Value-Added Grains Opportunity
For farmers who are looking to boost profitability and sustainability, the value-added grains market presents real opportunity. Value-added grains include wheat, oats, barley, rye and such specialty grains as OP and heirloom corn, the ancient wheats einkorn, emmer, and spelt, flax, buckwheat, and even hemp. In the Northeast, there is a strong and unmet demand for local production of these grains, all of which have high profit potential. A workshop on these grains will be held Saturday, March 14, from 1 pm–3 pm, at the Guilford Town Hall (223 Marble Rd, Guilford, NY 13780).
The program will provide detailed information on which crops and varieties are in demand, sourcing of seed and equipment, crop management from planting through storage, on-farm grain-processing options to boost profit, and accessing wholesale and retail markets. Farmers can also sign up for a project funded by a Chobani Community Impact grant that provides for assistance on both production and marketing and for access to a mobile grain-processing unit that includes a seed cleaner, dehuller, oat roller, and mill.
Dr. Elizabeth Dyck, coordinator the Organic Growers’ Research and Information-Sharing Network (OGRIN) and a specialist in value-added grain production and marketing, will lead the discussion. There will also be a chance to taste grains and grain products produced in our region.
The event is free and open to the public. For more information or to register for the event, please contact Elizabeth at 607-895-6913 or edyck@ogrin.org.
