Project Overview
FNE07-599
Project Type: Farmer
Funds awarded in 2007: $7,115.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/2009
Region: Northeast
State: West Virginia
Project Leader:
Commodities
- Additional Plants: herbs
Practices
- Crop Production: agroforestry, organic fertilizers, conservation tillage
- Education and Training: farmer to farmer, on-farm/ranch research, workshop, technical assistance
- Farm Business Management: marketing management
- Pest Management: mulching - vegetative
- Soil Management: organic matter, soil analysis
- Sustainable Communities: new business opportunities, public participation, employment opportunities
Proposal summary:
Rural Appalachia is characterized by small farms with shallow, rocky soils and steep topography. Yet many farms have woodlots with areas that are suitable for production of native woodland plants. The project will investigate soil fertility levels and cultural practices to maximize seed and seedling rootlet production of Virginia snakeroot and false unicorn, two native plants in demand by the medicinal herb trade. Outreach will be through presentations at a symposium, production of a booklet, and a print and electronic newsletter article.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or SARE.