UMaine to Offer Organic Dairy Production Workshops
Contact: Rick Kersbergen, 800-287-1426
ORONO, Me.–University of Maine Cooperative Extension will offer organic dairy transition workshops at three locations: Houlton, December 4; Albion, December 5; and Turner, December 6. The workshops, each from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., are free, but preregistration is required by calling 800-287-1426 (in Maine) or 207-342-5971.
Participants will learn USDA National Organic Program (NOP) standards, as well as the ways in which current organic producers manage herd health. Presenters will also provide information to help producers evaluate the economic viability of transitioning to the organic milk market.
Organic dairy production is one of the fastest growing segments of agriculture in the Northeast. Maine leads the nation in the percentage of dairy farmers shipping to the organic market, with nearly 70 dairy farms now certified organic. Interest among farmers is strong, as organic prices for milk bring a premium that is close to double that of conventional milk prices.
These workshops are intended for farmers interested in becoming organic dairy producers, as well as those who just want to learn the rules, regulations and management techniques associated with organic production systems. The workshops are sponsored by a USDA grant for the Northeast Center for Risk Management Education.
For more information, contact UMaine Extension educator Rick Kersbergen at 207-342-5971.