Mike Bartolo has been inducted into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame for his contributions to agriculture. He has developed various pepper varieties, including the dominant Pueblo chile strain. Meanwhile, 21st Century Equipment has opened “The Backyard” to cater to local farmers, and the Pueblo West Metro District is hosting an open house to discuss new fee structures.
Mike Bartolo, the chief propagator of Pueblo Chile from Rocky Ford, has received the prestigious honor of being inducted into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame. This accolade was bestowed upon him during a ceremony last month in recognition of his significant contributions to the agricultural community in Colorado.
Throughout his career, Bartolo has exhibited unwavering dedication to enhancing farming practices. After earning his doctorate in plant physiology from the University of Minnesota, he returned to Colorado to become a vegetable crops specialist at Colorado State University’s Arkansas Valley Research Center.
His research has encompassed key domains of crop production, such as irrigation efficiency, soil fertility, and pest management. Notably, Bartolo developed various pepper varieties tailored to southern Colorado’s climate, including the renowned Pueblo chile derived from seeds inherited from his late uncle.
Bartolo notably propagated a strain of chile named the Mosco, which honors his uncle Harry Mosco’s legacy. Today, this variety is recognized as the dominant form of Pueblo chile grown by local farmers, reflecting Bartolo’s impactful contributions as he approached his retirement in 2021.
In another significant development, John Deere dealership 21st Century Equipment has launched a new venture named “The Backyard” at 2010 U.S. Highway 50 West, which aims to cater to local small-scale farms. Owen Palm, the president and CEO, emphasized the inclusive nature of the store as a welcoming space for families to gather and enhance their outdoor environments.
Although landscaping and remodeling are still underway, the showroom is operational with staff available to assist customers with products and services as they prepare for the grand opening later this spring.
Additionally, the Pueblo West Metro District will hold an open house on March 31 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 63 E. Spaulding Ave. to discuss the new fee structure mandated by Colorado House Bill 24-1267, which enables special districts to impose fines for covenant violations.
This open house presents an opportunity for residents to engage with metro staff directly, addressing questions and understanding how the new fee structures might affect covenant enforcement.
In conclusion, Mike Bartolo’s induction into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame highlights his lifetime devotion to agricultural advancement in Colorado. The establishment of 21st Century Equipment’s “The Backyard” illustrates a commitment to supporting local farmers. Furthermore, the Pueblo West Metro District’s upcoming open house informs the community of new fee structures, fostering transparency and support.
Original Source: www.chieftain.com
