Extension Service Site Publications

• (2024) Understanding and living with climate grief and climate stress for farmers and ranchers Farmers and ranchers face unique mental health challenges due to climate change, as they experience direct impacts from severe weather and environmental shifts. These individuals encounter "climate grief," a sense of loss tied to environmental changes, and "climate stress," which arises from the increasing unpredictability of their livelihoods. Coping with these emotions involves acknowledging the mental strain, seeking support, building resilience and taking proactive steps to adapt to climate realities.
• (2024) Climate Stress and Grief: Building Resilience in Farmers and Ranchers A growing body of literature documents the mental health impacts of climate change on the general population, but with little focus on food producers that traditionally are less likely to seek out mental health support.
• (2012) Enhancing organic agriculture in Oregon: Research, education and policy A look at the research, education and policy needs of Oregon’s organic farming sector from several perspectives.
• (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!
• (2022) ‘Agripeneurs’ course creates regional market for local seed producers The project team offered a training course, “Growing Seed Agripreneurs,” at the OSU Southern Oregon Research and Extension Center (SOREC) and conducted research on the barriers and challenges to creating a regional market for local seed producers.
• (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.
  
• (2020) Is starting a farm stand right for you? Discover if starting a farm stand is right for you. Learn about land-use permits, marketing plans and road signs. Plus, find out why a web presence is key to attracting customers!
• (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