Ken Hoffman talks with Michelle Pages, President of the Kodiak Chapter of The Alaska Farm Bureau

Tarn Coffey on growing corn in Alaska.

Abby Austin, Executive Director, and Margaret Adsit, Lands Program Coordinator and Alaska Farmlink Director discuss the work and goal of Alaska Farmland Trust

Leah Corbin and Kelly Marciales from Spring Creek Farm join host Ken Hoffman on Ag Matters.

They discussed some of the programs run at the farm. The Tilth program helps farmers by purchasing seconds and "ugly vegetables," which are then distributed to local food banks or food programs. The Food Forest takes food that grows and is foraged on the trails and makes it easier to access. Contact Alex Wilson, Agriculture Education Coordinator, agwilson@alaskapacificuniversity.edu, for information about farm days and student tours.

Mike Jipping from Beach Tribe Soda Works joins host Ken Hoffman on Ag Matters.

Beach Tribe Soda Works started in 2017. Mike saw a need for a non- alcoholic beverage with less sugar and more adult flavors. The Original Jipping Ginger Beer is a Cold-Pressed Ginger, Lemon, Habanero, and Raw Honey drink. It was their first product and is still their most popular flavor. Beach Tribe Soda Works also creates juices that are only sold at the South Anchorge Farmers Market. The flavors change every week and season as they use the fruit, vegetables, and herbs that are available at the farmer's market.

Host Ken Hoffman talks with Paul Cook, owner of the Northern Lights Elk Ranch on Ag Matters

Paul Cook bought the ranch 4 years ago. They have 125 acres for hunting, 11 pastures, for a total of 315 acres. All hunts are guided, and you won't need a hunting license. You are guaranteed an animal.

They sell elk meat with the butchering done in the fall. They sell the meat in quarters. Order early as they run out every year. They use the antlers to make dog treats. Chicken and turkey are also available.

To learn more, check out their website at: https://www.northernlightselkranchofalaska.com

Dave Thorn of Delicious Dave Catering joins host Ken Hoffman on Ag Matters to discuss his use of local foods. He tells us where we can find and buy local foods. Dave also explains why they are better, not only the taste and nutrition, but also economically. Delicious Dave is a catering and traveling chef based in Anchorage, Alaska. He specializes in using locally grown produce, seafood, and meat.