Farm Bulletin: Heeeeeeere's Anthony!

Often farmers are thought of as isolated individuals toiling away on their land, out of touch with the goings-on in the outside world. In my experience that is far from the truth. For instance, contributor Anthony Boutard of Ayers Creek Farm has worked with state agencies on legislation that benefits small family farmers and is sought out on a regular basis to speak about issues affecting farmers in Oregon and the region. This week brings two opportunities to hear him discussing the issues he feels passionately about.

At this month's Friends of Family Farmers InFarmation (and Beer!), forest owner Peter Hayes and wine-maker Rudy Marchesi will join Anthony in a conversation about the way the Tualatin River links our efforts and lives. Montinore Vineyard, Hyla Woods and Ayers Creek Farm are located along the headwaters of the river. Peter and Pam Hayes started this conversation with us five years ago, later Rudy joined in, and we hope the audience will participate in the conversation as we progress. Bit experimental, but with a good brew in hand what can go wrong?

It is free, good fun and a convivial introduction to an organization working to improve the state's policies regarding family farms. Oh yes, you can join us in a good glass of beer to keep the evening cheerful.

Thursday, Jan. 10, Anthony will teach a class on The Challenges and Rewards of Growing Heritage Grains at the Native Seeds/SEARCH Grain School in Tucson, Arizona. Native Seed/SEARCH  is non-profit that promotes seed conservation. In the evening there will be an open house at the organization's Conservation Center, where he will talk about corn, his book, Beautiful Corn, and maybe why his favorite Goldberg Variation is #30, the Quodlibet, or why a good log collection makes the farmer. If you have friends in the Tucson area, they are welcome to visit with Anthony.

Details: InFARMation (and Beer!). Tues., Jan. 8, doors open at 5:30 pm for socializing, program starts at 6:30 pm; free. Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison. Phone 503-759-3276.

Native Seeds/SEARCH Grain School Presentation. Thurs., Jan. 10, 6-8 pm; free. Native Seeds/SEARCH Conservation Center, 3584 East River Road, Tucson, AZ. 520-622-5561 or toll free 866-622-5561.