WVU Organic Research Project

Project Update (02/20/02)

Gearing Up for Spring

• Preparations are underway for what looks to be an exciting growing season at the organic farm. Compost is being delivered, seed orders are placed, and some new and interesting projects are in the planning stages. Graduate student Liam Murray is conducting a composting experiment, cover crop trials are a possibility, and the planning of a new 4-acre apple experiment has everyone anticipating the return of spring. The market garden study will proceed with little change from last year's regime. We hope to improve on vertebrate pest control, in an effort to reduce any variability in the data collected. One change that is taking place in the field crop experiment is the replacement of brussel sprouts as the brassica crop. Forage Canola has been proposed as a suitable replacement that would be a more viable alternative.  

Field Day

• This year's Farm Field Day will be Thursday July 18th 2002 with times to be announced. If you attended last year's event I'm sure you'll agree it was an informative, and fun program. We'll be augmenting last year's success with an expanded itinerary. A lot was learned from last year's surprising success, and we encourage any suggestions or comments for this year's event. We will continue the displays in the main shop, condense the wagon tours for the increased comfort of participants, and plan a delicious and nutritious menu for the evening's dinner. Preregistration will be encouraged and mark your calendar, this year will be the best batch yet.  

Spring Lambing

• Almost all of the thirty Mario-Dorsett Horn ewes on the farm are pregnant, and being monitored to ensure a smooth lambing. As the end of March approaches, increased vigilance will be called for to ensure successful births. Speaking for everyone involved, excitement is building for the doubling of the organic flock. This has being an great learning experience, and we'll keep you updated on the progress.  

Buy our produce (In season) at the Mountain People's Market, the Saturday Market on High St., select local restaurants, and the Thursday ice cream sales at the back loading dock of the agriculture building.

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