Summer is here and we are planning a couple of field tours along with working with different farmers to plant multi-species cover crop mixes in the Meduxnekeag Watershed through a DEP funded grant project. The District is also partnering with a couple of other agencies on some upcoming workshops. Check back often for updated information. In the meantime, happy growing!

LOOKING AHEAD

FARMER COFFEE AND FIELD TOUR: The SASWCD is hosting a "Farmer Coffee and Field Tour" Thursday, July 26 beginning at 9 am - 10:30. Event is happening at Kingsbury Family Farm's Shank Rd field in Littleton (just off of Route 1) where they have planted a multi-species mix for nematode control. John Jemison and Alicyn Smart of UMaine Cooperative Extension will be on hand for the in-field discussion, as will growers Shane Kingsbury and Dustin Cowperthwaite. The educational event is made possible through grant funding through the DEP. Come kick the dirt, learn a little bit more about the role of cover crops, and enjoy a cup of joe. For additional information, contact the Southern Aroostook SWCD: 254-4126 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

BIG TREE CONTEST - The SASWCD and Maine Forest Service are continuing to encourage people of all ages to appreciate the value of trees and forest with a fun competition, "Big Tree Contest". It is easy to participate. If you know of a tree that fits the "Big Tree" criteria, simply fill out a nomination form and submit it to the SASWCD. District Forester Dan Jacobs will follow up and measure the tree, recording its dimensions based on a formula. Competition will be held from January until October, with a complete list of nominated trees and measurements available at that time. It's a good excuse to get outside! You may download a Tree Nomination Form here. A list of native Maine trees can be found on the Maine Forest Service website at Forest Trees of Maine. It's a great resource as it includes photos of our native tree species.