Extension Service Site Publications

• (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.
• (2024) OSU Extension Small Farms Program among nation’s best The program works toward improving small-farm horticultural production and small-scale livestock, poultry and forage production.
• (2017) Breaking new ground: farmer perspectives on organic transition This publication explains the positive affects of organic farming, while also presenting farmer perspectives about the transition as well.
• (2017) Because they joined the grange Summary
  
  Originally a graduate research paper produced in 1981, the report contains brief histories, often oral, of the six grange halls of Benton County, Oregon collected over 30 years ago. Included are photographs and other resources such as original drawings. The report is a digital copy of the original paper and has been reproduced as a response to present day efforts by young farmers to revitalize grange halls. A preface puts the report in current context. It is published by the Oregon State University Small Farms Program.
• (2007) Understanding the Link Between Farmers' Market Size and Management Organization This report examines the relationship between the size of individual farmers' markets and the set of management tools used by farmers' markets. Farmers' markets will benefit from using the specific set of management tools and resources appropriate for the size of the market.
• (2006) When Things Don't Work: Some Insights into Why Farmers' Markets Close Reports on research conducted with farmers markets in Oregon. Explores how market resources influence success and failure, gives insights into markets that fail, and suggests other concerns related to market failure. Presents data that characterize markets in decline. Includes a summary, identification of areas of risk, and recommendations.
• (2008) Tools for Rapid Market Assessments Most farmers' markets lack information to make effective changes and improvements. Tools for Rapid Market Assessments provides three simple, low-cost methods to address the information gap.
• (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.
• (2019) Managing Small-Acreage Horse Farms in Western Oregon and Western Washington Horses, grass, manure, soil and water are all interconnected. How you manage one affects the others. Following these seven steps can make your horse farm safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Learn more about horse grazing habits, pasture rotation, weed control, manure management, buffer strips, rain gutters and well water protection.
• (2007) Managing Small-Acreage Horse Farms in Central and Eastern Oregon This publication presents a system for managing horses, pastures, and manure that will make your farm safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. It is intended for horse farms from 1 to 10 acres in the high dry regions of eastern and central Oregon.
• (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