An Ozark Regional Pilot Program to Manufacture Economical, Value-Added Products Qualifying for USDA Certified Organic Status.

We propose to improve the sustainability and profitability of small organic pecan farmers by developing an agricultural enterprise from their pecan shell waste that will produce organic, value-added, specialty antimicrobials--specifically to address the needs of organic poultry industry. Liquid smoke generated from organic pecan shells represents the ideal combination of a highly effective organic antimicrobial that can be produced in large quantities and low cost. It can be used not only reduce/eliminate food pathogens but, just as importantly, safely extend the shelf life of fresh organic products, such as poultry. Our long-term goal for this pilot regional project is to build a small business that engages a network of small farms, including organic pecan growers, small organic poultry processors, and organic retailers that can serve as a successful economic blueprint for similar rural small farmer communities across the nation.