New Farmer Calendar
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Building a Sustainable Food System with Local Grain Processing
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Clinton Corners, NY
Description: Local organic grain production is an important step in creating a more sustainable food system.
Join Don Lewis for a tour of Wild Hive Farm Community Grain Project and a look at how local
milling plays an important role. Don will provide an overview of how Wild Hive sources and
processes grain, including evaluating wheat, cleaning grain, the milling process, and packaging
flour. He’ll also discuss the history of milling in the Hudson Valley and the important role grain
production plays in sustainable agriculture. Participants will enjoy refreshments from Wild
Hive’s café and bakery. Supported by USDA Organic Research and Extension Initiative (OREI).
Cost: FREE for NOFA-NY members and $15/ non-members.
Contact: Please register by calling Stephanie Backer-Bertsch at NOFA-NY at 585-271-1979 x 509,
or by registering online at www.tinyurl.com/nofanyevents.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
PRESERVATION PARTY AND FERMENTATION FESTIVAL
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Wheelock Mtn. Farm, VT
Description: * In Wheelock, close to Greensboro Bend. Go to wheelockmtnfarm.wikispaces.com for directions. Or call 522-2296.
Drawing on the cultural wealth of the Hardwick area (and a little beyond), local homesteaders and traditional food experts will offer workshops all kinds offood preserving techniques. Join us for a full day of hands-on, participatory, and delicious workshops. Bring favorite recipes or problems to discuss, home preserved goodies (if you have some) for a tasting table, and a dish to share for our potluck lunch.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Business Management
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Brookfield Farm - Amherst, MA
Description: This visit will be an overview of the major areas of business management that we rely on to make our farm economically functional. We will cover planning (including budgeting), bookkeeping & accounting, marketing, insurance & administration, communication (website, email, database). We will consider this a “survey” and give lots of information on all of these topics, but not dwell too long on any one of them. We will give out written materials to be used as reference for the meeting and for later reference.
413-253-7991
info@brookfieldfarm.org
Goat Dairying from Square One
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Walker Valley, NY
Description: During the “Goat Dairying from Square One” attendees will tour Acorn Hill Farm, 65 Red Barn Rd., Walker Valley, NY on Monday, September 10th from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. Farmer Joyce Henion will explain the necessary steps in preparing for and acquiring your dairy goats and then walk us through dairy-goat farming and marketing. As we tour Acorn Hill Farm we will see the care, terrain, housing and milking infrastructure this small herd of goats requires. We will learn how Acorn Hill built and runs its on-farm licensed cheese-making facility. Challenges and benefits of raising dairy goats organically will also be covered. Mary Ann Johnson of the Hudson Valley Agribusiness Development Corporation will discuss funding options, marketing, and planning for a farm business or anew farm enterprise. Lunch will be provided, and pre-registration is highly encouraged for all-participants.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Custom Slaughter and Regulatory Literacy
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Full Circle Farm - Wells River, VT
Description: Chip Conquest, owner and operator of Full Circle Farm, is currently constructing a custom slaughter facility to meet the farm’s livestock processing needs. Come tour the facility and learn about the opportunities and challenges a custom slaughter facility might provide for your farm or region. Representatives from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture will discuss regulations for processing and selling meat. Full Circle Farm is a diversified family farm producing pork, chicken, turkeys, and beef. All animals are raised on pasture or in a deep bedded, open barn. Pigs and poultry are fed locally-milled grain, and beef animals are strictly grass-fed.
Cost: $10 for NOFA-VT or VGFA members; $20 non-members
Website: nofavt.org/sws
Contact Email: info@nofavt.org
Contact Phone: (802) 434-4122
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Produce Wash Water Webinar
Time: 7:00 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.
Location: Webinar
Description: Center for Produce Safety at UC Davis presents: Produce Wash Water
Sign up online: intertox-events.webex.com/intertox-events/onstage/g.php?d=660365020&t=a
CPS Website: cps.ucdavis.edu/
Soil Testing, Management, and Cover Crop Strategies & NOFAvore Social
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: Wellspring Farm - Marshfield, VT
Description: Join Mimi Arnstein of Wellspring Farm and Lynda Prim, NOFA VT’s Fruit & Vegetable Advisor, as they explain the nuances behind soil testing and management. They will share how to use soil tests to actively manage balanced soil fertility and incorporate principles of biological fertility management to improve the nutritional quality of crops. This workshop will assess short-term management practices that directly affect this year’s crops as well as increasing long-term soil quality through the use of cover crops and perennials. Wellspring Farm is managed by Mimi Arnstein, an enthusiastic student of soil science, who regularly uses all types of soil and plant tests to help with farm management decisions. Come see the results! The NOFAvore social to follow will feature products from Wellspring Farm. Come and share a feast and provide input on NOFA-VT’s strategic plan.
Registration requested for the NOFAvore Social; please visit www.nofavt.org/sws to register or call (802) 434-4122.
Cost: $10 for NOFA-VT members; $20 non-members
Website: nofavt.org/sws
Contact Email: info@nofavt.org
Contact Phone: (802) 434-4122
Vegetable Variety Walk with High Mowing Seeds
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Argyle, NY
Description: “Vegetable Variety Walk with High Mowing Seeds” field day. Martha Johnson, farmer and owner of Slack Hollow Farm, will lead a tour of her 134-acre (11acres of vegetables) farm and discuss the attributes of vegetable varieties she and her partner, Seth Jacobs, have chosen to grow. The walk will focus on different varieties of carrots, mesclun greens lettuce, broccoli and winter squash. Learn from Martha, an experienced farmer of diversified veggies for over 25 years, what varieties perform well on her farm and at her markets and why. High Mowing Organic Seeds trials manager, Gwenael Engelskirchen, will talk about the characteristics that High Mowing has seen in these varieties on their 4-acre Trials Garden in northern Vermont. Participants will also learn about Slack Hollow Farm’s winter crop production and winter marketing strategies.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Biomass Field Day
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: VTC Randolph, VT
Description: We will have a walking tour of a three year old study of warm season grasses including Switchgrass, Big bluestem, Miscanthus, Coastal Panicgrass, Indiangrass and Cordgrass, a demonstration of a 12 inch Buskirk pellet mill and the Renewable Energy Resource's grass slugger, and a look at the VTC Red School House biomass boiler system that they are using for student research. You can get more information at the following link. The agenda is in the following announcement: pss.uvm.edu/vtcrops/Programs/Grass_Biomass_Field_Day_VTC_2012.pdf For more questions, contact Sid Bosworth at (802) 656-0478 or sid.bosworth@uvm.edu. -- Sid Bosworth Extension Agronomist and Instructor Plant and Soil Science Department University of Vermont 208 Jeffords Hall 63 Carrigan Drive Burlington, VT 05405-0082 Phone: (802) 656-0478 FAX: (802) 656-4656 email: sid.bosworth@uvm.edu The Vermont Crops and Soils Homepage pss.uvm.edu/vtcrops/
Overwintering and Second Year Management of Bee Hives
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Elmer Farm - Middlebury, VT
Description: As the season winds down, join Ross Conrad as he addresses one of the significant challenges of beekeeping in the Northeast: overwintering hives. Ross will cover overwintering and spring management with an emphasis on second year hives. Topics will also include swarming, honey production and harvesting. Ross Conrad is a former president of the VT Beekeepers Association and operates Dancing Bee Gardens in Cornwall, VT. He is the author of Natural Beekeeping and a contributing writer to Bee Culture Magazine. Held at the Elmer Farm, a conserved, certified organic, 90 acre farm in East Middlebury that grows 25 acres of mixed vegetables, grains, and dry beans.
855 Case St.
Middlebury, VT
Cost:
$10 for NOFA-VT members; $20 non-members
Contact Email: info@nofavt.org
Insuring Specialized, Diversified, and Organic Farms
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Webinar
Description: The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) will offer a one-hour webinar on Thursday, September 13, to explain Adjusted Gross Revenue Lite (AGR-Lite)— a unique, federally subsidized crop-insurance product that holds great promise to serve the needs of smaller, diverse, specialty crop, organic, and direct-market farmers.
The webinar, "AGR-Lite—Understanding Whole-Farm Insurance for the Specialized, Diversified, and Organic Farms," will explain how AGR-Lite works; provide a brief overview of crop-insurance limitations for specialized, diversified, and organic smaller farms, as well as demonstrate NCAT’s new AGR-Lite Wizard assessment tool. This tool assists farmers and agricultural professionals in evaluating the usefulness of whole-farm revenue insurance.
To register: Visit attra.ncat.org/understandingagr
Growing for Seed Production
Time: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Location: Lewis Farm - Waterbury Center
Description: Visit NOFA Journey Farmer Nate Lewis at his start-up farm that produces tomato and pepper seed, as well as small fruit and garlic. He will focus on growing and processing methods, special equipment involved in seed production, and answer any questions that arise. Nate Lewis’s 6-year farming career started at the University of New Hampshire’s student run organic garden, and continued through an apprenticeship and then assistant management position at Green Meadows Organic Farm in South Hamilton, MA. Nate started Lewis Farm in 2011. Also present to answer questions about seed production or the Journey Farmer Program will be Richard Wiswall. Wiswall operates the Cate Farm in Plainfield, and serves as farmer mentor for Nate through NOFA-VT’s Journey Farmer Program.
Cost: $10 for NOFA-VT members; $20 non-members
Website: nofavt.org/sws
Contact Email: info@nofavt.org
Contact Phone: (802) 434-4122
Friday, September 14, 2012
Northeast Animal Power Gathering & Draft Animal Power Network An
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Brownington, NY
Description: A gathering for those who use and appreciate draft animal power to learn, share and discuss
the practice & theory of animal power applications on farms & woodlots. Families are welcome,
camping and meals are available.
Cost: Varies
Contact: Rebekah Bailey at bekah@nealperryfarm.com or Perry Farm or 802-754-2396
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Mushroom Workshop
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Guilford, VT
Description: Medicinal mushrooms, habitat, ethical forage, shiitake log innoculations and much, much more!
Call 802-380-8943 or email owlmnt06@yahoo to register
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Rural Vermont’s 5th Annual Tour de Farms
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Shoreham, VT
Description: Farm-fresh foods, amazing bicycling, and spectacular scenery are in store for the 5th Annual Tour de
Farms! The event offers three loop rides (approx. 10, 25 and 30 miles) and a family-friendly five-mile
walking or biking option . At frequent designated stops, family farmers will treat bicyclists and walkers to
tasty samples of local foods such as apple cider, quiche, bread, roasted vegetables, yogurt, wine, maple
syrup, and cookies. Because the event is a tour and not a race, the pace is low key, allowing ample time
to chat with farmers and relax with friends in the beautiful Champlain Valley.
Cost: Advance registration $28 for adults and $13 for kids 16 and under. Day-of registration fees are
$50 for adults and $20 for kids 16 and under. Children in trailers and bike seats ride free and don’t need
to be registered.
Contact: For more information visit www.ruralvermont.org/5th-annual-tour-de-farms/, or
register at www.bikereg.com/Net/17071.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Potato Production
Time: 12:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Location: Foote Brooke Farm - Johnson, VT
Description: Tony Lehouillier, owner of certified organic Foote Brook Farm in Johnson, VT, will cover the following essentials for potato production: understanding your soils, cultivation techniques, irrigation needs, harvesting with a two-roll picker, and disease issues. Feel free to bring a camera to take pictures of equipment. Bring boots for field walking. Vern Grubinger, UVM Vegetable and Berry Specialist will co-lead this workshop.
Presented in cooperation with UVM Extension, the Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association, and USDA Risk Management Agency.
Foote Brooke FarmJohnson, VT
Cost: Free for farmers an VVBGA members; $10 NOFA-VT members; $20 non-members
Website: nofavt.org/sws
Contact Email: info@nofavt.org
Contact Phone: (802) 434-4122
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Regulations for selling safe canned foods
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Location: Department of Health Conference Room, Burlington, VT
Description: More information, including registration details, on the course, is available from the UVM Extension Food Safety webpage: www.uvm.edu/extension/
Email Londa Vanderwal Nwadike for more information:
londa.nwadike@uvm.edu
Friday, September 21, 2012
Maine Organic Farming and Gardening Association (MOFGA) Common G
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Unity, ME
Description: From their website: “If you’ve ever been to the Fair, you know — and if you haven’t been,
anyone who has will tell you — it’s an event like no other, that brings together so many people
from so many walks of life, all in the spirit of celebrating the rural and agricultural traditions of
Maine.”
Cost: Free for MOFGA members, $10 daily for adults.
Contact: visit their website or reach MOFGA staff 207-568-4142 or mofga@mofga.org
South Royalton, VT Community Space Discussion
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: 35 S. Windsor
Description: This meeting will discuss the feasiblity of starting a farm / food / education center in the South Royalton area that would rely on the involvement not only of the local community but also of passing travelers.The vision is of a combination cafe-garden where people can learn about farming and food, can exchange ideas, and can have an outlet for various forms of art and creative expression.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Poultry Extravaganza
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: VTC Randolph, VT
Description: A full-day workshop focused on developing and growing your poultry business. Topics will include
financial planning, market analysis, and effective production practices for the established producer.
The event will feature both guest presenters and producer roundtable discussions. Presenters will
include Jenn Colby, Pasture Program Coordinator at UVM Extension Center for Sustainable Agriculture;
Mark Cannella, UVM Extension Farm Business Management Specialist; and special guests with poultry
expertise. Presented in collaboration with UVM Extension.
Cost: $10 for NOFA-VT or VGFA members; $20 nonmembers
Contact: NOFA-VT at info@nofavt.org or 802-434-4122. Register online here: here
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Reclaiming and Rejuvenating your Pature and Hay Land
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Knoll Farm Waitsfield, VT
Description: Hosted at Knoll Farm, 700 Bragg Hill Road, Fayston/Waitsfield, VT
Cost: $5 for VGFA members, $10 for non members
Many grass-based farmers struggle with balancing pasture and hay land improvements with budget, time and equipment limitations. Join UVM Extension agronomy and grazing personnel, along with beginning and experienced farmers and landowners as we visit Knoll Far, to discuss the pros and cons of different approaches to land reclamation and building quality soils on a budget. Knoll Farm has been focused on strategically improving their land and offers an excellent opportunity to see pasture and hay land improvement at different stages. Sponsored by the Pasture Program at the UVM Center for Sustainable Agriculture, UVM Extension and USDA Risk Management.
Register here: www.eventbrite.com/event/4328191738%20%5bchange%5d
Contact: Jenn Colby jcolby@uvm.edu
Webinar-Crop Plans for Year Round Production in High Tunnels
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Online
Description: Are you considering adding high tunnel crops to your farm? High tunnel production has been widely promoted for season extension of vegetables, but is year-round production possible or even sustainable in the Northeast? Join the Vermont New Farmer Project for a presentation with Judson Reid, Senior Extension Associate with the Cornell Vegetable Program. Reid manages research and education projects throughout New York State for greenhouse and high tunnel production of fresh market vegetables. He is involved in the evaluation of grafting on tomatoes, cucumbers and eggplants; biological pest control, new cropping techniques and low temperature pest management concerns. In this webinar we will look at crop rotations in high tunnels from both economic and horticultural perspectives. Long-term soil fertility, pest cycles and profitability will be analyzed using real life examples.
On the last Tuesday of each month, at 7 pm, the UVM Extension New Farmer Project offers an online webinar on topics of interest to new farmers. You can find the latest listing of upcoming webinars at www.uvm.edu/newfarmer/?Page=webinars/upcoming_webinars.php&SM=webinars/sub-menu.html
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Pasture Reclamation Demonstration
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Fayston, VT
Description: Knoll Farm
Cost: $10 VGFA members; $20 nonmembers
Contact: NOFA-VT at info@nofavt.org or 802-434-4122. Register online here: here
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Northeast Organic Dairy Producers Alliance Field Days
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Brattleboro
Description: Northeast Organic Dairy Producers Alliance presents a program packed with compelling, practical topics, two farm tours, a large trade show, delicious local and organic meals, a social hour, and plenty of time for networking with fellow farmers. The theme is "Farming Smarter: A Nutrient and Energy Dense Agenda to Help Farmers Become More Self-Reliant." Educational sessions will address pastures, cow health, the Farm Bill, diversification, nutrient-dense forage production, and more. For more information, contact Nora Owens, noraowens@comcast.net, Phone: 413-772-0444, or visit the NODPA Field Days Webpage for complete details: www.nodpa.com/fielddays_2012_overview.shtml
Potato Production
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: Foote Brooke Farm in Johnson, VT
Description: Tony Lehouillier, owner of certified organic Foote Brook Farm in Johnson, VT, will cover the following essentials for potato production: understanding your soils, cultivation techniques, irrigation needs, harvesting with a two-roll picker, and disease issues. Feel free to bring a camera to take pictures of equipment. Bring boots for field walking. Vern Grubinger, UVM Vegetable and Berry Specialist will co-lead this workshop.
4-6pm. Foote Brooke Farm. Johnson. Free for farmers and VVBGA members; $10 NOFA-VT members; $20 non-members.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Vermont Law School Conference on Agriculture and Food Systems
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: S. Royalton, VT
Description: This conference will serve as a launch platform for the law school's new Center for Agriculture
and Food Systems, bringing national experts and leaders in the field together to address the
major legal and policy issues related to agriculture and food systems. The conference will
feature speakers with diverse backgrounds, specialties, professions and points of view on
issues concerning food and public health, sustainable animal agriculture, public regulation of
genetically modified organisms, agriculture and water quality, localizing food, and the future of
agriculture production nationally and here in Vermont.
Cost: $25 in advance, $30 day of, free for students
Contact: Vermont Law School website or lawreview@vermontlaw.edu
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Whole Farm Systems
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Atlas Farm - Deerfield, MA
Description: Communication is an important tool on the farm, and all methods of planning, seeding, weeding, harvesting, and pest control need to be methodical, transparent, and logical to all crew members on the farm. Absence of a system and good record keeping makes for inefficiency, confusion and possibly poor crew morale. Any system adopted needs to work for 150 members and be easily adapted for a 1,500 member CSA. If a system for a 150 member CSA does not have the inherent flexibility to adapt when greater production is needed, any expansion will have more than the usual growing pains. We will guide you through some of our production systems and tools, and our aids to communicate these systems to our farm staff.
Atlas Farm
Gideon Porth
635 River Rd.
Deerfield, MA 01342
413-695-2728
gideon@atlasfarm.com
atlasfarm.com
Monday, October 1, 2012
Addison County Homeopathy for Farm Animals Study Group
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location: Leicester VT
Description: Meeting on the first Monday of each month, free and open to all levels. Great peer support; learn how other farmers are applying homeopathy on their farms. Our discussions are relaxed and usually include some theory and case analysis. Bring your resources (if you have them) and a current or past case that you would like to discuss or share. More info: Annie Claghorn foxclag@gmavt.net 802-247-3979 or Bay Hammond bkhammond@shoreham.net 897-2121.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
National Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Day
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Burlington, VT
Description: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and AARP are hosting this event to provide you training and resources for your business.
FREE and open to the public
Please register by calling 802-828-4422 x211 or emailing vallerie.morse@sba.gov
SBA Loan Clinics
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Location: Online.
Description: After preparing a business plan, the next step for many small business is obtaining financing. Join the VT Small Business Administration to learn about SBA’s lending role and how an SBA loan can benefit your business. The clinics will help you prepare a loan application, learn lender credit requirements for loan approval, find sources of capital to start or grow your business, understand loan interest rates, terms, amounts, and collateral requirements, and how to approach a lender to improve your chances for approval by knowing what they are looking for. You can join from 9;:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. To learn how to participate, go to www.sba.gov/content/montpelier-sba-loan-clinics-0. For more information, call (802) 828-4422 or email Vallerie.Morse@sba.gov or visit www.sba.gov/vt.
Winter Tunnel Production and Season Extension
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Bread and Butter Farm - Shelburne, VT
Description: Bread and Butter Farm harvests kale, chard, spinach, cilantro and other crops from their high tunnel all year long. In this workshop, Corie Pierce will explain the four keys to winter hoop house production: crop selection, timing seeding and planting, crop protection needs, and overall system management. Vern Grubinger, Vegetable and Berry Specialist with UVM Extension, will be on hand to provide additional information and answer questions. Corie Pierce is the co-owner and vegetable manager of Bread & Butter Farm, a two-family farm that raises grass-fed beef, year-round veggies, a small herd of Jersey cows, and also runs a wood-fired oven bakery and hosts community events. Presented in cooperation with UVM Extension, the Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association, and USDA Risk Management Agency.
Bread and Butter FarmShelburne, VT
Cost: Free for farmers an VVBGA members; $10 NOFA-VT members; $20 non-members
Website: nofavt.org/sws
Contact Email: info@nofavt.org
Contact Phone: (802) 434-4122
One Year Later: Revisiting Rejuvenated and Reclaimed Land In Pro
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Location: 4758 Chelsea Road, Corinth, VT
Description: Cost $5 for VGFA members, $10 for non members
Like last year, many farmers are land and budget limited. Some farmers and land owners have used the opportunity to work together reclaiming land that may have been neglected or in need of clearing. Join UVM Extension agronomy and grazing personnel, along with beginning and experienced farmers and landowners as we discuss the pros and cons of different approaches to land reclamation, creating good relationships, building quality soils on a budget, and what different management methods look like after a year. Our stops will include an area logged and reseeded in 2011 and two locations managed using sheep impact and amendments. We will visit the same farms we saw at a similar event last fall and have an opportunity to witness and discuss changes and approaches that have taken place since that time. Hosted by Tamarack Tunis and the Nolin family.
Cost: $5
Register here: www.eventbrite.com/event/4389675638
If you require accessibility accommodations to participate in this program, please let Jennifer Colby know (802-656-0858) by September 18 so we may assist you.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Ag Finance Hour
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Middlebury Extension Office
Description: Now is a great time to update your financials. “Ag Finance Hour” is a time to sit down with a UVM Extension Farm Business Management specialist, one-on-one, to work on the financial planning, critical to your farm’s success. Meetings last an hour to an hour and a half and are focused on developing balance sheets, cash budgets or completing financial analysis.
Middlebury UVM Extension Office: Fridays: October 5th, November 30th , December 28th
Berlin UVM Extension Office: Fridays: November 2nd; December 7th
There is a $15 registration fee.
Call now to schedule an appointment with Christi Sherlock or Erin Clark 802-223-2389
“How-to” information on incorporating solar panels on your farm
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Central NY, Schoharie County
Description: Energy from the Sun! Summit Naturals Organic Farm. Leo Siemion will give us a tour of the sustainable energy features on his 25 acre organic farm. The farm produces 11 varieties of garlic in raised fields, eggs from heritage Dominique breed of chickens, and bottled honey, comb honey and beeswax candles from 12 bee colonies. Leo and his farm crew have spent the past several years raising approximately 450 pond bred Koi fish for retail sale. Thier 60 X 21 foot high tunnel is double walled plastic and excess solar heat is circulated through 250 feet of corrugated pipe 2 feet underground. This active solar heating system allows Summit Naturals to grow greens throughout the winter. Their smaller glass greenhouse attached on the south side of the family home has 520 feet of corrugated pipe, 5 feet underground which runs through an insulated stone pit and radiates back up thru the concrete floor. Leo has been able to produce tropical fruits such as oranges, lemons, and figs in this green house. The 9.4 KW grid tied PV electric system consists of two separate arrays: Each array has three pole mounts and its own inverter. Their roof mounted evacuated tube solar hot water system provides all of their hot water needs. The farm is considering an electric tractor purchase in 2013 to use the excess electricity they now produce and reduce diesel fuel needs. More info on Summit Naturals at www.summitnaturals.com Free and open to the public! Refreshments will be provided. Map | Register here or email vws7@cornell.edu
Location: 116 Davis Rd. Summit, NY 12175
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Edible Forest Gardens
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Waitsfield, VT
Description: Edible Forest Gardening is the conscious application of the principles of ecology to the
design of home scale gardens that mimic forest ecosystem structure and function, but grow
food, fuel, fiber, fodder, fertilizer, “farmaceuticals" and fun. This workshop will offer an in-
depth exploration of forest ecology, site analysis and assessment, the design process, and
interaction with some of the lesser known plants that can comprise ‘perennial polycultures’.
There will be interactive lectures and group work, as well as hands-on experiential learning.
The course will include a detailed analysis of the Yestermorrow site, using what we find to
create a draft plan for a large forest garden installation. Students will be an integral part of a
permaculture designed landscape installation at Yestermorrow. This workshop is open to all,
but is recommended for experienced gardeners or graduates of Permaculture design courses.
Competency Level: Intermediate to Professional
Cost: $320
Contact: www.yestermorrow.org/workshops/detail/edible-forest-gardens, or Abby
Martin at outreach@yestermorrow.org or 802 496 5545
10th Annual Pumpkin Festival
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: East Thetford, VT
Description: Cedar Circle Farm, Pavilion Rd, East Thetford, VT.
Family fun on the farm: ongoing horse-drawn wagon rides to the pumpkin patch, pumpkin
picking, cider pressing, bean threshing, children’s entertainment and activities. Live folk rock
music under the tent by The Wall-Stiles from Vermont, and a special guest performance by
internationally known singer/songwriter David Rovics, “the musical voice of the progressive
movement in the U.S.” Enjoy an organic “good food from the farm” concession and NOFA-VT’s
wood-fired pizzas. A Green Event, bring your own place setting to help reduce waste. Rain or
shine.
Cost: Parking $5 per car. Come by foot, bike or train for free.
Contact: 802-785-4737. Details at www.CedarCircleFarm.org.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
UVM Extension Food Safety Workshop
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Workshop for Swede Midge
Description: Email Londa for details: londa.nwadike@uvm.edu
Thursday, October 11, 2012
New Farming Infrastructure From the Soil Up
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Location: 1484 Tower Rd, Barnard, VT
Description: Cost: $5 for VGFA members, $10 for non members
Joseph and Amy Morel are landowners and cattle graziers who are cooperating with other local farmers to provide high-quality food for their community from the soil up. Current projects include infrastructure construction, improving soil and forage quality, and productivity, on three farms - their home farm, the Hay Farm, and the Clark Farm. Together with partners, they have designed and are implementing a multi-year soil-improvement and farm infrastructure construction project on multiple properties. Immediate methods include soil, forage and weight-gain monitoring, grazing management, bale-grazing, subsoil plowing (Keyline soil development), mineral and fertilizer applications (biological and organic mixes, dry-broadcast, foliar, and subsoil-injected) and seeding, both new and into subsoil rips. Seeding strategies include experimentation with Cocktail Cover-Cropping, a rapidly spreading innovation in soil improvement from North Dakota. Come walk and ponder with us as we look at the outcomes of infrastructure construction, grazing management and soil improvement work begun at the opening of the 2012 growing season.
Register here: www.eventbrite.com/event/4389874232
If you require accessibility accommodations to participate in this program, please let Jennifer Colby know (802-656-0858) by September 27 so we may assist you.
Food Export Seminar
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: VT Food Venture Center
Description: Food Export USA - Northeast, in conjuction with the Vermont Agency of Agriculture and the Vermont Small Business Development Center, will present a seminar that informs Vermont businesses about what resources and assistance is available for exporting overseas. Please contact chelsea.lewis@state.vt.us or #802-828-3360 to register or for more information.
Free!
Friday, October 12, 2012
Farming Off-Grid
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Fingerlakes, Tompkins County NY
Description:
Address: 266 Blackman Hill Rd., Brooktondale NY 14817.
October 12, 2012. 10am – noon. Farming Off-Grid. One Earth Farm. Erika and Mauricio Medina will give us a tour of their small off-grid permaculture farm. The farm provides vegetables, eggs, raw honey, turkeys, chickens and wool from a small flock of Finn sheep. A 3kW solar photovoltaic (1.5PV is currently installed) system powers the family and farm’s current electrical needs (including water pumping). Erica and Mauricio have a small CSA and offer workshops at the farm in sustainable living skills, renewable energy, and permaculture. They also run a Renewable Energy Business (One Earth Energy) which designs and installs solar PV and solar thermal systems with a specialty in off-grid/battery based systems. If you are interested in low-input, off-grid farming and homesteading, this tour is for you! Free and open to the public! Refreshments will be provided. Map | Register here or email vws7@cornell.edu
Social Media Marketing for Agribusiness
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Vermont Technical College, Lange
Description: An open forum training session focused on the first three steps to establish a social media presence
for your agricultural business and how to leverage social media to accomplish your business goals.
Participants will be introduced to effective Facebook marketing strategies for value-added ag products,
as well as provided advanced instruction on tools such as Facebook Insights and Google Analytics
integration.
Following the SOCIAL MEDIA workshop, we will introduce VTC plans to develop a community kitchen
at the Vermont Tech Enterprise Center in Randolph that will have the capacity to process milk into fluid
milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, butter, cream, and other dairy products. It will also have the capability
to process vegetables, fruit, and berries. This exciting initiative will be a valuable resource to area
growers and prospective specialty food producers.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Hudson Valley Farm Beginnings(R) Whole Farm Planning Course
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Location: New York State
Description: Whole farm planning, in 482 hours of class time throughout the entire year.
Cost: $50
For more information, visit www.hawthornevalleyfarm.org
Grazing and Livestock
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Hawthorne Valley Farm -Ghent, NY
Description: We will tour the pastures and explain our rotational grazing system for our dairy herd. The basic life cycles of a cow will be described, and we will form a picture of what it is like to work with animals on a larger scale. We will tour our compost piles, all made with materials from our farm. We will discuss some basics of a Biodynamic farm. We will tour our dairy processing plant, where we make yogurt and cheese from our milk. We will tour our kraut cellar, where we make raw, lacto-fermented vegetable products. We will discuss why it is important for this farm that we add value to our farm products. We do appreciate CRAFT members arriving on time, (9am), to our visit. We will meet at the parking lot in front of the big red barn
Hawthorne Valley Farm
Katy Lince
327 Rte 21 C
Ghent, NY 12075
apprenticeships@hawthornevalleyfarm.org
hawthornevalleyfarm.org
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
A Panel Discussion with NRCS Staff and local farmers
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Linden Rd. Hartland, VT
Description: Jason Fleury, VT Soil Conservationist and Beth Ann Finlay, NH District Conservationist, will highlight NRCS programs and practices that agricultural producers can access to address natural resource concerns. Emphasis will be on how NRCS has assisted fellow grassland, dairy and cropland producers with cost-share practices.
Cedar Mountain Farm and Patridge Farm will speak about their experiences working with NRCS on technical and financial assistance programs. Projects protect water and pasture quality through manure management, fencing improvements and other methods.
Stay for a mixer and refreshments after the panel!
Contact Valley Food and Farm for questions: 802.291.9100
www.vitalcommunities.org
Thursday, October 18, 2012
SOIL QUALITY: Better Crops, Cleaner Water, Bigger Profits
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: American Legion Middlebury, VT
Description: Workshop Highlights
* Identify and recognize soil quality characteristics
* Learn the benefits of soil quality improvements to farms and the environment
* See how enhanced soil quality improves water quality
* Learn how to implement practices to improve soil quality
Email or Call Leslie Hendricks at NRCS to register or for more information:
(802) 951-6796 x222 | leslie.hendricks@vt.usda.gov
Healthy Soils for a Healthy Environment
Time: 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Littlewood Farm - Plainfield, VT
Description: Are you interested in learning more about improving and managing your agricultural soils? Do you want to see bigger yields and larger profits? Are you curious about how better soil management can lead to improved water quality? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you’ll certainly benefit from this free upcoming workshop on October 18, 2012 from 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM at Littlewood Farm in Plainfield. Representatives from WSH Consulting, UVM Extension, and the Vermont Association of Conservation Districts will be on hand to discuss soil profiling, soil organic matter, nutrient management, and various practices for reducing soil and nutrient losses.
If interested, RSVP by October 16 to Justin Kenney at WNRCD (802) 828-4493 x113 or justin.kenney@vt.nacdnet.net. Beverages and light fare will be provided.
Vermont Food Venture Center Open House
Time: 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Vermont Food Venture Center
Description: See the center, then, stay for the "Third Thursday" events
Creative Work Force Solutions and YourFarmStand.Com
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Vermont Food Venture Center
Description: A presentation on Creative Work Force Solutions as well as how YourFarmStand.Com can be of help to your business.
Free to VFVC members and $5 donation requested for non-members
Third Thursdays!
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Vermont Food Venture Center
Description: Events every third Thursday at the VFVC
See website for details:http://vermontfoodventurecenter.org/
UVM Extension Master Compooster Course
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Locations throughout Vermont
Description: Presented by UVM Extension Master Gardener Prgoram, this 4-session course is an in-depth study of backyard composting. Your instructors are professionals within Vermont's green industry. Students must successfully complete the course, and earn 20 hours as Volunteers in community projects. MC Interns will receive support and guidance from the UVM Home Horticulture Program. Though these programs are separate, Extension Master Composter volunteer hours can also be applied as Extension Master Gardener hours.
Course will take place in Bennington, Brattleboro, Johnson, Lyndon, Middlebury, Montpelier, Newport, Randolph, Rutland, Springfield, St. Albans, White River Jct, and Williston.
Website: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/?Page=MasterComposterCourseInfo.htm
Register here: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/documents/2012composteremailregform.pdf
If you would like a 2012 Course registration form mailed to you, please send your name and postal address to master.gardener@uvm.edu or contact (802)656-9562.
Friday, October 19, 2012
Wind, Water & Pasture: Managing for Sustainability
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Central NY, Oneida County
Description: Address: 7874 Walter St. Oriskany Falls, New York 13425
October 19, 2012. 10am – noon. Wind, Water & Pasture: Managing for Sustainability. Fuess Meadows Organic Dairy. Kevin and Christine Fuess use multiple energy and ecological conservation strategies on their 100 acre organic dairy. In early 2012, they worked with the company “Earth, Wind and Solar” to install a 10KW Bergey Wind Turbine. The Fuess’s took advantage of grants and tax credits available to farmers and rural businesses so that the costs associated with the purchase and installation were affordable. Additionally, the Fuess’s conserve water by using pre-cooler water to supply fresh drinking water to their pastures. Their herd of 40-50 milking cows are rotated though one acre sections of pasture. Each lot has its own supply of fresh water piped through a network of tubing for all the grazed pastures. Another method of land conservation for the farm is the recent installation of a French Drain which aids in managing waste. If you’re interested in wind power or sustainable energy for a small dairy, this field day is for you! Free and open to the public! Refreshments will be provided Map | Register here or email vws7@cornell.edu
What's Grain got to do with it?
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Stony Pond Farm, Fairfield, VT
Description: What’s Grain Got to Do With It?
Dairy and Livestock Farmer Discussions October 2012
NOFA Vermont Technical Assistance Program
As you prepare for the winter ahead, join NOFA-VT Farm Advisor Willie Gibson to explore ideas on feed sources and feeding strategies. Discussion groups will also cover long term strategies to enhance your farm’s feed energy production.
Discussion topics include:
How can we best use the feeds we have on hand this winter?
What are our options for organic supplement feeds?
How can my farm produce more energy from the feeds we grow?
Monday, October 22, 2012
What's Grain got to do with it
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Paddlebridge Holsteins, North T
Description: Dairy and Livestock Farmer Discussions October 2012
NOFA Vermont Technical Assistance Program
As you prepare for the winter ahead, join NOFA-VT Farm Advisor Willie Gibson to explore ideas on feed sources and feeding strategies. Discussion groups will also cover long term strategies to enhance your farm’s feed energy production.
Discussion topics include:
How can we best use the feeds we have on hand this winter?
What are our options for organic supplement feeds?
How can my farm produce more energy from the feeds we grow?
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Direct Market Pricing Strategy for Farmers
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Montpelier
Description:
These FREE one-day clinics will provide hands-on opportunities to learn about various cost-based pricing techniques using your own production and financial data. Participants will also explore market placement and promotion considerations related to the price points you want to achieve. Follow-up mentoring and technical assistance will be available.
Pre-registration is required! Limited space available. www.uvm.edu/farmpricing/sign-2012-pricing-clinics
To request a disability-related accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Jessie Schmidt at 802-223-2389 x203 or 866-860-1382 (toll free in VT) by October 10, 2012, so we may assist you.
What's Grain got to do with it?
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Mikes Farm, Addison, VT
Description: NOFA Vermont Technical Assistance Program
As you prepare for the winter ahead, join NOFA-VT Farm Advisor Willie Gibson to explore ideas on feed sources and feeding strategies. Discussion groups will also cover long term strategies to enhance your farm’s feed energy production.
Discussion topics include:
How can we best use the feeds we have on hand this winter?
What are our options for organic supplement feeds?
How can my farm produce more energy from the feeds we grow?
Hiring Right the First Time
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Middlebury, VT
Description: Hiring Right The First Time; this workshop provides small business owners and hiring managers with practical tools, including an overview of legal issues, determining employer priorities for skills their business needs, and establishing and sharpening processes for pre-screening, interviewing, and selecting qualified employees.
Led by business advisor and certified business coach Deborah S. Eibner. Sponsored by Addison County Economic Development Corporation & Vermont Small Business Development Center.
WHO should attend: Small business owners, hiring managers, non-profit management
visit www.vtsbdc.org, or call 802-388-7953
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
What's Grain got to do with it?
Time: 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Woodard's Farm, Waterbury Center
Description: NOFA Vermont Technical Assistance Program
As you prepare for the winter ahead, join NOFA-VT Farm Advisor Willie Gibson to explore ideas on feed sources and feeding strategies. Discussion groups will also cover long term strategies to enhance your farm’s feed energy production.
Discussion topics include:
How can we best use the feeds we have on hand this winter?
What are our options for organic supplement feeds?
How can my farm produce more energy from the feeds we grow?
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Direct Market Pricing Strategy for Farmers
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Randolph, VT
Description: These FREE one-day clinics will provide hands-on opportunities to learn about various cost-based pricing techniques using your own production and financial data. Participants will also explore market placement and promotion considerations related to the price points you want to achieve. Follow-up mentoring and technical assistance will be available.
Pre-registration is required! Limited space available.
Register at www.uvm.edu/farmpricing/sign-2012-pricing-clinics. To request a disability-related accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Jessie Schmidt at 802-223-2389 x203 or 866-860-1382 (toll free in VT) by October 10, 2012, so we may assist you.
UVM Extension Master Compooster Course
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Locations throughout Vermont
Description: Presented by UVM Extension Master Gardener Prgoram, this 4-session course is an in-depth study of backyard composting. Your instructors are professionals within Vermont's green industry. Students must successfully complete the course, and earn 20 hours as Volunteers in community projects. MC Interns will receive support and guidance from the UVM Home Horticulture Program. Though these programs are separate, Extension Master Composter volunteer hours can also be applied as Extension Master Gardener hours.
Course will take place in Bennington, Brattleboro, Johnson, Lyndon, Middlebury, Montpelier, Newport, Randolph, Rutland, Springfield, St. Albans, White River Jct, and Williston.
Website: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/?Page=MasterComposterCourseInfo.htm
Register here: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/documents/2012composteremailregform.pdf
If you would like a 2012 Course registration form mailed to you, please send your name and postal address to master.gardener@uvm.edu or contact (802)656-9562.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Northeast Sustainable Ag Working Group Conference
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Saratoga Springs, NY
Description: "It Takes A Region" 2012
Link to online registration via www.nefood.org/page/registration. Bring a buddy: Purchase one registration at the early or regular rate. Your "buddy" -- a colleague, board member, constituent, community member — pays only $90!
LODGING: Save 9% on hotel by reserving through NESAWG through October 4th
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
North Country Fruit & Vegetable Seminar and Trade Show
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Whitefield, NH
Description: We have invited local and regional businesses who market goods and services for farmers to set up a table and display their products. We are fortunate to have some new participants this year along with some familiar faces. This is a great opportunity to meet personally with them.The brochure for registration and the agenda can be found online at extension.unh.edu/Counties/Grafton/Docs/NCFandV12.pdf
At Mountain View Grand Resort
Rescheduled! Making a Farm Marketing Plan--Webinar
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Online
Description: Due to the approaching storm, Making a Farm Marketing Plan has been postponed until Nov. 13 at 7 pm. See Nov. 13 for a full webinar description.
On the last Tuesday of each month, at 7 pm, the UVM Extension New Farmer Project offers an online webinar on topics of interest to new farmers. You can find the latest listing of upcoming webinars at www.uvm.edu/newfarmer/?Page=webinars/upcoming_webinars.php&SM=webinars/sub-menu.html
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Sustainable Vegetable Production Short Course
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Marlboro, MA
Description: To assist new vegetable farmers, UMass Extension is offering a course in Sustainable Vegetable Production. This course is designed for beginning farmers wishing to gain an understanding of horticultural fundamentals and strategies and their relation to environmental quality.
Holiday Inn265 Lakeside Ave Marlboro, MA, 07152Cost: $675 includes all materials
Website: UMass Extension Sustainable Vegetable Production Short Course
Contact: UMass Extension
Contact Email: eweeks@umext.umass.edu
Contact Phone: 413-545-0895
Thursday, November 1, 2012
UVM Extension Master Compooster Course
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Locations throughout Vermont
Description: Presented by UVM Extension Master Gardener Prgoram, this 4-session course is an in-depth study of backyard composting. Your instructors are professionals within Vermont's green industry. Students must successfully complete the course, and earn 20 hours as Volunteers in community projects. MC Interns will receive support and guidance from the UVM Home Horticulture Program. Though these programs are separate, Extension Master Composter volunteer hours can also be applied as Extension Master Gardener hours.
Course will take place in Bennington, Brattleboro, Johnson, Lyndon, Middlebury, Montpelier, Newport, Randolph, Rutland, Springfield, St. Albans, White River Jct, and Williston.
Website: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/?Page=MasterComposterCourseInfo.htm
Register here: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/documents/2012composteremailregform.pdf
If you would like a 2012 Course registration form mailed to you, please send your name and postal address to master.gardener@uvm.edu or contact (802)656-9562.
Friday, November 2, 2012
One on One Ag Finance Hour
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Berlin UVM Extension Office
Description: Now is a great time to update your financials. “Ag Finance Hour” is a time to sit down with a UVM Extension Farm Business Management specialist, one-on-one, to work on the financial planning, critical to your farm’s success. Meetings last an hour to an hour and a half and are focused on developing balance sheets, cash budgets or completing financial analysis.
Middlebury UVM Extension Office: Fridays: October 5th, November 30th , December 28th
Berlin UVM Extension Office: Fridays: November 2nd; December 7th
There is a $15 registration fee.
Call now to schedule an appointment with Christi Sherlock or Erin Clark 802-223-2389
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Paneer, Ricotta, and Chevre Making
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Sudbury, VT
Description: At Trevins Farm:
Troy Peabody will be instructing people on how to make cheese from goats milk. For over three years Rural Vermont has been offering dairy classes to teach the basic skills of cheese making and to connect folks who are looking for a raw source to connect with farmers selling it. Novembers classes mark a slight shift in the format to include an extra hour of instruction and a complementary lunch. guests can look forward to gathering around a farm table to swap stories, ask questions, and enjoy a vegetarian soup, cider, fruit and plenty of cheese! Class fee is $50. All proceeds benefit Rural Vermont. Spots are limited and advance registration is required. To sign up, email shelby@ruralvermont.org or call (802)223-7222.
Unlocking the Renewable Wealth of Our Soils with Mark Fulford
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Concord, NH
Description: Location: McLane Audobon Center
Farming in the age of Global Climate Change requires farmers to have a knowledge and skill set that allows us to grow healthy soil in spite of extreme weather conditions. Mark Fulford will guide us in a discussion on the best practices he has discovered in his world travels on caring for a farm's most important asset - the soil. This is an interactive workshop with Mark, covering the topics of greatest interest to the audience: - Crop Plans - How to choose crops that are best for your existing conditions - Early & Late Ground Options with soil types and access druing extremem weather. - Compost - Different recipes for different crops - Innoculants - Populating soils with teas, drenches and biological products that decompose and transfer elements to plants. - Weed Control Methods - Weed bank reduction with short fallows, stale bed planting, flamers, vinegar clean cultivation practices and timing. - Understanding soil microbes and their relationships with plants. - Biological Applications.
Leasing Your Land to a Farmer for Non-Farming Land Owners
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Upper Valley - New Hampshire
Description: For more information, contact:
Mike Ghia
Ewetopia Farm
Soil, Crop, Grazing, and Farm Business Consulting
UVM Extension/Intervale Farm Viability Business and Farm Transfer Planner
VT Field Staff for Land for Good www.landforgood.org
Saxtons River, VT 05154
ewetopia@sover.net
mike@landforgood.org
802-869-1214
view our video: www.landforgood.org/LFG_video.html
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Harvest Swap
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Greensboro, VT
Description:
First Annual Harvest Swap, November 4, 2-4pm at the Lakeview Elementary School in Greensboro. Here’s your chance to try someone else’s homegrown handiwork and bring some more variety to your pantry. Bring items that you have grown and/or preserved to swap. Items will be swapped on a one for one basis. Bring items with an estimated value of $5 or $5 increments. For ex-ample: a quart of canned tomatoes, a jar of jelly, a loaf of bread, a large winter squash, a bag of dried vegetables or a tea blend. For this first event we will try to swap with-out too much planned structure and see how it goes. For more information call 755-6336 or email swapsisters@gmail.com. Bring an extra item for sharing a taste at the event if you like.
Lakeview Elementary School in Greensboro, VTGreensboro
Cost: free
Contact Email: swapsisters@gmail.com
Contact Phone: 755-6336
Monday, November 5, 2012
Addison County Homeopathy for Farm Animals Study Group
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location: Leicester VT
Description: Meeting on the first Monday of each month, free and open to all levels. Great peer support; learn how other farmers are applying homeopathy on their farms. Our discussions are relaxed and usually include some theory and case analysis. Bring your resources (if you have them) and a current or past case that you would like to discuss or share. More info: Annie Claghorn foxclag@gmavt.net 802-247-3979 or Bay Hammond bkhammond@shoreham.net 897-2121.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
SBA Loan Clinics
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Location: Online.
Description: After preparing a business plan, the next step for many small business is obtaining financing. Join the VT Small Business Administration to learn about SBA’s lending role and how an SBA loan can benefit your business. The clinics will help you prepare a loan application, learn lender credit requirements for loan approval, find sources of capital to start or grow your business, understand loan interest rates, terms, amounts, and collateral requirements, and how to approach a lender to improve your chances for approval by knowing what they are looking for. You can join from 9;:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. To learn how to participate, go to www.sba.gov/content/montpelier-sba-loan-clinics-0. For more information, call (802) 828-4422 or email Vallerie.Morse@sba.gov or visit www.sba.gov/vt.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Scaling Up for Sales to Institutions
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Description: This one day workshop will help growers, producers and distributors learn the ins and outs of selling local food products to schools, colleges and universities across the state. Sodexo provides food management services to the majority of Vermont’s colleges and universities and oversees school food service and corporate kitchens in every corner of the state. Institutional demand for local foods is increasing across every production category and is not just limited to produce.
To inquire with questions or participate in the pre-attendance interview, please contact:
Annie Harlow at ahhannieahh@yahoo.com or 802-922-7060.
Sponsored by Sodexo, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets, NOFA-VT, and the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund.
This farm to institution initiative is supported by the VT Farm to Plate Aggregation and Distribution Working Group.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Whole Diet CSA
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Location: Duncannon, PA
Description: Join PA-WAgN for an entertaining view into a vibrant and creative farm and farm family! Judi Radel and her family operate a diversified 160 acre farm in Dauphin, PA (YeeHaw Farm) with a real zeal for farming. They milk dairy cows from which they make their own butter. They have dairy and meat goats, dairy and meat sheep, broiler chickens, laying hens, hogs, Hereford beef cattle, geese, turkeys, miniature donkeys, farm cats, 3 large farm dogs and a little Boston Terrier.
For more information: agsci.psu.edu/wagn/events/the-whole-diet-csa
Contact: Patty Neinter
Phone: 814-865-7031
What's Grain got to do with it?
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location: Hill Top Farm, Pownal, VT
Description: NOFA Vermont Technical Assistance Program
As you prepare for the winter ahead, join NOFA-VT Farm Advisor Willie Gibson to explore ideas on feed sources and feeding strategies. Discussion groups will also cover long term strategies to enhance your farm’s feed energy production.
Discussion topics include:
How can we best use the feeds we have on hand this winter?
What are our options for organic supplement feeds?
How can my farm produce more energy from the feeds we grow?
UVM Extension Master Compooster Course
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Locations throughout Vermont
Description: Presented by UVM Extension Master Gardener Prgoram, this 4-session course is an in-depth study of backyard composting. Your instructors are professionals within Vermont's green industry. Students must successfully complete the course, and earn 20 hours as Volunteers in community projects. MC Interns will receive support and guidance from the UVM Home Horticulture Program. Though these programs are separate, Extension Master Composter volunteer hours can also be applied as Extension Master Gardener hours.
Course will take place in Bennington, Brattleboro, Johnson, Lyndon, Middlebury, Montpelier, Newport, Randolph, Rutland, Springfield, St. Albans, White River Jct, and Williston.
Website: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/?Page=MasterComposterCourseInfo.htm
Register here: www.uvm.edu/mastergardener/documents/2012composteremailregform.pdf
If you would like a 2012 Course registration form mailed to you, please send your name and postal address to master.gardener@uvm.edu or contact (802)656-9562.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Business Essentials - Pricing and Marketing your Landscaping Ser
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Rockfall, CT
Description: Join Frank Crandall and Anne DiFrancesco for a half-day advanced workshop focusing on business planning, branding, advertising, and tracking your success along the way. This workshop concludes with a business panel featuring Frank, Anne, and Laurence Coronis of Coronis Consulting, and provides a packet of templates and forms that can be used in your own business. The packet is a $95 value that is included with the registration fee. Learn more and register at organiclandcare.net/education/advanced-workshops
This workshop is worth 4 AOLCP credits.
Connecticut Forest and Park Association
16 Meriden Road Rockfall, CT, 06481
Cost: $80 - AOLCPs and NOFA members; $90 - non-members
Website: Organic Land Care Program Advanced Workshop Page
Contact: Kristiane Huber Contact Email: kristiane@ctnofa.org Contact Phone: 203.888.5146
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Leasing Your Land to a Farmer for Non-Farming Land Owners
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Rutland, VT Area
Description: For more information:
Mike Ghia
Ewetopia Farm
Soil, Crop, Grazing, and Farm Business Consulting
UVM Extension/Intervale Farm Viability Business and Farm Transfer Planner
VT Field Staff for Land for Good www.landforgood.org
Saxtons River, VT 05154
ewetopia@sover.net
mike@landforgood.org
802-869-1214
view our video: www.landforgood.org/LFG_video.html
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Bionutrient Rich Crop Production Workshop
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Shelburne Farms, VT
Description: The Bionutrient Rich Crop Production workshops are designed to inform and support participants to grasp and apply innovative and reliable principles and practices for producing more nutritious food crops that lead to healthier lives. The learning focus of the series includes soil biology, mineralogy and energy dynamics. At the same time, we intend to establish a relational infrastructure among growers that will provide the basis for increasing collaboration between them, and also with the businesses and organizations that supply their needs and buy their products.
Cost: $150, scholarships available
Contact: Gary Neves, Bionutrient Food Association Contact Email: gary@bionutrient.org Contact Phone: 978-257-2627
For more information: www.bionutrient.org/workshops
Monday, November 12, 2012
Ag Literacy Week
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Vermont-wide
Description: The NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors, and many of their colleagues in the professions of agriculture and related services, are excited to work towards an “agricultural literacy” in our state.
NOFA-VT is partnering with educational professionals and their institutions who are interested in this movement, to join together for “Agricultural Literacy Week”- a dedicated week of activities focused on agriculture. This is the first year for this endeavor and will occur November 12-16, 2012. Many schools, libraries, and community groups may have or will develop their own unique activities for this week, however the regional NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors can provide resources and help develop meaningful activities.
Contact Email: abbie@nofavt.org Contact Phone: 802-434-4122
Website: nofavt.org/programs/farm-community-mentors#mentors
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Ag Literacy Week
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Vermont-wide
Description: The NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors, and many of their colleagues in the professions of agriculture and related services, are excited to work towards an “agricultural literacy” in our state.
NOFA-VT is partnering with educational professionals and their institutions who are interested in this movement, to join together for “Agricultural Literacy Week”- a dedicated week of activities focused on agriculture. This is the first year for this endeavor and will occur November 12-16, 2012. Many schools, libraries, and community groups may have or will develop their own unique activities for this week, however the regional NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors can provide resources and help develop meaningful activities.
Contact Email: abbie@nofavt.org Contact Phone: 802-434-4122
Website: nofavt.org/programs/farm-community-mentors#mentors
Ground Work: A series on cultivating a sustainable future throug
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Vermont Technical College
Description: Ground Work
A series on cultivating a sustainable future through education, applied research and innovation
Conference one of a four part series:
Entrepreneurship
November 13, 2012 9:30-2:30
With keynote speaker Richard Waybright, world-renowned farmer, innovator and operator of Mason-Dixon Farms.
Cost: $25 Contact: Ingrid Van Steamburg
Contact Email: Ivansteamburg@vtc.edu
Contact Phone: 802-728-1339
Making a Farm Marketing Plan Webinar
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Online
Description: Have you ever wondered what a marketing plan is and if you should have one? Are you good at growing things but not as confident selling them? Are you considering entering new markets or selling a new product? Are you trying to figure out which promotional tools are the best use of your time and money? If marketing is on your mind, join us for the next Vermont New Farmer Project webinar. Rose Wilson, consultant in marketing, business planning, and business development for farms, will lead you through the steps for creating a marketing plan for your farm. While walking through the marketing plan Rose will share tips on how to begin market research, choose your markets, develop marketing goals and prioritize marketing efforts. Bring your questions and plan for an interactive and engaged hour all about marketing!
Plan to join the webinar about 15 minutes before it begins. Visit www.uvm.edu/newfarmer/?Page=webinars/upcoming_webinars.php&SM=webinars/sub-menu.html and click on the webinar title to join.
On the last Tuesday of each month, at 7 pm, the UVM Extension New Farmer Project offers an online webinar on topics of interest to new farmers. You can find hte latest listing of upcoming webinars at www.uvm.edu/newfarmer/?Page=webinars/upcoming_webinars.html&SM=webinars/sub-menu.html
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Ag Literacy Week
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Vermont-wide
Description: The NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors, and many of their colleagues in the professions of agriculture and related services, are excited to work towards an “agricultural literacy” in our state.
NOFA-VT is partnering with educational professionals and their institutions who are interested in this movement, to join together for “Agricultural Literacy Week”- a dedicated week of activities focused on agriculture. This is the first year for this endeavor and will occur November 12-16, 2012. Many schools, libraries, and community groups may have or will develop their own unique activities for this week, however the regional NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors can provide resources and help develop meaningful activities.
Contact Email: abbie@nofavt.org Contact Phone: 802-434-4122
Website: nofavt.org/programs/farm-community-mentors#mentors
Butter, Mozzarella and Camembert Cheese Making
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Shrewsbury, VT
Description: For over three years Rural Vermont has been offering dairy classes to teach the basic skills of cheese making and to connect folks who are looking for a raw source to connect with farmers selling it. Novembers classes mark a slight shift in the format to include an extra hour of instruction and a complementary lunch. guests can look forward to gathering around a farm table to swap stories, ask questions, and enjoy a vegetarian soup, cider, fruit and plenty of cheese!
Class fee is $50. All proceeds benefit Rural Vermont. Spots are limited and advance registration is required. To sign up, email shelby@ruralvermont.org or call (802)223-7222.
Michael Phillips lecture on Orchard Management
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Plymouth, NH
Description: The presentation will focus on growing healthy fruit. The primary role as orchardists is to build system health. Come learn about fungal allies, root relationships, and the biodiversity that makes good fruit possible. Holistic orcharding involves a wide breadth of knowledge and timeliness, yet one fact stands clear, we can have beautiful apples, peaches and the like, all grown without chemical intervention. This presentation will touch on a broad range of alternative approaches to meet the challenges of any site. He will be presenting at Boyd 144 on the Plymouth State Campus at 7pm on November 14th. Apples have a long cherished history in New England. For generations we have delighted in the spring flowers and delicious fall fruit. The preservation of cider and sauce nourishes us through the long winter months. The challenge of producing an unblemished consistent high quality organic fruit is immense.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
2nd Annual Financing the Working Landscape Conference
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: American Legion, Middlebury, Ver
Description: Great Information and Networking Opportunities for Local Businesses, Entrepreneurs and Capital and Service Providers
Presented by:
Addison County Relocalization Network (ACORN)
Addison County Economic Development Corporation
Addison County Regional Planning Commission
Ag Literacy Week
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Vermont-wide
Description: The NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors, and many of their colleagues in the professions of agriculture and related services, are excited to work towards an “agricultural literacy” in our state.
NOFA-VT is partnering with educational professionals and their institutions who are interested in this movement, to join together for “Agricultural Literacy Week”- a dedicated week of activities focused on agriculture. This is the first year for this endeavor and will occur November 12-16, 2012. Many schools, libraries, and community groups may have or will develop their own unique activities for this week, however the regional NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors can provide resources and help develop meaningful activities.
Contact Email: abbie@nofavt.org Contact Phone: 802-434-4122
Website: nofavt.org/programs/farm-community-mentors#mentors
Hiring Right The First Time
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Middlebury, VT
Description: NOTE: This event was scheduled for 10/30/12 but has been RESCHEDULED for 11/15 due to storm.
Hiring Right The First Time; this workshop provides small business owners and hiring managers with practical tools, including an overview of legal issues, determining employer priorities for skills their business needs, and establishing and sharpening processes for pre-screening, interviewing, and selecting qualified employees.
Led by business advisor and certified business coach Deborah S. Eibner. Sponsored by Addison County Economic Development Corporation & Vermont Small Business Development Center.
WHO should attend: Small business owners, hiring managers, non-profit management
visit www.vtsbdc.org, or call 802-388-7953
ACEDC/SBDC Conference Room 1590 Route 7 Southv Suite #8 Middlebury, VT, 05753
Cost: $49/person (2nd attendee from the same business: only $20)
Contact: Addison County Economic Development Corporation Contact Email: info@addisoncountyedc.org
Contact Phone: 802-388-7953
Cost: $49/person (2nd attendee from the same business: only $20)
Friday, November 16, 2012
Ag Literacy Week
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: Vermont-wide
Description: The NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors, and many of their colleagues in the professions of agriculture and related services, are excited to work towards an “agricultural literacy” in our state.
NOFA-VT is partnering with educational professionals and their institutions who are interested in this movement, to join together for “Agricultural Literacy Week”- a dedicated week of activities focused on agriculture. This is the first year for this endeavor and will occur November 12-16, 2012. Many schools, libraries, and community groups may have or will develop their own unique activities for this week, however the regional NOFA-VT Farm to Community Mentors can provide resources and help develop meaningful activities.
Contact Email: abbie@nofavt.org Contact Phone: 802-434-4122
Website: nofavt.org/programs/farm-community-mentors#mentors
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Capital City's Thanksgiving Holiday Farmers Market
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Montpelier High School, VT
Description: It's the largest market of the year for the Capital City Farmers market - 49 vendors. Get all your ingredients for your localvore Thanksgiving meal, plus prepared foods and crafts for the holidays. Door prizes every half hour.