CONSERVATION CORNER
A weekly blog for all things conservation
 By: Miranda Neville, Agricultural Resource Specialist, BCCD
In a fast-paced world that demands constant change with bigger-is-better ideals, many still look at small, conventional, dairy farming as an antiquated way of life. Often referred to as “stubborn farmers”, a term I’ve uttered myself more often than I care to admit…sorry husband, the advancement of farming practices has proven just the opposite. Ironically, if you were to sit down with those “stubborn farmers” you could learn so much about the growth of the industry and how they’ve had to evaluate, adapt, and adjust to so many new pressures. The origin of the family farm was to provide a stable life for a family while supplying surrounding communities with farm fresh milk and locally grown produce. A simpler time. As communities got bigger, so did the demand on the farmer. Not only the demands, but more astringent regulatory requirements and increased skepticism from the general public. Though farmers are getting paid significantly less for their products, operating costs are at an all-time high and many cannot sustain. Dairy farmers are given two options: change to meet demands or sell the farm, the foundation of their family.
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 By: Jonathan VanNoy, Natural Resource Specialist, BCCD Timber harvesting is one activity that we get numerous comments and questions about here at the Bradford County Conservation District (BCCD). Let’s look at some of the regulations surrounding logging.  Crab apple seedlings planted for deer management featuring Sadie the Border Collie! By: Tori Welliver, Dirt Gravel & Low Volume Roads Specialist
While the best time to plant a tree is during our first seedling sale 50 years ago, the second-best time is today! Planting trees is an investment in the future and locals have been making that investment through the conservation district’s annual sale for 50 years. Each winter when the “green papers” start showing up at local store fronts, we know that spring is drawing near.  By: Kevin Brown, Ag. Resource Specialist
Every year at this time, we have a Soil Health Conference at the Wysox Fire Hall. It is THE place to be if you want to really be on the cutting edge of what is going on in soil health (Gardeners are welcome too. It is all the same soil). We talk about it all year long, but this is IT! This IS the place to be. If you don’t believe me, look at past presenters- Gabe Brown, Dave Brandt, Ray Archuleta, Russ Wilson, and the list goes on. Look for them on our web page, we have recorded some of the past presentations. Look for them on YouTube. They are the pioneers of this movement and we have had them right here in our own backyard. And, even though they are nationally renowned, we have had them here for only a $15 or $20 admission charge. This year’s group is leading the way and they are doing things that most people have never heard of, and making it work. They are doing things that outsiders would think just aren’t possible. Yet, not only are they doing it, they are getting more yield with less inputs. It is a win for everyone concerned (their wallet, our nutrition, the environment, etc.). This year’s talent will be every bit as good as past years. Maybe better. |
AuthorsVarious staff at the Bradford County Conservation District Archives
March 2025
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