Agriculture News & Events
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TCCA annual meeting to be held Feb. 13

Five directors will be elected and 2011 activities will be reviewed at the TCCA annual meeting Feb. 13.

Scholarships and seedlings offered by Soil and Water Conservation District

Growing educational opportunities as well as growing trees are both goals of a local organization committed to natural resource conservation.

Soil to Spoon is topic of unique student poster competition using soil based paints

Healthy soil is critical for producing a healthy, bountiful food supply. A contest for local students aims to highlight this with a unique art contest.

Agricultural programs face real challenges

Right now, the wheels of federal farm programs are running smoothly, which may not bode well for the farm bill and agricultural funding amid the tight budget situation.

Drilling for answers

Close to 200 people attended a community forum held at the Valley View Community Church Jan. 23 that focused on oil and natural gas exploration and drilling. The forum chose questions submitted to The Budget newspaper for a panel of lawmakers and experts in various fields to answer.

Dairy producer workshop scheduled

A dairy producer meeting will be held Feb. 15, at the Dutch Valley Restaurant, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Steer weigh-in to be held at fairgrounds Dec. 10

Tuscarawas County 4-H and FFA junior fair steer weigh-in to take place at Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds Show Arena.

Active time for deer means extra caution for Ohio drivers

White-tailed deer provide abundant recreation opportunities for hunters and wildlife watchers, but they can also cost millions of dollars every year through deer-vehicle collisions.

Dairy program udderly successful over 24 years

The Tuscarawas County Junior Fair Dairy Sale has become legendary in its response from those in the business community to help support young people. Supporters were recognized at the 24th annual banquet, where one reminisced about the early beginnings of the program.

Don and Ann Carruthers farm named Farm of the Year

Which Tuscarawas County farm was chosen as Farm of the Year? That and a few other well deserved awards were given out at the 68th annual Tuscarawas Soil and Water Conservation District meeting.

Enrollment for 2010 crop losses to begin Nov. 14

Enrollment for 2010 crop losses under the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments (SURE) program will begin Nov. 14.

It was all about the children at the annual Forest Heritage Festival

Once again, the Forest Heritage Festival to benefit Akron Children's Hospital and the Children's Miracle Network has been deemed a successful venture by organizers.

Meeting set for Mud Run Watershed, Oct. 5

An organizational meeting for the Mud Run Watershed initiative will be held Wednesday, Oct. 5, at 6 p.m. in the Warwick Township Hall near Tuscarawas. This meeting is open to the public.

Save Historic Zoar: Village has rich heritage in Tuscarawas Valley

The rich history of the Separatist Society that founded the historic village of Zoar is an important part of Tuscarawas County's heritage. That heritage, however, is in danger, unless an ongoing study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers results in the decision to repair the earthen Zoar levee and...

Flat Top Bakery celebrates a grand opening in new retail location

Michael Lehr and Debbie Casto started Flat Top Bakery out of their Dover home a few years ago. As regular vendors at local farmers markets, they soon developed a loyal following. A recent opportunity to open a shop in New Philadelphia was seized and now Flat Top Bakery has a retail location located...

Save Historic Zoar

The historic village of Zoar is a unique piece of Tuscarawas County's heritage, but its future is in peril without the intervention of concerned local residents.

Ballots for annual County Committee Election will be mailed Nov. 4

Tuscarawas County Farm Service Agency to mail ballots Nov. 4 for annual County Committee Election.

Gardening is in the genes for sibling Gardeners of the Year

Green thumbed siblings took top gardening honors at the Tuscarawas County Fair with their vegetable harvests and flower displays.

Junior Fair auctions set new records for the Tuscarawas County Fair

Months of hard work, dedication, and preparation paid off for Tuscarawas County 4-H members, as the three agricultural sales at the fair brought in record numbers of both bidders and funds for the 4-H program.

Brothers’ choice to go for goats pays off at fair

There were several categories of goats displayed throughout the week at the Tuscarawas County Fair, from tiny pet pygmies to dairy, wether, and pack goat projects, but a meat market goat owned by a 4-H'er in his final year of 4-H paid off big for young exhibitor.

Top 10 4-H club booths named at Tuscarawas County Junior Fair

Agricultural and club displays are a big part of the Tuscarawas County Fair. The results are in - 10 Tuscarawas County 4-H clubs win outstanding booth awards at the Fair.

Fair officials pleased with 2011 fair

The 2011 Tuscarawas County Fair saw a couple of firsts this year, the success of some new events, and a spectacular concert by country singer Joe Nichols. Learn how to weigh in on your choice of next year's entertainer.

Stacie Steel wins Super Showmanship title

The Super Showmanship competition is the ultimate experience for the nine winners of supreme showmanship in their species. Find out who was named the best of the best in this competition held at the Tuscarawas County Fair on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Round ‘em up cowboy with the Cloverbud Roundup at the Tuscarawas County Fair

The youngest members of the 4-H family, the Cloverbuds, may not take cows or pigs to the fair, but they are included in a very special event each Saturday of the fair.

Thousands enjoy Community Family Day at the fair

Through the sponsorship of J&J Refuse, a Kimble Company, thousands of fairgoers enjoyed getting into the fair for only $2 on Community Family Day, Sept. 22. Just how many attended? Hint: It was 5,356 more than last year's Thursday.

Got plenty of milk: Dairy day at the Tuscarawas County Fair

The skies may have been gray, but there was plenty of white in the arena as 4-H Dairy project members exhibited their animals in the main arena during the fair on Friday, Sept. 23.

Dairy Judging Contest results

Results of Saturday's 2011 Tuscarawas County Fair Dairy Judging competition, featuring five area teams, are in.

Kiddie Tractor Pull: Fun event promotes farm safety

The mission of the Tuscarawas County Farm safety organization is to make sure farm safety is something children grow up knowing. The group put safety in the spotlight at the Kiddie Tractor Pull on Saturday, Sept. 24 at the Tuscarawas County Fair.

Pampered pet rabbits win approval at Junior Fair Show

Pet rabbit owners are wild about their furry friends, as demonstrated at the Pet Rabbit Junior Fair Show at the Tuscarawas County Fair.

Hogs shown at their very best by top Junior Fair showmen

Pull together hundreds of pigs and dozens of 4-H members, and you get a show you'll long remember at the Tuscarawas County Fair.

Junior Fair Market Steer, Feeder Calf, and Beef Breeding Show winners named

For one young man, Wednesday's Beef Show at the Tuscarawas County Fair was a capstone event, marking his fourth Grand Champion animal in two years of 4-H involvement.

Hoppin’ great fun at Tuscarawas County Fair Rabbit Show

The 2011 Tuscarawas County Fair Rabbit Show produced plenty of winners on the third day of the fair.

New Junior Fair event promises to be a popular project for years ahead

Spectators at the Tuscarawas County Fair may have been surprised to see 4-H participants leading goats over bridges and through an obstacle course as a new event made its inaugural appearance at the 2011 fair in Dover.

Ride ‘em cowgirl – and cowboy: Western Horse Show produces sibling winners

There was plenty of sparkle and lots of cowboy hats at the Tuscarawas County Junior Fair Western Horse Show, as well as lots of friendly competition among siblings.

Prime pork at Tuscarawas County Fair Swine Show

As usual, the Tuscarawas County Fair Swine Show drew a packed house as 268 hog projects competed for top honors.

Tuscarawas County Junior Fair Dog Show winners announced

The annual 4-H Dog Show at the Tuscarawas County Fair allowed owners and dogs to shine.

Junior Fair Poultry Show continues to grow

There are plenty of feathered contestants this year at the Tuscarawas County Fair, as record numbers of 4-H'ers participate with their birds.

Tusc County’s own featured in Bred and Fed market steer show

Market steer showmanship and Tuscarawas County Bred and Fed market steer competitions helped to kickoff the first day of the 2011 Tuscarawas County Fair.

Talking turkey at the fair: Gobblers strut their stuff

Twenty-one tom turkeys are a big attraction at the 2011 Tuscarawas County Fair, as the first ever market turkey 4-H project proves to be popular with both 4-H members and spectators.

Mary had a little lamb; it followed her to the Tuscarawas County Fair

Woolies competed Sept. 19 during opening day of the 2011 Tuscarawas County Junior Fair Sheep Show.

Winners all around as 2011 Junior Fair royalty named and plate auction held

And the winners are: Find out who was named the Junior Fair King and Queen and who had the winning fair plate bids in pre-fair activities held on Sunday, Sept.18, at the Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds in the Main Show Arena.

Letter to the Editor

Letter to the Editor extends a personal thank you.

Seasonal produce at its best at Harvest Barn

Harvest Barn is a produce market where much of what is available is grown on-site in the seven acres of fields surrounding the unheated, non-electric barn. Owners Lori and Kirk Spillman hope that growing most of their products will separate them from other markets in the region.

Amazing Migration

Their numbers are decreasing, their sustenance is disappearing, and their breeding grounds are being destroyed. See what simple things you can do to help preserve one of nature's most miraculous migrators during Ohio's peak migration period.

Tuscarawas County Farm Bureau 2011 annual meeting

Another successful year for the Tuscarawas County Farm Bureau was celebrated during the annual meeting held August 23 at J.I.M.'s Place at New Philadelphia.

Win up to $1,000 in the ‘My Ohio Ag' video contest

Contestants can submit videos to YouTube for a chance at some big money in the "My Ohio Agriculture" video contest.

Steam clouds roll through the air at 48th annual Dover Steam Show

The power of steam helped to build the United States of America, and that power was commemorated as steam engine fans from all over Ohio and beyond gathered for the 48th annual Dover Steam Show.

Financial crisis delivers indirect blow to agriculture

With falling stocks in the news, one has to wonder how the weak economy affects the agricultural industry.

ECO Farming: A new farming system for the 21st century

A new concept for farming has been developed by the Ohio State University Extension in conjuction with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Ohio No-Till Council.

Farm Science Review wheat harvest yields well despite weather extremes

Wheat planted for The Ohio State University's Farm Science Review yielded a successful farm average of 85 bushels.

Prevent annual weed seed production in fallow fields

Although the summer winding down, there is still time to control weeds in fields that were not planted for crops this year due to wet weather.

Follow the rules and regulations when directly marketing meat

Locally-produced foods are gaining in popularity, but selling meat to the general public requires several considerations.

Farm Day at Tuscora Park brings the crowds to learn about life down on the farm

At least 500 children and adults attended the Farm Day event hald at Tuscora Park. Although the event has been taking place on area farms for years, this was the first time it has been held at the park.

Strasburg Corn Festival draws a hungry crowd

The village of Strasburg hosted the 30th Strasburg Corn Festival at Franklin Park, July 29-30. The well-attended event included delicious homemade food from local vendors, live entertainment, games and contests in an effort to raise money for the upkeep and beautification of the park.

Tuscora Park is the site for bringing the country to the city at Farm Day 2011

Too often, farmers and the many things they produce for our everyday lives are taken for granted. Families are invited to Farm Day 2011, a unique opportunity to see farm life up close and personal without leaving the city.

Helmke competes in Junior National Shorthorn Show

New Philadelphia 13-year-old, Landon Helmke, competed in a national competition in Indiana.

Family Farm Field Day promotes self-sufficiency and sustainability

Family Farm Field Day was held July 15-16 at the Hershbergers' Schontal Farm near Barrs Mills. Thousands attended to enjoy vendors, demonstrations, workshops and food. The annual event is coordinated each year by the Small Farm Institute to promote sustainability and self-sufficiency in grass-based...

Bringing big beautiful butterflies to your home

The J.E. Reeves Home in Dover is holding garden related programs throughout the summer. On Sunday, July 17, the second program of the season took place; a demonstration and lecture about setting up butterfly gardens at home.

Dairy project participants board busses to Tennessee for an unforgettable experience

Three days and two nights in Tennessee recently gave local 4-H members a glimpse into how agriculture is both the same and different than it is in their own state. The 54 youth not only learned a great deal, but also had many opportunities for fun during their trip.

Doughty Valley Steam Days offers reunion atmosphere as patrons take a trip back in time

A bridge to days gone by will take place July 21-23 at Charm, where the 11th annual Doughty Valley Steam Days takes place.

OSU Extension’s Farm Science Review to be held Sept. 20-22

The 49th annual Farm Science Review will be held at the Molly Caren Agricultural Center in London, Ohio, Sept. 20-22.

Norma Johnson Center to host native Ohio butterfly exhibit

Native Ohio butterfly exhibit will begin July 18 and continue through July 31 at the Norma Johnson Center.

Family Farm Field Day celebrates the working family, July 15-16

A vendor expo and plenty of workshops and discussions showcase the working family farm at the Family Farm Field Day in Sugarcreek, July 15-16.

Zoar’s Family Work Day

To help illustrate Zoar's history of sharing the work and also to demonstrate what everyday life would have been like for the original settlers, Zoar held its annual Werktag event, allowing visitors to get hands-on with the village's history.

USDA declares disaster designation for farmers and producers in 12 Ohio counties

The USDA has declared disaster designatons for farmers and producers in 12 Ohio counties.

Dover Public Library continues workshops about local, seasonal produce

A series of workshops featuring local, seasonal produce continues in July with blueberries and in August with corn. The Dover Public Library, Union Hospital and the OSU Extension Office have partnered to help the public learn more about eating healthy food grown close to home.

Include low fat milk and cheese in your healthy lifestyle

Drinking milk benefits your health and the local economy. Ohio is a leader in milk and cheese production in the nation. Consuming dairy products low in fat can be a part of a healthy lifestyle.

Condition the soil the old fashioned way with dairy cow manure

Conditioning the soil and adding nutrients the old fashioned way is easily accomplished by applying dairy cow manure to the soil. Unlike other animal manures, dairy cow manure has fewer weed seeds and can be applied fresh or composted.

Dairying provides a peaceful life for Winesburg area farm family

The Mervin Hershberger family appreciates the opportunities for working together as a family that dairy farming provides for them, including a dip into the farm pond as a reward for a day of satisfying work.

Milk in many forms can ‘do a body good’

Although a large, black and white Holstein cow might be the first thing that pops into the mind of the average American when they hear the word, 'milk,' cows do not have the corner of the world's milk market.

Planting efforts hampered by unusually wet spring weather conditions

Although Ohio farmers welcome rain as a necessity for growth of crops and livestock, extremely wet weather conditions, as experienced in the region through April and May, can have a detrimental effect on the planting and harvesting calendar.

From fresh milk to delicious Swiss cheese – quality control every step of the way

One of the most loved products created by milk is cheese. And in this region of Ohio, Swiss cheese reigns as the number one favorite.

Milk haulers – the link connecting the farm to the dairy

Hauling up to 4,500 gallons of fresh milk is no simple task. A local hauler gives the inside scoop on this very important task that is a vital link in the human food chain.

Tuscarawas County royalty promote dairy

Liz Beller and Gabrielle Heter promote the dairy industry during their reign as dairy princesses.

Thunder Valley Pioneers hear safety reports

The Thunder Valley Pioneers held a meeting May 15, with 30 members present.

Ohio Holstein Association schedules events

The Ohio Holstein Association has scheduled several events for the upcoming months.

Playing it safe down on the farm

Despite the peaceful setting, farming is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. Machinery, pesticides, chemicals, livestock accidents and disease are all areas of concern on the farm. Safety has to come first.

Plan ahead for the graduation party

Involve the whole family in the graduation celebration, and let them contribute their time and energy to make this event special, whether it's planting flowers, running errands, or helping to prepare the food.

Time to nominate farmers for Farm Service Agency committee election

Beginning June 15, voters can nominate farmers for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) committee election.

Envirothon helps high school students get an early education in conservation

The 2011 Area 3 Envirothon proved to be a perfect opportunity for area high school students to test their knowledge in several science fields. The event took place April 27 at the Holmes County Training Center, and included more than four dozen schools.

Healthy Tusc asks that you plant an Extra Row for the Hungry

The Healthy Tusc Taskforce is once again asking local gardeners to think ahead this year and Plant an Extra Row for the Hungry.

Making the most of the rain

The Tuscarawas Soil and Water Conservation District will show you how to take advantage of all the rain we have received lately by creating and maintaining a rain garden, May 10, at Fort Laurens.

Great soil equals healthy plants

Every great garden begins with great soil. If your garden soil contains too much clay or not enough sand, it can be amended with organic matter that will help create an environment that is healthy for plants and healthy for the creatures that live in it.

Volunteers form committee to make needed repairs to Junior Fair facilities at county fairgrounds

The Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds shines as the center of many agricultural events in the area. Perhaps none are more crucial than the Junior Fair activities, where hundreds of youth exhibit their project animals each year. A group of volunteers is taking on much needed improvement projects in the...

Zoar Park Street Farmers’ Market seeking vendors

A new farmers market will open in Zoar this May. Market managers are currently looking for interested vendors.

OSU develops cow reproduction technique to boost industry efficiency, profits

Researchers at the OARDC have pioneered a new protocol for increasing pregnancy rates in beef cattle.

4-H Clover Campaign raises money for local, national 4-H groups

Purchase a paper clover or attend a chicken barbecue, all in support of local and national 4-H groups.

Freshman Congressman Bob Gibbs passes first bill, making red tape disappear in Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act of 2011

Congressman Bob Gibbs recently felt the thrill of success, passing his first bill in Congress. HB 872 received support from both parties.

Gibbs passes first bill; the Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act of 2011

Congressman Gibbs introduced his first bill as chairman of the Water Resources subcommittee and Ohio's 18th District Representative, and responds as it passes.

Kaufman Realty and Critchfield, Critchfield & Johnston to host oil and gas leasing seminar

In an effort to raise awareness and help landowners get their questions answered, Kaufman Realty and Auctions and the law firm of Critchfield, Critchfield & Johnston are hosting an oil and gas leasing seminar.

Dennison farmers market to open in May

Dennison farmers market to open May 7 at McCluskey Park.

Tuscarawas County Pork Producers come together for 2011 banquet

The Tuscarawas County Pork Producers held their annual banquet March 10 and crowned both a queen and princess.

Extension Office 4-H program commends local club for ongoing outstanding community service activities

Although community service is a recognized part of many youth organization activities, the 4-H program requires that members assist in several community service activities throughout the year. One club, however, consistently goes beyond the call of duty.

CampWORKS for teen 4-H volunteer camp counselors

Summer can be a carefree time for students enjoying time off from school. But teens involved in the 4-H CampWORKS program find that fun and learning can go hand in hand and result in personal success.

Public interest grows over hydraulic fracturing

Seventy people attended the showing of Gasland at JIM's Place on Saturday, March 19, to learn more about the use of hydraulic fracturing as a means of extracting natural gas from the region. The event was sponsored by the Tuscarawas County Sustainability Network and Carroll Concerned Citizens.

National Agricultural Week breakfast expresses appreciation for those involved in farming

A hearty all-you-can-eat breakfast was prepared for those involved in local agriculture recently. The early morning event was a way of thanking them for contributing to the nation's food supply, all compliments of the Tuscarawas Soil and Water Conservation District and grateful community members.

Don't forget to nourish your marriage every day

Marriage is a commitment. It is important to get away and spend time together to nourish your relationship, to maintain a satisfying marriage.

Study to determine best management strategy for burcucumber in corn

Scientists are actively looking for ways to manage burcucumber in corn. A new two-year study is showing promising results.

ECO-BIA ushers in springtime

The 16th annual ECO-BIA Spring Home and Garden Show is a sure sign of spring. Vendors filled New Towne Mall with the latest in home improvement and landscaping ideas. The show continues March 17-20.

Tuscarawas/Carroll County Farm Bureaus hold special meeting, March 28

Gary Conklin, a Plain City dairy farmer, will tell his story at a special meeting of the Tuscarawas/Carroll County Farm Bureaus.

Tusc Sustainability Network offering free showing of Gasland

The Tuscarawas County Sustainability Network invites the public to a free viewing of the Academy Award nominated documentary, Gasland, in an effort to raise awareness about the recent influx of natural gas drilling and the techniques used to extract the natural resource.

Discover 4-H event gives families an inside look at the many benefits of the popular youth program

The multiple benefits of the Tuscarawas County 4-H youth program were demonstrated during Discover 4-H day in New Philadelphia. Projects from rocketry to genealogy are available for those who participate in the popular program from the Ohio State University Extension office.

Beller crowned senior dairy princess during Tuscarawas County Dairy Farmers Banquet

Recognition for top dairy herds and the crowning of the 2011 Dairy Princesses were the highlights of the recent Tuscarawas County Dairy Farmers Banquet.

Some best buys for cost and nutrition

Kate Shumaker gives tips on how to make your food dollars go farther than before.

Crossroads Resource Conservation and Development program scheduled for federal funding chopping block

As the federal funding ax falls, one area group, committed to supporting community development for the past 30 years, is faced with the very real possibility of closing its doors.

State Rep. David Hall visits area to discuss vital natural resources issues with constituents

Rep. David Hall, newly appointed Ohio Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee chairman, recently met with constituents of the Crossroads Resource Conservation and Development council to discuss how new business endeavors across Ohio by the oil and gas industry may impact Ohio's natural...

Community garden development workshop encourages growing together

Community gardens are a wonderful way to enjoy local, fresh foods while improving healthy eating habits. A recent workshop from Healthy Tusc on developing community gardens provided valuable insights and resources for participants.

2011 grassland reserve program sign up deadline announced

The deadline for submitting Grassland Reserve Program applications is March 18, for applicants to submit offers for GRP easement and GRP rental contracts.

Financial relief from Mother Nature

During the last 25 years, the incidence of extreme weather has increased nearly 260 percent, while average crop failure rates in the 2000s have jumped 69 percent from what they were in the 1970s. All of this has given rise to a new phenomenon: weather insurance.

Tuscarawas County Farm Bureau inviting new members to join the organization

Tuscarawas County Farm Bureau members met recently to kick-off a new membership drive in the county. Members are encouraged to join together to influence legislation affecting agriculture, including the continuation of the CAUV program and the repeal of the Ohio estate tax, which significantly...

Learn to plant your way to better health at the Community Garden Development Workshop

The upcoming Community Garden Development Workshop will interest anyone who wants to organize or host a community garden.

Putting those New Year’s promises into action

It's time to put those New Year's promises into action.


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