USDA to host workshops

    PRESQUE ISLE — Farmers and forest landowners who are interested in learning about USDA and Central Aroostook Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) programs and services are invited to attend an informational workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 12, in Presque Isle.  Hosted by the Central Aroostook SWCD, the workshop will be held at the Northern Maine Community College, E. Perrin Edmunds Building, 33 Edgemont Drive, from 6-8 p.m.
    The meeting is designed to inform new or beginning farmers or agricultural/woodland owners who have had little or no participation in USDA or Conservation District programs. Speakers from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency and Rural Development, the St. John Aroostook Resource Conservation and Development Office and the Central Aroostook SWCD will provide an overview of available programs and services. They will also give participants information they need to access those same programs and services.
    The 2007 Agricultural Census conducted by USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service indicates that Aroostook County now has 1,246 farms operating 375,568 acres. This represents a gain of 162 farms or 15 percent from the 2002 Ag Census. The Census data also shows a 46 percent increase in female agricultural producers as well as an increase in the diversity of agricultural operators in Aroostook County.   
    If you plan to attend the Jan. 12 meeting and/or require special accommodations, please notify Benji Lynch at the Central Aroostook SWCD, 764-4153, ext. 3, by Jan. 10. 
    A meeting is also scheduled in Frenchville on Wednesday, Jan. 26, at the St. John Valley Technology Center, 431 U.S. Route 1 in Frenchville, from 6-8 p.m. This meeting will be hosted by the St. John Valley SWCD.  For more information contact Casey at 834-3311, ext. 3.
    Please contact the Central Aroostook SWCD if you have questions.
    USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.