By Liz Bawden, NODPA Board Co-President
The days have shortened and the dews heavier at night. And while the cows are enjoying the lush regrowth in the pastures, it takes me a minute to take it in that the season has turned to autumn. For it seems that we work non-stop over the summer only to find ourselves surprised that it is at its end! This has been a season of challenges from excess rain and drought to the higher operating costs. More organic neighbors have exited the industry, and more barns are dark and silent. In these uncertain days of tight margins, it takes a lot of careful planning, some creative solutions, and a bit of good fortune to guide us through the year.
We farmers do best when we can support each other, so I want to sincerely invite all of you to the 22nd Annual NODPA Field Days in Middlebury, Vermont on September 29th and 30th! As we look to what is next for organic dairy, we can share information and ideas on how to cope within our changing industry. We have some great presenters and the opportunity to tour local organic dairy farms and to learn from each other. You probably have the brochure in that pile of mail on your desk, and there is more information in this newsletter. We all need your ideas; I hope you can make it to Middlebury. Looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the Field Days!
Liz Bawden, NOPDA Co-President
Hammond NY
Phone: 315-324-6926
