Mike Bartolo of Pueblo Chile has been inducted into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame for his contributions to agriculture, particularly the Pueblo chile strain. Meanwhile, 21st Century Equipment has opened a community-focused store called “The Backyard.” The Pueblo West Metro District is hosting an open house on March 31 to discuss new fee structures, empowering local residents with information regarding covenant compliance.
Mike Bartolo, chief propagator for Pueblo Chile in Rocky Ford, has been inducted into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame. His induction recognizes his significant contributions to Colorado agriculture. Bartolo has dedicated his career to enhancing the farming community locally and nationally after earning his doctorate in plant physiology from the University of Minnesota. He served as a vegetable crops specialist at Colorado State University’s Arkansas Valley Research Center, focusing on irrigation, soil fertility, and pest management in crop production.
Bartolo’s breeding program led to the development of several pepper varieties suited for southern Colorado, especially the Pueblo chile. He inherited chile seeds from his late uncle, Harry Mosco, and over the last 25 years, he perfected a meaty strain known as the Mosco. This variety has become the dominant type of Pueblo chile cultivated by local farmers. As he prepared for retirement in 2021, Bartolo noted, “most all the farmers are growing it now.”
21st Century Equipment, a John Deere dealership committed to assisting small-scale farms, has opened “The Backyard” at 2010 U.S. Highway 50 West. Owen Palm, president and CEO, described it as a welcoming space for family and friends, encouraging outdoor transformations. The showroom is still undergoing landscaping and remodeling, but staff are available to provide products, services, and advice to customers.
The Pueblo West Metro District will host an open house on March 31 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their offices located at 63 E. Spaulding Ave. The event will address a new fee structure mandated by Colorado House Bill 24-1267. This legislation permits special districts to impose fines of up to $500 on property owners violating covenants. Attendees can engage with staff to learn more about the fees and how they may affect covenant enforcement.
In summary, Mike Bartolo’s recent induction into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame highlights his profound influence on local agriculture and the Pueblo chile industry. Additionally, 21st Century Equipment has launched a new community-focused space called “The Backyard” to assist local farms. The Pueblo West Metro District’s upcoming open house aims to clarify new fee regulations impacting property owners. These events collectively reflect ongoing developments and support in Colorado’s agricultural landscape.
Original Source: www.chieftain.com
