Loving Acres Farmstead Produce & Flowers Application

Application Date:

City: Bonnerdale, AR

Please briefly tell us why you are applying to be part of the Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) program:
Becoming "Certified Naturally Grown" is a significant step for us as a small-scale farm dedicated to sustainable and natural farming practices. This certification aligns with our core values of stewardship and community service by providing a clear, transparent way to communicate our commitment to growing food that is good for both people and the planet. First and foremost, the CNG label assures consumers that the produce we offer is grown without synthetic chemicals or GMOs. It's proof that we adhere to strict guidelines that preserve soil health, respect the surrounding ecosystem, and prioritize the well-being of consumers. This is particularly important for individuals who are conscientious about the sources of their food and who wish to support farming methods that don't rely on industrial agricultural inputs. Secondly, CNG certification fosters a sense of trust within the community. It serves as a symbol of the hard work and integrity that go into our farming practices. Consumers can be confident that they are not only receiving high-quality, nutritious produce but also supporting a local business that shares their values and contributes to the local economy. The peer-review aspect of the CNG certification process also resonates with our desire to build community and work collaboratively with other like-minded farmers. It creates a network of support and shared knowledge, which is invaluable for continual improvement and innovation in sustainable agriculture. Lastly, achieving CNG certification aligns with our mission to serve others in love. By providing food that is grown with care for both people and the environment, we are contributing to a healthier community and a more sustainable world. It's a tangible way to express our dedication to nourishing our neighbors with food that is grown consciously and ethically. In summary, becoming Certified Naturally Grown is more than just a label; it is a testament to our commitment to responsible farming, the health of our community, and the integrity of the food that we grow. It strengthens the bond between our farm and the community we serve, ensuring that we can continue to provide healthy, local produce to those who value and support sustainable agricultural practices.

Are you currently third-party-certified for your produce operation by any other organization (Organic, Biodynamic, etc.)?
No
If yes, please note which certification and agency:

Have you held any certification/s in the past that you don't currently hold?  No
Note which agencies and dates:

Have you ever been denied certification? No
If yes, please note which agencies, and reasons for denial:

How long have you been growing and selling your products?
We raised crops for 5 consecutive years (rows and high tunnels) in western KY prior to moving here.
How did you learn to farm? What has prepared you to farm successfully according to CNG standards?
I grew up on a farm in KY. When we bought our first property, we began growing our own food then scaled it up. We are a "back to the garden of eden" type of family and value natural practices. Our farm is a reflection of who we are.
Total number of acres you want listed as CNG: 3
Do you have other acreage in "Conventional" Agricultural Systems? No
How many acres are in conventional agriculture?
List what you are growing conventionally and explain why these crops are excluded from certification.

General Listed Acreage Breakdown

Of the acreage that you want listed as CNG, list the number of acres you have in each crop category.

Vegetables: 2
Fruit: 1
Cut Flowers:
Hay:
Grains:
Dry Beans:
Sugarbush:
Other Acreage:

Specify other items:

Specify other primary crop:
Specify any other items you'd like listed as CNG: N/A
List any crops you grow that will not be listed as CNG, and explain why you’re not seeking to certify them.
N/A

Specify other markets:

Farmland Management & Practices

Describe how you prepare your ground for planting.
Preparing the ground for planting within Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) guidelines involves several steps that focus on maintaining soil health and promoting biodiversity without the use of synthetic chemicals or GMOs. Using a 2 wheel BCS tractor with a rotary plow and flail mower can efficiently support these sustainable practices. 1. Soil Testing: Before beginning any ground preparation, I would conduct a soil test to understand the nutrient levels and pH balance. This allows me to make informed decisions about any natural amendments needed to optimize soil health. 2. Cover Cropping: I would plant a cover crop in the off-season to protect and enrich the soil. Cover crops such as clover, vetch, or rye can add organic matter, prevent erosion, suppress weeds, and fix nitrogen in the soil. 3. Mowing the Cover Crop: As the cover crop reaches maturity, I would use the BCS tractor with the flail mower attachment to cut it down. This provides a green manure that can decompose in the soil, adding nutrients and improving soil structure. 4. Rotary Plowing: After the cover crop has been mowed, I would attach the rotary plow to the BCS tractor. I'd use it to turn the soil and incorporate the green manure into the ground, while also shaping beds if needed. This action aerates the soil and helps to speed up the decomposition of the organic matter. 5. Adding Amendments: Based on the soil test results, I could add natural soil amendments such as compost, rock phosphate, or green sand to provide necessary nutrients. These would be spread over the plowed area and can be worked into the soil with the rotary plow or by hand. 6. Final Preparation: To create a fine seedbed, I may use the BCS tractor with a harrow or other appropriate attachment to refine the soil texture and level the planting area. This ensures good soil-to-seed contact, which is crucial for germination and root development. 7. Mulching: To suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture, I would apply natural mulches like straw or shredded leaves around the plants after seeding or transplanting. This also helps to minimize soil erosion and temperature fluctuations. Throughout the entire process, I would avoid compacting the soil by minimizing foot traffic and machinery use on the beds. A key component of the CNG approach is to enhance the vitality and biological activity of the soil, thereby creating a sustainable foundation for plant growth and resilience.
Do you use Cover Crops? Yes
List the cover crop species you use:
Clover, Rye, Oat
Do you use Compost? Yes

Describe your on-farm composting process.

Describe how you verify with your supplier that their compost is properly composted and does not contain prohibited ingredients like biosolids. To verify that the compost supplied meets Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) standards and does not contain prohibited ingredients such as biosolids, I would take the following steps: 1. **Supplier Research**: Before purchasing, I would research suppliers to find those who specialize in organic or natural compost and have a good reputation within the sustainable farming community. 2. **Ask for Documentation**: I would request detailed information on the composting process from the supplier. This should include the origin of the materials, the composting methods used, and any certifications they may hold (such as OMRI-listed or similar). 3. **Ingredient Transparency**: I would ask for a full list of ingredients used in the compost. The supplier should guarantee that no biosolids or other prohibited materials have been included. A clear statement or an ingredient label that outlines all components should be provided. 4. **Certification Inquiry**: If the supplier is certified by a recognized organic or natural program, I would request to see their certification documents. This provides assurance that their practices have been reviewed and approved by an authoritative third party. 5. **Visit the Facility**: Whenever possible, I would visit the composting facility in person to observe their processes. This allows for a direct understanding of their operation and the chance to ask questions about their composting methods and ingredient sourcing. 6. **Temperature Records**: Proper composting requires maintaining certain temperatures for a specific period to ensure pathogens are destroyed. I would ask for records that show their compost has met these temperature requirements consistently throughout the composting process. 7. **Test the Compost**: After purchase, but before application, I could have the compost tested by a lab to check for the presence of any contaminants, pathogens, or residues that are not in line with CNG standards. 8. **Peer Verification**: Since CNG operates on a peer-review model, I could discuss with fellow CNG farmers their experiences and recommendations for compost suppliers to ensure I'm choosing a trusted source. By taking these steps, I can ensure the compost I use is of high quality, supports my commitment to natural farming practices, and adheres to the standards set by Certified Naturally Grown.
Describe your "other" source of compost.
List your compost application rates. Give a specific amount or range. On our previous farm, we mixed in a 2" layer of local compost. Currently, we are not to the point of amending the soil.
Do you use Manure? No
List your general manure sources:
Please list application rates. Give a specific amount or range.
What time of year do you apply the manure?
Do you apply any manure within 120 days of edible crop harvesting?
Please list any other brought in fertility sources that you use (rock powders, lime, alfalfa meal, fertilizer mixes, etc.) For each product, list the full name, manufacturer, and OMRI status. Currently using none.
How do you decide which inputs (fertilizers, pest/disease control products, etc.) to use on your farm? How will you determine if an input is allowed for use in CNG production? Deciding which inputs to use on the farm, such as fertilizers or pest and disease control products, under Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) standards involves a careful and informed process. Here's how I would approach this decision-making: 1. **CNG Standards**: First and foremost, I would familiarize myself thoroughly with the CNG standards, which are based on the National Organic Program but tailored to the needs of direct-market farmers like myself. These standards provide a list of allowed and prohibited substances. 2. **Research**: I would conduct research on any potential inputs to understand their composition, source, and effects on soil health, plant growth, and the environment. It's crucial to use products that are not only effective but also align with CNG principles. 3. **CNG Input List**: I would consult the CNG's accepted inputs list, which is a comprehensive resource detailing which fertilizers, amendments, and pest control products are permitted under CNG standards. This list is specifically designed to help farmers like me make informed choices. 4. **Certification Labels**: When selecting inputs, I would look for certification labels such as OMRI, which indicate that the product is approved for use in organic production and likely aligns with CNG standards. 5. **Supplier Communication**: I would speak directly with suppliers to ensure their products are CNG-compliant. It's important that suppliers understand the CNG requirements and can confirm that their products meet these standards. 6. **Peer Consultation**: Consulting with other CNG farmers can be invaluable. Their experiences and recommendations can help determine the best inputs for similar farming practices and conditions. 7. **Trial and Monitoring**: If an input is deemed compliant and suitable, I would start with a small trial application and carefully monitor the results. This allows me to assess the input's effectiveness and any unintended impacts on the farm ecosystem before fully integrating it into my farming practices. 8. **Record Keeping**: Keeping detailed records of all inputs used on the farm is crucial. This documentation supports transparency and is necessary for CNG certification inspections and reviews. If there's ever any doubt about whether an input is allowable under CNG standards, I would err on the side of caution and consult with CNG or other authoritative bodies before using it. This careful approach ensures that my farming practices remain consistent with CNG principles, preserving the integrity of my produce and the trust of my customers.
Have any chemical fertilizers been applied to the fields you are seeking Certification for in the last three years (36 months)? No
According to CNG guidelines, it is acceptable to apply OMRI-listed, chelated synthetic fertilizers to correct specific micronutrient imbalances only if micronutrient deficiency is documented in a recent soil or tissue test. Does the application of this fertilizer meet those requirements?
Specify types, amounts and application dates:
Have any non-acceptable pesticides and/or herbicides been applied to these fields in the last three years?No
If yes, then please specify type and most recent application date:
Do you use Professional Soil Testing services? Yes
In detail, describe your primary weed problems AND methods of control. Do not answer "none". You MUST indicate either actual weed challenges and/or LIKELY challenges, and you must ALSO indicate how you manage (or would manage) them. If you indicate a product, also specify how often it's used.
As a small-scale farmer adhering to Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) standards, I encounter several weed challenges that can vary depending on the season, crop rotation, and local conditions. Being new to this area, we are not sure what we will encounter but based on our history, we have this: **Primary Weed Problems:** 1. **Lamb's Quarters (Chenopodium album)**: This weed is prolific and can rapidly take over if not managed. It competes with crops for nutrients, light, and water. 2. **Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.)**: Crabgrass is an annual grassy weed that thrives in warm weather and can spread quickly, forming dense mats that smother crops. **Methods of Control:** 1. **Cultural Control**: - **Crop Rotation**: Changing the types of crops grown in each field from season to season can help prevent the establishment of weed populations that are specific to certain crops. - **Cover Cropping**: Planting cover crops like rye or clover can outcompete weeds, reduce their germination, and improve soil health, making it less hospitable for weed growth. 2. **Mechanical Control**: - **Manual Weeding**: For small infestations or sensitive areas around plants, hand weeding is effective but labor-intensive. - **Mulching**: Applying organic mulches such as straw, wood chips, or leaf litter can suppress weed growth by blocking sunlight and creating a physical barrier. - **Tillage**: Using the BCS tractor with a rotary plow or other cultivation attachments can disrupt weed growth. However, tillage is done with care to avoid bringing new weed seeds to the surface and to prevent soil erosion. - **Flame Weeding**: A propane torch can be used to lightly pass over young weed seedlings, causing them to wilt and die. This method is suitable for use between rows and before crop seeds germinate. 3. **Biological Control**: - **Beneficial Insects**: Encouraging beneficial insects that prey on weed seeds can help reduce weed pressure. 4. **Preventative Measures**: - **Clean Equipment**: I ensure that any equipment used, such as the BCS tractor, is cleaned between fields to prevent the spread of weed seeds. - **Border Management**: Maintaining clean field borders can prevent the encroachment of weeds from surrounding areas. 5. **Timeliness**: - **Regular Monitoring**: I keep a close eye on fields to catch weed issues early, as young weeds are easier to manage before they set seeds. - **Optimal Timing**: Weeding is most effective when the soil is dry and weeds are small; this is when they are most vulnerable and least likely to re-root. Each of these methods is chosen based on its effectiveness, practicality, and alignment with CNG principles. The goal is to manage weeds in a way that maintains soil health, promotes biodiversity, and ensures the productivity and sustainability of the farm.
In detail, describe your primary insect challenges AND methods of control. Do not answer "none". You MUST indicate either actual pest challenges and/or LIKELY challenges, and you must ALSO indicate how you manage (or would manage) them. If you indicate a product, also specify how often it's used.
On a sustainable farm that adheres to Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) standards, managing insect challenges without synthetic pesticides requires an integrated approach. The primary insect challenges can vary widely based on geography, climate, and the specific crops grown. Since we are new here, let's consider two common pests and the natural control methods that we could use to manage them: **Primary Insect Challenges:** 1. **Aphids**: These small sap-sucking insects can quickly colonize the undersides of leaves, weakening plants and potentially spreading diseases. 2. **Tomato Hornworms**: These large caterpillars can cause extensive damage to tomato plants and other members of the nightshade family by defoliating them and eating the fruits. **Methods of Control:** 1. **Cultural Control**: - **Crop Rotation**: Rotating crops can help break pest life cycles and reduce the buildup of pest populations. - **Sanitation**: Removing plant debris and weeds from the field can eliminate additional habitat and overwintering sites for pests. - **Diversified Plantings**: Incorporating a variety of crops can reduce the chance of major infestations and attract beneficial insects. - **Resistant Varieties**: Choosing plant varieties that are resistant or tolerant to specific pests can greatly reduce the impact of those pests. 2. **Mechanical/Physical Control**: - **Barriers**: Floating row covers can prevent pests from reaching plants, especially when crops are young and most vulnerable. - **Traps**: Yellow sticky traps can be effective for monitoring and reducing aphid populations. - **Hand Picking**: For larger pests like tomato hornworms, manual removal is often effective. 3. **Biological Control**: - **Beneficial Insects**: Introducing or encouraging beneficial insects that prey on or parasitize pests is a cornerstone of organic pest management. For example, lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic wasps can help control aphid populations. - **Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)**: This naturally occurring soil bacterium can be used as a selective biological pesticide to control caterpillar pests such as tomato hornworms without harming beneficial insects. 4. **Botanical or Microbial Insecticides**: - **Neem Oil**: Derived from the seeds of the neem tree, neem oil can be effective against a variety of pests, including aphids. It works as an antifeedant, growth regulator, and repellent. - **Insecticidal Soaps**: These can be used to target soft-bodied pests like aphids, but must come into direct contact with the insects to be effective. 5. **Monitoring**: - **Scouting**: Regularly inspecting plants for signs of pests is critical to catching problems early before they become infestations. - **Records**: Keeping detailed records of pest occurrences can help predict and prepare for future challenges. 6. **Habitat Enhancement**: - **Flower Strips**: Planting strips of flowers that bloom at different times can provide habitat and nectar sources for beneficial insects. - **Conservation**: Preserving areas with natural vegetation can also support a diverse population of beneficial organisms. By employing a mix of these strategies, I can manage insect pressures in a way that is consistent with CNG principles and maintains a healthy, balanced ecosystem on the farm. It's important to regularly evaluate the effectiveness
In detail, describe your primary disease challenges AND methods of control. Do not answer "none". You MUST indicate either actual disease challenges and/or LIKELY challenges, and you must ALSO indicate how you manage (or would manage) them. If you indicate a product, also specify how often it's used.
Here are two common plant disease challenges and natural control methods that would be used to manage them: **Primary Disease Challenges:** 1. **Powdery Mildew**: A fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants, powdery mildew shows up as white, powdery spots on leaves and stems. It can stunt growth and reduce yields. 2. **Early Blight (Alternaria solani)**: This fungal disease primarily affects tomatoes and potatoes, causing dark spots with concentric rings on leaves, stems, and fruit, leading to defoliation and reduced crop health. **Methods of Control:** 1. **Cultural Controls**: - **Crop Rotation**: Rotating crops, especially within the same plant family, can help prevent the buildup of soil-borne pathogens. - **Plant Selection**: Choosing disease-resistant or tolerant varieties can greatly minimize the impact of certain diseases. - **Proper Spacing**: Ensuring adequate spacing between plants promotes air circulation, which can help reduce the humidity levels that many pathogens thrive on. - **Sanitation**: Regularly removing infected plant debris from the field and thorough end-of-season clean-up can reduce the amount of inoculum in the environment. 2. **Physical Controls**: - **Water Management**: Using drip irrigation instead of overhead watering can help keep foliage dry and reduce the spread of diseases like powdery mildew and early blight. - **Mulching**: Applying organic mulches can prevent soil-borne pathogens from splashing onto lower leaves during rain or watering. 3. **Biological Controls**: - **Compost Tea**: Spraying compost tea on plants can help boost their natural defenses against diseases by increasing the number of beneficial microorganisms on the plant surfaces. - **Bacillus subtilis**: Some biofungicides contain this beneficial bacterium, which can help prevent the establishment and spread of fungal diseases. 4. **Botanical and Mineral Controls**: - **Sulfur**: For powdery mildew, sulfur is a traditional organic fungicide that can be effective when applied at the right time and under the right conditions. - **Copper-based Fungicides**: Copper sprays can be used to control early blight, but they must be used judiciously to avoid copper accumulation in the soil, and only approved forms of copper should be used under CNG guidelines. 5. **Monitoring and Early Detection**: - **Regular Scouting**: Frequently inspecting plants for early signs of disease allows for timely interventions. - **Environmental Monitoring**: Keeping track of humidity and temperature can help predict disease outbreaks. 6. **Good Farming Practices**: - **Healthy Soil**: Maintaining high soil organic matter and proper pH can help plants grow strong and resist diseases. - **Crop Diversity**: Planting a diverse array of crops can reduce the likelihood of disease spread and maintain a balanced farm ecosystem. By integrating these approaches, I can manage plant diseases in a way that supports healthy crop production and aligns with CNG principles. The emphasis is always on prevention and maintaining a resilient farming system rather than relying on reactive treatments.
Please list any weed, pest, or disease products that you use (insecticidal soap, horticultural vinegar, copper, etc.). For each product, list the full name, manufacturer, and OMRI status. Here's a list of potential products that are typically allowed under CNG guidelines, provided they are not prohibited by the CNG's specific standards and are used according to the label instructions: **Weed Control Products:** - **Horticultural Vinegar**: An acetic acid solution stronger than household vinegar, used as a non-selective contact herbicide. - **Corn Gluten Meal**: A pre-emergent herbicide that can suppress weed seed germination. **Pest Control Products:** - **Insecticidal Soap**: A potassium fatty acid soap used to control soft-bodied insects like aphids, mites, and whiteflies. - **Neem Oil**: An oil extracted from the seeds of the neem tree, effective against a variety of insect pests and some diseases. - **Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)**: A naturally occurring bacterium used as a biological pesticide against certain caterpillars and other insect larvae. - **Diatomaceous Earth**: A powdery substance made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, used to control insects with exoskeletons, such as beetles and ants. - **Pyrethrins**: Extracts from the chrysanthemum flower that act as a contact insecticide against a broad range of pests. **Disease Control Products:** - **Copper-based Fungicides**: Products containing copper as an active ingredient, used to control fungal diseases like blight and mildew. - **Sulfur**: A natural element used as a fungicide and miticide to control diseases like powdery mildew and rusts. - **Bacillus subtilis**: A beneficial bacterium used in certain biofungicides to suppress fungal diseases. - **Hydrogen Peroxide**: Sometimes used in low concentrations as a foliar spray to control fungal pathogens. It's important to note that when using any of these products, I would follow best practices, including: - Applying them according to the manufacturer's guidelines. - Using them as part of an integrated pest and disease management plan that prioritizes preventative measures. - Keeping detailed records of all product applications for CNG certification purposes. Before using any product, I would also check the most recent CNG Production Standards and the CNG list of approved substances to ensure compliance, as standards and allowed inputs can change. If there is uncertainty about the permissibility of a product, I would reach out to CNG or consult with other CNG-certified farmers for guidance.
Please list the water source you use for crop irrigation. If source is public river, pond or lake, please note the name: I have multiple sources for crop irrigation to ensure a reliable water supply throughout the growing season. Here are the sources I use: 1. **Pond Water**: I will have an on-site pond that serves as a natural water reservoir. I use this water for irrigation, which is particularly useful during dry spells. The pond not only provides water but also supports local wildlife and can help improve the farm's microclimate. 2. **Well Water**: My farm will be equipped with a well that taps into groundwater. This source is beneficial because it's less likely to be subject to municipal water restrictions and typically offers a consistent supply. However, I ensure that the well is regularly tested for water quality and sustainable yield to prevent over-extraction of the groundwater. 3. **County Water**: When necessary, I also have access to county water, which is treated municipal water. This is usually my last resort for irrigation due to the cost and the potential for chlorine and other chemicals in the water. If I use county water, I typically let it sit in a holding tank for a short while to allow chlorine to dissipate before application, or I use a filter to remove chlorine if immediate irrigation is necessary. For each of these sources, I implement water conservation measures to make the most efficient use of the water: - **Drip Irrigation**: I employ drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to the root zones of plants, minimizing evaporation and runoff. - **Timed Watering**: Irrigating during cooler parts of the day, typically early morning or late evening, reduces water loss to evaporation. - **Mulching**: Applying organic mulch helps retain soil moisture and reduces the need for frequent watering. - **Soil Health**: Maintaining healthy, organically rich soil improves water retention and reduces irrigation needs. By utilizing these diverse water sources and conservation practices, I am able to maintain a sustainable irrigation system that supports my crops while being mindful of my environmental impact and adhering to CNG standards.
Are there any known contaminants in the irrigation water? No
If yes, please explain:

Microgreens & Sprouts

Please fill this out for your indoor operation only.

Provide a brief description of your operation. (square footage? in a greenhouse or other indoor setting? etc.)
Our microgreens will be grown in a climate controlled grow room (modified shipping container).
Are any of your crops sprouted and/or grown without soil or substrate? Use the link below to view our guidance on sprouts vs. microgreens. No
For sprouts, we require that all seeds are organic or CNG. If you grow or decide to grow sprouts, will you purchase only organic and/or CNG seed for your sprout crop? Yes
What media are you using to grow your microgreens and/or sprouts? 

If you purchase potting mix or soilless media, list the product name, manufacturer, and OMRI status. If you make your own, list the ingredients.
Coco Coir / Hemp fiber mats
Describe the mats or other substrate you are using. Provide product names.
Terrafiber grow mats.
What type of trays are you using in your operation? 1020 trays
What is your general irrigation set-up? Does water recirculate? What is the source of the water?
As mentioned in detail in a previous section, we use multiple sources depending on the need. We also use drip irrigation to prevent foliar diseases.
Although pests and disease are certainly less common for microgreens operations, there are still issues such as fungal gnats and damping off. What measures do you use to prevent pest and disease pressures?
I take several measures to prevent pest and disease pressures in my microgreen operation. Specifically: 1. Clean growing environment: I maintain a clean indoor growing environment to minimize the risk of pest and disease introduction. This includes regular cleaning of trays, equipment, and the growing area to prevent the buildup of pathogens and pests. 2. Controlled humidity: I carefully manage humidity levels in the indoor growing space to discourage the presence of fungal gnats, which thrive in moist conditions. By controlling humidity through proper ventilation and monitoring, I aim to create an environment less conducive to pest infestations. 3. Seed sanitation: I ensure that the seeds used for microgreens are of high quality and free from pathogens to prevent the introduction of diseases at the start of the growing cycle. 4. Integrated pest management (IPM): I implement an IPM approach, which includes regular monitoring for pests and diseases, as well as the use of natural predators such as predatory mites or beneficial nematodes to manage pest populations. This approach helps me address issues as they arise while minimizing the use of synthetic pesticides. 5. Artificial lighting management: I carefully manage the indoor lighting to discourage pest infestations, as certain pests are attracted to specific light spectrums. By using this knowledge, I can minimize the attraction of pests to the growing area. By integrating these measures into my indoor microgreens operation, I aim to maintain a healthy and pest-resistant growing environment while adhering to natural growing practices.
How do you dispose of spent soil? Do you compost?
Yes, as a small-scale farmer with a focus on natural growing practices, I responsibly dispose of spent soil from my operation. I do this by incorporating composting into my farming practices. When my soil becomes spent or depleted of nutrients, I carefully collect and transfer it to my composting area. In the composting process, the spent soil is combined with other organic matter such as plant trimmings, food scraps, and other compostable materials. This helps to enrich the compost with a diverse array of nutrients and organic matter. Over time, through the natural decomposition process, the organic matter breaks down into nutrient-rich compost. This compost can then be used to amend and fertilize the soil for future plantings, completing the cycle of sustainability. Composting not only provides an environmentally friendly method for disposing of spent soil but also allows me to reduce waste and create a valuable resource for enhancing soil fertility in my microgreens operation.
Is your operation fully indoors? No
Are you growing any crops outside in the soil? Yes

Maple

Are you a maple producer who seeks to certify your sugarbush?
Maple sap is considered a wild crop. CNG's Wild Crop Harvesting Standard states that wild crop must be harvested in a manner that ensures that such harvesting or gathering will not be destructive to the environment and will sustain the growth and production of the wild crop. Please briefly describe any steps you take to protect and ensure the sustainability of your sugarbush.

Do you use an organic de-foamer? custom_field:pf_dump_nearby$$
Over-tapping trees can stunt their growth. Do you (or will you) adhere to the Cornell Sugar Maple Research & Extension Program guidelines which state "trees 10-17 inches in diameter (31-53 inch circumference) should have no more than one tap. A tree 18-24 inches in diameter (57-75 inch circumference) should have no more than two taps. A tree larger than 25 inches in diameter (79-inch circumference) should have no more than three taps."
To maximize tree health and sap production, CNG supports Cornell's recommendation that all taps are 5/16" in diameter or smaller. Is this your practice, and if not, would you be willing to transition to 5/16" (or smaller) taps within the next three years? Please elaborate.

Seeds & Transplants

CNG certification requires the use of certified organic or CNG seeds whenever available. Please indicate the suppliers from which you source (or will source) your seeds. The CNG seed standard also applies to sweet potato slips, seed potatoes, day-neutral strawberry slips, and flower bulbs, corms, and tubers.
As a small-scale farmer seeking Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) certification and adhering to the CNG seed standard, I source (or will source) my seeds and other planting materials from suppliers that provide certified organic or CNG seeds whenever available. By sourcing my seeds and planting materials from these local and regional suppliers, I ensure that I am meeting the CNG seed standard and supporting the use of certified organic or CNG seeds while also promoting local agricultural diversity and resilience.
Please indicate, by typing your initials, that you will as a general rule purchase organically grown seeds, AND that you will only purchase conventional seed when the variety you wish to grow is not available in certified organic or CNG form. For each variety purchased in conventional form, you will identify (and keep records of) at least three commercial organic seed suppliers who do not carry that variety. YB
Do you purchase or grow using any Genetically Modified seeds? No
Do you use any chemically treated seeds in your operation? No
If yes, please list types:
Please note reason for purchasing treated seed:

Do you grow your own transplants? Yes
Do you purchase potting soil, or do you mix your own on the farm? Both
What ingredients does your potting mix contain? If you purchase a mix, please also indicate which product.
PRO-MIX Premium Organic Vegetable and Herb Mix Compost
Are all of your transplants grown according to CNG standards, without synthetic fertilizers or wetting agents? Yes
If any transplants are not grown according to CNG standards, please list them here. These products may not be marketed as CNG.
N/A
Do you source any transplants from off your farm? No
From which suppliers do you source transplants?

How have you confirmed with your supplier that the transplants are grown without synthetic fertilizers or wetting agents?
Please list any bought-in transplants not grown according to CNG standards. This produce may not be sold as Certified Naturally Grown (except, in the case of perennials, after twelve months of CNG cultivation).

Chemical/Spray Drift and Buffers:

Is there any likelihood of Chemical/Spray drift contamination of your fields? No
If yes, please state the source (conventional farm field, golf course, neighbor's lawn, etc.) and any details you can provide (type of pesticide, fertilizer, herbicide used and/or what used for).

Do you have an adequate buffer to protect yourself from potential contamination? Yes
Please refer to the CNG Buffer FAQ below and explain why your buffers are not adequate.
Please describe your buffer. Be as specific as possible and include buffer widths. On all sides, how far is it from your crops to the next closest use (road, conventional crop, residential yard)? Be sure to specify what is grown on neighboring land that is in agricultural use. For example: To the north and east, a wooded area of at least 100 yards separates us from the neighbor's corn fields, to the south is a fallow field at least 100 yards deep separating us from the road, and to the west about 60 feet separates our crops from a field where conventional corn and soybeans are grown.
No surrounding grow operations or field management. Property is surrounded by a treel line on the S, E, W sides. Wildlife is in the South adjoining property (zebra). E and W neighbors do not farm.

Agreements