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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T203000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200228T210716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200314T000459Z
UID:32947-1585848600-1585859400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:WORKSHOP CANCELED: Farmer-to-farmer: sharing farm labor management successes and challenges
DESCRIPTION:**NOTE: THIS WORKSHOP HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS. WE HOPE TO BE ABLE TO RESCHEDULE IT AT A LATER TIME.** \nAll those who attend one or more of CISA’s winter workshops on farm labor management are invited to join this facilitated farmer-to-farmer discussion. This session will allow time for more in-depth conversation and idea-sharing related to several of the topics raised during the preceding workshops. Attendees will have the opportunity to get input from other farmers on specific management challenges they face and to share their own management strategies. Discussion topics will include strategies for training and coaching employees\, building effective and accountable teams on the farm\, establishing open lines of communication\, encouraging employee input and engagement\, and how to make time for it all! Seasoned farm managers will be participating to share their experiences and help facilitate conversation. This session is free\, and dinner will be provided. \nRegister here by Tuesday\, March 31st.\n\nThis workshop is part of a six-workshop series on farm labor management. Click here for information on the other workshops in this series.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farmer-to-farmer-sharing-farm-labor-management-successes-and-challenges/
LOCATION:Whately Town Hall\, 194 Chestnut Plain Road\, Whately\, MA\, 01093
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T170000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200323T192619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200323T192619Z
UID:33273-1585828800-1585846800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Farm to Freezer: The Logistics of Online Sales & Shipping Meat
DESCRIPTION:When: Thursday\, April 2nd\n12pmEST \nHear from three experienced panelists who sell their meats online & ship direct to consumers. Let’s turn the COVID-19 pandemic into an opportunity to connect our niche meats to hungry consumers. Topics will include: setting up an online store\, different web platforms\, accepting payments\, updating inventory\, meat selection\, subscriptions versus ala-carte orders\, boxes\, insulation\, dry ice\, maintaining cold chain\, shipping carriers\, costs\, & legalities of selling meat across state lines (Rebecca will cover that one). This will be more of an informal discussion than a formal presentation. \nPanelists include:\nMatthew Lawrence\, Marble Creek Farmstead & Marble City Meats USDA plant\, AL\nAdrienne Larrew\, Corner Post Meats\, CO\nBrian Brozovic\, Painted Hills Natural Beef\, OR \nPlease pre-register at least 10 minutes before the webinar at this link. All NMPAN webinars are FREE and will be archived to our YouTube channel should you not be able to attend.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-farm-to-freezer-the-logistics-of-online-sales-shipping-meat/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T130000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200330T204417Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200330T204417Z
UID:33444-1585828800-1585832400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar on new payroll and tax provisions in FFCRA
DESCRIPTION:Farm Credit East is offering an educational webinar regarding new payroll and tax provisions outlined in the newly passed Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and Coronavirus Aid\, Relief\, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This free webinar will be held on Thursday\, April 2\, from noon to 1 p.m. \nSenior Tax Consultant\, Dario Arezzo\, will review some of the key tax provisions of the CARES Act\, as well as tax planning considerations for agricultural businesses. Tax and payroll provisions of the FFCRA\, including emergency leave and payroll tax credits for employers\, will also be covered. \nTo register for the free\, one-hour webinar\, or to see recordings of past webinars\, visit FarmCreditEast.com/Webinars. Also\, for ongoing updates on tax provisions including updates on tax law changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic\, visit our Tax Talks blog at FarmCreditEast.com/TaxTalks.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-on-new-payroll-and-tax-provisions-in-ffcra/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T160000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200325T131126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200325T131155Z
UID:33330-1585753200-1585756800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Strategies for Online Farm Stores
DESCRIPTION:Strategies for Online Farm Stores\nWednesday\, April 1\, 2020\n3:00 PM – 4:00 PM \nAre you looking to transition to online or pre-paid sales? Thinking about offering home delivery or curbside pick-up? Come hear from a panel of livestock farmers who are currently doing it successfully! Our presenters are Hayden Holbert of Avrom Farm in WI\, Sam Gasson of Bull City Farm in NC\, Katie Steere of Deep Roots Farm in RI\, and Heather Puckett of MT Cross Farm in MT. They will share their experiences with the various online platforms\, and also offer tips for navigating the logistical challenges that come with online stores. \nClick here to register for this online farm sales webinar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-strategies-for-online-farm-stores/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T150000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200129T202918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202918Z
UID:32692-1585733400-1585753200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Grafting Fruit Trees: a Hands-on Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Grafting Fruit Trees: a Hands-on Workshop\n$100/person***\nDr. Wesley Autio \nApril 11\, 2020\, 9:30am to 3:00pm\nUMass Cold Spring Orchard: 391 Sabin St.\, Belchertown\, MA 01007 \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 be discussed. Proper tools and sharpening will be included. All workshop participants will graft several apple trees to take home! \n***This workshop is longer and involves additional plant material and supply costs \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/grafting-fruit-trees-a-hands-on-workshop/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T153000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200129T202351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202351Z
UID:32688-1585400400-1585409400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Home Orchard Pest Management
DESCRIPTION:Home Orchard Pest Management -a Hands-on Workshop\n$50/person\nDr. Jaime Pinero and Ms. Liz Garofalo \nMarch 28\,2020\, 1:00pm to 3:30pm\nCarlson Orchards: 115 Oak Hill Rd.\, Harvard MA 01451 \nOne of the most challenging thing about growing your own fruit is knowing how to identify the insect pests and diseases that might afflict them. Learn the basics of pest and disease identification and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the home orchard. Hands-on\, scouting\, monitoring\, placement of traps\, etc. will be covered. \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/home-orchard-pest-management/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T120000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200129T202215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202215Z
UID:32686-1585389600-1585396800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Home Orchard Establishment & Basics
DESCRIPTION:Home Orchard Establishment & Basics -a Classroom Workshop\n$50/person\nMr. Jon Clements and Ms. Liz Garofalo \nMarch 28\,2020\, 10:00am to 12:00pm\nCarlson Orchards: 115 Oak Hill Rd.\, Harvard MA 01451 \nHorticultural topics covered will be the basics of planting fruit trees\, including site selection\, choice of variety and root stock\, planting best practices\, tree training and pruning\, fertilization and ongoing fruit tree care. (In-depth pest management will be covered in the afternoon session.) If weather permits\, there will be a hands-on demonstration of planting fruit trees at the Orchard. \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/home-orchard-establishment-basics/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200325T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200325T170000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141838
CREATED:20200226T173342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T173342Z
UID:32922-1585125000-1585155600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Produce Safety Grower Training 2020 Series
DESCRIPTION:Who Should Attend \nFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety\, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule\, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs)\, and co-management of natural resources and food safety. This course will also cover the Massachusetts Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP)\, a voluntary 3rd-party audit program. \nThis training satisfies the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement for covered farms that “at least one supervisor or responsible party” completes “food safety training … recognized as adequate” by FDA (21 C.F.R. §112.22(c)). \nFor more information on the Produce Safety Alliance and the Grower Training Course\, see: https://producesafetyalliance.cornell.edu/training/grower-training-courses \nCost is $50 for each program and includes the required PSA Grower Manual ($60 value)\, a Certificate of Course attendance from AFDO ($35 value)\, and lunch and refreshments. \nInstructors:  \n\nLisa McKeag\, UMass Extension\nMichael Botelho\, MDAR Produce Safety Inspection Program\n\nThe training will be held in multiple locations:  \n\nWednesday\, March 25 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Wylie Inn & Conference Center\, 295 Hale St.\, Beverly\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSABeverly20 \n\nWednesday\, April 1 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Rosebrook Event Center\, 50 Rosebrook Place\, Wareham\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSAWareham20 \nQuestions? Contact for all programs: Lisa McKeag\, lmckeag@umass.edu\, 413- 545-1051.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/produce-safety-grower-training-2020-series-2/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200323T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200323T130000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200129T200601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T200601Z
UID:32673-1584952200-1584968400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Grazing systems Introduction and overview to grazing systems
DESCRIPTION:2020 Classroom Workshops\nNutrition’s Role in Sustainable Livestock Production Practices A workshop series on pasture management and infrastructure and the nutritional needs of livestock raised on pasture. \nAll workshops held in the training room at Farm Credit East\, 240 S Rd. Enfield CT \nMonday\, March 23\, 2020 8:30 am to 1 pm (snow date: Mon. Mar. 30) Grazing systems Introduction and overview to grazing systems\, in-depth discussion of different types of grazing systems and multi-species grazing\nPeter Lowy\, Farm Manager at Codman Community Farm\nDr. Justine Deming\, University of Rhode Island \nSnow dates will be utilized if necessary. Those who registered will receive an email by 5 pm the previous day. Changes will also be posted on our website.\nRegister for any or all of the workshops at https://forms.gle/Q6MuG7xyyUH9y98x9 or email jean.king@uconn.edu \nThree field training workshops demonstrating these topics will be held in the summer. Certificates of Participation will be given to those who attend all three classroom workshops and at least one of the field workshops. \nThese workshops are part of the USDA/NESARE Professional Development Program grant: Nutrition’s Role in Sustainable Livestock Production Practices\, a joint project among the Universities of Connecticut\, Massachusetts\, and Rhode Island. Tri-State Project Director: Rachel Bespuda\, UConn Rachel.bespuda@uconn.edu   www.meatsystems.uconn.edu
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/grazing-systems-introduction-and-overview-to-grazing-systems/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200321T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200321T120000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200129T202020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202020Z
UID:32684-1584784800-1584792000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Growing & Pruning Grapes: a Hands-on Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Growing & Pruning Grapes: a Hands-on Workshop\n$50/person\nMs. Sonia Schloemann \nMarch 21\, 2020\, 10:00am to 12:00pm\nUMass Cold Spring Orchard: 391 Sabin St.\, Belchertown\, MA 01007 \nGrapes are one of the most universally enjoyed fruits available. Many new varieties have superb taste\, are winter hardy\, and can make excellent wine. Grapes are fun to grow but present some challenges. One of the biggest challenges is knowing how to correctly prune them. Participants will have the opportunity to conduct actual pruning and gain both experience and confidence in pruning and training grapes in order to produce a bountiful crop. We’ll learn about tool maintenance and sharpening\, too. Bring your own tools or use ours \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/growing-pruning-grapes-a-hands-on-workshop/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200319T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200319T180000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200212T141557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200212T141557Z
UID:32813-1584630000-1584640800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Adapting to the Changing Local Foods Market
DESCRIPTION:Adapting to the Changing Local Foods Market \nThursday\, March 19\, 3:00-6:00pm\nStockbridge Community Room\, 50 Main Street\, Stockbridge\, MA\n$15 for Berkshire Grown members/ $25 for non-members \nMyrna Greenfield\, from Good Egg Marketing\, will share the latest market trends and how you can adapt your local food business to the changing market. \nLearn More.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/adapting-to-the-changing-local-foods-market-2/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200319T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200319T180000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200203T213618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200203T213618Z
UID:32749-1584630000-1584640800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Adapting to the Changing Local Foods Market
DESCRIPTION:Adapting to the Changing Local Foods Market \nThursday\, March 19\, 3:00-6:00pm \nStockbridge Community Room\, 50 Main Street\, Stockbridge\, MA \n$15 for Berkshire Grown members/ $25 for non-members\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs the local foods market matures and competition increases\, it’s becoming harder for experienced farmers to maintain market share and new farmers to break in. Learn tools and techniques to help your farm adapt to market trends\, differentiate yourself and stay relevant. \nGood Egg Marketing is a Boston-based business that helps good businesses grow. Good Egg was hatched by Myrna Greenfield\, a “good egg” with a passion for sharing good food and bad puns. Greenfield works with associates in business planning\, finance\, graphic design\, web development\, and social media to help small businesses and organizations solve their toughest marketing problems. She’s a board member for the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts and a former board member for Harvest Co-op Markets\, Equal Exchange\, and Sustainable Step New England.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/adapting-to-the-changing-local-foods-market/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200319T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200319T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200226T172543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T172543Z
UID:32918-1584610200-1584635400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Agricultural Composting Training
DESCRIPTION:MDAR is conducting a no-cost training workshop for registered agricultural composters and other farms interested in agricultural composting (larger than backyard composting). Space is limited\, and first preference will be given to farms already registered in the MDAR Agricultural Composting Program. These workshops will meet the upcoming regulatory requirement for farmers who are currently registered in MDAR’s Agricultural Composting Program to attend a state approved training program in order to continue to maintain a composting registration. Topics include: \n\nPrinciples of Composting\nSite Selection\, Layout and Maintenance\nCompost Recipe Development\nMonitoring\, Troubleshooting\, and Development of Odor Management Plan\nOn-Farm Compost Use\nUpdates to MDAR Agricultural Composting Program Regulations\n\nThese one-day trainings will run from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm\, lunch is provided. Locations and dates are: \n\nMarch 19 – UMass Cranberry Experiment Station\, 1 State Bog Road\, East Wareham\n\n\nRegistration: Email Dorothy.Du@mass.gov with your name\, farm name\, address\, phone number\, and date/location you wish to attend. \nQuestions\, contact MDAR Agricultural Composting Coordinator\, Sean Bowen at 617-626-1724\, Sean.Bowen@mass.gov.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/agricultural-composting-training-3/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200318T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200318T170000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200226T173248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T173248Z
UID:32920-1584520200-1584550800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Produce Safety Grower Training 2020 Series
DESCRIPTION:Who Should Attend \nFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety\, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule\, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs)\, and co-management of natural resources and food safety. This course will also cover the Massachusetts Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP)\, a voluntary 3rd-party audit program. \nThis training satisfies the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement for covered farms that “at least one supervisor or responsible party” completes “food safety training … recognized as adequate” by FDA (21 C.F.R. §112.22(c)). \nFor more information on the Produce Safety Alliance and the Grower Training Course\, see: https://producesafetyalliance.cornell.edu/training/grower-training-courses \nCost is $50 for each program and includes the required PSA Grower Manual ($60 value)\, a Certificate of Course attendance from AFDO ($35 value)\, and lunch and refreshments. \nInstructors:  \n\nLisa McKeag\, UMass Extension\nMichael Botelho\, MDAR Produce Safety Inspection Program\n\nThe training will be held in 3 locations:  \n\nWednesday\, March 18 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Hampshire College\, Franklin Patterson Hall\, 893 West St\, Amherst\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSAAmherst20 \n\nWednesday\, March 25 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Wylie Inn & Conference Center\, 295 Hale St.\, Beverly\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSABeverly20 \n\nWednesday\, April 1 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Rosebrook Event Center\, 50 Rosebrook Place\, Wareham\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSAWareham20 \nQuestions? Contact for all programs: Lisa McKeag\, lmckeag@umass.edu\, 413- 545-1051.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/produce-safety-grower-training-2020-series/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200317T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200317T180000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200212T141516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200212T141516Z
UID:32811-1584457200-1584468000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Managing Conflict for Farmers: Communication Skills and Resources
DESCRIPTION:Managing Conflict for Farmers: Communication Skills and Resources \nTuesday\, March 17\, 3:00-6:00pm\nStockbridge Community Room\, 50 Main Street\, Stockbridge\, MA\n$15 for Berkshire Grown members/ $25 for non-members \nPerhaps you’ve had a difficult interaction with a customer\, or come into conflict with family or neighbors about your practices. Berkshire County and New York mediators Kayla Wendling and Claudia Kenny will guide us through using skills like active listening  to create better communication and help you navigate the challenges we all face. \nLearn More.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/managing-conflict-for-farmers-communication-skills-and-resources-2/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200317T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200317T180000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200203T213505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200203T213505Z
UID:32747-1584457200-1584468000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Managing Conflict for Farmers: Communication Skills and Resources
DESCRIPTION:Managing Conflict for Farmers: Communication Skills and Resources \nTuesday\, March 17\, 3:00-6:00pm \nStockbridge Community Room\, 50 Main Street\, Stockbridge\, MA \n$15 for Berkshire Grown members/ $25 for non-members\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you experienced disputes on your farm? With neighbors? Workplace interactions with your staff? Perhaps you are facing a farm transition or conflict over agricultural and leasing issues. Agricultural Mediation services in Berkshire County recently expanded to cover all of these and more. Program Director\, Kayla Wendling will be joined by New York Ag Mediation Statewide Director\, Claudia Kenny to share skills and knowledge about approaches to conflict\, what mediation is\, and services available in each state.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/managing-conflict-for-farmers-communication-skills-and-resources/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200317T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200317T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20191219T183536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200314T000452Z
UID:32424-1584448200-1584462600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:WORKSHOP CANCELED: Leadership strategies for achieving workplace respect
DESCRIPTION:**NOTE: THIS WORKSHOP HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS. WE HOPE TO BE ABLE TO RESCHEDULE IT AT A LATER TIME.** \nGaining respect as a manager is not always easy. Take a deep dive into the meaning of workplace respect\, learn to identify barriers to respect\, and discuss how the concept of respect relates to topics like diversity and inclusion\, bullying\, and compliance with federal and state anti-harassment and discrimination laws. You will reflect on your own behaviors and actions\, as well as engage in interactive exercises to learn and apply new tools and strategies for creating a more positive and productive workplace. Presenter Mark Emrick of the Employers Association of the Northeast will discuss immediately applicable communication techniques that will help you interact in a respectful manner with those you manage\, and successfully ask for mutual respect from them. This workshop is limited to 25 attendees. Lunch will be provided. \nRegister here!\n\nThis workshop is part of a six-workshop series on farm labor management. Click here for information on the other workshops in this series.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/leadership-strategies-for-achieving-workplace-respect/
LOCATION:ServiceNet\, 21 Olander Drive\, Northampton\, MA\, 01060
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200316T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200316T140000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200227T141109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200227T141109Z
UID:32935-1584360000-1584367200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Financial Management Calendar  - Webinar
DESCRIPTION:The Carrot Project’s free\, live webinar – the Financial Management Calendar  is open for registration. This tool is designed to help you stay on top of financial management tasks critical to making effective business decisions during the busy growing season. Learn how to adapt the Calendar to your farm’s needs and realities and create a personalized financial management calendar that meets your needs. \nThe webinar will be held Monday March 16th from noon to 2 PM.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/financial-management-calendar-webinar/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200314T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200314T120000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200129T201744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T201844Z
UID:32679-1584180000-1584187200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Pruning Blueberries: a Hands-on Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Pruning Blueberries: a Hands-on Workshop\n$50/person\nMs. Sonia Schloemann \nMarch 14\, 2020\, 10:00am to 12:00pm\nSholan Farm: 1124 Pleasant St.\, Leominster\, MA 01453 \nBlueberries are among the most popular fruits to grow in the home garden. They are healthful and well suited tour New England conditions.Come learn the basics for pruning blueberries for your home landscape. Participants will get some hands-on pruning lessons. We’ll learn about tool maintenance and sharpening\, too. Tools provided \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/pruning-blueberries-a-hands-on-workshop/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200313T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200313T150000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200220T165220Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200220T165220Z
UID:32870-1584100800-1584111600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Making It Happen: Profitability and Success
DESCRIPTION:The Making It Happen: Profitability and Success Training for farmers and food processors will give you the financial management toolbox needed to confidently answer these questions and improve your business decision making and profitability. \nThis interactive course presents four tools — cash flow budgeting\, scenario planning\, enterprise budgeting\, and sensitivity analysis — that “are fundamental and work well together to provide a comprehensive toolbox\,” according to a 2018 course participant. \nThe training is intended for producers with at least one year of operating experience and is approved as a USDA Farm Service Agency borrower training in Massachusetts\, New York\, Connecticut\, and Rhode Island. Participants in these areas receive registration priority. \n\n\nThis remote learning series is limited to 12 businesses and takes place in 3 sessions of approximately 3 hours each.    \nSession one:        Friday March 6       Noon to 3 PM \nSession two:        Friday March 13      Noon to 3 PM \nSession three:     Monday March 30    Noon to 3 PM \nRegister here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/making-it-happen-profitability-and-success-4/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200311T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200311T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200226T172502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T172502Z
UID:32916-1583919000-1583944200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Agricultural Composting Training
DESCRIPTION:MDAR is conducting a no-cost training workshop for registered agricultural composters and other farms interested in agricultural composting (larger than backyard composting). Space is limited\, and first preference will be given to farms already registered in the MDAR Agricultural Composting Program. These workshops will meet the upcoming regulatory requirement for farmers who are currently registered in MDAR’s Agricultural Composting Program to attend a state approved training program in order to continue to maintain a composting registration. Topics include: \n\nPrinciples of Composting\nSite Selection\, Layout and Maintenance\nCompost Recipe Development\nMonitoring\, Troubleshooting\, and Development of Odor Management Plan\nOn-Farm Compost Use\nUpdates to MDAR Agricultural Composting Program Regulations\n\nThese one-day trainings will run from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm\, lunch is provided. Locations and dates are: \n\nMarch 11 – New Entry Sustainable Farming Project\, 733 Cabot Street\, Beverly\nMarch 19 – UMass Cranberry Experiment Station\, 1 State Bog Road\, East Wareham\n\n\nRegistration: Email Dorothy.Du@mass.gov with your name\, farm name\, address\, phone number\, and date/location you wish to attend. \nQuestions\, contact MDAR Agricultural Composting Coordinator\, Sean Bowen at 617-626-1724\, Sean.Bowen@mass.gov.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/agricultural-composting-training-2/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200310T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200310T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20191219T183401Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200228T210145Z
UID:32422-1583848800-1583857800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Building a positive workplace culture through active bystander training
DESCRIPTION:Farm managers are responsible for setting the tone and ensuring a respectful\, safe\, and productive work environment. However\, they are by no means alone in contributing to workplace culture – each member of the farm team has unique skills and opportunities to help build a more positive workplace culture. This workshop will equip farm managers\, crew leaders\, and other employees with tools to respond proactively to workplace conflict and to contribute to improving the culture on their farm. Presenters Sharon Tracy and Susan Wallace of Quabbin Mediation will train attendees in principles of active bystandership\, building competencies to assess opportunities for taking action when witnessing something they find troubling. Active bystandership leads to more positive interactions among people\, creates an improved workplace atmosphere where all employees feel safe\, and contributes to workplace productivity. This training will also promote collaborative team building\, strong leadership skills\, and a greater sense of competence and commitment to the farm. \nRegister here!\n\nThis workshop is part of a six-workshop series on farm labor management. Click here for information on the other workshops in this series.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/building-a-positive-workplace-culture-through-active-bystander-training/
LOCATION:The Food Bank of Western MA\, 97 North Hatfield Road\, Hatfield\, MA\, 01038
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200309T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200309T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200225T210641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200225T210641Z
UID:32905-1583766000-1583771400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Value-Add Program info session
DESCRIPTION:Turn Your Produce into Value-Added Products at the Western MA Food Processing Center\n\nInfo Session March 9 from 3-4:30pm\n324 Wells St. Greenfield MA \nThe Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center (WMFPC) is a shared-use food processing facility in Greenfield MA\, which offers both rental and co-packing services to regional food entrepreneurs and local farms. \nThis summer and fall\, they will be launching a Value-Add Program for local farms. This program aims to increase our region’s capacity to lightly process fruits and vegetables to make local food accessible year-round. The WMFPC works with farmers to process their fresh produce into frozen and value-added\, shelf-stable products. \n\nJoin us at our info session next month or email Kate at katev@fccdc.org for more information.\n\nRSVP here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/value-add-program-info-session/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200306T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200306T150000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200220T165121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200220T165121Z
UID:32868-1583496000-1583506800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Making it Happen: Profitability and Success
DESCRIPTION:The Making It Happen: Profitability and Success Training for farmers and food processors will give you the financial management toolbox needed to confidently answer these questions and improve your business decision making and profitability. \nThis interactive course presents four tools — cash flow budgeting\, scenario planning\, enterprise budgeting\, and sensitivity analysis — that “are fundamental and work well together to provide a comprehensive toolbox\,” according to a 2018 course participant. \nThe training is intended for producers with at least one year of operating experience and is approved as a USDA Farm Service Agency borrower training in Massachusetts\, New York\, Connecticut\, and Rhode Island. Participants in these areas receive registration priority. \n\n\nThis remote learning series is limited to 12 businesses and takes place in 3 sessions of approximately 3 hours each.    \nSession one:        Friday March 6       Noon to 3 PM \nSession two:        Friday March 13      Noon to 3 PM \nSession three:     Monday March 30    Noon to 3 PM \nRegister here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/making-it-happen-profitability-and-success-3/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200305T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200305T170000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20191219T183249Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200228T210242Z
UID:32420-1583409600-1583427600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Improving your farm’s employee policies and management systems
DESCRIPTION:Would you like to have better systems in place for onboarding and training employees\, consistently communicating farm policies\, or giving and receiving employee feedback?  Are you looking to brush up on employment laws to ensure that your farm is in compliance? This session will help you identify incremental changes to improve employee management systems on your farm. Presenter Libby Eiholzer of Cornell Cooperative Extension will lead you through a self-assessment of your farm’s human resources management and help you prioritize areas of improvement. She will discuss best practices for employee management and share her experiences working with dairy farms in NY to improve human resources practices and compliance. Kristen Wilmer of CISA will discuss key legal requirements for MA farm employers to keep in mind when developing farm policies\, drafting employee manuals\, or onboarding employees. You will gain new ideas through facilitated peer-to-peer discussion with other managers\, and leave the workshop with action steps for your farm. Lunch will be provided. \nRegister here!\n\nThis workshop is part of a six-workshop series on farm labor management. Click here for information on the other workshops in this series.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/improving-your-farms-employee-policies-and-management-systems/
LOCATION:The Food Bank of Western MA\, 97 North Hatfield Road\, Hatfield\, MA\, 01038
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200305T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200305T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200226T172343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T172357Z
UID:32914-1583400600-1583425800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Agricultural Composting Training
DESCRIPTION:MDAR is conducting a no-cost training workshop for registered agricultural composters and other farms interested in agricultural composting (larger than backyard composting). Space is limited\, and first preference will be given to farms already registered in the MDAR Agricultural Composting Program. These workshops will meet the upcoming regulatory requirement for farmers who are currently registered in MDAR’s Agricultural Composting Program to attend a state approved training program in order to continue to maintain a composting registration. Topics include: \n\nPrinciples of Composting\nSite Selection\, Layout and Maintenance\nCompost Recipe Development\nMonitoring\, Troubleshooting\, and Development of Odor Management Plan\nOn-Farm Compost Use\nUpdates to MDAR Agricultural Composting Program Regulations\n\nThese one-day trainings will run from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm\, lunch is provided. Locations and dates are: \n\nMarch 5 – Community Harvest Project\, 37 Wheeler Road\, North Grafton\nMarch 11 – New Entry Sustainable Farming Project\, 733 Cabot Street\, Beverly\nMarch 19 – UMass Cranberry Experiment Station\, 1 State Bog Road\, East Wareham\n\n\nRegistration: Email Dorothy.Du@mass.gov with your name\, farm name\, address\, phone number\, and date/location you wish to attend. \nQuestions\, contact MDAR Agricultural Composting Coordinator\, Sean Bowen at 617-626-1724\, Sean.Bowen@mass.gov.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/agricultural-composting-training/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200305T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200305T150000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200212T141723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200212T141723Z
UID:32815-1583398800-1583420400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Vegetable Nutrient Management Workshops
DESCRIPTION:Vegetable Nutrient Management Workshops \nNeed help interpreting your soil test results? Juggling nutrient recommendations for many different fields? The UMass Extension Vegetable Program\, in collaborating with University of Vermont Extension\, is holding 2 workshops on vegetable nutrient management this March aimed at improving soil health practices. Growers are encouraged to bring current soil test results to work with. \nBy the end of an intensive day\, growers will: \n1)      Interpret soil test results\, calculate nutrient requirements\, and choose soil amendments \n2)      Learn how to improve high tunnel nutrient management \n3)      Hear from experienced and innovative farmers sharing their soil health strategies \n4)      Work one-on-one with Extension specialists to develop a nutrient management plan for the 2020 growing season \nThis workshop will be held in two locations: \n\nHadley\, MA\n\nWhen: Thursday\, March 5\, 2020\, 9am-3pm \nWhere: UMass Equine & Livestock Farm (The Hadley Farm)\, 111 North Maple St.\, Hadley\, MA 01035 \nRegistration: $25 per person\, includes lunch and refreshments. Click here to register for the Hadley Nutrient Management workshop. \n\nWestborough\, MA\n\nWhen: Friday\, March 6\, 2020\, 9am-3pm \nWhere: MA Division of Fish & Wildlife Building\, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd.\, Westborough\, MA 01581 \nRegistration: $25 per person\, includes lunch and refreshments. Click here to register for the Westborough Nutrient Management workshop. \nQuestions? Contact Genevieve Higgins at ghiggins@umass.edu or (413) 577-3976.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/vegetable-nutrient-management-workshops/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200227T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200227T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20191219T183149Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T185316Z
UID:32418-1582806600-1582821000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Performance management – set it\, manage it\, measure it!
DESCRIPTION:Providing effective performance management doesn’t just protect your farm from liability and establish standards and accountability for those you manage – it actually helps your farm grow! Presenter Patti D’Amaddio of the Employers Association of the Northeast will describe how a holistic approach to performance management can increase employee engagement\, help employees on their path to development\, and assist your business in meeting its strategic goals. Through interactive activities and role play you will gain skills to clearly communicate expectations and goals to the people you manage\, to measure employee performance\, and deliver effective feedback. This workshop is limited to 25 attendees. Lunch will be provided. \n\n \nRegister here!\n\nThis workshop is part of a six-workshop series on farm labor management. Click here for information on the other five workshops in the series.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/performance-management-set-it-manage-it-measure-it/
LOCATION:The Food Bank of Western MA\, 97 North Hatfield Road\, Hatfield\, MA\, 01038
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200227T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200227T130000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200203T212724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200203T212724Z
UID:32739-1582804800-1582808400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Co-op Law 101: A little bit of everything [Webinar]
DESCRIPTION:Co-ops are member owned entities that provide a solid foundation for farms and community members to collaboratively support the local food system. Attorney Dave Swanson is going to provide a baseline knowledge of co-ops\, including consumer co-ops and grower co-ops. He is also going to discuss what to consider when choosing a business structure and specifically the differences between non-profits and co-ops. With over 35 years of experience and Land O’Lakes and dozens of consumer coops as a clients\, Dave is sure to provide a webinar filled with valuable information.\n\n\nTime: Feb 27\, 2020 12:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)\n\nClick here to register.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/co-op-law-101-a-little-bit-of-everything-webinar/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200227T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200227T110000
DTSTAMP:20260510T141839
CREATED:20200206T175517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200206T175517Z
UID:32775-1582801200-1582801200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Public Hearing regarding MA overtime for ag workers
DESCRIPTION:SAVE THE DATE: PUBLIC HEARING IN WESTERN MA: regarding overtime pertaining to agricultural and farm work. With appreciation to my colleagues in the valley’s delegation for successfully scheduling this public hearing in our region\, providing direct access to the many stakeholders concerned about this issue. \nIN PERSON: public hearing in western MA is scheduled for: Thursday\, February 27\, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. in the Old Chapel\, UMass Amherst\, MA\, 144 Hicks Way\, Amherst\, MA (parking at UMass Amherst Parking Garage or for handicap parking Lot 64 between Goodell and South College)\n \nIN WRITING: Written testimony is due by March 4 and can be submitted via email to: dlsFeedback@state.ma.us. \nhttps://www.mass.gov/news/notice-of-public-hearings-regarding-minimum-wage-and-overtime-pertaining-to-agricultural-and?new&fbclid=IwAR07VtjJVksCd2ZyLB6SbkbXF_6bSxzW-Z8hk1O-CKqEMSACvW2st7pksTg
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/public-hearing-regarding-ma-overtime-for-ag-workers/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR