State of Indiana sent this bulletin at 05/29/2020 08:12 AM EDT
On May 22, most of Indiana entered Stage 3 of the Back on Track Plan. Campgrounds, gyms and community pools have begun to open with restrictions as we enter the summer months. Playgrounds, movie theaters and festivals still remain closed. Find more up to date information on Indiana’s Back on Track Plan here. Additionally click here for Governor Holcomb's Executive Order 20-28 outlining reopening Indiana in Stage 3.
It is no secret that farming can be challenging, both physically and mentally. Fluctuating markets and unfavorable weather are just a few of the uncertainties that cause mental strain on producers across our state. It is important to know that there are resources available to help manage the stresses that accompany farming. You do not have to go it alone.
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture will be accepting submissions for the 13th annual Indiana agriculture photo contest starting on June 1, 2020. The contest is open to Indiana residents and was created to recognize the hard work and contributions of Hoosier farmers, as well as the beauty of the state’s agricultural landscape.
In total, ten winners will be selected: two from each category and two overall. Winners will be recognized at a later date, following the guidance of state and local regulations. Contest winners will have their photographs featured in the offices of the Lt. Governor’s Family of Business in Indianapolis.
Participants are encouraged to submit photos that reflect the wide array of agriculture. The categories photos can be entered under are:
Conservation: Highlighting Indiana’s natural beauty with photos of landscapes, water and wildlife.
Agritourism: This category includes seasonal and agricultural destinations, orchards, wineries, farmers’ markets and produce photos.
Faces of Agriculture: Featuring those who grow and produce food, fuel and fiber engaged in farming/agricultural activities.
On the Farm: Every building, piece of equipment or activity that is a part of life on an Indiana farm can be included.
Photos will be evaluated based on creativity, composition and category representation. Entries must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. (ET) on June 30, 2020.
Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) applications are now being accepted for producers affected by COVID-19. Contact your local FSA office to apply. For more information visit: https://www.farmers.gov/cfap
Recently, the Indiana State Department of Agriculture added several new staff members.
Aubrey Bush joined our Grain Buyers Division as the first Operations Specialist. Aubrey is originally from Kentucky and graduated from the University of Kentucky. Currently, she lives in Franklin with her husband and their 1 year old son. They own and operate a small mum and produce farm. Aubrey is most looking forward to a new experience of assisting Indiana's grain producers.
Shelby Huff joined us as the Deputy Legislative Affairs Director. Shelby is from Lebanon and grew up on a family farm. She graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017, and has spent the past two years serving as a Legislative Assistant in the Indiana State Senate. She looks forward to working with ISDA in the area of Legislative Affairs, and is excited to be back in the Agriculture world.
Haley Mood joined us as the Deputy Communications Director. She is a recent May graduate from Purdue University. Haley currently resides in North Salem and is excited to join the team to help continue to move Indiana agriculture forward.
