Ever try to find some fact-based information about agriculture, gardening, nutrition… but had a hard time getting past all the junk sites? Extension may be the key to getting the information you need.

eXtension collects fact-based information from subject matter experts in extension offices at from 74 land-grant institutions in the US so it can be easily accessed by anyone 24/7/365. This non-profit is overseen by representatives of land grant institutions chosen by each of 7 regions in the US (details on mission and oversight can be found at the eXtension Foundation website).  

If you go to the website, it should auto-detect your location so you can find information from your closest extension office. You can also choose to select a different institution by zip code or state or just browse the list of institutions. Another option is to view subjects by resource areas aka Communities of Practice.

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Many people who garden or make home preserves might be interested in selling their produce and products at the local farmers market or other places, but might not know what laws regulate sale of such items. Now, people can easily find out, thanks to the Leopold Center at Iowa State University. Their FAQs on Food Regulations for Small Market Food Producers provides information and resources.

For example, did you know that whole, uncut fruits and vegetables may be sold without any license and without charging sales tax? While growers of whole fruits and vegetables are not required to practice any particular food safety procedures, the Leopold Center recommends that Good Agricultural Practices (pdf) be used, such as using non-porus containers for transport of crops.

Of course, laws in Iowa could be different from other states, so make sure to check what is appropriate in your state (links for midwestern states can be found at the bottom of the page at “13. Can I sell my products in other states?”).

via the ISU Sus Ag mailing list.

If you are looking for reasoned discussions on topics related to genetic modification of organisms, I have a resource for you! In 2006, the Unversity of Califorinia put out the Agricultural Biotechnology in California Series. This peer-reviewed collection of essays considers topics from coexistence with organic farming to intellectual property protection. The essays are balanced, showing the real problems and benefits of genetic modification, and provide plenty of references for anyone who might want to look more in depth.

Science magazine has developed an interactive multi-media tool to help people learn about DNA, plant genetics, genetic engineering, and more. It’s definitely worth checking out. Interactive feature from Science