Mike Bartolo, a notable Pueblo chile propagator, has been inducted into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame for his contributions to farming. 21st Century Equipment has launched ‘The Backyard’ to support local farms, while Pueblo West Metro District will host an open house to discuss new fee structures related to state legislation.
Mike Bartolo, a leading propagator of Pueblo chile from Rocky Ford, has been honored with an induction into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame. This recognition took place at a ceremony last month, acknowledging his significant contributions to the agricultural landscape of Colorado. Bartolo has spent his career enhancing farming practices in Colorado and beyond, holding a doctorate in plant physiology from the University of Minnesota and engaging as a vegetable crops specialist at Colorado State University’s Arkansas Valley Research Center.
Throughout his career, Bartolo concentrated on improving various facets of crop production, such as irrigation efficiency, soil fertility, and pest management. He initiated a breeding program that led to the creation of multiple pepper varieties suited for southern Colorado, with the Pueblo chile being the most notable. After receiving a bag of chile seeds from his late uncle Harry Mosco, a farmer on St. Charles Mesa, Bartolo meticulously propagated the Mosco chile strain over the past twenty-five years, which has become the most widely cultivated variety of Pueblo chile among local farmers.
In a related development, 21st Century Equipment, a John Deere dealership committed to serving local farms, has introduced “The Backyard” at 2010 U.S. Highway 50 West. Owen Palm, president and CEO of 21st Century Equipment, described this new showroom as a welcoming space where families can gather and enjoy their outdoor environments. While the landscaping and remodeling are still in progress, staff members are already available to assist customers with products and services.
Additionally, the Pueblo West Metro District is organizing an open house on March 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their offices located at 63 E. Spaulding Ave. This event will discuss the new fee structure mandated by Colorado House Bill 24-1267, which enables special districts to impose fines of up to $500 on property owners who violate covenants. Residents will have the opportunity to speak directly with metro staff to clarify how these fees may affect covenant enforcement.
In summary, the recent highlights in Colorado agriculture include Mike Bartolo’s induction into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame for his profound influence on local farming, the unveiling of ‘The Backyard’ by 21st Century Equipment to support small-scale farms, and the engagement of Pueblo West citizens through an informative open house concerning new fee structures. Each development underscores the ongoing dedication to advancing agricultural practices and community engagement in the region.
Original Source: www.chieftain.com
