This is expected to raise consumer’s awareness of natural fiber and promote the use of natural fibers to enhance the environment!

The resolution was adopted Nov. 25, 2005, and states that “the diverse range of natural fibers produced by many countries provides an important source of income for farmers, and thus can play an important role in contributing to food security and in eradicating poverty.”

The resolution calls on governments, nongovernmental organizations and the private sector to support the resolution.

The objectives of the International Year of National Fibers is to bring attention to and stimulate demand for natural fibers, to encourage governments to respond appropriately to problems facing natural fiber industries, to foster international partnership among natural fiber industries, and to promote the sustainability of those industries.

Sounds good to me, but what does all of that mean for you and me? Well, for starters, there’s “Keep the Fleece,” an international natural fiber contest open to anyone. The deadline for entering the contest is Saturday, Aug. 15. Judging takes place online until finalists are chosen, then items created for the contest are sent for the final phase of judging.

Final judging will be done by a panel of international experts in October at the New York Sheep and Wool Festival. Want to earn extra points? Provide a photo of yourself with the animal or plant the fiber is derived from, a photo of the animal that produced the fleece or picture of the animal if it lives on your farm.

 Visit www.keepthefleece.com to learn all the details.

Be sure to check out the website for the 2009 Fiber Retreat in Jefferson City for information on classes, lodging, competitions, and vendor booths.  Extension.missouri.edu/fiber/2009/ Each year, emphasis is placed on a different fiber art.   The 2009 keynote speaker is Tom Knisely This year weaving will be featured with all types of weaving classes being offered.  Of course, if you are wanting to learn to spin, felt, learn about fiber equipment, dye fiber, knit, or crochet, those classes are also offered.  The retreat is growing each year along with offerings from instructors, competitions, a gallery of your creations, and vendors of fiber and equipment.