It is a business, it is a livelihood We're showing the local tourists and those from out of state that farming has changed and they need to change their look on what a farmer does. It ranges from experiences in agriculture to selling agricultural products directly to the consumer. Some variations: Farms or agricultural sites that accept visitors and promote themselves as a destination to generate extra income. Agritourism is a new buzzword in the tourism business that refers to the melding...

Keeping livestock secure from the purposeful spreading of devastating diseases, crop supports for vegetable farmers and permanent repeal of the inheritance tax were also on farmers' minds. There's a sense of complacency out there because we've been able to deal with the BSE ("mad cow" disease) without a shock to our market," King said. He said that the success of ethanol and biodiesel manufacturing depends on keeping the livestock industry healthy and nearby, since it provides a feed...

Initially, CP-38 will affect up to 500,000 acres, with those acres allocated to states based upon cropland acreage in each state. Individual states are expected to receive several thousand acres upwards to nearly 30,000 acres. A new state-specific wildlife conservation practice, CP-38 will give states the flexibility to design conservation programs to fit their own specific wildlife needs. Commonly referred to as Bobwhite Buffers, CP-33 is a conservation practice targeted at improving...

Matt Conver, operator of Cherry Grove Organic Farm, said while 70 to 80 percent of his income is derived through sales at the Summit Community Farmers Market, he operates a community supported agriculture (CSA) facility with 400 families who buy shares of the crops. The department had to endure a rigorous process to receive its accreditation, which allows the department to certify crops, wild crops, livestock and handling operations to the National Organic Standards, which can be found at...

A prudent dessert choice for anyone watching their waistline, the only downside is the cake requires separating and whipping egg whites until they form peaks. Shopping tips: Superfine sugar is available in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. The puffy, cloud-like confection is low in calories and fat and contains absolutely no cholesterol. Finer than granulated sugar, it dissolves quickly, a trait that makes it perfect for meringues. True, the whipping can be a bit of a chore, but the...