Emerald Ash Borer Now Found in Clay County

The number of counties in West Virginia infested with an invasive beetle is growing.

The state Department of Agriculture said Thursday that the emerald ash borer recently was found in Clay County.

The discovery raises the total number of infested counties to 17.

Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass says invasive insects can spread through moving firewood from one area to another.

The emerald ash borer has been found in 11 counties this year alone.

The others are Brooke, Berkeley, Greenbrier, Gilmer, Hancock, Kanawha, Mingo, Summers, Webster and Wirt.

The borer has killed millions of ash trees in North America.

It also has been found in recent years in Calhoun, Fayette, Morgan, Nicholas, Raleigh and Roane counties.

Kids Day at Gilmer County Farmers’ Market – This Saturday - 10.15.11

Kids Day at Gilmer County Farmers’ Market – 10.15.11

Don’t Miss The Gilmer County Farmers’ Market in Glenville - Saturday and Wdenesday

‘The Market’ vendors will sell Homemade Breads, Crafts, Jams, Honey, Eggs, Food, Fresh Vegetables, and More at the Farmers’ Market in Glenville from 9:00 AM until 1:30 PM every Saturday.

Also Checkout the Farmers’ Market on Wednesdays from Noon to 3:00 PM.

Daily G-Eye™: 10.05.11

Daily G-Eye™: 10.03.11

Glenville USDA Service Center People’s Garden

Folks in the Glenville Community didn’t know what to make of it when employees of the USDA Service Center tilled up a patch of ground by the Glenville Post Office building and had “topsoil” brought in.

But once the tilling and the shoveling stopped and the plants planted, it became apparent that this little patch of earth was to be a garden…or at least an attempt at one by USDA employees.

The looks of skepticism from passersby made it clear that not many thought it possible that anything could grow in such a “mess.”  A little uncertainty also lingered in the minds of service center employees, but was short-lived as the plants began to grow and blossom and turn into what is known as a People’s Garden.

Tom Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture, broke ground on the first People’s Garden at USDA Headquarters in DC on February 12, 2009, the bicentennial of Lincoln’s birthday.

When Abraham Lincoln founded USDA in 1862, he referred to it as “The People’s Department.”  It is a description that is as true today as it was then.

USDA touches the lives of Americans every day.

The People’s Garden is a way to commemorate this significant link to all Americans and the People’s Garden initiative is an effort by USDA to challenge its employees to establish gardens at USDA facilities worldwide or help communities create gardens.  It is this initiative that brought about the garden at the Glenville Post Office building.

No funding was provided for the establishment of the People’s Garden, but instead, the USDA service center employees donated everything.

The produce harvested was in turn donated to the Senior Center and distributed to those seniors not having access to fresh vegetables.

Although the garden was only “postage stamp” size, there were 143 pounds of fresh squash, zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, sweet banana peppers, and bell peppers harvested from it.

Service Center employees would like to extend a special thanks to Danny Furr, Joe Sealey, Shelley Richards, and Lundy Bailey for their labor contributions.

They would also like to thank Vanessa Rashella, Glenville Postmaster, for allowing the garden to be planted on postal property.

West Virginia Herb Association Conference Will Be October 01, 2011

The West Virginia Herb Association’s conference on Saturday, October 01, 2011 will host the first public presentation of the results of research using stinging nettle formulas to promote the growth and production of heritage heirloom tomatoes.

The conference will be conducted at Jackson’s Mill.

Myra Bonhage-Hale, the steward of La Paix Herb Farm, will present a Powerpoint presentation aided by Bruce Loyd, West Virginia Extension agent in Lewis County, at 9:00 AM in the Flameway Building.

This project, originally applied for as a USDA Farmer Grower’s Grant, was not funded.

“I think there is a pressing reason to examine stinging nettle as an efficacious addition to plants,“ Bonhage-Hale said. “It can be grown easily by farmers on their own land, thus decreasing drastically the increasing cost of fertilizing with petroleum based products and reducing the carbon footprint necessitated by buying those fertilizers from great distances. For this reason and the hope of improving the farmer’s life, I have spent my own money and time to do this research in organic, sustainable agriculture.“

Many photos will be shown documenting the progress of the research and detailing how farmers can duplicate this process easily.

There may be samples of the sweet tomato juice made from some of the 1,400 tomatoes harvested.

Courageous participants also will be able to experiment with getting stung by fresh stinging nettle and then applying lemon balm hydrosol which takes out the sting almost immediately.

Daily G-Eye™: 09.27.11

Daily G-Eye™: 09.25.11

First Gilmer County “Women In Ag Day” Held

On September 06, 2011, the first Gilmer County “Women In Ag Day” was held in conjunction with the Gilmer County Farm Show.

The event was organized by Gilmer-Calhoun Counties Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Executive Director, Melodie Bailey, and Program Technician, Rudeen Sealey.

Last year Melodie and Rudeen worked with WVU Extension Agent Brandy Brabham to organize and hold the same type event for the first time in Calhoun County.  Melodie has been organizing “Women In Ag” Day events since 2004, with the first being held in Nicholas County where she was employed as a Program Technician.

“I would like to see this become an annual event”, stated Bailey, “alternating locations between Gilmer and Calhoun Counties”.

Speakers at this year’s event included:

•  Secretary of State, Natalie Tennant
•  FSA State Executive Director, Alfred Lewis
•  FSA State Committee Chairperson, Marge Burke
•  Natural Resource Conservation Service District Conservationist, Andy Sentz
•  Master Gardener, Cliff Thrasher
•  Kanawha Drive Community Education Outreach Service President, Carolyn Cusick
•  WV Farm Bureau Director of Public Relations; Joan Harman
•  Agribility Program Director, Inetta Fluharty
•  Women on Wellness Program Coordinator, Janine Breyel

Although attendance at the event was lower than hoped for, the quality of the program was not diminished.

As Marge Burke stated during her presentation, “It’s not the quantity but the quality”.

Guest speakers provided a lot of valuable information to participants that ranged from available government cost-share programs for local farmers to farm safety.

Melodie and Rudeen would like to thank not only guest speakers but those that took the time to attend the event.

They would also like to say a special thank you to Gary Bush for his assistance and the Gilmer County Farm Bureau for providing refreshments.

If you were unable to attend the event and you own or operate a farm and would like more information on what programs are available through federal and state agencies, the Farm Service Agency is a good place to go to get you started.  You can call the Gilmer-Calhoun FSA Office at 304.462.7171 or stop by the office located in the Glenville Post Office Building at 201 E. Main Street, Room 122.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

Don’t Miss The Gilmer County Farmers’ Market - Today

‘The Market’ vendors will sell Homemade Breads, Crafts, Jams, Honey, Eggs, Food, Plants, Vegetables, and More at the Farmers’ Market in Glenville from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM every Saturday.

Prepare Now For Fall Insect Invaders

Several different insects, including Asian lady beetle (ALB) and brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), may invade West Virginia homes this fall to seek shelter from winter weather.

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) is encouraging homeowners to take action now to protect against potential infestations.

“Of the two, the stinkbug is the one of concern to agriculture, but both of these are major pests to homeowners,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. “Plant Industries Division gets more calls on managing ALB than any other pest.”

WVDA entomologist Berry Crutchfield, Ph.D., recommends that homeowners seal all exterior entry points to the home with caulking, weather-stripping, screens or other material. He says to concentrate efforts around doors, windows, foundation, attic vents, seams in siding, and under eaves or where pipes and wires enter the structure. Also, homeowners should seal interior entry points to individual rooms, concentrating around windows, vents, light fixtures, electrical outlets, etc.

“These practices are often easier said than done, but are the most reliable long-term control methods,” Crutchfield said.

Insecticides can also help deter fall insect invaders, but work best if applied just before pest arrival. Consider treating exterior entry points to the home, in mid-September and mid-October, with an insecticide labeled for “structure-invading” insect pests (e.g. Bayer Advanced Home Pest Control, Ortho Bug-B-Gone,  Ortho Home Defense, Spectracide Bug-Stop, Suspend, Tempo), or look for products with these active ingredients: Bifenthrin, Cyfluthrin, Deltamethrin. Follow label directions.

During winter months, periodically vacuum up visible insects. To avoid odors in the vacuum cleaner, empty and dispose of contents after each session, or use a nylon stocking stuffed into the vacuum hose and secured around the outside with a rubber band to prevent insects from entering and creating odor in the vacuum cleaner bag or canister.

The stocking will collect the insects, and can easily be disposed of in an outdoor trash can. “Sticky boards” or flypaper set near lights can also attract and capture individual insects.

Insecticide treatments are of little value during the winter, Crutchfield said, because most of the insects will be dormant in inaccessible portions of the home.

Also known as the “Halloween” or “Japanese” lady beetle, the first established population of ALB was discovered in Louisiana in 1988. Since that time, the beetle has increased its range to include most areas of the United States and parts of southern Canada.

It has plagued West Virginia homeowners since 1992. ALB feeds only on aphids and other soft-bodied insects and is generally considered to be beneficial to agriculture during the summer.

In contrast, BMSB feeds on a wide range of fruit trees, field crops, vegetables, ornamentals, and other plants.

It is currently expanding its range in the eastern U.S. and has had a devastating impact on West Virginia fruit production.

BMSB was first documented in Pennsylvania in 1998 and reached West Virginia in 2004.

Gilmer County Farm Show 2011 Ongoing

The Gilmer County Farm Show opened Tuesday, September 06, 2011 at 6:00 PM in the barn at the Gilmer County Recreation Center in Glenville, WV.

Thursday, September 08, 2011

•  8:00 AM to Noon - Enter Exhibits in the Dining Hall

•  4:30 PM - Farm Show Dinner

•  7:00 PM - 4-H/FFA Livestock Sale

Friday, September 09, 2011

•  4:30 PM - Pork Dinner

•  Games All Evening

•  Entry of Beef Cattle Exhibits

Saturday, September 10, 2011

•  8:30 AM - Beef Cattle Show

•  12:00 Noon - Covered Dish Lunch in the Dining Hall

•  12:30-1:30 PM - Remove Exhibits

•  1:30 PM - Auction

Gilmer County Farm Show 2011

The Gilmer County Farm Show opens Tuesday, September 06, 2011 at 6:00 PM in the barn at the Gilmer County Recreation Center in Glenville, WV.

Tuesday, September 09, 2011

•  Pet Show

•  Rabbit Show

•  Horse Show

•  Goat Show

•  Visit the new Farm Show Queen

Wednesday, September 07, 2011

•  6:00 PM - Dairy Cattle Show, Sheep Show, Market Steers and Swine

•  6:00 to 8:00 PM - Enter exhibits in the dining hall

Thursday, September 08, 2011

•  8:00 AM to Noon - Enter Exhibits in the Dining Hall

•  4:30 PM - Farm Show Dinner

•  7:00 PM - 4-H/FFA Livestock Sale

Friday, September 09, 2011

•  4:30 PM - Pork Dinner

•  Games All Evening

•  Entry of Beef Cattle Exhibits

Saturday, September 10, 2011

•  8:30 AM - Beef Cattle Show

•  12:00 Noon - Covered Dish Lunch in the Dining Hall

•  12:30-1:30 PM - Remove Exhibits

•  1:30 PM - Auction

Gilmer and Calhoun Counties: Women in Ag Day - Tuesday, September 06, 2011

USDA’s Farm Service Agency serving Gilmer and Calhoun Counties is conducting a “Women in Agriculture” event on Tuesday, September 06, 2011 at the Gilmer County Recreation Center in Glenville, WV from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

This event is free and open to the public; however, a donation of non-perishable goods will be accepted to assist with USDA’s Feds Farmers and Friends Feed Families effort. Farmers from Calhoun, Gilmer, and the surrounding counties, male and female alike are encouraged to participate.

The event will celebrate women’s vital role in agriculture today.

Secretary of State Natalie Tennant will be on hand to talk about Business in WV.

Representatives from federal and state agencies will also be there to provide information on assistance available to local farmers including cost-share programs and loan opportunities.

Other topics to be discussed will be farm safety and Women on Wellness, as well as a cooking demonstration.

“We are excited to bring this event to Gilmer County. Similar events have been held across the state including events in Calhoun and Harrison Counties last year,” says Melodie Bailey, County Executive Director for the Gilmer-Calhoun Farm Service Agency.

Refreshments will be provided by the Gilmer County Farm Bureau and will be served from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM.

Individuals interested in participating are asked to pre-register by Friday, September 02, 2011, by calling the USDA Service Center in Glenville at 304.462.7171, ext. 2.

Pre-registration for the event is recommended, but not required for participation.

Daily G-Eye™ : 08.31.11

Honey Month Highlights West Virginia’s Beekeepers, Extraordinary Honey Flavors

September is National Honey Month, and Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass is encouraging consumers to pick up some local West Virginia honey in lieu of the clover honey typically found in grocery stores.

Much of the Mountain State’s finest honey is on display at the West Virginia Honey Festival in Parkersburg August 27-28, 2011.

A detailed listing of honey and honey product producers is available at www.wvagriculture.org under the Marketing Division’s “Foods & Things” booklet.

“If you’ve never tried West Virginia honey, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its thickness and the intensity of the flavors,” said Commissioner Douglass. “In my mind, there’s no contest at all.”

Paul Poling, State Apiarist for the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA), said the reason for the state’s uncommon honey flavors is the types of plants that West Virginia bees feed on.

Roughly 8% of our state is forested and flowering trees are a major food source for our bees,” said Poling. “At the same time, the bees pollinate some of our most important tree species including tulip poplar, the most popular timber in the state, and black cherry, the most expensive.

Wild bees cannot do the job, Poling added, because few if any of them remain after mites and diseases decimated their numbers in the late 1980s. It takes a robust state apiary program and hard work by individual apiarists to keep commercial bees healthy. Honeybees in the wild really don’t stand much of a chance, Poling said.

In 1995, West Virginia had fewer than 200 beekeepers maintaining fewer than 2,000 colonies. In 2010, those numbers had rebounded to 1,159 beekeepers caring for 13,147 colonies.

The state has yet to discover any sign of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), which is thought to cause bees to mysteriously disappear from their hives. However, the WVDA apiary staff is staying alert for signs of CCD or any other threats to the state’s honeybees, Poling said.

Commissioner Douglass noted that it is relatively inexpensive to get into beekeeping – less than $500, generally speaking – and the growth potential for the West Virginia industry is enormous.

We don’t have much farmable land compared to many other states, but bees don’t need that,” he said. “They feed on our trees, produce honey, and can be used elsewhere to pollinate crops.”

“West Virginia beekeepers transport between 2,000 and 4,000 honeybee colonies out of the state each year as part of their commercial pollination services.

Nationally, the direct value of honeybee pollination annually to U.S. agriculture is $14.6 billion, according to a 1999 Cornell University study.

The California almond crop – half of the world’s total – is entirely dependent on honeybee pollination.

Numerous other crops are 90% dependent on honeybee pollination, including apples, avocados, blueberries, cherries, cranberries and sunflowers.

Daily G-Eye™ : 08.27.11

Daily G-Eye™ : 08.26.11

Gilmer and Calhoun Counties: Women in Ag Day Event

USDA’s Farm Service Agency serving Gilmer and Calhoun Counties is conducting a “Women in Agriculture” event on Tuesday, September 06, 2011 at the Gilmer County Recreation Center in Glenville, WV from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

This event is free and open to the public; however, a donation of non-perishable goods will be accepted to assist with USDA’s Feds Farmers and Friends Feed Families effort. Farmers from Calhoun, Gilmer, and the surrounding counties, male and female alike are encouraged to participate.

The event will celebrate women’s vital role in agriculture today.

Secretary of State Natalie Tennant will be on hand to talk about Business in WV.

Representatives from federal and state agencies will also be there to provide information on assistance available to local farmers including cost-share programs and loan opportunities.

Other topics to be discussed will be farm safety and Women on Wellness, as well as a cooking demonstration.

“We are excited to bring this event to Gilmer County. Similar events have been held across the state including events in Calhoun and Harrison Counties last year,” says Melodie Bailey, County Executive Director for the Gilmer-Calhoun Farm Service Agency.

Refreshments will be provided by the Gilmer County Farm Bureau and will be served from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM.

Individuals interested in participating are asked to pre-register by Friday, September 02, 2011, by calling the USDA Service Center in Glenville at 304.462.7171, ext. 2.

Pre-registration for the event is recommended, but not required for participation.

Mythbusters: Learn the Truth about Food Safety in Your Home

Myth: I eat a vegetarian diet, so I don’t have to worry about food poisoning.

Fact: Fruits and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet.

But justlike other foods they carry a risk of foodborne illness.

Always rinse produce under running tap water, including fruits and vegetables with skins and rinds that are not eaten.

Never use detergent or bleach to wash fresh fruits or vegetables as these products are not intended for consumption.

Myth: Freezing foods kills harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning (also called foodborne illness).

Fact: Bacteria can survive freezing temperatures.

Freezing food is not a method for making foods safe to eat.

When food is thawed, bacteria can still be present and may begin to multiply.

Cooking food to the proper internal temperature is the only way to kill harmful bacteria.

Use a thermometer to measure the internal temperature of cooked foods.

Myth: Locally grown, organic foods will never give me food poisoning.

Fact: Any food from any source can become unsafe if it is not handled and stored properly.

Consumers in their homes can take action to keep themselves and their families safe.

That is why it is important to reduce your risk of food poisoning by practicing the four steps to food safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

Myth: Plastic or glass cutting boards don’t hold harmful bacteria on their surfaces like wooden cutting boards do.

Fact: Regardless of the type of cutting board you use, it should be washed and sanitized after each use.

Solid plastic, tempered glass, sealed granite, and hardwood cutting boards are dishwasher safe.

However, wood laminates don’t hold up well in the dishwasher.

Once cutting boards of any type become excessively worn or develop hard-to-clean grooves, they should be discarded.

Daily G-Eye™ : 08.25.11

Daily G-Eye™ : 08.21.11

State Farmers to Receive Specialty Crop Block Grant Awards at State Fair Tuesday, August 16, 2011

West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass will present Specialty Crop Block Grant awards to nine West Virginia recipients at the State Fair of West Virginia in the Gus R. Douglass Annex Building Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 4:30 PM.

Over the past six years, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) has distributed approximately $1 million in funding to 134 projects throughout the state through a competitive grant award program.

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered by the WVDA.

Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, herbs, horticulture goods, nursery stock and value-added products.

The grant program encourages cooperative efforts to integrate technology at the farm level, improve marketing and promotion of locally grown specialty crops, and increase production efficiency through research projects.

“The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program has made a difference in West Virginia’s farm economy,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. “The 2011 grant projects reflect a commitment by the farming community to research, grow and market specialty crop products and we are pleased to make these grant awards to strengthen promotions and research current issues in the West Virginia food supply.”

The following grant recipients have been selected by the State Specialty Crop Block Grant Review Committee and approved by the USDA in Washington, D.C.:

“Farmers’ Market Collaborative”, Gilmer County Economic Development Association (Glenville, Gilmer County)

The Gilmer County Economic Development Association (GCEDA) is partnering with the Future Farmers of America (FFA) at Gilmer County High School (GCHS), Calhoun-Gilmer Career Center (CGCC) Environmental Studies Class, Culinary Arts Class and Beekeepers from Last Resort Farm in Ritchie County.  This project is targeting the youth in the area to enhance the need for agriculture, proper nutrition and the importance of Beekeeping to maximize pollination for a better harvest. Funds will be used to develop entrepreneurial training materials, education on proper handling and growing techniques and ways to market products through nutrition education and cooking classes.

“Tamarack Farmers’ Market”, Tamarack Foundation (Beckley, Raleigh County)

The Tamarack Farmers Market will focus on the development and eventual expansion of providing an upscale location which will feature specialty crop foods and value added specialty crops.

“Using a Community Farmers’ Market to Facilitate the Marketing of Specialty Crops in North-Central West Virginia”, South Morgantown Community Farmers’ Market (Morgantown, Monongalia County)

Through increased consumer education and marketing, the newly organized South Morgantown Community Farmers’ Market will utilize funds to increase the availability of specialty crops in the community especially during the early spring and late fall time periods. The Market will also focus on increasing sales of produce to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants by providing incentive to visit the Market.

“Training and Educating Young Beekeepers”, North Central West Virginia Beekeepers Association (Clarksburg, Harrison County)

The North Central West Virginia Beekeepers Association, in conjunction with the WVU Extension Service 4-H programs of Harrison & Doddridge Counties, will help 4-H youth from each of the two counties become new beekeepers.

“Future Farmers’ Market””, Liberty High School (Glen Daniel, Raleigh County)

Building on an earlier highly successful Specialty Crop Block Grant Program project (Kera Cherrey, “Food & Culture” curriculum development), the school will develop a Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) through the FFA to work with the developed curriculum to teach young adults how to grow, harvest and market their crops. A “Future Farmers’ Market” will provide cut flowers and vegetables to the Beckley Uptown Farmers Market while allowing a coordinated mission between multiple departments to better reach all students.

“Management of Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs on Specialty Crops in West Virginia”, West Virginia University Research Corporation (Morgantown, Statewide)

This project will conduct timely important research and outreach needed for specialty-crop protection against the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) in West Virginia. Since BMSB was reported for the first time in West Virginia in 2004, it has become a major agricultural pest in many counties of West Virginia. BMSB feeds on a wide range of host plants and high-value specialty crops are more prone to BMSB damage. Few control measures are effective against BMSB on specialty crops. The goal of this research and education project is to develop integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for growers to manage BMSB on specialty crops in West Virginia.

“New Homes for the Honeybees”, West Central Beekeepers Association (Reedy, Roane County)

A variety of fruit trees, brambles, grapes and blueberries will be grown to increase fruit production while providing an increased supply of pollen and nectar for honeybees. The project will be student centered to increase interest and develop successful beekeepers for the future.

“Increasing the Number of Christmas Tree Growers in West Virginia”, West Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association (Heaters, Statewide)

For the past 57 years, the West Virginia Christmas Tree Association members have been producing and promoting state grown Christmas trees. Recently, grower numbers have substantially decreased leaving some 25 counties without a “Choose and Cut” Christmas tree farm. The purpose of this project is to increase the number of Christmas tree growers in West Virginia to assure availability of locally-grown trees. Twelve (12) regional workshops will be held throughout the state to promote the cultivation, management and marketing practices necessary to successfully produce quality West Virginia grown Christmas trees.

“Sharing the Bounty Incubator”,  Arnettsville Community Association (Morgantown, Monongalia County)

This project, administered by the Arnettsville Community Association (ACA), will build on the talents of local 4-H leaders, Master Gardeners, University Extension, farmers, businesspeople, community volunteers and others to create/expand local specialty crops businesses; improve access to and consumption of specialty crops by the entire community; inspire local youth to create their own businesses; and encourage the transfer of skills between senior citizens and younger generations.

August is Asian Longhorned Beetle Awareness Month

August has been designated as Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) Awareness Month.

This is an invasive insect introduced from Asia that infests several different types of trees that commonly grow in West Virginia including maples, poplars, willows, ash, elm, birch and mimosa.

ALB infestation will threaten timber, nursery stock, shade trees and maple syrup production in our state.

“With the recent find in Ohio, it is important that we are on the lookout for ALB,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. “ALB has always been found first by concerned citizens. Their reports have been vital in making eradication efforts in other states successful.”

The ALB beetle is 1 to 1½ inches long with distinctively banded white and black antennae that are longer than the body. The beetle is shiny, jet black and has distinctive white spots on its back. For more information on ALB, visit www.beetlebusters.info.

There are also many signs that ALB is present: shallow divits in the bark where the eggs are laid; sap seeping from wounds in the tree; dime-sized (¼” or larger), perfectly round exit holes in the tree; sawdust-like materials called frass on the ground and the branches.

“We hope ALB Awareness Month encourages folks to familiarize themselves with this beetle, the symptoms of its presence and to get out and check their trees,” said Forest Entomologist Tim Tomon. “If you see ALB, please call the West Virginia Department of Agriculture at 304.558.2212.”

ALB probably traveled to the United States inside solid wood packing material. However, several outbreaks are also known to have occurred due to the movement of firewood from infested areas to those where susceptible host material was available.

Outbreaks in Illinois, New York and New Jersey were either eradicated or are believed to be on the way to eradication.

This changed in 2008, when a major outbreak was discovered in Worcester, Mass. To date, attempts to battle this pest have cost $50 million and required the removal of approximately 100,000 trees.

This summer, a new infestation was discovered in Bethel, Ohio, near Cincinnati.

This outbreak is approximately 90 miles from the West Virginia border.

Since the discovery of this outbreak in June, more than 17,000 trees have been surveyed and more than 400 infested trees have been found.

Daily G-Eye™ : 08.06.11

West Virginia Celebrates National Farmers’ Market Week

Communities throughout West Virginia are celebrating farmers, locally-grown foods and feeding local families at farmers’ markets.

United States Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack has proclaimed August 07-13, 2011, as National Farmers’ Market Week.

West Virginia Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass kicked off the West Virginia celebration with a corn roast on the north side of the State Capitol Complex August 03, 2011, at 11:00 AM and coincided with the popular “Capitol Market Goes to the Capitol.”

The corn roast was free and open to the public, as long as supplies last. Patrons of the marketplace were encouraged to enjoy a fresh roasted ear of corn compliments of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. Educational materials about local markets, pick-your-own fruit and vegetable farms and sweet corn cooking tips were available.

Since 2000, the number of farmers’ markets has grown 150%, from 2,863 markets to 7,175 in 2011.

West Virginia boasts more than 50 markets statewide that participate in programs such as Senior Farmers’ Market Coupon Program (SFMCP) and Women’s, Infants and Children voucher programs (WIC).

“Farmers, as stewards of rural West Virginia, come together weekly at markets located in communities throughout the state to provide food for local families,” said Commissioner Douglass. “These markets are contributing to the economy while increasing access to fresh, nutritious food.”

Commissioner Douglass encourages citizens of the state to continue supporting their local markets and the farmers who work hard to provide a large variety of fruits and vegetables. “Farmers’ markets give the consumer an opportunity to know local farmers and Farmers’ Market Week is a great time to meet these dedicated agriculture professionals.”

Girl Scouts at Gilmer County Farmers’ Market

The Girl Scouts are very proud of their presence at the Glenville Farmers’ Market.

They do a good job of meeting/greeting folks and their baked goods are very tasty.

~~  by Melissa Gish - Editor of Fresh Picks, Glenville Farmers’ Market newsletter ~~

EPA Decision Clearing the Way for Insecticides Against Stink Bugs

Senator Jay Rockefeller announced that West Virginia farmers and others will have additional tools to use against stink bugs in the form of two newly approved insecticides approved for emergency use in West Virginia.

“I’ve been paying close attention to this issue, and I’m encouraged that the EPA has taken this important step to protect our farmers,” Rockefeller said. “I also recognize that this is only part of a solution and that continued research is needed to permanently control the stink bug population.”

The announcement comes on the heels of one of Rockfeller’s recent “Making it America” manufacturing roundtables. Convened in May in Martinsburg, W.Va., the panel brought together a group of West Virginia small farmers, introducing them to retailers, grocers and government agencies to help the two sides work together in boosting production, connecting farmers with markets and consumers looking for local products and creating new jobs.

During the meeting, Rockefeller heard from several farmers and the State Department of Agriculture that the stink bug population was among the top threats to their crops. The marmorated stink bug is an invasive insect that causes yield loses in tree fruits. Apple farming is a mainstay of the Eastern Panhandle farm industry.

The EPA’s new guidelines approved, for emergency use, the insecticide dinotefuran on tree fruit to help manage populations of stink bugs. The approval, known as an emergency exemption, allows its use twice per growing season.

The EPA’s new rule also approved the use of plant-based products containing azadirachtin and pyrethrins, two non-chemical products used for organic food production. To be certified organic, produce must use plant-based methods to control insect damage.

“Because farming has always been important to our economy and culture in West Virginia, we need be sure our farmers today can thrive,” said Rockefeller.

Daily G-Eye™ : 07.08.11

Glenville: Farmers’ Market - 07.05.11

The Glenville Farmers’ Market has a new periodic newsletter, Fresh Picks that is available at the market, at various locations in Glenville, and online.

The newsletter is sponsored by Glenville State College.

Come out to the Market on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and please visit the Market’s new glenvillemarket.wordpress.com.

The Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, honey, jams & jellies, handcrafted items, and other fun stuff!

We had a great time today, and we’re already looking forward to next Saturday.

How Tall Is Your Corn?

Record or near-record rainfall this past spring in West Virginia has put the state’s farming community a few weeks behind schedule, but one county extension agent says corn is “knee high on the 4th” in his county.

WVU Extension Agent Rodney Wallbrown in Mason County says both sweet corn and feed corn are running a few weeks behind because of the rain but it’s growing well now.

“We’ve got shoulder high corn,“ Wallbrown told MetroNews Friday. “It’s growing fast and especially for the farmers that use good management and do a little side dressing with nitrogen the growth is amazing.“

Wallbrown says state residents will be able to find some West Virginia-grown sweet corn this holiday weekend but most of the crop won’t show up at stores and farmers markets for a couple of more weeks.

“Just simply because it was planted later. Most of the corn looks good,“ Wallbrown said. “It (spring rain) just put us a little behind but I think you’ll see at the end of the year probably as good of production as ever.“

Wallbrown says the soybean crop is also important to Mason County farmers. He says that also got a late start but germinated well and he expects a good harvest before the first frost of the fall.

Farmers’ Market Vouchers Now Available at Senior Centers

Senior citizens who qualify may begin signing up for the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) at senior centers throughout the state, according to Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass.

“This is an extremely popular program that benefits agricultural producers large and small, while providing low-income senior citizens with fresh and nutritious locally grown produce,” Commissioner Douglass said.

The SFMNP provides eligible seniors with $20 worth of coupons that can be used for fresh produce at local farmers’ markets. Participants can register for the program and pick up the coupons at the same time, but must meet specific age and income limits.

Participants must be at least 60 years old. A household of one must make less than $20,147, a household of two must make under $27,214, and a household of three must make under $34,281. If a proxy is signing up for a participant, they must have a signed statement from the participant giving them authorization to do so. This must include the participant’s name, address and phone number. Proxy forms are available at your local senior center.

The program is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture – which will provide approximately $520,000 for the program this year. It is administered by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, which provides training for vendors that accept the vouchers, and oversight of other program details.

Signup for 2012 Gypsy Moth Suppression Program to Begin July 01

Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass is urging West Virginia landowners to help the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) and West Virginia University (WVU) Extension Service fight gypsy moths, the state’s number one plant pest, through the Cooperative State-County-Landowner (CSCL) Gypsy Moth Suppression Program.

The CSCL Gypsy Moth Program will accept egg mass survey applications from landowners in Barbour, Berkeley, Braxton, Brooke, Doddridge, Gilmer, Grant, Greenbrier, Hampshire, Hancock, Hardy, Harrison, Jefferson, Lewis, Marion, Marshall, Mineral, Monongalia, Monroe, Morgan, Nicholas, Ohio, Pendleton, Pleasants, Pocahontas, Preston, Randolph, Ritchie, Taylor, Tucker, Tyler, Upshur, Webster, and Wetzel Counties.

The signup period runs from July 01-August 31, 2011.

Landowners must provide a 7½-minute topographic map with property boundaries clearly marked. The WVDA cannot map your property for you. Topographic maps are available from the United States Geological Survey at 1.800.ASK.USGS or their website at store.usgs.gov.

The minimum acreage required to participate in the program is 50 contiguous acres of wooded land. Adjoining landowners may combine their properties to meet the acreage requirement. Blocks must be made as rectangular as possible to be treated properly by aircraft without significant overspray.

The presence of electrical transmission lines, communication towers, etc. may prohibit some blocks or portions of some blocks from being sprayed.

Application forms and brochures detailing the program are available at the WVDA’s Plant Industries Division website at: www.wvagriculture.org/images/Plant_Industries/About_Us.html or home.comcast.net/~wvdanewcreek/, your local WVU Extension offices, and at WVDA field offices in Elkins (304.637.0290), Inwood (304.229.5828), Morgantown (304.285.3133), New Creek (304.788.1066), and Moorefield (304.538.2397).

Once applications are received, a forest health protection expert will visit the property to determine if the level of gypsy moth infestation meets program guidelines. A final decision to participate in the program must be confirmed by signing a contract and making a deposit to the WVDA by early December 2011. A final payment to the WVDA will be required prior to actual treatment. Notification of the deadline for final payment will be by mail.

During the last few years, the cost for gypsy moth treatment under the CSCL Gypsy Moth Program has been $33.43 per acre for Btk and $20.96 per acre for Dimilin, but prices for the coming year may be higher.

A 50% cost share on treatments may be available from the USDA Forest Service through a cooperative agreement with the WVDA.

The total cost depends on the USDA Forest Service cost sharing, total acres proposed for treatment, and the cost of the insecticide and aerial application.

For more information, contact WVDA Plant Industries Division Director Sherrie Hutchinson at 304.558.2212 or Assistant Division Director and Gypsy Moth Program Manager Quentin “Butch” Sayers at 304.788.1066.