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OUR ANNUAL TREE SALE IS BACK!!!! SEE THE TREE SALE PAGE FOR DETAILS. Please Note: The Office Will Be Closed in Observance of the Following Holidays in 2023 New Year's MONDAY, JANUARY 2 Martin Luther King Day MONDAY, JANUARY 16 Presidents' Day MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Memorial Day MONDAY, MAY 29 Juneteenth MONDAY, JUNE 19 4th of July TUESDAY, JULY 4 Labor Day MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Columbus Day MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 Veterans Day FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Thanksgiving THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Day after Thanksgiving FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Christmas MONDAY, DECEMBER 25 Click to set custom HTML
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS 2023 Meeting schedule: 4th Wednesday of every month 10:00 a.m. at the District office (unless otherwise noted) JANUARY 25 FEBRUARY 27 (MONDAY) MARCH 22 APRIL 26 MAY 24 JUNE 21 JULY 26 AUGUST 23 SEPTEMBER 27 OCTOBER 25 NOVEMBER 15 DECEMBER 20 
SWCD 'Municipal Partner of the Year' Award presentation to the Town of Skaneateles
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Sidewalks in Winter
Across the city, keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice is the responsibility of the property owner. The City urges all property owners to complete their civic responsibility and ensure the safety of fellow residents. By ordinance, anyone with a sidewalk parallel to any public street, shall clear and keep cleared any snow or ice which has accumulated on the surface. All city property owners are required to remove snow and ice from sidewalks on their property by 6:00 p.m. in the evening following the snow event. Residents should not shovel, sweep, throw, plow, or otherwise deposit snow or ice into the street, sidewalk, or park located within the city. In addition, the Syracuse Fire Department requests that residents help clear snow from around the more than 5,000 fire hydrants across the city. Instead of blowing or pushing snow near hydrants, SFD asks residents to take the extra time to clear a three-foot space around all sides of hydrants and to make a path from the road to the hydrant. The City is responsible for removing snow from the sidewalks and rights of way around City of Syracuse properties, in keeping with city ordinances. |
Winter Service Requests
Residents can report snow related concerns or make service requests to Cityline. Phone
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in the news
JANUARY 13, 2023
ALBANY, NY
Commissioner Ball Delivers State of Agriculture Address at 191st Annual New York State Agricultural Society Forum
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball on January 12 delivered the State of Agriculture Address at the 191st New York State Agricultural Society Annual Forum. The Forum, which is traditionally the oldest and largest meeting of its kind in the State, took place at the OnCenter in Syracuse, New York.
In keeping with this year’s Forum theme of “Disruption Eruption: Discovering New Opportunities in Agriculture,” the Commissioner spoke about the many groundbreaking initiatives designed to boost the agricultural industry and strengthen the food system that were outlined by Governor Kathy Hochul in her State of the State Address earlier this week. These include making the 20% Investment Tax Credit for farmers a reimbursable refund for five years; increasing institutional and agency buying of New York State food to 30% by 2028; investing $50 million to support ‘scratch’ cooking facilities that will facilitate the use of fresh New York State farm products in meal preparation for K-12 school children; strengthening the agricultural workforce pipeline through the creation of internships and apprenticeships and increased collaboration with key stakeholders; and more. Additionally, the Commissioner discussed opportunities for agriculture to further contribute to New York’s aggressive climate targets under the Climate Act, including an incentive-based approach for agriculture and forestry and a Cap-and-Invest program that offers flexibility to families, farms, and small businesses and helps to ensure sustainable, competitive farming.
Commissioner Ball said, “Our farmers are essential. Their work growing food for everyone and our work supporting this industry is essential. While we still have much work to do, I am incredibly proud of the way our agricultural community has risen to meet the challenges of the last few years with incredible strength, creativity, and innovation. For this reason, and despite all the change and uncertainty we face, I remain optimistic about the future.”
In his address, Commissioner Ball also highlighted the Department’s continued work alongside its many partners to ensure a strengthened food supply chain through several programs and initiatives, including the Nourish New York program; the Urban Farms and Community Gardens grant program; the Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program; the Farm-to-School initiative; the 30% NYS Initiative; and the New York Food for New York Families program. Finally, the Commissioner spoke about the Department’s ongoing activities to promote New York producers through the Taste NY and NYS Grown & Certified programs and to maintain its essential functions to protect public health and the food supply; ensure animal and plant health; and protect consumers and businesses.
A recording of the speech will be made available on the New York State Agricultural Society’s YouTube channel. A transcript of the Commissioner’s remarks as prepared can be found on the Department’s website at https://www.agriculture.ny.gov/2023-state-agriculture-address. Additionally, please find the two videos mentioned by the Commissioner during the speech on the Department’s YouTube channel, and the Department of Labor’s YouTube channel.
The New York State Agricultural Society Forum brought together representatives from all sectors of the agricultural industry to discuss topics that are crucial to the future of New York agriculture. This year’s forum focused on the many disruptive forces shaping the agri-food system and natural resource industry in small and seismic ways, and examined how disruption is creating new opportunities for agricultural industry stakeholders. The Forum also recognized and honored the contributions of industry stakeholders in eight award categories.
_________________________________
January 10, 2023
Reprinted from an article written by by: Carl Aldinger for New York Capitol News
Hochul: Schools, state agencies will source more from local farms in 2023
In her 2023 State of the State Address, NY Governor Kathy Hochul acknowledged the struggles currently facing small farms and laid out plans to invest in local farmers in the year ahead.
Hochul’s address touched on the rising average age of New York farmers, problems from the COVID-19 pandemic, immigration policies and their effect on farm workers, and high costs associated with farming at the local level.
To address this, Hochul’s 2023 address included plans to have the State buy more from local farms, invest in schools to cook fresh meals sourced from local farms, as well as work with farm owners to address worker shortages. She also laid out plans to promote urban agriculture and community green spaces.
Specifically, the plans said that more food grown in NY will be bought by State agencies and State-funded programs. Hochul plans to sign an executive order that directs State agencies to increase the amount of food they buy from local farmers by 30%.
The Department of Agriculture and Markets will also work with local farmers across the state to address worker shortages and find internships and apprenticeships, according to the book from the SOTS Address. The Ag Department will also target schools to bolster ag education, as well as “building a pipeline for the next generation of agricultural workforce, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color”.
To better connect immigrants with agricultural jobs, the State will also work with Cornell for “screening, language services, basic skill development, and placement.”
When it comes to schools, Hochul’s address said the State will provide $50 million over five years to grow “scratch” cooking equipment in schools. This will allow schools to cook fresh meals sourced from local farms rather than “rely on heat-and-serve methods for highly processed foods”, according to the document.
Hochul also said the State will work to expand urban agriculture. Specifically, three initiatives will help create community garden programs, train leaders for these programs, and test the soil in the sites of the future gardens. Again, NYS will work with Cornell University.
Finally, the State will give $10 million in grants to help create “farm markets, supermarkets, food cooperatives, and other similar retail food stores”. These grants will also aim to help support food infrastructure in underserved parts of NY.
ALBANY, NY
Commissioner Ball Delivers State of Agriculture Address at 191st Annual New York State Agricultural Society Forum
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball on January 12 delivered the State of Agriculture Address at the 191st New York State Agricultural Society Annual Forum. The Forum, which is traditionally the oldest and largest meeting of its kind in the State, took place at the OnCenter in Syracuse, New York.
In keeping with this year’s Forum theme of “Disruption Eruption: Discovering New Opportunities in Agriculture,” the Commissioner spoke about the many groundbreaking initiatives designed to boost the agricultural industry and strengthen the food system that were outlined by Governor Kathy Hochul in her State of the State Address earlier this week. These include making the 20% Investment Tax Credit for farmers a reimbursable refund for five years; increasing institutional and agency buying of New York State food to 30% by 2028; investing $50 million to support ‘scratch’ cooking facilities that will facilitate the use of fresh New York State farm products in meal preparation for K-12 school children; strengthening the agricultural workforce pipeline through the creation of internships and apprenticeships and increased collaboration with key stakeholders; and more. Additionally, the Commissioner discussed opportunities for agriculture to further contribute to New York’s aggressive climate targets under the Climate Act, including an incentive-based approach for agriculture and forestry and a Cap-and-Invest program that offers flexibility to families, farms, and small businesses and helps to ensure sustainable, competitive farming.
Commissioner Ball said, “Our farmers are essential. Their work growing food for everyone and our work supporting this industry is essential. While we still have much work to do, I am incredibly proud of the way our agricultural community has risen to meet the challenges of the last few years with incredible strength, creativity, and innovation. For this reason, and despite all the change and uncertainty we face, I remain optimistic about the future.”
In his address, Commissioner Ball also highlighted the Department’s continued work alongside its many partners to ensure a strengthened food supply chain through several programs and initiatives, including the Nourish New York program; the Urban Farms and Community Gardens grant program; the Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program; the Farm-to-School initiative; the 30% NYS Initiative; and the New York Food for New York Families program. Finally, the Commissioner spoke about the Department’s ongoing activities to promote New York producers through the Taste NY and NYS Grown & Certified programs and to maintain its essential functions to protect public health and the food supply; ensure animal and plant health; and protect consumers and businesses.
A recording of the speech will be made available on the New York State Agricultural Society’s YouTube channel. A transcript of the Commissioner’s remarks as prepared can be found on the Department’s website at https://www.agriculture.ny.gov/2023-state-agriculture-address. Additionally, please find the two videos mentioned by the Commissioner during the speech on the Department’s YouTube channel, and the Department of Labor’s YouTube channel.
The New York State Agricultural Society Forum brought together representatives from all sectors of the agricultural industry to discuss topics that are crucial to the future of New York agriculture. This year’s forum focused on the many disruptive forces shaping the agri-food system and natural resource industry in small and seismic ways, and examined how disruption is creating new opportunities for agricultural industry stakeholders. The Forum also recognized and honored the contributions of industry stakeholders in eight award categories.
_________________________________
January 10, 2023
Reprinted from an article written by by: Carl Aldinger for New York Capitol News
Hochul: Schools, state agencies will source more from local farms in 2023
In her 2023 State of the State Address, NY Governor Kathy Hochul acknowledged the struggles currently facing small farms and laid out plans to invest in local farmers in the year ahead.
Hochul’s address touched on the rising average age of New York farmers, problems from the COVID-19 pandemic, immigration policies and their effect on farm workers, and high costs associated with farming at the local level.
To address this, Hochul’s 2023 address included plans to have the State buy more from local farms, invest in schools to cook fresh meals sourced from local farms, as well as work with farm owners to address worker shortages. She also laid out plans to promote urban agriculture and community green spaces.
Specifically, the plans said that more food grown in NY will be bought by State agencies and State-funded programs. Hochul plans to sign an executive order that directs State agencies to increase the amount of food they buy from local farmers by 30%.
The Department of Agriculture and Markets will also work with local farmers across the state to address worker shortages and find internships and apprenticeships, according to the book from the SOTS Address. The Ag Department will also target schools to bolster ag education, as well as “building a pipeline for the next generation of agricultural workforce, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color”.
To better connect immigrants with agricultural jobs, the State will also work with Cornell for “screening, language services, basic skill development, and placement.”
When it comes to schools, Hochul’s address said the State will provide $50 million over five years to grow “scratch” cooking equipment in schools. This will allow schools to cook fresh meals sourced from local farms rather than “rely on heat-and-serve methods for highly processed foods”, according to the document.
Hochul also said the State will work to expand urban agriculture. Specifically, three initiatives will help create community garden programs, train leaders for these programs, and test the soil in the sites of the future gardens. Again, NYS will work with Cornell University.
Finally, the State will give $10 million in grants to help create “farm markets, supermarkets, food cooperatives, and other similar retail food stores”. These grants will also aim to help support food infrastructure in underserved parts of NY.
SUPPORT LOCAL VENDORS THROUGHOUT THE WINTER !!!
CNY MARKET WINTER SCHEDULES
Central New York Regional Market
2100 Park St., Syracuse.
7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, year round.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Winter Farmers Market at Baltimore Woods
4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. second Saturday of the month, November through April.
Information: 315-673-1350
Fayetteville Winter Farmers Market
The Shoppes at Towne Center, 306 Towne Drive, Fayetteville.
Noon to 3 p.m., second Thursday of each month, November through April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Cazenovia Farmers Market
Cazenovia American Legion Post 88, 26 Chenango St., Cazenovia.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. third Saturday of the month, November through April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Indoors Farmers Market
Madison Hall, 2nd floor, 100 E. Main St. and Route 20 in Morrisville
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. first Saturday of the month, November through April. (No January market.)
Information 315-684-3402. (Click for hyperlink)
Oneida County Public Market
At Union Station, 321 Main St., Utica.
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 21, Dec. 5 and Dec. 19 and second Saturday of the month, January to April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Hamilton Indoor Farmers Market at Parry's
100 Utica St., Hamilton.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., third Saturday of the month, November through April.
Information: 315-824-0002
Westmoreland Winter Farmers Market
Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department, 100 Station Road, Westmoreland.
9 a.m. to noon Nov. 14 and Dec. 12, first Saturday of the month, January through May.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Cooperstown Farmers Market
Pioneer Alley, just off Main Street, Cooperstown.
9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through December. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, January through April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
20 East Indoor Farmers Market
4157 Midstate Lane, Cazenovia.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., first Saturday of the month, November through April.
Special market from 2 to 6 p.m. Nov. 25.
Information or call McKenzie Houseman 315-655-3985.
CNY MARKET WINTER SCHEDULES
Central New York Regional Market
2100 Park St., Syracuse.
7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, year round.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Winter Farmers Market at Baltimore Woods
4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. second Saturday of the month, November through April.
Information: 315-673-1350
Fayetteville Winter Farmers Market
The Shoppes at Towne Center, 306 Towne Drive, Fayetteville.
Noon to 3 p.m., second Thursday of each month, November through April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Cazenovia Farmers Market
Cazenovia American Legion Post 88, 26 Chenango St., Cazenovia.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. third Saturday of the month, November through April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Indoors Farmers Market
Madison Hall, 2nd floor, 100 E. Main St. and Route 20 in Morrisville
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. first Saturday of the month, November through April. (No January market.)
Information 315-684-3402. (Click for hyperlink)
Oneida County Public Market
At Union Station, 321 Main St., Utica.
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 21, Dec. 5 and Dec. 19 and second Saturday of the month, January to April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Hamilton Indoor Farmers Market at Parry's
100 Utica St., Hamilton.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., third Saturday of the month, November through April.
Information: 315-824-0002
Westmoreland Winter Farmers Market
Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department, 100 Station Road, Westmoreland.
9 a.m. to noon Nov. 14 and Dec. 12, first Saturday of the month, January through May.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
Cooperstown Farmers Market
Pioneer Alley, just off Main Street, Cooperstown.
9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through December. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, January through April.
Information (Click for hyperlink)
20 East Indoor Farmers Market
4157 Midstate Lane, Cazenovia.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., first Saturday of the month, November through April.
Special market from 2 to 6 p.m. Nov. 25.
Information or call McKenzie Houseman 315-655-3985.
Onondaga County Soil & Water
Conservation District
6680 Onondaga Lake Parkway
LIverpool, NY 13088
(315) 457-0325
Fax: (315) 457-0410
MANY THANKS
TO OUR NEWSLETTER SPONSORS!!
TO OUR NEWSLETTER SPONSORS!!
TO OBSERVE AMERICAN HEART MONTH
- Take up a heart-healthy habit Staying active, eating healthy, and watching our weight are all important parts of maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Pick a new heart-healthy habit like jogging or substituting sodas with water and try to stick to it for a whole month.
- Educate yourself. Learn about the risk factors for heart disease, the ways you can prevent them, and the lifestyle choices that can help you stay healthy.
- Get your cholesterol tested. If you’re worried you might be at risk for heart disease, ask your doctor to perform a simple cholesterol test to let you know if you’re at risk and should make adjustments to your diet.
- Heart attacks can be silentOne in five heart attacks occurs without the person even knowing they had one.
- Heart attacks affect women differently. Women may experience different symptoms than men. These include pain in the back, arm, neck, or shoulder; nausea; fatigue; shortness of breath; and vomiting.
- Young women are at higher risk than men. Women under the age of 50 are twice as likely to die of a heart attack as men in the same age group.
- Another reason to hate Mondays. Heart attacks are more likely to occur on Monday mornings than other days of the week. Scientists attribute this to the disruption in our circadian rhythm over the weekend which leads to increased blood pressure and other changes to the nervous system.
- Diet soda raises heart attack risk. If you drink one or more diet sodas a day, your chances of having a heart attack are 43% higher than those who drink regular soda or none at all.
Find this and more on the NYS Ag & Market Website!!
DGA is the first registered Apprenticeship for farming in the United States. FIND AN OPTION THAT WORKS FOR YOU:
APPRENTICESHIP OR INTERNSHIP: Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship is a National Apprenticeship registered with the U.S. Department of Labor-Employment and Training Administration. This innovative program consists of full-time paid employment, comprehensive training in all aspects of running a managed grazing dairy operation, and the experience needed to transition to dairy farm business ownership.
DGA provides a career pathway for aspiring dairy farmers, managers, and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, with different levels of experience. The program is also ideal for established dairy graziers who want to develop a current employee as a manager or partner as well as for family members seeking a structure of support to prepare for farm transfer.
APPRENTICESHIP: At the core of the two-year Apprenticeship is 3700 hours of on-farm employment and training under an approved Mentor Dairy Grazier with opportunities for advancement upon completion. A comprehensive DGA Training Guidelines lays out the competencies that must be met in order to own and operate a managed-grazing dairy farm or business, providing a blueprint for the mentoring process.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED, or a composite score on the ACT of at least 18, or minimum Accuplacer test scores in math and reading.
- Must be not less than 18 years of age.
- Must be physically able to perform the work of the trade with reasonable accommodations and without hazard to themselves or others.
- Must have reliable transportation to and from work and school.
- Manage dairy cattle in a grazing system
- Manage milking operations
- Manage dairy cattle nutritional requirements
- Manage pastures for optimal production
- Manage natural resources in a grazing system
- Manage farm business operations to meet goals
Core courses have been developed specifically for Apprentices and are taught in an online format through Managed Grazing Innovation Center to enhance on-farm training and provide networking opportunities. The program incorporates 300 hours of related instruction:
- Courses in Dairy Cattle Nutrition, Feeds & Feeding, Milk Quality, Dairy Cattle Health & Wellness, Soil & Water Resources Management, Farm Financial Management, and Managed Grazing Systems for Dairy Cattle
- Peer Discussion Groups, Pasture Walks, Farming Conferences, and Networking Opportunities
- Holistic Management and Professional Development Training
Each Mentor Dairy Grazier-Apprentice pair is assigned a local Education Coordinator, who monitors the mentoring relationship and provides educational support and on-farm technical services. Apprentices not only gain skills, knowledge, and experience but also develop relationships with Apprentices and Mentors in their cohort as well as with other dairy farmers, agricultural professionals, and service providers in the local community.
Apprentices graduate to certified Journey Dairy Grazier status, receive additional support services as they advance in their career as Herd Manager/ Pasture Manager/ Feed or Hay Manager/ Heifer or Young Stock Manager. The long-term option is also available for graduates to transition into farm ownership, become Mentors themselves, and take on new Apprentices.
INTERNSHIPA shorter paid Internship allows Mentors and potential Apprentices to test a relationship before committing to a full Apprenticehship. It also provides students and others with an opportunity to learn about managed grazing dairy production on a working dairy farm.
- An Internship can start any time of year and ranges from 240 to 480 total hours .
- Interns work for and are mentored by approved Mentor Dairy Graziers anywhere in the DGA network.
- Interns must be at least 18 years old (unless entering through Youth Apprenticeship in high school).
- Courses taken during Internship may be credited toward Apprenticeship related instruction hours (as well as college credit if entering through a university).
- Up to 480 on-farm work hours and 12 weeks time during Internship may be applied toward an Apprenticeship.
- A DGA Education Coordinator provides guidance and oversight during the Internship.
Apply
To get started, first create a user account. Then choose the type of application you want to fill out (Mentor or Apprentice) and follow the steps to creating your online profile.
APPLY TODAY
Match
Apprentices choose their preferred areas of placement by zip code. Approved Mentors search the online database to find an Apprentice who will be a good match for their operation.
VIEW LOCATIONS
Train
Apprentices learn from those who know dairy farming best. Mentors prepare employees for management, partnerships, and eventual ownership. Both receive comprehensive support.
PREVIEW MATERIALS
Achieve
Whether you are an aspiring dairy grazier seeking to manage or own a farm or an established grazier looking for retirement and investment options, DGA can help you reach your goals.
READ CASE STUDIES (Click for hyperlink)
Department of Agriculture News reprinted from the USDA Website
USDA Announces Additional Assistance for Dairy Farmers
WASHINGTON, January 23, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the details of additional assistance for dairy producers, including a second round of payments through the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program (PMVAP) and a new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP). The update to PMVAP and the new ODMAP will enable USDA to better support small- and medium-sized dairy operations who weathered the pandemic and now face other challenges.
“The Biden-Harris administration continues to fulfill its commitments to fill gaps in pandemic assistance for producers. USDA is announcing a second set of payments of nearly $100 million to close-out the $350 million commitment under PMVAP through partnerships with dairy handlers and cooperatives to deliver the payments.,” said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. “USDA is also announcing new assistance targeted to small to medium size organic dairy farmers to help with anticipated marketing costs as they face a variety of challenges from weather to supply-chain challenges.”
Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program
PMVAP assists producers who received a lower value due to market abnormalities caused by the pandemic and ensuing Federal policies. As a result of the production cap increase, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will make PMVAP payments to eligible dairy farmers for fluid milk sales between 5 million and 9 million pounds from July through December 2020. This level of production was not eligible for payment under the first round of the PMVAP. Payment rates will be identical to the first round of payments, 80 percent of the revenue different per month, on fluid milk sales from 5 million to 9 million pounds from July through December 2020. USDA will again distribute monies through agreements with independent handlers and cooperatives, with reimbursement to handlers for allowed administrative costs. USDA will contact handlers with eligible producers to notify them of the opportunity to participate.
As part of the first round, PMVAP paid eligible dairy farmers on up to 5 million pounds of fluid milk sales from July through December 2020. The first round of payments distributed over $250 million in payments to over 25,000 eligible dairy farmers. These dairy farmers received the full allowable reimbursement on fluid milk sales up to 5 million pounds.
More information about the PMVAP production cap increase is available at www.ams.usda.gov/pmvap.
Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program
The new ODMAP, to be administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), is intended to help smaller organic dairy farms that have faced a unique set of challenges and higher costs over the past several years that have been compounded by the ongoing pandemic and drought conditions across the country. Many small organic dairy operations are now struggling to stay in business and FSA plans to provide payments to cover a portion of their estimated marketing costs for 2023. Final spending will depend on enrollment and each producers projected production, but ODMAP has been allocated up to $100 million.
The assistance provided by ODMAP will be provided through unused Commodity Credit Corporation funds remaining from earlier pandemic assistance programs. The assistance will help eligible organic dairy producers with up to 75 percent of their future projected marketing costs in 2023, based on national estimates of marketing costs. This assistance will be provided through a streamlined application process based on a national per hundredweight payment. The payments will be capped at the first five million pounds of anticipated production, in alignment with preexisting dairy programs that target assistance to those smaller dairies that are most vulnerable to marketing challenges. This program is still in development.
Details about the Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program will be available and updated at www.farmers.gov as more details are released in a Notice of Funds Availability later this year.
USDA Announces Additional Assistance for Dairy Farmers
WASHINGTON, January 23, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the details of additional assistance for dairy producers, including a second round of payments through the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program (PMVAP) and a new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP). The update to PMVAP and the new ODMAP will enable USDA to better support small- and medium-sized dairy operations who weathered the pandemic and now face other challenges.
“The Biden-Harris administration continues to fulfill its commitments to fill gaps in pandemic assistance for producers. USDA is announcing a second set of payments of nearly $100 million to close-out the $350 million commitment under PMVAP through partnerships with dairy handlers and cooperatives to deliver the payments.,” said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. “USDA is also announcing new assistance targeted to small to medium size organic dairy farmers to help with anticipated marketing costs as they face a variety of challenges from weather to supply-chain challenges.”
Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program
PMVAP assists producers who received a lower value due to market abnormalities caused by the pandemic and ensuing Federal policies. As a result of the production cap increase, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will make PMVAP payments to eligible dairy farmers for fluid milk sales between 5 million and 9 million pounds from July through December 2020. This level of production was not eligible for payment under the first round of the PMVAP. Payment rates will be identical to the first round of payments, 80 percent of the revenue different per month, on fluid milk sales from 5 million to 9 million pounds from July through December 2020. USDA will again distribute monies through agreements with independent handlers and cooperatives, with reimbursement to handlers for allowed administrative costs. USDA will contact handlers with eligible producers to notify them of the opportunity to participate.
As part of the first round, PMVAP paid eligible dairy farmers on up to 5 million pounds of fluid milk sales from July through December 2020. The first round of payments distributed over $250 million in payments to over 25,000 eligible dairy farmers. These dairy farmers received the full allowable reimbursement on fluid milk sales up to 5 million pounds.
More information about the PMVAP production cap increase is available at www.ams.usda.gov/pmvap.
Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program
The new ODMAP, to be administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), is intended to help smaller organic dairy farms that have faced a unique set of challenges and higher costs over the past several years that have been compounded by the ongoing pandemic and drought conditions across the country. Many small organic dairy operations are now struggling to stay in business and FSA plans to provide payments to cover a portion of their estimated marketing costs for 2023. Final spending will depend on enrollment and each producers projected production, but ODMAP has been allocated up to $100 million.
The assistance provided by ODMAP will be provided through unused Commodity Credit Corporation funds remaining from earlier pandemic assistance programs. The assistance will help eligible organic dairy producers with up to 75 percent of their future projected marketing costs in 2023, based on national estimates of marketing costs. This assistance will be provided through a streamlined application process based on a national per hundredweight payment. The payments will be capped at the first five million pounds of anticipated production, in alignment with preexisting dairy programs that target assistance to those smaller dairies that are most vulnerable to marketing challenges. This program is still in development.
Details about the Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program will be available and updated at www.farmers.gov as more details are released in a Notice of Funds Availability later this year.
DID YOU KNOW?
Any person who receives, purchases, handles, or sells fluid cows’ milk needs a milk dealer's license. The law defines a person as any individual, firm, corporation, partnership, limited partnership, association, limited liability company, cooperative cooperation, or unincorporated cooperative association.
A license is valid for one year. The initial license fee is $100. For license renewals, the fee is adjusted, if necessary, depending on the volume of milk handled the preceding year. The $100 fee covers a dealer who handles up to 4,000 pounds per day during the highest month of the year. For each additional 4,000 pounds of milk handled per day; the license fee increases $40 up to a maximum of $7,500.
Any milk used to make manufactured products is excluded from license fee computation. If all the milk is used in manufacturing, the license fee is a flat $100.
New milk dealer license applications and license renewals are reviewed and evaluated in terms of financial responsibility, character, and ability or performance of the applicant in conducting the proposed business and providing service to the public. Dairy markets and milk dealer performance are monitored to determine adequacy of service by dealers and the vitality of market competition. Changes in the organization and structure of the dairy industry and in the business operations of licensees require continuing review and updating of licensing procedures.
Any person who receives, purchases, handles, or sells fluid cows’ milk needs a milk dealer's license. The law defines a person as any individual, firm, corporation, partnership, limited partnership, association, limited liability company, cooperative cooperation, or unincorporated cooperative association.
A license is valid for one year. The initial license fee is $100. For license renewals, the fee is adjusted, if necessary, depending on the volume of milk handled the preceding year. The $100 fee covers a dealer who handles up to 4,000 pounds per day during the highest month of the year. For each additional 4,000 pounds of milk handled per day; the license fee increases $40 up to a maximum of $7,500.
Any milk used to make manufactured products is excluded from license fee computation. If all the milk is used in manufacturing, the license fee is a flat $100.
New milk dealer license applications and license renewals are reviewed and evaluated in terms of financial responsibility, character, and ability or performance of the applicant in conducting the proposed business and providing service to the public. Dairy markets and milk dealer performance are monitored to determine adequacy of service by dealers and the vitality of market competition. Changes in the organization and structure of the dairy industry and in the business operations of licensees require continuing review and updating of licensing procedures.
STORMWATER SUMMARY FOR 2022
By Conor Larkin, Conservation District Technician
Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District has carried out another year of implementing effective stormwater management practices. Stormwater outfall inspections, construction site SWPPP inspections, and conservation technical assistance visits are provided to municipalities and homeowners on a regular basis. In doing so, these efforts help to promote safe, healthy water quality and a stable ecological environment.
The District has assisted with stormwater outfall inspections through the Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Program for several years, and this past year over 400 inspections have been completed throughout Onondaga County. In addition to tracking discharges within a drainage system, the District has monitored the physical condition of each outfall and contacted responsible parties to ensure proper maintenance of these structures. Records of each outfall were kept, and code enforcement or municipal engineers were notified if the structure needed improvement.
The District continues to provide construction site Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) inspections for the Syracuse Metropolitan Digester Phase II Improvement Project. The scope of this work involves three major components: Digester Phase II Improvements, Thickener Rehabilitation Project, and the ESCO (Energy Saving) Project. The soil disturbance involved with these three components and the erosion and sediment control measures continue to be monitored. This monitoring process is set in place to prevent sediment-laden water from discharging into neighboring waterbodies. The collaboration between the District and the construction crews involved in this project has resulted in minimal discharges so far, along with increasing vegetative growth and soil stabilization. A total of 12 monthly inspections were carried out in 2022 and observations were reported to project oversight. All the erosion and sediment control techniques were observed to be very effective in preventing soil mobilization. The practices included silt fence, straw bale inlet protection, and proper seeding and mulching.
As construction at the Syracuse Metropolitan Wastewater Treatment Plant continues, so will SWPPP inspections. Stormwater outfalls will continue to be mapped and inspected as well. The implementation of these stormwater management practices, and erosion and sediment control techniques will contribute to a healthier future and a safer environment for Onondaga County.
By Conor Larkin, Conservation District Technician
Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District has carried out another year of implementing effective stormwater management practices. Stormwater outfall inspections, construction site SWPPP inspections, and conservation technical assistance visits are provided to municipalities and homeowners on a regular basis. In doing so, these efforts help to promote safe, healthy water quality and a stable ecological environment.
The District has assisted with stormwater outfall inspections through the Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Program for several years, and this past year over 400 inspections have been completed throughout Onondaga County. In addition to tracking discharges within a drainage system, the District has monitored the physical condition of each outfall and contacted responsible parties to ensure proper maintenance of these structures. Records of each outfall were kept, and code enforcement or municipal engineers were notified if the structure needed improvement.
The District continues to provide construction site Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) inspections for the Syracuse Metropolitan Digester Phase II Improvement Project. The scope of this work involves three major components: Digester Phase II Improvements, Thickener Rehabilitation Project, and the ESCO (Energy Saving) Project. The soil disturbance involved with these three components and the erosion and sediment control measures continue to be monitored. This monitoring process is set in place to prevent sediment-laden water from discharging into neighboring waterbodies. The collaboration between the District and the construction crews involved in this project has resulted in minimal discharges so far, along with increasing vegetative growth and soil stabilization. A total of 12 monthly inspections were carried out in 2022 and observations were reported to project oversight. All the erosion and sediment control techniques were observed to be very effective in preventing soil mobilization. The practices included silt fence, straw bale inlet protection, and proper seeding and mulching.
As construction at the Syracuse Metropolitan Wastewater Treatment Plant continues, so will SWPPP inspections. Stormwater outfalls will continue to be mapped and inspected as well. The implementation of these stormwater management practices, and erosion and sediment control techniques will contribute to a healthier future and a safer environment for Onondaga County.
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A well maintained, reinforced concrete pipe on Onondaga Community College campus- Inspected: 1/5/22
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Catch basin protected by straw bales, after a major rain event at the Metro WWTP - Inspected:3/7/22
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Same catch basin, without protection, after partial project completion at the Metro WWTP - Inspected:9/1/22
WE NEED YOU, SYRACUSE!
We’re looking for YOUR help to grow the Syracuse Community Forest in 1 of 2 ways:
1. Receive a FREE tree planted in front of your house in the city of Syracuse, N.Y. Homeowners, email sharris@syr.gov, to see if you qualify.
2. Volunteer at Syracuse City community tree planting events, watch for upcoming posts for event dates and times.
We’re looking for YOUR help to grow the Syracuse Community Forest in 1 of 2 ways:
1. Receive a FREE tree planted in front of your house in the city of Syracuse, N.Y. Homeowners, email sharris@syr.gov, to see if you qualify.
2. Volunteer at Syracuse City community tree planting events, watch for upcoming posts for event dates and times.
From the City of Syracuse
Mayor Walsh Announces Release of 2023 City Services Guide.
Mayor Walsh Announces Release of 2023 City Services Guide Published on December 29, 2022
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh announced the 2023 City Services Guide is hitting mailboxes as the New Year approaches. The tri-fold pamphlet is created by the Department of Public Works (DPW) and is used by residents all year to find need-to-know maintenance guidelines, city service dates and contact information.
“We encourage residents to keep this guide handy year-round,” said Mayor Walsh. “It’s an easy way for them to have the information needed to maintain their properties and receive essential services from the City.”
The quick reference guide outlines services provided by the City and resident responsibilities for trash and recycling disposal, sidewalk clearing and maintenance, and sewer service. The guide includes a map of city quadrants for DPW pickups and a full schedule for yard waste and leaf pickups in 2023.
Construction debris set-out dates in 2023 will occur in the months of May and September. Instructions on what the City will accept and how materials must be consolidated in order to be properly discarded are also included.
Mayor Walsh Announces Release of 2023 City Services Guide.
Mayor Walsh Announces Release of 2023 City Services Guide Published on December 29, 2022
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh announced the 2023 City Services Guide is hitting mailboxes as the New Year approaches. The tri-fold pamphlet is created by the Department of Public Works (DPW) and is used by residents all year to find need-to-know maintenance guidelines, city service dates and contact information.
“We encourage residents to keep this guide handy year-round,” said Mayor Walsh. “It’s an easy way for them to have the information needed to maintain their properties and receive essential services from the City.”
The quick reference guide outlines services provided by the City and resident responsibilities for trash and recycling disposal, sidewalk clearing and maintenance, and sewer service. The guide includes a map of city quadrants for DPW pickups and a full schedule for yard waste and leaf pickups in 2023.
Construction debris set-out dates in 2023 will occur in the months of May and September. Instructions on what the City will accept and how materials must be consolidated in order to be properly discarded are also included.
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This video highlights some of the work that FLLOWPA partners accomplish throughout the Finger Lakes - Lake Ontario basin utilizing funding from the NYS Environmental Protection Fund, stakeholder contributions, and other sources. Visit www.fllowpa.org for more information.
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In Case of EmergencyIn case assistance is needed at an agricultural spill, and it's after office hours (4:30 p.m.) you can call Mark Burger directly at 315-415-5057.
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TO ACCESS OUR ONLINE PARTNERS CLICK ON LINKS BELOW Snow and Ice Control Best Management Practicessnow_and_ice_control_best_management_practices.pdf Boat Decontamination boat_decontamination.pdf Skaneateles Lake Watershed SKANLAKEINFO.ORG ONONDAGA ENVIRONMENTAL INSTITUTE www.oei2.org/ Kettle Lakes Watershed News: www.uppersusquehanna.org/usc/kettle-lakes/ Sharing the Road with Slow Moving Vehicles - What you need to know. http://www.safeny.ny.gov/media/SMV-broc4-09.pdf Water Deflectors - Managing Surface Water & Reducing Erosion on Unpaved Roads water_diversion.pdf What's the Poop on Manure Lagoons? To watch the interview, click belowhttp://www.newyorkupstate.com/news/2017/06/whats_the_poop_on_manure_lagoons_see_how_they_work_why_farmers_need_them_video.html Information on Hemlock Wooly Adelgid https://blogs.cornell.edu/nyshemlockinitiative/ https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7250.html https://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/lands_forests_pdf/hwafactsheet.pdf http://nyis.info/invasive_species/hemlock-woolly-adelgid/ |
Our mission is to promote excellence in the wise use of our rural/urban natural resources.
Our vision is to live in a society in which future generations will have natural resources necessary to sustain and enrich their quality of life.
The Onondaga County Soil & Water Conservation District prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status.