Industrial Hemp Growing License Applications Available NOW from the Maine Dept of Agriculture.

Industrial Hemp Rules Adopted, License Applications Now Available

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry adopted rules that establish the requirements for becoming licensed to grow industrial hemp (Chapter 274: Rules for Growing Industrial Hemp (PDF)). The rules became effective on April 4, 2016 and outline the application and licensing process, the fees involved and the procedures for monitoring the growth of industrial hemp.

Please Note: The final rule includes an extension of the application deadline to July 1 for 2016 only.  The Department is currently accepting license applications (PDF).

Also Note:  The Department is in the process of moving and our offices will be closed April 15 and re-open at our new location in the Marquardt Building in Augusta on April 19.  Our mailing address will remain the same: 28 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Should you have questions, you may contact Gary Fish at 207-287-7545 or email gary.fish@maine.gov .

Industrial hemp license applications and the information below are available on the [www.maine.gov/dacf/php/hemp]Industrial Hemp Website

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Industrial Hemp Licensing Facts

What is the process for becoming licensed to grow industrial hemp in Maine?

1. Apply for a license
2. Departmental review and approval of application
3. Sign licensing agreement
4. Testing of crop prior to harvest

How do I apply for a license to grow industrial hemp?
Complete the license application and submit the $100.00 application fee.
Cover letter and application to grow industrial hemp (PDF)

Explanation of fees
Maine law requires that the Department cover the costs of operating the industrial hemp program by charging an application fee, license fee and a per acre fee.  These fees are as follows:

• $100 application fee – this fee must be submitted with the application.
• $500 license fee – this fee is due after approval of the application and must be submitted with the signed licensing agreement.
• $50/acre fee – this fee is due after approval of the application and must be submitted with the signed licensing agreement.

 Fees collected will cover Departmental costs including, but not limited to:

• Inspector travel costs including time to and from the growing area to take crop samples for THC content analysis;
• Costs of transporting crop samples to a lab for THC content analysis;
• Laboratory fees for testing crop samples;
• Costs of equipment and supplies used in sampling;
• Departmental time reviewing applications, preparing licensing agreements and issuing licenses;
• Other administrative costs. 

Please note that the fees charged will only cover THC testing for one composite sample taken to represent the entire licensed crop.  Licensees that wish to have individual growing areas or varieties tested separately will be responsible for paying any additional laboratory costs.

DEA permitting and obtaining seed
Availability of hemp seed is a major challenge to potential growers of industrial hemp.  While Maine law may allow for the planting of industrial hemp, federal law does not differentiate between industrial hemp and marijuana making industrial hemp subject to the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA, 21 U.S.C. §801) and therefore hemp seed can only be legally imported by obtaining a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration and import permit. 

Section 7606 of the 2014 Farm Bill, provided a mechanism for DEA to issue permits to state departments of agriculture and institutions of higher learning, provided the imported industrial hemp seed is for research purposes.  Maine’s industrial hemp law, as written, allows for planting of industrial hemp for any purpose, including both research and commercial purposes.  

At this time, The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry does not intend to apply for a DEA permit. Currently, the Department is not planning any research projects involving industrial hemp, nor do we have the capacity to do this research.  We are not aware of any institutions of higher learning in the state intending to conduct such research, and if they were planning hemp research they could apply for their own DEA permit.  Unfortunately, Section 7606 of the Farm Bill does not provide for the DEA to issue permits to individual farmers to import hemp seed or to the Department to import hemp seed to be distributed and grown for commercial purposes.

What is a Certified Seed Source?
Maine law requires that industrial hemp be planted using a certified seed source. The industrial hemp rule (Chapter 274) defines a certified seed source as one that is certified according to AOSCA (Association of Seed Certifying Agencies) or other approved standards and comes from plants that were tested during the active growing season and found to produce industrial hemp with 0.3% THC content or less.

The Department understands the very limited availability of industrial hemp seed and the certified seed source requirements are difficult or nearly impossible to meet.  While the Department is required to verify and collect documents which indicate the industrial hemp seed planted comes from a certified seed source, at least for 2016 we can be somewhat flexible on the form this certification may take.  Acceptable forms of certification could include a letter, form or other written verification or combination of these documents that at a minimum includes:

• Third party (someone other than the applicant and the grower of the seed) THC content testing results for the industrial hemp.  The third party should be identified on the testing results;
• THC content test results must be for the variety or varieties included on the application and preferably for the specific lot of seed to be planted;
• Results of THC content testing and the date tests were conducted;
• The name of the seed supplier and origin of the seed.

As industrial hemp seed certified by AOSCA, or other official seed certification programs becomes more available, the Department will review and revise our policies and issue stricter guidelines for acceptable documentation of seed certification.

Sampling and Testing
The licensee will allow the inspection and sampling of the industrial hemp crop at any and all times that the Department deems necessary.  The licensee will be notified prior to inspection and sampling.  During the inspection and sampling the licensee or authorized representative will allow complete and unrestricted access to all industrial hemp plants within the licensed growing area(s).

If the industrial hemp crop has not been inspected and sampled 15 days prior to the anticipated harvest date, the licensee will notify the Department of intent to harvest.

All industrial hemp plants from all varieties and licensed growing areas will be tested for THC content as one composite sample.  Licensees that request to have growing areas or varieties tested separately are responsible for paying laboratory analysis costs for any additional testing.

Crops testing above the allowable THC limit (0.3% THC on a dry weight basis) will be destroyed in a manner approved by the Department.  The licensee is responsible for paying all costs associated with crop destruction.

I have a medical marijuana license.  Can I grow hemp?
Yes, but industrial hemp and medical marijuana plants cannot be co-mingled. The rule states: No industrial hemp plants shall be included in other licensed marijuana production programs.  No growing area may contain Cannabis plants which the licensee knows or has reason to know are of a variety that will produce a plant that when tested will contain more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis.   

What is a growing area?  
A "Growing Area" is defined as the land (the current rules only allow growth of industrial hemp "outdoors") on which a licensee cultivates or plans to cultivate industrial hemp.

A "Non-Contiguous Growing Area" is defined as a growing area on which a licensee grows or plans to grow industrial hemp that is separated from other growing areas by more than 50 miles.

Can I include multiple growing areas on one license?  
Growing areas that are within 50 miles of each other can be included on one license application.

When is a separate license required?
Growing areas that are "non-contiguous" must be included on a separate application. Each separate application requires submission of the full $100.00 application fee.

Maine Honey Production Reportedly Up 25 Percent

Maine Honey Production Reportedly Up 25 Percent

The number of licensed beekeepers has almost tripled in the last decade and registered hive counts have jumped from 5,000 to nearly 10,000

AUGUSTA – USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) today reported that Maine honey production increased 25 percent in 2015. Maine state officials welcomed the news, while adding that the number of licensed beekeepers has almost tripled in the last decade and registered hive counts have jumped from 5,000 to more than 10,000. Despite a harsh winter in 2015, favorable weather conditions resulted in the increase in honey production.  

“The number of licensed beekeepers in Maine has almost tripled in the last decade and registered hive counts have jumped from 5,000 to nearly 10,000,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “That, coupled with the news that honey production was up 25 percent last year, is yet another sign that Maine agriculture continues to make progress toward the goal of becoming the breadbasket of New England.”

“Maine Maple Sunday is this weekend, but with the transition to a new season, it is also important to note that Maine produces another all natural sweetener, honey,” said Commissioner Walt Whitcomb. “Maine has taken a number of steps to promote growth in natural resource products and support small entrepreneurs, including beekeepers. Regarding production of honey, we are also pursuing strategies to protect pollinators, who are also vitally important to fruit and vegetable production. Last year, the DACF unveiled a Pollinator Protection Plan designed to reduce risks to pollinators in the state.”  

According to the records of State Apiarist Tony Jadczak, 975 resident beekeepers registered 9,789 hives in 2015 and 76,058 hives entered the state for crop pollination down from 83,00 in 2014. The increase in hobby beekeepers have contributed to the number of licensed beekeepers and the increase in honey production.

Maine Honey Statistics reported by NASS:

Honey production in 2015 from Maine producers with five or more colonies totaled 470 thousand pounds, up 25 percent from 2014, according to Gary Keough, State Statistician of the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, New England Field Office. There were 10 thousand colonies producing honey in 2015, up 25 percent from 2014. Yield per colony averaged 47 pounds, unchanged from 2014. Honey prices increased during 2015 to 551 cents per pound, up 10 percent from 499 cents per pound in 2014. Producer honey stocks were 47 thousand pounds on December 15, 2015, up 15 percent from a year earlier.

NASS provides accurate, timely, and useful statistics in service to U.S. agriculture. The Honey Production report and all other NASS reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov

Contact: Gary Keough: (603) 224-9639

For more information about the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, go to: www.maine.gov/dacf

WATCH FOR TICKS TO PREVENT LYME DISEASE

 

Watch for Ticks to Prevent Lyme Disease

Spring is here, so it’s time to think about the outdoors and proper protection against ticks. Maine had 1,171 cases of Lyme disease reported in 2015. May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and we want to remind you the importance of daily tick checks and encourage the “tick watch” prevention strategy.

Ticks are primarily active in warmer months.  Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is caused by a bite from an infected deer tick (Ixodes scapularis).  In Maine, Lyme disease is most common in adults 65 and over and children between the ages of 5 and 15, but anyone can get the disease.  Individuals who work or play outside are more likely to be exposed to ticks. The most common and visible symptom of Lyme disease is a red bulls-eye rash that grows and appears within 3-30 days of exposure.  Other symptoms may include fevers, and joint or muscle pain.

Lyme disease is treatable and most individuals recover completely with a proper drugs. However, the easiest way to avoid the disease is prevention, using “No Ticks 4 ME”:

1)      Use caution in tick infested areas
2)      Wear protective clothing
3)      Use an EPA approved repellant
4)      Perform daily tick checks after any outdoor activity

A tick must be attached for a minimum of 24 hours before the infection can be passed on, further stressing the need for prompt and proper tick removal. If you are bitten by a tick, or work in a known tick habitat, watch for symptoms for up to 30 days, and call a healthcare provider if symptoms develop.

Deer ticks can transmit not only Lyme disease, but also two other tick-borne infections that are present in Maine: anaplasmosis and babesiosis. Babesiosis cases increased in 2015 and cases of Anaplasmosis remained steady.  The majority of tick-borne illnesses occur during the summer months when ticks and humans are active outdoors.

Remember that the deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) is the only tick that can transmit Lyme disease, but there are other species of ticks throughout the state. Tick identification references are available to order online at Maine CDC’s website. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Tick ID Lab offers free identification services and educational resources.

Additional information:

• Maine CDC has Lyme disease information available on our website at http://www.maine.gov/lyme   
• Lyme disease data is available through the Maine Tracking Network at http://www.maine.gov/lyme under Epidemiology Information on the left hand side of the page.
• University of Maine Cooperative Extension Tick ID Lab submission instructions can be found at http://extension.umaine.edu/ipm/tickid/
• To continue getting Lyme updates throughout May please like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MaineCDC

STUDENTS interested in Agriculture and Forestry Programs, Scholarship Money Available!!!

Rural Rehabilitation Scholarship grants available

Since 2012, the Department has awarded $39,000 in scholarships to students pursuing secondary education in an agriculture or natural resource related field

AUGUSTA – The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) is reminding students pursuing secondary education in agriculture or a natural resource related field that scholarship grants are available through the DACF’s Rural Rehabilitation Fund. The deadline for applications this year is March 1, 2016.

Scholarship Details:

• The applicant must reside in the State of Maine;
• The applicant must be enrolled, or accepted for enrollment, by a University or College offering an agricultural degree;
• An applicant must demonstrate that an unmet financial need exists that must be overcome to pursue a higher education; and
• The applicant must be enrolled in a full-time course load leading to a two-year, four-year or an advanced degree in agriculture or natural resources.

Since 2012, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry has awarded $39,000 in scholarships to students pursuing secondary education in an agriculture or natural resource related field. These funds are available thanks to interest paid as part of a Rural Rehabilitation Loan Program.

This year’s deadline for applications is March 1, 2016. Applications must be sent to Melissa Jordan: 28 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333 on or before deadline date. 

Application can be found online at: http://www.maine.gov/dacf/ard/grants/Rural%20Rehab%20Scholarship%20Application%20FILLABLE.pdf

Maine Forestry Service Offers Webinar - Ecology and Identification of Common Northeastern Conifers

Are you interested in learning more about Maine's forests and landscapes?
This interesting webinar, offered by the Maine Forestry Service will help you learn about the many varieties of Common Northeastern Conifers (trees that have cones or cone shaped seed pods).
GREAT information for ecology minded people, people interested in furthering their education on Maine woodlots and woodlands.
Be sure to register early, while space is unlimited, a registration ID is required to participate!!

Wednesday January 20, 2016 at 12:00 pm 

Conifer trees are a common feature of woodlots, forests and landscapes.  The value and qualities of trees are determined in part by the type of tree.  Knowing the principles of tree identification will help owners appreciate the value of trees and the types of benefits those trees might provide. This presentation will cover the core principles of tree identification, including how to use twigs, buds, bark, fruit (cones), growth habit, habitat (and even leaves) for identification.  Knowledge of these principles will help participants learn how to identify a wide range of trees.  Several common trees will be used to illustrate the principles. Presented by Dr. Peter Smallidge, Department of Natural Resources, Cornell University.

SAF CFE credits have been requested or have been approved. 

If you have not previously joined a webinar, you should evaluate your connection with a test meeting here http://www.webex.com/test-meeting.html

If you have trouble registering or connecting please contact Cisco WebEx technical support at 1-866-229-3239 (U.S. and Canada Toll-Free; 24/7). 

Instructions:

1. Read all these instructions.
2. You need a personal registration ID to join this month’s webinar.  There is unlimited space for participants, the ID simply provides you the necessary access code.  Obtain your registration ID via:   https://cornell.webex.com/cornell/onstage/g.php?MTID=e6d63bfb75084a897b3ecebc0d920c792 If prompted for a password, use            C0rne11F0rest      (the word “CornellForest” except the o = zero= 0 and L = the number 1; the numbers are in red font).
3. On the webpage where the above link takes you, look for the option to “register” to receive your “registration id” number.  Note this page also includes the option to download resources related to this webinar (if available).
4. Wait for the email that contains your personal “registration id” number (a couple minutes at most usually).
5. Pasted below is an example of the email you will receive after following the preceding steps.
6. As illustrated in my example below, join the webinar via the “click here” button to open into your default web browser (e.g., Internet Explorer or Firefox).  The “click here” button should open into the webinar, or display a page indicating the webinar is not active.  If the webinar is not active, that means the host isn’t connected and you will need to wait until the host connects.  If the page opens into a rather generic “Cisco WebEx” page then your browser may not be compatible with WebEx and you should copy and paste the full link (see example below, it follows “click here”) into an alternate web browser.  Using an alternate web browser usually solves most connection problems.
7. Test the sound capacity of your computer by accessing a website with sound (e.g., video clip on a news website, Youtube, etc.). 
8. As you enter the webinar, you may be asked to test your media player.  If so, you will need to complete that step.
9. As you enter the webinar, you will be given the option to download software; you can bypass that step and enter the webinar directly.  

$250,000 in Agricultural Development Grants Announced by Commissioner Walt Whitcomb

 

AUGUSTA CIVIC CENTER – Commissioner Walt Whitcomb announced eight (8) Agricultural Development Grant Program awards totaling nearly $250,000 at the Maine Agricultural Trades Show today. The projects address needs in the agricultural industry for development of livestock processing; improved utilization and profitability of Maine grown crops; product enhancements for nutrition and/or food safety; and alternative markets or diversification including merchandising, farm stands, rural tours and educational opportunities.

“Maine has the most farms and the greatest diversity of food production in New England,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “The potential to produce and sell Maine products is even greater when you consider Maine’s reputation for quality and the growing interest in locally grown foods. The investments being announced today strengthen Maine agriculture and will help farmers and producers realize their full economic potential.” 

Commissioner Walt Whitcomb highlighted the efforts of the review committee and its careful selection of projects from dozens of competitive applications.

“Selected proposals incorporated one or more of four priorities: development of livestock processing; improved utilization and profitability of Maine grown crops; product enhancements for nutrition and/or food safety; and alternative markets or diversification including merchandising, farm stands, rural tours and educational opportunities,” said Whitcomb. “We congratulate the grantees and look forward to successful implementation of their projects.”

The preliminary selections were chosen by a review committee from 30 qualified proposals submitted in response to a formal Request For Proposals (RFP). Out of the total thirty (30) qualified proposals received and reviewed by a committee in a competitive review process, eight (8) projects have been tentatively identified pending approval by the State of Maine Purchases Division and the successful completion of a State of Maine contract. These projects have been identified as:

• Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (Wiscasset) - Ethnic Produce: Crop Diversification for Maine Farmers to Reach New Markets
• Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine (Orono) - 2016 Wild Blueberry Metro Marketing Program
• Lakeside Family Farm (Newport) - Farm-to-Workplace: Bringing More Maine Food to Maine People
• Bartlettyarns, Inc. (Harmony) - Commercial Wool Baler
• Apple Ridge Farms, Inc. (Appleton) - New Technology Vinegar Acetator
• Aroostook Hops, LLC (Westfield) - Creating a hop pelletizing facility to produce Maine-grown and pelletized hops
• Appleton Creamery (Appleton) - Appleton Cheese Trail
• LaJoie Growers, LLC (Van Buren) - Diversifying Farm Products with Cold Storage Capacity

Agricultural Development Grant Program

In 2014, the Legislature approved Department language that improved access to the Agricultural Development Fund. The Department identified the agricultural industry need for accelerating new market development, adoption of improved technology and promotion of agricultural products produced in Maine.  

The Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry may allocate the grant funds among projects involving market research, market promotion, or a combination of those activities for the purpose of expanding existing markets and developing new markets for agricultural products produced in Maine; or for testing and demonstrating new technologies related to the production, storage or processing of State agricultural products.

It is anticipated that another Agricultural Development Fund RFP will be released in the future.

7th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Derby has been postponed to January 31st

The 75th Annual Maine Agricultural Trades Show starts tomorrow!

Admission to the 3-day event is free and open to the public

AUGUSTA—The 75th Annual Maine Agricultural Trades Show will be held Tuesday, January 12, through Thursday, January 14, 2016, at the Augusta Civic Center. Hosted by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF), the show highlights Maine agriculture and the people involved through demonstrations, presentations and meetings of nearly 40 major agricultural organizations.

There will be over 120 exhibits featuring the newest in agricultural products, equipment and services. One of the state’s largest agricultural exhibitions, the event is expected to draw more than 5,000 people over the course of three days. Admission is free and open to the public.

Governor Paul R. LePage will be on hand Tuesday for the Trades Show opening day, to highlight the economic importance of agriculture to Maine. The Governor will also join Commissioner Walt Whitcomb in publicly recognizing this year’s recipient of the Commissioner’s Distinguished Service Award.

“The 75th Maine Agricultural Trades Show is an opportunity to highlight Maine’s enormous potential to produce and sell even more Maine products and produce jobs,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “Maine has the greatest diversity of food production in New England and the most farms. Maine’s reputation for quality and unique way of life matches the growing interest in locally grown foods that our family farms produce.” 

“The 75th Maine Agricultural Trades Show is as much a showcase for new Maine agricultural opportunities as it is multiple workshops that address the challenges faced by Maine farmers,” said DACF Commissioner Walt Whitcomb. “New features are on display reflecting Maine’s ever growing agricultural activity. Farmer/veteran training and multiple marketing seminars will explore access to local, regional, wholesale, foreign and other farm product connections.”

Topics of Interest to the Press:

• Commissioner’s Luncheon - Governor Paul R. LePage will join Commissioner Whitcomb to present the Commissioner’s Distinguished Service Award. The luncheon will also feature a special guest speaker of national prominence
• Maine Agriculture In The Classroom (MAITC) Teachers of the Year announcement
• $250,000 in Agricultural Development Grants will be Announced
• Beginning Farmer Resource Network workshops for new Maine farmers
• Farmer Veteran Coalition Press Conference  - Maine’s newly chartered Chapter of the national organization will announce a planned expansion of the their efforts to provide farming skills for returning veterans
• Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) presentations and discussions on marketing and growing practices 
• Get Real Get Maine Products Showcase – An indoor farmers market
• Department Overview of Farmers Market Tips and Regulations

Something for Everyone:

This year’s show features several new offerings for attendees in addition to a wide variety of presentations covering diverse topics of interest. New 2016 program highlights also include:

• Market access seminars for Maine food interests entering the world export markets
• Instructions for growing beef production and processing
• A farmers market in the Augusta Civic Center for vendors to show their wares to food buyers
• Dozens of other meetings to advance the output of Maine farms and the return to Maine farmers
• Somerset Auction House Co. Farm Auction to benefit the Maine FFA Association

The show also provides opportunities for growers, conventional and organic, to learn the latest developments in pest management and earn credits required for pesticide license recertification. The Maine Board of Pesticides Control will also be on hand to discuss basic safety training.

This three-day event has something for everyone, the farmer, non-farmer, hobbyist, educator or supplier. Attendees can walk through, observe and learn about how food is harvested and processed. Farmers and producers can see the most up-to-date farm equipment and processing methods and equipment.

Trades Show Floor Hours:

• Tuesday, January 12, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, January 13, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, January 14, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The complete program and schedule are available at: http://www.getrealmaine.com/.

For more information about the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, go to: http://www.maine.gov/dacf

Workshops for Maine’s Beginning Farmers to be held January 13-14 at Ag Trades Show

Are you a new farmer? Are you transitioning to a new agricultural endeavor or planning for farm succession? Do you need help navigating the process of setting up your business or finding out who can help your new farming business succeed? The Beginning Farmer Resource Network (BFRN) of Maine can help!

BFRN – a coalition of Maine agriculture agencies and organizations – will be conducting workshops on various topics for new farmers during the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's 2016 Agricultural Trades Show at the Augusta Civic Center on Jan. 12-14, 2016.

Included in the line-up are presentations on: “Financing Your Farm Business”; “Planning for Farm Succession”; “Farmer Veteran Networking”; “Holistic Management; Beyond the Field Edge”; “Farm Safety”; “Cover Crops and Soil Health”; and many more.

The workshops will be held from 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 13 in the Hancock and Lincoln/Oxford rooms, and from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 14 in the Hancock, Lincoln/Oxford, and Sagadohoc rooms. The Farmer Veteran Coalition of Maine will have programs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 14 in the Somerset Room. In addition, the BFRN networking room, located in the Knox Room, will be open all day Tuesday through Thursday to give farmers an opportunity to have an informal talk with a BFRN representative. The complete schedule, topics, and locations for these workshops can be found in the Agricultural Trades Show program brochure at the BFRN website at http://umaine.edu/beginning-farmer-resource-network/events/ or the Get Real Get Maine website at www.getrealmaine.com.

The Beginning Farmer Resource Network, established in 2012, is a group of federal, state, and local farm service providers who have joined together to assist aspiring and beginning farmers, and farmers interested in farm succession and transfer planning, by providing information and technical assistance on everything from soil health to business planning. BFRN is dedicated to helping the whole farm community – including agriculture, aquaculture, and forestry – succeed, as well as ensuring that agriculture stays prosperous in the future.

The BFRN website at umaine.edu/beginning-farmer-resource-network has resources and assistance available, including topics like “What to Consider First, Financing Your Farm Business,” and “Balancing Farm and Family.” The site also has specific resources for military veterans, health and safety issues, and many other topics. Each area of the site provides resources, publications, and contacts to help you make informed decisions in starting and succeeding in your farm business, and links to all of the agencies and organizations that serve as the leadership council. These resources comprise a “toolbox” of information on important issues and concerns that farmers should think about when starting their business.

Holiday Pet Safety Tips -- Holiday Safety Tips from Maine's State Veterinarian and Animal Welfare Services Director.

12/23/2015 02:28 PM EST

 AUGUSTA - The holiday season is an exciting, active time for Maine families. The same is true for household pets. To avoid spending stressful time with your veterinarian, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's State Veterinarian and Director of Animal Welfare are urging Mainers to consider some helpful pet safety tips.

"Healthy pets make happy owners. We want all Mainers and their pets to have a positive experience this holiday season," said Maine State Veterinarian, Dr. Michele Walsh. "A little bit of forethought can go a long way toward avoiding stressful, expensive, possibly fatal trips to a veterinarian. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and other organizations offer tips on how to help ensure that your pets make it through the holidays safely."

 

 In addition to current pets, families often consider obtaining a new pet during the holiday season. Animal Welfare Director Liam Hughes recommends doing some basic research ahead of time, considering that pets require a long-term commitment.

 

 "Pets owners need to be ready for a long-term emotional and financial commitment," said Hughes. "Before adopting or purchasing a new pet, people should consider a number of things, including: does my/our lifestyle allow time for a pet; what type of pet; and what are the costs associated with a pet? If you are looking for a pet in Maine, only look for animal shelters, pet stores, or breeders that are licensed by the state. Don't buy animals on the side of the road, or in a parking lot and beware of online sales because you might not get what was advertised."

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) website (https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/holidays.aspx) offers the following Holiday Pet Safety tips:

**Food**

 

 Keep people food away from pets. If you want to share holiday treats with your pets, make or buy treats formulated just for them. The following people foods are especially hazardous for pets:

- Chocolate is an essential part of the holidays for many people, but it is toxic to dogs and cats. Although the toxicity can vary based on the type of chocolate, the size of your pet, and the amount they ate, it's safer to consider all chocolate off limits for pets. - Other sweets and baked goods also should be kept out of reach. Not only are they often too rich for pets; an artificial sweetener often found in baked goods, candy and chewing gum, xylitol, has been linked to liver failure and death in dogs. - Turkey and turkey skin - sometimes even in small amounts - can cause a life-threatening condition in pets known as pancreatitis. - Table scraps - including gravy and meat fat -also should be kept away from pets. Many foods that are healthy for people are poisonous to pets, including onions, raisins and grapes. During the holidays, when our own diets tend toward extra-rich foods, table scraps can be especially fattening and hard for animals to digest and can cause pancreatitis. - Yeast dough can cause problems for pets, including painful gas and potentially dangerous bloating.

Quick action can save lives. If you believe your pet has been poisoned or eaten something it shouldn't have, call your veterinarian or local veterinary emergency clinic immediately. You may also want to call the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline: 1-888-426-4435. Signs of pet distress include: sudden changes in behavior, depression, pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.

**Decorating**

 

 

Greenery, lights and Christmas trees can make the holidays festive, but they also pose risky temptations for our pets.

 

 -Christmas trees can tip over if pets climb on them or try to play with the lights and ornaments. Consider tying your tree to the ceiling or a doorframe using fishing line to secure it. - Ornaments can cause hazards for pets. Broken ornaments can cause injuries, and ingested ornaments can cause intestinal blockage or even toxicity. Keep any homemade ornaments, particularly those made from salt-dough or other food-based materials, out of reach of pets. -Tinsel and other holiday decorations also can be tempting for pets to eat. Consuming them can cause intestinal blockages, sometimes requiring surgery. Breakable ornaments or decorations can cause injuries. -Flowers and festive plants can result in an emergency veterinary visit if your pet gets hold of them. Amaryllis, mistletoe, balsam, pine, cedar, and holly are among the common holiday plants that can be dangerous and even poisonous to pets who decide to eat them. Poinsettias can be troublesome as well. The ASPCA offers lists of plants that are toxic to dogs and cats. -Candles are attractive to pets as well as people. Never leave a pet alone in an area with a lit candle; it could result in a fire. -Potpourris should be kept out of reach of inquisitive pets. Liquid potpourris pose risks because they contain essential oils and cationic detergents that can severely damage your pet's mouth, eyes and skin. Solid potpourris could cause problems if eaten.

 **Hosting Parties and Visitors**

 Visitors can upset pets, as can the noise and excitement of holiday parties. Even pets that aren't normally shy may become nervous in the hubbub that can accompany a holiday gathering. The following tips will reduce emotional stress on your pet and protect your guests from possible injury.

-All pets should have access to a comfortable, quiet place inside if they want to retreat. Make sure your pet has a room or crate somewhere away from the commotion, where your guests won't follow, that it can go to anytime it wants to get away. - Inform your guests ahead of time that you have pets or if other guests may be bringing pets to your house. Guests with allergies or compromised immune systems (due to pregnancy, disease, or medications/ treatments that suppress the immune system) need to be aware of the pets (especially exotic pets) in your home so they can take any needed precautions to protect themselves. - Guests with pets? If guests ask to bring their own pets and you don't know how the pets will get along, you should either politely decline their request or plan to spend some time acclimating the pets to each other, supervising their interactions, monitoring for signs of a problem, and taking action to avoid injuries to pets or people. - Pets that are nervous around visitors should be put it in another room or a crate with a favorite toy. If your pet is particularly upset by houseguests, talk to your veterinarian about possible solutions to this common problem. - Exotic pets make some people uncomfortable and may themselves be more easily stressed by gatherings. Keep exotic pets safely away from the hubbub of the holidays. - Watch the exits. Even if your pets are comfortable around guests, make sure you watch them closely, especially when people are entering or leaving your home. While you're welcoming hungry guests and collecting coats, a four-legged family member may make a break for it out the door and become lost. - Identification tags and microchips reunite families. Make sure your pet has proper identification with your current contact information - particularly a microchip with up-to-date, registered information. That way, if they do sneak out, they're more likely to be returned to you. If your pet isn't already microchipped, talk to your veterinarian about the benefits of this simple procedure. - Clear the food from your table, counters and serving areas when you are done using them - and make sure the trash gets put where your pet can't reach it. A turkey or chicken carcass or other large quantities of meat sitting out on the carving table, or left in a trash container that is easily opened, could be deadly to your family pet. Dispose of carcasses and bones - and anything used to wrap or tie the meat, such as strings, bags and packaging - in a covered, tightly secured trash bag placed in a closed trash container outdoors (or behind a closed, locked door). - Trash also should be cleared away where pets can't reach it - especially sparkly ribbon and other packaging or decorative items that could be tempting for your pet to play with or consume.

**When You Leave the House**

- Unplug decorations while you're not around. Cats, dogs and other pets are often tempted to chew electrical cords. - Take out the trash to make sure your pets can't get to it, especially if it contains any food or food scraps.

**Ways that you can support the

Maine Animal Welfare Program can be found at:**
http://www.maine.gov/dacf/ahw/animal_welfare/index.shtml

 

 

 

For more information about the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, go to: http://www.maine.gov/dacf

 

 

Maine State Parks to Offer FIRST DAY HIKES on January 1, 2016. Guided Hikes FREE to All!!!

Maine State Parks,  along with other state parks around the country, are celebrating the New Year by offering 4 guided hikes on January 1, 2016.

Admission to First Day Hike attendees is free. 

Lily Bay State Park, Beaver Cove – 12 noon to 3:30 p.m.  Join us for a leisurely 3.5 mile hike through the woods and near the shoreline of majestic Moosehead Lake. We'll conclude the hike with a bonfire and hot beverages. Bring your own snacks. Wear warm clothes and sturdy boots or snowshoes. Meet at the entry booth parking lot. FMI: 695-2700

Popham Beach State Park, Phippsburg - 10:00 a.m. – An easy 1-mile hike on the Fox Island tombolo investigating tidal pools. Wear warm clothes and sturdy footwear. Meet at the side parking lot. FMI: 389-1335

Sebago Lake State Park, Casco - 10:00 a.m. – Join us for a leisurely 1.5 mile woodlands hike to investigate the wonders of the season. Snacks will be provided. Wear warm clothes and sturdy footwear. Meet at the day use area boat launch. FMI: 693-6231

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport - 2:00 p.m. – Join us for a leisurely 0.3 mile guided walk to enjoy 'Winter in the Woods' and learn how plants and animals survive the cold winter months. Wear warm clothes and sturdy footwear. Plan on one hour; no dogs please. Meet at the picnic shelter by the second parking lot. FMI: 865-4465

Maine Forest Service Christmas Tree Care and Safety Tips for Proper Display, Care and Disposal.....

12/16/2015 03:27 PM EST

*It is not too late to grace the family living room with a Maine grown Christmas tree*

AUGUSTA - Governor Paul R. LePage and the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) are again urging holiday shoppers to purchase natural Christmas trees locally. Maine-grown Christmas trees are freshly cut, support local tree farms and most importantly, visiting a Maine "Choose and Cut" Christmas tree operation can be a memorable family experience. The DACF's Maine Forest Service offers tree purchasing, care and safety tips.

"The Christmas season is an important time to give thanks for the many blessings we are given and show appreciation for the contributions of others," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Nothing says Maine more than a locally grown fir tree that graces a family living room. The Maine people are truly fortunate to call this state home and to create products enjoyed beyond our borders."

Commissioner Walt Whitcomb reflected on the unique experience that tree buyers can have harvesting their own tree from a Maine family tree farm. "Maine tree growers grow a product that symbolizes the Maine outdoors and the Christmas holiday," said Whitcomb. You can support local businesses by buying a Maine Christmas tree. You can also create a new family memory from the shared experience of harvesting a tree from a Maine family tree farm."

**Maine Christmas Trees:**

Naturally grown Christmas trees are also much less harmful to the environment than artificial Christmas trees. Considered a "renewable resource," Maine Christmas trees provide fresh air, wildlife habitat and scenery while they are grown. After the holidays, most Christmas trees are returned to the forest where they can provide wildlife cover, reduce erosion and add nutrients to the soil.

**Here are some tips for purchasing fresh cut Maine Christmas trees:**

- Always ask the seller "where and when" the Christmas trees were cut. In general, the closer the location and the most recent shipment, the better.

- Don't wait until the last minute to purchase your Maine Christmas tree. In the past few years, there have been shortages of Maine-grown Christmas trees.

- Check to make sure the Christmas tree is fresh. The needles of a freshly harvested balsam fir tree should bend about 30 - 40 degrees before breaking.

**Some information on transporting and storing a Christmas tree:**

- Make sure the Christmas tree is tied securely to your vehicle and that the butt end is facing forward.

- Avoid transporting the tree when the roads are wet. The spray from road can shorten the life of your tree and dull the color. If necessary, wrap the tree in a tarp.

- Once you transport the tree home, try to set it up inside soon. If you can't, make sure you store it outside in a cool, dark location out of the sun and wind. A garage is a good place.

**Safety tips for setting up the tree at home:**

- Before bringing the tree inside to display, cut off at least 2" of the butt end. This will help the tree stay moist and last longer.

- Make sure you have the correct tree stand for the size tree you have purchased. For most trees, the stand should hold at least a gallon of water.

- Keep the tree watered, especially the first few days after it is set up. There are inexpensive devices that can be purchased that help maintain a constant water level in the stand.

**Proper disposal of your Christmas tree:**

- Completely remove all plastic and metal items from the tree.

- Do not burn the tree in your fireplace or woodstove. If all other recycling options are not practical, check with your local fire department, get a burn permit and burn it outdoors when there is snow on the ground.

- Recycle your tree at your local transfer station. If they don't accept trees, consider leaving the tree in the woods (landowner permission is required) or near your birdfeeder to provide cover for songbirds.

- If possible, chip the tree and use the chips as mulch.