Extension Service Site Publications

• (2022) How Much Can I Charge for My Farm Products? Determining the “right” pricing for your products can be challenging for new and experienced farmers and ranchers. This publication outlines some key considerations that should affect what you charge.
• (2022) Nontimber Forest Products for Small Woodland Owners: Reishi Mushroom Growing Guide Reishi mushrooms are prized for stress-fighting properties. This in-demand crop grows naturally in Oregon forests, and you can grow them yourself with a fruiting block or inoculated logs. Learn how!
• (2020) Introduction to Pasture and Grazing Management in Western Oregon Farmers and ranchers new to pasture management in the Pacific Northwest can learn the basics of establishing and maintaining a productive pasture for their livestock.
• (2013) Helping small farmers in southern Oregon Small farms have sprouted across southwestern Oregon like the seeds they plant. The growth comes as interest in local foods increases, retirees buy small acreages, and ambitious Generation Xers and Yers look for back-to-the-land vocations.
  
  Read the full story here: http://oregonprogress.oregonstate.edu/winter-2014/sorec/planting-seed-new-farmers
  
  Oregon's Agricultural Progress Magazine
  on iPads: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/oregons-agricultural-progress/id785777244?ls=1&mt=8
  on Android Tablets: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=edu.oregonstate.eescpub
  on the Web: http://oregonprogress.oregonstate.edu/winter-2014
• (2020) Is Starting a Farm Stand Right for You? Learn what's needed to start a farm stand business on your farm, from how to get land-use permits to make sure your farm stand is legal, to the details of the business, like developing a marketing plan and making road signs to draw customers to your stand. There are also some thoughts on the importance of having a web presence to help keep the customers coming.
• (2016) An introduction to whole farm systems design Whole farm systems are a departure from American industrial agriculture. Whole farming takes into consideration a farming pattern that is based on diversity — biological, economical and social. Here's a guide.
• (2010) A step-by-step guide to saving seeds Saving the seeds of fruits, vegetables and flowers is an excellent way to engage in the worldwide movement to preserve some of the older “heirloom” varieties of seed. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
• (2013) Creating Farmer Networks: A Toolkit for Promoting Vibrant Farm Communities A toolkit for farmers, Extension agents, community organizers, and other agricultural professionals interested in starting and maintaining a successful farmer network. The publication is divided into two sections: an instruction guide (with information on establishing, promoting and managing a farmer network) and a toolbox (with tips, examples, case studies, and worksheets).
• (2012) Enhancing Organic Agriculture in Oregon: Research, Education, and Policy This report combines different perspectives--farmers, researchers, and food system stakeholders across statewide and sub-regional scales--to shed light on what is needed to enhance organic agriculture in Oregon. Some recommendations are very specific, and others are classic challenges that need ongoing effort.
• (2021) What Can I Do with My Small Farm? Selecting an Enterprise for Small Acreages Covers the many factors involved in making decisions related to the use of small-farm property. Discusses the small farm as a hobby, an agricultural tax deferral, and a family income. Explains how to match crop choices to the farm's physical resources, such as soil type, irrigation potential, and climate, and how to choose a production technique, select traditional or specialty crops, and market crops. Emphasizes the importance of considering the family's financial resources, credit options, strengths, and goals. Includes lists of additional resources.
  
  Growing Farms Online Course: Learn how to start a successful sustainable small farm.
  Developed by OSU Small Farms Program faculty and other farm management experts, you will learn the essentials of designing and growing your own thriving farm business. And the entire program is available online, so you can complete it on your time, around your schedule. Turn your dream of owning and operating a small farm or ranch into a successful reality with this popular program!
  Enroll now