MDA’s annual Greenbook highlights sustainable innovations in agriculture

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has just released its 2013 edition of the Greenbook, highlighting the results of innovative projects that test new approaches to raising crops and livestock in Minnesota. The projects are funded by the MDA’s Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant Program, with the aim of promoting environmental stewardship and conservation of resources.

MDA Commissioner Dave Frederickson says the Greenbook is a valuable resource for farmers, researchers, and others seeking to improve profitability and quality of life on farms and in rural areas.

“The Greenbook provides farmers with insights into the successes and occasionally the failures of hundreds of new projects,” says Frederickson. “It enables them to evaluate what sustainable farming systems may work for them and as a result they can more quickly adopt alternative practices.”

Editor Jean Ciborowski says the new edition features nine sustainable agriculture projects in three major topic areas: cropping systems and soil fertility; fruits and vegetables; and livestock.

To view the Greenbook 2013 go to the MDA’s web site: http://www.mda.state.mn.us/greenbook or call 651-201-6012 to request a free copy.

Look for the 2014 Sustainable Agriculture Grant Application on the MDA website in mid-September at www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/grants.aspx.