As more Vermont dairy producers look to increase homegrown forage and reduce purchased feed costs, there has been an increased interest in corn and soybeans grown for grain in Vermont.

With the implementation of new crops come new challenges. Join UVM Extension for a workshop designed to provide practical information on growing, harvesting, and storing grains, as well as the impact on water quality and soil health. This is the second workshop in an ongoing series related to grain production for dairy farms.

This meeting is a collaboration among three UVM Extension teams — Ag Business, Northwest Crops and Soils, and Champlain Valley Crop, Soil and Pasture Team. It is co-hosted by the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition. The day’s agenda includes:

• Heather Darby and Northwest Crops and Soils team will discuss considerations on varieties of corn and soy optimal for the Northeast.
• Abby Augarten and Joshua Faulkner from the Champlain Valley Crop, Soil and Pasture team will present preliminary data on nutrient balances and the water quality impacts of growing soybeans.
• A farmer panel comprised of producers who have integrated grain production into their operations will share the knowledge they have gained.

This is a free event and lunch will be provided. Register by March 19.