ECHO Bear Cat has donated over 270 pairs of landscaping gloves to the local Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity (LAHFA).

Rob Rich, Construction Manager and Shelby Cochran, ReStore VISTA were thrilled to accept the gloves and were excited to put them to use. LAHFA will supply the gloves for volunteer workers to use at future construction sites and will sell the gloves at a discounted retail price at their home-improvement thrift ReStore.

“We wanted to find an organization that would benefit the most from the glove donation,” said Director of ECHO Bear Cat, Dale Winkelman. We decided to reach out and donate to our local Habitat for Humanity, knowing they would get the most benefit and use out of the gloves.”

Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity serves the Cass and Clay counties of North Dakota and Minnesota. First established in 1991, LAHFH has built and rehabbed 40 homes and continues to strive to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness. LFHFA is a locally run affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. To learn more about the organization, please visit www.lakeagassizhabitat.org.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

After a long, hard winter, the first signs of spring are beginning to sprout across the country, and winter-weary homeowners are not the only ones excited.  These tender young shoots and blooms are a tasty snack for the neighborhood deer population. Now is the time to nip that deer snacking habit in the bud with Sweeney’s Deer Repellent.  A single application of the deer repellent this spring can protect new growth and existing plants for an entire growing season.

“Sweeney’s Deer Repellent is a scent-based repellent made of 100 percent dried blood.  While not offensive to humans, the odor triggers an “danger” response in deer, which causes them to leave the area,” says Stew Clark, Sweeney’s Director of Research and Development.  “Better yet, the ingredient is non-toxic and safe to use in any garden and around children and pets.  The scent released continually, all-season long with no reapplication needed.”

Sweeney’s Deer Repellent is packaged in a patented, weather-proof container that is specially designed to allow the scent to escape but keep rain and other elements at bay.  Homeowners simply stake the containers in the ground or hang them in shrubs four to eight feet apart throughout the desired protection area.  There’s no messy mixing, spraying or reapplication necessary.

In recent years, there have been two basic kinds of deer repellents - liquid sprays that are applied directly to the plants foliage or granules that can be spread around the base of the plant or shrub.  However, since both liquid and granular applications are exposed to the elements, their effectiveness is measured, at best, in weeks. Rain can very quickly wash the repellent off of the plant’s leaves or dissolve it into the ground. Throughout the course of a normal growing season, numerous applications are required and just one missed application can leave a garden open to deer invasions.  In addition, liquid repellents tend to smell terrible. The odor can be so bad that, for several hours, homeowners cannot enjoy sitting outdoors.

These benefits have made Sweeney’s Deer Repellent an attractive solution for deer-dogged homeowners, landscapers and professional grounds crews across the country.  Because no reapplication is needed, the repellent is also an economical option, costing less over a season than most traditional repellant options.

Consumers with deer repellent questions are invited to call the Sweeney’s hotline at 866-738-7920 for personalized assistance in solving deer dilemmas or visit http://www.wrsweeney.com  or https://www.facebook.com/SweeneysDIYPestControl  for more information.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

The Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo., today announced that it has been selected by the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) to host the National High School Finals Rodeo through the 2015 season. The 64^th Annual National High School Finals Rodeo, the first hosted by the Sweetwater Events Complex, takes place July 15-21, 2012.

The 10-day event, dubbed the 'World's Largest Rodeo,' features more than 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls from 43 states and three countries - the U.S., Canada and Australia. Competitors vie for national titles, prizes and their share of thousands of dollars in college scholarships. In addition to the cowboys and cowgirls, the Sweetwater Events Complex will also host 1,800 performance horses, 130 bulls, 260 rough-stock horses, 140 goats, 500 cutting cattle, 120 steer wrestling cattle, 120 team-roping cattle, 120 breakaway roping calves, and 120 tie-down calves.

Larry Lloyd, executive director of the Sweetwater Events Complex, says the National High School Finals Rodeo will have a tremendous economic impact on Rock Springs and the other communities throughout Sweetwater County. "A study on the 2011 rodeo showed that more than 12,000 visitors spent more than $9 million over the course of the event in a single year. That translates to nearly $40 million over four years," says Lloyd. "That's good news for our local businesses, campgrounds, hotels, restaurants, retail shops and banks." He adds, "We are excited to roll out our western welcome mat for this one-of-a-kind event!"

Lloyd says about $4 million in improvements have been made at the events complex to accommodate the rodeo, including the addition of one thousand campsites; power, water and sewer upgrades; and new arenas and holding facilities. NHSRA executive director James Higginbotham says the improvements played a part in Sweetwater Events Complex being selected.

"The shooting facilities in Green River and Rock Springs have been upgraded for our event, as the shooting program has become an important event for our members," says Higginbotham. "The people of Sweetwater County and the towns of Rock Springs and Green River have made us feel very welcome. We appreciate very much the support shown by Governor Mead, county and city officials, Larry Lloyd and his staff, and the entire community."

In addition to the NRA-sponsored shooting sports program, the National High School Finals Rodeo includes traditional rodeo performances, talent shows, a queen contest, volleyball tournaments, and more. For a tentative schedule of events visit http://www.sweetwaterevents.com/Upload/File/2012NHSFR%20ScheduleTentative.pdf.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

The American lifestyle requires a great deal of water usage. It is estimated that each person uses an average of 124 gallons of water each day. This precious resource is not only used for drinking, cooking and cleaning but agricultural endeavors need a great deal of water.  Typically, outdoor water use accounts for up to 50 percent of water consumed by households.

Most Americans live within a mile of a river or stream and everyone needs to do their part to protect this valuable natural resource. Healthy rivers give us clean drinking water, support habitats for fish and wildlife and provide endless recreational opportunities. Simple steps can help conserve water and save money too. Try turning off the water while brushing your teeth to save two gallons a minute. And fix leaky faucets – one drip per minute can waste up to 2,700 gallons a year. In your yard, use mulch to help retain ground moisture, and when you do water, early mornings and late evenings are the best times. 

From rivers to tree roots to drinking water and beyond, clean water keeps the world flowing. Plow & Hearth has decided to raise awareness for American Rivers, the nation’s leading river conservation organization by launching the WaterColors contest.

To enter simply submit an artistic expression inspired by water and colors. These creations may be photos of rain barrels, water bottles or watering cans that have been painted. Anything that captures the spirit of Water Colors, including photos of the creative ways a particular garden has been planted, drawings of rivers, poems or stories about water. Plow & Hearth’s sustainability committee says “It’s the perfect opportunity to be creative, express yourself and support a great organization” by raising awareness.

Entries will be collected through September 30, 2012. Once the contest has ended, up to five finalists will be selected from all entries. The final selection will be placed on Plow & Hearth Facebook for bidding purposes for the 3 Grand Prize winners.

First Place

• $5,000 contribution to American Rivers on behalf of Plow & Hearth and the winner.
• $1,000 Plow & Hearth Gift Certificate

Second Place

• $3,000 contribution to American Rivers on behalf of Plow & Hearth and the winner.
• $500 Plow & Hearth Gift Certificate

Third Place

• $2,000 contribution to American Rivers on behalf of Plow & Hearth and the winner.
• $250 Plow & Hearth Gift Certificate

For complete rules and to see examples of beautiful painted rain barrels, visit www.plowandhearth.com/watercolors.  

Plow & Hearth offers environmentally friendly and energy efficient products to help individuals reach their goals to support and contribute to the conservation of water and energy. Some of the environmentally friendly products sold at the original store in 1980 are still popular and just as efficient today. Products that promote sustainability and environmental awareness include composting products, non-invasive pest control, energy-saving insulated curtains and wood burning accessories. By offering products with practical, sustainable uses and eco-friendly attributes, Plow & Hearth encourages awareness and environmental responsibility.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

AgLocal, a meat-to-table online marketplace connecting independent farms and producers with the demand of businesses and consumers, was selected as a finalist in the 4^th annual SXSW Accelerator presented by Microsoft BizSpark. Sponsored by Microsoft BizSpark, HTC, The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Turner Broadcasting, and .net, hundreds of companies submitted to present at the SXSW Accelerator, where the Kansas City based start-up, AgLocal, was selected as one of 56 finalists in seven different categories.

At the SXSW Accelerator event, Founder and CEO, Naithan Jones will present AgLocal as the best way to source meat in 2012 and beyond. During the event, he will demonstrate why this user-powered exchange and community is recreating the connection between the local farms and the communities that value and sustain them. 

“Being a finalist in the SXSW Accelerator event demonstrates the opportunity and power of technology to revolutionize the traditional farmer-consumer relationship,” said Jones. “Ninety percent of the farms in the U.S. are owned and operated by individuals or families. If we can use fresh technology to increase demand by connecting producers with consumers, AgLocal can potentially change the way we traditionally think of buying meat.”

The company will launch in select markets across America in the first half of 2012, with plans to scale up to 30 cities before years end.  Aglocal is currently recruiting local producers in those regions to participate in the roll out.

AgLocal will present alongside seven other companies in the Innovative Web Technologies at 3:30 pm on Monday, March 12^th in Salon B on the fourth floor of the Downtown Austin Hilton. Judges will select a winner, which will be revealed on March 13^th at 6pm at the Austin Convention Center.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

The American Sportfishing Association (ASA), along with the country's leading conservation and sportsmen's and women's organizations, applauds the Senate for passing the RESTORE the Gulf Coast Act (S. 1400) as an amendment to the Senate transportation bill. Introduced by Sens. Mary Landrieu (D-La.), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) and Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), RESTORE represents extraordinary bipartisan consensus among lawmakers in the Gulf of Mexico region and beyond and is a crucial measure that ensures that 80 percent of the funds from the Clean Water Act and other penalties assessed in the wake of the April 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill are used to pay for economic and environmental restoration projects in Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Due to Senator Nelson's leadership, of particular importance to the sportfishing industry, is funding provided in RESTORE to establish a research, science and technology program aimed at improving Gulf fisheries management and monitoring.

This amendment also includes a major, much needed increase in funding for the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund. The fund provides money to federal, state and local governments for the acquisition of land and water to benefit conservation and recreation. The provision would double current funding levels for the fund to $700 million for each of the next two years and reauthorize it until 2022, for a total of $1.4 billion.

Taken together, if the transportation bill with the RESTORE amendment attached should win final passage, these two doses of conservation funding would represent, by some estimates, the largest boost in conservation funding in American history.

"The entire sportfishing community thanks Senators Landrieu, Nelson and Shelby not just for taking a huge step forward to help ensure the long-term health of the Gulf Coast ecosystem and coastal economies, but also for infusing significant, and essential, conservation dollars into the Land and Water Conservation Fund," said ASA Vice President Gordon Robertson. "Sportsmen and women, and the businesses they support, rely on clean water to ensure an enjoyable and productive day on the water. Consequently, anglers have consistently advocated for the conservation of our nation's waters and wetlands. America's 60 million anglers should celebrate this truly historic vote."

Robertson also recognized the efforts of Senator Max Baucus (D-Mont.) for his leadership in ensuring that not only the Gulf, but the entire country benefits from RESTORE and the funds now available for the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

Saltwater recreational fishing contributes more than $8 billion in economic output in the Gulf Coast region annually and supports approximately 82,000 jobs. The Gulf of Mexico is one of the most popular areas for recreational fishing in the United States with 3.6 million saltwater anglers spending more than 42.5 million days on the water each year. Beyond recreational fishing, the Gulf is a strong engine of commerce. It produces roughly 40 percent of all the seafood in the lower 48 states. The region is home to 10 of the nation's 15 largest ports, while over 25 percent of the nation's waterborne exports pass through Louisiana ports alone.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Yanmar America, a major supplier of compact utility tractors, compact construction equipment and diesel engines, today announced the rollout of its new Lx HST Series tractors, featuring a state-of-the-art hydrostatic (HST) transmission.

The new HST transmission gives users a car-like feel while maintaining the power and efficiency that are required and customers depend on for performing heavy-duty functions. And, the Lx HST Series tractors come equipped with powerful, quiet, low-emission 41, 45 and 49 horsepower Yanmar diesel engines, making the flagship Lx HST Series tractors even more versatile.

"The hydrostatic transmission makes our Lx HST Series tractors both powerful and easy to operate," said Ted Bregar, president of Yanmar America Corp. "Our engineers found a way to combine smooth shifting, great performance and the best fuel economy in its class into our flagship tractor series. Our customers and dealers alike will no doubt be very pleased with the features and performance of Yanmar's new Lx HST Series tractors."

The HST transmission has a high range for travel speed, medium range for mowing and a low range for hard-pull applications and loader work. And the Lx HST tractors are powered by specially-designed, direct-injection or turbo diesel engines, which yield lower emissions and higher reserve torque for more usable horsepower.

Further distinguishing the Lx HST Series is Yanmar's Performance Link Technology. It delivers a smoother and more comfortable ride with less noise, more efficient operation and less wear and tear, along with more usable horsepower and less power loss. These enhanced performance features are the result of Yanmar's unique manufacturing process. With Performance Link Technology, all major components of Yanmar tractors are made in-house: the engine, transmission and axles. Yanmar is the only manufacturer that uses this advanced all-in-one process.

Detailed specifications of the Lx HST Series tractors are available on the Yanmar Tractor Web site.

All Yanmar tractors are assembled at Yanmar's U.S. headquarters in Georgia. The facility handles all marketing, sales, service and support functions for its network of authorized dealers. This allows Yanmar to, among other things, provide sales and service training directly from the manufacturer and to provide direct support for service and parts requirements.

Yanmar is one of the few compact tractor companies that designs and manufactures all of its own components and parts.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

A new greenhouse company in Missoula, Mont., is not only designing greenhouses with new patented technology but is also using a unique manufacturing model. To fulfill its production needs, the Convertible Greenhouse Co. recently partnered with Opportunity Resources Inc., a Montana-based nonprofit organization that employs people with disabilities.

“We’ve designed the greenhouses to be the heart of the garden,” said Jeff Howard, CGC president. “And for Opportunity Resources the greenhouse manufacturing unit is becoming an integral part of its organization, providing valuable employment opportunities for its diverse workforce.”

Howard was looking for a manufacturing partner for his greenhouses when he learned of ORI losing contract work after a local paper mill closed. Now, ORI’s wood shop employees are busy cutting the shelf and bench components utilized in the greenhouses. ORI employees also assemble and ship the greenhouse kits.

“I believed in Howard’s greenhouse products and the manufacturing model from the onset,” said Jack Chambers, CEO of ORI. “It’s a very nice fit for the work we provide our employees. The product itself is high quality and very functional. I think gardeners will definitely like it.”

Howard, a lifelong gardener who as a boy started growing tomatoes with his grandfather, said that there aren’t any other greenhouses quite like CGC’s. He’s designed the greenhouses for hobby and professional gardeners at prices affordable for both.

The greenhouses are manufactured from high-performance 6-mil greenhouse film with an all-metal frame construction. Howard has patented several designs that make opening the greenhouse and accessing plants simpler than other greenhouse designs — especially important for gardeners who work alone. The greenhouses can be used in the middle of a garden or against the side of a building and are also ideal for use over a raised bed.

“I don’t know of any other design that works as well on raised beds,” Howard said. “Because you can open the entire side of each greenhouse you get full access to your entire bed.”

Whether using the greenhouse on a raised bed or another spot in the garden, CGC’s greenhouses provide for maximum space efficiency — every square foot within the greenhouse can be used for plants. The optional shelves and benches can provide even more growing space.

The greenhouses come in four different models, which start at $449 for the SouthSider Junior — the smallest model that covers a 6-by-9-foot area. It and the slightly larger SouthSider (9 by 8.5 feet) maximize space by using the side of a building as support — ideal for the urban gardener with limited space. The Arch model is 9 feet by 12 feet and opens fully from either side, providing 100 percent access to the garden bed. The GardenPro model is the largest and highest-priced model at $995. It is 9 feet by 17 feet and features an 8-foot tall interior ridge and a door for added convenience.

The greenhouses’ hinge technology makes it convenient for use year-round. Gardeners can give plants full access to the elements by simply raising the ends, and closing the greenhouse provides shelter from too much rain, hail or snow as well as protection from animals.

“Our greenhouses are extremely flexible,” added Howard, “whether you’re in the North and want to get your seeds established before spring arrives or you’re in the South and want a more controlled environment for your flowers and vegetables.”

ORI in early 2011 became a joint owner of CGC.

The greenhouses can be ordered directly from CGC’s website at http://www.convertiblegreenhouse.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Allen Williams, industry consultant and contributor to the Grassfed Exchange, noted recently that the U.S. cow herd has fallen to its lowest levels since 1952, with the 2011 calf crop the smallest in the last 60 years.  “A significant portion of this decline is related to the severe ongoing drought experienced in major cattle producing states forcing producers in those areas to de-stock.  Due to cattle inventory decline coupled with high grain prices, negative feeder and packer margins will continue into 2012” says Williams.  Despite low inventory levels and woes for feedyards and packers, small processing plants catering to the local, sustainable, “Natural”, “Organic” and “Grassfed” markets are flourishing.  Williams notes that “retail scanner data shows that sales of fresh natural and organic beef increased by 4.2% in 2011” which is at four times the growth rate reported less than ten years ago. 

The Grassfed Exchange was established in 2009 to help cattle producers capture this growth in the natural and organic markets.  The most recent offering from the Grassfed Exchange is the unveiling of its theme and list of presenters for the 4^th Annual Grassfed Seminar to be held in Norfolk, Nebraska on September 20-22, 2012.  This year’s theme:  “Capitalizing on the Grassfed Revolution: Maximizing your Natural Resources While Unleashing your Marketing Genius” will focus on building forage quality necessary for a profitable and sustainable grassfed operation, the integration of multi-species as well as practical advice from top-line producers on how to direct market your grassfed product for greater returns.  The seminar will kick-off with guided bus tours to area ranches for a one-of-a-kind learning experience with two innovative producers who have made tremendous strides in forage quality and carrying capacity. 

The remainder of the event will be held at the Northeast Community College Ag Complex, located in Norfolk, Nebraska which is a premier indoor/outdoor facility for the event.  Cattle and multi-species grassfed animals will be on display throughout and specialized vendors who cater to the natural and organic markets will be present to provide information on their services.  Speakers for the event include nationally renowned experts in the grassfed industry such as, Dr. Garry Lacefield, Will Harris and Gabe Brown with an entertaining, yet informative, keynote presentation from Mark Schatzker, author of “Steak: One Man’s Search for the World’s Tastiest Piece of Beef”. 

Register now for the conference to reserve your place at the seminar.  For more information visit www.grassfedexchange.com or call Traci at 402-371-2932.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase.

DR® Power Equipment today marked the 25^th Anniversary of its DR® Trimmer/Mower by announcing that the wheeled string trimmer, which redefined lawn care for a generation of property owners while helping establish the Vermont company that produces it, will receive a powerful upgrade in 2012.

Introduced in 1987, the DR® Trimmer/Mower was the first gas-powered, wheeled trimmer available to consumers. Combining the best features of a hand-held trimmer and a bladed mower in an easy to use, powerful package, the machine quickly gained popularity among home and property owners who wanted a one-machine solution to their maintenance needs. Since then, more than 500,000 DR Trimmers have been sold in the United States, making it America’s #1 selling trimmer on wheels.

But the story of the DR® Trimmer/Mower is more than sales numbers.

“The DR® Trimmer is the product that put DR on the map,” said DR® Power Equipment President Joe Perrotto. “It helped transform DR Power Equipment from an industry newcomer, a small shop in Vermont with one product, to the respected American manufacturer we are today.”

Development of the DR® Trimmer was led by DR® Power Equipment co-founders Dick Raymond, Rich Alther, John Gibbons, and Lyman P. Wood, longtime friends and business partners who had all recently left positions at Garden Way, Inc., then producer of the well-known Troy-Bilt Tiller. The foursome hoped to use its extensive knowledge of gardening and country living to launch a successful new business based in Vermont. But there was one big problem: the group had nothing to sell.

Legal agreements with Garden Way, Inc. kept the group from developing a competing product for gardeners, so the men turned their attention to lawn and property care. Raymond and Wood developed the idea of mounting a rotating string trimmer on wheels; this, the two thought, would transform trimming into a less physically stressful task and ultimately eliminate the need for consumers to purchase both a lawn mower and a hand-held string trimmer.

Raymond and Wood called their new invention the DR® Trimmer /Mower and touted it as “The Greatest Breakthrough in Property Care Equipment since the Invention of the Power Mower Itself.” The DR® Trimmer remains one of the company’s best-selling products.

“Very few products enjoy 25 years of continuous production,” Perrotto said. “All of us here at DR® Power Equipment are humbled, and very excited to be celebrating this rare milestone.”

DR® Power Equipment currently offers three models of the trimmer/mower, each with the muscle to trim and mow in all conditions. The machine’s patented wide-body trimmer head prevents even waste-high grass from wrapping and jamming while the trimmer glides along on its front-mounted Mow-Ball® Support. Its simple controls allow users to trim and mow with precision, and oversized, easy-rolling wheels support the machine’s weight, sparing the user’s arms, neck and back.
The 8.75 PRO-XL model, to be released in spring 2012, is the most powerful DR® Trimmer/Mower yet. Available in push and self-propelled configurations, the PRO-XL is fitted with a Briggs & Stratton Professional Series Electric Start engine that delivers a whopping 8.75 FT. LBS. of Torque, more than enough power to handle high weeds and thick growth.

Though PRO-XL and other models may resemble the prototype built by Raymond and Wood 25 years ago, the latest DR® Trimmer/Mower is the result of years of testing and innovation. Every detail of this machine is designed to deliver rock solid reliability and unbeatable performance.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase.

DR® Power Equipment today introduced its new DR Versa-Trailer utility trailer by challenging consumers to test the new product’s “metal” with a unique trial offer.

During the month of March, DR Power Equipment will offer a special 1 year hands-on trial to anyone who purchases the Versa-Trailer directly from DR Power by March 29, 2012. The DR Versa-Trailer is a must-have accessory for ATVs and UTVs, as well as compact tractors. This new utility trailer can haul loads up to 2,000 pounds and is the first of its kind to offer a pivoting boom-lift, which makes loading and unloading heavy loads almost effortless.

Consumers who take the “Test our Metal” challenge can try out the new galvanized ATV dump trailer for 1 year from its ship date, and if they are not fully satisfied with the trailer’s performance, they can simply send it back for an exchange or a full refund of the product’s original price, less the standard shipping charges.

On top of its all-steel construction, the new utility trailer features the world’s first boom-lift that pivots to lift up to 440 pounds on either side of the trailer. The boom-lift can also be used to raise and lower the galvanized steel bed, which resists dents and rust. The bed itself can be removed (no tools required), quickly converting the trailer to a stake bed for harvesting trees or hauling long loads.

The trailer’s tandem wheels, which pivot on a single axle, allow it to “walk” over uneven ground, so owners can take it anywhere their ATV, UTV, or compact tractor will go. And unlike most poly or wooden ATV trailers and dump carts, the Versa-Trailer was designed with a rearward pivot point, which achieves a 35 degree dump angle for clean unloading every time.

Michael Johnston, DR Power Product Manager, said that he knows consumers will find the new trailer as rugged and versatile as he did testing it on his xx acre farm when he first evaluated its all steel construction and design.

“The Versa-Trailer is tested and proven,” Johnston said. “No other ATV utility trailer or dump wagon survived the rigorous testing our engineers put it through.”

Johnston continued, “DR Power only puts our name on the best, and the galvanized stainless steel Versa-Trailer is the best, most innovative utility trailer available.”

DR Versa-Trailer starts at a $2,199 list price, but beginning in 2012, introductory offers make this innovative dump trailer even more affordable. The trailer can be purchased at drpower.com/versa-trailer

DR Power also encourages owners who take the “Test our Metal” challenge to share video of their experiences on the company’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/drpowerequipment 

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

RFD-TV announces the return of American Dairy, the popular show produced from Fort Worth, Texas will begin airing Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. (EST) and repeats on Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. (EST).

The American Dairy is the first program dedicated solely to telling the story of America’s dairy farmers, the dairy industry and the journey of milk, from farm to fridge.  The producers of the program work with dairy producers from across the country to share stories and educate America on the importance of dairy.

The United States is home to over 60,000 dairy farm families producing almost 177 billion pounds of milk annually.1 The American Dairy show features small farms and families that have been in the dairy business for generations and new dairy facilities that are utilizing modernized milking techniques.

With less than 2 percent of the U.S. population involved in farming today, many people don’t have the opportunity to visit a dairy farm and most are three to four generations removed from the farm. “American Dairy’s goal is to bridge the communication gap and sort the fact from fiction,” said Joe Lichtie, president of Superior Productions. “The industry is more than just milk and viewers will see hard-working producers bringing wholesome dairy products to the table.” The American Dairy will cover topics from consumer nutrition to the environment and technology.

Source: Dairy Management Inc., National Milk Producers Federation, California Milk Advisory Board, Pennsylvania Center for Dairy Excellence.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Register today to cycle in America’s largest fundraiser for tree research, the STIHL Tour des Trees to benefit the Tree Research and Education Endowment (TREE) Fund, scheduled to roll through Oregon Aug. 5 to Aug. 11, 2012.

Profiled in the travel section of Forbes and on CNN, the STIHL Tour des Trees offers riders a unique opportunity to see the world from their bikes while contributing to tree research and education. This year, cyclists will be challenged with a 585-mile loop through Oregon, a “life list” ride that will showcase the region’s iconic scenery and diverse eco-zones. The Pacific coast, the Columbia River Gorge, vineyards, high desert and Mt. Hood will provide spectacular backdrops for a week of tree plantings, educational programs, community engagement and fun.

Riders for the full weeklong Tour commit to raising $3,500 for the TREE Fund. The $100 registration fee covers room, board, a custom apparel kit and full mechanical and rider support for the duration of the ride. A partial-Tour registration option also is available for those wishing to join the Tour for part of the week. Registration is open until May 28 at www.stihltourdestrees.org, or until the event reaches its 100-rider capacity.

The 2012 Tour marks the 20^th Anniversary of the first Tour des Trees, in which 13 cyclists pedaled nearly 1,000 miles from Seattle to Oakland in a week to raise money for tree research. The Tour will feature a one-day Ride for Research on Aug. 11 in Portland, and conclude with a Finale Celebration at the International Society of Arboriculture’s annual International Tree Climbing Championship. Local and recreational cyclists are invited to join the Tour for the day and celebrate its legacy during this ride through one of America’s best cycling cities.

Last year’s STIHL Tour des Trees raised a record-breaking half million dollars and planted 45 new trees during its weeklong trek from Virginia Beach to Washington, D.C. To date, the Tour has raised more than $5 million to support tree research and education and funded a variety of projects including improved strategies for pest and disease control, new techniques for increasing the post-planting survival rate of street trees, and development of safer equipment and practices for tree care professionals.

-Photo by Alvin Gilens

Photos and videos from previous Tours are available at http://stihltourdestrees.org/2011/10/2011-stihl-tour-des-trees-photo-gallery/. Learn more at www.stihltourdestrees.org.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

The Magnalight LED-BL-150W LED Light Bar from Larson Electronics’ produces over 14,000 lumens of light while drawing only 150 watts, making it an ideal replacement for metal halide and halogen boat lights. Designed for rugged operation and efficient high output, these LED boat lights provide high power light output with the low power requirements and durability boaters need for effective and reliable illumination.

The LED-BL-150W LED boat light from Magnalight.com produces 14,790 lumens of intense illumination yet uses far less power than comparable halogen or metal halide boat lights. Built for high output and durability, these LED boat lights also contain advanced pulse width modulation LED drivers that control heat, manage input current, and allow operators to optionally attach dimmers or external strobe controllers to provide precise control of light output and operating modes. These LED boat lights are ruggedly built, with aluminum housings and unbreakable polycarbonate lenses that offer IP68 rated waterproof protection and resistance to the damaging and corrosive effects of marine conditions. Thirty, 5 watt CREE LEDs paired with high efficiency optics produce a combined total of 14,790 lumens while consuming only 12 amps at 150 watts, making these LED boat lights far more efficient and powerful than comparable halogen boat lights. The LED-BL-150W LED boat light is equipped for versatile mounting with an adjustable trunnion style mounting platform that allows operators to securely attach these units to flat surfaces and adjust the fixture through 360 degrees of vertical movement once positioned in place without the use of tools. These LEDs lights are also capable of operating with a wide range of power sources and compatible with voltages ranging from 10 to 32 volts DC, making them ideal for boats where 12 and 24 volt electrical systems are most common. These high intensity boat lights will withstand vibrations, impacts, and extreme weather conditions that normal incandescent and glass bulb based lamps cannot, and are rated at 70% lumen retention after 50,000 hours of operation, making them far longer lived as well. The heavy duty construction and high power of the LED lights makes them ideal for a wide range of applications including boats, docks, marinas, shipyards, and even vehicles and ATVs.
 

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Fish extract products have been found to suppress important foliar diseases in organic blueberries, based on the results of a University of Georgia study.

Harald Scherm, a UGA plant pathologist, received a two-year $119,000 Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) grant to study the effects of fish product formulations on suppressing leaf diseases and pests, and improving foliar nutrition in organic blueberry trials in Georgia.

"Before we initiated the study, we received anecdotal evidence from some growers that fish products (oils and emulsions) provide some benefits," said Scherm. "So this study sought to kill three birds with one stone by developing an integrated system for disease, insect and nutrient management in organic blueberries using fish-derived products as a foliar spray."

Researchers found that the four of the six fish extract products they evaluated significantly suppressed Septoria leaf spot and leaf rust, two common diseases of organic blueberries. However, the impacts on controlling the leaf beetle pest and boosting foliar fertility were less clear.

"The impact of the fish products on the leaf beetle was inconsistent, and the products did show some benefits in boosting foliar nutrition, but more so for plants growing in low-fertility sites than for plants growing in soils with higher fertility rates," said Scherm. "With these results, we know that the products work in controlling disease pathogens."

Scherm said that research literature supports the theory that fish extract products have an indirect effect in controlling the disease pathogens by boosting the defense responses in the plant.

Diseases, like Septoria spot, attack the blueberry bush in late summer, after the blueberries have been harvested, which may explain why many growers dismiss or overlook the disease during production. However, Scherm said that growers should pay closer attention to such diseases, since they can cause significant leaf defoliation, impacting yields the following season.

"That lack of photosynthesis from absent leaves impacts the number of flower buds that are formed and, therefore, the amount of berries that are produced," said Scherm. "That premature defoliation and subsequent flower reduction further weakens the bushes and exposes them to more diseases and insect pests for the life of the plant."

Scherm said that he is pleased with the outcomes of the SARE study because it provides growers with a product labeled for organic use that can be used after blueberry harvest, unlike other natural products, such as microbial biofungicides. "We estimate that about 50 percent of organic blueberry producers in Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina now use fish products as a foliar spray and a fertilizer," said Scherm.

Scherm said that the next step in his research might be to trace the fish extract products back to their source and determine the sustainability of their production.

"It would be interesting to see what is actually used to make the products and where those ingredients are coming from," said Scherm. "Getting a handle on the sustainability of their production practices would be a good thing to do."

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (ALBC) today released its 23rd annual Conservation Priority List (CPL). The list is a tool for evaluating the level of endangerment of domestic livestock and poultry breeds throughout the United States. For 2012, there are 189 total breeds of livestock and poultry on the list, and 61 breeds are considered critically endangered.

“Many people are familiar with endangered species such as Siberian tigers, but they fail to realize that many domesticated breeds of livestock and poultry are suffering the same fate,” said Dr. Alison Martin, Research and Technical Programs Director for ALBC. For many of the breeds ALBC works with, there are fewer than 200 breeding animals left in the United States. “The Conservation Priority List helps raise public awareness that many historic farmyard breeds are disappearing from the agricultural landscape,” added Martin.

This year’s most dramatic change was the movement of the Newfoundland Pony from the Study category to the Critical category. Recent DNA investigations have shown that the Newfoundland breed has a unique genetic make-up and their numbers are declining, with fewer than 250 breeding animals left in the world. ALBC has shifted its conservation priorities to support the promotion and breeding of this critically endangered equine.

Aside from reporting conservation priorities, the list also reports conservation successes. Three rabbit breeds have improved their status on the list following an emerging trend in rabbit showing, keeping, and raising. In addition, the Myotonic or Tennessee Fainting goat has moved from the Watch category to Recovering. Many people know the breed for the unique stiffening characteristic it displays when alarmed, but more and more farmers are finding that the perpetual stiffening increases muscle size and creates an animal with a superb meat-to-bone ratio.

The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy publishes the Conservation Priority List once a year. The organization gathers census information from breed registries, through direct contact with breeders, and by international collaboration to determine a breed’s status. Guidelines have been established to define the conservation priorities.

“If you think about agriculture as a stock portfolio, you don’t want to invest all your money in just a few breeds. Diversifying your assets, through a variety of breeds, ensures genetic diversity and security for agriculture’s future,” said Charles Bassett, ALBC executive director. “The annual Conservation Priority List allows ALBC to assess the ‘breed portfolio’ and make the public and farmers aware of the critical importance of biodiversity in agriculture.”

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Wrangler® Specialty Apparel – the leader in western apparel and iconic American denim maker – announced today the launch of a new, expanded collection of outerwear for the hard-working man to wear while on the job, on the ranch or around the yard. Addressing the need to provide a consistent offering of outerwear to its loyal consumers each cold-weather season, the expanded line of protective garments are versatile to all working conditions and weather environments, designed with state-of-the-art materials and multipurpose features that stand up to a hard day’s work.

With more than 60 years of experience listening and catering to consumer needs, Wrangler tapped into extensive consumer insights to understand specific needs in functional apparel. The resulting outerwear line of apparel incorporates the highest-quality materials with functional features for a collection of jackets, coats, vests and shirt jackets that is durable, convenient and comfortable: 

• Teflon® Water Repellent Fabric – breathable fabric keeps the wearer dry and warmer during tough weather
• Superior Insulation – insulation fabrics and features including Sherpa lining, adjustable drawcord closures, and inner sleeve rib cuffs and hem allow for maintained body warmth
• Durability – heavier weight 100 percent cotton canvas fabrics and heavy duty materials allow each garment to remain resilient in the workplace
• Motion Fit Sleeves – allow exceptional arm movement
• Easy Care Fabric – 100 percent cotton fabrics resist wrinkles
• Inside Zip Security Pocket – a handy inclusion allows for the safety of smaller item

“When designing this collection, we kept the consumer’s needs and wants in mind and that meant designing tough items that work as hard as they do,” said Kaye Wyrick, senior merchandising manager, Wrangler Outdoor Brands. “Each feature – from the hood that easily fits over hard hats to the increased pocket size that allows for gloved hands – was chosen with him in mind so we can offer the best outerwear options possible.”

The complete Wrangler Outerwear collection including the Sherpa Lined Canvas Jacket, Sherpa Lined Hooded Jacket, Sherpa Lined Vest, Sherpa Lined Cargo Work Jacket, Sherpa Lined Cargo Vest, Insulated Work Jacket, Flannel Lined Shirt Jacket, Soft Shell Insulated Hooded Jacket, Soft Shell Insulated Jacket, and Canvas Chore Coat, officially hits shelves nationwide September 2012.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Creating a landmark legacy, Gerawan Farming has forever protected over 9,200 acres (more than 14 square miles) of fertile farmland in California's San Joaquin Valley. The Gerawan Family, farmers for nearly three-quarters of a century, has voluntarily placed this actively farmed land into a permanent agricultural conservation easement. The easement will be administered by the Wildlife Heritage Foundation, a non-profit, public-benefit land trust located in Lincoln, California and accredited by the Land Trust Alliance.

"Completing an agricultural conservation easement of this magnitude for actively farmed high quality ag land, as opposed to grazing lands, is monumental," stated Patrick J. Shea, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Wildlife Heritage Foundation. "Our organization was very fortunate to be selected to be part of this historic easement as this is the largest known agricultural easement of its kind in the state. Agricultural easements, such as this one, are very important to an overall conservation program. Furthermore, an easement of this size will make a historic difference for the agricultural landscape of the area known as 'the nation's food basket.'"

The California Department of Conservation defines an agricultural conservation easement as "a voluntary, legally recorded deed restriction that is placed on a specific property used for agricultural production." Traditionally, landowners place agricultural conservation easements on their property to ensure that agricultural lands remain in active production. This removes development pressures from the land and prohibits practices that could damage or interfere with the agricultural use of the land. The easement, a restriction on the deed of the property, remains in effect even when the land changes ownership.

Of the over 9,200 acres selected and placed into the conservation easement by the Gerawan Family, approximately 7,000 acres are located on the Gerawan's "West Side" ranches, located west of Fresno and south of the town of Kerman. The remaining 2,200+ acres, known as the Family's "River Bottom" ranches, are located east of Sanger and north of Reedley. These ranches are along the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and adjacent to the Sierra Gateway Scenic Highway 180. Many of the "River Bottom" ranches are contiguous to the renowned Fresno County Blossom Trail which is enjoyed each spring by visitors from throughout the nation.

Throughout its nearly 75-year history, Gerawan Farming has stayed true to its "family farm" roots and has remained passionate about quality and commitment to excellence. Ray Gerawan has continued the farming tradition started by his parents. Ray's sons, Mike and Dan, grew up working on the farm and now all three proudly operate this successful family business.

"Farming has always tied our family and community together," said Ray Gerawan. "Since the early years, when we planted our first trees in the river bottom area, my sons Dan and Mike and I, along with our dedicated employees, have all worked hard to ensure that Gerawan Farming is a name we're proud of. This conservation easement promises that the traditions we started many years ago continues for generations to come."

Ryan Jacobsen, Executive Director of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, emphasized the significance of this easement and stated, "Our organization has traditionally worked closely with Gerawan Farming. As a family business, the Gerawans have brought forward innovative agricultural practices and effective advancements to our valley. This unprecedented agricultural conservation easement will help ensure that our world-class ag lands will remain protected from development. We are thankful to the Gerawan Family for helping to promote and protect agriculture in our San Joaquin Valley."

Manuel Cunha, President of the Nisei Farmers League, agreed and added, "To protect farming on both the east and west sides of our valley ensures that the integrity of our world class agricultural production will be maintained, now and into the future.  This historic easement demonstrates a clear appreciation for agriculture and conservation." 

The Gerawan Agricultural Conservation Easement was recorded in Fresno County in December 2011.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase.