I did find a use for all that snow – went snowshoeing for the first time near Johnstown last weekend.  Good thing there was lots because I learned 1) I can fall down in any direction – including face first and 2) I learned how to get up again on snowshoes.  Otherwise, I would have had to wait until it all melted and who would write these updates?

While we wait for the snow to melt enough to get in the fields (it’s getting close!), here are some alternative crops to consider (You need more work, right?  Maybe more income?)

Learn about hop pests in Michigan (and we in NYS have the same ones) including how to scout and manage against them. This  Hop IPM  webinar also discusses potential beneficial insects and how to support them.  (Clicking above takes you to a survey page which, when completed, takes you to the webinar).

Is forest production of mushrooms an option for you? Go to Camp Mushroom  this April (I wonder if you get to boondoggle slides for your handlenses?  Who remembers doing that at camp?)

Another thing to keep track of – the growing degree days (GDD) at your farm.  The application window for white pine weevil – one of our earliest flyers – is 7-58 GDD.  No GDD accumulated yet in Ithaca but we are starting to see a few in the warmest parts of the state.

Have a great week!