Commissioner Jasper returns to the Monadnock Region for a discussion with local farmers

“Community Conversation with Shawn Jasper, NH Commissioner of Agriculture, Markets & Food” 

Presented by Monadnock Farm and Community Coalition

Tuesday, June 12, 2018, 5:30pm – 7:30pm Stonewall Farm, Keene, NH

KEENE, NH (5/21/18) —A double blow -- prolonged low milk prices coupled with local drought has brought tough times to New Hampshire dairies. HR 1233 voted in last week by the NH Senate, preempts the use of fertilizers and seeds locally; bad news for organic farmers and others. 

The House of Representatives is developing and considering amendments to the 2018 Farm Bill including: eliminating the Organic Certification Cost Share Program, cutting funding for new farmer programs, eliminating the Conservation Stewardship program, and making major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) which will affect our nation’s hungry and food insecure families. 

Join the Monadnock Farm and Community Coalition (MFCC) in a discussion with Shawn Jasper, NH Commissioner of Agriculture, Markets & Food, unpacking the issues affecting different types of farming businesses, and how state and federal policy can help to ensure a robust and sustainable future for farmers.

“We are in a pivotal time in the history of farming in New Hampshire. Dairy farms are struggling, some farmers are working second jobs to make ends meet, new farmers look to government-funded farming programs to help get them started, ” says Roe-Ann Tasoulas, Director of MFCC. “Commissioner Jasper is in a unique position to advocate for policy supportive of local farming, as are our State Representatives. We welcome the opportunity for farmers, elected officials, stakeholders and the Commissioner to come together to enjoy an evening of discussion, connection, and great local food.”

Commissioner Jasper grew up on his grandparent’s business, Jasper Poultry Farm and operated the farm from 1979-1983. Jasper previously served 12 terms in the House of Reps and had been Speaker of the House from 2014-17. 

Last month, the Cheshire County Farm Bureau hosted Commissioner Jasper. MFCC is bringing back Jasper to the area to hear more about his solutions to current issues affecting local and regional farmers, and to field questions from a panel of area farmers. 

A locally sourced, FREE dinner will be served compliments of Lucas Mediterranean Café and the Monadnock Food Coop. A community discussion/Q & A will follow dinner. 

The event is free and open to the public. 

Please RSVP! Email coordinator@mfccoalition.orgor online at http://www.mfcommunitycoalition.org