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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170406T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170406T140000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170306T224011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170306T224011Z
UID:22699-1491483600-1491487200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Record-Keeping Strategies for Organic Certification
DESCRIPTION:Record-Keeping Strategies for Organic Certification Webinar \nThis online webinar will cover all you need to know about farm record-keeping for organic certification. Specific topics include simplifying records on your farm for efficiency and organic certification requirements as well as compost production records needed to gain approval for use on certified organic farms. \nDate: Thursday April 6th\nTime: 1:00pm – 2:00pm\nLocation: Online\nCost: FREE \nRegistration required\, reserve your seat now! Click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-record-keeping-strategies-for-organic-certification/
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170404T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170404T203000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20161201T160743Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170321T174136Z
UID:21727-1491325200-1491337800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:New Date: CISA Winter Workshop Series: Land Tenure — Alternatives to Ownership and Negotiating a Lease
DESCRIPTION:This workshop will explore the alternatives to land ownership and the advantages and challenges to these specific arrangements. Learn how to negotiate and craft lease agreements and build good relationships with all stakeholders as business people and land stewards. We will also discuss where to find additional support based on your specific land needs and situations. \nPresenters: Rachel Murray and Kathy Ruhf – Land For Good \nThis is the last in our eight session Winter Workshop series\, Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm \n\n \n\n\n\nRegister for Workshop\n\n\nApril 4\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDApril 4\, 2017: non-LH Memeber $18.00 USD\n\n\nEnter name(s) of attendees:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nThe full series:\nCISA invites you to join our eight-workshop series on Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm beginning January 2017. In order to draw a map of the future of your farm\, you need a solid foundation with which to review your past and assess your present. This workshop series will support farm owners and operators in decision making for realistic long-term financial\, operational\, marketing\, and personal goals. Examples in the workshops will be farm related\, but the skills and methodology will be relevant to all businesses. \nParticipation in the whole series is encouraged. You will be eligible for a one-on-one consultation by attending one Business Plan workshop. Attending three workshops gives you the eligibility for an additional one-on-one consultation related to the topic of any workshop being held. Dinner will be served at each session. The cost to attend the series is $90 for Local Hero members\, or $15 for each individual workshop. The non-member fee is $110 for the series\, or $18 for each individual workshop. Register below or contact Stevie Schafenacker at stevie@buylocalfood.org or (413) 665-7100 x27. If cost is a barrier to your participation\, please feel free to contact Stevie to discuss options as we want everyone to be able to get the training they need to effectively operate their business. Scholarships may be available. \nThe first half hour of each workshop will be for food and socializing. Workshops will begin promptly thereafter. \nFunding for CISA’s “The Crossroads: Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future” is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)\, Farm Service Agency under Federal Award Identification No. USDA-FA-MA-6-007\, USDA/National Institute of Food and Agriculture under award 2016-70017-25423\, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service through grant 16FMPPMA0002 and by individual contributors and Local Hero members. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/land-tenure-alternatives-to-ownership-and-negotiating-a-lease/
LOCATION:Holyoke Community College Kittredge Center\, Room 303\, 303 Homestead Ave\, Holoyke\, MA\, 01040\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170403T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170403T110000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170316T200931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170324T152207Z
UID:22806-1491213600-1491217200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Healthy Incentives Program - Informational Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Presented by the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\, who will be holding several informational webinars over the coming weeks\, so you can learn more about the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)\, how your business may benefit from participating\, and get answers to questions about the new benefit program. \nRegister here \nInformational webinar for the Healthy Incentives Program for farmers and market managers. \nJoin the meeting: https://join.me/944-424-554 \nOn a computer\, use any browser. Nothing to download.\nOn a phone or tablet\, launch the join.me app and enter meeting code: 944-424-554 \nJoin the audio conference:\nDial a phone number and enter access code\, or connect via internet. \nBy phone:\nUnited States – Hartford\, CT +1.860.970.0010\nAccess Code 944-424-554# \nBy computer via internet:\nJoin the meeting\, click the phone icon and select ‘Call via internet’. A small download might be required.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/healthy-incentives-program-informational-webinar-4/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170329T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170329T160000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170316T200330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170324T152444Z
UID:22805-1490799600-1490803200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Healthy Incentives Program - Informational Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Presented by the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\, who will be holding several informational webinars over the coming weeks\, so you can learn more about the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)\, how your business may benefit from participating\, and get answers to questions about the new benefit program. \nRegister here \nInformational webinar for Healthy Incentives Program for farmers and market managers. \nAlso available on April 3 at 10am \nJoin the meeting: https://join.me/923-869-603 \nOn a computer\, use any browser. Nothing to download.\nOn a phone or tablet\, launch the join.me app and enter meeting code: 923-869-603 \nJoin the audio conference:\nDial a phone number and enter access code\, or connect via internet. \nBy phone:\nUnited States – Hartford\, CT +1.860.970.0010\nAccess Code 923-869-603# \nBy computer via internet:\nJoin the meeting\, click the phone icon and select ‘Call via internet’. A small download might be required.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/healthy-incentives-program-informational-webinar-3/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170329
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170330
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170213T230916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T221212Z
UID:22342-1490745600-1490831999@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:2017 Farm Share Fair
DESCRIPTION:Farm Share Fair 2017 is now accepting vendor and sponsor applications for farms and food companies. The Farm Share Fair is the Boston area’s direct-to-consumer marketing event for food producers across Massachusetts. Consumers want to meet their farmers and have the opportunity to compare options. Vendors – get to know your target market one-on-one\, and have the opportunity to sell your CSA\, Farm Share or Home Delivery programs\, or sell your food product to a great Boston foodie crowd.  On-site sampling\, and food or product sales welcome! This annual event draws over 500 participants\, and will be held at THE ARMORY on March 29\, 2017.   Sign up now – vendor space is limited! Sponsorship visibility opportunities available. \nVENDOR AND SPONSOR APPLICATIONS for 2017 FARM SHARE FAIR \nFarm Share Fair 2017\nWednesday\, March 29th\nThe Armory\n191 Highland Ave\nSomerville\, MA 02143\nwww.farmsharefair.com \nCLICK HERE to sign up.  \nQuestions? This event is produced by Mindy Harris Communications.  Email mindy@mindyharriscommunications.com
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/2017-farm-share-fair/
LOCATION:The Armory\, 191 Highland Ave\, Somerville\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170327T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170327T110000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170316T195956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170324T153044Z
UID:22804-1490608800-1490612400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Healthy Incentives Program - Informational Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Presented by the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\, who will be holding several informational webinars over the coming weeks\, so you can learn more about the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)\, how your business may benefit from participating\, and get answers to questions about the new benefit program. \nRegister here \nInformational webinar for the Healthy Incentives Program for farmers and market managers. \nOther upcoming opportunities:\nMarch 29 at 3pm\nApril 3 at 10am \nJoin the meeting: https://join.me/837-384-222 \nOn a computer\, use any browser. Nothing to download.\nOn a phone or tablet\, launch the join.me app and enter meeting code: 837-384-222 \nJoin the audio conference:\nDial a phone number and enter access code\, or connect via internet. \nBy phone:\nUnited States – Hartford\, CT +1.860.970.0010\nAccess Code 837-384-222# \nBy computer via internet:\nJoin the meeting\, click the phone icon and select ‘Call via internet’. A small download might be required.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/healthy-incentives-program-informational-webinar-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T120000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170323T134915Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170323T134915Z
UID:22891-1490436000-1490443200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Pruning Raspberries & other Bramble Fruit - a Hands-on Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Raspberries are among the favorite fruits grown in home gardens and offer some of the most challenges to gardeners. There are many types of ‘bramble’ fruit including summer red\, yellow or black raspberries\, blackberries\, and fall bearing types of all colors. Each has a somewhat unique growth habit and requires specialized pruning to be most successful. This workshop will provide information on all types of raspberries and an opportunity for hands-on pruning for participants to gain confidence in pruning their own plants at home. You’ll learn about tool maintenance and sharpening\, too. Bring your own tools or use theirs. \nLed by Ms. Sonia Schloemann. \nTo register\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/pruning-raspberries-other-bramble-fruit-a-hands-on-workshop/
LOCATION:Wards Berry Farm\, 614 S. Main Street\, Sharon\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T190000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170306T202637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170306T202637Z
UID:22672-1490277600-1490295600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Growing the Local Food Market: Mini Conference
DESCRIPTION:Growing the Local Food Market: a mini-conference for Farms\, CSAs and Farmers’ Markets\nCome for an afternoon of networking\, training and resource-sharing. \nThursday\, March 23\, 2:00-7:00 PM\nLenox Community Center\, 65 Walker St\, Lenox MA \nFree attendance. \nAttend the whole day or just one portion. \nClick here to register now! \nSCHEDULE:\n2:00-6:00pm: SNAP Sign Up: drop-in information sessions & registration to become an authorized SNAP retailer; HIP info and sign-up available for Mass farmers \n2:00-3:30pm: Networking Event for farmers and market managers with a focus on marketing \n3:30-5:00pm: HIP Training for farms and farmers’ market managers \n5:00-7:00pm: Annual Farmers’ Market Manager meeting \nDETAILS: \nNetworking Event for Farmers & Farmers’ Market Managers \nJoin your fellow farmers for networking and brainstorming about how to better market your farm and products. We’ll have informal training addressing topics such as: online promotion and social media; building a brand; managing your farmers’ market stand; building customer loyalty; get to know your SNAP customers; and effective customer outreach techniques. \nHIP Training \nHIP – the Healthy Incentives Program – is a statewide program in Massachusetts that will match SNAP purchases of local fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets\, farm stands\, mobile markets and CSAs. Beginning in April\, customers will receive an instant\, dollar-for-dollar match credited to their EBT card\, which can be used at any SNAP retailer for any future SNAP eligible purchase. Berkshire households will need to spend SNAP dollars on fruits and vegetables at a CSA\, farm stand or farmers’ market to earn this HIP incentive. If you are a farmers’ market vendor\, a farm stand\, a CSA farm\, or a market manager\, this training will provide the information you need to implement and process HIP benefits. \n**All farmers’ market vendors who would like to accept HIP should attend and sign up for SNAP: HIP will be processed at individual vendor stands\, rather than through the market managers.** \nFarmers’ Market Manager Meeting \nOur annual Farmers’ Market Manager meeting provides an opportunity for markets from throughout the region to come together to brainstorm ideas and troubleshoot common problems. We’ll discuss effective marketing techniques for your market\, vendor needs\, counting and increasing customers\, and joint efforts to promote markets in the region\, including new initiatives in the works from Berkshire Grown. Bring your questions for the group\, and success stories you’d like to share! If your market is not currently signed up to take SNAP and you would like to\, be sure to come early to attend our SNAP sign-ups\, beginning at 2pm. \nSNAP Sign-Up \nAt this drop-in information session you can get your farm\, farm stand or farmers’ market authorized for SNAP and receive your USDA FNS number the very same day! USDA staff will be on site to walk you through the process and assist with your application. You will also learn about equipment options and about processing SNAP and the new Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) benefit. \nFarmers – documents required:  \nIf you intend on getting an FNS (SNAP retailer authorization) number\, please bring copies of the following documents which will be attached to your application: \nPicture ID (driver’s license or passport).\nSocial Security Card (or other official document with your name and SSN).\nCopy of voided check for bank account you will use to deposit funds. \nNon-profit 501(c)(3) Farmers’ Markets – documents required: \nFarmers Markets operated/sponsored by a non-profit are the ONLY applicants that are not required to submit verification of a Social Security number for corporate officers/board members. \nDocumentation Required: \nCopy of the IRS Determination Letter stating the organization is a 501(c)(3). A (C)(4) and (C)(6) will not be accepted.\nLetter from the sponsoring agency stating that they are sponsoring the farmers market and who they have appointed as their legal representative to operate the farmers market.\nThe application must be signed by a corporate officer or a board member. \nGovernment Owned/Operated Farmers Markets – documents required: \nDocumentation Required: \nCopy of the City/Town IRS EIN/TIN Tax Exempt Letter.\nCity/Town Official must sign the Application Certification Page.\nNo personal information is required or needed.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/growing-the-local-food-market-mini-conference/
LOCATION:Lenox Community Center\, 65 Walker Street\, Lenox\, 01240\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Berkshire Grown":MAILTO:buylocal@berkshiregrown.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T130000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170111T180128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T180128Z
UID:22028-1490270400-1490274000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Enrolling in SNAP - Is It the Right Move for You?
DESCRIPTION:USDA has continued funding through May 2017 to assist direct marketing farmers and farmers markets join the SNAP program by providing free equipment to qualified farmers and farmers markets. The National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs (NAFMNP) has created MarketLink\, an online solution to an expedited application process\, nationally negotiated rates for SNAP\, debit and credit; as well as state-of-the-art equipment\, an iPHone 6\, EMV card reader and blue-tooth connected printer. \nJoining the SNAP program involves a multiple application process that enrolls you as a SNAP retailer\, determines your eligibility for free equipment and then provides the service to accept SNAP\, debit and credit. \nThe Farmers Market Federation of NY will be holding webinars to help direct marketing farmers and market managers understand the MarketLink program and will schedule phone appointments with attendees to complete the application process. The presentations should take approximately 60 minutes for the presentation and question and answers. \nThe webinar is free to join and will help you understand the process and the value of adding SNAP to your farm or market. Register now to reserve your space on the date that best fits your schedule. \nTo register\, Click here for the registration information\, then click on the link for your choice of dates and complete the registration information. Once submitted you will receive a link to the webinar. Save that link! This is how you will access the live webinar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-enrolling-in-snap-is-it-the-right-move-for-you-6/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T173000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170315T200329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170315T200329Z
UID:22790-1490256000-1490290200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training
DESCRIPTION:Instructors: Lisa McKeag\, UMass Extension Educator & Michael Botelho\, MDAR Commonwealth Quality Program Director \nCo-sponsored by UMass Extension\, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) and Wegman’s. \nCost is $35 \nREGISTER HERE: https://www.regonline.com/builder/site/?eventid=1968514 \nPlease contact Lisa McKeag at lmckeag@umass.edu or 413-577-3976 for more information \nPrice includes the required PSA Grower Manual ($50 value)\, a Certificate of Course attendance from AFDO ($35 value)\, Certificate of attendance from UMass/MDAR and lunch and refreshments \nParticipants will learn about produce safety best practices\, key parts of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements\, and how these requirements will be enforced in MA through MDAR’s Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP). There will be time for questions and discussion\, so participants should come prepared to share their experiences and produce safety questions. \nThank you to Wegman’s for supplying lunch and refreshments. \nThis program is supported by funds from Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grant no. 2016-70020-25788 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture \nWho Should Attend \nFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule. The PSA Grower Training Course is one way to satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in § 112.22(c) that requires ‘At least one supervisor or responsible party for your farm must have successfully completed food safety training at least equivalent to that received under standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.’ \nWhat to Expect at the PSA Grower Training Course \nThe trainers will spend approximately seven hours of instruction time covering content contained in these seven modules: \n•  Introduction to Produce Safety \n•  Worker Health\, Hygiene\, and Training \n•  Soil Amendments \n•  Wildlife\, Domesticated Animals\, and Land Use \n•  Agricultural Water (Part I: Production Water; Part II: Postharvest Water) \n•  Postharvest Handling and Sanitation \n•  How to Develop a Farm Food Safety Plan \nThe course will provide a foundation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and co-management information\, FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements\, and details on how to develop a farm food safety plan. Individuals who participate in this course are expected to gain a basic understanding of: \n•  Microorganisms relevant to produce safety and where they may be   found on   the farm \n•  How to identify microbial risks\, practices that reduce risks\, and how to   begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm \n•  Parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one \n•  Requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet them. \nAfter attending the entire course\, participants will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies they have completed the training course. To receive an AFDO certificate\, a participant must be present for the entire training and submit the appropriate paperwork to their trainer at the end of the course. \n\n\n\n\nContact’s name:\n\nLisa McKeag\n\n\n\nContact’s phone:\n\n413-577-3976\n\n\n\nContact’s email:\n\nlmckeag@umass.edu
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/produce-safety-alliance-grower-training/
LOCATION:Brigham Hill Community Farm\, 37 Wheeler Road\, North Grafton\, MA\, 01536\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T203000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20161201T161148Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170130T163453Z
UID:21728-1490202000-1490214600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: Grant Essentials — Opportunities & Approaches
DESCRIPTION:Grants are great for exploring and expanding new markets\, building alt-energy structures\, and exploring farm viability. Determine if a grant is the right source for you. This presentation will help you understand\, develop\, and submit successful grant applications. We will discuss a wide range of grants as well as a more detailed presentation of SARE and MDAR programs. The Kitchen Garden will talk about their process in applying for and receiving grant funding for various projects. \nPresenters: Melissa Adams of MDAR\, The Kitchen Garden\, Sue Scheufele (SARE)\, CISA staff \nThis is the final in our eight session Winter Workshop series\, Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm \n\n \n\n\n\nRegister for Workshop\n\n\nMarch 22\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDMarch 22\, 2017: non-LH Memeber $18.00 USD\n\n\nEnter name(s) of attendees:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nThe full series:\nCISA invites you to join our eight-workshop series on Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm beginning January 2017. In order to draw a map of the future of your farm\, you need a solid foundation with which to review your past and assess your present. This workshop series will support farm owners and operators in decision making for realistic long-term financial\, operational\, marketing\, and personal goals. Examples in the workshops will be farm related\, but the skills and methodology will be relevant to all businesses. \nParticipation in the whole series is encouraged. You will be eligible for a one-on-one consultation by attending one Business Plan workshop. Attending three workshops gives you the eligibility for an additional one-on-one consultation related to the topic of any workshop being held. Dinner will be served at each session. The cost to attend the series is $90 for Local Hero members\, or $15 for each individual workshop. The non-member fee is $110 for the series\, or $18 for each individual workshop. Register below or contact Stevie Schafenacker at stevie@buylocalfood.org or (413) 665-7100 x27. If cost is a barrier to your participation\, please feel free to contact Stevie to discuss options as we want everyone to be able to get the training they need to effectively operate their business. Scholarships may be available. \nThe first half hour of each workshop will be for food and socializing. Workshops will begin promptly thereafter. \nFunding for CISA’s “The Crossroads: Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future” is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)\, Farm Service Agency under Federal Award Identification No. USDA-FA-MA-6-007\, USDA/National Institute of Food and Agriculture under award 2016-70017-25423\, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service through grant 16FMPPMA0002 and by individual contributors and Local Hero members. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/grant-essentials-opportunities-approaches/
LOCATION:Holyoke Community College Kittredge Center\, Room 303\, 303 Homestead Ave\, Holoyke\, MA\, 01040\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T130000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170316T195828Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170316T200036Z
UID:22802-1490184000-1490187600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Healthy Incentives Program - Informational Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Presented by the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources \nRegister here \nInformational webinar on the Healthy Incentives Program for farmers and market managers. \nJoin the meeting: https://join.me/425-587-159 \nOn a computer\, use any browser. Nothing to download.\nOn a phone or tablet\, launch the join.me app and enter meeting code: 425-587-159 \nJoin the audio conference:\nDial a phone number and enter access code\, or connect via internet. \nBy phone:\nUnited States – Hartford\, CT +1.860.970.0010\nAccess Code 425-587-159# \nBy computer via internet:\nJoin the meeting\, click the phone icon and select ‘Call via internet’. A small download might be required.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/healthy-incentives-program-informational-webinar/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170320
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170321
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170315T192518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170315T192633Z
UID:22785-1489968000-1490054399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:APR SARA Grant Deadline
DESCRIPTION:The deadline for the APR program SARA grant (Round 3) is Monday\, March 20. Funding up to $25\,000 may be used to conduct a survey to resolve an APR boundary issue that is of concern to the Department\, restore inactive farmland for active commercial agricultural use\, or project implementation costs associated with resource restoration for expanded agricultural production. \nExamples include clearing vegetation\, applying soil amendments\, reseeding hay fields\, costs for equipment rental\, custom work\, contractors\, and approved materials and equipment to complete a project as cost effectively as possible. Funding may also be used to restore farm resources that have been negatively impacted by flooding\, erosion\, storms\, tornadoes and other natural disasters\, such as clean up\, hiring contractors\, or renting equipment\, purchasing materials\, and other crop land restoration costs. \nResponses must be received at the MDAR Amherst office by 4:00 P.M.\, March 20\, 2017 and all projects must be completed by June 30\, 2017.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/apr-sara-grant-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170318T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170319T140000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170214T202354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T202354Z
UID:22374-1489826700-1489932000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Poultry School 2017
DESCRIPTION:Poultry School is back for it’s third year! The two-day conference is on March 18 and 19 at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills\, New York. \nWho: Poultry growers of any skill level\, from backyard flocks to serious pastured poultry farmers. \nWhat: Workshops and walking tours covering a wide range of topics on pasture-raised chicken\, turkeys\, and waterfowl\, plus plenty of time to meet other poultry-minded people\, including dinner and drinks by Blue Hill at Stone Barns. \nProgram Cost:\nFull conference: $150\nSaturday only: $85\nSunday only: $65 \nClick here for more details \nTo put your name on the early registration list\, write to sama@stonebarnscenter.org. \nPoultry School 2017 Schedule
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/poultry-school-2017/
LOCATION:Stone Barns Center\, Pocantico Hills\, NY\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170314T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170314T190000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170111T180021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T180021Z
UID:22027-1489514400-1489518000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Enrolling in SNAP - Is It the Right Move for You?
DESCRIPTION:USDA has continued funding through May 2017 to assist direct marketing farmers and farmers markets join the SNAP program by providing free equipment to qualified farmers and farmers markets. The National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs (NAFMNP) has created MarketLink\, an online solution to an expedited application process\, nationally negotiated rates for SNAP\, debit and credit; as well as state-of-the-art equipment\, an iPHone 6\, EMV card reader and blue-tooth connected printer. \nJoining the SNAP program involves a multiple application process that enrolls you as a SNAP retailer\, determines your eligibility for free equipment and then provides the service to accept SNAP\, debit and credit. \nThe Farmers Market Federation of NY will be holding webinars to help direct marketing farmers and market managers understand the MarketLink program and will schedule phone appointments with attendees to complete the application process. The presentations should take approximately 60 minutes for the presentation and question and answers. \nThe webinar is free to join and will help you understand the process and the value of adding SNAP to your farm or market. Register now to reserve your space on the date that best fits your schedule. \nTo register\, Click here for the registration information\, then click on the link for your choice of dates and complete the registration information. Once submitted you will receive a link to the webinar. Save that link! This is how you will access the live webinar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-enrolling-in-snap-is-it-the-right-move-for-you-5/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T140000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170203T160613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170203T160613Z
UID:22242-1489226400-1489240800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: QuickBooks for Farmers
DESCRIPTION:Join New Entry and Julia Shanks for a practical\, hands-on QuickBooks workshop for farmers! Learn how to: set up a chart of accounts that suits your business\, enter transactions\, track enterprise-specific data\, and generate and interpret farm financial statements. This workshop will be 4 hours long with plenty of brain breaks and time for one-on-one coaching. All participants will be provided with a computer\, QuickBooks software (for workshop use only)\, and snacks. Registration required. Space is limited so reserve your seat now! \nEarly bird tickets available through Feb. 10\, 2017: $12/each \nRegular tickets available starting Feb. 11\, 2017: $17/each \n*Please note that scholarships are available. Please email janel.wright@tufts.edu to inquire. \n\nAbout the teacher: Julia Shanks – chef and entrepreneur — is the Principal at Julia Shanks Food Consulting\, consulting with food businesses and farms\, helping them maximize profits and streamline operations through business planning\, feasibility studies and operational audits. She lectures on sustainable food systems and restaurant accounting\, sits on the advisory board of Future Chefs\, and is the regional leader of Slow Money Boston. Julia has authored two books: The Farmers Market Cookbook and The Farmer’s Office\, both published by New Society. She received her professional training as a chef at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco\, her BA from Hampshire College and an MBA Magna Cum Laude from Babson College.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-quickbooks-for-farmers/
LOCATION:Sackler Building\,  145 Harrison Avenue\, Boston\, MA\, 02111\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T150000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170227T205934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170227T205934Z
UID:22613-1489222800-1489244400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Apple Tree Grafting Workshop: Mass Aggie
DESCRIPTION:Mass Aggie Seminars 2017: A Home Garden Series \nApple Tree Grafting – a Hands-on Workshop\nSaturday\, March 11\, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. led by Dr. Wesley Autio\nUMass Cold Spring Orchard\, 391 Sabin St.\, Belchertown\, MA \nMany people do not realize that all apple varieties are reproduced by grafting – they are not grown from seed. For horticultural enthusiasts\, one of the most satisfying techniques to master is grafting. Wes Autio will present a hands-on workshop on ‘bench grafting’ and ‘cleft grafting’ of apple trees. Other grafting techniques will also be discussed. Proper tools and sharpening will be included. All participants in the workshop will graft several of their own apples trees to take home. \nThere will be a break for participants to enjoy a BYO lunch.\nThis workshop will be partially out of doors\, so please dress appropriately for potentially wet\, cold\, and muddy conditions. \nFee: $100. To register\, go to: UMassGarden.com. or mail a check payable to: Mass Aggie Seminars. Attn: Doreen York\, UMass\, 101 French Hall\, Amherst\, MA 1003-9294\nSponsored by: Nourse Farms\, OESCO\,Inc.\, and Adams County Nursery.\nTo view the entire Mass Aggie series\, go to: UMassGarden.com
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/apple-tree-grafting-workshop-mass-aggie/
LOCATION:UMass Cold Spring Orchard\, 391 Sabin St\, Belchertown
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170308T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170308T180000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170223T154057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170223T154110Z
UID:22530-1488988800-1488996000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Bobolink Project
DESCRIPTION:Earn $100 by participating in a 2-hour workshop about managing hayfields for bobolinks.\nWednesday\, March 8\, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.\nUVM Extension Office\, 130 Austine Drive #300\nBrattleboro\, Vermont \nWant to get paid to manage your hayfields for bobolinks and other grassland birds? If you own or manage a hayfield that is 10 acres or more and is habitat for breeding bobolinks\, you may be eligible to participate in a workshop organized by University of Connecticut researchers. \nFor more information and to register\, contact Anwesha Chakrabarti by Monday\, March 6.\nEmail anwesha.chakrabarti@uconn.edu and cc: Stephen.swallow@uconn.edu . Put “Bobolink Project” in the subject line.\nOr call Anwesha at 312-259-1337. \nIf you are interested but you can’t make it to the workshop on March 8\, contact Anwesha for more options. \nThis research is approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) under protocol X15-035. Your participation is completely voluntary.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/bobolink-project-workshop/
LOCATION:University of Vermont Extension Office\, 130 Austine Drive\, Brattleboro\, 05301\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Mass Audubon":MAILTO:bobolinkproject@massaudubon.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170307
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170310
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20161117T203613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161228T223113Z
UID:21631-1488844800-1489103999@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:2017 Harvest New England Conference
DESCRIPTION:The New England State Departments of Agriculture\, in cooperation with agricultural organizations across the region\, graciously invite you to participate as an exhibitor in the upcoming Harvest New England Agricultural Marketing Conference and Trade Show.  Whether you provide a product or service to farmers in New England or have a unique product for a roadside stand\, this is the show for you. Over 800 attendees joined us for our past conference in February 2015. \nGrowers from across the Northeast will convene in scenic Sturbridge\, Massachusetts on Tuesday\, March 7\, through Thursday\, March 9 at the Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center.  Booth set up is on Tuesday\, March 7 from 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm. Trade Show hours are Wednesday\, March 8\, 7:00 am – 6:30 pm\, and Thursday\, March 9\, 7:00 am – 3:15 pm. \nThe conference is sponsored by all six New England State Departments of Agriculture and Harvest New England\, in cooperation with agricultural associations from across the region\, as well as assistance from the USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. \nThis unique marketing conference targets New England growers interested in learning new marketing ideas or fine-tuning strategies for business success. There will be multiple educational and networking opportunities.  The conference schedule will allow specific times for attendees to visit the trade show to maximize your exposure. \nThe Department of Transitional Assistance will also be on hand to help direct-sale retailers sign up to accept SNAP benefits. \nTrade show space is limited; Trade show registration received by December 2 costs $425\, after December 2\, $525.  Non-profit rates are available as well. Details and online registration here. If interested in sponsoring options\, please let us know. \nDownload the save the date and share with your membership\, friends\, and constituents! Registration for attendees will be online soon. Updates will be made here: www.harvestnewengland.org/events/. For questions regarding exhibiting\, contact Rick LeBlanc\, Richard.LeBlanc@state.ma.us\, 617-626-1759.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/2017-harvest-new-england-conference/
LOCATION:Sturbridge Host Hotel\, Sturbridge \, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170302T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170302T140000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170227T204246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170227T204246Z
UID:22608-1488459600-1488463200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Navigating a Treacherous Landscape: GAP Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Free Webinar\nThursday March 2\, 2017\n1:00- 2:00 PM EST \nNavigating a Treacherous Landscape: A Practitioner’s Guide to GAP Food Safety Certification and the Food Safety Modernization Act (Part II) \n~ Bring your Food Safety\, GAP\, and FSMA questions! ~ \nResource Experts \nLindsay Gilmour\, GAP Food Safety Educator \nJeff Stoltzfus\, Food Safety Educator with Penn State Cooperative Extension \n\nRegister Today \n\nNote: This Coffee Talk is the follow-up to Lindsay Gilmour’s first webinar on navigating the treacherous landscape of food safety. This recording provides excellent framing for further conversation. Please send your questions for Lindsay to yona@chesapeakefoodshed.net\nOverview\nIn this follow up webinar\, Lindsay will be joined by Jeff Stoltzfus\, Food Safety Educator with Penn State Cooperative Extension. They will look at two contrasting farming scenarios and discuss the steps they are taking to comply with customer and FDA requirements and will take questions on GAP Food Safety and FSMA. \nFor produce growers\, now more than ever food safety certification is a major hurdle to entering and staying competitive in the wholesale marketplace. More and more buyers are requiring 3rd party audits and frequently farmers are left to find their own way through a confusing and complicated food safety landscape. Add to this the implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act and you have a perfect recipe for dismay and misinformation. In this webinar we will attempt to demystify the mysterious\, find out what questions farmers and buyers should be asking each other\, and answer some of the burning questions about FSMA and food safety audits: \nWhy produce food safety and why now?\nWhat is GAP certification?\nWhat questions should I ask? – As a farmer or as a buyer\nWhat is a food safety standard and how do I know which one to choose?\nWhen is a 3rd party audit necessary? Who is qualified to provide the audit?\nWhat training do I need?\nWho has to comply with FSMA and what does it take?\nWhat will all this cost me in time and money??\nWho can I trust?
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/navigating-a-treacherous-landscape-gap-webinar/
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Chesapeake Food Shed Network":MAILTO:christy@chesapeakefoodshed.net
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170302
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170303
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170213T210852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T193707Z
UID:22317-1488412800-1488499199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Intro to Beekeeping: BF160
DESCRIPTION:Getting your hive operation off the ground. \nWhether you currently are keeping honey bees\, or are considering adding them to your farm\, a basic understanding of bee biology\, diseases\, pests and setting up your colony for success are essential. \nAn A to Z plan starting with understanding the difference between a drone\, queen and nurse bee\, siting your apiary\, a plan for Varroa mites\, and effective winterizing techniques will help ensure your hive(s) make it through the winter so you can harvest honey the following season. \nThis course\, taught by experienced beekeepers and the NYS Honey Bee Extension Associate will give you real-world experiences paired with academic concepts. \nTarget Audience \nALL LEVELS – This course is geared for those who have plans to start keeping bees within the next 1-3 years\, or who have been keeping honey bees for fewer than three years. Disease and pest issues will focus on the Northeast region of the country\, though others will find much of the content useful to their locale. \nCourse Objectives \nAt the completion of this course\, you will: \nHave an understanding of basic bee biology\nGain management skills to support responsible decision making\nBe able to get your apiary colony through the first years of production\nWebinars \nThe bulk of the course happens on your own time\, with discussions\, readings\, and assignments in MOODLE\, our virtual classroom. To add to the experience\, webinars will be woven into the online interface of the course to allow you to meet on a weekly basis to learn from outside presenters and ask questions to address your farm issues in real time. If you miss one\, they are always recorded and posted for later viewing. Access details will be posted in MOODLE once you have registered and logged in. \nDates \nMarch 2 – April 30\, with Webinars each Thursday evening from 6:30 – 8:00pm EST \nInstructors \nLaura Biasillo is the Agricultural Economic Development Specialist for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County. \nSue Garing is a Master Beekeeper\, member of the Board of Directors (and past president) for the Southern Tier Beekeepers\, as well as on the Board of the Empire State Honey Producers\, as well as owner of Sue Garing Honey & Garlic. \nCourse Outline \nWeek 1: Getting to Know Bees \nTopics covered: Introductions. Overview of our online “campus” (Moodle)\, course outline\, and basic bee biology\, roles and jobs. We’ll discuss how to find a queen bee in your hive\, what a bee is and isn’t\, and finally the importance of having a local experienced beekeeper as your mentor and joining a local bee club. \nWeek 2: Setting Up Your Apiary \nTopics covered: Create a calendar ordering\, installing and getting your bees through the summer. Considering in setting up your apiary. “A year in the apiary” – life cycle. Time commitment. Goals and Hive Management Practices. When to order & from whom? Buying versus raising versus swarming a new queen. Timing and starter feeding. \nWeek 3: Basic Equipment for Your First Year \nTopics covered: What do you really need? Styles of equipment. Expenses. Create a budget. \nWeek 4: Basic Hive Inspection\, Part 1 \nTopics covered: Hive Inspection Protocol. Brood (why is it important and evaluating brood health). Learn to ID honey & pollen storage. Are my bees developing correctly? How much honey do they need to make it through the winter? Do I need a queen excluder? \nWeek 5: Basic Hive Inspection\, Part 2 (What to do when things go wrong) \nTopics covered: Hive Robbers. Swarm. Re-queening. Bad temperament & disease. \nWeek 6: Introduction to Pests & Diseases \nTopics covered: Varroa Mites. Protocol options for common pests & diseases. \nWeek 7: I have honey\, now what? \nTopics covered: Basics of honey harvesting. Packaging\, labeling & storage. What you need to do if you want to sell honey & value-added products. \nWeek 8: Preparing Your Colony for the winter \nTopics covered: Feeding options\, evaluation & timing. Bee biology review. Insulation options. Pest protection. \nCost \nCourse fee is $280. Sign up a month in advance to get a $25 discount on each course\, plus a $50 total discount off registration for 3 or more courses.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/intro-to-beekeeping-bf160/
LOCATION:Cornell University Small Farms Program\, Webinar
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170302
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170303
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170213T210220Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T193806Z
UID:22315-1488412800-1488499199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Business Planning: BF202
DESCRIPTION:Planning for Long-term Success \nWhether you intend to borrow money or not\, heading into a farm venture without a business plan is like setting out on a long-distance journey without a map. Arm yourself with a business plan and you will have a guide to aid your farm decision-making and demonstrate to yourself and your family that your ideas are feasible. This steady-paced course is designed to help you build your plan\, including developing financial statements. \n”The most valuable thing about this course was that it made me hash out and put on paper each section of my business plan. It is so easy to put business plan writing on the back burner\, and this course made it move to the top of my to-do list and allowed me to get all my ideas and financials into one organized document.” –Courtney S\, Paloma\, CA \nTarget Audience \nALL LEVELS – This course is geared for new farmers as well as those expanding or transitioning from one farm enterprise to another. Before enrolling in this course you should already know the type of farm you want\, some short-term and longer-term farm business goals\, and the geographic area or state where you intend to farm. You should have at least some first-hand experience with farming\, including personal research into the type of farm you will operate. \nNOTE: If you are new to farming or are still exploring ideas\, it may be helpful to take BF 101: Starting at Square One before enrolling in BF 202. \nCourse Objectives \nUpon completing this course\, you will have a full business plan in a format ready to be implemented on the farm. The business plan may be used to guide you in decision-making in the course of running the farm business. Additionally\, the business plan will be in a form ready to submit to a banker\, private investor or grantor\, in the event you are seeking outside funding. \nGraduates of BF 202 have obtained equipment and operating loans\, and mortgages\, for start-up and expanding farms. \nWebinars \nThe bulk of the course happens on your own time\, with discussions\, readings\, and assignments in MOODLE\, our virtual classroom. To add to the experience\, webinars will be woven into the online interface of the course to allow you to meet on a weekly basis to learn from outside presenters\, ask questions\, and collaborate with other participants and the instructor to address your farm issues in real time. If you miss one\, they are always recorded and posted for later viewing. Access details will be posted in MOODLE once you have registered and logged in. \nInstructors \nRebecca Schuelke-Staehr co-owns Cayuga Pumpkin Barn and has worked for Cornell Cooperative Extension and the NY Farm Viability Institute. \nSteve Hadcock is the Beginning Farmer and Market Development Educator for the Capital Area Agricultural and Horticultural Program for Cornell Cooperative Extension. \nDates \nMarch 2 – April 6\, with Webinars on Thursday evenings from 6:00 – 7:30pm EST \nCourse Outline \nWeek 1: Welcome and Introduction\nTopics covered: Introductions. Overview of our online “campus” (Moodle)\, course outline\, and business plan template. Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) farm analysis. Business plan cover page and farm supporting information statement. \nWeek 2: Mission and Goals\nTopics covered: Writing mission statement\, goal and vision statements. Farm business structure. Bank lender guest speaker. \nWeek 3: Organizational and Operational Plans\nTopics covered: Writing organizational and operational plans. Guest speaker on farm business structure\, defining job duties. \nWeek 4: Marketing Planning\nTopics covered: market channels\, volume\, pricing\, etc. Enterprise budgeting. Farmer guest speaker. \nWeek 5: Financial Statements\nTopics covered: balance sheet\, cash flow\, profit and loss\, business development plan. \nWeek 6: Financial Statements\nTopics covered: loans\, grants\, crowd-source funding. Farmer guest speaker. \nCost and Registration \nFee for this course is $250. Sign up a month or more in advance of the start date and receive $25 off. Sign up for three or more courses and received $50 off your total.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/business-planning-bf202/
LOCATION:Cornell University Small Farms Program\, Webinar
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170301T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170301T190000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170111T175932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T175932Z
UID:22026-1488391200-1488394800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Enrolling in SNAP - Is It the Right Move for You?
DESCRIPTION:USDA has continued funding through May 2017 to assist direct marketing farmers and farmers markets join the SNAP program by providing free equipment to qualified farmers and farmers markets. The National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs (NAFMNP) has created MarketLink\, an online solution to an expedited application process\, nationally negotiated rates for SNAP\, debit and credit; as well as state-of-the-art equipment\, an iPHone 6\, EMV card reader and blue-tooth connected printer. \nJoining the SNAP program involves a multiple application process that enrolls you as a SNAP retailer\, determines your eligibility for free equipment and then provides the service to accept SNAP\, debit and credit. \nThe Farmers Market Federation of NY will be holding webinars to help direct marketing farmers and market managers understand the MarketLink program and will schedule phone appointments with attendees to complete the application process. The presentations should take approximately 60 minutes for the presentation and question and answers. \nThe webinar is free to join and will help you understand the process and the value of adding SNAP to your farm or market. Register now to reserve your space on the date that best fits your schedule. \nTo register\, Click here for the registration information\, then click on the link for your choice of dates and complete the registration information. Once submitted you will receive a link to the webinar. Save that link! This is how you will access the live webinar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-enrolling-in-snap-is-it-the-right-move-for-you-4/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170301T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170301T203000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20161201T160437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170130T163433Z
UID:21725-1488387600-1488400200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: To Diversify or Not to Diversify? And How?
DESCRIPTION:Market fluctuation due to over saturation of farms\, unforeseen weather issues\, and changes in consumer demands all affect how farmers determine what to grow\, where to sell it\, and how to price their product. This workshop is for farmers who are interested in market diversification as a path to farm sustainability and profitability. We will use marketing channel assessment tools to project the potential outcomes. Come prepared as this class is interactive; we will look at real farm examples and work on your own farm situations. \nPresenter: Matt Leroux – Cornell Cooperative Extension \nThis is the sixth in our eight session Winter Workshop series\, Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm \n\n \n\n\n\nRegister for Workshop\n\n\nMarch 1\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDMarch 1\, 2017: non-LH Memeber $18.00 USD\n\n\nEnter name(s) of attendees:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nMapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm beginning January 2017. In order to draw a map of the future of your farm\, you need a solid foundation with which to review your past and assess your present. This workshop series will support farm owners and operators in decision making for realistic long-term financial\, operational\, marketing\, and personal goals. Examples in the workshops will be farm related\, but the skills and methodology will be relevant to all businesses. \nParticipation in the whole series is encouraged. You will be eligible for a one-on-one consultation by attending one Business Plan workshop. Attending three workshops gives you the eligibility for an additional one-on-one consultation related to the topic of any workshop being held. Dinner will be served at each session. The cost to attend the series is $90 for Local Hero members\, or $15 for each individual workshop. The non-member fee is $110 for the series\, or $18 for each individual workshop. Register below or contact Stevie Schafenacker at stevie@buylocalfood.org or (413) 665-7100 x27. If cost is a barrier to your participation\, please feel free to contact Stevie to discuss options as we want everyone to be able to get the training they need to effectively operate their business. Scholarships may be available. \nThe first half hour of each workshop will be for food and socializing. Workshops will begin promptly thereafter. \nFunding for CISA’s “The Crossroads: Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future” is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)\, Farm Service Agency under Federal Award Identification No. USDA-FA-MA-6-007\, USDA/National Institute of Food and Agriculture under award 2016-70017-25423\, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service through grant 16FMPPMA0002 and by individual contributors and Local Hero members. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/to-diversify-or-not-to-diversify-and-how/
LOCATION:Holyoke Community College Kittredge Center\, Room 303\, 303 Homestead Ave\, Holoyke\, MA\, 01040\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170301T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170301T140000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20161207T225544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161207T225544Z
UID:21779-1488357000-1488376800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Local Food Trade Shows
DESCRIPTION:The Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts (SBN) is offering their 6th Local Food Trade Shows. The 2016 Local Food Trade Shows are designed to facilitate connections and stimulate business relationships between producers and wholesale buyers of local food\, with a focus on specialty crop food products in Massachusetts. \nThis event is ideal for restaurants\, retailers and institutional buyers interested in trading with local food suppliers and who desire to buy more locally produced products from growers\, fishermen\, and value added producers from Massachusetts and New England. \nThe Local Specialty Crop Trade Show Presented by MDAR (MassGrown) \nExhibitors will include New England based farmers\, produce distributors and local specialty crop producers (products made with 50% or more specialty crops also qualify). Please view the USDA definition of specialty crops here. This Trade Show is funded by the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant\, sponsored by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. \nExhibition booths are free for specialty crop farmers and producers–>REGISTER \nLocal Food Trade Show \nThis trade show is open to all non-specialty crop food producers including meat and dairy farms\, fisheries\, baked goods and other added value producers. \nExhibition booths are $125.00–>REGISTER \n*$25 Discount for SBN Members \n\nThe Trade Shows will include workshops offering best practice topics around some of the most pressing barriers to specialty crop sales in Massachusetts. Depending on the interest\, we also plan to offer One-on-One consultation sessions with industry experts after lunch. \nAttendees & Buyers Registration Fee $30–>REGISTER \n*$10 Discount for SBN Members \n\nClick HERE for a list of 2016 Trade Show Exhibitors and Attendees! \nWho should attend? \nAny wholesale buyers\, who are interested in purchasing Massachusetts or New England-produced food items. These buyers can be supermarkets\, co-ops\, restaurants\, hotels\, resorts\, institutions\, schools\, food processors in search of ingredients\, distributors\, or anyone else interested in local purchasing options.*This event is intended for commercial buyers\, not individual consumers.* \n\n*Sponsorship Opportunities are available\, please e-mail maddie@sbnmass.org*
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/local-food-trade-shows/
LOCATION:Northeastern University\, 260 Huntington Avenue\, Boston\, MA\, 02115\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170301
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170302
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170213T205758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T193647Z
UID:22314-1488326400-1488412799@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Veggie Farming Pt. 2 (BF121)
DESCRIPTION:From Season-Long Care to Harvest \nThis course continues where BF120 ends and covers vegetable production from transplanting to harvest\, including information on in-season fertility\, integrated pest management\, weed control options\, harvesting strategies\, and tips for marketing your products. Be prepared to create an in-season fertility and pest/weed control plan as part of this course. \nWeekly homework will focus on preparing you to make good decisions in the coming growing season. (Note: You don’t need to take BF 120 to enroll in this course) \nFrom this course I collected a huge document filled with webinar notes\, resources\, and links that I will continue to use well past the end of the course.” –June C\, Greenfield\, MA \nTarget Audience \nBEGINNING to INTERMEDIATE: This course is for aspiring farmers and those with at least one growing season of vegetable farming experience. You should already have a basic understanding of how to select crops\, manage bed prep\, seeding\, and transplanting. Because systems vary so much from region to region\, this course targets farmers in the Northeastern United States. Farmers outside the region are welcome to register\, but should do so knowing that some of the information presented may not be appropriate for their region \nLearning Objectives \nBy the end of this course\, you will be able to \nMake good decisions about fertility management for your specific crops.\nUnderstand options available for weed\, pest\, and disease control.\nBe able to identify problem weeds\, pests and diseases on your farm.\nLearn successful harvesting and marketing strategies. \nWebinars \nThe bulk of the course happens on your own time\, with discussions\, readings\, and assignments in MOODLE\, our virtual classroom. To add to the experience\, webinars will be woven into the online interface of the course to allow you to meet on a weekly basis to learn from outside presenters and ask questions to address your farm issues in real time. If you miss one\, they are always recorded and posted for later viewing. Access details will be posted in MOODLE once you have registered and logged in. \nInstructors \nAmy Ivy is a regional production specialist for the Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Program of Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE). \nDarcy Telenko is a regional vegetable specialist with the Cornell Vegetable Program\, and is based at the CCE Erie County\, NY office. \nDates \nMarch 1 – 29\, with Webinars on Wednesdays from 7 – 8:30pm \nCourse Outline \nWeek 1: Transplant care\, and using soil tests and vegetable guidelines to tailor your fertility program\nWeek 2: Weed control options (organic and conventional) for the small farm\nWeek 3: Integrated pest management: Insect identification and control\nWeek 4: Integrated pest management: Disease identification and control\nWeek 5: Harvesting and post-harvest handling strategies \nCost and Registration \nFee for this course is $250. Sign up a month or more in advance of the start date and receive $25 off. Sign up for three or more courses and received $50 off your total.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/veggie-farming-pt-2-bf121/
LOCATION:Cornell University Small Farms Program\, Webinar
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170301
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170302
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170213T205452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T193637Z
UID:22313-1488326400-1488412799@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Effective Marketing for the Busy Farmer: BF201
DESCRIPTION:Sell Smarter\, Not Harder\n\nMost of us go into farming with the thought of making some – or all – of our\nlivelihood through the sale of what we make or grow. As you grow your operation to provide more of your family’s income\, having a carefully planned marketing strategy becomes more critical. \nCompletion of this online course will enable you to better understand how to price your products\, position yourself in the “buy local”\, direct sales or wholesale marketplace\, and understand low-cost “guerrilla” marketing tactics to get the best bang for your buck and make your farm operation financially sustainable. If you complete the activities in this course\, you will possess a marketing plan to guide decisions for which market channels to enter\, branding and crisis management plans and pricing guidelines for your farm products. \nTarget Audience\nINTERMEDIATE to ADVANCED – New farmers with 1-3 years of farm management experience any farmers who have explored the basics of marketing and are ready to develop a formal marketing strategy.   \nCourse Objectives\nThis course will help you: \n\nLink your farm’s mission and vision to your commercial goals and marketing strategy\nUnderstand the key elements of a solid marketing plan\nDefine who your target customers are and how to most effectively reach them\nDevelop and implement effective marketing strategies\nAssign various pricing strategies depending on the product and market\nUnderstand what a “brand” is and how to relate it back to your marketing activities\nCreate a marketing plan through weekly input from the course instructors\n\nWebinars\nThe bulk of the course happens on your own time\, with discussions\, readings\, and assignments in MOODLE\, our virtual classroom. To add to the experience\, webinars will be woven into the online interface of the course to allow you to meet on a weekly basis to learn from outside presenters\, ask questions\, and collaborate with other participants and the instructor to address your farm issues in real time. If you miss one\, they are always recorded and posted for later viewing. Access details will be posted in MOODLE once you have registered and logged in.  \nInstructors\nLaura Biasillo is an Agricultural Economic Development Educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County\, NY.\nMarie Anselm is an Agricultural Economic Development Educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County\, NY. \nDates\nMarch 1 – April 5\, 2017 with webinars each Wednesday evening from 6:00-7:30pm Eastern time.  \n \nCourse Outline\nWeek 1: Strategic Marketing: Identifying the “best” market channel for your farm \nTopics Covered: Options for marketing farm products\, evaluating wholesale versus retail outlets\, using the Market Channel Assessment tool.. \nWeek 2: Customer Identification\nTopics Covered: Defining current and potential customers\, “buy local” customers and what motivates them\, identifying trends and taking advantage of them. \nWeek 3: Marketing Strategy\, Part 1: Overview & Customer Communication \nTopics Covered: Defining a marketing strategy\, methods of communication with customers\, methods to effectively reach customers and increase sales. \nWeek 4: Expenses\, Budgets and Pricing \nTopics Covered: Expenses (real and perceived)\, costs versus pricing\, components of a marketing budget (as part of a larger budget)\, pricing (what to include and how to allocate costs). \nWeek 5: Marketing Strategy\, Part 2: Branding & Farm Image \nTopics covered: What is branding? Creating and maintaining a farm image\, responding to crisis and change. \nWeek 6: Collaborative/Cooperative Marketing \nTopics covered: What is marketing and isn’t marketing? Differences between collaborative and cooperative marketing\, formal versus informal arrangements. \nCost and Registration\nFee for this course is $250. Sign up a month or more in advance of the start date and receive $25 off. Sign up for three or more courses and received $50 off your total.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/effective-marketing-for-the-busy-farmer-bf201/
LOCATION:Cornell University Small Farms Program\, Webinar
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170301
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170302
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170213T204852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T193613Z
UID:22312-1488326400-1488412799@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Season Extension with High Tunnels: BF220
DESCRIPTION:Know Before You Grow \nAdding weeks to either end of your growing season can mean attaining a premium for having products available well before (or long after) other local growers. But the structures that make this possible–(unheated plastic-covered “high tunnels” or “hoop houses”) can cost a lot of money\, and they bring special management considerations that need to be understood in order to be profitable additions to your farm. \nTarget Audience: \nINTERMEDIATE to ADVANCED: This course is meant for farmers who already have some experience successfully growing vegetables outdoors and are exploring high tunnels as a way to expand the season or improve plant quality. Information will be focused on using high tunnels in colder climates (US Climate Zones 4-6)\, but can be adapted to other growing regions. \nCourse Objectives: \nBy the end of this course growers will have the knowledge to do the following: \nComplete a basic site assessment and know when to bring in experts to discuss site limitations\nMake decisions to improve or maintain their soil health and fertility in the tunnel\nSelect an appropriate high tunnel structure for their site\, climate\, and production needs\nSelect and grow appropriate cold and/or warm season crops for the tunnel\nEmploy pest control and trouble-shooting strategies for high tunnels\nDecide if high tunnels make economic\, environmental\, and social sense on the farm \nWebinars: \nThe bulk of the course happens on your own time\, with discussions\, readings\, and assignments in MOODLE\, our virtual classroom. To add to the experience\, webinars will be woven into the online interface of the course to allow you to meet on a weekly basis to learn from outside presenters\, ask questions\, and collaborate with other participants and the instructor to address your farm issues in real time. If you miss one\, they are always recorded and posted for later viewing. Access details will be posted in MOODLE once you have registered and logged in. \nInstructors: \nJud Reid\, regional vegetable specialist with the CCE Cornell Vegetable Program. \nCrystal Stewart\, regional vegetable specialist with the CCE Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Program. \n\n:Dates \nMarch 1 – April 3\, 2017\, with webinars each Wednesday from 6:30 – 8:00pm Eastern time. \n\nCourse Outline: \nWeek One: Soil testing and site assessment\nTopics covered: Assessing a good site for high tunnels\, takeing a soil sample and interpreting soil test results\, creating a nutrient management plan that emphasizes long-term soil health and crop quality. \nWeek Two: Selecting an appropriate structure\nTopics covered: Key considerations in tunnel selection including durability\, adaptability\, movability. \nWeek Three: Warm season crops\nTopics covered: Growing tropical-origin plants like tomatoes and cucumbers\, variety selection\, planting best-practices\, precise use of cultural practices including pruning and trellising. \nWeek Four: Cold season crops\nTopics covered: Growing hearty crops through the winter\, common varieties\, planting best practices\, and harvesting considerations. \nWeek Five: Pest Control and Trouble Shooting\nTopics covered: Redefine pest control strategies for high tunnels\, common challenges\, preventing problems before they occur. \nWeek Six: Pulling it all together\nTopics covered: Is high tunnel growing a good fit for your farm? Looking at the whole picture of economic\, environmental\, and social considerations\, we will help growers ask this question of their operations. \nCost and Registration: \nFee for this course is $250. Sign up a month or more in advance of the start date and receive $25 off. Sign up for three or more courses and received $50 off your total.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/season-extension-with-high-tunnels-bf220/
LOCATION:Cornell University Small Farms Program\, Webinar
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170228T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170228T210000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20160822T202545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160822T202713Z
UID:20704-1488304800-1488315600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Course: Exploring The Small Farm Dream
DESCRIPTION:Are you considering starting an agricultural enterprise in Massachusetts? The “Explorer” courses are intended for those considering farming as a (small) business. Its purpose is to help pre-venture\, aspiring farmers learn what it will take to start and manage their own agricultural enterprise. Explorer makes use of four\, guided group sessions and a farmer panel of those who have already done what you are contemplating. It is based on an acclaimed workbook developed in partnership with NESFI and presented by an instructor experienced in starting farm businesses. Explorer was created to help you articulate the clear vision and goals you will need to guide an agricultural business. \nProposed Dates/Location*: February – March 2017 – Five Tuesday evenings from 6:00 – 9:00PM \nFebruary 28\, March 7\, March 14\, March 21 and March 28\, 2017 \n@ Bristol Community College Fall River campus* \n(*Dates & location are tentative based on interest.  7 more students need to register by September 15 in order to hold this course in the proposed location.) \nComplete and send in an application form as soon as possible: www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/agr/land-use/agricultural-business-training-program-abtp.html
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/course-exploring-the-small-farm-dream/
LOCATION:Bristol Community College – Fall River\, 777 Elsbree Street\, Fall River\, MA\, 02720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170227T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170227T203000
DTSTAMP:20260512T112110
CREATED:20170213T204504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T193559Z
UID:22309-1488222000-1488227400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Taking Care of Business: BF 103
DESCRIPTION:TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS (BF 103) \nBf103BusinessUnderstanding the Business\, Tax\, and Regulatory Implications of Your Farm\nThis course helps aspiring and beginning farmers assess and manage a variety of risks that a farmer will face as they operate their enterprise. Throughout the six-week period\, topics essential for operating a viable farm business will be discussed\, including insurance coverage\, types of business structures\, and tax information. \nTarget Audience: \nBEGINNER – This is an intro-level course supports aspiring and beginning farmers seeking to learn about the commercial\, legal and tax implications of farming. Farmers outside NYS can take the course\, but should know that extra legwork will be required on the part of the farmer to determine the parallel agencies and regulations that apply in their state. \n“All of the weekly presentations were so valuable. After every session I spent several hours considering what I had heard and how I was operating–or not operating–accordingly.” –Brenna B\, Red Hook\, NY \n\nCourse Objectives \nAt the completion of this course\, you will know how to: \nDescribe five risks that farmers need to regularly address\nComprehend the legal liabilities of operating a farm and selling agricultural products\nFind the resources necessary to better understand income and sales tax regulations for operating a farm.\nEvaluate various forms of business ownership and determine which will be best for you at this time\nIdentify rules and regulations (for marketing\, food safety\, facilities\, etc) that are pertinent to the type of agricultural enterprise you plan to operate\nUse insurance as a risk management tool \nWebinars: \nThe bulk of the course happens on your own time\, with discussions\, readings\, and assignments in MOODLE\, our virtual classroom. To add to the experience\, webinars will be woven into the online interface of the course to allow you to meet on a weekly basis to learn from presenters and ask questions in real time. If you miss one\, they are always recorded and posted for later viewing. \nInstructors \nStephen Hadcock\, Extension Educator with Capital Area Agricultural and Horticultural Program\, NY \nLynn Bliven\, Extension Educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County\, NY. \n\nDates: \nMonday February 27 – April 3\, 2017 with webinars on Monday evenings from 7:00 – 8:30pm Eastern time. \n\nCourse Outline: \nWeek 1: Course Introduction\nTopics covered: Navigating in Moodle (our online classroom)\, course expectations\, student introductions\, risks commonly associated with running a farm business \nWeek 2: How Should I Organize the Business?\nTopics covered: Common business structures\, alternative options\, developing and refining a mission & vision \nWeek 3: Income and Sales Tax\nTopics covered: Relevant IRS law\, Farmers Tax Guide\, NY Tax Law \nWeek 4: What is the NYS Agricultural District Law?\nTopics covered: Zoning\, ag districts\, property tax exemptions for farmers \nWeek 5: Permits and Regulations\nTopics covered: Online permit assistance\, sales tax\, Dept. of Ag & Markets \nWeek 6: Record Keeping and Wrap Up\nTopics covered: Which records to keep\, options and resources\, final Q&A \n\nCost and Registration: \nFee for this course is $250. Sign up a month or more in advance of the start date and receive $25 off. Sign up for three or more courses and received $50 off your total.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/taking-care-of-business-bf-103/
LOCATION:Cornell University Small Farms Program\, Webinar
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR