WFSC/Avalanche December 09 News 11/26/09
After a cold , wet October, we have been spared from winter so far here in the West Fork valley. We had deer hunters camping recently.

 Your officer’s had our property recently surveyed with some interesting results. The lower end line is roughly 100feet south of the mowed area. The side toward the river is roughly 20 feet toward the river and runs true North until it reaches the river, then follows the centerline of the river until the Avalanche Bridge. The line runs only 50 feet directly behind the cabin nearest the river. We plan to develop these areas.

 We plan to do some tile work in the bathroom of the cabin near the road.

Our website is in the process of getting reworked. Hopefully you will see changes soon.

I ordered dispensers for toilet paper and toweling so that every toilet will have 2 jumbo rolls and both baths will have 2 towel dispensers.

We are still working on new stream work on our property along with new camping shelters. We are working on purchasing rip rap from the Avalanche quarry. The river down from Avalanche Bridge has been permitted for repair on President Bob Widner’s side. We have to apply for a permit for WFSC side of the river.

We may get a chance to remodel the bath rooms this winter. Progress is in the works and hope is that our membership appreciates it.

Greatest thoughts of prosperity for you and your family,

 Bryan”Trapper” Voldahl

Avalanche,Wi Secretary, WFSC

Coulee Region Chapter of Trout Unlimited presents:

Screening of the documentary film Trout Grass (written and narrated by David James Duncan)
Followed by a presentation on Bamboo Rod Building by Jim Sabota
Viterbo University, Reinhart Center Room 107
Wednesday, December 16, 7:00pm

“Unveiling the magic of international camaraderie, fine craftsmanship and flowing water, Trout Grass tracks the 10,000-mile journey of bamboo around the world. From a lush forest in China's Guangdong Province to a rustic workshop in Montana this film follows the transition of bamboo from a living plant to a finished fly rod. As a renowned rod maker treks to the source of his inspiration and a craftsman half-way around the world feels the "spirit of the bamboo world" we find what it takes to convert a piece of grass into a six-sided baton ready to conduct an orchestra of trout and water.” –David James Duncan

Join us for social hour/dinner at Houghton’s (1002 Jackson Street) at 6pm.

 

For directions to the Viterbo University campus and the Reinhart Center, go to http://www.viterbo.edu/maps.aspx

Hello,

 

In just one week students will be serving up their school lunch recipes at the Harvest Challenge Tasting and Reception.

 

The Harvest Challenge is a competition and unique event that brings students, teachers, farmers and local chefs together to learn about the National School Lunch Program and to work creatively to plan healthier and tastier school lunches.

 

Tickets are $10/individual, $3/student (under 18). Proceeds will benefit the Vernon Area Farm to School program.

 

EVENT:

December 11, 6-8 PM at the Viroqua High School Cafeteria

 

Taste the students dishes and vote for your favorite!

 

Come listen to our speakers : Dr. Knaedle Viroqua Superintendent, Senator Dan Kapanke, Rufus Hauke of Keewaydin Organics and Marilyn Hurt school lunch historian.

 

Be sure to check out our silent auction, we have great prizes from Organic Valley, area restaurants, area farmers and more!

 

Meet the students from Westby, Viroqua, Youth Initiative and Laurel High Schools and their chef mentors from Driftless Cafe, Organic Valley and Di Sciascio's Restaurant.

 

Volunteers Needed! If you can help with the event any time from 3:30-8:30 please call Nicole at VSN 608-637-3615!

 

For tickets please call Bjorn Bergman at 608-637-1540 or email: berbjo@viroqua.k12.wi.us

 

Thanks for your support of Farm to School and the VSN Food and Farm Initiative. See you there!


Nicole Penick
Farm and Food Initiative Cord.
Valley Stewardship Network
124 1/2 South Main St.
Viroqua WI 54665
www.kickapoovsn.org

Dear friends of the Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club
 
Due to the winter storm forecast we are CANCELLING the Vernon Crawford
Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club meeting scheduled for this Wednesday Dec.
9, 2009

We hope to reschedule the presentation by Richard de Wilde of Harmony
Valley Farm for our NEXT meeting which is Wed. Jan. 13, 2010. Please
watch for additional information about the January meeting or visit
http://www.veda-wi.org/inventors_club.html
http://www.veda-wi.org/inventors_club.html>; or contact Sue Noble at
637-5396 or Laura Brown 608-326-0223. Thanks for your understanding and
our apologies for any inconvenience.

Since you'll likely have a bit of free time during the blizzard, please
take a moment to fill out our short Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club
Survey by Friday December 11!
http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB229XT9LPE5T Your responses will
be kept confidential. The compiled information helps us plan club
meetings for next year and know if we're really making a difference.
Thank you!!

Best wishes to you all for a joyful and safe holiday season. We'll see
you for our next meeting on Wed. Jan 13 Western Technical College at 220
South Main Street, Viroqua at 6:00 pm!

Best- Laura and Sue

Farm to School Fundraiser
From: Valley Stewardship Network <vsn@frontiernet.net>
vsn@frontiernet.net To: Valley Stewardship Network <vsn@frontiernet.net>
Date: Tue, Dec 8, 2009 1:40 pm

 

Dear VSN Members,

 

The Vernon Area Farm to School Steering Committee is pleased to be teaming up with Kickapoo Coffee

to provide an alternative school fundraising option. This unique fundraiser features a variety of

Kickapoo Coffee’s handcrafted, organic, fair trade coffees that are roasted in Viroqua, WI. It is a

delicious and convenient way to support a local business, to raise funds for school programs, and to take

care of your holiday shopping!

 

This fundraiser will benefit the Vernon Area Farm to School Program – an initiative that aims to

increase consumption of fresh, local foods at our schools through classroom tastings, classroom nutrition

lessons, monthly food themes, and farmer visits.

 

Kickapoo Coffee is driven by a twin mission: to deliver the highest quality artisanal coffee, and to support small-scale coffee farmers who embrace organic and sustainable methods of growing.

 

All coffee beans are sourced from fair trade cooperatives that guarantee prices that support the rural communities that farm them. To learn more about Kickapoo Coffee, please visit their website: www.kickapoocoffee.com

 

Available Whole Bean Coffees:

All whole bean coffees come in 12 oz. specialty Kickapoo Coffee cans that make great gifs for the

holidays. Cost: $12/can when purchasing 1-2 cans, $10/can when purchasing 3 or more cans.

 

Please make checks payable to: “Vernon Area F2S Program C/O Viroqua Area Schools”

 

**Please note: All coffees are only available in whole bean form. A coffee grinder is necessary to make

coffee from whole beans.

 

• Organic Winter Solstice Blend - Whole Bean 12 oz. can

A cozy coffee for a winter's day. The bittersweet chocolate tones of this medium dark roast envelope

a core of candied cherry sweetness. Perfect for lingering conversations with family and friends this

holiday season.

 

• Organic Driftless Dark Blend - Whole Bean 12 oz. can

This is the signature Kickapoo Coffee blend. It is decadent, smooth and rich with intense bittersweet

chocolate on the finish.

 

• Organic French Roast - Whole Bean 12 oz. can

Our darkest roast with a smooth, full body, light acidity, and loads of dark chocolate overtones.

 

• Organic Guatemala - Whole Bean 12 oz. can

Deliciously fragrant and bright with lively notes of citrus, maple syrup and milk chocolate.

 

• Organic Natural Process Ethiopian - Whole Bean 12 oz. can

Intensely fruity aromatics give way to a big, lush body, loads of sweetness, and silky smooth finish.

 

• Organic Decaf Breakfast Blend - Whole Bean 12 oz. can

A blend of dark and medium roasts offering an amazing balance and depth.

 

To Place your order please call or email Nicole at the VSN office. 608-637-3615 or email vsnnicole@gmail.com

All orders & checks are due by Friday December 11th. Payments accepted at the Harvest Challenge Event.

 

Nicole Penick
Farm and Food Initiative Cord.
Valley Stewardship Network
124 1/2 South Main St.
Viroqua WI 54665
www.kickapoovsn.org

608-637-3615
vsnnicole@gmail.com

Linking farmers and community for sustainability.

 

 

Dear Members,

This Friday students will be serving up their school lunch recipes at the Harvest Challenge Tasting and Reception. One of the tastiest events of the season, you won't want to miss ! This is a family event!

 

Tickets are $10/individual, $3/student (under 18). Proceeds will benefit the Vernon Area Farm to School program.
Tickets will be available at the door!

 

 Friday from 6-8 PM at the Viroqua High School Cafeteria

 

Taste the students’ dishes and vote for your favorite!

 

Come listen to our speakers : Dr. Knaedle Viroqua Superintendent, Senator Dan Kapanke, Rufus Hauke of Keewaydin Organics and Marilyn Hurt school lunch historian. Senator Dan Kapanke will be speaking and Rep. Lee Nerrison will be attending!

 

Be sure to check out our silent auction, we have great prizes from Organic Valley, area restaurants, area farmers and more!

 

Meet the students from Westby, Viroqua, Youth Initiative and Laurel High Schools and their chef mentors from Driftless Cafe, Organic Valley and Di Sciascio's Restaurant.

 

Volunteers Needed! If you can help with the event in 2 hour shifts from 3:30-8:30 please call Nicole at VSN 608-637-3615!

 

For tickets please call Bjorn Bergman at 608-637-1540 or email: berbjo@viroqua.k12.wi.us
You can also purchase tickets at the door!

 

Thanks for your support of Farm to School and the VSN Food and Farm Initiative. See you there!


Nicole Penick
Farm and Food Initiative Cord.
Valley Stewardship Network
124 1/2 South Main St.
Viroqua WI 54665
www.kickapoovsn.org

608-637-3615
vsnnicole@gmail.com

Please take some time to contact legislators in the Groundwater Work Group and encourage them to Protect Our Buried Treasure.
  
River Alliance and a coalition of conservation organizations have been working together to make sure Wisconsin’s groundwater laws adequately protect drinking water supplies as well as the lakes, rivers and wetlands dependent upon groundwater sources. A group of legislators has been learning about the shortcomings of our current laws, hearing from scientists, DNR and our coalition about how to improve those laws, and are ready to start drafting new legislation. Their last meeting will be this Thursday, January 7 at 2:00 p.m., and they need to hear from you now. Please take a moment to contact members of the legislature’s Groundwater Work Group to tell them this state needs a strong groundwater law.

Members of the Groundwater Work Group are:
Senator Mark Miller, sen.miller@legis.wisconsin.gov
Senator Neal Kedzie, sen.kedzie@legis.wisconsin.gov
Representative Spencer Black, rep.black@legis.wisconsin.gov
Representative Cory Mason, rep.mason@legis.wisconsin.gov
Representative Fred Clark, rep.clark@legis.wisconsin.gov
Representative Scott Gunderson, rep.gunderson@legis.wisconsin.gov
Representative Louis Molepske, rep.molepske@legis.wisconsin.gov

A simple message to relay:

As one of seven legislators currently working on legislation to protect groundwater for Wisconsin, you have a unique opportunity to shape a law that will affect all our natural resources for future generations. Please protect Wisconsin's interconnected groundwater, lakes, rivers and wetlands by supporting a strong groundwater law.

A strong groundwater law:
1. Reflects in statute the reality that groundwater and surface waters are connected.
2. Ties the approval of new wells to a science-based evaluation of their
environmental consequences on lakes, streams and wetlands;
3. Provides a means to adjust groundwater pumping in areas with
groundwater shortages; and
4. Ensures water users employ conservation and efficiency measures to
avoid wasting water resources.

Sincerely,

Emily Joy Rozeske
Office Manager
Valley Stewardship Network
124 1/2 S. Main Street
Viroqua, Wisconsin 54665

(608) 637-3615
www.kickapoovsn.org

Join others concerned with stewardship of the Kickapoo Watershed
Become a member of the Valley Stewardship Network for all those who live, work and play in the Valley

Attention Creative Thinkers & Resource Providers
************************************************************** ************
The next Vernon Crawford Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club meeting

will be held on
Wednesday, January 13th
Western Technical College, 220 South Main Street, Viroqua
Networking starts at 5:30, the program begins at 6:00 pm

The topic will be “Building a Business on Your Values” with presenter and successful local entrepreneur Richard de Wilde, owner of Harmony Valley Farm, one of the largest Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farms in Vernon County and a pioneer in the organic farming movement.

Plan to attend the Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club for a dynamic evening of networking with lots of creative people and plenty of resources to help you start or grow your business. Everyone is welcome and meetings are free and open to the public. The Vernon Crawford Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club is supported by Vernon Economic Development Association and the Crawford County UW Extension Program in Economic Development. For more information about this and other I&E Club meetings, check out http://www.veda-wi.org/ or http://crawford.uwex.edu/cnred/index.html or contact us at the numbers below.

Hope to see you there!
Sue & Laura

Susan Noble
Executive Director, Vernon Economic Development Association
402 Courthouse Square, Banta Building Suite 207, Viroqua, WI 54665
608.637.5396
snoble@veda-wi.org

Attention, Inventors, Entrepreneurs, and Existing Business Owners
************************************************************** ************
Prairie du Chien -McGregor- Marquette Area
Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club meeting

Wednesday February 3rd, 2010
Prairie du Chien City Hall 214 East Blackhawk Ave
Networking starts at 5:30 pm. Program begins at 6:00 pm.

Meetings are held every first Wednesday of the month.

This month's topic will be “Quest Industrial Robotics - Integrating Innovation and Industry"” with Quest Industrial Founder Don Wickstrom
http://www.questindustrial.com/

Local food initiative receives largest state grant

By Gregg Hoffmann

The area Local Food Initiative received a big boost Tuesday, Jan. 19, when state Secretary of Agriculture Rod Nilsestuen announced it has received a $40,000 grant, the largest of nine give to initiatives around the state.

Nilsestuen made the announcement while cutting the ribbon at Premier Meats, a new meat processing company between Viroqua and Westby.

The grant will impact Vernon, Crawford, Richland, Monroe and La Crosse counties. VEDA will coordinate the effort designed to increase the purchase of local food by providing coordination through a multi-stakeholder cooperative to be used by producers, processors and institutions in western Wisconsin.

LFI will increase capacity to access markets by establishing critical infrastructure to overcome production, processing, marketing and distribution hurdles currently faced by local food producers. Some of that infrastructure will be based in the former NCR building in Viroqua, now owned by VEDA.

The facility will house a food processing and distribution center. Local producers such as Keewaydin Organics, Harvest Moon Farms, Z&E Farming and Harmony Valley Farm, among others, will use the facility.

It is hoped that the center could be ready by this May. Potential markets for food coming from the center include Western Technical College, UW-La Crosse, Vernon Memorial Hospital, Three Rivers Waldorf School, Viroqua Area Schools, Pleasant Ridge Waldorf School and other institutions, which could purchase more local food.

“No one turns out better produce, dairy, meat and other foods than our Wisconsin producers,” Nilsestuen said at the ribbon cutting ceremony. “We’re here today to support local efforts to keep high quality local food in Wisconsin communities. You’re providing top quality, fresh food to families, supporting farmers and growing your own local economy and the state economy.”

Nilsestuen praised VEDA and other partners in the development of the LFI. “Community, local, quality, networks are the key words,” Nilsestuen said. “You’e done a great job of putting this together.”

Eight other initiatives around the state received grants. For a story on all the recipients, go to www.wisbusiness.com.

In accepting the grant, VEDA executive director Sue Noble said, “The virtues of local food are well known, and our area has been in the forefront of the local foods movement, with all of our organic vegetable growers and Organic Valley. Between Premier’s opening and the Local Foods Initiative, we expect a tremendous economic ripple effect.

##

Sec of Ag helps cut ribbon for Premier Meats

By Gregg Hoffmann

Premier Meats opened in December, but it really became official Tuesday, when state Secretary of Agriculture Rod Nilsestuen helped cut the ribbon for the 12,000 square foot facility between Westby and Viroqua.

Nilsestuen joined Premier owners Dan and Sue Jacobson and Terry Hoyum and VEDA executive director Sue Noble in the ceremony.

“This is a testament to what is happening in foods in Wisconsin, especially locally produced food,” Nilsestuen said. “You’ve done a good job putting these plans together in 2 ½ years in an economy that has been challenging for a lot of businesses.

“We’ve come almost full circle from where we were a couple generations ago. People want the quality that comes from locally produced food.

“You’re seeing growth in agri-tourism and food trails around the state. Wisconsin is the No. 1 state for specialty meats in the country. More than 20% of all specialty meat plants in the country are here in Wisconsin.”

Nilsestuen also announced nine “Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin” grants. The largest of $40,000 went to the Western Wisconsin Local Foods Initiative, which will be coordinated by VEDA. See another story on this web site for more details.

Premier Meats is located midway between Viroqua and Westby near Highway 14 and Three Chimney Road. Two-thirds of the building is dedicated to the processing of meat while the other third includes a retail shop.

The facility offers fresh and frozen beef, pork, lamb, dairy and additional complimentary products. It has the capacity to process 150 head of beef, as well as hogs and sheep.

##

Hello Members and Welcome to the New Year! As Valley Stewardship Network transitions into 2010 we begin the year by sadly saying Goodbye to our current Water Quality Monitor Program Manager, Gary Thompson, and welcoming our new staff member, Sarah Grainger, who will assume his role at VSN. Please read the wonderful letter that they have written to our membership and welcome Sarah into the VSN family!







New Year greetings to all,

As 2009 was coming to a close, I found myself reflecting often on personal challenges experienced throughout this past year. Personal reflection can be a helpful but sometimes sobering mental exercise. Physical, mental, and spiritual well being can be a rewarding and delightful life experience when in balance, and appreciated at heightened levels when replaced with imbalance.

Many of you are aware that I contracted a severe case of Lyme infection early in 2009, that became an increasingly troubling health challenge in the preceding months. The Valley Stewardship Network (VSN) Board and staff extended incredible grace to me, as I tried to regain my ability to return as Water Quality Monitoring Program coordinator. I felt blessed when both staff and Board members came forward to fill the void created by my absence.

After months of attempting to return to my responsibilities, it became increasingly clear to me that I was not going to be able to return to my previous role. I sadly submitted my resignation to the VSN Board at the November Board meeting. I say sadly, because it has been personally rewarding, and wonderfully fulfilling, to be able to be involved with a work activity that one loves. Of the many employment activities I’ve experienced in my life, working alongside community members to monitor, preserve, and protect water resources, has been by far the most rewarding.


I would like to thank all the volunteer monitors, Citizen Based Monitoring Program staff, local and state agency staff, local and state NGO’s, VSN members, and the greater community, for sharing your knowledge, encouragement, and support during the last six years. I’m forever grateful to have been part of this important activity.

It’s with great pleasure, anticipation, and excitement, that I introduce you to Sarah Grainger, the new VSN, WQM Program Manager. Sarah is an incredibly bright, and delightfully personable woman, who I’m convinced will take the program to new heights of accomplishment. I look forward to working alongside her, as I continue to be involved as a volunteer monitor.


Sincerely,


Gary Thompson

 


Hello Members!

Thank you Gary for your kind words! I am very excited to be the new Water Quality Program Manager. I know I have big shoes to fill but I will do what I can to maintain and grow the Water Quality Program.


A little bit about me… I came to the United States in 2008 to be with my husband Luke. Although not originally from the area we fell in love with the Driftless region and decided to make it our home. I am encouraged to follow my calling in environmental protection and water quality. I have a Bachelors in Environmental Systems Engineering from the University of Regina, Saskatchewan, and a Masters of Civil Engineering specializing in Pollution Control and Waste Management from the University of British Columbia. Further to my education I have worked with regulatory agencies including Environment Canada, Saskatchewan Environment and SaskWater, municipalities, both as an employee and a consultant, and a consulting engineering firm.

VSN has an electrifying vision for the Water Quality Monitoring Program in 2010. We will be continuing and further developing our Water Quality Monitoring, Well Monitoring, and Education and Stewardship Programs. We will also be working on a Watershed Assessment to determine the current condition of the watershed and to be used as a baseline for future monitoring and assessment.


I look forward to meeting and working with everyone in maintaining and improving the health of our watershed.

Respectfully yours,

Sarah Grainger

 


If anyone would like to reach Gary Thompson or contact Sarah to welcome her to the organization, I have included their emails below.

Gary Thompson - vsngary@gmail.com
Sarah Grainger - vsnsarah@gmail.com

Local Food Community Celebration & Vernon County Premier of Critically Acclaimed Movie FRESH

The Valley Stewardship Network’s Food and Farm Initiative is partnering with the Viroqua Food Co-op to host FRESH, a movie by Ana Joanes. In addition to the movie, be the first to hear about several exciting new projects in our region that are promoting local foods and building a healthy food system in southwest Wisconsin. Join us in celebration on Saturday, February 6th from 3-6pm at Green Man Music Hall in downtown Viroqua, WI at 215 S Main Street. In support of the Food and Farm initiative the suggested donation is $10 at the door.

We will be serving a winter local foods dinner with wine from Vernon Vineyards, coffee generously donated from Kickapoo Coffee and local beer served by Cafe OZ. Wine and beer will be provided for an additional cost.

Then take your seats as the movie FRESH "celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are reinventing our food system. Forging healthier, sustainable alternatives, they offer a practical vision of our food and our planet's future." Learn more at Freshthemovie.com.

Following the movie there will be a FRESH Endeavors presentation. Come listen to local FRESH entrepreneurs and volunteers who are working on new food system projects sure to change the way we as local eaters think about our food system. You will surely be inspired by all the good work taking place here in our region!

Sue Noble, Executive Director of the Vernon Economic Development Association, and Jessica Luhning, Grant Writing
Consultant for Earth Vision LLC and Board Member of the Valley Stewardship Network will provide details about their recently funded Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin Grant Project. The project will fund the start-up of a Western Wisconsin Local Food Cooperative. The project is a partnership of the Valley Stewardship Network Food & Farm Initiative, Organic Valley, Western Technical College, Vernon Memorial Hospital, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Three Rivers Waldorf School, Pleasant Ridge Waldorf School, Viroqua Area Schools, Keewaydin Organics, Harvest Moon Farms, Harmony Valley Farm, Z & E Farm, Driftless Organics, Westby Co-op Creamer and Premier Meats, Inc. As the project grows more institutional partners and local farmers will be encouraged to participate.

Jamie Johnson, President of Heirloom, LLC will present plans for the launch of Edible Madison, a quarterly publication that will celebrate the abundance of local foods in Southern Wisconsin. Edible Madison aims to educate Wisconsin residents and travelers about opportunities to participate in the region’s dynamic local food movement. The publication will be packed with stories about the agri-culture, food and farmers of the region and will establish Southern Wisconsin as a distinct culinary region within the national network of Edible Communities publications.

Nicole Penick, Food and Farm Initiative Coordinator, will be sharing the highlights of their pilot project Kickapoo Harvest: Gleaning for Healthy Communities as well as their plans for the 2010 growing season. The Food and Farm Initiative provides a Direct Marketers' Guide each year for Vernon County and has published a Community Food Assessment covering Vernon County and an economic food assessment covering Vernon, Crawford, Monroe and Richland Counties.

Kile Martz will present about Rhubarb a new retail space and community kitchen in downtown Viroqua. Rhubarb features a baking and canning kitchen that will be geared towards people wanting to start a value added food business. The retail space will feature food, gifts, and artisan works from the Driftless Region including those produced in the kitchen. “Our area is rich in agricultural and artistic heritage, so we decided to bring it all together in a celebration of our area.” Rhubarb is right next to Driftless Fair Traders on the first floor of the Hotel Fortney.

Bjorn Bergman, Vernon Area AmeriCorps Farm to School member and Kathleen Hein from Crawford Area Farm to School will be speaking about their work in school districts throughout the region. Bjorn will share stories from the Harvest Challenge event, teaching in the classrooms and his upcoming projects for the 2010 growing season. Kathleen will share her experience in starting the Local Harvest project which showcases a local food item each month on the school lunch menu. Farm to School is a nation wide initiative to bring fresh food from local farms into school lunches while educating children about the benefits of local foods.

Laura Brown, Crawford County Community Development Educator, will share the new projects that are supporting local food efforts. These projects include Driftless Wisconsin Grown, a coalition of producers and consumers working together around food and farm issues, Plant Your Roots a grazing initiative, two new community kitchens in Prairie du Chien and Gays Mills and a new farmer's market coupon program.

Please join us and support YOUR local food system!


Sincerely,

Emily Joy Rozeske
Office Manager
Valley Stewardship Network
124 1/2 S. Main Street
Viroqua, Wisconsin 54665

(608) 637-3615
www.kickapoovsn.org

Greetings and Happy 1st of February! Here is a quick email to remind you about the FRESH event this weekend. We would love your attendance and support for the VSN Food and Farm Program.

I have also included a few other activities that you may be interested in attending that are coming up this month...

 
FRESH

The Valley Stewardship Network’s Food and Farm Initiative is partnering with the Viroqua Food Co-op to host FRESH, a movie by Ana Joanes. In addition to the movie, be the first to hear about several exciting new projects in our region that are promoting local foods and building a healthy food system in southwest Wisconsin. Join us in celebration on Saturday, February 6th from 3-6pm at Green Man Music Hall in downtown Viroqua, WI at 215 S Main Street. In support of the Food and Farm initiative the suggested donation is $10 at the door.

We will be serving a winter local foods dinner with wine from Vernon Vineyards, coffee generously donated from Kickapoo Coffee and local beer served by Cafe OZ. Wine and beer will be provided for an additional cost.

Then take your seats as the movie FRESH "celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are reinventing our food system. Forging healthier, sustainable alternatives, they offer a practical vision of our food and our planet's future." Learn more at Freshthemovie.com.

Following the movie there will be a FRESH Endeavors presentation. Come listen to local FRESH entrepreneurs and volunteers who are working on new food system projects sure to change the way we as local eaters think about our food system. You will surely be inspired by all the good work taking place here in our region!

Sue Noble, Executive Director of the Vernon Economic Development Association, and Jessica Luhning, Grant Writing
Consultant for Earth Vision LLC and Board Member of the Valley Stewardship Network will provide details about their recently funded Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin Grant Project. The project will fund the start-up of a Western Wisconsin Local Food Cooperative. The project is a partnership of the Valley Stewardship Network Food & Farm Initiative, Organic Valley, Western Technical College, Vernon Memorial Hospital, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Three Rivers Waldorf School, Pleasant Ridge Waldorf School, Viroqua Area Schools, Keewaydin Organics, Harvest Moon Farms, Harmony Valley Farm, Z & E Farm, Driftless Organics, Westby Co-op Creamer and Premier Meats, Inc. As the project grows more institutional partners and local farmers will be encouraged to participate.

Jamie Johnson, President of Heirloom, LLC will present plans for the launch of Edible Madison, a quarterly publication that will celebrate the abundance of local foods in Southern Wisconsin. Edible Madison aims to educate Wisconsin residents and travelers about opportunities to participate in the region’s dynamic local food movement. The publication will be packed with stories about the agri-culture, food and farmers of the region and will establish Southern Wisconsin as a distinct culinary region within the national network of Edible Communities publications.

Nicole Penick, Food and Farm Initiative Coordinator, will be sharing the highlights of their pilot project Kickapoo Harvest: Gleaning for Healthy Communities as well as their plans for the 2010 growing season. The Food and Farm Initiative provides a Direct Marketers' Guide each year for Vernon County and has published a Community Food Assessment covering Vernon County and an economic food assessment covering Vernon, Crawford, Monroe and Richland Counties.

Kile Martz will present about Rhubarb a new retail space and community kitchen in downtown Viroqua. Rhubarb features a baking and canning kitchen that will be geared towards people wanting to start a value added food business. The retail space will feature food, gifts, and artisan works from the Driftless Region including those produced in the kitchen. “Our area is rich in agricultural and artistic heritage, so we decided to bring it all together in a celebration of our area.” Rhubarb is right next to Driftless Fair Traders on the first floor of the Hotel Fortney.

Bjorn Bergman, Vernon Area AmeriCorps Farm to School member and Kathleen Hein from Crawford Area Farm to School will be speaking about their work in school districts throughout the region. Bjorn will share stories from the Harvest Challenge event, teaching in the classrooms and his upcoming projects for the 2010 growing season. Kathleen will share her experience in starting the Local Harvest project which showcases a local food item each month on the school lunch menu. Farm to School is a nation wide initiative to bring fresh food from local farms into school lunches while educating children about the benefits of local foods.

Laura Brown, Crawford County Community Development Educator, will share the new projects that are supporting local food efforts. These projects include Driftless Wisconsin Grown, a coalition of producers and consumers working together around food and farm issues, Plant Your Roots a grazing initiative, two new community kitchens in Prairie du Chien and Gays Mills and a new farmer's market coupon program.

________________________________________________________________ ___________________________


Tell DNR We Want Strong Rules on Polluted Runoff from Farms

 
Most Wisconsin farmers are responsible stewards of the land, but as we know all too well, polluted runoff still occurs. Due to a lack of adequate regulations, polluted runoff from agriculture -the soil and pollution washed off farm fields into rivers and lakes from rain or snowmelt- remains our biggest water quality problem statewide.

 
In the coming weeks the DNR will be looking for public input on proposed rules to address water pollution from farms of all sizes in the state. Because these rules affect all farms, we must make sure they are as environmentally responsible as possible. The DNR will hold six public hearings across the state between January 25th and February 25th (details below). The agriculture lobby is working hard to push for weakening these rules, so there is no doubt that big ag’s interests will be represented and we need to make sure that our voice is heard. Hundreds of Clean Wisconsin members commented on Rosendale Dairy’s plans to expand, and these proposed rules are the next step to addressing our state’s biggest source of water pollution.

 
If you would like more information about attending or testifying at a hearing or talking points for submitting comments, please contact Becky Bains at 608-251-7020, extension 17 or bbains@cleanwisconsin.org.

 
Hearing dates/locations:
January 25, Appleton - Outagamie County Highway Department, Highway Shop Conference Room, 1313 Holland Road.
January 28, Eau Claire - Best Western Trail Lodge, 3340 Mondovi Road, Room: Chippewa #1,
February 2, Waukesha - State Office Bldg., 141 NW Barstow St., Room 151. February 10, Madison - Lyman F. Anderson Agricultural and Conservation Center, 1 Fen Oak Court, Classrooms A & B (1st floor)
February 11, Wausau - Rib Mountain Municipal Center, 3700 N. Mountain Road (HWY NN).
February 25, Platteville - UW Platteville, Pioneer Student Center, University North Room, One University Plaza.
 
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Get Help with Land Management

A program on Saturday, February 20, 10:00 am at the County Highway shop south of Seneca, will familiarize landowners with the programs and organizations available to help them accomplish their objectives for natural areas on their properties. Many landowners have goals and dreams of how they imagine their forest or meadow could be in 5, 10, or 50, years. And many agencies and institutions stand ready to support responsible land management with cost-sharing for land-based projects, expertise, tax incentives, and other encouragement.
The Kickapoo Woods Cooperative will bring in a panel of people working in this area to explain the opportunities available. Government cost-sharing programs such as LIP (Landowner Incentive Program), MFL (Managed Forest Law), WHP (Wildlife Habitat Program), EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentive Program) and many others will be explained. In addition, conservation easements that protect land in perpetuity by attaching limits on development to the deed will be discussed. Expertise and guidance is available along with financial support, whether the landowner wants to do the work themselves or hire contractors. For landowners hoping to plant trees, establish wildlife habitat, control invasive species, restore native plant communities, improve timber stands, or other land management projects, this seminar will help them find funding as well as expertise to accomplish their objectives.
The panel will consist of Rick Lange, Crawford County Conservationist; Gary Harden, Crawford County DNR Forester; Darcy Kind, Prairie and Savanna Biologist, Wisconsin Bureau of Endangered Resourcees; and Abby Church, Conservation Specialist, Mississippi Valley Conservancy. In addition, we plan to have some landowners on hand to share their experiences with these programs and provide tips on what to watch out for when applying for and utilizing this assistance.
The event is free and open to the public, and the Kickapoo Woods Cooperative (KWC) will provide coffee and light refreshments. The program is expected to run three to four hours, depending on how long questions and answers continue after the presentations. For more information, contact KWC Education Coordinator Lila Marmel, sunmoon@mwt.net or 608-624-5269.
The County Highway Department is on the west side of the road at 21515 Highway 27 just south of the village of Seneca. The building has a nice community room where the event will take place.
The Kickapoo Woods Cooperative’s mission is to provide forestry education, management, and marketing services to residents of the Kickapoo valley and neighboring watersheds that will improve the forestry resource for the region.


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Grazing Conference


Tough economic times require innovation in farm businesses. Join farmers from across the region for an event that promises to be a hotbed of innovation, the 18th annual GrassWorks Grazing Conference February 18th through the 20th at Hotel Mead in Wisconsin Rapids. “The focus of the 2010 Grazing Conference is Pastures, People, Planet, Profits,” said Valerie Adamski, Executive Director of GrassWorks, the farmer organization sponsoring the event. “Farmers and agricultural professionals can learn how managed grazing can lower production costs while maintaining productivity and good environmental performance.”

Workshop topics will include how to get started, pasture irrigation, soil health, nutrient management, weed control and cattle genetics as well as multi-species grazing- and niche marketing—to name just a few. The trade show will feature products, services and information to help farmers improve their bottom line.

Nationally known keynote speaker Woody Tasch, founder of the Slow Money Alliance, will speak on Investing as if Food, Farms, and Fertility Mattered. The talk, scheduled for 4 pm on Saturday, is open to the general public. “Tasch’s message pulls together all of the themes of the Grazing Conference—it links grass-based farmers to consumers who are interested in sustainably raised meat and milk,” said Adamski. In keeping with that theme, conference meals will consist primarily of locally sourced seasonal and grass-fed selections.

Other keynote speakers include Minnesota farmer Jim VanDerPol, a regular contributor in Graze Magazine and Andrew Hager, a futurist and certified educator in Holistic Management.

Conference registration is $150 for GrassWorks members, $200 for non-members, and includes workshops, general sessions, trade show, lunches, Friday evening banquet and entertainment. Online registration is available. Single-day rates and special rates for students and children are available. For information on costs, volunteering, exhibiting and more visit the GrassWorks website www.grassworks.org or contact Heather Flashinski at 715-289-4896 OR grassheather@hotmail.com.

Due to the poor farm economy this year, GrassWorks is offering scholarships for financially distressed farmers. Please don’t hesitate to call if you need assistance.

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Sincerely,

Emily Joy Rozeske
Office Manager
Valley Stewardship Network
124 1/2 S. Main Street
Viroqua, Wisconsin 54665

(608) 637-3615
www.kickapoovsn.org

Join others concerned with stewardship of the Kickapoo Watershed
Become a member of the Valley Stewardship Network for all those who live, work and play in the Valley

Hi folks-
Just a reminder that we have an exciting evening planned for this Wednesday night in Prairie du Chien as we host Don Wickstrum from Quest Industrial. You see video demonstrations of some of Quest's amazing manufacturing robotics. I was really blown away the first time I saw these robots at work- you will be too! All are welcome and please bring a friend along!
Very best- Laura Brown

Attention Inventors, Entrepreneurs, and Existing Business Owners
************************************************************** ************
Prairie du Chien -McGregor- Marquette Area
Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club meeting

Wednesday February 3rd, 2010
Prairie du Chien City Hall 214 East Blackhawk Ave
Networking starts at 5:30 pm. Program begins at 6:00 pm.

Meetings are held every first Wednesday of the month.

This month's topic will be “Quest Industrial Robotics - Integrating Innovation and Industry"” with Quest Industrial Founder Don Wickstrum
http://www.questindustrial.com/

The meeting will feature Don Wickstrum, founder of Quest Industrial in Monroe, Wisconsin. Don will tell the story of how innovation has played a key role in the development of his successful robotics firm. Quest Industrial specializes in making robots for companies of all sizes. These have included robots to do plastic injection molding, metal grinding, slicing cheese, and decorating cakes. The Quest Pro Pick Pack is the first robotic cell that will automatically erect a box, pack and seal it. Don will show videos and slides of some of these amazing robots in action! An extraordinary presentation that you wont want to miss!

In 2009, Wickstrum was the recipient of the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award from the Green County Development Corporation; Southwest Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation awarded him Best Regional Entrepreneur for an established business; and the business college at his alma mater, UW-Platteville, awarded him with its Outstanding Alumni of the Year Award. Wickstrum and his wife, Mary, and two children own a home in Monroe, Wisconsin.

Plan to attend the Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club for a dynamic evening of networking with lots of creative people and plenty of resources to help you start or grow your business. Everyone is welcome and meetings are free and open to the public. The Prairie du Chien-McGregor-Marquette Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club is supported by the Prairie du Chien Area Chamber of Commerce, the McGregor Marquette Chamber of Commerce, Prairie du Chien Downtown Revitalization and the Crawford County UW Extension Program in Economic Development. For more information about this and other I&E Club meetings contact Laura Brown 608-326-0223 or check out the website at http://crawford.uwex.edu/cnred/index.html <http://crawford.uwex.edu/cnred/index.html>;
************************************************************
 
Laura Brown
Community & Economic Development Educator
Crawford County UW Cooperative Extension
225 N. Beaumont Road, Suite 240 Prairie du Chien, WI 53821 608-326-0224 Fax: 608-326-0226

My apologies to all who've already seen this, but as alfalfa is an
important bee crop, thought you'd want a say in what your girls take
back to the hive!
________________________________________
From: Organic Valley [reply-1008@driftless.organicvalley.coop]
Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 2:12 PM
To: Mandy McGee
Subject: Speak Out on GE Alfalfa to Protect Organic
 
February 3, 2010
 
Stop Genetically Engineered Alfalfa and Protect Organic Food!
 
The USDA recently released a draft of its Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS) on Genetically Engineered "Roundup Ready" Alfalfa, and
if we don't speak up, it's clear they intend to approve its commercial
use. We can't let this happen.
 
You may not think about alfalfa much when you're drinking organic milk,
but organic alfalfa is important to organic farming, as a nourishing
animal feed that's also a nitrogen-fixing soil enhancer. Once GE
alfalfa is introduced, its contamination of non-GE plants - including
organic - is all but inevitable. And because alfalfa is fed to dairy
cows and other livestock, contamination puts organic dairy and meat at
risk, too!
 
In their EIS, the USDA states "There is no evidence that consumers care
about GE contamination of organic alfalfa." We know that you do care.
Let's not be Monsanto's guinea pigs!
 
Now is your chance to be heard. Tell the USDA to protect organic food
and farmers from GE contamination, and NOT TO APPROVE Monsanto's GE
Alfalfa. Comments are due by February 16, 2010.
 
You CAN make a difference. Tell the USDA that you care about GE
contamination and your right to GMO-free organic foods.
 
Learn more and get talking points on our
website<http://driftless.organicvalley.coop/c.html?rtr=on&s=ljv7,7guj,s0,
 
9iw7,hau9,fs9p,1pmj>. Then take action at the Center for Food
Safety<http://driftless.organicvalley.coop/c.html...on&s=ljv7,7guj,s0,l
 
0qx,eqdd,fs9p,1pmj>, or submit comments
online<http://driftless.organicvalley.coop/c.html...on&s=ljv7,7guj,s0,c
 
of0,ihiu,fs9p,1pmj#submitComment?R=0900006480a6b7a1> to the USDA
directly.
 
After you write, let us know at
rootstock@organicvalley.coop<mailto:%20rootstock@organicvalley.coop>;.
We'll post some comments on our website to inspire others to speak out.
 
Thanks for all your support for family farmers and a sustainable
organic future for all!
 
Sincerely,
The Farmers and Staff of Organic Valley Family of Farms

The Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club Invites You
to treat your CREATIVE side!!

The next Inventors and Entrepreneurs Club meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 10th at Western Technical College in Viroqua. Networking starts at 5:30, the program begins at 6:00 pm. Stephen Woessner of the UW-La Crosse Small Business Development Center will present "Getting Your Business Web Site Online", including the steps to registering a domain name, sources to consider for Web site templates, and plenty of time for Q&A.

Woessner has been involved with the development of hundreds of Web sites. He has over 15 years of Web-related experience. He has also owned four businesses and is the author of "The Small Business Owner's Handbook to Search Engine Optimization".

Whether you have an idea or just like to think business, plan to attend for a dynamic evening of networking with lots of creative people. Everyone is welcome! For more information, check out the website at http://www.veda-wi.org/inventors_club.html or contact Sue Noble at 608-637-5396 or Laura Brown at 608-326-0224.

We hope to see you there!