Browse by Topic: Adaptation Practices

A comprehensive resource on infrastructure considerations when building new or remodeling an existing cow housing facility.

A short visual guide to manure management and other livestock production environmental issues, including nutrient management and application, managing public perception, best management practices in production areas, and infrastructure and facility practices.

Participate to understand current research, available technologies, future possibilities, and the benefits and costs of small-scale manure digesters. Learn about REAP program eligibility, application deadlines, program grant and loan opportunities and how existing digesters used REAP as part of their funding package.

Participants will learn how energy-oriented design and operation can impact the resilience (the capacity to recover quickly from challenges) and long term success of farm operations, as well as identify common energy strategies for farm viability and resilience.

Farmers today face rising energy costs and uncertainty about future energy policies that affect agriculture. Many farmers are responding by improving the energy efficiency of their operations and exploring alternatives to traditional fossil fuels such as wind, solar, and biofuel crops. Improving nitrogen fertilizer use efficiency is another important strategy. Fertilizer cost is important because it is tightly linked to energy prices, and excessive applications increase the release of nitrous oxide (N2O), a very potent greenhouse gas (GHG). This fact sheet addresses efficient fertilizer management, infrastructure changes, and best management practices for farmers that make economic sense and also address concerns about GHG emissions and climate change.

High tunnels and greenhouses provide protection for crops, extend the growing season, and improve yield and quality. However, climate change brings both a higher frequency and increased intensity of extreme weather events. It is important to think about how high tunnel structures can best be built and modified to endure the extremes. The information below is a summary of experiences shared by the growers of the Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association (VVBGA).

A short guide to types of high tunnel structures, greenhouses, and special considerations for high tunnel production. These include variety selection, fertility management, pest management, water management, temperature management, marketing and economics, and crop storange and processing.

The Delaware State University (DSU) Outreach & Research Center provides a demonstration of high tunnel designs and best practices for small farmers to protect and improve their operations in a changing climate.

A summary of how a handful of RI vegetable farms used high tunnels to adapt to a changing climate, including season extension, summer shade, and protection from heavy rains.

Heat stress in dairy cattle is one of the leading causes of decreased production and fertility in dairy cattle during summer months. These losses are apparent in the decreased amount of milk shipped, increased days open and decreased breedings per conception. Some heat stress is unavoidable, but effects can be minimized if these best management practices are followed.

A comprehensive resource on infrastructure considerations when building new or remodeling replacement/heifer housing.

As the climate continues to change, food security will likely remain an issue. Urban food hubs like the East Capitol Urban Farm can help mitigate the effects of warming temperatures and precipitation extremes.

University of Rhode Island is conducting research and outreach on high tunnel production and summer cover crops to help farmers tackle both the risks and opportunities posed by climate change.