New Farmer Calendar
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.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Agriculture Supported Community
Time: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Location: Middlebury, VT
Description: Josh Slotnick is a farmer and professor at the University of Montana's PEAS Farm. Josh will speak on the intersections of food, farming, community, environment, and education, and how they all work together to create a better world. He will discuss both the nitty gritty of how the PEAS farm model might help the Middlebury college farm grow, and also how he has seen the PEAS farm become more than just a space for agriculture. After farming for 15 years, and managing the UM PEAS farm as a community space, he has much to share on how agriculture can support community! The PEAS farm has become one of Missoula's community spaces and icons-- come hear Josh share his lessons!
Middlebury College BiCentennial Hall ROOM 104Middlebury, VT, 05753
Cost: Free
Contact: Katie Michels
Contact Email:
kmichels@middlebury.edu
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Barley Fodder Feeding for Organic Dairies
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Webinar
Description: Organic dairy farmer John Stoltzfus has worked over the past few years to perfect his method of growing barley fodder on his New York farm. In this webinar, he and Fay Benson of Cornell University will discuss the benefits and challenges of growing and feeding fodder to dairy animals. Other animals (from horses to chickens) also have benefited from the practice and their owners may be able to adopt the principals addressed in this webinar.
Register at www1.gotomeeting.com/register/292906473
Where are the Grants? NFP Webinar
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Online
Description: As a new farmer, accessing the money you need to get your farm started and to keep it operating can be a big challenge. The idea of finding a grant to help fund your farm operation is an alluring proposition. However, while opportunities for grant funding do exist, as the saying goes, there is no such thing as free money. Mary Peabody, director of the UVM Ext New Farmer Project, will talk about some common grants available to farmers, the benefits and drawbacks of pursuing grant funding for your farm, and how to think strategically about using conventional and alternative financing to support your operation through the start-up phase. Where are the Grants? Funding Strategies for the New Farm with Mary Peabody, Community Resources & Economic Development Specialist, UVM Extension.
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 the latest listing of upcoming webinars at www.uvm.edu/newfarmer/?Page=webinars/upcoming_webinars.php&SM=webinars/sub-menu.html
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Building a Sustainable Business Registration Deadline
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Location: Online
Description: For start-ups to five years in business
Upcoming sessions: Dec. 5, 12, & 19 and January 9, 16, & 23 (January 30 reserved for snowdate) from 1-4 pm in Berlin, Middlebury, Morrisville, and White River Junction.
Sessions will be held simultaneously in all three locations using a combination of distance technology and on-site instructors.
The Building a Sustainable Business course guides participants through developing a business plan for farm businesses. Most useful for people who have completed Growing Places and/or who have at least one year of production/financial records of their own. Offered at multiple locations in Vermont. More Building a Sustainable Business course information and registration materials: www.uvm.edu/newfarmer/?Page=classes/basb.html&SM=classes/sub-menu.html
No Kid Left Behind Symposium
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Montpelier, VT
Description: Noble Hall - Vermont College
It's no secret that value-added agricultural processing is one of the fastest growing sectors in the Northeast Kingdom's economy. That's why NVDA is one of the proud sponsors of "NO KID LEFT BEHIND" a symposium on the challenges and solutions for bringing more value to Vermont's dairy goat farms. On a typical dairy goat farm, 80% of all kids are sold as a commodity, adding very little to the farm's bottom line.This symposium provides a structured and strategic conversation with producers, processors, distributors, funders, chefs, and the agricultural community in general.
Chevon (goat meat) presents a critical opportunity to bring more value to Vermont's dairy farms. The event will spend a good deal of time discussing this opportunity.
There is no fee to attend, but reservations are recommended. Contact Shirley Richardson Shirley@vermontchevon.com (802) 535-4110. Feel free to forward this information to others who may be interested in the future of dairy goat farming in Vermont. www.vermontchevon.com
Thursday, November 29, 2012
CLOSING THE LOCAL CAPITAL LOOP: Financing the working landscape
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Middlebury American Legion
Description: On Nov. 29, 2012, businesses connected to the working landscape will have the opportunity to meet with service providers, capital providers, and their fellow entrepreneurs for a day of networking, discussion, and education. Maple syrup producers, farmers, food manufacturers, woodworkers, and other regional business owners can explore ways to energize their plans and grow their businesses.
Advance registration runs through Nov. 8 at $25 ($15 for students), and increases to $30/$20 on Nov. 9. To register by mail, please make your check payable to “ACORN” with your name, business and contact information and mail it to: PO Box 65, Middlebury, VT 05753.
For more information: acornvt.org/2012/10/fwl-2012/
Friday, November 30, 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
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Cheese, Butter, Yogurt-Making Class
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Bethel, VT
Description: Learn how to make soft cheeses, butter and yogurt in your own kitchen using farm fresh milk. Get acquainted with using butter molds and adding herbs or other flavors to our final product. The class will include a handout with instructions. Products such as cheese and yogurt culture, cheese cloth, citric acid, and farm fresh milk will be for sale.
Where: Earthwise Farm and Forest, 341 Macintosh Hill Rd, Bethel, VT (Randolph mailing address)
Cost: $40 per person
Pre-Registration required: space limited to 15 people.
For more information: Contact Lisa McCrory, Phone: 234-5524 or Email: lmccrory@hughes.net
visit our website: www.earthwisefarmandforest.com/raw_dairy_processing.html
Tuesday, December 4, 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, December 5, 2012
Farmer to Farmer Advanced Conference on High Tunnel Growing
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Lake Morey Inn, Fairlee, VT
Description: University of Vermont Extension, NOFA Vermont and the Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association are presenting a two day conference on high tunnel growing on December 5-6, 2012. This program is intended for commercial growers, with lots of opportunity to interact and learn from each other over two days.
Program agenda can be found at www.uvm.edu/vtvegandberry/Tunnel_Conference_Dec12.pdf.
The registration fee is $150 and includes meals and breaks, but not lodging. This fee covers the two days of the conference, - there is no single day or other pricing option. Contact Lake Morey Inn to make lodging reservations (802) 333-4311 and mention the conference. Questions? Vern Grubinger, UVM Extension, (802) 257-7967 x303 or vernon.grubinger@uvm.edu.
Register here: vthightunnelcconference.eventbrite.com/#
Friday, December 7, 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