Jill Moe

Director of the Desert Farming Initiative

Office: (775) 682-9783
Mobile: 775-233-0677
Email: jmoe@unr.edu
Building: Knudtsen Resource Center
Address: 1664 N. Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada 89557
Department: Desert Farming Initiative
Download Electronic Business Card OR vCard

Summary

Jill has a a Master certificate in sustainable agriculture from Washington State University’s global campus, Master degree in environmental policy from the University of Washington, and 25 years of experience in her fields of study. Jill comes from a family with agricultural roots in the Midwest and became interested in desert farming as a US Peace Corps agroforestry volunteer in West Africa. She has managed large scale watershed planning and regional natural resource management projects, and has hands-on experience in market farming in the US and Europe. Her key interests are in supporting small farm resiliency and building healthy food systems. Current research focuses on cover cropping in vegetable production systems, and perennial fruit production in the high desert.

Education

Diploma: Woodbury High School, MN, 1989 (Colegio Internacional de Caracas 1986-1988).
BA political science and Spanish: Univ. of WI-Madison, 1993 (Universidad de Sevilla, spring 1992).
MPA: Univ. of WA-Seattle, 1997. Master certificate sustainable ag.: WA State Univ., 2018.

Programs
Teaching
Service
Publications

Programs

About DFI

The Desert Farming Initiative is a diversified commercial farm at the University of Nevada, Reno which serves as a demonstration, education, outreach and research farming program.

Academic Student Internships

Come learn with us! The Desert Farming Initiative offers for-credit internships for University of Nevada, Reno students. Email tgogna@unr.edu for more information.

Ag workforce development

DFI creates opportunities for new and aspiring farmers to receive intensive on-farm training, and/or expand fruit and vegetable operations. Opportunities include formal farm apprenticeships and commercial farm incubators. Both foster the transfer of agricultural skills through farmer-to-farmer mentorship — building a stronger Nevada food system.

Career Opportunities

Interested in working for DFI?

Healthy Meals with Limited Kitchen Access

Peruse a list of easy, healthy recipes! These don't require a full kitchen and focus on adding nutritional value to low cost meals.

On-Farm Food Safety Strategies

The Initiative's Food Safety Program provides resources for growers throughout the state of Nevada. The Initiative partners with the Nevada Department of Agriculture to demonstrate produce safety practices, share guidance and provide training.

Orchard and Vineyard Research

Read more about the orchard and vineyard projects being conducted in Northern Nevada.

Organic Plant Nursery

Providing high-quality organic plants starts for commercial farms, large gardens, schools and nurseries. All plant starts are grown in the Initiative's certified organic greenhouse.

Organic Training Farm

Learn about the Training Farm and where DFI fruit and vegetables are available.

DFI staff at farmers market next to produce table

Regional Food Security Initiatives

DFI partners to address food insecurity through statewide programs, and directs fresh fruit and vegetables to food pantries.

Small Farm Resiliency Strategies

Small farm resiliency strategies aim to link fruit and vegetable growers to the best available regional information and decision-making tools on an ongoing basis, as well as sharing practical guidance.

Student Employment

These positions are only available to University of Nevada, Reno students.

The Team

Volunteer Opportunities

Are you interested in getting your hands dirty and want to learn how to grow fruits and vegetables?

Courses

Jill oversees academic and competitive paid internships for UNR students, conducts extension for fruit and vegetable growers, and builds programs to train the next generation of Great Basin small farmers.

Honors and Awards

Henry M. Jackson Fellowship for Natural Resource Management, 1993

Service

US Peace Corps volunteer

Restoration and conservation volunteer for natural resource agencies and non-profit organizations

News & Journal Articles, Fact Sheets, Reports...

Blog Posts
Learning and Collaboration through Agricultural Communications I’m graduating this month from the University of Nevada, Reno and am proud to reflect on one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic career—my agricultural communications internship with the Desert Farming Initiative. Gogna, T. 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blog
Where Studies Took Root: My Summer on the Farm As a plant science student, I joined DFI’s summer farm crew to move learning from the classroom to the field. I explored pest management, tomato grafting, and soil health, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable farming that continues to shape my academic and personal journey. King, C. 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blog
From Propagation Intern to Farm Hand: Lessons in Desert Farming From interning in propagation to staying on as a DFI farm hand and moving from greenhouse prep to fieldwork. I learned desert-smart practices like soil health and cover cropping, while experiencing both the struggles and joys of farming—failure, resilience and the small moments that make it rewarding. Osgard, J. 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blog Post
Soil Science for Plant Health I have enjoyed applying knowledge from past and present soil courses in the DFI greenhouse! Osgard, J. 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blogs
Summer Cattle Health Issues Summer generally benefits cattle health, but certain issues can arise. Calves may face pneumonia, diphtheria, pinkeye, or coccidiosis, and heifers can be affected by tick-borne Foothill abortion. Monitoring conditions, flies, dust, and water quality supports herd well-being. Shane, T., McCuin, G. 2025, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, Blogs
A Producers Guide to Forage Testing Forage testing provides measured values for protein, fiber, moisture, and energy in hay, helping producers understand feed quality. The results guide ration planning, support herd health, and improve feeding efficiency throughout the year. Waaswa, A., and Shane, T. 2025, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, Blogs
Proactive Climate Smart Farming DFI has taught me so much in how to partake in smart climate farming. I have learned lot especially about water management and how to give back to the soil with planting different varieties. Bower, A. 2024, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blogs
Dietetic Internship at DFI! Many people can have a vital role in maintaining a sustainable food system, including dietitians. I visited DFI this Spring as a part of my two week self-select rotation to work alongside food system leaders. Leftwich, S. 2024, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Putting Plant Science to Practice My organic farming internship at the Desert Farming Initiative has been an amazing experience allowing me to learn and grow alongside the crops. The sense of pride and accomplishment is indescribable. Mackessy, V. 2024, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Spring 2024 Organic Farming Internship I can positively say that the DFI internship is one of the best real-life experiences available to agriculture students at UNR! McCarthy, S. 2024, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Spring 2024 Plant Propagation Internship Seeing the greenhouse now fills me with an incredible sense of accomplishment. We started the season from scratch and I was able to see the fruits of my labor (literally) as the weeks progressed this spring. Smerdon, P. 2024, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Respecting Indigenous Knowledge While interning for the Food Sovereignty Program at DFI, I was able to learn the importance of respecting Indigenous knowledge. During my first weeks, I got to go to a pine nut gathering with my elders and other Native students. This was one of the most incredible experiences i have ever gotten to be a part of. Vargas, N. 2024, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
The Greenhouse is a Living Creature - Trishtin Lieu's 2023 AmeriCorps Service at DFI My favorite part of my AmeriCorps service was being able to provide momentary distractions from other life stress to those who worked with me in the greenhouse. To see people’s faces when they walked in and took a stroll through the greenery in awe just meant a lot to me. Lieu, T. 2023, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
SNAP work and snap peas: Anna Zoeters completes AmeriCorps service! I have gained so much respect for growers... Zoeters, A. 2023, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Ginny-Mei completes AmeriCorps service this week! One of the first things I started in the greenhouse were Calibra and Cabernet Onions for DFI. I then moved on to leafy greens, chives, melons, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, artichokes, flowers, herbs, and beets... Adams, G. 2022, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Allison Bunyan Completes AmeriCorps Service! My position with DFI has allowed me to gain a greater understanding of food insecurity, climate-smart agriculture, food production, produce safety, and what goes into supporting a food system... Bunyan, A. 2022, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Wildlife Conservation and Food Safety on the Farm: Co-Management! Everett Cook, a UNR student focusing on wildlife ecology and forestry, is earning credit at DFI this summer. Read about his academic internship on co-management... he'll be posting all season! Find out more about DFI internships by emailing dfi@unr.edu. Moe, J. 2022, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Pesa Natumusuano'o Year (A Good Growing Year) My favorite thing we have done in this project is the feast which we had on October 18th. We were able to invite students and those who have helped us as guests and also as participants. A crucial part of this event was to serve indigenous foods, including from the plants we have gathered. Owyhee, L., Smartt, T. 2022, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Making Desert Ambrosia: An Atypical Crush Wine grapes can grow well in Nevada – trust me! I'm a student intern at UNR's Desert Farming Initiative focusing on perennial crops. I've been working with Riesling grapes as well as apple varieties that are found throughout Northern Nevada. Read more about my first wine crush... Peters, B. 2022, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Climate Smart Farming Internship Soil health is the foundation of a sustainable and productive farm, and monitoring your soil conditions offers insights into ways you can improve your farm management to leave the land better off than when you found it. Learn more about our work on this and other climate smart farming topics... Peters, B., Croskery, C. 2022, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blog Post
Making Produce Work Smarter Growing a single tomato requires a lot of effort: someone has to seed it, maybe graft it, prep a bed, plant it, weed it, harvest it, pack and deliver it - not to mention the water, soil nutrients and fuel required. This is why it is so important to ensure produce is being utilized efficiently. Read more! Zimmerman, B. 2022, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Anna Miller Completes 1 Year of AmeriCorps Service! What a year I’ve spent with the Desert Farming Initiative! I am a University of Nevada, Reno graduate with degrees in Ecohydrology and Spanish. Out of college I found myself wanting to apply my knowledge of natural systems in a way in a way that more directly benefited people. Miller, A. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Climate Modification Using High Tunnels in Western Nevada What are high tunnels and why do growers use them? Read more in this recent Extension publication based on DFI's indoor vegetable production... Moe, J. 2021, University of Nevada, Reno Extension
Noelle Tegano Completes AmeriCorps Service! Working at DFI as an AmeriCorps member has allowed me to have a safe and encouraging environment to grow in alongside amazing plants and an awesome crew. As the Farm and Food Safety member I received the opportunity to be trained and learn the ins and outs of best practices. Tegano, N. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Jen Weeks Completes AmeriCorps Service! I started at Desert Farming Initiative six months ago with no prior farming experience. With the patient guidance of the Farm Manager, Tanner, and my fellow coworkers, I can confidently complete all farm tasks and teach others as well! Weeks, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Packaging for Produce Safety and Sustainability Last season DFI started making the switch from single-use plastic packaging and bags to more sustainable options. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blog
The geese are... back. DFI pulled out all of the stops to discourage their activity: low flagging, reflective tape, row cover, a motion activated sprinkler and coyote decoys (repositioned daily). Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blog
Third-Party Audits: produce safety practices According to the recent assessment of food safety practices on 1,000 farms in the US, most farms have not had a third party audit and many were confused about what an audit is. This article explains it all! Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Blog
Bulletins
Nevada Farm Apprenticeship Program Application Learn the details of the Nevada Farm Apprenticeship positions and application process. Moe, J 2024, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
2024 Farm and Food Security Assistant – AmeriCorps Service Member The Farm and Food Security Assistant will serve as a core member of the 2024 farm team, and will assist with coordination of the Farm to Food Pantry program at DFI. Join our team! Moe, J. 2023, Desert Farming Initiative
Curriculum Materials
For-Credit Internship: On-Farm Produce Safety The purpose of this On-Farm Produce Safety internship is to provide undergraduate students with specialized professional training and applied knowledge in a brief time frame. Moe, J. 2021, Experiment Station, Univerity of Nevada, Reno
Informational Publications
What is Value-Added Agriculture? Value-added agriculture increases the worth of farm products by changing their form, improving how they’re produced, or marketing them to capture higher value. It helps farmers boost income, diversify operations, and strengthen local and rural economies. Agricultural Marketing Resource Center (AgMRC) 2025, Agricultural Marketing Resource Center; 2025
Cottage Food Operation Registration Process The Central Nevada Health District explains how to register as a cottage food operation under Nevada law. Eligible producers may sell certain non-potentially hazardous foods from a private residence, at farmers markets or craft fairs—provided they follow registration, labeling, and venue restrictions per NRS 446.866. Central Nevada Health District (CNHD) 2025, Central Nevada Health District (CNHD); 2025
Value-Added Products This CISA resource page provides guides, kitchen-access lists, legal advice, and links to funding or grants for farmers and producers aiming to start or expand value-added food products. It covers processing requirements, food-safety considerations, commercial kitchen access, and regulatory/marketing support. Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) 2025, Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture (CISA); 2025
Benefits of Organic Farming Organic farming delivers strong economic and environmental benefits. Certified producers earn premium prices, access growing markets and support local jobs. Organic practices improve soil health, boost biodiversity and protect water quality, creating resilient farms and healthier ecosystems. Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Farmers' Markets and Organics Certified organic sales exceed $50 billion annually and continue to grow. Demand spans grocery stores, restaurants, farm stands and farmers markets. Certification expands a farm’s customer base, verifies product integrity and earns premium prices. More resources for market managers are available. Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Grow Organic Nevada Mentorship Program Grow Organic Nevada connects experienced certified organic farmers with those transitioning to certification. Mentors earn $3,000 and provide on-farm support, while mentees receive 40 hours of guidance, a $500 stipend and help with compliance. Apply to become a mentor or request one today. Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
How to Become Organic Certified Transitioning to organic takes three years of following USDA rules before products can be labeled organic. Farms, handlers, processors and vendors earning over $5,000 in organic sales must be certified. After meeting all standards and passing inspection, products may carry the USDA Organic label. Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Organic Production Record Keeping Organic crop producers must keep detailed records for five years, including seed sourcing, input applications, field activities, compost data, harvest logs, sales records and audit trails. Maps, soil tests, receipts, labels and protocols to prevent contamination are also required for certification. Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Understanding Organic Regulations and Finding a Certifier The USDA National Organic Program sets and enforces organic standards, working with accredited certifiers like CCOF, Oregon Tilth and Organic Certifiers. Producers choose any USDA-accredited agent. To stay certified, farms must update their Organic System Plan and pass annual reviews and inspections. Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
What is Organic? Organic means a food or agricultural product is produced according to USDA Organic standards. Farms and businesses must use approved inputs, avoid synthetic chemicals and GMOs, maintain soil and animal health, and pass annual inspections. Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Programs and Support for Small and Mid-Sized Farmers This USDA page outlines support for small and mid-sized farms: access to capital (microloans, storage/facility loans, organic certification cost-share), risk-management tools, conservation & land-management help, and assistance locating local markets — helping diversified and beginning producers build viability. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2025, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA); 2025
UC Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program (UC IPM) UC IPM provides science-based tools to manage insects, weeds, plant diseases, and other pests in farms, gardens, and public spaces. It offers pest ID resources, management guidelines, training materials, and research-based strategies to promote effective, safe, and sustainable pest control across California University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources (UC ANR) 2025, University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources (UC ANR); 2025
Pest Management Guidelines: Agricultural Pests The University of California (UC) Statewide Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses research-based methods to manage insects, plant diseases, and invasive weeds. It reduces pesticides use by emphasizing biological control and sustainable practices, helping protect crops, animals and the environment. University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program 2025, University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program; 2025
Fecal Seeding of Native Species on Degraded Rangelands with Cattle This project tests whether cattle can help restore degraded rangelands by dispersing coated native seeds through their manure. By establishing native plants and reducing invasive grasses like cheatgrass, the approach aims to improve forage, support ecosystem recovery, and enhance grazing management. University of Nevada, Reno Experiment Station 2025, University of Nevada, Reno Experiment Station (NAES); 2025
Developing Decision Support Tools For Management Of Wild Horses This project develops a decision-support tool to monitor habitat and prioritize gathers for wild-horse herd management across key western U.S. states. Using satellite imagery and an 18-year data archive, the tool models forage production, water availability, and ecological thresholds to guide removal and restoration. University of Nevada, Reno Experiment Station (NAES) 2025, University of Nevada, Reno Experiment Station (NAES); 2025
Selecting Vegetable Crops for Small-Scale Desert Production This guide helps small-scale farmers choose vegetables suited for desert climates, suggesting heat-tolerant summer crops and cold-tolerant winter varieties, along with season-extension tools like hoop houses and shade cloth to improve production in arid conditions. University of Nevada, Reno Extension 2025, University of Nevada, Reno Extension; 2025
Rural Tax Education Rural Tax Education provides farmers and ranchers with clear, current guidance on federal income and self-employment taxes, disaster and grant payments, and tax-management strategies. It offers resources like a Small Farm Tax Guide, a Farm Income Tax Estimator Tool, and fact sheets tailored to agriculture. Utah State University Extension 2025, Utah State University Extension; 2025
Resources \| Western Regional Center to Enhance Food Safety The WRCEFS Resources page provides food-safety materials for Western producers, including training videos, fact sheets, water-testing info, cottage-food guidance, and Spanish-language resources to support safe production and education. Western Regional Center to Enhance Food Safety (WRCEFS) at OSU 2025, Oregon State University, College of Agricultural Sciences; 2025
Growing Green in the Nevada Desert This article highlights how Nevada’s small farms, ranches and urban agriculture are adopting climate-smart practices—such as vermiculture and using “worm tea” to boost soil health. Workshops through University of Nevada, Reno Extension help producers of all scales with business, marketing and sustainable production. Western SARE (Western Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education) 2025, Western SARE (Western Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education); 2025
Melon Grafting Effects on Plant Performance and Yield in the High Desert This study looked at grafting melons onto different rootstocks in a high-desert, short-season area. Grafting changed yield, fruit quality, and plant growth, showing that the choice of rootstock can improve melon performance in tough growing conditions. Heinrich di Santo and Felipe H. Barrios-Masias 2024, American Society for Horticultural Science; 2024
Low Impact of Nitrogen Fertilization on Grafted Tomatoes under High-tunnel Production Grafted tomatoes were grown in high tunnels with different nitrogen levels. Changing nitrogen didn’t affect yield much. Plant type and growing conditions mattered more. Leaf tests (SPAD, NDVI) didn’t predict nitrogen well. Maria-Sole Bonarota and Felipe H. Barrios-Masias 2024, American Society for Horticultural Science; 2024
Protective Immunity Induced Through Calving Seasons Following Administration of Live Epizootic Bovine Abortion Agent (EBAA) Vaccine This study evaluates a live vaccine for epizootic bovine abortion (EBA) in cattle over two calving seasons. Results show the vaccine induced protective immunity, reducing infection and fetal loss. The findings support its potential for effective disease prevention and improved herd health management. Myra T. Blanchard, Mike B. Teglas, Kassidy M. Collins, Mark L. Anderson, Bret R. McNabb, Jeffrey L. Stott 2024, sciencedirect.com; 2024
Value-Added Agriculture: Enhancing Farm Opportunities Value-added agriculture helps farmers increase income by transforming or improving products through processing, marketing, or differentiation. It supports diversification, meets customer demand, reduces risk, and creates new business opportunities for farms. Sarah Cornelisse, Jeffrey Hyde, Ph.D., Lynn Kime 2024, PennState Extension: 2024
Considerations for Value-Added Producers This article outlines key considerations for farmers entering value-added production: processing raw commodities into higher-value items (e.g., honey?infused honey), compliance with food-safety regulations (Cottage Food laws, commercial kitchens), proper packaging and labeling, marketing strategies, and the added busin Keegan Athey 2023, Certified Naturally Grown; 2023
Local and Regional Food Systems Resource Guide This guide helps farmers, food businesses and communities navigate USDA programs supporting local and regional food systems. It highlights funding sources, technical assistance, infrastructure development and value-chain strategies for building resilient, equitable food systems and capturing more value locally. USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 2023, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS); 2023
Protection of Cattle against Epizootic Bovine Abortion (EBA) Using a Live Pajaroellobacter abortibovis Vaccine Researchers evaluated a live Pajaroellobacter abortibovis vaccine to combat epizootic bovine abortion in cattle. When given prior to breeding, it effectively prevented disease transmission and pregnancy loss, showing promise as a reliable tool to improve herd health and reproductive success. Myra T. Blanchard, Mike B. Teglas, Mark L. Anderson, Peter F. Moore, Bret R. McNabb, Kassidy M. Collins, Bret V. Yeargan and Jeffrey L. Stott 2022, MDPI; 2022
DFI Food Safety Plan - Part 1: Farm Location, Facilities, and Management Part 1 of DFI's Food Safety Plan describes the farm and general management – including crops, product traceability and worker health and hygiene. Moe, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
DFI Food Safety Plan - Part 2: Water, Soils, and Animals Part 2 of DFI's Food Safety Plan reviews water, wildlife and soil management. Moe, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
DFI Food Safety Plan - Part 3: Harvest, Storage, and Transportation Part 3 of DFI's Food Safety Plan describes specific sanitation, harvest and transportation procedures. Moe, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
DFI Food Safety Plan - Part 4: Logs, Reports, and Forms DFI's Food Safety Plan includes standard operating procedures (SOP), training procedures, logs and forms – these specify the actions necessary to carry out the Plan, monitor implementation, and are used to train employees and volunteers. Moe, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Kale, Chard, Spinach and Produce Safety This article highlights the best on-farm practices for leafy green safety. Kale, chard and spinach are top DFI crops and they are on our mind as they have thrived in the hoop houses this winter. This topic is part of an ongoing series to provide concise, crop specific produce safety guidance. Moe, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
La seguridad alimentaria es la prioridad #1 en las fincas nevadenses (Produce Safety Poster in Spanish) This printable 11x17 poster is intended for use on and around fresh fruit and vegetable farms. The poster includes succinct produce safety tips, checklists and reminders. Laminated copies are available from the Desert Farming initiative. Moe, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Tomatoes and Produce Safety Tomatoes are a highlight of summer crops, but they also fall in the category of higher risk produce. This article provides an overview of best on-farm practices for tomato safety. This topic is part of an ongoing series to provide concise, crop specific guidance for preventing food borne illness. Moe, J. 2021, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Estimating plant-available nitrogen release from cover crops Cover crops release plant-available nitrogen (N) as the break down. By measuring biomass and C:N ration, farmers can estimate how much N will be supplied or tied up. This helps plan fertilizer needs, improved soil health, and support sustainable crop and forage systems. Dan M. Sullivan, Nick Andrews and Linda Brewer 2020, A Pacific Northwest (PNW) Extension Publication; 2020
Agricultural Water and Produce Safety This article focuses on managing the quality of water on produce farms to ensure that it does not become a vector for food borne illness. If pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella in water contaminate produce that is bound for market, both public health and the longevity of the farm can be at risk. Included is an overview of the best practices for managing agricultural water systems, key resources for testing water, and options for correcting water quality issues. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Alliums and Produce Safety Alliums are Nevada’s largest vegetable crop, with the value of onion and garlic production amounting to $10 million in 2017. These important crops are successfully grown at a very large scale in the State, such as at Snyder Onion, Nevada Onion & Peri and Sons farms in Yerington, and at smaller scales, including here... Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Desert Farming Initiative COVID-19 Response The Desert Farming Initiative is working hard to continue research projects, grow bountiful crops, and do our best to support the local food system during the COVID-19 crisis. This publication shares the on-farm practices in place to prevent the spread of this virus. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Food Safety Modernization Act and Good Agricultural Practices How are FSMA and GAP related and how are they relevant to your farm? This publication provides an overview of regulatory requirements for ensuring produce safety practices on the farm and voluntary options for demonstrating best practices to buyers. Even if your operation is not required by law to implement produce safety practices, it is in the interest of your customers and the longevity of your farm to ensure your fruit and vegetables are safe. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Food Safety Planning – Questionnaire for Growers This questionnaire aims to help growers document their practices for preventing the contamination of fresh produce and manage risks. No matter the size of your operation, an outbreak of pathogens like E. coli on one farm could affect the market for all farms in the region. When complete, this questionnaire can function as a farm food safety plan. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Reno, Nevada
Head Lettuce and Produce Safety Produce safety needs to be taken into consideration during lettuce production. This fact sheet highlights key guidance, practices and resources for lettuce growers. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Research Report
Melons and On-Farm Produce Safety Melons have been grown in Nevada for generations, are suited to sustainable desert food production, and are known to be extra sweet as a result. However, melons are considered high risk produce due to their inherent characteristics and recent outbreaks. Produce safety needs to be taken into consideration during melon production. This publication highlights the latest guidance, practices and resources for melon growers. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Microgreens and Produce Safety Microgreens are a popular and versatile crop, including a wide variety of plants (from mustard to radish) that are cut for sale when they have just developed their first true leaves. As with all produce that is consumed raw, there are simple measures that farms can put in place to minimize health risks. This fact sheet highlights key guidance, practices and resources for microgreens growers. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Nevada Produce Safety Survey - 2020 Results This survey was conducted to inform extension activities regarding Food Safety Modernization Act compliance and third party audits (such as a Good Agricultural Practices certification). It was intended for farms that grow fruit and vegetables that are typically consumed raw and sold in Nevada. Survey participation was voluntary and anonymous, and responses were collected in January and February 2020. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Produce Safety is #1 on Nevada Farms This printable 11x17 poster is intended for use on and around fresh fruit and vegetable farms. The poster includes succinct produce safety tips, checklists and reminders. Laminated copies are available from the Desert Farming initiative. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Using Soil Amendments Safely This article defines soil amendments, discusses why they can be of concern for produce safety, and on-farm tips for handling them. Moe, J. 2020, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno
Soil Test Interpretation Guide This guide explains how to interpret soil test results to support crop health. It covers pH, organic matter, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and nutrient levels like N, P, and K, and give ranges to show when soils are low or sufficient. It helps decide when to add lime or fertilizers for balanced soil fertility. Donald A. Horneck, Dan M. Sullivan, Jim Owen and John M. Hart 2019, Oregon State University Extension Service; 2019
Farmers’ Guide to Applying for Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG) This NSAC guide explains how farmers and producer groups can apply for VAPG funding to create or expand value-added agricultural businesses. It outlines eligibility, project types (processing, market differentiation, segmentation, local food chains), matching fund requirements, and application checklists for the 2019-2 The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition 2019, The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition; 2019
Cherry Tomatoes Pruning and Training Cherry tomatoes in high tunnels grow best when trained vertically with 1–2 leaders. Regular pruning of suckers and lower leaves improves airflow, light, yield, and labor efficiency. Double leaders offer optimal balance of labor, harvest ease, and revenue. Amy Ivy 2018, Cornell University cooperative Extension; 2018
Fall Care of Fruit Trees Proper fall care for fruit trees including deep watering, removing fallen leaves, and avoiding late fertilization. Protect trunks from rodents and sunscald and control insects before winter. These steps strengthen tree health, prevent disease, and prepare trees for productive spring growth. Eartheasy 2017, Eartheasys.com
Cattle Management Strategies to Minimize Foothill Abortion Foothill abortion is a tick-borne disease that is causing cattle pregnancy loss in foothill regions. Managing grazing timing, adjusting breeding seasons, and developing herd immunity help protect herds and improve livestock health across Nevada and neighboring states. Mike Oliver, Glenn A. Nader, John Maas, Myra Blanchard, Jeffrey Scott, Mike Teglas, Theresa Becchetti 2016, University of California Agriculture and Natural resources (ANR); 2016
Training and pruning Tomatoes Proper pruning and training in high tunnels improve tomato airflow, light, and yield. Determinate types use the basket weave and minimal pruning, forming a strong Y. Indeterminates are trellised vertically, pruned weekly to 1–2 leaders, and lowered as they grow for easier harvest and disease control. Amy Ivy 2014, Cornell University cooperative Extension; 2014
2013 Nevada Agriculture Analysis and Opportunities This report analyzes Nevada’s agriculture sector, highlighting production trends, economic contributions, value-chain opportunities, and barriers to growth. It identifies key areas for expansion such as processing, distribution, and regional development to strengthen Nevada’s agricultural economy. Northern Nevada Development Authority and the Business Resource Innovation Center 2013, Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA); 2013
Alfalfa for Beef Cows This publication explains how alfalfa can meet beef cows’ protein and energy needs, how hay quality varies and how to balance rations by stage of production. It highlights body condition scoring, feed testing and cost-effective winter feeding strategies. Foster, S. McCuin, G., Nelson, D., Schultz, B., and Torell, R. 2009, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension; 2009
Value-Added Opportunities for Nevada Agriculture This publication explains how Nevada farmers and ranchers can increase income through value-added strategies like processing, packaging, branding, niche marketing, and agritourism. It highlights product differentiation and cooperative marketing as ways to boost profitability. Margaret Cowee & K. Curtis 2005, University of Nevada, Reno Extension; 2005
Value-Added: Opportunities and Strategies This publication explains how farmers can add value through processing, coordination, branding, and niche markets. It outlines strategies like vertical integration, producer-owned businesses, and product differentiation to increase profitability, reduce risk, and strengthen rural economies. Michael Boland, David Barton, David Coltrain 2000, Arthur Capper Cooperative Center; 2000
Pruning Fundamentals This article explains the fundamental principles of pruning trees, emphasizing proper cuts, timing, and structural improvement. It highlights how pruning affects growth, wound response, strength, and long-term tree health, providing foundational guidance for effective and safe tree maintenance. Richard W. Harris 1975, Arboriculture & Urban Forestry (International Society of Arboriculture); 1975
Journals
Challenges and Adaptation Strategies for Riesling Grape (Vitis vinifera L) Production in the Southwest Desert in the USA Riesling, a traditionally cool-climate grape variety, faces increasing challenges when cultivated in the Desert Southwest region of the United States. This paper synthesizes potential strategies for adapting Riesling cultivation to desert environments under increasing climate variability. Naznin, M.T., Azad, M.O.K., Moe, J. 2025, Front. Plant Sci., 16 September, Sec. Plant Physiology, Volume 16 - 2025
Online Courses
Are Value-Added Products Right for My Farm? This beginner-level TXFED course helps farmers evaluate whether offering value-added products is a good fit for their farm. It covers the basics of value-added production, offers feasibility assessment tools and a crop-harvest log, and guides producers through deciding if they should enter value-added markets. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Beginners Guide to Using Social Media to Build Your Farm This TXFED course teaches beginning farmers how to use social media to support their farm business. It covers defining goals, planning content, managing time, and building an online presence on platforms like Instagram and Facebook to strengthen farm marketing. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Build Your Agritourism Business This course teaches how to plan and run an agritourism business, including creating a business plan, managing visitor experiences, developing safety and liability strategies, and using marketing to connect with communities while generating additional farm or ranch income. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery; 2025
Funding Your Value-Added Product Enterprise This TXFED online course digs into financing for value-added farm products. Lesson 1 covers determining financial needs, Lesson 2 explores how to raise capital, and Lesson 3 prepares participants for loan application. The course includes worksheets like a growth-plan and “Are You Bankable” assessment. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Is Agritourism Right for You? This TXFED course helps farmers decide whether agritourism is a good fit for their operation. Beginning with agritourism basics and a niche checklist, it then guides producers through a feasibility self-assessment and decision worksheets to determine if adding agritourism makes business sense. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Is CSA Right for My Farm? This TXFED course helps farmers evaluate whether launching a CSA (community-supported agriculture) model fits their business. It covers fundamentals of CSA, examines key components of a successful program, and provides a self-assessment with worksheets to decide if CSA is right for the farm. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Is Selling at Any Farmers Market Right for You? This TXFED course helps farmers decide if selling at a farmers' market is a good fit. It explains vendor expectations, guides farmers in researching and choosing the right market, and provides self-assessments and worksheets to support informed decision-making. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Making Money at the Farmers Market (101) This TXFED course helps vendor-farmers boost profits at farmers markets by guiding them through analyzing their market, understanding production and non-production costs, and setting appropriate prices. Lessons include worksheets like competitor pricing and cost estimation to drive profitability. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Making Money with Value-Added Products This TXFED course teaches producers how to generate sustainable profits from value-added products by calculating production and non-production costs, applying batch-costing worksheets, setting informed prices, and determining gross margins to ensure business sustainability. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Marketing & Selling Value-Added Products This TXFED course guides producers of value-added farm products through three lessons: crafting a marketing plan, implementing sales strategies (including display design), and identifying and capitalizing on market trends. It includes worksheets for planning, display design, and market research. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Optimizing Your Impact at the Farmers Market (101) This TXFED course helps farm vendors optimize their presence at farmers markets. Through lessons on building a network, designing an appealing booth, and finding market support/help, it includes worksheets like a “Networking & Marketing Framework” and a “Display Your Display” sheet to improve vendor performance. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Running Your Value-Added Product Business This TXFED course guides producers through managing and growing a value-added product business. Lessons cover planning next steps to grow the business, creating a staff management plan with job descriptions, and applying effective record-keeping practices with schedules and worksheets. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Where Do I Start Selling? This free online TXFED course helps beginning and aspiring farmers analyze where to sell their products. Through three lessons — identifying sales channel options, assessing farm capacity, and deciding where to sell — the course offers worksheets, market-research tools, and practical decision-making aids. Texas Local Food Education & Discovery 2025, Texas Local Food Education & Discovery (TXFED); 2025
Research Reports
Melon Grafting and Irrigation This research evaluates the effects of melon grafting and irrigation management on production in Washoe and Churchill Counties. Funded by the Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, the study was conducted in 2021-2023. Barrios Masias, F., Kratsch, H. 2024, Desert Farming Initiative - University of Nevada, Reno
Melon Research DFI was awarded funding through the state’s Specialty Crop Block Grant program for a three year project to investigate and determine best melon varieties, evaluate best production techniques and Integrated Pest Management methods for the Nevada High Desert climate. Moe, J., Kratsch, H., Barrios-Masias, F., Hanson-Mazet, W., di Santo, H. 2024, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno
Potato Research DFI is partnering with High Mowing Seeds to test four specialty potatoes in our high desert climate. Moe, J 2022, University of Nevada, Reno,
Winter Cover Crop Trial Report (2020/2021) Our winter cover crop field trials revealed several stand-out crops that can be used in our climate to increase and maintain soil health, stabilize soil from erosion, control noxious and herbicide-resistant weeds, and increase yields. Moe, J 2021, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno, Research Report
Special Publications
Melon Survival, Yield and Quality in Nevada's High Desert Climate This study evaluated melon varieties and agricultural practices for melon production in the high desert. Conclusions identify melon varieties that demonstrated advantages in terms of plant survival, time to harvest, fruit size, number of fruits per plant, and sweetness. Moe, J., Kratsch, H., Barrios-Masias, F., Hanson-Mazet, W., di Santo, Heinrich 2024, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, SP-24-02