Organic Survey

From Debi Kelly...

Remember the ag statistics organic survey is out this month with a deadline of June 17. If you did not get a survey in the mail you can fill it out online. Filling out this survey enables USDA to create programs for organic agriculture, for universities to commit financially within their institutions for organic agriculture programming for producers and provides rationale and justification for people like me and other educators with the university, state governments and non-profit organizations to have specific numbers of organic agriculture for grant submissions. So I ask that you please consider and then fill out the survey. Thanks. debi

USDA to Conduct First Wide-Scale Survey of Organic Agriculture
How It is Changing the Face of U.S. AgricultureWASHINGTON, April 23, 2009 - This spring, USDA will conduct the first-ever, wide-scale survey of organic farming in the United States, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said today, to find out how the growth of organic farming is changing the face of U.S. agriculture. "The Organic Production Survey is a direct response to the growing interest in organics among consumers, farmers, and businesses," said Vilsack. "This is an opportunity for organic producers to share their voices and help ensure the continued growth and sustainability of organic farming in the United States."Participants can complete the survey online at http://www.agcensus.usda.gov/Surveys/Organic_Production_Survey/FAQs/index11.asp.
Responses are due by June 17, 2009.

Farewell to a dear friend

It is with heavy hearts that we share with you that Al Hemman of Hemman Winery in Brazeau has passed away. Al has not been well for several months now so it was not a surprise for the family. Our deepest condolences to all his family and friends.

Al and Dorothy have supported the MRHA as our biggest Perry County advocates from the beginning of Beth's meetings almost 4 years ago. They rarely missed a meeting, and you could count on them to be at every event. Al was soft spoken but enthusiastic about wine making and his beloved East Perry County, we'll all miss his great stories.

Steve & Ellen Frye and Lynda Lorenz will be attending tonight's visitation and sharing the MRHA's condolences. Cards may be sent to:

Mrs. Dorothy Hemman & Family
13022 Hwy C
Brazeau, MO 63737

Al's funeral service will be held tomorrow at Salem Lutheran Church in Farrar, just up the hill from Steve and Ellen's B&B.

If you have any questions, let Lisa or Tish know. Thanks.