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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170128T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170128T170000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161228T170144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161228T170217Z
UID:21905-1485592200-1485622800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Deepening Roots\, Growing Success Business Training - Saturday Intensive
DESCRIPTION:The Carrot Project is excited to announce Deepening Roots\, Growing Success\, a business training program for current or aspiring urban farmers and locally-sourced food processing business operators. Training is open to ALL\, not just Boston residents. \nThe training program will kick off with a Saturday Intensive Crash Introduction to the world of growing\, sourcing\, and processing local foods. Local experts and business leaders will present on panel discussions to help introduce you to the local food landscape. Then\, 8 Monday evening sessions will provide participants with in-depth business expertise to help launch and develop their business models\, also presented by local experts and business leaders. \nWhen: \n\nJanuary 28\, 2017 from 8:30am-5:00pm: Saturday Intensive Crash Introduction\nJanuary 30 – March 20\, 2017 from 6:00pm-9:00pm: 8 Monday Evening Sessions\n\nWhere: \n\nHibernian Hall Ballroom and Conference Room\, 184 Dudley Street\, Roxbury\, MA\n\nCost: \n\n$50 for all 9 sessions\, including Saturday Intensive OR \n\n\n$10 for the Saturday Intensive session ONLY OR \n\n\n$40 for 8 Monday Evening Training Sessions\n\nMore Information and Full Program \nREGISTER HERE!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/deepening-roots-growing-success-business-training-saturday-intensive/
LOCATION:Hibernian Hall Ballroom and Conference Room\, 184 Dudley Street\, Roxbury\, MA\, 02119\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170125T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170125T203000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161201T153611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161221T231145Z
UID:21720-1485363600-1485376200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: The Farm Business Plan — A Narrative for Your Values\, Goals\, and Success
DESCRIPTION:Define where you really want to be in 3-5 years. Organize your thoughts to produce the farm life and business you want. Give direction and confidence in moving forward. The business plan is your farm’s goals and values through a story of investments\, operations\, finances\, and marketing channels. In this workshop we will give you the tools to build that narrative by identifying the critical elements of a plan for operational\, financial\, and/or marketing purposes. We will also address how to turn your business plan into an action plan. For farmers who may have some pieces to the puzzle but do not currently have a formal plan. Attending this workshop makes you eligible for one-on-one consultations for business plan support. \nPresenter: Bill Bean of Green Planning and Coaching and Joanie Walker of Walker Farm at Whortleberry Hill \n\n \n\n\n\nRegister for Workshop\n\n\nJanuary 25\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDJanuary 25\, 2017: non-LH Memeber $18.00 USDWinter Workshop series- LH member $90.00 USDWinter Workshop series- non-LH member $110.00 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/the-farm-business-plan-a-narrative-for-your-values-goals-and-success/
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;VALUE=DATE:20170111
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170112
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161121T210129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161121T210129Z
UID:21661-1484092800-1484179199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:'The Farmer's Edge' Online Business Course
DESCRIPTION:Julia Shanks Food Consulting offering a new program for beginning and experienced farmers… The Farmer’s Edge. This is a year-long course designed to give farmers the skills and tools needed to cultivate financially sustainable businesses. Whether you struggle to understand the economics of your business or just want to increase your farm’s profitability\, this course is for you! \nGroup sessions begin in January (second Wednesday of the month) and meet on-line for 2 hours each month. The first hour is devoted to a specific business topic\, such as QuickBooks or Cash Flow Budgeting. The second hour is an open discussion for participants to ask specific questions about their businesses. This “consulting collective” combines the benefits of a business workshop and one-on-one technical assistance\, with the added value of peer-learning. \nAt the end of the year participants will have: \n\nComprehensive bookkeeping systems designed to help them manage your business\nA cash flow budget and the tools to make sure they stay on track\nSystems for understanding all the costs in their business\nA strategy for how to grow their business profitability in the coming years\nFinancial analysis to decide where to focus their business\n\nTopics include: \n\nQuickBooks set-up and maintenance\nSystems for tracking revenue and expenses (so you can truly understand the profitability of all your products)\nManaging Cash Flow\nAnalyzing profitability and evaluating ways to improve it.\nCreating cash flow budget for coming years.\nEvaluating growth and business investment opportunities.\n\nThis “consulting collective” combines the benefits of a business workshop and one-on-one technical assistance\, with the added value of peer-learning: \n\nGet the business support you need\, when you need it\, as challenges arise.\nCut travel costs and save time by meeting online.\nSessions are recorded\, so you can catch-up and re-listen later.\nLearn from your peers AND get one-on-one consulting.\n\nSpace is limited; reserve your spot now! \nThe group meets on the second Wednesday of each month.  There will be two sessions: in the morning (10am – 12n ET) and afternoon (3pm – 5pm ET).  During peak growing season\, sessions may be shorter to accommodate farmer schedules.  Extra sessions will be added in November and December as needed to ensure all participants get the value and tools they need. \nRegister before December 15\, 2016 and receive $100 off the year-long membership price. Just enter in the discount code: TFE-Early\nTentative Schedule of Topics \n(subject to change based on participants’ needs) \nJanuary 11\, 2017 (Wednesday): Business Basics and Accounting Overview \nFebruary 8\, 2017 (Wednesday): Getting Started in QuickBooks \nMarch 7\, 2017 (Tuesday): QuickBooks Part 2\, Review day to day transactions\, and systems for using QB to manage cash. Creating a budget \nApril 12\, 2017 (Wednesday): Crop Profitability: Tracking expenses to better understand the cost of production \nMay 10\, 2017 (Wednesday): Sales and Inventory: Systems for tracking sales and understanding which sales channels are most profitable \nJune 14\, 2017 (Wednesday): Managing Cash in Lean Times \nJuly 12\, 2017 (Wednesday): Tools to streamline bookkeeping systems \nAugust 9\, 2017 (Wednesday) : Comparing Sales Projections to Actuals\, are you meeting your goals? \nSeptember 13\, 2017 (Wednesday): How to Read Financial Statements \nOctober 11\, 2017 (Wednesday): Channel and Crop Profitability Analysis \nNovember 8\, 2017 (Wednesday): Preparing for loans: deciding if a loan makes sense\, how much you can afford and preparing the paperwork \nDecember 13\, 2017 (Wednesday): Creating Cash Flow Projections for the coming year \nFind more information and register here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/the-farmers-edge-online-business-course/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170110
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170301
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160929T144201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160929T144201Z
UID:21063-1484006400-1488326399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Winter Vegetable School
DESCRIPTION:Attention Growers! Leave winter school ready for a Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP) audit and the peace of mind that you are prepared to handle the requirements of: the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)\, EPA Worker Protection Standards (WPS)\, Nutrient Management Regulations\, and changes in Employment Law.  Get up to date on research and IPM practices important to vegetable growers and gain a competitive advantage in a heavily regulated market.  Each farm will get detailed support in developing food safety and nutrient management plans\, training employees in WPS\, developing standard operating procedures compliant with regulations\, and preparing an employee handbook and a whole farm IPM plan. This course is designed for farm owners\, managers and employees.\nClick here for more information. \nSessions:\nTuesday\, January 10\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\n\nTuesday\, January 17\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, January 24\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, January 31\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 7\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 14\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 21\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 28\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/winter-vegetable-school/
LOCATION:TBD
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170109
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170112
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160929T143943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160929T143943Z
UID:21062-1483920000-1484179199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:FSPCA Preventive Controls for Human Food Certification Training
DESCRIPTION:The ​Current ​Good ​Manufacturing ​Practice\, ​Hazard ​Analysis\, ​and ​ Risk-based ​Preventive ​Controls ​for ​Human ​Food ​FDA ​regulation ​is  ​intended ​to ​ensure ​safe ​manufacturing/processing\, ​packing ​and ​ holding ​of ​food ​products ​for ​human ​consumption ​in ​the ​United ​ States. ​The ​regulation ​requires ​that ​certain ​activities ​must ​be  ​completed ​by ​a ​“preventive ​controls ​qualified ​individual” ​who ​ has ​“successfully ​completed ​training ​in ​the ​development ​and ​ application ​of ​risk-based ​preventive ​controls.” ​This ​course ​ developed ​by ​the ​FSPCA ​is ​the ​“standardized ​curriculum” ​ recognized ​by ​FDA; ​successfully ​completing ​this ​course ​is ​one ​ way ​to ​meet ​the ​requirements ​for ​a ​“preventive ​controls ​ qualified ​individual.” ​To ​complete ​the ​course\, ​a ​participant ​ must ​be ​present ​for ​the ​entire ​workshop ​and ​participate ​in ​ the ​exercises.\nClick here to register!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/fspca-preventive-controls-for-human-food-certification-training/
LOCATION:UMass Amherst\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161230T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161230T210000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161228T173641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161228T173641Z
UID:21907-1483120800-1483131600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Deepening Roots\, Growing Success Business Training - First Monday Evening Session
DESCRIPTION:The Carrot Project is excited to announce Deepening Roots\, Growing Success\, a business training program for current or aspiring urban farmers and locally-sourced food processing business operators. Training is open to ALL\, not just Boston residents. \nThe training program will kick off with a Saturday Intensive Crash Introduction to the world of growing\, sourcing\, and processing local foods. Local experts and business leaders will present on panel discussions to help introduce you to the local food landscape. Then\, 8 Monday evening sessions will provide participants with in-depth business expertise to help launch and develop their business models\, also presented by local experts and business leaders. \nWhen: \n\nJanuary 28\, 2017 from 8:30am-5:00pm: Saturday Intensive Crash Introduction\nJanuary 30 – March 20\, 2017 from 6:00pm-9:00pm: 8 Monday Evening Sessions\n\nWhere: \n\nHibernian Hall Ballroom and Conference Room\, 184 Dudley Street\, Roxbury\, MA\n\nCost: \n\n$50 for all 9 sessions\, including Saturday Intensive OR \n\n\n$10 for the Saturday Intensive session ONLY OR \n\n\n$40 for 8 Monday Evening Training Sessions\n\nMore Information and Full Program \nREGISTER HERE!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/deepening-roots-growing-success-business-training-first-monday-evening-session/
LOCATION:Hibernian Hall Ballroom and Conference Room\, 184 Dudley Street\, Roxbury\, MA\, 02119\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161214T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161214T200000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161201T161549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161207T165933Z
UID:21729-1481736600-1481745600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Disaster Assistance for Drought & Other Losses
DESCRIPTION:Join us to learn about the financial assistance available to help farms cope with 2016 losses and plan for the future. This workshop will discuss the direct financial compensation for losses available through USDA-FSA disaster assistance programs; funding available from USDA-NRCS and MDAR; new insurance options like Whole Farm Revenue Protection; and low-interest loan programs. Representatives from FSA\, UMass Extension\, and Signal Rock AG Insurance will be on hand to discuss these programs and to meet one-one-one with growers seeking personal advice. Dinner will be served. Cost is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. RSVP to Kristen at 413-665-7100 or kristen@buylocalfood.org by December 12th and payment can be submitted at the links below. \n\n\n \n\n\nRegister for Workshop\n\n\nDecember 14\, 2016: LH Member $10.00 USDDecember 14\, 2016: non-LH Memeber $15.00 USD \n\n\nEnter name(s) of attendees:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCISA is an equal opportunity provider. This workshop is supported in part by the U.S. Department of Agriculture\, Farm Service Agency\, under Federal Award Identification No. FAMA-6-007\, and by individual contributors and Local Hero members.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/disaster-assistance-for-drought-other-losses/
LOCATION:CISA Office\, 1 Sugarloaf Street\, South Deerfield\, MA\, 01373\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161208T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161208T200000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161114T152945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161114T152945Z
UID:21567-1481220000-1481227200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Municipal Farmland Leasing and Protection
DESCRIPTION:Leasing municipally owned land to farmers can be a great way to add to your town’s revenues while helping to keep farms in farming. In our December Municipal Official Continuing Education Series\, we present an excellent opportunity to learn the particulars of leasing and/or protecting town-owned land\, especially farmland. Speakers include Land for Good’s Senior Program Director and Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust’s Land Conservation Specialist. Please note: any of the lessons learned in this workshop can also be applied to land other than farmland. \nWho should attend? Town Administrators\, Planning Boards\, Select Boards\, Agricultural Commissions\, Conservation Commissions\, Open Space Committees and Community Preservation Committees \nClick here for more information   RSVP by clicking here
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-municipal-farmland-leasing-and-protection/
LOCATION:John W. Olver Transit Center\, Allen Meeting Room\, 12 Olive St\, Greenfield\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161207
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161210
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161130T152428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161130T152428Z
UID:21704-1481068800-1481327999@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Young Farmers Conference
DESCRIPTION:Every December\, hundreds of beginning farmers from across the United States gather at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills\, New York to learn from agricultural luminaries\, peers\, and advocacy organizations at the Young Farmers Conference. On December 7-9\, 2016\, Stone Barns Center will host the 9th annual Young Farmers Conference\, providing participants with access to inspiring keynotes and unique workshops that address soil science\, technical skills\, agricultural policy\, farm business management\, conservation and more. \nClick here to view the 2016 Young Farmers Conference Schedule \n\nLIVESTREAM\nThese special workshops will be streamed live on this page on December 7 and 8 (all times are EST): \nWednesday December 7\n11:00am: Farms as Agents of Social Change\n2:00pm:  Fitting Green Manure Cover Crops into Crop Rotation\n3:45pm:  Understanding Customer Behavior at Farmers Markets \nThursday December 8\n9:15am: Acta Non-Verba: Youth Urban Farm Project\n11:00am: Carbon Farming\n2:00pm: Panel: Grassfed Grazing\n3:45pm: Land Access for Urban Farmers \nLast year’s livestreamed workshops:\nCrop Rotation\nGrowing and Marketing Cut Flowers\nKnow Your Supplier\nFarm Mechanization Tools for Increased Efficiency\nSwine Nutrition and Management
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/young-farmers-conference/
LOCATION:Stone Barns Center\, Pocantico Hills\, NY\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161207
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161208
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161121T175240Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161121T175240Z
UID:21641-1481068800-1481155199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Registration Deadline: NOFA/Mass Beginning Farmer Mentorship Program
DESCRIPTION:NOFA/Mass is seeking beginning farmers with some experience who are in the beginning stages of\, or preparing to take on\, farm ownership or a leadership position\, and those interested in deepening their farming knowledge. Applicants should have clear learning goals and the motivation to work towards meeting those goals by utilizing the expertise of a mentor and committing to educational opportunities and group collaboration. \nBased on feedback from mentees and mentors\, and research of other successful farm mentorship programs\, we have made some changes to our program that will increase its effectiveness and provide improved educational support to our participants. \nProgram Includes:   \n\n12 month mentorship\nAdmission to NOFA/Mass Winter Conference and NOFA Summer Conference\nStipends to NOFA/Mass Advanced Grower and On Farm Workshops\nProgram Coordinator support\nTwo group meetings to support the structuring and success of individual mentorships and build relationships between program participants\n\nProgram Cost: $200\, NOFA/Mass Membership required. \nTo become a NOFA/Mass member and see all the benefits that membership offers\, visit www.nofamass.org/membership. \nClick here to read the full program description and access the application. \nPlease contact our Beginning Farmer Program Coordinator\, Brittany Overshiner\, with inquiries: brittany@nofamass.org. \nWe are also seeking mentors interested in participating in the program.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/registration-deadline-nofamass-beginning-farmer-mentorship-program/
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161204T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161204T160000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160518T163226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160518T163226Z
UID:19370-1480856400-1480867200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Assessing Pasture Soil Fertility and Forage Quality
DESCRIPTION:The health of ruminant animals is directly connected to the health of the pastures on which they graze and the supplemental hay they eat. But how do you know whether you’re pastures are healthy? And how can you tell whether the hay that you’re buying is of high quality? In this workshop\, organic grass-based cattle farmer Matt Koziol will teach us how to “read” our pastures and the quality of our feed hay. Matt will walk us through how to take\, interpret\, and implement pasture soil tests to ensure we are making wise economic and ecological choices for our pastures. He’ll cover a variety of pasture improvement strategies and discuss how different organic amendments can be used to fortify the pasture biology. \nWe’ll also interpret several different hay test results and view different samples of various hay types and qualities. You’ll walk away from this workshop confident in making better decisions for your pastures and your animals. \nThere will also be time to discuss other aspects of running a 100% grass-fed beef farm. \nAbout the instructor: \nMatthew Koziol the farmer at Clover Spring Farm\, where he raises 150 high quality Devon and Devon/Angus cattle. All of his animals are 100% organic and grass-fed. Read more about Clover Springs Farm here. \nOther Info: \nThis workshop is part of our Grass-Fed Cattle: Connecting Soil\, Animal\, and Pasture Health series. Check out the other upcoming workshops in this series: \n\nHolistic Cattle Health and Handling\nPasture Management and Rotational Grazing\n\nPre-registration for this workshop is recommended.  For more information contact Dan Bensonoff\, education events organizer\, at dan@nofamass.org or 860-716-5122. \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-assessing-pasture-soil-fertility-and-forage-quality/
LOCATION:Clover Springs Farm\, 234 Ragged Hill Road\, West Brookfield\, MA\, 01585\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161204
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161207
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161031T200816Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161031T202207Z
UID:21397-1480809600-1481068799@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:6th Annual Soil & Nutrition Conference
DESCRIPTION:Nature As Solution: Cultivating synergy to put nutrition and flavor back on the table \nJoin us for this one-of-a-kind gathering of farmers\, agronomists\, researchers\, doctors\, nutritionists\, and health-conscious consumers. \nFeaturing over 27 speakers\, including: Joel Salatin (keynote speaker)\, Mark Fulford\, Vail Dixon\, John Kempf\, Guido Mase\, Jean-Martin Fortier\, Lane Selman\, John Navasio\, Kathleen DiChiara\, Julie Rawson and Jack Kittredge. \nThe Soil & Nutrition Conference brings together the collective knowledge of the food movement from the perspectives of successful farmers\, leading researchers\, healthcare practitioners\, and pioneers of food quality to delve deeper into the connections and importance of soil and nutrition.  Join us to explore how the intersection of the farm and human ecosystems hold the key to environmental sustainability\, quality food\, and overall well-being. \nTopics Include: \n\nApplications of biological (ecological) management\, from garden to wholesale scale\nImproving public health through agriculture\, education and local capacity building\nEffectively using nutrition to mitigate disease across the landscape\nRegenerating ecological systems to provide environmental stability and weather climate change\nFlavor as a focal point in the food quality conversation\nImplementation and development of techniques for grower success including seed establishment\, emergence and in-season monitoring solutions\nGrowing and marketing your farm business with an eye to quality\n\nCost: $225 general admission and $200 for BFA members. Learn more and register at bionutrient.org/snc
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/6th-annual-soil-nutrition-conference/
LOCATION:Kripalu Center\, 57 Interlaken Road\, Stockbridge\, MA\, 01262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161203T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161203T160000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161130T151340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161130T151340Z
UID:21701-1480755600-1480780800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:New England Vegetable & Berry Growers Winter Meeting
DESCRIPTION:FIVE HUNDRED and NINETY-SECOND MEETING\nNew England Vegetable and Berry Growers’ Association and New England Cooperative Extension present an ALL DAY MEETING Saturday\, December 3\, 2016 Holiday Inn Portsmouth\n300 Woodbury Ave\, Portsmouth\, NH 03801 \nRegistration: There is a $20.00 Registration Fee. This fee is waived for members of NEV&BGA\nLunch buffet is an additional $20\nTo register: CLICK HERE or contact Lisa McKeag at 917-573-5558 or secretary@nevbga.org by  **November 28** \n\nWelcome – Lisa McKeag\, NEVBGA Secretary-Treasurer\nWhat’s New with Crop Insurance? – Tom Smiarowski and Paul Russell\, UMass Extension Risk Management/Crop Insurance Education Program\nPumpkin and Butternut Varieties Evaluation – Dr. Rebecca Brown\, Associate Professor\, Plant Sciences\, University of Rhode Island\nWildlife Services: Protecting Agriculture and Livestock from Wildlife – David Allaben\, NH/VT State Director USDA\, APHIS\, Wildlife Services; Agriculture Damage Reimbursement Program for Deer\, Bear\, & Moose – NHFG\, Robert Calvert\, Wildlife Biologist\nLunch buffet\, $20. To reserve a lunch\, please contact the Secretary\, Lisa McKeag at (917) 573-5558 or secretary@nevbga.org by  **November 28**. If you order lunch and cannot attend\, please call to cancel. We will have to bill you for unpaid meals.\nNEVGBA Announcements – New England Vegetable and Berry Growers Officers\nNutrition and Nutrient Management Recordkeeping for Small Fruit – Mary Concklin\, Visiting Associate Extension Educator\, Fruit Production & IPM UConn Extension\n2016 Weather\, Insect & Disease Pest Issues in Fruits & Vegetables – George Hamilton\, Extension Field Specialist\, UNH Cooperative Extension\nManaging Irrigation during Drought – Trevor Hardy\, Brookdale Fruit Farm Inc. Irrigation and Row Crop Supplies\nAdjourn\n\nFour pesticide recertification credits have been approved for this meeting. Commercial members are welcome to put up table-top displays.\nCo-sponsored by the UMass Extension Risk Management/Crop Insurance Education Program
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/new-england-vegetable-berry-growers-winter-meeting/
LOCATION:Holiday Inn – Portsmouth\, 300 Woodbury Avenue\, Portsmouth\, NH\, 03801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161201T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161201T170000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161123T145636Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161123T145636Z
UID:21675-1480582800-1480611600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:SNAP Sign-Up Day for Farmers and Farmers Market Managers
DESCRIPTION:A drop-in information session where you can get your farm\, farm stand or farmers’ market authorized for SNAP (formerly food stamps) and receive your USDA FNS Number the very same day! Drop in any time between 9am and 5pm. \nHere you can: \n\nGet your farm\, farm stand or farmers’ market authorized for SNAP (formerly food stamps) and receive you FNS Number the very same day! USDA staff will be on site to walk you through the process and assist with your application.\nLearn about other resources available.\n\nIf you intend on getting an FNS (SNAP) number\, please bring copies of the following documents which will be attached to your application: \n\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.\n\n For non-profit 501(c)(3) Only \nFarmers Markets operated/sponsored by a non-profit are the ONLY applicants that are not required to submit verification of Social Security number for corporate officers/board members. \n Documentation Required: \n\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.\n\nFor Government Owned/Operated Farmers Markets Only \nDocumentation Required: \n\nCopy of the City/Town IRS EIN/TIN Tax Exempt Letter.\nCity/Town Official must sign the Application Certification Page.\n\nNo personal information is required or needed
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/snap-sign-up-day-for-farmers-and-farmers-market-managers-2/
LOCATION:Boston Marriot Peabody\, 8 Centennial Drive\, Peabody\, MA\, 01960\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161120T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161120T150000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161103T135336Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161103T135336Z
UID:21466-1479639600-1479654000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Shelburne Falls Autumn Farmers' Market
DESCRIPTION:Every year\, the Shelburne Falls Farmers Market hosts a special Autumn market event.  This year\, the market will be held on the weekend before Thanksgiving. Sunday\, November 20th at the Buckland Shelburne Elementary School\, on Mechanic Street. \nIt is a great time to stock up for the holidays.  You will find local vegetables\, cheeses\, meats\, gifts and crafts being sold at the Autumn Market\, not to mention an array of prepared food\, body-workers and musicians. \nIf you are interested in vending at this year’s Autumn Market\, please email us at shelburnfallsfarmersmarket@gmail.com and fill out our 2016 Autumn Market vendor form.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/shelburne-falls-autumn-farmers-market/
LOCATION:Buckland Shelburne Elementary school\, 75 Mechanic St\, Shelburne Falls\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161117T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161117T130000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161102T151240Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161102T151240Z
UID:21436-1479371400-1479387600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Green Your Bottom Line in Food and Beverage Processing: An Energy and Environmental Workshop
DESCRIPTION:An interactive workshop on opportunities for food and beverage processors to reduce operating costs\, improve operations and prevent pollution through energy efficiency and renewable energy\, waste reduction\, and safer cleaning and sanitizing materials. \nThe workshop will highlight brief case studies of food and beverage processing companies that have made environmental improvements in their facilities; introduce you to free assistance available to help identify and implement improvements in your facility; provide the opportunity to network with your peers and share experiences\, challenges and successes; and bring you together with experts who will help develop an action plan. \nRegistration and additional details at http://foodbeveragema.eventbrite.com.  There is no charge for this workshop\, but we ask that you register by November 14. \nFor more information on this initiative or future events\, visit www.ceere.org/food or write to laurenm@umass.edu. \nHosted by: MA Department of Agricultural Resources\, MA Department of Energy Resources\, MA Department of Environmental Protection\, MA Department of Public Health\, MA Office of Technical Assistance\, Toxics Use Reduction Institute\, UMass Amherst Center for Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy\, UMass Clean Energy Extension\, UMass Lowell Center for Sustainable Production\, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/green-your-bottom-line-in-food-and-beverage-processing-an-energy-and-environmental-workshop/
LOCATION:UMass Springfield\, 1500 Main Street\, Springfield\, MA\, 01115
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161116T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161116T173000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161102T144314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161102T144314Z
UID:21427-1479285000-1479317400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:GAPs and FSMA Workshop for Produce Growers
DESCRIPTION:This ​training ​will ​introduce ​basic ​produce ​safety ​concepts ​and ​ practices\, ​and ​will ​help ​growers ​understand ​and ​implement ​FSMA ​ Produce ​Safety ​Rule ​requirements ​and ​prepare ​ ​to ​write ​a ​farm  ​food ​safety ​plan. ​Sections ​of ​the ​FSMA ​Produce ​Safety ​Rule ​ requirements ​will ​be ​outlined ​within ​each ​module. ​ ​This ​ workshop ​will ​satisfy ​the ​FSMA ​Produce ​Safety ​Rule ​requirement ​ for ​growers ​who ​are ​covered ​by ​FSMA ​outlined ​in ​§ ​112.22(c) ​ that ​requires ​‘At ​least ​one ​supervisor ​from ​the ​farm ​must ​ complete ​food ​safety ​training ​at ​least ​equivalent ​to ​the ​ standardized ​curriculum ​recognized ​by ​the ​FDA’. ​ ​The ​AFDO ​ certificate ​demonstrates ​you ​have ​met ​this ​requirement. \nDay ​1 ​(Nov. ​16) ​of ​this ​event ​is ​for ​both ​growers ​and ​ trainers ​who ​are ​seeking ​to ​become ​certified​. ​​Ag. ​service ​ providers ​and ​trainers ​must ​also ​attend ​Day ​2 ​if ​seeking ​to ​ become ​a ​Produce ​Safety ​Alliance ​(PSA) ​Trainer. \nFind more info and register here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/gaps-and-fsma-workshop-for-produce-growers/
LOCATION:American Legion (Brattleboro)\, 32 Linden Street\, Brattleboro\, VT\, 05301\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161115T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161115T120000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161102T144601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161102T144601Z
UID:21429-1479207600-1479211200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Business Basics for Beginning Farmers
DESCRIPTION:If you’re interested in starting a farm enterprise\, or know someone who is\, tune into Business Basics for Beginning Farmers as Chris Laughton\, Director of Knowledge Exchange at Farm Credit East\, and Gary Matteson\, Vice President for Young\, Beginning\, Small Farmer Programs and Outreach at the Farm Credit Council\, cover some business management concepts important for the success of beginning farmers. \nBasic financial statements\, cash flow\, budgets and approaching a lender will be included in the webinar along with tips beginning farmers have used to achieve their goals. \nThis webinar is free\, and open to the public. Feel free to forward this invitation to your contacts and/or interested parties. If you are unable to attend live\, the recording will be available afterwards at farmcrediteast.com/webinars. \nRegister Here
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-business-basics-for-beginning-farmers/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161115
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161119
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160929T143627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160929T143641Z
UID:21061-1479168000-1479513599@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Better Process Control School
DESCRIPTION:This ​course ​will ​train ​food ​processors ​principles ​of​ acidification\, ​and ​container ​closure ​evaluation ​programs ​for ​ low-acid ​and ​acidified ​canned ​foods ​as ​required ​by ​FDA ​ regulations ​in ​CFR ​108\, ​113 ​and ​114. ​The ​purpose ​of ​these regulations ​is ​to ​help ​ensure ​the ​safety ​of ​consumers ​by training ​producers. ​This ​course ​will ​satisfy ​both ​USDA ​and ​FDA regulatory ​requirements. This ​event ​is ​sponsored ​by ​Umass ​Extension\, ​Department ​of ​ Food ​Science ​and ​Grocery ​Manufacturers ​Association ​(GMA ​Science).\nClick here to register!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/better-process-control-school/
LOCATION:UMass Amherst\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161110
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161113
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160316T134911Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160316T134911Z
UID:18569-1478736000-1478995199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:NESAWG's 2016 'It Takes a Region' Conference
DESCRIPTION:NESAWG‘s annual It Takes a Region Conference brings together farm and food practitioners across the 12-state Northeast region to learn\, debate\, collaborate\, and innovate solutions to critical food systems issues. Each year\, we look at the trajectory of the food and farm movement\, and the role our network can play in shaping its future.We offer in-depth working sessions and provocative dialogues that tackle important questions about our regional food system and how to strengthen it. We draw upon exciting local and regional efforts\, including alternative supply chain networks\, research projects\, infrastructure initiatives and policy advocacy. \nVisit NESAWG’s website for updated information on the conference as it approaches.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/nesawgs-2016-it-takes-a-region-conference/
LOCATION:Hartford Hilton\, 315 Trumbull Street\, Hartford\, CT\, 06103\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161109T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161109T170000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160927T211420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160927T211420Z
UID:21031-1478682000-1478710800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Product Development Considerations: Beyond the Concept
DESCRIPTION:Do you want help better understanding the food safety principles behind your process? Do you need help with product development for a current or future product? Propel your food business to the next level by delving into product development and food safety with Amanda Kinchla\, of the UMASS Food Science Department\, an expert on HACCP and product development. Organized by the Franklin County CDC. Find details and registration here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/product-development-considerations-beyond-the-concept/
LOCATION:Franklin County Community Development Corporation\, 324 Wells Street\, Greenfield\, MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161105T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161105T160000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161031T195532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161031T195532Z
UID:21392-1478332800-1478361600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:1st Annual Southern New England Livestock Conference
DESCRIPTION:The Livestock Institute of Southern New England and Bristol Aggie are co-hosting the first annual Southern New England Livestock Conference. The conference will provide a platform to share information on best practices for humanely raising livestock\, humane slaughter and processing\, and marketing of meat products. \nTopics include animal nutrition\, soil management for pastures\, grazing and pasture management\, exploring the rules and regulations for livestock farmers\, health care and humane treatment of farm animals\, adding value to your meat products\, and much more. \nThere will be more than 20 different seminars including talks for all levels from those interested in getting animals for the first time to established livestock farmers. \nVisit the Expo with vendors representing all aspects of livestock production: feed\, fencing\, financing and more. Beginning and experienced producers\, small-scale farmers\, homesteaders\, chefs\, foodies\, youth\, and consumers – All are welcome! \nRegistration is $25 and only $10 for students. Visit www.thelivestockinstitute.org to reserve your spot today.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/1st-annual-southern-new-england-livestock-conference/
LOCATION:Bristol County Agricultural High School\, 135 Center Street\, Dighton\, MA\, 02715\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161102T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161102T160000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160816T145327Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160816T145327Z
UID:20322-1478076300-1478102400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Symposium: Managing Phosphorus in Organic Residuals Applied to Soils
DESCRIPTION:How do we develop a balanced system for use of organic residuals\, with all their benefits\, without adding to negative environmental impacts caused by phosphorus (P) leaching and runoff? This symposium will provide technical\, research-based information and dialogue on the presence\, forms\, dynamics\, transport\, and fates of P applied to soils in organic residuals such as composts\, biosolids\, manures\, and digestates from anaerobic digestion. This symposium is intended to help in developing guidelines for the use of P-containing organic residuals in accordance with nutrient management regulations. \nApproval has been requested for the following professional certifications: CGCS\, CSFM\, MCH\, MCLP\, and AOLCP. \nTo Register: https://www.regonline.com/phosphorus \nProgram Outline\n8:15\nRegistration (coffee and tea) \n8:45\nBackground: Defining the Phosphorus Problem\nWelcome and Introduction: What the Phosphorus!\nMary Owen\, Extension Turf Specialist\, University of Massachusetts Amherst\nPolicy\, Regulation and Management of Organic Residuals \nNed Beecher\, Executive Director\, North East Biosolids and Residuals Association (NEBRA)\nPhosphorus Trends in New England Soils\nKatie Campbell-Nelson\, Extension Vegetable Specialist\, University of Massachusetts Amherst \nAnalysis of Phosphorus\nPhosphorus Dynamics and Mitigation in Soils\nSpeaker TBD\nAnalysis and Interpretation of Phosphorus in Soils and Residuals\nDr. John Spargo\, Director\, Agricultural Analytical Services Lab\, Penn State University \nPhosphorus Availability from Organic Residuals\nDr. Amy Shober\, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist Plant and Soil Sciences\, University of Delaware \n12:15– 1:30\nNetworking Lunch (provided) – Visit Exhibits and our Sponsors! \n1:30\nInterpretation and Recommendations: Round Tables and Panel Discussions \nVegetable Grower round table discussions \n\nFacilitators: Katie Campbell-Nelson\, UMass Extension Ned Beecher\, NEBRA: Industry perspective and new approaches\, Bruce Hoskins\, Soil Testing Program\, University of Maine\, Dr. John Spargo\, Director\, Agricultural Analytical Services Lab\, Penn State\n\nDairy round table discussions \n\n​Facilitators: Dr. Masoud Hashemi\, UMass Extension: Responsible manure and other residuals use and P cover cropping for P management\, Andrew Carpenter\, NEBRA member: P management alternatives for dairy\, Anthony Drouin\, NEBRA member: P management from organic fertilizers\n\nTurf panel and audience discussion \n\n Facilitator: Mary Owen\, UMass Extension\n\nPanel: \n\nDr. William Dest\, University of Connecticut\, Emeritus\nDr. Scott Ebdon\, University of Massachusetts\nDr. Jason Henderson\, University of Connecticut\nDr. Geoff Kuter\, Agresource Inc. \nTed Wales\, Hartney Greymont\, Needham\, MA \n\nDiscussion Summaries: Questions & Concerns Related to Phosphorus \n2:40-2:55\nBreak \n3:00\nQuestion and Answers with Dr. John Spargo and Dr. Amy Shober \n3:30\nClosing Remarks Mary Owen\, University of Massachusetts Amherst \nSponsorship opportunities are available. Please direct any comments or questions to Katie Campbell-Nelson\, UMass Vegetable Specialist kcampbel@umass.edu\, Dr. Masoud Hashemi UMass Crops\, Dairy\, Livestock\, Equine Specialist masoud@umass.edu\, Mary Owen\, UMass Turf Specialist mowen@umass.edu\, or Kelly Kraemer\, Event Coordinator kkraemer@umass.edu 
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/symposium-managing-phosphorus-in-organic-residuals-applied-to-soils/
LOCATION:Holiday Inn and Suites – Marlborough\, 265 Lakeside Avenue\, Marlborough\, MA\, 01752\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161102
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161105
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160901T182207Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160901T182207Z
UID:20828-1478044800-1478303999@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:FSMA Compliance: Training Program for PCQI Certification
DESCRIPTION:Regulations created under the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) begin implementation in September\, 2016. FSMA requires that facilities conducting food-related activities\, including commercial food processing\, must have in place a Food Safety Plan prepared and overseen by a “Preventive Controls Qualified Individual” (PCQI) who has successfully completed training in the development and application of risk-based preventive controls or is “otherwise qualified through job experience to develop and apply a food safety system.” The MA Cheese Guild has coordinated a training course open to all Massachusetts food processors\, since all food processors need to understand FSMA’s requirements and have sufficient time to prepare for implementation deadlines. \nThe training program will run from 9 am – 5 pm Wed. and Thurs. and from 9 am – 4 pm on Fri. Registration fees are $695 and include lunch\, beverage breaks and an official PCQI certification at completion of the course. Lead Instructor Deborah Shapos of Food Safety Management Associates is a Certified HAACP Auditor and is trained in the standardized curriculum developed by the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance (FSPCA). \nThe full course description/FAQs and registration information is here:  http://macheeseguild.org/fsma-compliance-training/ \nFinancial assistance is available for eligible businesses through the Massachusetts Workforce Training Fund\, for up to half of the cost of the course\, and will be issued as a reimbursement after the course is completed. Applications must be submitted no later than September 20. Employers who are current with their unemployment insurance are eligible for reimbursement funding.  The online application process starts here: http://web.detma.org/WTF/Express/ep1.asp  The Course ID is 1111188\, you can also find it in the training directory by searching for “FSMA.”  For questions\, contact Nakeshia Brown\, Program Coordinator for Commonwealth Corporation:  617.717.6903 or express@commcorp.org. \nA block of rooms has been reserved at Hotel UMass at a reduced rate for conference attendees at a discounted rate of $130/night. For reservations\, contact the hotel at (877) 822-2110 and reference conference code MCG16C. One complementary parking pass per room\, per night\, will be provided at check-in.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/fsma-compliance-training-program-for-pcqi-certification/
LOCATION:Hotel UMass\, 1 Campus Center Way\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161101T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161101T210000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160822T202904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160822T202904Z
UID:20707-1478023200-1478034000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Course: Tilling the Soil of Opportunity - Time and Location TBD
DESCRIPTION:More than 350 farms have completed this course for existing Massachusetts agricultural businesses that will benefit from an organized look at their current operation in order to plan for growth and change. You must have at least two years of documented farm production and income as a for-profit or non-profit farming enterprise to take this course. \nThe course instructor guides participants through creation of a full business plan to improve decision making on the farm.  MDAR has enhanced the 30 hours of group meetings with individualized technical assistance and confidential one-on-one financial planning. The instructor visits each participant’s farm during the course. \nNext Tilling the Soil course to be tentatively scheduled for Fall 2016 or early winter 2017\, location TBD based on interest. \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-tilling-the-soil-of-opportunity-time-and-location-tbd/
LOCATION:TBD
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161025T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161025T200000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20161024T212500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161024T212509Z
UID:21329-1477422000-1477425600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Inspiring Ideas from Experts in the Field
DESCRIPTION:Join Dan Kaplan\, Farm Manager of Brookfield Farm in Amherst\, MA for an overview of the financial management of a diversified farm. Brookfield has been managing a 500-share CSA since 1994 when they started with 10 acres of leased land\, not much debt\, and not much money. The business has steadily grown into a sustainable agricultural and economic entity. The webinar will cover budgeting\, financial reporting\, and planning for capital development\, using spreadsheets and quickbooks. \nBudgets and Financial Management for a CSA Farm\nTuesday\, October 25\, 2016\n7:00 pm | Eastern Daylight Time (New York\, GMT-04:00) | 1 hr \nMeeting number (access code): 732 830 368 \nMeeting password: budgets \nWhen it’s time\, join the meeting. \nJoin from a video system or application\nDial 732830368@tufts.webex.com \nJoin by phone\n+1-617-627-6767 US Toll \nCan’t join the meeting? \nIMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that this WebEx service allows audio and other information sent during the session to be recorded\, which may be discoverable in a legal matter. By joining this session\, you automatically consent to such recordings. If you do not consent to being recorded\, discuss your concerns with the host or do not join the session.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-inspiring-ideas-from-experts-in-the-field/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161020T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161020T200000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160927T212944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160927T212944Z
UID:21032-1476982800-1476993600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Slow Money Pioneer Valley Entrepreneur Showcase
DESCRIPTION:Slow Money Pioneer Valley organizes an Entrepreneur Showcase each year to bring investors together with farm and food businesses interested in their support. The Showcase is an opportunity to forge relationships that will be useful as these businesses grow and need support\, including financing. \nThe six entrepreneurs who will be presenting at this year’s Showcase: \nBree-Z-Knoll Farm\nBig Picture Beef\nNutwood Farm\nStoneman Brewery\nSerio’s Market\nSimple Gifts Farm \nThe Slow Money Pioneer Valley Entrepreneur Showcase aims to convene and connect local farm and food businesses\, individuals\, food system folks\, and investors interested in building a sustainable local and regional food system and to catalyze new investment opportunities in the people\, businesses and communities that contribute to a sustainable food economy. Slow Money Pioneer Valley is organized by the PVGrows Investment Fund\, PVGrows Network\, and the Franklin County CDC — organizations working to strengthen the local food system. Light dinner catered by Great Falls Harvest. \nRegistration here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/slow-money-pioneer-valley-entrepreneur-showcase/
LOCATION:Smith College Conference Center\, 49 College Lane\, Northampton\, MA\, 01063
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20161019T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20161019T153000
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160929T210141Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160929T210141Z
UID:21076-1476867600-1476891000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Safety and Maintenance for Small Engines and Powertools
DESCRIPTION:This six-hour class is designed to provide a basic understanding of how small engines work. There will be a review of the 2-cycle and 4-cycle process with actual engines to demonstrate how these engines work\, and tips on how best to maintain them. Like many machines\, these tools are as readily misused or abused as they are used properly\, and lack of maintenance often leads to expensive repair or replacement. The instructor will review safe and proper use\, as well as daily care and routine maintenance procedures. He will also address a vexing issue for many novices and experienced users alike: starting procedures and using the choke. \nWith such a variety of small engine machines on the market\, it is almost impossible to address all of the potential repair issues on these little workhorses. So rather than focus on actual repair\, the class is designed to provide a deeper understanding of how they work and how they are meant to be used\, and how proper use and regular maintenance can prevent most repair issues. In lieu of actual repair\, the class will cover trouble-shooting small engine issues\, and some basic repair steps to correct for some of the more common problems. There will be handouts\, and participants are encouraged to bring their own small engine machines (and the manuals!) for demo and review (time permitting). \nTo register\, please send an email to MacKenzie White Mackenzie.white@uconn.edu including the following; full name\, mailing address\, phone number\, email address\, and any dietary restrictions. Please make the checks payable to the University of Connecticut and mail to Tolland County Extension Center 24 Hyde Avenue\, Vernon\, CT 06066. \nTrainer: Shane LaBrake\nOctober 19th\, 2016 9am-3:30pm\nCost: $25\n*Limited to 15 participants*
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-safety-and-maintenance-for-small-engines-and-powertools/
LOCATION:Community Farm of Simsbury\, 73 Wolcott Road\, Simsbury\, CT
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161017
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161019
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160929T205428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160929T205915Z
UID:21074-1476662400-1476835199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Tractor Safety and Maintenance
DESCRIPTION:This is a two-day class designed to educate and empower current or future users of agricultural tractors and farm equipment. It appeals to new and beginning farmers\, and has proven valuable to many seasoned professionals – some of whom were never formally schooled on tractors. During the class\, the instructor will demystify tractors and improve understanding of how tractors are designed to work; how to operate them safely and effectively; and how to perform regular and basic maintenance tasks. \nThe class covers a lot of material – in a classroom setting\, on and around the tractor\, and “in the workshop.” While it would be very difficult to ensure full competency or mastery within two days\, the attendees will leave with a much greater appreciation for safe tractor use and machinery care\, along with new knowledge and resources they can apply to their own situations. \nTo register\, please send an email to MacKenzie White Mackenzie.white@uconn.edu including the following; full name\, mailing address\, phone number\, email address\, and any dietary restrictions. Please make the checks payable to the University of Connecticut and mail to Tolland County Extension Center 24 Hyde Avenue\, Vernon\, CT 06066. \nTrainer: Shane LaBrake\nOctober 17th & 18th\, 2016 9am-5pm\nCost: $50\n*Limited to 15 participants*
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-tractor-safety-and-maintenance/
LOCATION:Community Farm of Simsbury\, 73 Wolcott Road\, Simsbury\, CT
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161016
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161019
DTSTAMP:20260512T174748
CREATED:20160928T143946Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160928T143946Z
UID:21043-1476576000-1476835199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Women in Meat Northeast Gathering
DESCRIPTION:The gathering of Women in Meat Northeast is focused on developing the skills\, knowledge\, and network of women in meat industries and in supporting their endeavors as agents in those industries\, as business leaders and as entrepreneurs. \nWomen in Meat includes those in agriculture\, aquaculture and seafood\, for those involved in farming\, butchering\, processing\, and product development and for those in the restaurant and food service industries. \nRegister here \nSUNDAY\, October 16\, 2016\n12:00-1:00PM Lunch at Harvard Forest \nAfternoon Session\n1:30-4:30PM Master Class in Butchery: Show Me The Beef!\nKari Underly\, Range Meat Academy \nIn this session Kari will guide participants through the side of beef\, teaching them how to fabricate the side of beef into primals and it’s unique subprimals. We will discuss raising practices\, beef quality and merchandising & menuing options. \nStudents will then break in to groups and process the subprimals in to popular steaks and roasts under the instruction of Kari. You will understand how to best match cuts with cooking methods. \nSponsored by: Beef Checkoff\, Range Meat Academy\, and Stillman’s Quality Meats \nDinner\n6:30PM Taste Testing Beef: Grass finished\, grain finished\, and aged. What’s the difference? \nSponsored by: Beef Checkoff and Stillman’s Quality Meats \nMONDAY\, October 17\, 2016\n8:00-8:45AM Breakfast at Harvard Forest \nMorning Session\n9:00-10:30AM\nWhat do you need to know before developing a product HACCP planning\, FSMA\, and labeling requirements?\nAmanda Kinchla\, Food Science Extension Specialist\, University of Massachusetts Amherst \n11:00-12:00PM Developing Products: Charcuterie & Bone Broth \n12:00-1:00PM Lunch at Harvard Forest \nAfternoon Session\n1:30-4:30PM Master Class in Butchery: Let’s Talk Pork!\nKari Underly\, Range Meat Academy \nIn this session Kari will guide participants through the whole hog\, teaching them how to fabricate hog into into primals and subprimals. We will discuss raising practices\, pork quality and merchandising & menuing options. Students will then break in to groups and process the subprimals in to popular chops and roasts under the instruction of Kari. You will understand how to best match cuts with cooking methods\, and have an opportunity to create cuts popular in many charcuterie applications. \nSponsored by: Northeast Pork Association\, Range Meat Academy and Stillman’s Quality Meats \nDinner\n6:30PM Taste testing pork: Does breed matter?\nSponsored by: Northeast Pork Association and Stillman’s Quality Meats \nTUESDAY\, October 18\, 2016\n8:00-8:45PM Breakfast at Harvard Forest \nMorning Sessions\n9:00- 10:00AM Financing your project (Part 1)\nLoans\, Grants\, Kickstarter Campaigns\, & Direct Public Offerings\nSamantha Stoddard Farm Credit East\nJoanne Demars USDA Rural Development\nRebecca Busansky PV Grows Fund Coordinator \n10:30-11:30AM Financing your project (Part 2) Case Studies\nLoans\, Grants\, Kickstarter Campaigns\, & Direct Public Offerings\nLor Holmes\, CERO Cooperative\nKate Stillman\, Stillman’s Quality Meats \n12:00-1:00PM Lunch at Harvard Forest \nAfternoon Sessions\n1:30-3:00PM Afternoon Roundtable:\nWhat resources do we need to develop in the Northeast so that we can grow the industry?
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/women-in-meat-northeast-gathering/
LOCATION:Harvard Forest\, 324 North Main Street\, Petersham\, MA\, 01366\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR