MOFGA hosts organic course

    PRESQUE ISLE – The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), based in Unity, will sponsor an “Introduction to Organic Agriculture” short course in Presque Isle on Friday and Saturday, March 2-3.
     Organic farming and food is currently experiencing sustained growth in popularity and consumer demand. This course is designed for both current farmers and beginners who are curious about the concepts and practicalities of organic crop production.
    The course will be taught primarily by MOFGA staff, and will cover topics such as soil science, meeting crop nutrition needs with organic materials, on-farm compost production, organic methods of weed, pest and disease control, and marketing of organic farm products. There will also be a special session on the rules and processes associated with organic certification.
    In addition to MOFGA staff, the course will feature local organic farmers Jim Gerritsen of Wood Prairie Farm in Bridgewater and Milo Hilty of Wholesome Valley Farms in Smyrna discussing their approaches to production and marketing of organic crops.
    The course, drawing farmers from all over Aroostook County, will be held at the Presque Isle Inn and Conference Center from approximately 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 2-3. Cost is $35 per person ($20 per additional person representing the same farm), and includes lunch and handouts. More information, course details, and registration materials can be found at the MOFGA Web site, www.mofga.org, or by calling 207-568-4142.