Learn how USDA can help you

    HOULTON — Farmers and forest landowners who are interested in learning about USDA and Southern Aroostook Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) programs and services are invited to attend an informational workshop on Thursday, Nov. 4, in Littleton. Hosted by the Southern Aroostook SWCD, the workshop will be held at the Meduxnekeag Ramblers Snowsled Club, Wiley Road in Littleton, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
    The meeting is designed to inform new or beginning farmers or agricultural/woodland owners who have had little or no participation in USDA or Conservation District programs. Speakers from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency and Rural Development, the St. John Aroostook Resource Conservation and Development Office and the Southern Aroostook SWCD will provide an overview of available programs and services. They will also give participants information they need to access those same programs and services.
    The 2007 Agricultural Census conducted by USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service indicates that Aroostook County now has 1,246 farms operating 375,568 acres.  This represents a gain of 162 farms or 15% from the 2002 Ag Census. The Census data also shows a 46 percent increase in female agricultural producers as well as an increase in the diversity of agricultural operators in Aroostook County.
    If you require special accommodations for the November 4 meeting, please notify the Southern Aroostook SWCD at 532-2087 by Nov. 1.
    Additional meetings are scheduled in the following locations: Jan. 12, 2011, Northern Maine Community College Campus, Presque Isle; and Jan. 26, 2011, St. John Valley Technology Center, Frenchville.
    For more information contact the Southern Aroostook SWCD at 532-2087, ext 3.