Vacation Associa- Trenderway Farm
All-Clad Metalcrafters, Inc The Healthy Living Kitchen tion
Earth Tools Harvey Ussery
American Livestock Herbal Delights Pat Little Images
Eat’n Park Hospitality Vermont Compost
Breeds Conservancy Horizon Organic/ Patti Olenick
Group Company
American Pastured WhiteWave Foods Peaceful Pastures LLC
Poultry Producers Effie’s Common Scents Village Acres
Sue & Joel Hubler Peaceful Valley Farm
Associatiom (APPPA) Fedco Seeds/ Susan Vreeland
Shooting Star Farm Carl Hursh Supply
Janine Andrews
Indian Orchards Penn Stater Conference Watershed Agricultural
Marilyn Anthony Fertrell Company
Center Hotel Council NY
Flint Hill Farm Infinity Design Studios
Bearlin Acres Penns Creek Pottery Weston A. Price
Educational Center Jamison Farm
Chef Willy Benedetto Phillips Mushroom Farms Foundation
Kathleen Frank Jerry Jackson Fine Pewter
Briar Patch Farm The Organic White Dog Cafe
Friends Farm Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Carnegie Museum of Art Mechanics Soil Co. Mary Whittam
Full Circle Farms Josephine Porter Institute
Chelsea Green Publishing Organic Valley Family of Whole Foods Market
Gatski Metal Keswick Creamery Farms
Gene Chenoweth Diane Wiest
Michele Gauger Kretschmann Farm Otto’s Pub & Brewery
Chesapeake Bay
Foundation Donald Gibbon Lady Moon Farms Quiet Creek Herb Farm Wild for Salmon
Cocalico Audio Glasshorse Studio Lakeview Organic Grain Sayre Mansion Wolf Lake Farm
Cold Brand Glynwood Center Lambert Mountain Acres Schafer Fish Fertilizer Woodsong Hollow
Cooking for Real Terry Golson Leona Meat Plant Seedway LLC Adrienne Young
Cottage Rose Interiors Green Gables Restaurant Manatawny Creek Winery The Settlers Inn Anonymous Donor

5
Director’s Corner
Farms, Food
and our So-Called
Health System
By Brian Snyder, Executive Director
This is an election year and the big
issues of our day are getting much need-
ed attention, though an ominous sense
that all the solutions are too expensive has
already begun to dampen spirits that had
been hopeful for meaningful change.
As for me, I’ve been listening to talk
about health care. Of course the discus-
sion focuses mostly on how to pay for it,
not whether or not we are really making
much progress in terms of people getting
healthier. My interest in the subject
comes in part because I’ve reached a
point in my own life when health con-
cerns begin to take center stage.
Recently, my attention was riveted
even more when I received a call from my
mother in which she explained that, in
response to some unrelenting pain she
had been experiencing, one doctor said
she should get her knee replaced and
another said she should have back sur-
gery. Say what!? How can we consider
such radical inconsistency in a supposed-
ly mature field of science as progress of
any kind?
This incident reminded me of my
own experience a couple years ago when
dealing with some severe pain in my right
shoulder. Going to the doctor with a
clear sense of pain is like taking your car
to the garage when it’s making an obvious
clunking sound, at least you expect some
kind of succinct answer…or so I thought.
To make a long story short, several
trips to different specialists yielded incon-
clusive results, though I did help to pay
for an awful lot of medical equipment
along the way. One surgeon’s assistant
even called my home, hoping they could
get a crack at what was ailing me.
The problem, it seemed, was most
likely in my neck. But I escaped going
“under the knife” because of a highly sci-
entific process whereby I was asked on a
scale of 1 to 10 how much pain I was
experiencing. I reported that I had been
at 9 or 10 for several days, but by the
time all these appointments and tests
were concluded, the status was more like
a 6. That, it turns out, was not enough to
operate, and I should expect to get by
with appropriate pharmacological inter-
vention, i.e. pain medicine.
I tell these stories to make the point
that modern medicine has gotten awfully
good at collecting voluminous informa-
tion and pinpointing problems within a
fairly narrow range, but perhaps no better
through the decades at fully understand-
ing what’s really going on with human
physiology…to the point where two doc-
tors can still easily disagree on what part
of the body should be surgically repaired.
Most anyone close to my age will
remember the curmudgeonly ways of Dr.
Leonard McCoy on the old Star Trek tel-
evision series. He could use his instru-
ments to scan for data across the body,
whether human or alien, then step back,
seemingly to see the whole organism as
greater than its parts, and make a diagno-
sis that was usually spot-on.
Dr. McCoy was like the wise old
country doctor meeting up with the most
modern technology, right brain and left
put together in one package. Well, the
technological side of this fictional science
has come true pretty much as depicted.
So where did the intuitive and, some
would say, holistic side of medicine go?
The situation with modern health
care, to my mind, is not unlike that of so
many other areas of grave concern these
days…global climate change and interna-
tional relations just to name two of the
most critical ones. Of course we could fit
agriculture right into the same conversa-
tion…so much knowhow out there, and
so little know-where, when or why.
Fact is, we’re now very good at
6
describing the situations we face, but
almost bankrupt when it comes to under-
standing and, perhaps more importantly,
adopting systems that could lead to posi-
tive change.
I suspect that in many ways our socie-
ty has fallen victim to a sort of self-
induced amnesia whereby we have lost
the ability to collectively think big
thoughts, either because we cannot or
choose not to do so…the jury is still out
as to which is the case. When assessing
the situation, however, it’s impossible not
to notice that our current “systems” of
caring for our health, the environment,
world peace or farms all come at great
profit to a few individuals and detriment
to the many.
When it comes to sustainable food
and farming systems, we fortunately have
had the help of a few “visionaries” (I
doubt they would call themselves such)
who have helped our society as a whole to
think some rather large thoughts, includ-
ing Michael Pollan (Omnivore’s Dilemma,
In Defense of Food), Eric Schlosser (Fast
Food Nation) and even Morgan Spurlock
(Supersize Me). There have of course been
many other, more compelling visionaries,
but few who have achieved the popular
success of these three in getting us to
understand why the way we farm and
feed ourselves affects the way we feel.
What will it take, I am left wondering,
to recover (if we ever really had it) a true
sense of the connection between farms,
food and the health of our people? One
thing I am sure of is that it would be no
mere incremental step in the history of
medical science. There is no single exper-
iment, scientific paper or government
policy that will take us where we need to
go…and I don’t think we should believe
any politician looking for our votes or
practitioner profiting from the system as
it is who would tell us otherwise.
But here is something of which I am
also virtually certain. If the day finally
arrives when a good farmer is viewed as
just as important to our health as a good
doctor, we probably will have found the
solution to climate change and world
peace as well. !
PASA Board Perspective
Spring
Renewal
By Kim Seeley, Board President
Spring is upon us and just in time! I
try to endure winter, but it is not the sea-
son to prosper on a dairy farm. Our most
expensive food is produced during win-
ter. Ironically, it is sometimes the lowest
quality food we produce all year.
Thirty years ago, I would have argued
with anyone that all milk was virtually
the same. As the years have passed, I now
realize a simple reality – all food is not the
same. Methods of production and pro-
cessing have an important impact on
what is produced.
In the dairy industry, less than 50% of
the milk produced is used for fluid con-
sumption. The rest of the volume is man-
ufactured into something with a longer
shelf life. Over the years, our cooperatives
have encouraged us to produce consistent
amounts every season. Is that sustainable?
For industry it is, but not for dairy farm-
ers. Sure it keeps those big food factories
at efficient production. Sure it simplifies
trucking. Sure it looks good on a spread-
sheet for a new expansion. However,
what the farmer gets is fool’s gold.
Luckily my college training had a
heavy emphasis on economics. Most
dairy farmers trust the economics to
someone who has probably never milked
a cow or forked any manure. If you aren’t
breaking your income and expense down
into seasonal snapshots you really don’t
know your actual winter costs. You can
rationalize the need for steady income
and labor utilization, but to be objective
you must seriously look at the high cost
of energy in the winter months.
For years we have been able to smooth
out the seasonal energy demands when
fuel prices were stable, but those days are
gone forever. Grass-based systems are the
natural fit for our area. Grass-based farm-
ing can revitalize farms, which have
become fuel and grain dependent. If you
are trying to change, find someone to
help you get off the conventional merry-
go-round. Contact PASA to help if you
aren’t sure who to get in touch with.
Dairy farming is entering a crisis
stage. This past week I talked with many
farmers and supply people I trust. The
story is the same. We are in a false econ-
omy right now – “ethanol insanity;” mas-
sive agricultural debt propping up a
failing system; market manipulation by
consolidation among raw material sup-
pliers; denial among leaders about the
real problems with food we produce,
which is much like the denial about glob-
al warming; and government subsidies
(welfare) to ex-farmers and landowners to
not produce (i.e. the Conservation
Reserve Program), instead of paying the
money to the farmers who are still farm-
ing and who could multiply the money
into long term community growth. Some
of the policies are short sighted, but I feel
some are intentionally trying to further
centralize our food system.
In recent weeks, Colony Collapse Dis-
order (CCD) has been receiving more
press and much of it has centered on
Hackenberg Apiaries located in Lewis-
burg, PA. Dave Hackenberg is credited
with first sounding the alarm about the
emerging bee crisis. He has found a
chemical trail and industrial roadblocks
to defining the problem, even though
many experts have their opinions.
Dave and I have been friends since the
mid 1990’s when he would bring bees
into our area for the local fruit growers.
While talking to him recently, he shared
a very real situation that all of us need to
help solve. He describes beekeeping as
“The ugly step child of agriculture.”
Everyone wants bees to come and work
without considering the bees. As sprawl
and wealthy landowners have demanded
“not in my backyard,” it has become
7
increasingly hard to maintain bees. Bees
are an indicator species, and their health
has been declining for a long time. The
economics and long hours of beekeeping,
much like dairy farming, have forced out
most small keepers. This has increased
the intensity and need for the large bee
operations, stressing both the owners and
their bees.
Ultimately as we analyze the crisis
we are in, we find the biggest problem is
also the only hope — PEOPLE. The
current emergency in the food industry is
about greedy people in too many leader-
ship positions.
I get phone calls from good people,
struggling to stay positive about their
jobs because of the massive resources they
see being funneled to maintain the cur-
rent food system, which leaders won’t
admit is broken. In the last year I have lis-
tened to people from several state and
federal ag-related agencies, even Ag
Choice Farm Credit, venting to me that
they can’t understand why their compa-
nies aren’t solving more problems. Many
have left their jobs or are wishing to.
For those of you who have changed
and moved on to other callings, tell your
story so others don’t feel so alone. Each
and every one of us, who understands real
sustainability is important for what we
know. You are important pieces in a very
special puzzle that we each call our
worldly journey.
For those of you who remain, let the
spring sunshine renew you. Those of you
who are in this situation are the piers in
the ocean of farming that we all need to
connect with. Stay in your jobs, because
if we lose the many good stewards we
have, we let the wave of complacent and
unethical people build even more
momentum.
What all of agriculture needs right
now are good, honest people to stand up,
tell your stories, and assert that our
actions will be the solution. You all are
PASA spokespeople. Please use your
walks in life to create the solutions we
need. Please stand up in your workplace
against legal corruption and injustice.
Please help PASA define and defend what
sustainable farm systems should really
look like. !
Regional Marketing
NORTHCENTRAL
REGION
Annual Northcentral Potluck
a Success!
By Leah Tewskbury,
Volunteer Regional Coordinator
Nearly 70 PASA members from the
northcentral and eastern regions gathered
for a delicious potluck supper at Jeremi-
ah’s in Williamsport on March 11th. As
the potluckers arrived, we were greeted
with lovely dulcimer music played live by
PASA’s Alf Bashore. An update on the
Susquehanna Valley’s Buy Fresh Buy Local
program was presented by SEDA-COG’s
Trish Carothers. After the feast, the audi-
ence watched an interesting video selec-
tion on training cows (and other
livestock) to eat certain types of invasive
weeds. The video clip, presented by Eric
Nordell, was created by Kathy Voth, a
featured speaker at the 2008 PASA con-
ference. Bucky Ziegler, a long-time PASA
member who produces certified organic
grains and meats, finished the education-
al portion of the evening by sharing tips
and insight on how he raises grass-fed
beef and poultry on his farm in Tur-
botville. As always, our annual potluck
get-together was enjoyed by all, as good
conversation and networking, outstand-
ing food and Bullfrog Brewery beer, and
useful farming information made for a
memorable evening.
SOUTHCENTRAL
REGION
By Julie Hurst,
Volunteer Regional Coordinator
Recently fifteen PASA members from
the Southcentral region met to discuss
plans for events and workshops for the
2008 season. Some workshops to watch
for include an introduction to capturing
and using solar energy with Matt
Steiman, tasting and talking heirloom
melons with Mick & Seth Kodner at
Dancing Creek Farm in Port Royal, and
learning how to best over-winter your
honeybee hive with Mary Ann Fraiser.
Other workshops are being discussed and
will be announced at a later date.
On a more celebratory note, the Local
Foods Dinner at Dickinson College is
scheduled for April 5th, the annual Fairie
Fest at Spoutwood Farm Center in
Chambersburg will take place the first
Trish Carothers, Valleys of the Susquehanna Buy Fresh Buy Local campaign manager,
spoke briefly during the annual NorthCentral region potluck. Anyone wishing to join the
campaign in the Valleys region can contact her at 570-522-7259.
weekend in May. Also Tom Perry of Per- ing.org or 412-697-0411.
rydell Farm suggested PASA members
Restaurant to Open in the
participate in Fred Fest, a celebration of
Meadville Market House
life for the benefit of cancer research on
By John Clendenin,
July 12 near York College. Details on all
PASA Member & Meadville Market
the events happening in the Southcentral
House Authority President
region this season will be announced
The Meadville Market House (in
through the regional listserv, emails and
Meadville, Crawford Co.) was built in
post-cards as details are finalized.
1870 as a marketplace for local farmers to
Enthusiasm for getting involved in
our local communities and promoting sell their goods. The building underwent
restorative change in the Southcentral some modifications in the early 1900s
with the addition of a second floor and
region was evident among those who
participated in this planning meeting and was then saved from the wrecking ball in
by all those who expressed interest but 1970.
could not attend. We encourage all The community came together to ren-
ovate the building and The Market
levels of participation from our regional
House continued to prosper as a market-
members and welcome ideas and local
place. However, as the 1980s progressed,
events to be posted through the listserv;
the downtown declined, local produce
anything from cooperative tomato can-
growers quit farming, and the Market
ning to neighborhood ice cream socials
House lost its vigor.
can be catalyst for education and change
By the first years of the 21st century,
in our rural communities and suburban
the few vendors outside were mostly
neighborhoods.
trucked-in produce hucksters, while peo-
ple selling cheap imported goods occu-
WESTERN
pied the inside. The real turnaround
REGION
began in 2004 when the Meadville Area
A reminder to members in the West- Local Growers was founded, and in 2005
ern Region who have yet to return their when the Pennsylvania Environmental
farm marketing surveys to Julie Inman, Council (through the local French Creek
Marketing Manager, please do so soon! Project) took over management of the
Those who did not receive a survey, Market House.
please contact Julie at julie@pasafarm- Alice Sjolander became the Manager
8
Regional Marketing
Wild for Salmon
Like many other organizations, the
The Meadville Market House has been a
fixture in the Crawford County community
since 1870. A new restaurant is slated to
open in the Market House in early April
with intent on serving delicious local fare.
in 2005 and began incorporating local
food offerings, higher quality craft items
and more. In the past three years, inside
sales increased 150%, mostly being food
sales. Outside, on Saturday mornings
there are generally 12 to 15 vendors sell-
ing mostly locally grown, chemical free
produce. There are local meats, eggs,
milk, produce, baked goods, honey,
maple products, Frankferd Farms prod-
ucts, other bulk foods and more for sale
inside. The market is always looking for
new vendors. Alice also operated a Com-
munity Supported Agriculture (CSA) for
senior citizens out of the Market House
last summer. Currently the Meadville
Council on the Arts occupies the second
floor. There is a gallery, a small theater, a
dance studio and their offices.
Market Authority (and the Market
House) finds itself in the situation where
expenses exceed revenues. They are
always looking for new ways to balance
this. There has been a restaurant in the
building for many years and they simply
rented space with Market House really
having no involvement.
In January, their lease was terminated
and the space was empty. The Authority
explored several options and Alice sug-
gested the market operate it. Some finan-
cial projections based on the level of
business at the prior restaurant (which
was very popular) were done, and con-
cluded that the Market House could be
self-sustaining for the foreseeable future.
In one fell swoop the project could be
sustainable, provide another outlet for
local food producers, and contribute to
the revitalization of downtown
Meadville.
Editor’s Note: At the time of press the
restaurant in The Market House was slated
to open on April 8th. The plan for the
restaurant is to gradually introduce local
foods and further enhance the existing
menu. Those local growers interested in sup-
plying the restaurant can contact John
Clendenin at 814-694-3006 or 814-336-
2056, clenjc@pennsmart.com. The
Meadville Market House is located at 910
Market St, Meadville PA 16335.
New Board Directors
continued from page 3
through the Phoenixville Countryside
Exchange, the Chester County Keep
Farming First conference, the Berks
County Agricultural Innovation Work-
shop and through PASA.
Sue is a member of the Pennsylvania
Farmstead and Artisan Cheese Alliance,
American Cheese Society, Pennsylvania
Holstein Association, Chester County
Holstein Association, PA–Women in
Agriculture Network, Pennsylvania Farm
Bureau and she is a 4-H leader. Like
many farmers across Pennsylvania over
the past ten years, Sue’s family also has
found it difficult to earn a fair living in
the dairy industry. Through her involve-
ment with PASA, her farm has been able
to thrive and prosper.
“I believe that farmers who can relate
their experiences and successes to the
industry will set an example for other
farmers to make positive changes on their
farms; a mission PASA and I share.” !
WANT TO JOIN THE BOARD?
We are always searching for mem-
bers who are interested in running
for the PASA board in the future.
If you or someone you know may
be interested, contact Brian Moyer at
610-944-9349 or brianm22@aol.com.

REGIONAL CONTACTS & DISCUSSION GROUP ADDRESSES

Discussion groups are open to PASA members only to join and discuss issues related to sustainable agriculture.
To join the group in your region, send an email to the appropriate address provided.

Western
PASAWestern-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
NorthCentral/Eastern
Julie Inman
412-697-0411 • julie@pasafarming.org

Southeastern
PASAsoutheast-subscribe@yahoogroups.com Western
Marilyn Anthony
610-458-5700 x305 • marilyn@pasafarming.org
Southeastern
Southcentral Southcentral
PASAsouthcentral-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Julie Hurst
717-734-2082 • royjulie@pa.net Out of State discussion group addresses:
NorthCentral/Eastern States North and East of Pennsylvania
PASAnorthcentralEast-subscribe@yahoogroups.com PASAOutofStateNortheast-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Leah Tewksbury States South and West of Pennsylvania
570-437-2620 • tewks1@aol.com PASASouthandWest-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

9
Peas in a Pod Produce
continued from page 1
member prior to business ownership.
“They ask: why this piece of produce
rather than that, why aren’t you selling
this, why does that cost more? I want to
be able to explain to them.”
Kristan notes that Pennsylvania grown
is important to their customers too. “Peo-
ple come into the store, and we can have
a conversation for a half hour about try-
ing to keep it local,” she says. “The actu-
al type of produce isn’t as important as
quality produce from PA. That’s what
people want.”
Business is Blooming
Much has changed since that day last
year when Susan and Kristan found
themselves on the wrap-around corner
steps of an old consignment shop think-
ing “this is the place” for their market.
Today original, creaky, wooden floors
take neighbors around to old-time cases
and benches full of Pennsylvania produce
and on past the antique hutch stocked
with jellies, dressings, and honey. Pictures
People come to us
and look to us as edu-
cators…They ask, why
this piece of producer
rather than that; why
aren’t you selling this;
why does that cost more
— I want to be able to
explain that to them
of neighborhood kids with fruits and veg-
gies taken by a local photographer bright-
en the walls, and there’s a constant buzz
of friendly chatter.
“We’ve gone from this itty bitty corner
store to where now people come in every
other day, sometimes every day, to get
their fresh produce,” Kristan said. “We
have a lot of families coming in, and we’re
getting to know our customers. We can
ADVERTISEMENT
10
rely on them and they can rely on us.”
Susan thinks her parents would be
thrilled with what her and her sisters have
done together. “I think my dad would be
here all the time,” she laughs. “He was
the one who always used to say: ‘Taste
this, this is the best you’ll ever have!’”
And while the sister’s fill up at the
store on memories of childhood farm vis-
its, perhaps they’re creating memories for
Glenside’s neighborhood kids that will
instill a taste for healthy, fresh fruits and
vegetables and a sense of stewardship for
their community and its local resources.
Peas in a Pod Produce is located at 80
S. Keswick Ave., Glenside, PA 19038, at
the intersection of Keswick & Glenside
Aves. For more information or to share
sources for locally grown and produced
products, call the store at 215-887-2719.
The market is open Monday through
Saturday 9:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m. and Sun-
day 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. !
Editor’s Note: Lori Baer is a PASA member
and freelance writer of agricultural, culi-
nary, and business topics. She lives in Wil-
low Street, PA and can be reached at
lbaer@lbaer.com
Consumer Outreach
Buy Fresh Buy Local News
www.buylocalpa.org
A new chapter of Buy Fresh Buy Local
(BFBL) has been created in the Greater
Lehigh Valley. Our goals are to educate
consumers about the benefits of buying
local food; to improve the farmer-con-
sumer connection; to increase the per-
centage of local food consumed in the
valley; to support local farmers, growers,
and producers; to increase farmland
preservation; and to keep more food dol-
lars in our community.
Future plans include recruiting mem-
bers, soliciting funding partners, creating
a display for events, creating an interac-
tive harvest calendar quiz to educate con-
sumers about the seasonal availability of
produce, launching an inaugural event
during the summer, and creating a local
food guide. To get involved with this
chapter, contact Lynn Prior at lynnpri-
or@verizon.net or 610-438-3950.
In addition to PASA’s newest local
chapter, Greater Lehigh Valley, there are
groups in Northeastern Pennsylvania and
Buy Fresh Buy Local Chapters in PA
The goal of PASA’s Buy Fresh Buy Local (BFBL) programming is to make it easier for Pennsylvania consumers to find,
choose and appreciate great local foods…and to support the farmers and lands which produce them.
! Philadelphia
Ann Karlen (Chapter Coordinator)
White Dog Community Enterprises
ann@whitedog.com or 215-386-5211 x101
! Lancaster County
Linda Aleci (Chapter Coordinator)
Local Economy Center,
F&M College
linda.aleci@fandm.edu or 717-291-4293
! Chester County
Claire Murray (Chapter Coordinator)
Inverbrook Farm
claire@inverbrook.com or 610-563-3116
! South Central PA
Susan Richards (Chapter Coordinator)
Capital RC&D
susan.richards@rcdnet.net
or 717-724-0009
Serving Adams, Bedford, Blair,
Cambria, Cumberland, Dauphin,
Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Lebanon,
Perry & York Counties
York County working on new chapter
applications. We’re also looking for vol-
unteer leaders in Centre County and
Western Pennsylvania. Interested individ-
uals should contact Chris Fullerton,
PASA’s Director of Consumer Outreach,
for more information: chris@pasafarm-
ing.org or 412-246-0990.
To help with local tasting or tabling
events, regional e-newsletter production,
local partner recruiting, and more, con-
tact one of our BFBL chapter coordina-
tors listed below. !
! Centre County
Chapter Coordinator: Volunteer Needed! *
! Valleys of the Susquehanna
Trish Carothers (Chapter Coordinator)
SEDA-COG
tcarothers@seda-cog.org or 570-522-7259
Serving Centre, Clinton, Columbia,
Juniata, Lycoming, Mifflin, Montour,
Northumberland, Snyder and Union
! Northern Tier
Ruth Tonachel (Chapter Coordinator)
N.T. Cultural Alliance
tonachel@epix.net or 570-268-4093
Serving Bradford, Potter, Sullivan, Susquehanna,
Tioga and Wyoming
! Southeast Pennsylvania
Marilyn Anthony (Chapter Coordinator)
marilyn@pasafarming.org
or 610-458-5700 x305
! Western Pennsylvania
Chapter Coordinator: Volunteer Needed! *
Serving Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler,
11
GET IN THE GUIDE!
Attention PASA members — if you
sell directly to consumers, or wholesale
a “branded” product locally, go to
www.buylocalpa.org and apply to have
your farm or business included in the
Buy Fresh Buy Local “Online Local Food
Guide.” This guide is a searchable data-
base of Pennsylvania local food sources
promoted to the general public. The
guide allows farms and other business-
es selling local foods to create a custom
entry listing all products available, hours
of operation and much more. You can
even include your logo and link to your
website (if applicable) with your listing.
Be sure to visit www.buylocalpa.org,
select your region, click on “Get in the
Guide,” and fill in all the needed infor-
mation about your farm or business.
New entries are being added daily,
so please check back often to find
sources of fresh, local foods as we
assemble our listings.
Also: stay tuned for major upgrades
to the site, scheduled to “go live” by the
end of May!
Clarion, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette,
Forest, Greene, Indiana, Jefferson,
Lawrence, Mercer, Somerset, Venango,
Warren, Washington and Westmoreland
! Statewide BFBL Coordination
* Chris Fullerton, PASA Consumer Outreach
chris@pasafarming.org or 412-246-0990
Buy Fresh Buy Local chapters in Pennsylvania
are coordinated by PASA, on behalf of our
national partner, FoodRoutes Network
(www.foodroutes.org). To explore your
region’s food system further, hear about
upcoming events and find more ways to
get involved, please visit our website —
www.buylocalpa.org — or contact one
of the folks listed above.
Our work is made possible in part by
funding from the Pennsylvania Department
of Agriculture and by contributions from
individuals and businesses throughout the
state.
Educational Outreach
Last year The Rodale Institute hosted a field
day on compost, cover crops and organic
orchard production. Stay tuned for PASA’s
2008 Farm-Based Education series beginning
in May.

Save these dates now!

A complete 2008 Educational Outreach
calendar will be mailed to all members
in May, when registration will also begin.

Farm-Based
Education Series Plans Underway
By Allison Shauger,
Educational Outreach Director
The Educational Outreach Depart-
ment is pleased to provide a series of
Farm-Based Education (FBE) events,
intensive learning programs and work-
shops that promote and demonstrate sus-
tainable farming methods as well as
technical instruction on many related
topics. Keep your eyes peeled for an Edu-
cational Outreach field day and program
calendar, which will be mailed in May.
Events will be posted online as they are
organized with the majority of the pro-
PASA’s annual Farm-Based Education events
are great ways to network and learn from
other farmers, researchers and experts.
gramming beginning in June and contin-
uing into the late Fall months.
This year, the Educational Outreach
Department has grant support from the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA
Region III) and Northeast Sustainable
Agriculture Research Education (NE
SARE) in three subject areas. In keeping
with the grants, the majority of program-
ming will reflect our focus on value-
added dairy, small ruminants, and
reduced risk/Integrated Pest Manage-
ment practices in greenhouses and hi-
tunnels. In addition to these topics, we
are planning several other educational
events on topics ranging from grass-based
cattle systems to on-farm composting to
alternative energy. Stay tuned for the
schedule of events and we hope to see you
out in the field this summer!
Teachers, keep in mind that PASA
offers Act 48 professional development
credit for qualified teachers. Act 48 forms
will be available on-site at each Educa-
tional Outreach event. !
! Wednesday, May 21
Mentors of Sustainability in Pennsylva-
nia Agriculture, a collaboration between
The Rodale Institute, the Pennsylvania
Department of Agriculture’s Risk Man-
agement team (PDA RMA), Pennsylvania
Women’s Agricultural Network (PA-
WAgN), the Southeastern Pennsylvania
Resource Conservation & Development
(SEPA RC&D) and PASA.
Join us for a tour of The Rodale Insti-
tute’s research facility. We’ll tour the
experimental farm and learn about the
latest research trials in organic crop pro-
duction. The keynote speaker will be
Ardath Rodale, Chairman of the Board
for The Rodale Institute. Cost (includes
lunch): $15. Registration at the PA WAgN
website: http://wagn.cas.psu.edu
! Thursday, May 29th
Energy Assessment and Biodiesel Pro-
duction at The Lands at Hillside Farms in
Shavertown, PA in Luzerne County.
Spend the day engaged in hands-on
biodiesel production using Piedmont
Biofuel’s mobile processing unit and
learn about farm energy audits and
ways to improve efficiency on your
farm. Cost (includes lunch): $15 PASA
members, $25 all others.

Editor’s Note: In the January/February 2008 edition (Passages 70), we regret an

error in the On-Farm Research Cover Crop article on pages 22 and 23.Table 2 in the
article was not included and the correct table caption and data is described below.
We apologize for any inconveniences.
Table 2. Corn grain yields following various 2006/07 cover crops
(grain corrected to 15.5 % moisture).

12

The Importance of Micronutrients in
Growing Great Tomatoes
Steve Bogash, Regional Horticulture
Educator, Penn State
One of the great misconceptions
among growers is in the understanding of
the importance of micronutrients in cre-
ating a great tomato harvest. While the
required amounts of these nutrients are
very low in comparison to the levels of
macronutrients, their importance is still
very high. Typically major nutrients or
macronutrients are expressed as a per-
centage of dry matter in plant tissue
while the much smaller micronutrient
levels are expressed as ppm (parts per mil-
lion). These smaller amounts lead many
to believe that they are less important.
However, plant health and fruit quality
suffers greatly when there are insufficient
amounts of these micronutrients as they
are important in cell division, develop-
ment of flavor compounds, cell wall for-
mation, fruit set and other plant
biochemical processes.
Major nutrients include Carbon (C),
Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Nitrogen
(N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K).
Of these, C, H, and O are classed as
of the season? Don’t forget micronutrients are
key in producing successful tomato yields.
structural elements, are extracted by
plants from the air and water and make
up 90–95% of plant tissue. N, P, and K
are commonly considered as the
macronutrients, make up much of the
remaining plant tissue and are the 3
numbers expressed as percentages on fer-
tilizer bags. Required in lesser amounts as
critical micronutrients by plants are Cal-
cium (Ca) and Magnesium (Mg) fol-
lowed by Sulfur (S), Boron (B), Chlorine
(Cl), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese
(Mn), Molybdenum (Mo), and Zinc
(Zn). Of great interest in our industry at
this time as well as receiving a lot of
research are the elements Silicon (Si),
Sodium (Na), Vanadium (V) and Nickel
(Ni). So far these last four elements are
not considered critical nutrients, but
research indicates that they may be bene-
ficial in the right circumstances.
We will consider the list of currently
considered “critical” micronutrients for
our region. Mo, Mn, and Cl have been
left out of this section as they are seldom
a problem. All of the tissue levels are
based on samples of whole leaves collect-
13
Can’t wait for that first, homegrown tomato
ed as “Most Recently Mature”. On a typ-
ical tomato plant, this is the fourth or
fifth whole leaf down from the growing
point. This leaf will be fully expanded
and no longer yellow in appearance.
Calcium (Ca): Calcium is critical in
cell wall formation. Plant Ca deficiencies
include Blossom End Rot (BER) along
with many variations of skin cracking.
Calcium deficiencies are typically part of
a series of problems including uneven
watering, low pH, moisture stresses, and
imbalances with the nutrients K, Mg and
N. Ca tomato tissue levels at fruiting
should be near 3%. Calcium Nitrate and
Calcium chelates are typically applied
through irrigation or foliarly to increase
available calcium. Irrigation must be
managed properly to solve Ca deficiency.
Magnesium (Mg): The comments for
Mg are very similar to Ca as these ele-
ments must be in balance with each
other. Like Ca, severe Mg deficiency can
cause BER. Mg tomato tissue levels at
fruiting should be near 0.9%. Field
observations indicate that a ratio of 3⁄ 4
parts Ca to 1 part Mg, assuming that
both are near the peak of sufficiency, pro-
duces excellent fruit with strong skins
and minimal cracking. Magnesium sul-
fate, Sul-Po-Mag and Magnesium Oxides
are common sources of additional Mg.
Sulfur (S): Sulfur is especially impor-
tant in the creation of the complex of
organic compounds that make up the
odor and flavor profiles of vegetable fruit.
Tissue sulfur levels at fruiting should be
between 0.8 and 1.2%. Potassium sulfate,
Sul-Po-Mag, Magnesium sulfate and
Ammonium sulfate are all common
sources of sulfur. Since these are common
materials used in blending fertilizers, S is
seldom a limiting nutrient.
Boron (B): Boron is extremely impor-
tant to growers in our region as this ele-
ment is often deficient in our soils. B
deficiency is often expressed as poor
development or death of the growing
point since it is very important in many
cellular division processes. Borax and Sol-
ubor are often applied foliarly at 1 ⁄ 2–1
pounds/acre annually. B tissue levels
should be between 50 and 75ppm. Bring-
continued page 15
Fundraising Update
Time to Make a Little Honey OUR SPECIAL GIFTS
Louise Schorn Smith, Fundraising Committee Co-Chair
For a fifth year in a row, PASA is pleased
When spring arrives and I’m back in my garden again, I always feel a
to offer special gifts to Annual Fund
degree of wonder when I see honeybees busy at work, doing their critical contributors. This year we bring you
job of pollinating not only my small garden, but also the many farms and small batch handmade honey and
orchards in my area. The busy bees remind me of our PASA membership, beeswax products from PASA member
which works as a cohesive group to provide healthy food for all people farms. Those who contribute $100 and
while respecting the natural environment. more will receive an assortment of
This year the PASA Board of Directors proudly unveils our 2008 Annu- gifts from the busi-
al Fund meter — an old-fashioned coiled straw beehive, or “skep.” Our nesses featured
goal is to “collect enough honey” to fill our hive with $230,000 for our below.

In Search of
Annual Fund by conducting a variety of fundraising activities throughout
the year in various PASA regions.
Sustainable Livestock
This revenue provides a firm foundation for the operation of PASA’s
education and advocacy programs, which are increasingly vital to sustain-
Systems in Rural Guyana
able agriculture in our state. We have already “filled the first cells” of our
hive with some donor gifts and the proceeds from the Benefit Auction at ! Grandpa Dan’s Apiary — Dan's
the conference. beeswax is harvested from his Lebanon
In the next month we are launching our spring appeal. This important County hives to create his beautiful mold-
campaign is an opportunity for everyone to add their bit of honey to the ed and hand dipped taper candles. PASA
hive early in the year. Let’s all work together “as busy as bees” to assure the is pleased to offer Dan’s natural candles in
sustainability of PASA. our gift collections this year. We are offer-
ing both the molded beehive skep candle
(pictured above) and a handsome set of
tapers.

! Lost Hollow Honey — The wonderful

- $230,000 — Our Goal Clover Honey in our 2008 collection is
$225,000-
- from hives in central Pennsylvania, and
-
- has a floral flavor that varies with the sea-
-
200,000- sonal flowering species within the spring-
-
- time foraging range of the bees. The
- unstrained Raw Honey we’re offering
-
175,000- contains all the original nutrients, includ-
-
- ing pollen, propolis and yes, some bee
-
- parts, as extracted from the comb. Truly
150,000-
- healthful!
-
-
- ! Sue’s Salves — Sue Morris understands
125,000-
- the healing power of plants and the ben-
-
- efits of using natural ingredients, and
-
100,000- believes that with nature, powerful heal-
- ing is possible. Sue uses naturally
-
- obtained beeswax in the two products
-
75,000- offered in our PASA gift collections. You’ll
-
- $60,036 (March 26) be sure to enjoy the lip balm and salve
-
- being offered.
50,000-
-
-
- For full information on the Annual Fund
-
25,000- campaign and the 2008 gift premiums,
-
- call Lauren Smith at PASA headquarters or
-
- visit us online.
0-
PASA recognizes our country’s bee popula-
tions have been placed in peril with Colony
Collapse Disorder. We applaud farmers and
beekeepers dedicated to providing healthy
and sustainable environments in which
bees can thrive. In service to the member-
ship, we will continue to deliver news and
research regarding this issue.

14
Growing Tomatoes
continued from page 13
ing B tissue levels to 75 ppm can increase
fruit quality by reducing cracking and
uneven ripening.
Copper (Cu): Although copper defi-
ciency is seldom seen in the field, obser-
vations indicate that keeping Cu levels
near 20 ppm will enhance plant growth
and aid in the plant’s ability to resist dis-
eases. Most copper bactericides/fungi-
cides supply sufficient amounts of Cu
when used in rotation as part of an over-
all disease management program.
Iron (Fe): Iron is very important in the
plant’s ability to utilize N and S. Many
plant biochemical processes require small
amounts of Fe. Recommended tissue lev-
els are 100–300 ppm. Iron deficient
plants have interveinal chlorosis and yel-
lowing of younger leaves. High pH soils
or irrigation water can cause Fe deficien-
cy. Iron chelate and Ferrous sulfate are
good sources of additional Fe. Tomatoes
benefit greatly from the management of
irrigation water to a pH of 6.2–6.5. This
increases Fe and K
availability.
Zinc (Zn): Zn
deficiency can
appear as poor
growth and/or poor
fruit set and often
appear very similar
to Fe deficiency.
The only way to
identify this prob-
lem is by tissue test-
ing. Zn levels
should be between
20 and 50 ppm.
Zinc chelates, sul-
fate and oxides are
common sources of additional Zn. on keeping the plants fruiting. If you
The best method to avoid micronutri- need information on collecting proper
ent deficiencies as well as produce the plant tissue for analysis, please contact
largest crop with the greatest packout is the author.
to regularly soil and tissue test plants at Editor’s Note: This article was reprinted
critical points. Always test a tomato field with permission from Steve Bogash, Region-
prior to planting and apply nutrients as al Horticulture Educator, Penn State Coop-
recommended. Then submit plant tissue erative Extension in Chambersburg, PA
for analysis at first blossom, 6–8 mm (Franklin Co.) and the March 2008 edi-
green fruit, first fruit color (pink) and tion of the Penn State Vegetable & Small
again at first harvest if you are planning Fruit Gazette. !

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT

15
Membership Update
Member Support is Essential
By Michele Gauger,
Membership Director
Recently many of PASA’s membership
regions have hosted gatherings prior to
the onslaught of spring and all the activi-
ty the new season brings. Some of these
meetings are noted on page 8 of this
newsletter and have included potluck
meals, planning for regional events in the
coming months, presentations by local
farmers and sharing information collect-
ed at the recent PASA conference.
As PASA continues to grow we will
continue to rely on communications
from members in all of our regions,
including our important non-Pennsylva-
nia members all across the country, to let
us know how we are doing as an organi-
zation. Your voices are important to us
and we encourage each of you to actively
participate in your regional advisory
groups and gatherings. For those of you
who may not have a regional group estab-
lished — now may be the time to do it —
and I would be glad to help.
Regional networking events provide
great feedback to PASA on potential field
day topics and sites our members would
like to see, important events going on in
your area, issues that are important in
particular regions — and most impor-
tantly a chance for fellow PASA members
and friends to come together to network
with each other.
Page 9 of this newsletter highlights
our current Regional Contacts and also
email addresses for our Yahoo-sponsored
Regional Email Discussion Groups.
Other Notes
Don’t Forget to Renew — if you have
not done so already, PASA’s annual mem-
bership renewal campaign is winding
down, if you still need to renew your
membership, you can do so on our web-
site www.pasafarming.org and click “Join
PASA” or call PASA headquarters at 814-
349-9856 x5.
Spring Has Sprung — PASA is receiv-
ing invitations from various organiza-
tions across the state to participate in
Earth Day events, market openings and
more. PASA staff is not able to attend all
of these events — and we may rely on
regional volunteers for help. If there is an
event or market in your area where you
would like to distribute materials about
PASA, call PASA headquarters at 814-
349-9856 x5 or email michele@pasa-
farming.org. We would be glad to send
materials and display items for you to
represent PASA at your local level.
Membership Growth — At the
time of printing, PASA currently has
4,701 members across the country. Stay
tuned for our upcoming series of Educa-
tional Outreach events to be announced
in May, so you can take advantage of
reduced fees for current members.
Tell A Friend — If you have a friend or
colleague you would like to introduce to
PASA, let us know. Current members are
our best ambassadors for the organiza-
tion. If you would like membership
forms or newsletters to distribute or
PASA to mail something to a new con-
tact, give us a call at 814-349-9856 x5 or
email michele@pasafarming.org.
Enhanced Web Site Presence — Stay
tuned to www.pasafarming.org in the
coming months as we are set to begin
work on a website overhaul, to be
unveiled this fall. We plan to incorporate
more user-friendly features for our mem-
bers including more discussion group
areas, readily accessible classified and job
listings, timely news and action alerts,
easy registration and membership func-
tions, photos, educational materials and
much more! If members have suggestions
for the web site, contact michele@pasa-
farming.org or 814-349-9856 x5.

PASA Staff and Board would like to welcome our newest Lifetime Members and Business Members as of March 10.

LIFETIME MEMBERS BUSINESS MEMBERS

Jean & Lee Bentz Bioniche Juniata College The Smart Work Co.
Gettysburg, PA Animal Health USA Inc. Huntingdon, PA Spring Mills, PA
Anne & Tim Bock Bogart, GA Lake Erie Creamery Spiedie Bistro Inc.
Kutztown, PA Chesapeake Gardens Inc. Cleveland, OH Phoenixville, PA
Glen Burnie, MD Lower Eastern Shore
William B. Heffner III Stonyfield Farm Yogurt
The Food Trust Sustainable Organic Network Londonderry, NH
Lawrence von Barann
Philadelphia, PA (LESSON)
Steelton, PA
Quantico, MD Stoudts
Kate Hunter Grace Growers, Adamstown, PA
Grace Tabernacle Church Organic Farming Research
Tom Abell Foundation
Pottstown, PA Under the Oak Café
Allentown, PA Santa Cruz, CA Philadelphia, PA
GroExx of Filtrexx
Jo-Ping Lee PA Department of University of New Hampshire
International LLC
Steven Gaskey Conservation and Natural Organic Dairy Research Farm
Grafton, OH Resources (DCNR)
Amber, PA Durham, NH
GSR Calcium Harrisburg, PA
Suella Pipal Ridgeway, IA West Penn Power
Pittsburgh, PA Penn’s Corner Farm Alliance
Shelocta, PA Sustainable Energy Fund
Historic Lewes
Susan & Don Sauter Farmers Market Radnor Middle School Energy Institute Penn State
Bruceton Mills, WV Lewes, DE Wayne, PA University Park, PA
Louise Schorn Smith Hobby Farms Magazine Seven Springs Farm VeggieGardeningTips.com
Exton, PA Irvine, CA Check, VA Harrisburg, PA

16
Editor’s Corner
The Grapevine
by Michele Gauger
Educational Outreach
Season Coming
Stay tuned to this newsletter and the
PASA website, www.pasafarming.org for the
latest details regarding PASA’s upcoming
Educational Outreach events during the sum-
mer and fall of 2008. Educational Outreach
Director, Allison Shauger is working on the
details to bring quality programs to our
membership and friends. A complete calen-
dar and registration information will be
mailed to all members in May.
Dairy Basics for the
Small-Scale Processor
Penn State and the PA Department of
Agriculture have teamed up to offer four
workshops regarding dairy processing on
April 21 & 23, at the Mifflin County Extension
Office, 152 East Market St, Lewistown PA, and
May 1 & 2 at the Lancaster County Extension
Office, 1383 Arcadia Road — Room 140, Lan-
caster PA 17601.
These workshops will provide information
to farmstead and small-scale dairy producers
and processors to help them to improve the
safety and quality of their products.
The courses offered on Wednesday, April
23 and Thursday, May 1 will be targeted to
those farmstead and small-scale processors
of pasteurized products, while another work-
shop on Monday, April 21 and Friday, May 2
will target those interested in raw milk and
raw milk aged cheese. Each day’s workshop
will run from 8:30am to 5:00pm.
For a complete brochure visit this link via
the Penn State Food Science Department:
www.foodscience.psu.edu/Outreach/Dairy-
Basics2008.pdf
Or for more information contact:
shortcourse@psu.edu or 877-778-2937
Closing the Food Gap
This new title by food activist and journal-
ist, Mark Winne poses questions too often
overlooked in our current conversations
around food: What about those people who
are not financially able to make conscien-
tious choices about where and how to get
food? And in a time of rising rates of both dia-
betes and obesity, what can we do to make
healthier foods available for everyone?
Closing the Food Gap: Resetting the Table
in the Land of Plenty, by Mark Winne. ISBN:
978-080704730-9.
If You Eat —
This Book Is For You
Essential Eating: The Digestible Diet, written
by PASA member Janie Quinn, who is the
founder of Essential Eating, as well as a real
food educator and organic chef, includes deli-
cious recipes.
Finally, a solution to save yourself from the
onslaught of fake processed foods that are pre-
venting you from losing weight and restoring
your health. The Essential Eating dieting
concept is simply to eat real foods that digest easily and allow your body to alleviate indi-
gestion and lose excess weight. Sound simple? It is. You’ll want to eat this way forever.
Start saving yourself today with delicious food for weight loss and restored health.
Eat to lose weight — now that is unique. You are worth it. Available everywhere books
are sold and online at www.essentialeating.com or Amazon.com.
Annual Polyface Farm Field Day Set Devon will be the centerpiece of the
Acres USA will once again sponsor a field new operation. As he puts it, "We see the
day at Joel Salatin’s Polyface Farm in Swoope, Red Devon as an answer to the long-standing
VA on Saturday, July 12. For information visit grass fed production problem of not having
www.acresusa.com or call 1-800-355-5313. animals that are genetically predisposed
Discounted registration fees before June 1. to maximize their potential on a diet of
100% grass."
Kim Miller New Head of As Executive Secretary of NADA, Miller
Devon Association sees himself in a position to help resolve the
Kim Miller, former PASA board president, primary challenge facing the organization:
Pennsylvania organic farmer and national finding and creating enough Devon to meet
leader in sustainable agriculture, has been the exploding demand.
named the new Executive Secretary of the
North American Devon Association (NADA). Clean Energy Grant Program
Miller, who been raising grass fed beef Get the latest clean energy farm news by vis-
and pastured poultry since 1993, takes over iting www.farmenergy.org. The Rural Energy
as the day-to-day head of the largest Devon for America Program (REAP) directly helps
organization in America. Miller joins a leader- farmers and rural businesses develop farm-
ship team headed by veteran cattleman and based clean energy opportunities.
genetics expert Gearld Fry. Fry is the presi-
dent of the Association and will focus on PASA Receives SARE
strategic planning and breed standards. Partnership Grant
In his "other life", Miller has been involved PASA and Penn State University were
in building and property development, but recently awarded a Northeast Sustainable
always with an eye toward conserving land Agriculture Research and Education (SARE)
resources and with a careful selection of re- grant to consider “Use of alternative row cov-
useable construction materials. ers and pollinators to manage insect pests
Recently Miller, and his wife Dianne, pur- and improve cucurbit production and prof-
chased a larger farm with an eye toward itability.” Three PASA member farms, Beech
expanding their cow-calf herd. There he Grove Farm in Trout Run PA, Tewksbury Grace
plans to continue the sustainable agriculture Farm in Muncy PA and White Frost Farm in
techniques he has not only practiced for Washingtonville PA will be participating in
almost 20 years but aggressively preached on-farm research trials as part of this
through PASA. research.
17
Classified Ads
Employment
VEGETABLE FARMER & ENVIRONMENTAL EDU-
CATOR POSITION — available at Olney Friends
School, a small, co-educational boarding school for
grades 9 -12, located in Barnesville, OH, in the beau-
tiful Appalachian foothills of southeastern Ohio.
The vegetable farmer will grow fresh produce for
the school’s kitchen, assist in managing livestock,
teach gardening classes, oversee interns and stu-
dent employees & participating in the life of a resi-
dential Quaker community. Contact Richard
Sidwell, Head of School, 740-425-3655, ext 201,
rich@olneyfriends.org.
OPPORTUNITIES — employment available at
Pennsylvania Certified Organic, Spring Mills, PA.
Pennsylvania Certified Organic announces the fol-
lowing employment opportunities: Organic Certifi-
cation Specialist, Assistant Certification Director,
Organic Inspector / Inspection Coordinator and
Organic Inspector. All positions include benefits
and are based in our Spring Mills (Centre County),
PA, office. Please see the PCO website, www.paor-
ganic.org, for the positions’ Job Descriptions. For
more information Contact Beckie Lease at 814-422-
0251 or pco@paorganic.org.
WANTED — FT farm help, on our pastured, natural-
ly grown Beef, Dairy, Poultry,Pork,Goat, sheep,
and chemical free produce operation in Hamburg,
Pa. Visit www.mbfarviewfarm.com and contact
Mary, 610-562-4912
INTERNS NEEDED — Cromwell Valley CSA near
Baltimore, MD, is seeking 3 interns for 2008. Offer-
ing a $500/month stipend plus free shared housing
and utilities. Produce grown on the farm is available
at no cost. Hands-on learning, some lecture, and
field trips included. Experience helpful but not
required. For job description and application con-
tact www.cvcsa.org.
ASSISTANT FARMER POSITION — Cromwell
Valley CSA near Baltimore, MD. The CSA is seeking
one assistant farmer for 2008. The term will begin
upon applicant’s arrival and continue till December
31, 2008. The assistant farmer position includes the
opportunity for permanent year-round employ-
ment. Shared housing and a salary are provided,
and produce grown on the farm is available at no
cost to the assistant farmer. The amount of the
monthly salary will depend on experience. If inter-
ested in this position, please e-mail
cvfarmer@bcpl.net or call (410) 825-2854 and leave
your contact information.
HEAD FARMERS — Red Hill Farm, located in Aston
PA right outside of Philadelphia, is seeking 2 full
time head farmers for THIS GROWING SEASON. Red
Hill is a CSA farm owned by the Sisters of Saint Fran-
cis of Philadelphia growing for 120 members. Red
Hill is looking for 2 dedicated, hardworking individ-
uals with 2 years or more of organic farming expe-
rience. For more info please contact Amy or Chris at
610-558-6799 or ajohnson@osfphila.org and visit
our website www.redhillfarm.org.
ADVERTISEMENT
18
BIODYNAMIC FARM INTERNSHIP — located in
southeast PA, Kimberton CSA is 200 households
provided by ten acres of vegetables, berries, herbs,
flowers, chickens, and bees. We make most of the
Biodynamic preparations in collaboration with
other BD-Farmers of the region. We accept interns
each season for 8 months (April-November), how-
ever we can also accommodate summer intern-
ships (June-August). Good housing and stipends
are offered in exchange for your work. Most learn-
ing is by doing! Call or email Birgit & Erik Landowne
for more details, 610-933-8339,
kimbertonCSA@hotmail.com, www.KimbertonC-
SA.org.
FIELD ASSITANT — The Red Wiggler Community
Farm in Clarksburg, MD is seeking a field assistant
for the 2008 CSA season. Red Wiggler is a non-prof-
it that employs adults with developmental disabili-
ties in the growing and selling of vegetables to an
80 member CSA in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Under the direct supervision of the Field Manager,
the field assistant works to meet the need of the
Red Wiggler CSA and the farm sales program. Expo-
sure to planting, seeding, harvesting, cultivating,
soil fertility, and working with a variety of people.
Starting pay: $9—$11/hour, commensurate upon
experience; Max. 40 Hours/Week; Tuesday through
Saturday 20 Weeks, Mid-April to Mid-September
(start and end dates flexible). Please examine our
website for more information: www.redwiggler.org.
If you are interested in the position please email
adrienne@redwiggler.org.
Classified Ads
OPERATIONS ASSISTANT — Lancaster Farm Fresh
Cooperative is hiring a full-time permanent Opera-
tions Assistant to work closely with the wholesale
and CSA managers. The Operations Assistant com-
municates with farmers, customers, CSA members
and Cooperative employees, assisting in all aspects
of business operations. The position begins in late
March and is located in Quarryville, PA. Interested
individuals should contact Lancaster Farm Fresh via
email at admin@lancasterfarmfresh.com.
APPRENTICESHIP — at Wolf Pine Farm, a 200+
member CSA in Southern Maine is accepting appli-
cations for a full season position.The farm is MOFGA
certified organic and is on 50 acres, with 25 wooded
and 25 open, which includes about 6 acres of diverse
vegetables. The farm employs 2 apprentices from
April through the end of October and provides
housing in a beautiful, new, off the grid-cabin, as well
as a $800 month stipend, a sparkling river to swim in
and all the veggies you can eat. Check out the farm
website www.wolfpinefarm.com. Send a cover letter
& resume to Laura Neale, CSA Manager, at
laura@wolfpinefarm.com.
ASSISTANT VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR — Work
with students and adults with developmental dis-
abilities on a farm. $9–11/hour; Max. 40 hours/week;
Tues–Sat, Mid-May—Mid-Sept (dates flexible) Please
send resume and short cover letter to: Red Wiggler
P.O. Box 968 Clarksburg, MD 20871 or email
Beth@redwiggler.org. Visit www.redwiggler.org for
more information on our farm.
ASSISTANT FARM MANAGER — on organic pro-
duce farm in eastern NY. April – Nov, 50 hrs./wk,
$8.50/hr., workman’s comp., farm produce, farm
house apt. included. Duties include: harvest, pack &
record keeping, tractor cultivation, general farm
work. Rquires at least 2 seasons farm work including
tractor experience, organized, good communication
skills. Spanish helpful. CRAFT farmer training pro-
gram available. Contact Willy Denner, Little Seed
Gardens, Lseed2002@yahoo.com, 518-392-0063.
WANTED — Interns/Ag students to design, develop,
and implement a sustainable agriculture enterprise.
I’ll provide land, equipment, and even lodging on an
80 acre non-active farm in Potter County, Pennsylva-
nia. You provide ideas, vision, and hard work. We’ll
share the successes and failures. Ideal opportunity
for recent graduates seeking to apply their educa-
tion while still acquiring the experience and
resources necessary before starting their own agri-
cultural operation. Willing to partner with educa-
tional or other non-profit entities. Email me for
additional information at mark.chambers@adel-
phia.com.
INTERNS — Rainbeau Ridge, located 1 hour north of
New York City, has two internship openings for the
2008 season. The two positions will incorporate
responsibilities in the areas of livestock, cheesemak-
ing, market gardening and ag education for chil-
dren. Specific job descriptions will be crafted to
match candidates depending upon skills, back-
ground and interests.This is a unique opportunity to
be part of a dynamic, growing, non-traditional farm
business. We value excellence, have high standards
and appreciate individuals who can work in a fluid
environment. Visit www.rainbeauridge.com.
CONSERVATION SPECIALIST — The Delaware
Highlands Conservancy is currently looking for a
full-time, entry-level Land Conservation Specialist to
work with property owners to conserve land in Sul-
livan and Delaware Counties, New York. Responsibil-
ities include management of all aspects of
conservation easement and agricultural easement
projects from initial meeting with landowner
through negotiation, closing, and ongoing monitor-
ing. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the
environment, college degree in environmental stud-
ies, land use planning or related field, computer pro-
ficiency including experience with ESRI ArcGIS,
excellent interpersonal and communication skills,
and strong orientation for detail. Previous experi-
ence with a land trust a plus. Travel throughout the
region is required. For more information, please call
570-226-3164 or email info@delawarehighlands.org.
OPPORTUNITY SOUGHT — Couple with two-year-
old daughter seeking experience in sustainable agri-
culture. Currently in Philadelphia area but willing to
relocate (housing needed). We are interested in all
aspects of sustainable agriculture, integrated sys-
tems that include animals and produce, composting,
cover cropping, agroforestry, alternative energy and
permaculture. Our hope is to be equipped for even-
tual service in a developing nation, most likely
Africa. Husband is a graduate of Slippery Rock’s MS3
and Masters in Education programs. All suggestions
welcome, please contact sfbst1@yahoo.com.
INTERNSHIP — at the Pfeiffer Center in Chestnut
Ridge, New York is a full time program that combines
academic work with hands on experience in the
Center gardens and apiary. Interns will broaden and
deepen their understanding of organic sustainable
agriculture and the Biodynamic approach. Positions
generally last a year and start in the early spring.
There are 4 weeks of vacation in December and early
January. For information contact info@pfeiffer-
center.org or 845-352-5020 x20.
VEGETABLE FARMER & ENVIRONMENTAL EDU-
CATOR POSITION — available at Olney Friends
School, a small, co-educational boarding school for
grades 9 –12, located in Barnesville, OH, in the beau-
tiful Appalachian foothills of southeastern Ohio.
The vegetable farmer will grow fresh produce for
the school's kitchen, assist in managing livestock,
teach gardening classes, oversee interns and stu-
dent employees & participating in the life of a resi-
dential Quaker community. Contact Richard Sidwell,
Head of School, 740-425-3655, ext 201,
rich@olneyfriends.org.
LEAD FARMER — Cromwell Valley CSA is located in
the beautiful 350-acre Cromwell Valley Park within
ten minutes of the cultural and educational oppor-
tunities of Towson & Baltimore, MD. In addition to
the CSA the park is home to a children’s garden, edu-
cational programs, and a summer camp. The CSA is
seeking one lead farmer for 2008. The term will
begin upon applicant’s arrival and continue through
December 31, 2008. The position includes the
opportunity for permanent year-round employ-
ment. Compensation includes a $1500/month
stipend plus shared housing & utilities. Produce
grown on the farm is available at no cost to the
farmer. If you are interested in this position, please e-
mail cvfarmer@bcpl.net or call 410-825-2854.
19
OPPORTUNITIES – employment available at Penn-
sylvania Certified Organic, Spring Mills, PA. Pennsyl-
vania Certified Organic announces the following
employment opportunities: Organic Certification
Specialist, Assistant Certification Director, Organic
Inspector / Inspection Coordinator and Organic
Inspector. All positions include benefits and are
based in our Spring Mills (Centre County), PA, office.
Please see the PCO website, www.paorganic.org, for
the positions’ Job Descriptions. For more informa-
tion Contact Beckie Lease at 814-422-0251 or
pco@paorganic.org.
ASSISTANT FARMER POSITION — Cromwell Valley
CSA near Baltimore, MD. The CSA is seeking one
assistant farmer for 2008. The term will begin upon
applicant’s arrival and continue till December 31,
2008. The assistant farmer position includes the
opportunity for permanent year-round employ-
ment. Shared housing and a salary are provided, and
produce grown on the farm is available at no cost to
the assistant farmer. The amount of the monthly
salary will depend on experience. If interested in this
position, please e-mail cvfarmer@bcpl.net or call
(410) 825-2854 and leave your contact information.
INTERNS NEEDED — Cromwell Valley CSA near Bal-
timore, MD, is seeking 3 interns for 2008. Offering a
$500/month stipend plus free shared housing and
utilities. Produce grown on the farm is available at no
cost. Hands-on learning, some lecture, and field trips
included. Experience helpful but not required. For
job description/application contact www.cvcsa.org.
For Sale
FOR SALE — Hydroponic and Greenhouse Equip-
ment and Supplies for Sale. 1999 International
4700/DT466 Low Pro truck with 18' insulated/refrig-
erated box equipped with air ride, dock height
w/step bumper(188,000 mi.), 30,000 sq. ft. gutter
connect Westbrook Greenhouse (14' to gutter), 4
Priva Maximizers w/computer, 2 Boilersmith Boilers,
Heat rails, Pacific Ozone Generator, ESS Sprayer,
H.E.Anderson Injector feeder and portable injector,
1.5 hp pumps, 400w P.L. Lights HPS grow lights, 150
gal. Rubbermaid Stock Tank, 3 Priva CO2 burners, 3
walk in coolers, Sensophone, 6 bays of galvanized
benching, 500 – 6’ hydroponic channels, 4 rolling
pruning/harvest carts, micro elements, PH & EC
meters, O2 test kit. 10# Genovese Basil, 2.5# Aroma 2
Basil, 5# Santo Cilantro and 10# Astro Arugula seed.
T84 plug trays, 1 barrel 35% peroxide, refrigerated
30’ trailers (1 with standby), scales & more. Call for
complete list of equipment & e-mail pictures. Mike @
814-432-5281 x-27 or Cindy 814-673-0221.
FOR SALE — We are a MIG seasonal dairy and have
4 NOFA certified heifers born outside our calving
window. Crossbred with jersey and lineback 10
months old. Also, Four 12 month old crossbred bulls;
normande, lineback, jersey, and friesian. Contact Jim
Phillips 607-591-0562 Cortland,NY.
FOR SALE — Protect your livestock with Anatolian
Shepherd Livestock Guard Dogs. Farm raised, regis-
tered, vaccinated, with dewclaws removed. Puppies
available. Sire and dam on site. Call 570-769-7344 or
visit Pairodox Farm at www.pairodoxfarm.com. Seri-
ous inquiries only.
continued page 20
Classified Ads
For Sale
continued from page 19
FOR SALE — Organic Beekeeping Classes - Bee-
keeping classes in State College. Classes will cover
organic and sustainable beekeeping practices for
beginners as well advanced methods of beekeep-
ing utilizing organic pest controls. For more infor-
mation, contact Liam at 814-574-2273, e-mail
half-acrefarm@hotmail.com, or www.half-acre-
farm.com.
.LOOKING FOR A FAMILY COW? Please consider
rescuing a Holstein heifer who was born blind. She
is otherwise healthy, friendly, 7 months old, A.I.
sired, from a good, clean commercial dairy farm.
She is available for slaughter price, approximately
$300. For more information, please call Judy at 412-
638-0594 or email wayward_holstein@yahoo.com.
AVAILABLE — Organic Beekeeping Classes - Bee-
keeping classes in State College. Classes will cover
organic and sustainable beekeeping practices for
beginners as well advanced methods of beekeep-
ing utilizing organic pest controls. For more infor-
mation, contact Liam at 814-574-2273, e-mail
half-acrefarm@hotmail.com, or www.half-acre-
farm.com
ADVERTISEMENT
Wanted
WANTED — Bees for beginners. Email Livin-
DreamsFarm@gmail.com.
PRODUCERS WANTED: Farmers to participate in
the 2nd season of the Boyertown Farmers Market,
located in Berks County. The season will run from
June till November and all farmers must be the
original grower or creator of the product they are
selling. We are looking for a diverse and balanced
mix of farmers for the 2008 season with represen-
tation from each of the following categories:
Fruit/Vegetables, Poultry/Fish, Beef or other Red
Meat, Dairy/Cheese and Baked Goods.The market is
overseen by a sub-committee of the Boyertown’s
Main Street Program (Building a Better Boyertown),
with a dedicated Farmers Market Manager and
funding in the amount of $15,000 for infrastructure
and marketing. There is also a fully operational
website, with over 11,000 “hits” a month, highlight-
ing the market, vendors and entertainment. There
will be no space rental fees for the 2008 season;
however, we do require a firm commitment from
vendors for the season. All interested parties can
contact the Market Manager, Bryan McDonald at
610-369-3054 or by email at farmmanager@boyer-
townpa.org.
20
WANTED — Organic produce to feed 24 families
grown within 100 miles of us and delivered weekly
(on Wednesdays) to Mountain Lakes, NJ. We are at
the intersection of Route 80 and 287. Please phone
973-335-4469 or email FruitLady@MountainLake-
sOrganic.com.
WANTED — Looking for frizzle or cochin chicks,
preferably females if possible. For a small hobby
farm, only want four of each. Need to be within two
hours of State College, will pick up. Contact Katie,
814-360-5458 or kak280@hotmail.com.
LAND WANTED — Family in search of 5 to 20 acres
of farmland or small farm with a fixer-upper. Rea-
sonably priced. Within two hours from Pittsburgh.
Please contact Cindy Totino @412-882-2799 or
cindytotino@yahoo.com.
VENDORS WANTED — New Garden Growers Mar-
ket near Avondale, PA. Seeking growers and food
producers of all kinds. Saturday market 9-1. Call
610-268-2150 or email: summersun33@juno.com.
WANTED — Need Equipment for Farm Market, Bas-
kets, Tables, Display racks, Deli cases, Coolers, Fresh
Flower equipment. Produce equipment anything to
start a new farm market. Contact Jen Batchelder,
610-721-3297 or Hillsidefarm13@aol.com.
ADVERTISEMENT
Classified Ads
WANTED — Horseradish growers, contact Kelchn-
er’s Horseradish Products, Dave Daltry, Manager,
ddaltry@kelchnershorseradish.com, 800-424-1952,
www.kelchnershorseradish.com.
VENDORS — for Mt. Lebanon Farmers’ Market in
Allegheny Co. PA. Contact Carrie Hahn, market coor-
dinator, 412-531-4485 or bchahn@verizon.net
PRODUCERS WANTED: Farmers to participate in
the 2nd season of the Boyertown Farmers Market,
located in Berks County. The season will run from
June till November and all farmers must be the
original grower or creator of the product they are
selling. We are for representation from each of the
following categories: Fruit/Vegetables, Poultry/Fish,
Beef or other Red Meat, Dairy/Cheese and Baked
Goods. There will be no space rental fees for the
2008 season; however, we do require a firm com-
mitment from vendors for the season. All interested
parties can contact the Market Manager, Bryan
McDonald at 610-369-3054 or by email at farm-
manager@boyertownpa.org.
WANTED — I am looking for Red Bourbon hens
and a Black Spanish Tom. I also have "Protector"
geese to sell for your pastured poultry operation
$50.00/pair or $65.00/trio. Call Mark at 570-854-
4621 (Snyder Co. PA)
WANTED — Central PA farm: Farm family seeks 80-
100 acre farm with pond in central PA to relocate
our diversified, grass-based livestock operation. We
are qualified buyers, having already sold our NH
farm. Our timing is flexible, since we are currently
renting. David/Caroline Owens 603-556-0936, 603-
275-1511, info@owensfarm.com, website
www.owensfarm.com.
WANTED — small farm (vegetable/garden farm) to
lease in Lehigh Valley area. Contact Simon Wu, 847-
809-5481.
WANTED — Land Wanted To Buy…10+ acres, vicin-
ity of Centre County, year-round/natural/accessible
water source(s) a must, privacy, southern exposure,
with or without structures, for organic, sustainable,
natural method small-scale farming and home-
steading. Tillable soils for small-scale grain opera-
tion. Fallow ground or previous organic methods
preferred. Contact David at 814-349-5620 or email
davester78@yahoo.com.
WANTED — Organic Produce to feed 24 families
grown within 100 miles of us and delivered weekly
(on Wednesdays) to Mountain Lakes, NJ. We are at
the intersection of Route 80 and 287. Please
phone 973-335-4469 or email FruitLady@Moun-
tainLakesOrganic.com
WANTED — Looking for frizzle or cochin chicks,
preferably females if possible. For a small hobby
farm, only want four of each. Need to be within two
hours of State College, will pick up. Contact Katie,
814-360-5458 or kak280@hotmail.com.
WANTED — Bees for beginners. Email Livin-
DreamsFarm@gmail.com.
NOTE TO OUR READERS
Due to print space constraints, full listings
of classified and employment ads are avail-
able online at www.pasafarming.org. In
addition to those listings, there is also
complete information on:
• PASA’s Intern Board announcements
• Complete calendar details
• Up to date event registration details
Classified ad listings in the newsletter are a
free service to PASA members. For details
or to submit an ad, contact Michele
Gauger at PASA headquarters, 814-349-
9856 or michele@pasafarming.org

ADVERTISEMENT

VOLUNTEERS
PASA Staff and Board would like
to thank our most recent volunteers:
Eileen Clark
Brigid Ferkett
Janet Grecsek
Carrie Hahn
Maggie Henry
Diane & Bill Schoentag
Beth Marshall
Ginger Marshall
Zinat Naderi

ADVERTISEMENT

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Corn Borer, Mexican Bean Beetle, Manure Flies
Use Biocontrol in the Greenhouse to Control:
Aphids, Whiteflies, Spider Mites, Thrips, Fungus Gnats

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www.ipmlabs.com • ipmlabs@baldcom.net
Phone: (315) 497-2063
Healthy Beneficials Guaranteed

21
Calendar
Availability of Common Vegetables & Fruits
Calendar Beans – Lima July to October
This calendar features many events some of Beans – Snap July to October
PASA's sister organizations are sponsoring Beets July to Dec
that we felt many of our members would be
interested in learning more about. Stay tuned Blueberries July and August
for additional PASA events to be announced in Broccoli July to Oct.
the coming months — including the Farm-
Based Education schedule. Cabbage – green July to Oct.
Cabbage – red July to Oct.
May Cabbage – chineses June to Oct.
May 20–21 | 8th Annual PA Nutrition Educa-
tion Network Conference: Strengthening the Cantaloupe/Musk Melon July to Sept.
Food Resource Safety Net, Sheraton Harris- Carrots July to Dec.
burg-Hershey Hotel. Visit www.pahunger.org,
http://panen.psu.edu Cauliflower June to July/Sept to Nov.
Corn – sweet July to Oct.
June Cucumbers July to Sept.
Jun 5–8 | National Barn Alliance Annual Eggplant July to Oct.
Conference in partnership with the PA His-
Lettuce May to Oct.
toric Barn & Farmstead Foundation. Contact
Rod Scott, 641-648-4570, visit www.pahis- Peppers – sweet July to Dec.
toricbarns.org. Peppers – hot July to Oct.
June 5–7 | 18th Annual Native Plants in the Raspberries June to July
Landscape Conference. Held at: Millersville
University, Lancaster Co., PA. For information Spinach May and June, Aug. to Nov.
visit www.millersvillenativeplants.org or call: Strawberries June
717-872-3030
Squash – summer June to October

July
Jul 1 | Polyface Farm Field Day at Joel
Salatin’s Farm, Swoope VA, sponsored by
Acres USA. Visit www.acresusa.com or call
1-800-355-5313 for more information.
Jul 7–11 | Sustainable Health & the Class-
room Workshop, 9am–4pm, Quiet Creek Herb
Farm & School of Country Living in Brookville,
Pennsylvania, Jefferson County. Sponsored by
Clarion University. Create a vision for sustain-
able health in your home and classroom by
reducing stress through yoga, preparing/eat-
ing nutritionally-dense whole foods, strolling
in the woods wild crafting plants, and grow-
ing herbs, vegetables, flowers, and fruits.
Interested K–12 Teachers (public, private or
home school educators). Act 48 Credits avail-
able. Cost is $200 (includes all materials and
luncheons). Call Claire and Rusty Orner at
814-849-9662 or e-mail us at
quietcreek@windstream.net for more infor-
mation www.quietcreekherbfarm.com.
August
Aug 3 | First Annual PASA Grass-Fed Beef
Challenge Cook-Off, Lehigh County, PA. Join
us for this judged cook-off and tasting. Those
interested in entering or attending should
contact PASA headquarters.
Aug 19–21 | Ag Progress Days, Rock Springs
PA. Free admission & parking. Visit
apd.psu.edu or call 814-865-2081.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes – cherry
June to Oct.
June to Oct.
Tomatoes – greenhouses April to July, Oct. to Dec.
Turnips Sept. to January
Watermelon July to Sept.
Vegetables and Availability — source Pennsylvania Vegetable Marketing and Research Program, 2001
Creamy Spring Asparagus Soup
1 tablespoon butter
1 large leek, white part only
1 quart vegetable broth
1 bunch asparagus, about 1 lb
1 ⁄ 3 cup plain yogurt or sour sour cream
sea salt, to taste
ground pepper, to taste
Trim leek and cut in half lengthwise. Rinse out any dirt trapped inside
and slice into 1 inch pieces. Melt butter in a large saucepan over low heat,
then saute leek for 5–10 minutes until tender. Add chicken broth and bacon
slices and bring to a boil. Trim asparagus, cutting off the bottom inch and
peeling any stalks that seem tough or woody. Cut into 1 inch pieces and add
to broth, reducing heat to a simmer. Gently cook for 10–15 minutes until
asparagus are tender. Remove bacon slices.
In batches, purée the soup in a food processor or blender until smooth.
Return to saucepan and bring back to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk
in sour cream. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with crackers and creamy
goat cheese. Serves 4.
Recipe courtsey of Whole Foods (www.wholefoods.com)

22
PASA Membership Please clip this application and return with payment to:
PASA Membership, PO Box 419, Millheim, PA 16854
& Contribution Form or join online at pasafarming.org

Benefits of Membership Lifetime Memberships &

As a member you will receive: Permanent Business Partners
• A subscription to our bimonthly, Passages newsletter Contributions for Lifetime Memberships & Permanent Business Part-
nerships will be managed with care, sustaining both the ongoing
• A membership directory for networking membership as well as the long-term future of PASA. There are few
things a member or business could do to symbolize their lifelong com-
• Discounted admission to our annual conference mitment to sustainability than to place such confidence in the value
and viability of PASA itself.
• Discounted admission to our annual field day series $ 1,200
Sustaining Lifetime Member
• Invitations to other special events, such as our Please complete the Family/Farm Membership field at lower left

Harvest Dinners
Permanent Business Partner $ 3,000
• Free classified ad and discounted display advertising Please complete the Nonprofit/Business Membership field at lower left

in Passages
SUBTOTAL $
• Voting privileges
• The satisfaction of knowing that you are helping
sustain agriculture

Become a PASA Member Gift Membership

Name In addition to your own membership, you may give PASA membership
to a good friend, family member, business associate or other worthy
Company/Farm recipient on an annual or lifetime basis…a gift that keeps on giving!
Student $ 15
Address
Individual $ 45

City State Family/Farm $ 60

Lifetime Sustaining Member $ 1,200
ZIP+4 County
SUBTOTAL $
Home Phone Work Phone Name(s)

E-mail Address

City
Web Address

State ZIP+4

Are you farming: NO YES — how many acres: Telephone E-mail

How did you learn about PASA:

PASA Membership Levels

Payment SUBTOTALS
Student $ 15 $
Individual $ 45
CONTRIBUTIONS
Family/Farm Please complete field below $ 60 PASA is a registered 501 (C) 3 organization and contributions are tax exempt.

Please list all names for this Family/Farm membership. You may include children Annual Fund $ .............................
between the ages of 14–22, and also multiple generations directly involved in the farm.

Arias M. Brownback Scholarship Fund $ .............................

Nonprofit Please complete field below $ 100 Check Make check payable to PASA Total amount due
Business Please complete field below $ 150 Credit Card Complete below $
Please list up to two additional people associated with your business to receive individ-
ual membership privileges. Card No.

Exp. Date
VISA MasterCard Discover
SUBTOTAL $ Cardholder Name

Signature

23
Advertising in Passages,
So Many Options!
PASA’s newsletter Passages is printed on a bimonthly
schedule and reaches approximately 4,500 households.
Our publication is a great way to promote your upcoming
event, farm, business or market opening.
Business and nonprofit members receive a 10% discount.
Why not try display advertising today?

Reserve your July/August

edition advertorial space
now!
For a second year PASA will be offering a
special advertising section in our full-color
cover summer edition of Passages. Last year
14 businesses took advantage of our package
offer of display advertising and feature article
promoting their business — and we plan to
offer this service again in 2008.

Place Your Ad Today!

• Display ad rates start at $80 — special
rates apply for PASA business & nonprofit
members. Back Cover Ads
• Choose from single or multiple insertion PASA is selling
packages — 20% discounts for a full year ad space on our back
of advertising. cover — a great way
to have one color
• Back cover ads start at $600 with your
advertising!
Contact Michele Gauger at PASA,
email michele@pasafarming.org or visit
www.pasafarming.org & click on “Resources”
for more details on these opportunities.

Non Profit Org.

Pennsylvania U.S. Postage
Association for PAID
Sustainable Agriculture State College, PA
Permit No. 213
PO Box 419 • Millheim, PA 16854-0419