Cover Page USDA-AMS-FSMIP-2014 Title: Orchard Economic Assessment to Support Vermont Hard Cider Production Applicant: University of Vermont and State Agricultural College Project Leaders: Terence Bradshaw UVM Dept of Plant & Soil Science 63 Carrigan Dr Burlington, VT 05405 Dr. David Conner UVM Dept of Comm Dev & Appl Econ 205H Morrill Hall Burlington, VT 05405 University Grants and Financial Office: UVM Sponsored Project Administration 340 Waterman Building 85 South Prospect Street Burlington, Vermont 05405-0160 (802) 656-3360 phone (802) 656-8604 fax [email protected]
Transcript
Cover Page
USDA-AMS-FSMIP-2014
Title: Orchard Economic Assessment to Support Vermont Hard Cider Production
Applicant: University of Vermont and State Agricultural College
Debarment & Suspension Verification of Sub Recipients & Contractors……………...24
Letters from Third Parties who will Contribute Matching Resources………….……25-33
Letters of Support from Stakeholders and Beneficiaries.....................................34-36
USDA-AMS-FSMIP-2014
Orchard Economic Assessment to Support Vermont Hard Cider Production
University of Vermont PIs: Terence Bradshaw and David Conner
ABSTRACT
Apple production is a major component of the agricultural economy and working landscape in Vermont, and most fruit are grown for wholesale fresh apple markets and sold at commodity prices. Commercial hard cider production has seen growth of over 50% annually in the U.S. for the past four years, and presents a potential high-value processing market for apple growers. Significant expansion of commercial cideries has occurred in Vermont, including investments of several million dollars, supporting over 200 employees statewide. However, cideries in Vermont and nationwide are concerned that continued economic expansion will be limited by their ability to source apples for hard cider making. At the same time, some apple growers have begun to replace or renovate orchards with the intention of growing fruit for the hard cider market, which may be grown with reduced inputs because tolerance for cosmetic defects may be greater. Little research has been conducted in the U.S. on costs of production for apples grown for hard cider production, opportunities to reduce inputs and change management practices in cider apple orchards, or economic impact of cider apple production systems. This project proposes to conduct that research through collaborations with commercial apple growers and cideries in Vermont. Results will be shared with regional and national collaborators and through stakeholder partnerships.
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NARRATIVE
(1) Background and Justification
Hard cider production has increased dramatically in the U.S. in recent years, with a tripling of sales nationwide from 2007-2012 (Furnari, 2013) and the growth of the sector is recognized in the popular media (BBC, 2014; Modern Farmer, 2014). At the annual conference of the U.S. Association of Cidermakers in February 2014, cidery (i.e., facilities that produce hard cider) operators consistently stressed that the greatest limitation to maintaining future growth of their industry was the inability to source acceptable fruit for their products (Vail, 2014). Demand for fruit by cideries represents an emerging market for apple growers in Vermont and other regions to diversify their production and marketing systems. However, little research has been conducted on the economic feasibility of shifting production systems or planting new orchards to meet demands of cideries. The research proposed herein will evaluate production practices to produce apples for the hard cider market and determine potential crop yield, production costs, and price structures that will support orchard profitability while meeting the needs of growing cideries.
Apple production is significant in Vermont. From 2008-2012, the mean annual value of Vermont’s apple crop was $10.3 million farmgate dollars derived from average annual production of 847,000 bushels of fruit grown on 2,800 acres of orchard (NASS, 2013). This places apples as the third-most valuable specialty crop in Vermont after maple syrup and vegetables (USDA, 2012). However, production and value of the crop have decreased over that period, although year-to-year trends are difficult to analyze due to weather differences between years (NASS, 2013). While Vermont’s apple production ranked second among New England states over that period, its growers have received the lowest utilized price for bushel of fruit among the New England states (NASS, 2013). Few Vermont growers manage orchards specifically for production of processing fruit, with the overwhelming majority of apples grown for fresh consumption. Because of the state’s lower population density than the rest of New England, apple growers in Vermont rely on wholesale market channels for the majority of its fruit. Presently over half of Vermont apples are sold to wholesale markets through regional fruit brokers and direct store delivery routes (VTFGA, 2013).
In many seasons, pest outbreaks (i.e. apple scab, codling moth) and/or environmental factors (i.e. frost, hail, preharvest drop) reduce the value of commercial fresh market apples despite use of intensive management practices. Much of this damaged crop is salvaged via sales to fresh juice processors at an average cost of $3-4 per bushel, compared to $17-24 per bushel for fresh market fruit (NASS, 2013). Presently, orchards managed exclusively for cider apples are rare in New England, but processing (i.e. apple sauce, fresh juice, etc.) apples are grown in other northeastern states and are valued at $4.80 to $5.60 per bushel (Fruit Growers News, 2013). Quoted prices for processing apples are for fruit sold to apple sauce, juice, and baby food processors in New York, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, primarily, and represent a low-value commodity market for those fruit. While cideries in Vermont presently
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purchase fruit at juice prices from the spot market, specialty cultivars grown for cider production are increasingly being purchased for $6-25 per bushel (J Heilenbach, pers comm). ‘Cider orchards’, in which fruit is intentionally managed to produce a quantity and cultivar of apples at a certain quality standard intended for hard cider production, present a new production model that may increase markets for Vermont orchards. The research proposed herein will identify barriers to expanding the market for hard cider apples, which will facilitate expansion of cider orchards which will improve cider apple supply, reduce inputs (i.e., agrichemical, labor, and equipment use), and improve profitability for growers in predominantly rural communities who produce fruit for the value-added hard cider component of the local food system.
Vermont is in a unique position to assume a leadership role in research and outreach programs supporting apple growers and cider processors who pursue this new model. Not only does the state have significant and potentially underutilized fruit production capacity, but its hard cider industry is among the most significant nationally (BBC, 2014). Sixteen cideries are presently licensed to produce hard cider in Vermont (State of Vermont, 2012). Among these is the fourth-largest cider maker in the U.S., Vermont Hard Cider Company (VHC), which is the largest cidery that produces only ciders within its production portfolio (as opposed to large, national breweries that produce cider in addition to beer). The scale of VHC’s production is far beyond their ability to source all of their juice within the state, or even the region. In recent years, VHC has worked with local growers to develop specific products made from local fruit, and they are interested in expanding purchases, particularly via contract agreements (see letter of collaboration from VHC President and CEO Dan Rowell). Smaller, more regional scales of production are represented by other Vermont cideries, e.g. Citizen Cider and Stowe Cider Company which source fruit solely or primarily from local Vermont orchards (Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund, 2013). These and other Vermont cider makers are well-trained and organized. In, a USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant was secured by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture to host Peter Mitchell, a renowned U.K. cider industry consultant, who offered basic and advanced hard cider making for commercial processors to 30 enrollees each in 2009 and 2010. Those students and others who have completed Mr. Mitchell’s training form a well-trained group of stakeholders who are advancing the development of the hard cider industry in the state, region, and nation.
The timing of the research proposed herein is appropriate to address stakeholder needs. Mr. Bradshaw, co-PI of the proposal, is an early-career research faculty horticulturalist at the University of Vermont (UVM) with unique experience in hard cider production as proprietor of Lost Meadow Cidery (Calais, VT), and an interest in developing research and outreach programming that supports both the apple and hard cider industries. Co-PI Dr. David Conner and Research Specialist Florence Becot have extensive experience with economic analysis of horticultural production systems; they have expertise required to conduct analysis of cider apple production to identify best management practices that may increase profitability for growers of cider apples. Becot and Conner also have experience conducting economic impact
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studies focusing on the agricultural sector (Conner et. al., 2013; Becot et. al., 2012; Conner & Rangarajan 2008 ; Conner et. al., 2008). In addition, a national group of like-minded researchers, organized through involvement with the U.S. Association of Cider Makers (USACM) is presently developing a long-range research and extension program to support hard cider and cider apple production (Peck et al., 2014), for which this project will provide essential baseline data and methodologies that may be applied to other regions. Dr. Gregory Peck, Extension tree fruit specialist at Virginia Tech, states in his letter of support for this project, “the work proposed in this grant application will help increase the supply of affordable hard cider apples by identifying the characteristics that lead to high quality cider and the costs associated with producing fruit for this burgeoning industry. Increasing hard cider production in Vermont will provide an economic boost to the State’s rural communities. Mr. Bradshaw’s proposed research and outreach efforts would greatly benefit farmers and cider producers in Vermont, and elsewhere…I have been a colleague of Mr. Bradshaw’s for many years and can attest to his experience and expertise with apple production in all of its complexity, including insect, disease, and weed management, and horticultural practices. Additionally, Mr. Bradshaw has extensive knowledge about hard cider production, from variety selection through to fermentation practices, which he has gained from his personal farm operation and his professional experiences. Indeed, Mr. Bradshaw is one of the few scientists in the United States who is currently conducting research into hard cider production…With Mr. Bradshaw’s research and cider production experience, I have full confidence in his ability to fulfill the objectives outlined in his grant proposal. Being awarded a [FSMIP] grant will allow Mr. Bradshaw to investigate economically sound practices for producing hard cider and allow apple growers in Vermont to be more sustainable.”
In a stakeholder survey conducted at the 2014 USACM cider conference, attended by over 400 cider makers and fruit growers from across the U.S., 90% of respondents indicated they would like more research by university scientists into cider production, 87-95% were willing to participate in research experiments in their orchard or cidery, and 54-60% were willing to fund research that targeted their needs (Miles & Peck, 2014). This national network of researchers and stakeholders provides an effective means through which to increase the impact of this project beyond Vermont. Thus, this project represents a unique collaboration between grower and cidery stakeholders, resaerch and outreach faculty at the Univerity of Vermont (the State Agency responsible for the project), and regional and national researchers and stakeholders who will additionally benefit.
Research and outreach priorities in Vermont also strongly support this project. The 2013 Vermont Apple Industry Strategic Plan (VTFGA, 2013) proposes to increase research on opportunities and challenges in growing high-value processing fruit. The Vermont Farm to Plate Strategic Plan , a transdisciplinary effort which unites food systems practitioners including farmers, consumers, food distributors, and support providers “to develop a 10-year strategic plan to strengthen Vermont’s food system” (Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund, 2012). This effort is recognized nationally and is being considered by other states as they plan food
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system developments (Carter, 2013). In Chapter 3.3, “Food Production: Hard Cider, Spirits, and Wine”, stated research and outreach needs include: “…conduct economic analysis of cider apple production and procurement for multiple orchard types (e.g. high-value specialty fruit; low-input, high quantity ‘base’ fruit’, preharvest dropped and hail or otherwise damaged fruit from present orchards managed for fresh fruit markets); [and] develop enterprise budgets for cider fruit options.” These research priorities have been developed with significant input from stakeholders including farmers, researchers, Extension personnel, food systems practitioners, and food distribution specialists and are the primary guide for research and outreach programs within Vermont.
Cideries are concerned with potential lack fruit supply to maintain their growth, since, at this point, few orchards are specifically growing fruit on a contract or other basis to supply cidery supply needs. This requires cideries to source off-grade fruit from packinghouses, hail or pest outbreak-affected orchards, or preharvest drops. Under the fresh market production model, apple growers make tremendous efforts to minimze these reduced-quality fruit, and so the industry that provides raw materials to cideries is fundamentally at odds with them. Cideries require multiple apple cultivars for their products, including lower-grade fruit from traditional commodity cultivars (i.e., McIntosh, Cortland) as well as specialty-grown dual-purpose cultivars (i.e., Idared, Northern Spy) and specific cider apples with unique flavor, acid, and tannin characteristics (i.e., Dabinett, Golden Russet) (Leger, 2010; Moulton, et.al., 2010; Valois, et. al., 2006). In addition, apple growers produce fruit under several orchard types, including low-density (number of trees per acre), high density, and reduced-input production systems (Moulton et al., 2010; Robinson, 2003).
In response to demand from hard cider companies, Vermont orchards are cautiously expanding cider apple production. For example, two of Vermont’s largest wholesale orchards in Addison County have recently planted or will be planting in 2014 orchards of purpose-grown cider fruit, and one orchard greatly expanded its cider processing capacity with support from a Vermont Working Lands Investment Fund grant specifically to support the hard cider market (Suhr, 2013). However, growers express uncertainty with economic projections of expanding into specific cider apple production. For this project, five commercial orchards have committed to in-kind participation with research protocols in order to expand the knowledge base on economic analysis of cider apple production. Participating growers are poised to invest significantly in this new production model, and include some of the state’s largest orchards in addition to smaller operations that already market fruit to cideries (see letters of collaboration from Champlain, Green Mountain, Happy Valley, Kent Ridge, and Sunrise Orchards, and letter of support from Citizen Cider Company). Because of this concentration of activity by cideries and growers willing to plant or manage cider orchards in the state, all field activities within this project will occur within Vermont, but outreach activities and materials will be disseminated region-wide since cider apple production is expanding in other states and the knowledge and information generated from this project will be of value throughout the region.
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We estimate that in Vermont alone 30 apple growers all of the state’s 16 cideries will be affected by this research project. Vermont apple growers have expressed overwhelming interest in this research, especially as a means through which to increase returns for lower quality cider apples that presently are sold to juice processors (Bradshaw & Berkett, 2013). The potential for increasing the value of Vermont processing apples is significant. In a review of fresh market and processing apple utilization from 2003-2011 by New England Agricultural Statistics (NASS, 2012) 23 percent of Vermont apples grown for the fresh market were downgraded to processing fruit, with an average annual value of only $587,000 (as opposed to average annual value of fresh market apples of $9.4 million annually). Mean price received for processing apples was $0.073 per pound or $3.05 per bushel. If growers can sell those fruit to cideries for $6 per bushel, the immediate economic impact to the industry would be over $500,000. However, this assumes only that presently downgraded fruit are sold to cideries for a higher price as a result of this research. Vermont apple growers are interested in expanding cider apple production beyond utilization of low-quality fruit, and wish to adopt orchard production systems specifically capitalize on demand for fruit from commercial cideries. It is this growth that would represent the greatest potential economic impact from this research. Prior to 2010, very little fruit from Vermont orchards was processed into hard cider; in 2013, Citizen’s cider alone used over 30,000 bushels of fruit in its cidermaking, and VHC has orders in with orchards to supply up to 300,000 bushels of local fruit if it could be produced for a fair price to both growers and the cidery (D. Rowell, pers. comm.). If a $6 per bushel price were assumed for fruit sold to just these two cideries, that would represent an estimated $2 million in annual sales to growers. Economic impact would also be realized from cidery employment, sales, and taxes, from juice processors, and from associated infrastructure. This impact will be analyzed in the proposed project.
In order for apple growers to adopt management practices specific to producing fruit for the hard cider market, comprehensive analysis of production costs and fruit pricing are needed. While considerable research and extension efforts have been applied to the processing fruit industries in the mid-Atlantic and Great Lakes regions (Crassweller & Greene, 2003), little economic analysis has been conducted on fruit grown for cideries. Cultivar preference for cider apples may be very different than those used in the processing industry (Rowles, et. al., 2001), and fruit defects that downgrade processing fruit may be acceptable for hard cider production (Harper & Greene, 1993; Lea, 2010). Researchers in Virginia have conducted a feasibility study for cider apple production for that region (Farris, et. al., 2013), but assumptions were made for per-bushel price that may not reflect actual willingness or ability for cideries to pay. A similar project was conducted in Western Washington State with similar limiting assumptions; he authors of its report conclude, “Currently, there are no published statistics or reports on the prices, production and utilization of cider apples in Washington. Further research work is warranted to examine the supply of and demand for cider apples in the state. No other recent assessment of costs of production and pricing models for purposely-grown cider apples has been conducted in the U.S.” (Galinato, et. al.,
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2013). Cost of production and pricing research for cider production from Europe is also limited. The French National Establishment for agricultural and sea products has identified a research need to lower cost of production in all aspect of cider production FranceAgriMer (2012) yet little data on cider cost of production in France has been located.
(2) Other Grant Programs
This proposal, which will inform and support other nationally-oriented efforts to conduct hard cider and cider apple research and outreach (Peck et al., 2014), has not been submitted to another Federal grant program.
(3) Goals, Objectives, and Work Plan
The goals of this project are to:
1) Quantify production costs for apples managed specifically for hard cider production;2) Identify fruit quality and yield characteristics of apple cultivars suited for hard cider
production;3) Assist in the development of more efficient marketing methods, practices and facilities to
bring about more efficient and orderly marketing of cider apples, and reduce the price spread between growers and cideries, and;
4) Quantify the economic impact of hard cider and cider apple production on rural Vermont economies.
Information developed from the project will be used to facilitate increased adoption of management systems to increase availability of fruit to cideries in Vermont, and to identify future research and outreach areas such as cultivar selection, orchard design, pest management, and grower-cidery contracts that support stakeholder needs. This data will be used to calculate the economic impact of the project on the cidery industry in terms of sales and jobs. We will achieve these goals via the following objectives:
1. Evaluate production costs to produce apples grown for processing into hard cider.2. Quantify per-acre yield and fruit quality of cider-grown fruit in diverse orchard systems.3. Identify orchard management practices that may be modified to enhance profitability of
cider apple production systems.4. Calculate economic impact on the cidery industry using different scenarios based on the
results of the above objectives.
Our analysis will compare the costs of production of three cultivar categories: (i) commodity cultivars; (ii) dual purpose cultivars; and (iii) specific ‘cider cultivar’ orchards, grown under diverse management systems. Two Vermont commercial orchards with each cultivar type will be analyzed, one each representing low-intensity and high-intensity production systems (Robinson, 2003). Methods will follow standard enterprise budgeting methods (Nordquist, et.al., 2013) and modified for intensive on-farm measurement such as in studies in
Production costs will fall into three main categories, and will be measured on a per plot basis, then adjusted to per acre
Fixed costs, including tree establishment, land, equipment, machinery, storage and transportation, all amortized to years of service
Input costs, including fertility, pest management and irrigation
Labor and variable machinery costs, broken down into major tasks (including pruning, spraying, harvest)
At the beginning of the project (September-November 2014) Conner and Becot will interview participating farmers and analyze current cost measurement practices. In the meantime they will conduct a comprehensive secondary data analysis of cider apple production in Europe, mainly focusing on France and England. Analysis will consider unique components of cider apple production in those countries, including harvesting equipment, costs of production and contract types. In December and January they will build on and harmonize farmers’ current methods to develop proposed protocols, which will be vetted by farmers and adapted as needed. In February and March 2015, farmers will be trained in their use; farmers will collect data from April to November 2015 (end of harvest). Farmers will be provided with a daily activity log to record input purchases/uses and labor by tasks. Each month the farmers will send the log and a summary sheet to Conner and Becot, who will enter data into a spreadsheet. Total harvests will be weighed by Bradshaw and costs summed to calculate costs ($) per pound. Results will be shared with and vetted by farmers after harvest; protocols will be improved as needed and used to collect a second year of data (2016). Figures from a recently purchased commercial cider press will be used as a proxy for per gallon pressing costs. Distribution costs to a central pressing facility will also be included.
Analysis will consist of comparing and contrasting across systems and plots. Specifically, costs per acre and per pound will be calculated for each major activity and cost category (fixed, input and labor) on each plot. This comparison is likely to reveal key differences which suggest efficiencies and inefficiencies which can then be addressed by growers (Conner & Rangarajan, 2008; Waldman et al., 2012).
In addition, at the beginning of each project year, Conner and Becot will collect price data from growers and cideries throughout the state. A model developed by regional distributor Red Tomato will be used (Stevenson & Lev, 2013). Each grower and cidery will be asked to name three prices. First is the desired price, the price they reasonably hope they can receive or pay, respectively. Second is the average price they have received or paid over recent years. Third is the dignity price, the lowest or highest price they can receive/pay with dignity, i.e., without feeling exploited. These prices will be compared to each other to identify the bid-ask gap, if
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any, and compared with production costs to see if improved efficiency can close the gap and contribute to mutual profitability.
Cider apple yield and fruit quality will be measured by Bradshaw in each season using established methods (Bradshaw et. al., 2013; Valois, et. al., 2006). Within each cooperating orchard, a randomized sample of trees (n ≥ 5) for each cultivar will be selected and harvested fruit weighed to calculate yield per acre. For each cultivar, ten fruit per replicate will be selected and juiced. Collected juice will be analyzed for soluble solids (fermentable sugar, ° brix), titratable acidity, pH, and total phenolics. An assessment of insect and disease damage incidence and other defects will also be conducted on harvested fruit.
The economic impact of the project on agricultural producers will be calculated during the last year at the farm level (micro) and at the industry level (macro). At the micro level, revenue and profit scenarios will be calculated using the newly created enterprise budgets for the three production systems as well the different level of price data that will have been collected from growers and cideries. The micro level analysis will allow us to further understand which production system will yield to greater profitability. At the macro level, an input-output model to calculate the economic impact of the cider industry on the state of Vermont. Data will be entered from the micro level scenarios in IMPLAN and measure direct and indirect income and job creating resulting from the cider industry (Mulkey & Hodges, 2004).
(4) Project Evaluation, Outputs, and Expected Outcomes
Direct beneficiaries of this project will include apple growers, cideries, and researchers working on cider apple and hard cider production. Rural communities will also benefit from employment opportunities and diversification of the working landscape which will be quantified through this research. New England growers presently have few outlets for low-grade fruit because markets are largely dominated by fresh juice processors that pay low prices for apples (VTFGA, 2013; NASS, 2012). However, increased production of hard cider in the region represents an opportunity to increase prices to growers for processing fruit. By shifting some orchard production to intentionally-grown ‘cider apples’, growers may secure contracts with cideries to guarantee markets for that portion of their crop. This would allow for greater cider product diversification while reducing inconsistencies in fruit supply and quality that processors must cope with annually (Mainville & Peterson, 2005; Rowles, 2000). Hard cider production is a rapidly growing industry in New England, and national production has tripled since 2007 (Hirsch, 2013). Producers including Citizen Cider (Burlington and Middlebury, VT) and Vermont Hard Cider Co. (Middlebury, VT) are undergoing significant expansion of facilities and hiring new workers, but they are concerned about procuring a consistent supply of fruit (J. Heilenbach, D. Rowell, pers. comm.).
Outputs:
1. Enterprise budgets for production of cider apples in the northeast US
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2. Research-supported list of potential management strategies or areas for continued research to increase adoption of cider apple production.
3. Development of a listing of apple cultivars suited for hard cider production and associated fruit quality characteristics.
4. Development of comprehensive methods for economic evaluation of cider apple production.
Expected outcomes
1. Apples grown under reduced-input systems for sale to cideries will expand by 100% over the length of the project.
2. Purchases of Vermont apples by commercial cideries will expand by 100% over the length of the project.
(5) Project Deliverables
Expected deliverables resulting from this work include:
1. Enterprise budgets for production of cider apples in Vermont for use by commercial fruit growers.
2. Quantification of economic impact of cider production on the producers and on Vermont economy.
3. Presentation to growers on project results at professional industry meetings (Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association winter meeting, New England Vegetable and Fruit Conference, and/or USACM Cider Conference).
4. Comprehensive protocols for use by other research scientists in the region and nationally to conduct cider apple economic evaluation studies.
5. Publication of project results in a peer-reviewed journal (e.g. HortTechnology)
(6) Outreach Plan
Results from this project will be widely disseminated through existing University and industry outreach platforms. The UVM Apple program maintains a website (http://www.uvm.edu/~fruit/), online blog (http://blog.uvm.edu/fruit/), and email list with over 350 subscribers. Annual educational meetings will be held each year in February in Vermont that are typically attended by approximately 60 fruit growers, and biannual meetings of the New England Vegetable and Fruit Conference are attended by over 1200 growers. Project results will be presented at the meetings and in other outreach materials. The PIs will also present results from this project at the annual USACM Cider Conference. The Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association (VTFGA), established in 1897, publishes a monthly newsletter for Vermont apple growers which will also be used to publish project results. VTFGA Executive Director Steve Justis, a retired market development officer for the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, will contribute in-kind support for the project by communicating project results and coordinating grower cooperation via VTFGA communication platforms.
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(7) References
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Becot, F., Conner, D., Kolodinsky, J., & Mendez, V. E. (n.d.). Measuring the costs of production and pricing on diversified farms: Juggling decisions amidst uncertainties (Accepted for Publication 2013). Journal of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.
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Furnari, C. (2013, 2013 3 June). Craft Cider Gaining Momentum. Retrieved November 19, 2013, from: http://www.brewbound.com/news/craft-cider-gaining-momentum
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Modern Farmer. (2014). America’s Hard Cider Boom Has One Problem: Not Enough Apples. Retrieved 27 May 2014, from http://modernfarmer.com/2014/04/americas-hard-cider-boom-one-problem-enough-apples/?utm_source=Modern+Farmer+Newsletter&utm_campaign=d97acbe009-Weekly_11_1511_15_2013&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e8a89c7e43-d97acbe009-75466625.
Moulton, G. A., Miles, C. A., King, J., & Zimmerman, A. (2010). Hard Cider Production & Orchard Management in the Pacific Northwest. Pacific Northwest Extension Bulletin PNW621.
Mulkey, David, and Alan W. Hodges. Using IMPLAN to assess local economic impacts. Mimeo, Department of Food and Resource Economics, Gainesville FL, 2004. Reteived June 12, 2014 from: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/fe/fe16800.pdf.
NASS. (2013). New England Fruits and Vegetables 2012 Crop. G. R. Keough (Ed.) New England Agricultural Statistics, Concord, NH. Retrieved June 12, 2014 from: http://www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/New_England_includes/Publications/05frtveg.pdf
NASS. (2012). Annual Bulletin, New England Agricultural Statistics, 2012. G. R. Keough (Ed.) New England Agricultural Statistics, Concord, NH. Retrieved June 12, 2014 from: http://www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/New_England_includes/Publications/Annual_Statistical_Bulletin/Apples2012.pdf
13
Nordquist, D., McCamant, T., Moynihan, M., & Kuntz, G. (2013). Minnesota Specialty Crops: An Analysis of Profitability and Performance 2009-2012. Retrieved May 25, 2014 from: http://www.mda.state.mn.us/~/media/Files/food/organicgrowing/specialtycrop2009-12.ashx
Peck, G., Miles, C. A., Bradshaw, T., Conner, D., Ferreira, G., Galinato, S., Kelly, M., Rothwell, N. & Tozer, P. (2014). Creating InterDisciplinary Extension and Research (CIDER) to Redevelop the North American Hard Cider Industry. USDA-NIFA-SCRI Planning Grant.
Robinson, T. (2003). Apple Orchard Planting Systems. In D. Ferree & I. Warrington (Eds.), Apples: botany, production, and uses (pp. 345-407). Cambridge, MA: CABI.
Rowles, K. (2000). Hard Cider & Apple Wine. Cornell University Department of Agricultural, Resource, and Managerial Econonics Staff Paper SP-2000-06. Retrieved May 25, 2014 from: http://dyson.cornell.edu/research/researchpdf/sp/2000/Cornell_Dyson_sp0006.pdf
Rowles, K. L., Henehan, B. M., & White, G. B. (2001). Thinking Afresh About Processing: An Exploration of New Market Opportunities for Apple Products. Cornell University Department of Agricultural, Resource, and Managerial Econonics Staff Paper SP-2001-03. Retrieved May 25, 2014 from: http://dyson.cornell.edu/research/researchpdf/sp/2001/Cornell_Dyson_sp0103.pdf
State of Vermont. (2012). Manufacturers licensed to manufacture alcoholic beverages in the state. Retrieved May 25, 2014, from http://liquorcontrol.vermont.gov/sites/liquorcontrol/files/Downloads/manufacturer.txt
Stevenson, S., & Lev, L. (2013). Mid-scale food value chains case study : Red Tomato. Madison WI. Retrieved from May 25, 2014 from: http://www.cias.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/rb82-2final.pdf
Suhr, B. (2013). Expanding Vermont's Cider Apple Supply Chain. Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Initiative Grants Program. http://workinglands.vermont.gov/sites/ag_wlei/files/Champlain%20Orchards3.pdf
USDA. (2012). Census of Agriculture. Retrieved 10 June, 2014, from http://www.agcensus.usda.gov/Publications/2012/index.php
Vail, R. (2014). Cider market overview: We are going to need a bigger orchard. Lecture presented at the 2014 USACM CiderCon, Feb 6 2014, Chicago, IL.
Valois, S., Merwin, I. A., & Padilla-Zakour, O. I. (2006). Characterization of fermented cider apple cultivars grown in upstate New York. Journal of the American Pomological Society, 60(3), 113-128.
Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund. (2012). Vermont Farm to Plate Strategic Plan Chapter 2- Getting to 2020: Goals for Strengthening Vermont's Food System. Retrieved May 25, 2014 from: http://www.vsjf.org/assets/files/Agriculture/Strat_Plan/Chapter%202_Getting%20to%202020_Low%20Res.pdf). Montpelier, VT.
Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund. (2013). Vermont Farm to Plate Strategic Plan Chapter 3.3 Food Production: Hard Cider, Spirits, and Wine. Retrieved May 25, 2014 from: http://www.vtfoodatlas.com/assets/plan_sections/files/3.3_Food%20Production_Cider-Spirits-Wine_DEC%202013.pdf). Montpelier, VT.
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VTFGA. (2013). Strategic Planning for the Vermont Apple Industry: Planning for Success in the 21st Century. Retrieved May 25, 2014 from: http://www.uvm.edu/~orchard/VT_AppleStratPlan_131111.pdf.
Waldman, K. B., Conner, D. S., Biernbaum, J. A., Hamm, M. W., & Montri, A. D. (2012). Determinants of Hoophouse Profitability: A Case Study of 12 Novice Michigan Farmers. HortTechnology, 22(April), 215–223.
15
USDA FSMIP: Orchard Economic Assessment to Support Vermont Hard Cider ProductionProject PIs: Terence Bradshaw and Dr. David ConnerBudget Spreadsheet and Narrative
16
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TOTAL REQUEST for Years 1&2 [9/30/2014 – 9/29/2016]: $ 75,380TOTAL NON-FEDERAL MATCH: $75,605
YEAR 1 REQUEST - 9/30/2014 – 9/29/2015: $36,458A. Senior/Key Person Salaries: $9,211Mr. Terence Bradshaw is requesting funds to support a 2.5% commitment of his time to the project as project coordinator and horticultural specialist. In addition, 10% of his effort is being proposed as a non-federal match.Dr. David Conner is requesting funds to support a 33% commitment of of his summer effort (1-month) to the project as economics specialist. In addition, 10% of his academic year effort is being proposed as a non-federal match.B. Other Personnel Salaries: $9,607Funds are requested to support one technician, Florence Becot, (12-mo appt.) for 17% FTE effort on the project. Effort will support development of protocols, economic data collection, summary, analysis, and evaluation. Funds are requested to support a second unassigned technician (12-mo apt.) for 8% FTE effort on the project. Effort will support horticultural and fruit quality data collection and summary.C. Fringe Benefits: $7,697. Institution FY 15 rate of 41.8% less unallowable tuition remission (0.9%).E. Indirect CostsSponsor: Indirect cost rate at 37.5% (30% of total budget). Requesting: $9,943
YEAR 1 NON-FEDERAL MATCH: $36,999F. PI Salary and Fringe: $18,181G. Non-Federal Unrecovered: $6,818. Institution rate of 37.5% on matched salaries.H. Materials & Supplies: $1500 (non-federal match). For supplies and equipment as needed to implement research including: lab supplies; office and computer supplies; maintenance/replacement of digital technology (computers, camera, software, printers); internet/library/journal access charges; data analysis; photocopy charges, etc. Funds are pledged from cooperating partner Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association ($1500).I. Cooperator support: $8000 (non-federal match). Five cooperating fruit growers each pledge $1200 (40 hours @ $30 per hour) in-kind support to participate in data collection. Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association pledges $2000 in support for Executive Director stipend to facilitate grower and cidery outreach communications.J. Travel1. Domestic Travel Costs: $2500 (non-federal match). To help defray transportation costs to cooperator sites and to attend regional and/or national workshops/conferences (i.e., mileage at the UVM standard rate of $0.565/mile; meeting/workshop/conference costs such as lodging, meals, airplane tickets, registration costs, etc.). Funds are pledged from cooperating partners Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association ($500) and Vermont Hard Cider Company, LLC ($2000).
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YEAR 2 REQUEST - 9/30/2015 – 9/29/2016: $38,922A. Senior/Key Person Salaries: $9,562Mr. Terence Bradshaw is requesting funds to support a 2.5% commitment of his time to the project as project coordinator and horticultural specialist. In addition, 10% of his effort is being proposed as a non-federal match.Dr. David Conner is requesting funds to support a 33% commitment of of his summer effort (1-month) to the project as economics specialist. In addition, 10% of his academic year effort is being proposed as a non-federal match.B. Other Personnel Salaries: $9,985Funds are requested to support one technician, Florence Becot, (12-mo appt.) for 17% FTE effort on the project. Effort will support development of protocols, economic data collection, summary, analysis, and evaluation. Funds are requested to support a second unassigned technician (12-mo apt.) for 8% FTE effort on the project. Effort will support horticultural and fruit quality data collection and summary.C. Fringe Benefits: $8,250. Institution FY 15 rate of 43.3% less unallowable tuition remission (0.9%).D. Publication Costs: $600. Covers page charges for publication of research results in a peer-reviewed journal.E. Indirect CostsSponsor: Indirect cost rate at 37.5% (30% of total budget). Requesting: $10,615
YEAR 1 NON-FEDERAL MATCH: $38,605F. PI Salary and Fringe: $19,349G. Non-Federal Unrecovered: $7,256. Institution rate of 37.5% on matched salaries.H. Materials & Supplies: $1500 (non-federal match). For supplies and equipment as needed to implement research including: lab supplies; office and computer supplies; maintenance/replacement of digital technology (computers, camera, software, printers); internet/library/journal access charges; data analysis; photocopy charges, etc. Funds are pledged from cooperating partner Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association ($1500).I. Cooperator support: $8000 (non-federal match). Five cooperating fruit growers each pledge $1200 (40 hours @ $30 per hour) in-kind support to participate in data collection. Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association pledges $2000 in support for Executive Director stipend to facilitate grower and cidery outreach communications.J. Travel1. Domestic Travel Costs: $2500 (non-federal match). To help defray transportation costs to cooperator sites and to attend regional and/or national workshops/conferences (i.e., mileage at the UVM standard rate of $0.565/mile; meeting/workshop/conference costs such as lodging, meals, airplane tickets, registration costs, etc.). Funds are pledged from cooperating partners Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association ($500) and Vermont Hard Cider Company, LLC ($2000).
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Terence Lee BradshawCurriculum Vitae
Department of Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont Burlington, VT 05405(802) 922-2591 [email protected]
Education Ph.D. candidate Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont. Expected completion May 2015.Dissertation title: Comprehensive assessment of five apple cultivars grown under two organic management systems in Vermont, 2006-2013.
M.S. Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont. 2011. Thesis title: Assessment of kelp-extract biostimulants in a temperate-climate organic apple orchard
B.S. Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont, 1997.Concentration: Sustainable Tree Fruit and Viticulture W.H. Darrow and C. Lyman Callahan Horticultural awards, 1996-1997.
Current Rank:
Research Associate. July 2014 to present. Tree Fruit and Viticulture Specialist.Dept of Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont.
Research Specialist. July 1999 through June 2014. Dept of Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont.
Assistant Director. October 2005 to present. Horticulture Research and Education Center, College of Agriculture and Life Science, University of Vermont
Responsibilities:Design and implement apple and grape horticulture and pest management research and outreach programs in support of commercial growers in the state and region, including: Development and delivery of outreach materials on horticultural and pest management topics including
articles, newsletters, lectures, workshops, and one-on-one consultations with tree fruit and viticulture industry stakeholders.
Development and implementation of: USDA-funded multistate Organic Apple Research and Outreach Program initiated 2006; research programs studying new winegrape cultivars for Vermont (NE 1020) and environmentally sound management practices (Achieving Adoption of Ecologically-Based IPM and Reducing Pesticide Risks in Cold Climate Winegrape Production in Northern New England, US EPA); implementation of NE-183 Apple Cultivar and NC-140 Apple Rootstock evaluations, 1999-2009
Overall management of research orchards and vineyard including: planting, pruning and training trees and vines; pesticide application and recordkeeping; upkeep of irrigation and weather data collection equipment; maintenance of orchard and spray equipment; fertility management; and harvest.
Director of 100-acre agricultural research facility in South Burlington, VT. This position reports to the Associate Director of the Vermont Agriculture Experiment Station. Duties include: Director or Catamount Educational Farm, a model working fruit and vegetable farm that supports teaching,
outreach, and research activities for Specialty Crops at UVM. Provide leadership in development and operational planning for facility and serve as primary contact person
for management issues. General oversight of the facility including grounds management, security issues, pest control, equipment maintenance and operation.
Teaching ExperienceCourses Taught
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PSS 209 Sustainable Farming Practicum. Course co-developer and co-instructor. Summer 2014. PSS 195 Sustainable Orchard and Vineyard Management. Course developer and instructor. Summer 2014. PSS 195 Cold Climate Viticulture. Course developer and instructor. Summer 2012. PSS 195 Tree Fruit Culture. Course developer and instructor. Summer 2010. Master Gardeners’ Basic Course. Fruit Trees in the Home Orchard. 2006-2008. Guest lecturer on orchard, vineyard, and farm management for nine PSS and other CALS courses.
Undergraduate Students Advised Zachary Noel, 2013 UVM Distinguished Undergraduate Research Award. “Evaluation of the Efficacy of Natural
Resistance in ‘Honeycrisp’ to Reduce Fungicide Applications for Venturia inequalis (Cooke) Wint. Co-advisor. Scott Welch, 2014 UVM Environmental Studies Program Senior Thesis. “Common Ground Composting: Back-
haul of food scraps for the improvement of soil conditions on a small community supported agriculture farm.” Co-advisor.
Funded Projects Apple Market Optimization and Expansion through Value-Added Hard Cider Production. Vermont Working
Lands Enterprise Initiative, June 2014 - Sep 2015. $40,000 ($10,000 matching funds grant from Vermont Hard Cider Co.) D. Conner, Co-PI.
NE-1020 Multi-State Evaluation of Winegrape Cultivars and Clones. Vermont Agriculture Experiment Station Hatch Grants Program, Oct 2014-Sep 2017. $75,000.
Biological Management of Apple Replant Disease. Northeast SARE Partnerships Grant Program, May 2014 – April 2016. $14,314.
The Transdisciplinary Vermont Extension IPM Program Addressing Stakeholder Priorities and Needs for 2013-2016. USDA NIFA EIPM Program. Sep 2013 – Aug 2016. $312,500 ($83,776 for Specialty Crops Emphasis Areas Apple and Grape).
Improved Technical Support Programming for Vermont Apple Growers. USDA/Vermont Agency of Agriculture Specialty Crops Block Grants Program. Oct 2013 – Oct 2014. $10,000.
Upgrading Vermont Weather Stations to Improve Crop Pest Management. USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant, administered through USDA to Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association. T. Bradshaw, President and Grantee. July 2011 – July 2013. $11,000.
Modernization of Research Orchards at the UVM Horticultural Research Center. USDA/Vermont Agency of Agriculture Specialty Crops Block Grants Program to Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association. T. Bradshaw, President and Grantee. Dec 2009 – Oct 2012. $19,950.
Establishment of On-Farm Weather Stations and IPM Modeling Systems for Vermont Orchards. USDA/Vermont Agency of Agriculture Specialty Crops Block Grants Program to Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association. T. Bradshaw, President and Grantee. Dec 2009 – Oct 2012. $10,000.
Project Technical Consultant Poultry and Grape Sector Business Model Research & Development. Primary Investigator: Mark Cannella, UVM
Extension. 2014 Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Fund Service Providers Grants. Evaluation of Apple and Pear Varieties for Cold Humid Climates under Certified Organic Management. Primary
Assistant Professor, Community Development andApplied Economics
INSTITUTION AND LOCATIONDEGREE
(if applicable) MM/YY FIELD OF STUDYPenn State, University Park, PAUniversity of Vermont, Burlington VT Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
B.S.M Ext EdPh.D.
05/8705/9705/02
ScienceExtension EducationAgricultural Economics
A. Personal StatementI have been engaged as a practitioner and scholar in food systems since completing my undergraduate degree in1987: as a farm worker, organic farm marketing manager, Peace Corps extension educator and trainer, and recently, academic. Both my research and practical experiences have spanned the food systems form farm to fork. I have 26 peer reviewed journal articles, have done numerous invited talks, served as reviewer on grant panels and eight professional journals. I have been the PI on more than $500,00 worth of competitive grants.
B. Positions and Honors Assistant Professor, Department of Community Development and Applied Economics and Management,
University of Vermont, 2010-present Assistant Professor (fixed term), C. S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems, Department of
Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies, Michigan State University, 2009-2010. Research Specialist, C. S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems, Michigan State University, 2004-
2009. Research Specialist, Emerging Markets Program, Northeast Organic Network (NEON), Department of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, 2002-2004
Serves as member of advisory board of Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems and Community Development. Served as reviewer for the following journals: Journal of Rural Studies; Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems and Community Development; Agriculture and Human Values; HortTechnology; Journal of Rural Social Sciences; Journal of Food Distribution Research;Community Development; Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems and Community Development; Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems, Sustainability, and Food Policy. Served as a reviewer of grant proposals for: USDA- AFRI “Prosperity for Small and Medium Sized Farms” program panel; Techinical Review Panel for USDA People'sGarden School Pilot Program; review panel for USDA Small Business Innovation Research; North Central RegionSARE and reviewer of applicants for the MSU Product Center Business Awards
Fellow, Center for Sustainable Agriculture, University of Vermont, 2011-2013Council Member, Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society, Chair, Membership (2011-2013)Coordinator, NC1036, “Research and Education Support for the Renewal of an Agriculture of the Middle”, 2009-2010
Member, American Applied Economics Association and Food Distribution Research Society
C. Research SupportCurrent Support From Milking to Marketing: Evaluating and Promoting Animal Health, Milk Quality and Food Safety for
Vermont’s On-Farm Artisan Cheese-makers and Value-Added Dairy Producers. University of Vermont, 2012-2015. (Barlow, PI, Conner, Heiss et al. Co-PIs). $300,002
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Synergies and Trade-Offs Between Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Policy, Governance and Agricultural Practice in the Lake Champlain Basin (LCB) of Vermont. University of Vermont, 2012-2015. (Mendez, PI, Conner, Zia, Koliba et al., Co-PIs). $447,704.
Fostering sustainable livestock production in Vermont: Prospects for value-chain partnerships. VermontAgricultural Experiment Station, 2012-2014. (Conner, PI). $34,905
Food system engagement and dietary decisions: quantitative inquiry. Vermont Agricultural ExperimentStation, 2012-2014. (Conner, PI). $11,239
Enhancing the Sustainability of Food Systems through Service-Learning-Based Education and Outreach. USDA NIFA, Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, 2011-2014. (Conner, PI and Williams Howe, Co-PI). $300,233.
Farm-to-Institution: Guiding Marketing and Pricing Decision for Small and Medium Sized Farms. USDA AFRI Prosperity for Small and Medium Sized Farms. 2010-2012. (Conner, PI; Matts and Hamm, Co-PIs). $ 331,800.
Past Support Sustainable Agriculture 2009: Developing Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems. USDA CSREES Special
Research Project. 2009-2011. (Hamm, PI; Conner and Smalley, Co-PIs). $247,988. Business Plan Development for Hoop House. Project GREEEN. 2009-2010. (Conner, PI). $22,000. Enhancing Small and Medium Farm Viability Through Season Extension Technologies. USDA CSREES NRI
Small and Medium Scale Farm Viability Program. 2006-2009. (Conner,PI; Hamm, Co-PI), $269,000 Marketing Pasture-raised Animal Products: Guiding Promotion and Pricing. USDA Sustainable Agriculture
Special Project. 2006-2007. (Conner, PI). $20,000
D. Selected Peer-Reviewed Publications LeBlanc, J., Conner, D., McRae, G. and Darby, H. (Accepted for publication March 7, 2014). Building
Resilience in Nonprofit Food Hubs. Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development. Conner, D., Sevoian, N. Heiss, S. and Berlin, L. (Published Online January 9, 2014). The Diverse Values and
Motivations of Vermont Farm to Institution Supply Chain Actors. Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Ethics.
Becot, F., Conner, D., Kolodinsky, J. and Mendez, V. (Accepted for publication November 30, 2013). Measuring the costs of production and pricing on diversified farms: Juggling decisions amidst uncertainties. Journal of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.
Getter, K., Behe, B. Howard, P. and Conner, D. (2014). Pasture-raised milk: the market for a differentiated product. Journal of Food Products Marketing 20:146–161.
Conner, D., Estrin, H. and Becot, F. (2014). High School Harvest: Combining Food Service Training and Institutional Procurement. Journal of Extension 52 (1) 1IAW7. http://www.joe.org/joe/2014february/iw7.php
Thilmany, D., Conner, D., Curtis, K., Liang, K., Mulik, K., O’Hara, J., Sullins, M., & Woods, T. (2013). Researching market and supply-chain opportunities for local foods systems: Setting priorities and identifying linkages. Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development. Advance online publication. http://dx.doi.org/10.5304/jafscd.2013.034.018
Buckley, J., Conner, D., Matts, C. and Hamm, M. (2013). Social relationships and farm-to-institution initiatives: complexity and scale in local food systems. Journal of Hunger and Environmental Nutrition 8 397-412.
Kahler, E., Conner, D., Sawyer, S. Hoffer, D., Berlin , L. and Becot, F. (Accepted for publication February 20, 2013). "Economic opportunity in local food systems: baselines and targets" Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems and Community Development.
Becot, F., Nickerson, V., Conner, D. & Kolodinsky, J. (2012). Costs of Food Safety Certification on Fresh Produce Farms in Vermont. HortTechnology, 22(5). 705-714.
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Florence A. BecotCenter for Rural StudiesUniversity of Vermont
Expertise with quantitative and qualitative research methods as well as in geographic information systems analysis and economic impact studies. Software used for research include: ArcGis, EndNote, HyperRESEARCH, IBM SPSS, IMPLAN, Lime Survey, Microsoft Word, Excel and Power Point, QSR NVivo
Professional experience prior to master’s degree includes: program development and management, relationship development and, staff management.
EDUCATION
Masters of Science: January 2013University of VermontDepartment of Community Development and Applied Economics
Concentration: Farmer Profitability, Sustainable Agriculture, and Food SafetyThesis: Making a Living Growing Vegetables in Vermont: Doing the Math for Long Term Profitability and SustainabilityAdvisor: Dr. David S. Conner
Bachelor in Economics and Social Sciences, 2006University of Rennes 1, FranceDepartment of EconomicsSenior year abroad: Western Washington University, Washington State
Concentration: International Economics, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Spanish
ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE
Research Specialist, January 2013-PresentUniversity of Vermont, BurlingtonCenter for Rural Studies
Develop grants and projects proposals including identify client groups, assess needs, create collaborative agreements, formulate strategies for addressing client needs, and develop project budgets
Develop project designs, research methodologies, quantitative and qualitative instruments including surveys, interviews and focus groups
Conduct focus groups and interviews. Supervise administration of phone and online surveys Develop and manage database for project data, records and information Use software to conduct analyses including SPSS (quantitative analysis), ArcGIS (geospatial
analysis), IMPLAN (economic impact analysis) and HyperRESEARCH (qualitative analysis) Disseminate research findings to clients, stakeholders and the general public through reports,
journal articles and presentations.
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Research Assistant, 2011-2012University of Vermont, BurlingtonDepartment of Community Development and Applied Economics
Designed and implemented web surveys and in-depth interviews Conducted quantitative statistical analysis and qualitative analysis Disseminated research findings through presentations and peer-reviewed journal articles
Teaching Assistant, 2011-2012University of Vermont, BurlingtonDepartment of Community Development and Applied Economics
Teaching Assistant, 2004–2005University of Rennes 1, FranceDepartment of Economics
RELEVANT PEER REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS
Becot, F., Conner, D., Kolodinsky, J. and Mendez, E. (In Press). Measuring the Cost of Production and Pricing on Small Diversified Farms: Juggling Decisions Amidst Uncertainties. Journal of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.
Conner, D., Becot, F., Hoffer, D., Kahler, E., Sawyer, S., and Berlin, L. (2013). Measuring current consumption of locally grown foods in Vermont: Methods for baselines and targets. Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems and Community Development, 3(3), 83-94.
Becot, F., Nickerson, V., Conner, D. and Kolodinsky, J. (2012). Cost of Food Safety Certification on Fresh Produce Farms in Vermont. HortTechnology 22(5). 705-714.
ACADEMIC AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
Advisory Board Member (2013 – Present). Burlington Area Community Gardens, Burlington, Vermont.
Committee Member (2012). Food Systems Spire: Rural Communities and Regional Economics Assistant Professor Search Committee. Community Development and Applied Economics Department, University of Vermont.
Volunteer Bike Mechanic (2011 – 2013). Bike Recycle Vermont, Burlington Vermont.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Member of the Agriculture Food and Human Values Society (2012 – Current)
Member of the American Society for Horticultural Science (2012 – Current)
Member of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association (2013 – Current)
24
USDA-AMS-FSMIP-2014
Orchard Economic Assessment to Support Vermont Hard Cider Production
University of Vermont PIs: Terence Bradshaw and David Conner
Debarment and Suspension Verification of Sub Recipients and Contractors
For this project, no sub recipients or independent contractors will be utilized or receive program funds. Should sub recipient or contractors be required to carry out the objectives of the project, any prospective sub recipient or contractor must register with SAM. Before engaging them with the project, we will determine their status with regard to suspension and debarment.
