Marin Farm News November 2009

President Obama ate and enjoyed Drakes Bay Oysters at a special luncheon at the White House on July 21st. The oysters were served in the “California Picnic” starter menu.The new From the Farm to Your Table: A Consumer's Guide to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (ANR publication 21643, ISBN 978-1-60107-610-6), is $7.00 and can be ordered by calling 1-800-994-8849 or by logging onto www.ucanr.org/farmtotable.
Deborah Walton of Canvas Ranch has been invited to present her research into the use of Babydoll Southdown sheep to graze vineyards and orchards at the Western SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education) conference in Visalia December 1-3. Deborah received a SARE grant in 2004 and since then, the use of this rare, heritage breed of sheep has gained enormous attention from the agricultural community.
This year the cheesemakers at Cowgirl Creamery, under the direction of Eric Patterson, developed WAGON WHEEL, the latest addition to their lineup. The 25-pound wheel is aged for two months and has a mild, nutty flavor. Their holiday catalog has arrived and can be viewed online at www.cowgirlcreamery.com or can be ordered by calling 866-433-7834.
The Marin Economic Commission awarded Cowgirl Creamery, Chris Giacomini of Toby's Feed Barn, and four other local organizations the 2009 Awards of Excellence for their "contributions to a vibrant and sustainable Marin County economy" at a November 13 luncheon.