Farm Forum set for Feb. 26

Delta Junction will host its annual Farm Forum Saturday, Feb. 26. The Delta FFA Chapter and the 4-H Club, DJ Saddletramps will act as masters of ceremony and assist with several aspects of the program.

The welcome address will be delivered by Deputy Commissioner Ed Fogels with the State of Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Meghan Lene, Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District, will discuss her phosphorus and potassium fertilizer trials. Todd Hayden of Kaya, Inc. will present information on Fort Greely’s biofuels proposal. Bob Bishop, export/logistics manager at Larson Farms, will deliver information regarding lab-tested disease-free seed potato exports. Gary Sonnichson will give a canola update. The Natural Resources Conservation District's Catherine Hadley will report on the Environmental Protection Agency's fuel storage regulations.

A potluck luncheon will begin around noon. Main meat dishes, scalloped potatoes, and rolls will be provided through donations.
Guests are asked to follow this schedule (according to last name) when choosing a dish to bring:
A-F = Desserts
G-L = Pasta or Rice
M-R = Salads
S-Z = Vegetable or Fruit

The Division of Agriculture will open the afternoon session with an update from Director Franci Havemeister. Local Fairbanks grocer Jeff Johnson will present on his business Homegrown Market. Kate Idzorek with UAF Cooperative Extension Service will talk about the flavor of barley flour.

Rex Wrigley with the Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District will present the district’s annual report; followed by the SDSWCD speech winner and cooperator of the year.

Ag-related businesses and special interest groups will provide information and answer questions during the forum.

The DJ Saddletramps will be hosting the second annual 4-H round-up/open house to be held at the high school. Contact Dani Markham at 322-8367.

The 2011 Delta Farm Forum is co-sponsored by UAF Cooperative Extension Service, Delta District, 895-4215, and the Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District, 895-6279.