The beginning of summer vacation certainly has been busy around here!  As my kids said goodbye to another year of school, I resumed classes for the summer session for college.  I am taking classes toward an Ag degree at Oregon State University.  Having been eleven years since completing an Associates degree, I have been pretty careful about the class-load and since Math is not a strong subject for me, I opted to make it my sole summer class.  Turns out, that was a wise choice.  Last week it was Euler and his formulas relating to circuits.  ((Gag))  This math class is a study of everyday math and I had already taken it once while studying in Hawaii.  Math is different in Hawaii, but that’s a whole ‘nother post.  Regardless, it didn’t transfer.

So, here’s me on my little farm running my clutch of little chicks on summer vacation to different activities wondering what in the world is “everyday” about Euler and his circuitry and graphs.  And then it dawned on me…perhaps I already know about Euler, but, I didn’t know that I knew!  Here’s where the farming comes into play…

A few weeks ago, Diane and I wrote about our daily lives living on a farm.  A lot of point A to point B and beyond.  And in order to get the maximum amount done, we have to be pretty efficient with our footsteps.  After all, we are pretty busy ladies. So, as I set out to do chores I think about what needs to happen to set my route.  Now, Euler was made famous for this when he solved a bridge problem (you should look it up, I can’t explain it very well) and companies who use an Euler circuit can save serious money!  So, if I use a  Euler circuit while doing farm chores, it will free up some time and energy to accomplish more important things, like Balsamic Vinegar Strawberry Jam!!!

And that leads me to the real point of my story.  It is finally strawberry time and we are on the cusp of raspberries, too!  Jams and jellies are a great way to explore food preservation and I would love to teach you how to do it!  Don’t worry, we won’t be discussing Euler’s circuitry.  My classes are FAR more interesting than that!  Plus, we will make a batch to share!  So, head on over to the WSU Kitsap Website and sign up for my class THIS Thursday!  This class will be from 10 am to 1 pm and is held at the Silverdale Community Center.  You will also notice that “Jammin” is a class from the Hip Homesteading summer series exploring everything from Jams, Pickles, Soap, Cheeses, Pressure Canning…there’s something for everyone!

If you are looking for local strawberries, Pheasant Fields Farm has them!  We spent an hour in her patch picking strawberries that she will sell at the Silverdale Farmers Market today!  These berries are the smaller more flavorful ones, perfect for a batch of delicious jam!

And as your going about your daily business, give Euler’s Theorum a thought…there just may be some time in your day to make some jam!

Upcoming WSU Kitsap Extension Small Farms Team Classes!

Featured Events

Upcoming WSU Kitsap Extension Small Farms Team Classes!

• Preserving the Harvest: Under Pressure! March 22, 6:00pm-9:00pm
  • President’s Hall Kitchen at the Fairgrounds.
  • $35/person, $10/4-H members, $5/Pressure gauge testing.
• Chickens 101: Backyard or Barnyard! April 9, 10:00am-Noon
  • At Kingston Farm, Kingston, WA
• Hogs 101: Field to Fork! April 30, 10:00am-Noon
  • At Possum Run Farm, Port Orchard, WA
  • $35/person or $50 per family. Take both classes for $60!

For information and class registration: http://kitsap.wsu.edu or (360) 337-7157

Local Events

NEW!! Backyard Farming and Re-skilling Open House at Stillwaters~March 12, 10:00am-1:00pm

If you keep chickens or bees or grow vegetables on your property, know how to darn your socks or sharpen a tool you might have something to share! Learn about reskilling: re-learning the skills our grandparents used daily. At Stillwaters Environmental Education Center, http://stillwatersenvironmentalcenter.org/documents/Feb11StillwatersProgramInsert.pdf Suggested donation $5-15.

Kitsap Food and Farm Policy Council~March 17, 5:00pm

Port Blakely Room, Kitsap County Adminstration Building, Port Orchard. http://www.kitsapfoodchain.org/. For info: Jamie Forsyth jforsyth@co.kitsap.wa.us

KCAA – Meet the Farmers and Meet the Farmers Markets~March 21, 6:30-8:30pm

Join us for a Grown and Made then Sold in Kitsap fair (this includes all of the Kitsap Peninsula. The space is small, so no tables or tents but bring your brochures, pictures, and info on your products. Potluck. Island Lake Community Center.

West Sound Beekeepers Association~March 22, 7:00pm

At Stedman’s Bee Supplies, 3763 NW Anderson Hill Road, Silverdale, Washington. The general membership meeting follows the beginner beekeeping class that meets from 6:00p.m. to 6:45p.m. info@WestSoundBees.org

Peninsula Fruit Club Spring Grafting Show~March 26, 11:00am- 5:00pm

Learn how to graft, buy rootstock and make a tree or add to an existing tree. Information on pests, diseases, native pollinators and much more. Silverdale Community Center, 9729 Silverdale Way.

NEW!! Grow Your (Kitsap Community Food) Co-op!~April 2, 5:30 to 7:30pm

At Seaside Community Center in Bremerton. Our “1st Annual Grow Your Co-op” event! This potluck dinner will be open to Member-Owners and the community. Get ready to mingle with your fellow cooperators, celebrate the hard work of the committees and event staff, and share our ideas and visions for the future! http://www.kitsapfoodcoop.org/Welcome.html

NEW!! Cooking with Kale~April 3, 2:00-400pm

Cooking with an unfamiliar green can be intimidating. So, instead you stay away and make a salad! I want to bring you into the kitchen with this delicious, healthful and easy to grow green: Kale. We will make a Quinoa Kale Au-Gratin and also bake kale for the most delectable crunchy treat! RSVP to 360.813.1301 or cynthia@rlf1916.com by Saturday, 3/26. At Carter’s Chocolates, Port Orchard Town Center. $30/Member-Owners & $40/community members.

Dan Hinkley: Design Elements in the Garden ~April 9, 2:00pm-5:00pm

Master Gardener Foundation of Kitsap County Gala Event and Silent Auction to Benefit the Master Gardener Program in Kitsap County including food-production and demonstration gardens, clinics and educational outreach. To order tickets http://www.kitsapgardens.org/. At the Sons of Norway Lodge, 18891 Front Street, Poulsbo.

Evening everyone!  Just got back from the first night of the 2011 WSU Agricultural Entrepreneurish and Business Planning Class!  Awesome group of folks – lots of enthusiasm for farming!

I also spent some time cruisin’ the blogroll tonight and read a great post on Dropstone Farm’s Blog about cooking in the Dark Days!  Check it out!  We have also been working on the Dark Days Challenge here – but haven’t blogged about it.  Maybe tomorrow while I am getting ready for the Cheese Making Class on Saturday (ack!)  Of course, the last time I got doing something else while I was making cheese it didn’t go that well.   Cheese needs your attention!

Local Events

Growing Groceries – Organically
January 8 – February 19
Grow your groceries organically – a series of four classes designed and taught by WSU Kitsap Master Gardeners to help you create your own backyard organic vegetable garden. WSU Extension Office, MG Program, 345 6th Street, Bremerton, WA 98337. http://kitsap.wsu.edu/Organic_Gardening_2011.pdf

WSU Kitsap Extension “Cultivating Success: Agricultural Entrepreneurship” Course
January 19 – April 13, 2011, 6:30 – 9:00pm
New and existing farmers will gain skills in business planning and direct marketing, learn to evaluate resources, legal and management issues, marketing strategies, budgets and financial statements, and develop a business plan for their farm enterprise. Norm Dicks Government Ctr. in Bremerton, WA. $225 farm/family/enterprise. For more information or to sign up for this course, contact Arno Bergstrom, WSU Kitsap County Extension at 360-337-7225, or awbergstrom@wsu.edu. Register here: http://kitsap.wsu.edu/ag/business_course.htm

West Sound Bee Keepers Association
January 18, 7:00pm
At Stedman’s Bees. info@WestSoundBees.org

Kitsap Mason Farm Bureau
January 20, 7:00pm
Belfair QFC conference room. For info: Jerry Garner Jlgarner2@embarqmail.com

Art of Making Cheese
January 22, 1:00-4:00pm
January 24, 6:00-9:00pm
Got milk? Learn to make cheese! Soft and hard cheese making techniques you can use in your home kitchen! Jan 22nd at the Silverdale Community Center. Jan 24th at the Fairgrounds in the President’s Hall Kitchen. Registration info: http://kitsap.wsu.edu or shannon.harkness@wsu.edu or (360) 337-7157

NEW!! Backyard Chickens / Chickens 101
February 5, 1:00-4:00pm
The class will cover care and brooding of chicks, equipment, housing for adult birds, feeds and feeding, chicken health, manure management, chicken breeds, and much more! At the Norm Dicks Government Center, Room 406, 345 6th Street, Bremerton WA 98337 Cost: $35 Contact: shannon.harkness@wsu.edu or dfish@wsu.edu

Canning 101
February 12, 1:00-4:00pm
February 22, 6:00-9:00pm
Preserving food sounds a little daunting to those who have never learned how to safely do it. Home food preservation does require knowledge, equipment, and time. Join us as we learn the basics of food preservation in this 3 hour workshop. Offered Saturday, February 12th at Silverdale Community Center and February 22nd at President’s Hall Kitchen. Registration info: http://kitsap.wsu.edu or shannon.harkness@wsu.edu or (360) 337-7157.

Westsound Small Farms Expo!
March 5, 8:00am-5:00pm
Save the date for the first Westsound Small Farms Expo! Classes for farmers and ranchers. Topics include agritourism, season extension techniques, managing mud, pastured poultry, network with local farmers, visit vendors and much, much more! Registration info: http://kitsap.wsu.edu or shannon.harkness@wsu.edu or (360) 337-7157.

Regional Events

NEW!! Orcharding on the Westside
January 22, 9:00am-4:00pm
Topics include the basics of tree fruit production, varieties and different fruit kinds, rootstocks, nutrient management, pest management, irrigation, orchard layout planting, pruning, and harvest indices. $75 per person and includes a catered box lunch. Location is Ed’s Apples in Sultan, 13420 339th Ave SE just off SR 2. www.BrownPaperTickets.com/event/136747 or Karie Christensen at (425) 357-6039, e-mail klchristen@cahnrs.wsu.edu.

NEW!! Form I-9 Compliance Training.
January 25, 1:30–4:30pm
Hands on training in the proper procedures for completing and retaining the Form I-9; Latest information on responding to a government audit; Procedures for you to conduct an I-9 self audit. At the WFB Building – 975 Carpenter Rd NE, Lacey, WA 98516. http://www.wsfb.com/educationtraining

Country Living Expo & Cattlemen’s Winterschool
January 29, 7:30am – 5:00pm
Over 150 classes are offered from raising backyard chickens, chain saw maintenance, naturally dye wool and fabric, organic gardening, to learning about having your own family milk cow. $60 (inc 5 class sessions, a smoked prime rib or gourmet vegetarian lunch, and all-day trade show. At Stanwood High School. http://skagit.wsu.edu/countrylivingexpo/

NEW!! Saving the Family Farm
February 4, 7:30am-3:30pm
Join Union Bank, WealthCounsel, LLC, and the Washington State Conservation Commission for an event for farm families and attorneys and others interested in preserving the family farm. At the Union Bank headquarters located at 332 Southwest Everett Mall Way. Info: Amy Ward 206.587.4751 / amy.ward@unionbank.com. Reg by Jan 28th.

Washington State Swine Information Day
February 4, 8:45am-5:30pm
Presentations organized to meet the diverse and unique needs of the Pacific Northwest swine producer. Topics include transportation requirements on Washington highways, animal handling, basic swine nutrition and show pig carcass quality. Organized and sponsored by Washington Pork Producers, National Pork Board, and Washington State University Extension. Pillar Rock, Moses Lake, WA. Contact Sarah M. Smith 509-754-2011, Ext. 413 or smithsm@wsu.edu

NEW!! 7th Annual WFB Labor Conference
February 16
At Central Washington University in Ellensburg – the only conference dedicated to the labor and employment needs of Washington’s seasonal employers. Washington Attorney General Rob McKenna will provide the keynote address. http://www.wsfb.com/educationtraining

NEW!! Basic-Plus Cheesemaking Shortcourse
February 16-18
This 3-day offering is intended for the beginning cheesemaker who is serious about pursuing Cheesemaking as a business activity at the farmstead or artisan level. Avid hobbyist and enthusiasts are welcome too! Lynden, WA. Info: Marc Bates cheeseguy@charter.net 509-595-8652. $529. Registration: http://www.wsu.edu/creamery/basicplus.htm#

Northwest Washington Farm to Table Trade Meeting!
February 22
Grow your business with new market connections between local buyers and producers! This day-long gathering is designed to foster market opportunities for local farmers, ranchers, chefs, distributors, restaurateurs, processors, caterers, grocers and anyone who has a stake in the NW Washington food economy. Saint Joseph Peace Health Hospital Conference Center, Bellingham. lridenour@sconnect.org or call 360-647-7093.

NEW!! Dormant Pruning
February 26, 10:00am-3:00pm
Topics covered include the basics of pruning with an emphasis on the techniques and goals of dormant pruning. You’ll learn what issues can be addressed or exacerbated, the physiology of a tree’s response to pruning, along with what to look for when deciding to prune, or not to prune. Dress for weather & mud; bring gloves & pruners for practice. www.BrownPaperTickets.com/event/136751 $65 per person. Andrew Corbin, corbina@wsu.edu (425) 357-6012.

NEW!! The Puget Sound Food Network Training
March 7
Aimed at helping our members take full advantage of their annual membership. These one-on-one trainings will equip attendees with an in depth knowledge of how to use the PSFN site, a customized online profile, and updated marketplace listings. The PSFN Operations Manager and Account Managers will be on hand to discuss how PSFN can help grow your business! At the NABC office, 419 S 1st St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. Info: Ann Leason ann@psfn.org

Local Events

Register here: http://kitsap.wsu.edu/ag/business_course.htm

Regional Events

Local grower, Jerry Reid, at Alpine Chose and Cut on Old Belfair Hwy. See the story in the Kitsap Sun

NEW!! Local Christmas Trees!

Local Choose and Cut Christmas Tree Farms are open for business! The Kitsap Sun maps local farms http://www.kitsapsun.com/christmas-trees/ or you can check out the Christmas Tree Growers Assn. Guide at: http://www.nwtrees.com/choose_and_cutframe.htm.  Buy a locally grown Christmas Tree and support local farmers!

Local Events

Celebrate Kitsap Foods with growers, processors, distributors, eaters, composters and educators.  This food event is being presented in conjunction with Terra Madre events all over the world.  At the Jenne Wright Center, Silverdale, WA.  For info: www.kitsapfoodchain.org or 360-337-7080.

Bainbridge Island Vineyards and Winery Special Holiday Tasting and Sales ~ December 12 & 19, 11:00am – 5:00pm

Laughing Crow Farm and others will be selling seasonal vegetables and signature garlic braids benefitting the EduCulture Project.  Bring home a special taste of Bainbridge to your Holiday traditions and support local Farm-to-School programs. Tours available upon request, schedule/weather permitting. The Vineyards and Winery and Farms located at 8989 Day Road East, Bainbridge Island, WA   98110.  For info: (206) 842-9463.

Kitsap Community and Agricultural Alliance (KCAA) ~ December 13, 6:30 – 8:30pm

Panel and Attendee discussion about upcoming changes in Kitsap County zoning code for agricultural activities.  The new zoning will affect everything from growing and selling fruit and vegetables to owning livestock, including horses. At the Eagle’s Nest, Kitsap County Fairgrounds, Silverdale, WA.

Bainbridge Island Indoor-Outdoor Winter Market ~ Until December 17, 10:00am – 3:00pm

At Eagle Harbor Church, Winslow Way at Madison.. Meat and veggies for the holiday table; desserts like Buche d’Noel and chocolate truffles, heirloom-recipe gingerbread and high-octane fruitcake; gifts; and holiday décor.

Regional Events

Western Washington Small Fruit Workshop ~ December 7

A comprehensive full day of the latest relevant research information delivered by the scientists performing the research on small fruits offered by WSU – Whatcom County Extension.  Info/registration: http://whatcom.wsu.edu/ag/sfw/ At the Rotary Building, NW WA Fairgrounds, Lynden.

WSFB Bridging the Generations Estate Planning Seminar ~ December 8

Join Washington Farm Bureau and our attorney, accountant, and financial planning sponsors in an educational seminar about estate taxes and the steps you should be taking now, in light of the changes to the estate tax law that will occur at the end of this year. For more details and to register, please visit our website at:  http://www.wsfb.com/educationtraining

WSU/UI Beef 300 Short-Course ~ January 5-8

A 3½ day, hands-on workshop designed for progressive individuals involved with the beef cattle industry.  The course will focus on teaching producers, feeders, and marketers how to produce and market quality cattle and beef products, including how environmental, nutritional, genetic, and managerial factors contribute to meat quality. At the WSU Department of Animal Sciences, Pullman and UI Livestock Pavilion, Moscow. $200/person by December 15. Incl meals, materials, and parking (not hotels).  For info:  Jan Busboom, (509)335-2880 or busboom@wsu.edu; or Sarah M. Smith,  (509)754-2011, Ext 413 or smithsm@wsu.edu.

Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) ~ January 14, 8:00am – 4:00pm

Session 1 provides a GAPs overview and initial guidance on implementing on-farm food safety practices.  Session 2 offers participants the opportunity to discuss and work with speakers to address food safety issues specific to their farming system. Participants must attend a Session 1 workshop to attend Session 2.  Registration for both workshops is $75.00. WSDA Building, 1111 Washington St. SE, Room 172, Olympia, WA 98501.  For info/registration: http://foodsafety.wsu.edu/

Country Living Expo & Cattlemen’s Winterschool ~ January 29, 7:30am – 5:00pm

Over 150 classes are offered from raising  backyard chickens, chain saw maintenance, naturally dye wool and fabric, organic gardening, to learning about having your own family milk cow. Early registration until Dec. 31. $55/person (inc 5 class sessions, a smoked prime rib or gourmet vegetarian lunch, and all-day trade show. After Dec. 31 $60/person.  At Stanwood High School, 7400 272nd Street N.W. in Stanwood.

A-Mazing Fall Fun at Local Farms!

SUNRISE HILL FARM CORN MAZE AND PUMPKIN PATCH, 11033 NE Tulin Road, Kingston, (360) 297-2334. http://sunrisehillfarm.org/the-corn-maze
PHEASANT FIELDS FARM, 13274 Clear Creek Road NW, Silverdale, (360) 697-6224.. http://www.pheasantfields.com/
MINDER FARM CORN MAZE, 1000 Gluds Pond Rd. NE, Bremerton (360) 692-9271.. http://www.mazeplay.com/minder-farm-corn-maze-pumpkin-patch
CREEK HOUSE FARM, 6060 East Collins Road, Port Orchard, WA 98366. Phone: (360) 871-7267. http://www.creekhousefarm.com/pumpkinpatch.html

Poulsbo Farmer’s Market Harvest Dinner
October 10, 6:00-10:00pm
Join us at Mor Mor Bistro for our annual fundraiser. Tickets are on sale now at the PFM booth on Saturdays and Liberty Bay Bookstore – Poulsbo, 18881 Front Street.; 360-779-5909. $75 per person; Seating is limited – secure your seat now!

NEW!!  UW Program on Climate Change
October 13, 3:30 – 5:00pm 
UW Program on Climate Change will discuss climate change science and the effects of climate change on the Pacific Northwest.  Olympic College, Bremerton campus, HSS 129 – Lecture Hall

10th Annual Bainbridge Island Environmental Conference
October 17, 1:00 – 5:30pm
Join for a conversation on “Protecting Bainbridge Island’s Shoreline Environment” and panel discussions on the Science of Shorelines, and the Policy and Managment of the Shoreline Master Program.  At Islandwood. Info: BI Land Trust at 206-842-1216.

NEW!! Peninsula Fruit Club Fall Fruit Tasting Workshop
October 17, 11:00am -3:00pm
At the Silverdale Community Center, 9729 Silverdale Way NW, Silverdale. The Club meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Bremerton Parks and Recreation Conference Room, 680 Lebo Blvd, Bremerton.  Info: peninsulafruitclub@comcast.net

NEW!! Peterson Farm and Estate Auction
October 23  10:00am
Tractors, Parts, Scrap, Antiques & Vintage Collectibles. Preview:  9:00 a.m. until auction.  At the Peterson Farm, 12450 Peterson Lane, Silverdale, WA. Buyer’s premiums: 10% all untitled items; $85 titled units.  Additions/deletions may be made without notice.  http://www.stokesauctioninc.com/offsite1/offsite1.htm

NEW!!  Annual Wild Mushroom Show
October 24, 10:00am – 5:00pm
At the Silverdale Community Center.  The Kitsap Peninsula Mycological Society generally meets at 7:00 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at the I.O.O.F Hall at 100 S. Dora, Bremerton. http://www.kitsapmushrooms.org/index.php

Short Course in Sustainable Livestock Production
October 23, 9:00am-4:30pm
On Puget Sound’s Key Peninsula. This one day intensive course will focus on sustainably producing meat from sheep and goats. On-farm and classroom presentations will cover: animal health and disease, breedpselection, facilities, breeding, marketing, processing, animal care, organic certification, pasture management, financial Planning and record keeping. Registration required. Info: http://smallfarms.wsu.edu/education/courses/livestock/smallruminant/ . Contact:  Doug Collins, dpcollins@wsu.edu, 253-445-4658

Kitsap Poultry Growers Cooperative
October 28, 6:30–9:00pm
Come hear Nate Lewis, WSDA Organic Certification Specialist. Topic: What is organic poultry & how is it certified? Poulsbo Fire Station, 911 NE Liberty Rd, Poulsbo

There are a number of educational opportunities for farmers in the next couple of months.  Both Focus on Farming (Snohomish Co.) and Washington Tilth (Pt. Townsend) offer a chance to let your hair hang down with farm friends and give you a chance to get some great information on specific topics of interest.  If you are more of a home body and still want to learn the University of Illinois is sponsoring a series of webinars on season extension and pest control.  It costs $30 for the series but if you are going to invest in hoop houses this maybe the best money you could spend this year on professional development!

“Get up and Grow!” 2010 Focus on Farming Conference
November 4
Join us for a day full of nationally known experts addressing leading agricultural topics. a day full of workshop sessions that will help your farm business succeed and tradeshow with exhibitors demonstrating some of the most innovative agricultural products and techniques. Tulalip Resort & Conf. Center, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, WA 98271.  http://www1.co.snohomish.wa.us/County_Services/Focus_on_Farming/Information/Conferences/

Tilth Producers of Washington Annual Conference
November 12-14
Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend, Washington.  Keynote Address: Chuck Hassebrook, Center for Rural Affairs, Shaping the Next Wave of Change in Agriculture, the Food System and Rural America.  Friday WSU Symposium: Organic Grains for Food, Feed and Malt. 28 Workshops on organic agriculture practices and issues Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.  Wine Tasting, Silent Auction, 50-Mile Dinner and Dance with Cort Armstrong and Jangle Bones Saturday night.  organic@tilthproducers.org

Webinar: Season Extension Pest Management Series
November 1-18
The Great Lakes Vegetable Working Group in partnership with the University of Illinois are organizing a Season Extension Pest Management webinar series. $30. For details with specific topics, speakers, and time see http://glvwg.ag.ohio-state.edu/projects.php#seasonextension.  Register at  http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/season_ext

I missed a week of the Kitsap Farm Calendar last week because things on the farm have been pretty busy. Butchered 15 roosters last week so things are quiet again and the other good news is that the cow calved and she and her bouncing baby boy bovine are doing well.  Time to make cheese!

Last night as I stepped out on the porch I was surprised to feel a nip in the air – so enjoy the last golden days of summer.  Soon the kids will be back in school and it will be time for cider pressing, pumpkin patches and fall festivals AND Tomato Taste-Offs.  Most of the local markets will be offering them in the coming month.  Take time to visit your local farmer’s market and taste what it is all about!

Kitsap Farm Calendar 8-27-10

Kitsap County Fair and Rodeo – August 25-29

Agricultural exhibits, events, and the Kitsap Junior Livestock Association Market Animal Auction (Saturday) at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds. Be sure and pick up your passport at the Kitsap WSU Extension booth (in the Cat Barn) and take a tour of Kitsap Agriculture

Bainbridge Island Farmer’s Market Tomato Taste-Off ~ September 4, 9:00am – 1:00pm

Home growers can enter the best of their home-growns in 3 categories: Cherry Tomatoes (bring 6 for judging), Salad Tomatoes (bring 3) and Slicing Tomatoes (bring 1). There’s a prestigious panel of judges and prizes for all first place winners. And, Buy Local Radio will be broadcasting live from the event!

Poulsbo Farmers Market 7th Annual Tomato Taste-Off ~ September 11, 9:00-10:30.

The Tomato Taste-Off (TTO) is open to backyard and professional growers – Cooking/Canning, Cherry, Slicing. The winners will be announced at 12:00 noon the same day. Prizes will be awarded.  Thanks to Valley Nursery for their sponsorship! Information at http://www.poulsbofarmersmarket.org/info/events/tomato-taste-off-2010.html

Bainbridge Island Farmer’s Market Busy Buzy Bees ~ September 11, 9:00am – 1:00pm

Charles Schaffer is back by popular demand to share his know-how, entertain with bee lore, and help local hives thrive.

NEW!! Port Orchard Farmers Market Great Tomato Taste-Off ~ September 11,  9:00 -  10:30 am

Three classes: slicing, paste/roma, and cherry.  Free, no limit to the number of entries.  Prizes will be awarded for each class winner with a grand prize (and bragging rights) to the overall champion.  For more information see the market website at www.pofarmersmarket.org or call 360-710-9085.

NEW!! Farm Hands Fall Afterschool Programs ~ September 14 – November 4

A Locally Grown Farm & Food Experience hosted at historic Suyematsu-Bentryn and Morales Farms on Bainbridge Island.  For more info: http://www.globalsourcenetwork.org/FFCE-farmhandsfall2010.htm.

NEW!! Preserve the Harvest: Under Pressure! ~ August 14 & 17

Conquer your fear! Learn how to safely pressure can low acid foods such as vegetables, seafood, and meats. We will be canning low-acid vegetables. The Saturday class will run from 2:00-5:00 p.m. The Tuesday class will run from 6:00-9:00 p.m. $30. Registration info: http://kitsap.wsu.edu  or shannon.harkness@wsu.edu or (360) 337-7157 

Bainbridge Island Farmer’s Market Poultry Pageant ~ September 24, 9:00am – 1:00pm

Don’t chicken out! This is pure Island fun with fowl bingo, prizes for the best-dressed chicken (we’re talking tiaras, not chestnut stuffing!), and other hi-jinks.

Kitsap Community Food Co-op Fall Fair ~ October 2, 10:00am – 4:00pm

An event for the entire family! Pumpkin carving, cider press demonstrations, live music in The Orchard, arts & crafts vendors, pony rides, eco-art for children provided by Kids LEAP, and enter to win 2 airline tickets and many other items donated by local artists and businesses! In Southworth at Rodstol Lane Farm.  http://rlf1916.com/events/KitsapCommunityFoodCoopFallFair

Outstanding in the Field Farm Dinner/Bainbridge Wine Weekend ~ October, 2, 3:00 – 8:00pm

As part of the Bainbridge Wine Weekend, the acclaimed “restaurant without walls”, with Hitchcock’s Chef Brendan McGill, will benefit the Kitsap Community and Agricultural Alliance.  $200.  Wine, five courses, and live music at Tani Creek Farm.  www.islandwineweekend.com

Are you in a pickle with too many cucumbers?  Check out this month’s WSU Small Farms Class on making pickles!  The bounty of summer and long warm evening bring out the child in all of us!  Run in the sprinkler, eat berries off the vine, bite into a ripe, red tomato, and take your children on a walk in the garden!  It won’t be long until school starts and the days get shorter.  Some folks call these the dog days of summer but I prefer to think of them as the best part of the year!

6^th Annual Western Washington Viticulture Conference ~ August 9 

On Vashon Island. Dr. Markus Keller, WSU will be presenting, as well as Barney Watson from Oregon and Steve Snyder of Hollywood Hill Vineyards and Winery.  Nina Milligan, Meet me in the Cellar, nina@meetmeinthecellar.org, 206-551-552 or www.meetmeinthecellar.org

KCAA Meeting – “Meat the Producers” ~ August 10, 6:30-8:00pm

Local 4-H and FFA Youth Producers will share their Market Animal project information in preparation for the upcoming Kitsap County Fair and Jr. Livestock Auction.  Come and see the future of farming in Kitsap.  At the Kingston Fire Station.

Preserve the Harvest: In A Pickle! ~ August 14 & 17

Learn how to make great crunchy pickles of all types! We will be making basic cucumber dill pickles, discuss fermenting foods, as well as making quick pickles. The Saturday class will run from 2:00-5:00 p.m. The Tuesday class will run from 6:00-9:00 p.m. $30. Registration info: http://kitsap.wsu.edu or shannon.harkness@wsu.edu or (360) 337-7157

NEW!! Children’s Gardening Class NW Discovery Kids ~ August 19, 10:30am

If you have kids, know someone with kids or are babysitting a kid…. spread the word! Another FREE program by the Master Gardeners of Kitsap County in collaboration with the County parks. At Blueberry Park, Bremerton, WA

Petersen Farm Day ~ August 22, 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Join us for the 1st annual public event at the Historic Petersen farm for tours, games, food, and fun.  Hosted by the Great Peninsula Conservancy (360) 373-3500 or www.greatpeninsula.org

Poulsbo Farmers Market 7th Annual Tomato Taste-Off ~ September 11, 9:00-10:30.

The Tomato Taste-Off (TTO) is open to backyard and professional growers – Cooking/Canning, Cherry, Slicing. The winners will be announced at 12:00 noon the same day. Prizes will be awarded.  Thanks to Valley Nursery for their sponsorship! Information at http://www.poulsbofarmersmarket.org/info/events/tomato-taste-off-2010.html

BIGFOOT… the Northwest’s Social Networking & Social Media Conference ~ June 4, 8:30am – 4:30pm
Learn about using social media and networking to promote your business.  Kitsap Conference Center at Bremerton Harborside.  http://www.kitsapeda.org/pdfs/BigfootFlyer_SM.pdf

Community Forum: Local Food Production and Distribution ~ June 8, 7:00 – 8:30pm
A free, community discussion about agriculture, sustainability and health in Kitsap County, led by a panel of local experts, co-sponsored by KRL and the Kitsap Sun. At the Norm Dicks Government Building, Bremerton, WA.  Read more about this in the Sun

NEW!! Kitsap Weed Identification Days ~ June 9 – 12
Come learn about how to identify Kitsap County’s worst NOXIOUS WEEDS. Want to know if you have a toxic weed in your yard? Bring it in to be identified. Questions: noxweed@gmail.com

•  June 9, 10am-1pm Kingston Library / 3pm-6pm Bainbridge Island Library
•  June 10, 10am-1pm Old Mill Park / 3pm-6pm Clear Creek
•  June 11, 10am-1pm Sylvan Way Library / 3pm-6pm Howe Farm Dog Park
• June 12, 9am-12pm Chico Creek Weed Pull & Identification

Town Hall Meeting & Reception with WSU President Elson S. Floyd  ~ June 10, 5:30 – 6:30pm 
Join Washington State University President Elson S. Floyd, Ph.D., for a Town Hall Meeting about the challenging times confronting our state, our businesses, and our communities.  A reception follows immediately.  Norm Dicks Building, 345 6th St. Bremerton https://secure.www.alumniconnections.com/olc/pub/WHG/event/showEventForm.jsp?form_id=8674

NEW!! Permaculture Design ~ June 10, 8:00 – 9:00pm
Principles of permaculture design for the backyard, farm or neighborhood.  How can we “retro-fit” the suburbs to become food-producing, sustainable communities?  At Real Foods Cafe, Bainbridge Island

Kitsap Community Food Co-Op Membership Drive
The busy summer market and fair season is upon us, and we are gearing up for all the events we usually attend. This year, we are treating our market and fair presence a little differently than in the past two years — we are offering memberships for sale at every event we attend! www.kitsapfoodcoop.org  Look for the Coop booth at:

• Poulsbo Farmers Market: June 12, 9 am – 1 pm (Continuing 2nd Saturdays through Sept)
• Bremerton Farmers Market: June 17, 4 – 7 pm (Continuing 3rd Thursdays through Sept
• Port Orchard Farmers Market: June 26, 9 am – 3 pm (Continuing 4th Saturdays through Sept)

NEW!! Permaculture Workshop: Mushrooms ~ June 19, 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Cultivating mushrooms in garden beds and in a shaded forest. Hands-on preparation of a variety of different mushroom cultivation systems. Take home a sample mushroom kit for growing your own oyster mushrooms in your house.  Info email Chuck at: cestin@gmail.com

NEW!! Farm Hands ~ June 28 – July 2, 9:30am – 3:00pm
Farm Hands is a seasonal, fresh and local afterschool and summer program for elementary age children. It offers young people experiences on working landscapes that cultivate farm stewardship and food citizenship. At Historic Suyematsu-Bentryn Farms, 8989 Day Rd. East, Bainbridge Island. http://www.globalsourcenetwork.org/FFCE-farmcamp2010.htm