Weekly Market Bulletin State of New Hampshire

Weekly Market Bulletin Vol. 92

Concord, NH, Wednesday, December 4, 2013

From Your Commissioner . . .

‘Tis the Season to Shop Local

T

he 2013 holiday issue of People Magazine suggests gift-giving ideas from each of the 50 states. The New Hampshire recommendation is Apple Hill Farm Crisp Mix, made in the licensed kitchen at Apple Hill Farm in Concord. Those lucky enough to have sampled Diane Souther’s peach or apple crisp will know how good this recipe is. Apple Hill Farm’s crisp mix is a new item available on the NH Made website and in the NH Made stores. An 8-ounce bag costs $4.99. The People article directs folks to order from NH Made (visit www.NHMade.com or call 603-679-9800). Chuck Souther reports that their farmstand is now closed for the season—but knowing that the People endorsement was in the works, they made sure that NH Made is well stocked with crisp mix. Many NH Made products and services can be purchased online, including a number of farm products. Gift choices like Apple Hill Farm pancake mixes and jams with maple syrup from Green Acres Farm or Fuller’s Sugarhouse, for example, would make most anyone happy. Winter farmers markets, co-op stores and other independently owned local stores and markets are also good places to hunt for local and regional holiday gifts. Edible gifts and flowering plants are always welcome. In November MSNBC’s “Your Business” program featured the new buy-local gift registry called NearbyRegistry.com and entrepreneur Allison Grappone. Nearby is a new e-commerce concept created by Grappone when she and her husband were frustrated at the time of their wedding that they weren’t easily able to support their favorite local businesses through the traditional gift registry model. The couple created their own, allowing friends and family to purchase goods reflecting the couple’s values and personalities. The registry was a hit, and Grappone developed her idea into an award-winning start-up concept. Several farms are already participating on NearbyRegistry.com, including Courser Farm Kitchen in Warner, Evandale Farm in Pittsfield, Henwyn Farm in Salisbury, Heron Pond Farm in South Hampton and Miles Smith Farm in Loudon. What gifts could be more practical than pastured heritage pork, a gift certificate from a local farm or a CSA share? Also just in time for holiday gift-giving, the Ram Truck Brand has launched a book, The Farmer in All of Us: An American Portrait, published by National Geographic. The book is available for purchase now for $45 at www.ramtrucks.com/outfitter, and will be in retail stores beginning late spring 2014. The 300-page coffee table book is a collection of original farming photography, including many of the images commissioned for the Ram Truck Super Bowl commercial inspired by Paul Harvey’s “So God Made a Farmer” essay. The book features Harvey’s essay, and includes a foreword by Paul Harvey, Jr. A portion of every book purchase supports a minimum contribution of $25,000 by the Ram Truck brand to the National FFA Organization’s “Give the Gift of Blue” program—which donates traditional FFA blue corduroy jackets to members who would not otherwise be able to own one. This year’s official State House and Bridges House holiday trees come from The Rocks Estate Christmas Tree Farm in Bethlehem, owned and operated by the Society for the Protection of NH Forests. This historic and scenic property was the summer home of International Harvester cofounder John Jacob Glessner. Farm Manager Nigel Manley is the chair of the National Trees for Troops program, and The Rocks serves as a collection point for trees being donated from New Hampshire and Vermont. Trees for Troops expects to collect more than 17,000 trees from across the country to send to US military families this Christmas season. The NH Christmas Tree Promotion Board website has links to Christmas tree farms across the state: www.nhchristmastrees.com. Lorraine Merrill, Commissioner

State of New Hampshire Maggie Hassan Governor

Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food Lorraine S. Merrill Commissioner

2012 Farm Cash Receipts Down 2 Percent in New England

No. 41

New England cash receipts from farm marketings totaled $2.702 billion in 2012, a decrease of $67 million from the revised 2011 value. Cash receipts from milk sales, at $795 million, remain the top contributor to overall sales. Greenhouse and nursery sales, at $560 million, were the next largest cash contributor. Cash receipts from these two commodities comprised 50 percent of all farm sales in the 6-State region in 2012. Cash receipts were lower for greenhouse and nursery crops, apples, cranberries, wild blueberries, and milk but higher for other fruits and vegetables, poultry, aquaculture, cattle and calves, and other livestock. Crop sales in New England in 2012 were estimated at $1.372 billion, 1 percent below sales generated the previous year. The greenhouse and nursery industry remains New England’s top contributor to crop sales, comprising 41 percent of the total. Fall potatoes were the second largest contributor accounting for 11 percent of all crop sales. New England cash receipts generated from livestock, livestock products, poultry, and aquaculture in 2012 also totaled $1.330 billion, 4 percent below 2011 but 14 percent higher than 2010. This decline is due mainly to lower milk sales and prices. Cash receipts from milk sales in New England totaled $795 million, 9 percent below the previous year. Dairy producers received an average of $19.75 per cwt for milk produced, $2.04 per cwt less than a year earlier. Sales from chickens, eggs, turkeys and all other poultry totaled $162 million, an increase of 7 percent from 2011 sales of $151 million. Although fewer eggs were produced in the four major States, prices averaged 9.6 cents/dozen higher than in 2011. Cattle cash receipts were up 8 percent over 2011: improved prices received from marketings more than offset reduced sales. Maine earned first place in the region due to its diversity in agriculture cash receipts generated from fall potatoes, milk, poultry, aquaculture and wild blueberries. Total cash receipts from all agricultural commodities produced in the State totaled $703 million, less than 1 percent below the previous year. Sales generated from fall potatoes remained the top individual contributor to the State’s cash receipts total. The value of Maine potatoes marketed in 2012 totaled $141 million, 5 percent below 2011. Milk sales followed at $124 million, down 7 percent from a year earlier. A total of 609 million pounds of milk were utilized in 2012, with returns to producers averaging $20.40 per cwt. Preliminary aquaculture cash receipts were placed at $78.7 million for 2012, up slightly from $78.0 million in 2011. Poultry cash receipts were placed at $69.9 million, up 7 percent. Wild blueberry sales contributed $69.1 million, 5 percent below the previous year. Wild blueberry processing prices averaged $0.75 per pound, down $0.15 per pound from 2011. Vermont was second in the region with $699 million in the State, 8 percent below the previous year. The value of milk sales totaled $501 million, 8 percent below a year earlier. Vermont milk sales remained the top individual contributor accounting for 72 percent of Vermont’s total cash receipts. Dairy producers in Vermont received on average $19.60 per cwt for the 2.554 billion pounds sold. Connecticut was third in the region with $544 million in cash receipts, up less than 1 percent from 2011. Cash receipts from greenhouse and nursery products were estimated at $236 million, 43 percent of the State’s cash receipts total. Milk sales were the next largest contributor to Connecticut’s cash receipts, with $70 million in total revenue generated. Monies received from milk were down 11 percent from the previous year due to decreased prices received. Massachusetts followed with $510 million in total 2012 cash receipts, less than 1 percent below the previous year. Greenhouse and nursery sales remained the top contributor to Massachusetts’ total cash receipts, with sales estimated at $156.3 million. Cranberries, at $99.8 million, were the next largest contributor to the State’s cash receipts total. Growers marketed fewer barrels but higher prices received limited cranberry receipts to 4 percent below the previous year. New Hampshire’s cash receipts totaled $184 million in 2012, with greenhouse and nursery sales and milk comprising 58 percent of all receipts. Decreases in pounds of milk marketed and lower milk prices kept milk value 13 percent below the previous year. Rhode Island’s greenhouse and nursery industry dominated the State’s agricultural cash receipts, comprising $33.3 million of the total $62.1 million generated in 2012. The complete report with annual cash receipts by commodity for each State and the U. S. is available at http://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/farm-income-and-wealth-statistics/historical-us-and-state-level-farm-incomeand-wealth-statistics.aspx. U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service

Food Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

During this busy holiday season, the Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) Food Protection Section wants to remind everyone to follow some important food safety practices to avoid foodborne illnesses, such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 31 pathogens known to cause foodborne illness. Every year there are an estimated 48 million cases of illness, 128,000 hospitalizations, and 3,000 deaths in the United States due to foodborne diseases. Symptoms can vary depending on the illness, but some common symptoms are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. It is difficult to say with certainty which microbe is causing a given illness without laboratory testing. “Don’t let germs ruin your holiday activities by not taking proper precautions against foodborne disease,” said Dr. José Montero, Director of Public Health at DHHS. “There are simple tips for safe food preparation that we should all be following every day, not just at holidays, but large gatherings and people cooking outside their comfort zone can present an opportunity for bacteria to be introduced into our food.” The following simple precautions should always be followed by cooks and food service workers to reduce the possibility of anyone becoming sick: Separate: Use a separate cutting board for cooked foods and raw foods and always wash them after use. Do not cut raw vegetables on the same cutting board as raw meat. Avoid cross contamination. Wash any utensil after preparing one food item before going on to the next item. Clean: Always wash hands before touching any food. Wash hands and surfaces often during food preparation and afterward. Cook: Make sure all meats are thoroughly cooked by using a meat thermometer: turkey, stuffing, and casseroles to 165ºF; veal, beef, and lamb roasts to 145ºF; and ham, pork, ground beef, and egg dishes to 160ºF. When reheating, leftovers should be thoroughly heated to 165ºF. Chill: Refrigerate or freeze leftovers within two hours. The refrigerator should be maintained at 40ºF or lower and the freezer should be at 0ºF or lower. Keep hot foods hot, 140ºF or hotter, and cold foods cold, 40ºF or below. Never defrost food at room temperature. Thaw food in the refrigerator, in a cold-water bath, or in the microwave. When using a microwave, meat must be cooked immediately after. Marinate foods in the refrigerator. Report: Report suspected foodborne illnesses to the NH Department of Health and Human Services by calling 603-271-4496. Often calls from concerned citizens are how outbreaks are first detected. If a public health official calls you to talk about an outbreak your cooperation is important, even if you are not ill. For more information, visit www.usda.gov, www.cdc.gov, www.befoodsafe.org, www.holidayfoodsafety.org, or www.dhhs.nh.gov. To report a foodborne outbreak, call the Division of Public Health Services at 603-271-4496. NH Department of Health & Human Services

WEEKLY MARKET BULLETIN New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food STATE HOUSE ANNEX 25 CAPITOL ST., RM. 220 Mailing Address: PO Box 2042

CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE 03302-2042 www.agriculture.nh.gov Tel. 271-2505 Fax 271-1109 E-mail: [email protected] (ISSN 0043-1850)

Periodicals postage paid at Concord, NH and at additional mailing offices. Published weekly by the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, Concord, NH. Subscriptions: $28/year to receive by postal mail; $22/year to access by secure internet. Either option must be paid in advance. Mastercard and Visa accepted. Call 271-2505. Make checks payable to Treasurer, State of NH. Subscriptions expire on the last week of month indicated on mailing label. Advertising accepted in accordance with rules of the Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food and subject to final determination as to acceptability by the Commissioner of Agriculture, Markets & Food. Advertising space limited to subscribers only. POSTMASTER--Send address changes to Weekly Market Bulletin, NH Dept. of Agriculture, Markets & Food PO Box 2042 Concord, NH 03302-2042 Printed on recycled paper

Vol. 92 Concord, NH, Wednesday, December 4, 2013 No. 41

OUR OFFICE HOURS ARE 8AM TO 4PM

Agricultural Exchange ANNOUNCEMENTS

Accepting bookings for weddings, parties, reunions for 2014 & 2015 in newly expanded barn. – TROY, 242-6417.

WANTED

10x28 rear wheel for 1950 Ford 8N; parts for ’50 8N for 3pth. – NORTHFIELD, 286-4602.

CATTLE

Polled Hereford bull born 3/10/13 from Reg stock, $800. – BELMONT, 387-6421. Dutch Belt working steers, 1800lbs, well-trained on multiple implements, 4H trained & showed, v.g., $2000.– CANDIA, 483-5758.

SWINE

2 Bred Yorkshire sows, due Feb 1st, $250/ea; 16wo piglets, 50-100lbs, $65-$100/ea; Yorkshire boar, proven, $150.– ASHLAND, 968-7937. 6 pigs left, 3 females, 3 males (castarated), roasters & others, proven boar avail, $170 & up. – BRADFORD, 848-2630. Piglets ready to go, $40/ea. – GILSUM, 357-4846. 2 Brood sows, had 2 litters ea, 500+lbs, bred back for March farrowing, $350/ea; 6 piglets, 11wo, $65/ea. – OSSIPEE, 539-6172. Fruit & veggie fed pigs, $250/ea. – NOTTINGHAM, 679-3959.

POULTRY

4 Toulouse geese, all hand-raised, $25/ea. – BRADFORD, 848-2630. 1 1/2 yo laying hens for meat only, $2/ea or $1/ea if you take all.– CONCORD, 225-5355.

HAY & BEDDING

1st cut square bales, $4.50. – ALSTEAD, 835-6985. 1st & 2nd cut v.g. horse hay, mixture of timothy, clover & native grasses, $6/1st cut, $7/2nd cut. – BARNSTEAD, 269-7221. Mulch hay, appox 200 bales, $2, del avail. – CANTERBURY, 783-9222. 300 bales of mulch hay, $3. – CROYDON, 8633090. Mulch hay, $3.50. – HENNIKER, 568-1918.

CORDWOOD & LUMBER

Pineboard 1” airdried 2 years, 1700bf, $1000/bo. – NORTHFIELD, 286-4602.

BEES, HONEY & EQUIPMENT

Raw bulk honey, 20-60-lbs, $4/lb; $6/8oz; $9/lb; $17/2lbs. – MANCHESTER, 622-3526.

MAPLE

Tanaka gas tapper, approx 10yo, fair cond, $50; galvanized 300gal holding tank, fair, $50. – GILFORD, 524-7673.

PLANTS, TREES & HERBS

Fruit plants, high bush blueberries, $20/sm; $25/med; $30/lrg, $40/x-lrg, several varieties, over 1000 in stock; brambles, $15/ea. – TROY, 242-6417.

FARM EQUIPMENT

’89 Ford tractor front end loader 545 Model, gd, no 3pth but can be added, diesel, $5000; ’82 JD 350 bulldozer, gd, new battery, $5000/bo. – CANTERBURY, 783-9222. Int 656 diesel 65hp loader w/chains, $4800; CI 585 w/2250 ldr, 4wd, 55hp, v.g., $12,500; Kuhn FC300 10” disk moco-flail, fresh cutterbar, $6500; Kuhn FC250 8’ disk moco-flail, fresh cutterbar, $5500; Gehl 250 tandem manure spreader, $2200; JD 54 manure spreader, $1450; 4’, 5’ & 6’ bush hogs, $800/up; Fransgard winch V-5000, $2300. – CHARLESTOWN, 477-2011. Gehl 72 flail chopper, $1550; NH tandem axle forage box, $2500; ’59 JD 430W farm tractor, $5000; AC forage box, $500. – HENNIKER, 568-1918. MF 6’ 3pth disk harrows, $500; Kverneland auto trip 3btm plows, $2200; 7’ Arps HD 3pth scraper blade, $750. – LANGDON, 499-6863. ’50 Ford 8N, gd., $2500. – NORTHFIELD, 286-4602 Wood chipper & mulcher, Danuser commercial, Model 24p, $1750. – TROY, 242-6417.

MISCELLANEOUS

Snowblower, 6’ 3pth, gd., $1000. – BELMONT, 3876421. Craftsman electronic radial arm saw, $150; Craftsman 42cc chainsaw, case & extra chains, $125. – CONCORD, 225-5355. ’87 Corey utility trailer, $500; ’84 Honda Big Red three wheeler used for farm work, $600; homemade utility trailer, $100. – HENNIKER, 568-1918. Saw-rig w/Fairbanks-Morse 3hp Style-C engine & 24” dia saw mounted on a 4 wheel trailer, $900. – HILLSBORO, 478-0344. 12” planer w/motor, $500. – NORTHFIELD, 286-4602.

TRUCKS & TRUCK PARTS

’80 Int DT466 newly rebuilt eng & trans w/26’ flatbed can sell w/o bed or sell bed separately, $2495/bo; ’86 F250 w/plow, v.g., $1695/bo. – CANTERBURY, 7839222. Cap to fit 8’ bed Ford Superduty, $400– LANGDON, 499-6863.

Farm Grown vs. Artificial Trees

There are plenty of reasons Christmas carolers sing the praises of real Christmas trees. Real, farm-fresh fir trees are beautiful, pleasantly fragrant, and good for the environment. New Hampshire Christmas tree farmers don’t just grow beautiful trees, they also preserve open space and precious wildlife habitat by planting new trees each year and maintaining working farms. And farm fresh trees are renewable, recyclable, and natural, while artificial trees are usually manufactured in China and often contain contaminants like lead. Bring a real, farm-fresh, New Hampshire Christmas tree home for your holidays this year, and you’ll want to sing its praises, too. “Oh, Christmas Tree/Oh, Christmas Tree/ Your branches green delight us!” Approximately 25-30 million real Christmas trees are sold each year in the United States. There are close to 350 million real Christmas trees currently growing on Christmas Tree farms in the United States, and they were all planted by farmers. Christmas Trees are grown in all 50 states, but 80% of artificial trees worldwide are manufactured in China, according to the U.S. Commerce Department. Real trees are a renewable, recyclable resource. Artificial trees contain nonbiodegradable plastics and possible metal toxins such as lead. For every Real Christmas Tree harvested, 1 to 3 seedlings are planted the following spring. There are about 350,000 acres in production for growing Christmas Trees in the U.S., much of it preserving green space. Nearly 15,000 farms in the United States grow Christmas trees, employing over 100,000 people full or part time. It takes four to 15 years to grow a 6-7-foot Christmas tree, with an average growing time of 7 years. Trees provide vital habitat for wildlife, from birds to bears including many endangered and threatened species. NH Christmas Tree Promotion Board 2

Fresh Turkeys

The following producers have notified us that they have turkeys for sale: Bajaka Enterprises 1395 Battle St., Webster 648-2520/470-6276 All Natural

Battles Farm 328 Center Rd., Bradford 938-5668/748-1814 Naturally Raised

CJEJ Farm Rt. 3, Columbia 922-3305 Raised on Farm Produced Grain Crooked Pine Farm Ossipee 539-5603 [email protected] Naturally Raised & Grass Fed Halpin Farm 273 Clinton St., Concord 219-0046

Harris Farm 175 Rowe Mt. Rd., Bradford 938-2923 Harrison’s Poultry Farm 264 Tower Hill Rd., Candia 548-9348 Naturally Raised Henniker Saw 105 Newton Rd., Henniker 428-3751 Beer Fed

Hermit Brook Farm 68 Plummer Rd., Sanbornton 286-4121 Thunder Ridge Farm 354 Rt. 10., Piermont 272-5008

New Hampshire producers report the following prices being charged for fresh eviscerated turkeys picked up at the farm: $2.75-$5.00/lb. Call first to check availability.

Open Season for Farm Revenue Insurance

Open Season for Farm Revenue Insurance in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Virginia. USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) announces the Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) insurance for farmers and ranchers is again being offered in selected counties of the above states for 2014. The application deadline is January 31, 2014. Current AGR policyholders also have until January 31, 2014, to make any changes to existing contracts. AGR provides whole farm income protection under an umbrella-type policy that covers income from all crops and some livestock, provided the income from livestock and livestock products does not exceed 35 percent of total farm income. Unlike traditional crop insurance guarantees based on yields, AGR provides a guarantee against a significant decline in overall farm income from the average of the most recent five years (2007 – 2011). As a result of substantial premium subsidies provided by the USDA, AGR can be a very affordable way to guarantee an income flow from your farm operation. In addition, a similar product called AGR-Lite, which covers livestock and has a limitation of $1,000,000 in coverage. AGR-Lite is available in all counties for the states listed above for 2014. The sales closing date for new AGR-Lite contracts is March 15, 2014. Current AGR-Lite policyholders also have until January 31, 2014, to make any changes to existing contracts. Farmers and ranchers are strongly urged to contact a local crop insurance agent, as soon as possible, for more information and premium quotes for both products. For a list of crop insurance agents, farmers and ranchers may contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency office or log on to the following Risk Management Agency web site: http://www3.rma.usda.gov/tools/agents/. USDA Risk Management

Applications for Conservation Stewardship Program Due Jan. 17 Popular Farm Bill conservation program seeks producer participation

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is opening the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) for new enrollments for federal fiscal year 2014. Starting today through Jan. 17, 2014, producers interested in participating in the program can submit applications to NRCS. “Through the Conservation Stewardship Program, farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners are going the extra mile to conserve our nation’s resources,” NRCS Chief Jason Weller said. “Through their conservation actions, they are ensuring that their operations are more productive and sustainable over the long run.” The CSP is an important Farm Bill conservation program that helps established conservation stewards with taking their level of natural resource management to the next level to improve both their agricultural production and provide valuable conservation benefits such as cleaner and more abundant water, as well as healthier soils and better wildlife habitat. Weller said today’s announcement is another example of USDA’s comprehensive focus on promoting environmental conservation and strengthening the rural economy, and it is a reminder that a new Food, Farm and Jobs Bill is pivotal to continue these efforts. CSP is now in its fifth year and so far, NRCS has partnered with producers to enroll more than 59 million acres across the nation. The program emphasizes conservation performance — producers earn higher payments for higher performance. In CSP, producers install conservation enhancements to make positive changes in soil quality, soil erosion, water quality, water quantity, air quality, plant resources, animal resources and energy. Some popular enhancements used by farmers and ranchers include: using new nozzles that reduce the drift of pesticides, lowering input costs and making sure pesticides are used where they are most needed; modifying water facilities to prevent bats and bird species from being trapped; burning patches of land, mimicking prairie fires to enhance wildlife habitat; and rotating feeding areas and monitoring key grazing areas to improve grazing management. Eligible landowners and operators in all states and territories can enroll in CSP through January 17th to be eligible during the 2014 federal fiscal year. While local NRCS offices accept CSP applications year round, NRCS evaluates applications during announced ranking periods. To be eligible for this year’s enrollment, producers must have their applications submitted to NRCS by the closing date. A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help producers determine if the program is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, stewardship threshold requirements and payment types. Learn more about CSP by visiting the NRCS website or a local NRCS field office. National Resources Conservation Service

Income to Become Dominant Driver of Global Food System

Per capita income is set to eclipse population growth as the dominant driver of change in the global food system, says a Purdue researcher noted for his work on the economic impacts of global trade and environmental policies. Thomas Hertel said that while population and income will remain the two most influential factors in determining global food demand and cropland expansion, their relative importance will be altered.” For the first time in human history, income will have a greater influence than population growth on food security,” said Hertel, distinguished professor of agricultural economics. “While the global population is estimated to jump from 7 billion people to 9 billion in the next four decades, the rate of population growth rate is slowing. Meanwhile, individual incomes are increasing in many parts of the developing world, and with that growth will come more demand for richer, more nutritional diets.”

Purdue.edu

Don’t Give Barn Fires a Chance

While we don’t hear about barn fires often, they do happen, and when they do, there is usually heavy damage not only to the barn but to attached buildings, livestock, tools and equipment stored in or near the barn along with personal loss and livelihood. Taking a few simple steps can help you prevent tragic losses in the event of a fire. Are you prepared in case a fire breaks out on your farm? Developing a farm fire pre-plan with the help of your local fire department will make it easier for them to control the fire more quickly. You can download the University of Vermont Extension Farm Fire Pre-Plan datasheet at www.uvm.edu/extension/agriculture. Click on “Safety” then scroll down to the section on “Fire.” On the form there’s a place to provide your E911 address and a map of all the buildings, utilities, access roads and water sources on your property. You also can include information on family members and employees, locations of hazardous materials and stored feed and the number, type and location of animals. Keep one copy in your files and give the other to your local fire department. Be sure to update annually or any time anything changes on the farm. When checking your barns and other outbuildings to make sure that they are properly prepared for colder weather, pay special attention to any source of supplemental heat as heating equipment is one of the biggest fire dangers on the farm. This equipment needs to be properly maintained and installed to provide the warmth you want without increasing the fire risks that may come along with use of the unit. Old stoves may have cracks that can throw sparks, so be sure to go over that old piece and determine if is still safe to fire up. Maintain safe space around the unit with no combustibles within at least three feet. Do you have a fire board under the stove and in front the door so that hot embers can not fall directly on the floor? Also, is there a fire board behind it or to the side to protect the walls? Stovepipes and chimneys are another common source of problems. Old, unmaintained stovepipes are prone to small pinholes, gaps, loose joints and even see-through thinness. Get rid of them and put up new, complete with sheet metal screws to connect each joint securely.

When was that chimney cleaned last? Is it sound, free of crumbling bricks, with a safe liner? If you are unsure of any of these questions, it would be wise to contact a certified chimney sweep or mason and have it inspected. And do it now before the heating season really hits us. Clean up leaves, lumber and trash from around the perimeter of every building as these provide a direct pathway for fire to enter a building. Check your town’s burning regulations. Most outdoor fires need a permit, especially if the ground is bare with no snow cover. And keep in mind that no treated material can legally be burned, only natural wood. Many barn and outbuilding fires start as a result of blowing embers from an outside source. These can be from burning brush piles, leaves or other refuse, which often are too near the buildings. Watch the weather and wind direction and never burn upwind of buildings. Who would do that you say? Unfortunately, too many building fires that I’ve responded to as a volunteer firefighter over the years have started just that way. Another cause of building fires is old, worn, frayed wiring and outdated electrical systems. As you grow and expand your business, you will keep adding to the electrical load. When was the last time you had a certified electrician evaluate your electrical demand and service entrance panel? Do you have the capacity that your farm has grown to need? Overloaded circuits are a real danger. Those old two-wire outlets need to go. Barns and outbuildings usually are prone to moisture problems. So that means that all wiring needs to be properly grounded and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets or circuits need to be installed. These are but a few of the reasons why you need to be vigilant about preventing barn and outbuilding fires although the information is pertinent, whether you are on your farm or in your home. Here’s a parting question. Do you have a sign with the number of animals that are typically housed in each building posted by the entrance? In case of a fire, this would be very helpful to responding emergency crews. This information should be part of your farm fire pre-plan developed for and with your fire department.

George Cook, Extension Farm Safety Specialist University of Vermont

Give Green and Live Green This Holiday Season Nature Conservancy’s Top 7 Tips for a Sustainable Holiday

With ever-earlier holiday sales ratcheting up the noise, it’s easy to lose the meaning of the holiday season. But a simple celebration and green giving with family and friends is good for the Earth, your wallet and your blood pressure. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, the Winter Solstice or Thanksgivukkah, make sure that Mother Nature is an honored guest at your holiday table: Choose a real, locally grown Christmas tree—real trees are better for the planet than fakes. And recycle your tree after the holidays—most local communities collect trees to create mulch for spring planting and reduce the risk of introducing harmful forest pests. Give a gift membership to an organization that works on environmental issues that are important to your friends and family. Give the gift of nature and get outside! Schedule a trip to a special place near your home, or start a new tradition of a moonlit holiday walk to burn off all those treats. Deck the halls with LEDs! Switching out your tree lights can reduce your holiday display’s energy use by 80 percent according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Does your holiday dinner travel farther than your guests? Buy local and eat seasonal goodies to reduce the carbon footprint of your celebration, and consider giving a farm share to keep your family and friends eating well all year. Regift. Seriously. Celebrate with friends by hosting a cookie or clothing swap, or find that person for whom your unwanted gift is truly a treasure. The Nature Conservancy

McDonald’s Says ‘Thanks’ to Dairy Farmers

McDonald’s has a reality check for corporate America – it’s impressive that millions of early-risers are in the office by 7:30 a.m., but it pales in comparison to the nation’s dairy farmers. Away from the concrete jungle and maze of cubicles, dairy farmers are well into their morning routines. “Dairy farming is a 365-day-a-year job.” McDonald’s says in a new promotional video. “Hard work gets started hours before the sun rises and ends long after it sets.” The video features dairy farmers and their families from across the country, showcasing the dedication it takes to keep the nation fed. “From the rest of us who benefit from all that hard work, we can only say ‘thanks.’ What you every day is truly amazing.” Dairyherd.com

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WHOLESALE EGGS

Boston Market averages for 11/27-12/3 Brown Shelled Eggs: Jumbo, 2.52; Extra Large, 2.22; Large, 2.18; Medium, 1.43; Small, 1.14. White Shelled Eggs: Jumbo, 1.86; Extra Large, 1.86; Large, 1.84; Medium, 1.30; Small, 1.09.

RETAIL GRAIN PRICES (PER 50 LBS.) CASH & CARRY

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices RANGE AVG.

Dairy Pellets 16% Dairy Pellets 20% Coarse Dairy Ration 16% Ration 20% Ration 14% Cornmeal Calf Starter Poultry Chick Starter Mash Grower Mash Layer Mash Scratch Feed Horse Feed Hog Grower Mash Whole Corn

10.00-10.41 10.21 10.73-11.54 11.14

9.93-11.85 10.58-12.33 11.38-14.76 9.23- 9.70 13.43-14.37

14.24-18.00 12.32-18.00 11.82-14.50 10.87-15.99 11.56-16.99 10.17-13.63 9.15-10.99

10.89 11.46 13.07 9.47 13.90

16.12 15.04 12.75 12.68 14.28 12.43 9.81

BULK GRAIN PRICES (PER TON)

Prices listed for bulk grain are FOB mill in six-ton lots. Hauling charges, volume discounts and other considerations will affect the net price charged for products when delivered to the farm. PRICE. Dairy Pellets 16% 288.20 Dairy Pellets 20% 324.40 High Energy Dairy Pellets 16% 319.00 High Energy Dairy Pellets 20% 348.60 Complete Chick Starter 412.80 Complete Grower Mash 441.80 Complete Layer Mash 16% 360.80 Complete Turkey Grower 20% 420.80 Whole Corn 218.20

NORTHAMPTON COOPERATIVE AUCTION

Whately, MA, December 3, 2013 On the hoof, per hundredweight. Low High Calves 45-60 lbs. 20.00 61-75 lbs. 20.00 60.00 76-90 lbs. 30.00 54.00 91-105 lbs. 33.00 57.00 106 & Up 30.00 56.00 Farm Calves 60.00 200.00 Start Calves 10.00 60.00 Feeders 50.00 59.00 Heifers 64.00 85.00 Steers 54.00 128.00 Bulls 79.00 100.00 Beef Canners 14.00 68.50 Cutters 72.00 80.00 Utility 81.00 89.00 Sows 32.00 65.50 Boars 10.00 11.00 Shoats 52.00 60.00 Feeder Pigs, ea. 62.50 Lambs 40.00 300.00 Sheep 30.00 70.00 Goats, ea. 5.00 145.00 Rabbits, ea. 3.00 12.00 Poultry 2.50 28.50 Hay, bale 3.90 5.70

NH Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food PO Box 2042, Concord, NH 03302-2042

Question of the Week

ly consumed and dispersed by birds. The plant re-sprouts vigorously after fire or cutting. Over time, colonies of these shrubs can grow thick enough to crowd out native plants. Highway plantings of these high-fruiting species lure birds close to fast traffic, contributing to high mortality rates for some avian species. For more information on autumn olive cand other invasive plants, visit: http://www.agriculture.nh.gov/divisions/plant_industry/documents/invasive-species.pdf Got questions? UNH Cooperative Extension Education Center’s Info Line offers practical help finding answers for your lawn and garden questions. Call toll free at 1-877-398-4769, M-F, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., or e-mail us at [email protected]. UNH Cooperative Extension

Littleton, MA, December 3, 2013 On the hoof, per pound Beef Canners .50 .65 Cutters .65 .76 Utility .75 .83 Bulls .75 .98 Steers 1.00 1.15 Heifers .75 .85 Calves Growers 1.00 1.50 Veal .75 .80 Heifers .75 1.05 Other .65 .70 Hogs Feeders .20 .50 Roasters .90 1.15 Market .55 .62 Sows .40 .58 Sheep .50 .70 Lambs 1.10 1.70 Goats, by the $ 1.00 1.50 Billys 1.75 2.75 Kids .20 1.30

Periodicals Newspaper Market Quotations

Weekly Market Bulletin

Q: There’s a shrub growing in a nearby field that has multiple stalks coming from the base and red berries that birds seem to love. What is it and where can I get one? A: The plant in your photo, autumn olive, is indeed beautiful, but it’s also on New Hampshire’s invasive species list and therefore not available for sale. Autumn olive has escaped from cultivation and is progressively invading natural areas. It’s a particular threat to open and and semi-open areas. This plant tolerates poor soil conditions and may alter the processes of natural succession. Its nitrogen-fixing capabilities can interfere with the nitrogen cycle of native communities that depend on infertile soils. Autumn olive produces large amounts of fruit, which are readi-

FLAME LIVESTOCK AUCTION

Ag Calendar

Dec 5-7: 8th Annual Poinsettia Open House at UNH, 10-4:00 p.m., DURHAM. For more info go to http://www.colsa/unh.edu/aes/macfarlane.com.

Pesticide Applicator Recertification Seminars

Meetings approved by the Division of Pesticide Control for recertification credits:

December 5-6 December 10

December 17-19

Global Bed Bug Summit Sheraton Denver -- Denver, CO Contact: Megan Moloney, 703-352-6762 NHCGCSA Education Day Holiday Inn -- Concord, NH Contact: Bernard Chase, 674-1163

Various C 4 PC

2013 New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference Center of New Hampshire -- Manchester, NH Contact: George Hamilton, 641-6060 Various PC

*Private=Private Credits

*C=Commercial Credits