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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170323T134915Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170323T134915Z
UID:22891-1490436000-1490443200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Pruning Raspberries & other Bramble Fruit - a Hands-on Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Raspberries are among the favorite fruits grown in home gardens and offer some of the most challenges to gardeners. There are many types of ‘bramble’ fruit including summer red\, yellow or black raspberries\, blackberries\, and fall bearing types of all colors. Each has a somewhat unique growth habit and requires specialized pruning to be most successful. This workshop will provide information on all types of raspberries and an opportunity for hands-on pruning for participants to gain confidence in pruning their own plants at home. You’ll learn about tool maintenance and sharpening\, too. Bring your own tools or use theirs. \nLed by Ms. Sonia Schloemann. \nTo register\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/pruning-raspberries-other-bramble-fruit-a-hands-on-workshop/
LOCATION:Wards Berry Farm\, 614 S. Main Street\, Sharon\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170317T150449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170317T150449Z
UID:22821-1490436000-1490443200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Plant Propagation & Seed Starting Workshop
DESCRIPTION:The Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP) is pleased to announce their first workshop of the season! Learn how to start the season for your farm or garden the right way. We’ll be visiting White Barn Farm\,  a small vegetable farm located in Wrentham\, Mass. The husband-wife farmer team\, Chris and Christy Kantlehner\, use organic practices to supply a CSA\, farmstand\, and restaurant accounts with fresh produce.  White Barn also has a huge plant sale the weekend before Memorial Day every year. Growing seedlings for that very financially significant sale is a major part of early season farmwork at White Barn Farm. After the plant sale\, many of the crops grown for sale are produced by transplant – either with a water wheel transplanter or a paper pot transplanter. We’ll see these tools and learn how they are used. Christy will share her experience and the methods currently used in her greenhouse. \nWhen: Saturday\, March 25\, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM\nWhere: White Barn Farm\,  458 South St\, Wrentham\, MA \nCost:  $5 Beginning Farmers\, $15 SEMAP Members\, $20 General Public \nRegister online at semaponline.org/seedstarting
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/plant-propagation-seed-starting-workshop/
LOCATION:White Barn Farm\, 458 South Street\, Wrentham\, MA\, 02093\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T150000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170310T155050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170310T155213Z
UID:22744-1490432400-1490454000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Flower to Fork: Wild Plants\, Farms\, and Food
DESCRIPTION:What role do native plants and their pollinators play in the stability of our food and other agricultural systems? Join the New England Wild Flower Society for a day-long symposium to discuss the interactions between native plants\, pollinators\, and food crops. Learn how farmers are using native plants to increase their crop production\, what programs are available to growers to help with native plant installation\, and how you can create beautiful gardens that also support pollinators. Registration fee includes lunch. Ten student scholarships are available. Email education@newenglandwild.org for more information. Visit newenglandwild.org/programs to register. \nPresentations\nThe Interaction Between Native Plants\, Pollinators\, and Crop Production\nJoan Milam\, adjunct research fellow\, department of environmental conservation\, University of Massachusetts Amherst \nHow Native Plants Increase our Farm Viability\nJohn Hayden\, owner\, The Farm Between \nUSDA Programs for Insect Conservation\nMichelle Cozine\, conservation planner\, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service \nCreating Pollinator Gardens and Habitat Hedgerows\nRebecca Lindenmeyr\, landscape designer and co-principal\, Linden L.A.N.D. Group \nMembers $60\nNonmembers $65\nStudents $25
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/22744/
LOCATION:Mount Holyoke College\, 50 College Street\, South Hadley\, MA\, 01075\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170325T170000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170210T163307Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170210T163307Z
UID:22286-1490428800-1490461200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:The Art of Aged Sharp Cheese: Making Cheeses of the British Isles
DESCRIPTION:Cost:\nNOFA/MOFGA Member – $100 General Public – $130 \n*add $10 for walk-ins \nDescription: \nLearn the art and craft of making aged sharp cheeses using mesophilic cultures with veteran farmer and cheese artisan Clifford Hatch. Using grass-fed\, pastured milk from his family farm\, Cliff will take you on hands-on journey through all the stages of making favorites like Cheddar and lesser-known hard cheeses like Caerphilly\, Dunlop\, or Wensleydale. \nThis class\, suitable for the beginner and advanced cheese-maker\, will give you a new appreciation for the ancient art of making complex\, nutrient-dense\, and obnoxiously delicious cheese. \nWorkshop space is very limited. Please register ahead of time to secure your space! \nAbout the Instructor: \nClifford Hatch comes from a tradition of New England family farming that reaches back to the early seventeenth century. Cliff grew up on his family’s farm in Granby\, MA. After college\, he obtained culinary training and embarked on a career as Chef de Cuisine\, first at the Deerfield Inn and later at the Rhode Island Country Club. He has been farming in Gill since 1988. \nRegister Online Now or Mail In This Registration Form \nMore Info \nThe farm will provide a simple lunch of bread and cheese. You are welcome to bring something to share (or a bag lunch for yourself if you prefer). \nWear clean\, non-fuzzy clothing and practical footwear that can get wet. Consider wearing layers\, as the cheese room can get quite hot \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here. \nFor questions contact Dan Bensonoff\, education events organizer\, at dan@nofamass.org or 860-716-5122
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/the-art-of-aged-sharp-cheese-making-cheeses-of-the-british-isles/
LOCATION:Unnamed Venue\, 411 Main Road\, Gill\, MA\, 01354\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T190000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170306T202637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170306T202637Z
UID:22672-1490277600-1490295600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Growing the Local Food Market: Mini Conference
DESCRIPTION:Growing the Local Food Market: a mini-conference for Farms\, CSAs and Farmers’ Markets\nCome for an afternoon of networking\, training and resource-sharing. \nThursday\, March 23\, 2:00-7:00 PM\nLenox Community Center\, 65 Walker St\, Lenox MA \nFree attendance. \nAttend the whole day or just one portion. \nClick here to register now! \nSCHEDULE:\n2:00-6:00pm: SNAP Sign Up: drop-in information sessions & registration to become an authorized SNAP retailer; HIP info and sign-up available for Mass farmers \n2:00-3:30pm: Networking Event for farmers and market managers with a focus on marketing \n3:30-5:00pm: HIP Training for farms and farmers’ market managers \n5:00-7:00pm: Annual Farmers’ Market Manager meeting \nDETAILS: \nNetworking Event for Farmers & Farmers’ Market Managers \nJoin your fellow farmers for networking and brainstorming about how to better market your farm and products. We’ll have informal training addressing topics such as: online promotion and social media; building a brand; managing your farmers’ market stand; building customer loyalty; get to know your SNAP customers; and effective customer outreach techniques. \nHIP Training \nHIP – the Healthy Incentives Program – is a statewide program in Massachusetts that will match SNAP purchases of local fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets\, farm stands\, mobile markets and CSAs. Beginning in April\, customers will receive an instant\, dollar-for-dollar match credited to their EBT card\, which can be used at any SNAP retailer for any future SNAP eligible purchase. Berkshire households will need to spend SNAP dollars on fruits and vegetables at a CSA\, farm stand or farmers’ market to earn this HIP incentive. If you are a farmers’ market vendor\, a farm stand\, a CSA farm\, or a market manager\, this training will provide the information you need to implement and process HIP benefits. \n**All farmers’ market vendors who would like to accept HIP should attend and sign up for SNAP: HIP will be processed at individual vendor stands\, rather than through the market managers.** \nFarmers’ Market Manager Meeting \nOur annual Farmers’ Market Manager meeting provides an opportunity for markets from throughout the region to come together to brainstorm ideas and troubleshoot common problems. We’ll discuss effective marketing techniques for your market\, vendor needs\, counting and increasing customers\, and joint efforts to promote markets in the region\, including new initiatives in the works from Berkshire Grown. Bring your questions for the group\, and success stories you’d like to share! If your market is not currently signed up to take SNAP and you would like to\, be sure to come early to attend our SNAP sign-ups\, beginning at 2pm. \nSNAP Sign-Up \nAt this drop-in information session you can get your farm\, farm stand or farmers’ market authorized for SNAP and receive your USDA FNS number the very same day! USDA staff will be on site to walk you through the process and assist with your application. You will also learn about equipment options and about processing SNAP and the new Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) benefit. \nFarmers – documents required:  \nIf you intend on getting an FNS (SNAP retailer authorization) number\, please bring copies of the following documents which will be attached to your application: \nPicture ID (driver’s license or passport).\nSocial Security Card (or other official document with your name and SSN).\nCopy of voided check for bank account you will use to deposit funds. \nNon-profit 501(c)(3) Farmers’ Markets – documents required: \nFarmers Markets operated/sponsored by a non-profit are the ONLY applicants that are not required to submit verification of a Social Security number for corporate officers/board members. \nDocumentation Required: \nCopy of the IRS Determination Letter stating the organization is a 501(c)(3). A (C)(4) and (C)(6) will not be accepted.\nLetter from the sponsoring agency stating that they are sponsoring the farmers market and who they have appointed as their legal representative to operate the farmers market.\nThe application must be signed by a corporate officer or a board member. \nGovernment Owned/Operated Farmers Markets – documents required: \nDocumentation Required: \nCopy of the City/Town IRS EIN/TIN Tax Exempt Letter.\nCity/Town Official must sign the Application Certification Page.\nNo personal information is required or needed.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/growing-the-local-food-market-mini-conference/
LOCATION:Lenox Community Center\, 65 Walker Street\, Lenox\, 01240\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Berkshire Grown":MAILTO:buylocal@berkshiregrown.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T130000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170111T180128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T180128Z
UID:22028-1490270400-1490274000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Enrolling in SNAP - Is It the Right Move for You?
DESCRIPTION:USDA has continued funding through May 2017 to assist direct marketing farmers and farmers markets join the SNAP program by providing free equipment to qualified farmers and farmers markets. The National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs (NAFMNP) has created MarketLink\, an online solution to an expedited application process\, nationally negotiated rates for SNAP\, debit and credit; as well as state-of-the-art equipment\, an iPHone 6\, EMV card reader and blue-tooth connected printer. \nJoining the SNAP program involves a multiple application process that enrolls you as a SNAP retailer\, determines your eligibility for free equipment and then provides the service to accept SNAP\, debit and credit. \nThe Farmers Market Federation of NY will be holding webinars to help direct marketing farmers and market managers understand the MarketLink program and will schedule phone appointments with attendees to complete the application process. The presentations should take approximately 60 minutes for the presentation and question and answers. \nThe webinar is free to join and will help you understand the process and the value of adding SNAP to your farm or market. Register now to reserve your space on the date that best fits your schedule. \nTo register\, Click here for the registration information\, then click on the link for your choice of dates and complete the registration information. Once submitted you will receive a link to the webinar. Save that link! This is how you will access the live webinar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-enrolling-in-snap-is-it-the-right-move-for-you-6/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170323T173000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170315T200329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170315T200329Z
UID:22790-1490256000-1490290200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training
DESCRIPTION:Instructors: Lisa McKeag\, UMass Extension Educator & Michael Botelho\, MDAR Commonwealth Quality Program Director \nCo-sponsored by UMass Extension\, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) and Wegman’s. \nCost is $35 \nREGISTER HERE: https://www.regonline.com/builder/site/?eventid=1968514 \nPlease contact Lisa McKeag at lmckeag@umass.edu or 413-577-3976 for more information \nPrice includes the required PSA Grower Manual ($50 value)\, a Certificate of Course attendance from AFDO ($35 value)\, Certificate of attendance from UMass/MDAR and lunch and refreshments \nParticipants will learn about produce safety best practices\, key parts of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements\, and how these requirements will be enforced in MA through MDAR’s Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP). There will be time for questions and discussion\, so participants should come prepared to share their experiences and produce safety questions. \nThank you to Wegman’s for supplying lunch and refreshments. \nThis program is supported by funds from Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grant no. 2016-70020-25788 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture \nWho Should Attend \nFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule. The PSA Grower Training Course is one way to satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in § 112.22(c) that requires ‘At least one supervisor or responsible party for your farm must have successfully completed food safety training at least equivalent to that received under standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.’ \nWhat to Expect at the PSA Grower Training Course \nThe trainers will spend approximately seven hours of instruction time covering content contained in these seven modules: \n•  Introduction to Produce Safety \n•  Worker Health\, Hygiene\, and Training \n•  Soil Amendments \n•  Wildlife\, Domesticated Animals\, and Land Use \n•  Agricultural Water (Part I: Production Water; Part II: Postharvest Water) \n•  Postharvest Handling and Sanitation \n•  How to Develop a Farm Food Safety Plan \nThe course will provide a foundation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and co-management information\, FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements\, and details on how to develop a farm food safety plan. Individuals who participate in this course are expected to gain a basic understanding of: \n•  Microorganisms relevant to produce safety and where they may be   found on   the farm \n•  How to identify microbial risks\, practices that reduce risks\, and how to   begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm \n•  Parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one \n•  Requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet them. \nAfter attending the entire course\, participants will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies they have completed the training course. To receive an AFDO certificate\, a participant must be present for the entire training and submit the appropriate paperwork to their trainer at the end of the course. \n\n\n\n\nContact’s name:\n\nLisa McKeag\n\n\n\nContact’s phone:\n\n413-577-3976\n\n\n\nContact’s email:\n\nlmckeag@umass.edu
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/produce-safety-alliance-grower-training/
LOCATION:Brigham Hill Community Farm\, 37 Wheeler Road\, North Grafton\, MA\, 01536\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20161201T161148Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170130T163453Z
UID:21728-1490202000-1490214600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: Grant Essentials — Opportunities & Approaches
DESCRIPTION:Grants are great for exploring and expanding new markets\, building alt-energy structures\, and exploring farm viability. Determine if a grant is the right source for you. This presentation will help you understand\, develop\, and submit successful grant applications. We will discuss a wide range of grants as well as a more detailed presentation of SARE and MDAR programs. The Kitchen Garden will talk about their process in applying for and receiving grant funding for various projects. \nPresenters: Melissa Adams of MDAR\, The Kitchen Garden\, Sue Scheufele (SARE)\, CISA staff \nThis is the final in our eight session Winter Workshop series\, Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm \n\n \n\n\n\nRegister for Workshop\n\n\nMarch 22\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDMarch 22\, 2017: non-LH Memeber $18.00 USD\n\n\nEnter name(s) of attendees:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nThe full series:\nCISA invites you to join our eight-workshop series on Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm beginning January 2017. In order to draw a map of the future of your farm\, you need a solid foundation with which to review your past and assess your present. This workshop series will support farm owners and operators in decision making for realistic long-term financial\, operational\, marketing\, and personal goals. Examples in the workshops will be farm related\, but the skills and methodology will be relevant to all businesses. \nParticipation in the whole series is encouraged. You will be eligible for a one-on-one consultation by attending one Business Plan workshop. Attending three workshops gives you the eligibility for an additional one-on-one consultation related to the topic of any workshop being held. Dinner will be served at each session. The cost to attend the series is $90 for Local Hero members\, or $15 for each individual workshop. The non-member fee is $110 for the series\, or $18 for each individual workshop. Register below or contact Stevie Schafenacker at stevie@buylocalfood.org or (413) 665-7100 x27. If cost is a barrier to your participation\, please feel free to contact Stevie to discuss options as we want everyone to be able to get the training they need to effectively operate their business. Scholarships may be available. \nThe first half hour of each workshop will be for food and socializing. Workshops will begin promptly thereafter. \nFunding for CISA’s “The Crossroads: Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future” is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)\, Farm Service Agency under Federal Award Identification No. USDA-FA-MA-6-007\, USDA/National Institute of Food and Agriculture under award 2016-70017-25423\, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service through grant 16FMPPMA0002 and by individual contributors and Local Hero members. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/grant-essentials-opportunities-approaches/
LOCATION:Holyoke Community College Kittredge Center\, Room 303\, 303 Homestead Ave\, Holoyke\, MA\, 01040\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T130000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170316T195828Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170316T200036Z
UID:22802-1490184000-1490187600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Healthy Incentives Program - Informational Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Presented by the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources \nRegister here \nInformational webinar on the Healthy Incentives Program for farmers and market managers. \nJoin the meeting: https://join.me/425-587-159 \nOn a computer\, use any browser. Nothing to download.\nOn a phone or tablet\, launch the join.me app and enter meeting code: 425-587-159 \nJoin the audio conference:\nDial a phone number and enter access code\, or connect via internet. \nBy phone:\nUnited States – Hartford\, CT +1.860.970.0010\nAccess Code 425-587-159# \nBy computer via internet:\nJoin the meeting\, click the phone icon and select ‘Call via internet’. A small download might be required.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/healthy-incentives-program-informational-webinar/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170322T133000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170223T182421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170223T193625Z
UID:22541-1490182200-1490189400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Public Policy Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Learn how public policy is developed at the state level and how to impact decision making by elected officials. While this workshop will focus on food access\, the skills learned will be applicable to any public policy issue. \nFree and open to the public \nBishop Marshall Center at St. Michael’s Cathedral\, 260 State St.\, Springfield *Use Elliot Street Entrance* \nHosted by the Springfield Food Policy Council \nFacilitated by the Massachusetts Public Health Association
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/22541/
LOCATION:St. Michael’s Cathedral  Bishop Marshall Center\, Elliot Street Entrance\, 260 State Street\,\, Springfield\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170321T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170321T190000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170302T152832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170313T212103Z
UID:22638-1490112000-1490122800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Winter Dinner at Barstow's Dairy Farm
DESCRIPTION:POSTPONED to March 21 \nThe first one was so much fun they wanted to do it again! They host their second ever Winter Dinner on Tuesday\, March 14 between 4pm and 7pm. In honor of National Pi Day\, March 14\, or 3.14\, the menu will feature our homemade Chicken Pot Pie\, mashed potatoes\, and for dessert\, your choice of Pie. Plates are $12 each and $8 for kids sized plates. Meals will also be available for takeaway. Full kitchen will be open until 7pm. As with all of Barstow’s special events\, please feel welcome to bring your own adult beverages. This event is family friendly and commuter friendly! Please help spread the word by inviting your friends or sharing our event on Facebook!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/2nd-winter-dinner-at-barstows-dairy-store/
LOCATION:Barstow’s Longview Farm\, 172 Hockanum Road\, Hadley
CATEGORIES:Community Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Barstow's Dairy Store and Bakery":MAILTO:info@barstowslongviewfarm.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170320
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170321
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170315T192518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170315T192633Z
UID:22785-1489968000-1490054399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:APR SARA Grant Deadline
DESCRIPTION:The deadline for the APR program SARA grant (Round 3) is Monday\, March 20. Funding up to $25\,000 may be used to conduct a survey to resolve an APR boundary issue that is of concern to the Department\, restore inactive farmland for active commercial agricultural use\, or project implementation costs associated with resource restoration for expanded agricultural production. \nExamples include clearing vegetation\, applying soil amendments\, reseeding hay fields\, costs for equipment rental\, custom work\, contractors\, and approved materials and equipment to complete a project as cost effectively as possible. Funding may also be used to restore farm resources that have been negatively impacted by flooding\, erosion\, storms\, tornadoes and other natural disasters\, such as clean up\, hiring contractors\, or renting equipment\, purchasing materials\, and other crop land restoration costs. \nResponses must be received at the MDAR Amherst office by 4:00 P.M.\, March 20\, 2017 and all projects must be completed by June 30\, 2017.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/apr-sara-grant-deadline/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170318T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170318T170000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170301T154939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170301T154939Z
UID:22631-1489849200-1489856400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:From Seed to Stomach: An Introduction to Mindful Eating
DESCRIPTION:Certified mindfulness instructor Leslie Smith Frank will offer an introduction to the practice of mindfulness and mindful eating. Mindfulness invites us to use all of our senses when we eat\, which may change our relationship to what is on our plate. \nSharing food they prepare themselves\, participants will practice tuning in to taste\, hunger\, and fullness. By bringing to mind the cultivation and growth of each ingredient\, the experience of sharing a meal can become a rich celebration! \nParticipants are encouraged to make the food from locally grown ingredients whenever possible. A great way to prepare for this event is to do your shopping the morning of the event at the Northampton Winter Farmers’ Market. Ask the farmer questions like the following\, and keep the answers in mind when you prepare and eat the food. \n-Where is your farm?\n-Do you use organic or sustainable farming methods?\n-What other foods do you grow? \nThis is a FREE event\, but you must RSVP to find out the location. \nTo RSVP to this event\, send an email with your name and the names of anyone you are bringing with you\, your phone number\, and what dish you will be making to share at the event to katie@growfoodnorthampton.org \nFrom Seed to Stomach: introduction to mindful eating & potluck is part of Grow Food Northampton’s Seed Series happening this March and April. \nFor more details\, visit growfoodnorthampton.com
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/from-seed-to-stomach-an-introduction-to-mindful-eating/
LOCATION:TBD
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170318T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170319T140000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170214T202354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T202354Z
UID:22374-1489826700-1489932000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Poultry School 2017
DESCRIPTION:Poultry School is back for it’s third year! The two-day conference is on March 18 and 19 at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills\, New York. \nWho: Poultry growers of any skill level\, from backyard flocks to serious pastured poultry farmers. \nWhat: Workshops and walking tours covering a wide range of topics on pasture-raised chicken\, turkeys\, and waterfowl\, plus plenty of time to meet other poultry-minded people\, including dinner and drinks by Blue Hill at Stone Barns. \nProgram Cost:\nFull conference: $150\nSaturday only: $85\nSunday only: $65 \nClick here for more details \nTo put your name on the early registration list\, write to sama@stonebarnscenter.org. \nPoultry School 2017 Schedule
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/poultry-school-2017/
LOCATION:Stone Barns Center\, Pocantico Hills\, NY\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170316T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170316T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170316T171042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170316T171042Z
UID:22799-1489685400-1489696200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:*LOCATION CHANGE* Farmers' Market Manager Forum
DESCRIPTION:**The Forum will be held at the CISA Office\, 1 Sugarloaf Street\, South Deerfield** \nCISA is pleased to invite you and market committee members to our 2017 Farmers’ Market Manager Forum – a great opportunity for stakeholders from across the Pioneer Valley to meet\, harvest fresh ideas\, learn about new programs\, and share market-boosting strategies. \nThis year we will focus on social media\, including email-newsletters\, Facebook\, and Instagram – all tools that are proven to be effective at boosting market visibility. Frank Martinez Nocito will be present to speak about the Healthy Incentive Program (HIP)\, a statewide SNAP incentive program focused on farmers’ markets\, mobile markets\, farm stands\, and CSAs. We will also discuss the Customer Loyalty program\, implemented by many markets in the past season with a demonstrated effectiveness at keeping customers engaged and attracting new ones to the market. \nMarket managers will have the opportunity to sign-up for CISA-assisted printing of rewards cards and signage. \nForum agenda: \n\nOnline communication and market promotion\nHIP – Healthy Incentive Program\nCustomer Loyalty program review\nNetworking/Collaboration\n\nWe look forward to seeing you at the forum. Light dinner will be provided. \nFeel free to contact Innocent or Devon with any questions. Please RSVP to Innocent at 413-665-7100\, by Wednesday\, March 15. \nFunding for this workshop has been provided by the Farmers Market Promotion Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/location-change-farmers-market-manager-forum/
LOCATION:CISA Office\, 1 Sugarloaf Street\, South Deerfield\, MA\, 01373\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170314T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170314T190000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170111T180021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T180021Z
UID:22027-1489514400-1489518000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Enrolling in SNAP - Is It the Right Move for You?
DESCRIPTION:USDA has continued funding through May 2017 to assist direct marketing farmers and farmers markets join the SNAP program by providing free equipment to qualified farmers and farmers markets. The National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs (NAFMNP) has created MarketLink\, an online solution to an expedited application process\, nationally negotiated rates for SNAP\, debit and credit; as well as state-of-the-art equipment\, an iPHone 6\, EMV card reader and blue-tooth connected printer. \nJoining the SNAP program involves a multiple application process that enrolls you as a SNAP retailer\, determines your eligibility for free equipment and then provides the service to accept SNAP\, debit and credit. \nThe Farmers Market Federation of NY will be holding webinars to help direct marketing farmers and market managers understand the MarketLink program and will schedule phone appointments with attendees to complete the application process. The presentations should take approximately 60 minutes for the presentation and question and answers. \nThe webinar is free to join and will help you understand the process and the value of adding SNAP to your farm or market. Register now to reserve your space on the date that best fits your schedule. \nTo register\, Click here for the registration information\, then click on the link for your choice of dates and complete the registration information. Once submitted you will receive a link to the webinar. Save that link! This is how you will access the live webinar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-enrolling-in-snap-is-it-the-right-move-for-you-5/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170312T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170312T133000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20161024T141434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161024T141434Z
UID:21326-1489321800-1489325400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Seminar: Why Buy Local?
DESCRIPTION:Why Shop Local is the brainchild of Jasper Lapienski\, a Northampton resident who has no affiliation with Serio’s Market other than as a customer. Jasper grew up in Amherst and has lived in Northampton since 2009. Jasper has been bringing our community together for a cause ever since\, organizing for peace with the Northampton Committee to Stop the Wars\, the Western Mass Coalition for Palestine\, and Jewish Voice for Peace; supporting (mostly losing) political campaigns as Visibility Coordinator for the Bardsley Campaign Committee and Campaign Manager for the Committee to Elect Blue DuVal; and promoting public transportation as a rider representative on the Franklin Regional Transit Advisory Committee. \nParticipants will be treated to loads of free samples\, demo products\, and special deals and will have the opportunity to participate in raffles and win prizes. Serio’s deli will be open for business and all seminar participants will be offered the Sandwich of the Day for 50% off as well as a menu of various options for lunch\, which will be served in-store after the presentation. For more information on the Why Shop Local seminars or to speak or feature your business at one\, email jasper (insert @ if you’re human) whyshoplocal.org. You may also CLICK HERE to join the seminar series email list. \nMarch 12\nInvesting In Neighbors: REIMAGINING FINANCE
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/seminar-why-buy-local-5/
LOCATION:Serio’s Market\, 65 State Street\, Northampton
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T150000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170223T152313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170223T152313Z
UID:22526-1489237200-1489244400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:SEMAP First Grain Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Where: Plimoth Grist Mill\, 6 Spring Ln\, Plymouth\, MA 02360\nWhen: Saturday\, March 11\, 1-3pm \n\nPlease join us on Saturday\, March 11 from 1-3pm at the Grist Mill in Plymouth\, MA for the first state-wide grain gathering in the 21st Century! \nFarmers\, Millers\, Bakers\, Chefs\, Maltsters\, Brewers and Distillers\, you are invited to the first state-wide grain gathering in the 21st Century! \nThere are already half a dozen producers\, processors and value-adding food visionaries out there\, from the Cape to the Berkshires\, harvesting and offering wheat\, rye\, spelt\, corn and oats. Come hear presentations from them and meet others who want to join in. We are calling on you to support\, bolster\, enlarge\, propagate and otherwise help grow the resurgent local grain economy in Massachusetts. \nTour the Plimoth Grist Mill\, sample 100% locally-grown bread and other goodies\, and help to place a worthy bread basket on the Farm-to-table food movement. \nKeynote: Tristan Noyes\, Executive Director\, The Maine Grain Alliance \nFarmers: Noah Kellerman\, Alprilla Farm\, Essex\, MA; Bill Braun\, Ivory Silo Farm and Seed Project\, Westport\, MA; Ben Wolbach\, Skinny Dip Farm\, Westport\, MA \nMillers: Kim VanWormer and Matt Tavares\, Plimoth Grist Mill\, Plymouth\, MA \nUsers: Jonathan Stevens\, Baker\, Hungry Ghost Bread\, Northampton\, MA; Brenton Mackechnie\, Distiller\, Dirty Water Distillery\, Plymouth\, MA; Paul Nixon\, Brewer\, Independent Fermentations\, Plymouth\, MA; Michael Morway\, Executive Chef\, Granite Links Golf Club\, Quincy\, MA \nThis project is a collaboration between Plimoth Plantation and the Plimoth Grist Mill\, SEMAP\, and Hungry Ghost Bread. \n\nQuestions? Contact Kendra at kmurray@semaponline.org \nClick here to sign up online!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/semap-first-grain-gathering/
LOCATION:Plimoth Grist Mill\, 6 Spring Lane\, Plymouth\, 02360\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T153000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170306T210432Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170306T210432Z
UID:22690-1489235400-1489246200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Backyard Goat Dairy Workshop
DESCRIPTION:“Backyard Goat Dairy”\nSaturday\, March 11th\, 12:30-3:30 PM\nLaughing Dog Farm\, Gill\, MA \nThis is an introductory level class on keeping and managing a small herd of dairy goats for milk\, cheese\, yogurt and educational purposes\, on small acreage farms\, or even a tiny backyard… Participants will experience “barn life”\, socialize with the herd\, handle goat kids\, milk\, and learn the basics of keeping and breeding dairy goats. We’ll cover different goat breeds\, housing\, fencing\, nutrition\, hoof trimming\, worming\, and breeding/birthing basics. Together we will make and sample fresh chèvre with greenhouse greens. Suggested donation: $25-$35. No one turned away. RSVP requested… 413-863-8696
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/backyard-goat-dairy-workshop/
LOCATION:Laughing Dog Farm\, 398 Main Road\, Gill\, MA\, 01354
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T140000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170203T160613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170203T160613Z
UID:22242-1489226400-1489240800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: QuickBooks for Farmers
DESCRIPTION:Join New Entry and Julia Shanks for a practical\, hands-on QuickBooks workshop for farmers! Learn how to: set up a chart of accounts that suits your business\, enter transactions\, track enterprise-specific data\, and generate and interpret farm financial statements. This workshop will be 4 hours long with plenty of brain breaks and time for one-on-one coaching. All participants will be provided with a computer\, QuickBooks software (for workshop use only)\, and snacks. Registration required. Space is limited so reserve your seat now! \nEarly bird tickets available through Feb. 10\, 2017: $12/each \nRegular tickets available starting Feb. 11\, 2017: $17/each \n*Please note that scholarships are available. Please email janel.wright@tufts.edu to inquire. \n\nAbout the teacher: Julia Shanks – chef and entrepreneur — is the Principal at Julia Shanks Food Consulting\, consulting with food businesses and farms\, helping them maximize profits and streamline operations through business planning\, feasibility studies and operational audits. She lectures on sustainable food systems and restaurant accounting\, sits on the advisory board of Future Chefs\, and is the regional leader of Slow Money Boston. Julia has authored two books: The Farmers Market Cookbook and The Farmer’s Office\, both published by New Society. She received her professional training as a chef at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco\, her BA from Hampshire College and an MBA Magna Cum Laude from Babson College.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-quickbooks-for-farmers/
LOCATION:Sackler Building\,  145 Harrison Avenue\, Boston\, MA\, 02111\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170111T184000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T184000Z
UID:22035-1489226400-1489233600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Spring Hive Management for Beekeepers
DESCRIPTION:An in-depth lecture the on spring care of honeybee hives. Focus on managing spring hive population build-up\, feeding\, dividing\, monitoring pests\, protecting the hive\, and\, most importantly\, learning approaches to prevent swarming. Berkshire Botanical Gardens Members $15; Nonmembers $20 \nBerkshire Botanical Garden\n5 West Stockbridge Road\nStockbridge\, MA 01262 \nFor more information visit our website: berkshirebotanical.org \nOr Phone: 413-298-3926 \nOr Email: info@berkshirebotanical.org
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/spring-hive-management-for-beekeepers/
LOCATION:Berkshire Botanical Garden\, 5 West Stockbridge Road\, Stockbridge\, MA 01262
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T150000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170227T205934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170227T205934Z
UID:22613-1489222800-1489244400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Apple Tree Grafting Workshop: Mass Aggie
DESCRIPTION:Mass Aggie Seminars 2017: A Home Garden Series \nApple Tree Grafting – a Hands-on Workshop\nSaturday\, March 11\, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. led by Dr. Wesley Autio\nUMass Cold Spring Orchard\, 391 Sabin St.\, Belchertown\, MA \nMany people do not realize that all apple varieties are reproduced by grafting – they are not grown from seed. For horticultural enthusiasts\, one of the most satisfying techniques to master is grafting. Wes Autio will present a hands-on workshop on ‘bench grafting’ and ‘cleft grafting’ of apple trees. Other grafting techniques will also be discussed. Proper tools and sharpening will be included. All participants in the workshop will graft several of their own apples trees to take home. \nThere will be a break for participants to enjoy a BYO lunch.\nThis workshop will be partially out of doors\, so please dress appropriately for potentially wet\, cold\, and muddy conditions. \nFee: $100. To register\, go to: UMassGarden.com. or mail a check payable to: Mass Aggie Seminars. Attn: Doreen York\, UMass\, 101 French Hall\, Amherst\, MA 1003-9294\nSponsored by: Nourse Farms\, OESCO\,Inc.\, and Adams County Nursery.\nTo view the entire Mass Aggie series\, go to: UMassGarden.com
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/apple-tree-grafting-workshop-mass-aggie/
LOCATION:UMass Cold Spring Orchard\, 391 Sabin St\, Belchertown
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170311T170000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170210T162628Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170210T162628Z
UID:22283-1489219200-1489251600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Introduction to Cheese-Making: Making Soft Cheeses
DESCRIPTION:Cost:\nNOFA/MOFGA Member – $100 General Public – $130 \n*add $10 for walk-ins \nDescription: \nThis all-day\, hands-on workshop is ideal for the beginning cheesemaker. Using fresh grass-fed pastured milk from Upinngil farm\, Cliff Hatch\, veteran farmer and cheese artisan\, will guide you through the process of making a number of simple cheese such as Camembert\, Chevre\, Brie\, and Blue cheese. Along the way\, we’ll talk about the process and history of cheese making and how different cheeses are made. With your palette sharpened and techniques honed\, you’ll be ready to make your own artisan cheese. \nWorkshop space is very limited. Please register ahead of time to secure your space! \nAbout the Instructor: \nClifford Hatch comes from a tradition of New England family farming that reaches back to the early seventeenth century. Cliff grew up on his family’s farm in Granby\, MA. After college\, he obtained culinary training and embarked on a career as Chef de Cuisine\, first at the Deerfield Inn and later at the Rhode Island Country Club. He has been farming in Gill since 1988. \nRegister Online Now or Mail In This Registration Form \nMore Info: \nThe farm will provide a simple lunch of bread and cheese. You are welcome to bring something to share (or a bag lunch for yourself if you prefer). \nWear clean\, non-fuzzy clothing and practical footwear that can get wet. Consider wearing layers\, as the cheese room can get quite hot \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here. \nFor questions contact Dan Bensonoff\, education events organizer\, at dan@nofamass.org or 860-716-5122
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/introduction-to-cheese-making-making-soft-cheeses/
LOCATION:Unnamed Venue\, 411 Main Road\, Gill\, MA\, 01354\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170308T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170308T180000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170223T154057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170223T154110Z
UID:22530-1488988800-1488996000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Bobolink Project
DESCRIPTION:Earn $100 by participating in a 2-hour workshop about managing hayfields for bobolinks.\nWednesday\, March 8\, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.\nUVM Extension Office\, 130 Austine Drive #300\nBrattleboro\, Vermont \nWant to get paid to manage your hayfields for bobolinks and other grassland birds? If you own or manage a hayfield that is 10 acres or more and is habitat for breeding bobolinks\, you may be eligible to participate in a workshop organized by University of Connecticut researchers. \nFor more information and to register\, contact Anwesha Chakrabarti by Monday\, March 6.\nEmail anwesha.chakrabarti@uconn.edu and cc: Stephen.swallow@uconn.edu . Put “Bobolink Project” in the subject line.\nOr call Anwesha at 312-259-1337. \nIf you are interested but you can’t make it to the workshop on March 8\, contact Anwesha for more options. \nThis research is approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) under protocol X15-035. Your participation is completely voluntary.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/bobolink-project-workshop/
LOCATION:University of Vermont Extension Office\, 130 Austine Drive\, Brattleboro\, 05301\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Mass Audubon":MAILTO:bobolinkproject@massaudubon.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170307
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170310
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20161117T203613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161228T223113Z
UID:21631-1488844800-1489103999@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:2017 Harvest New England Conference
DESCRIPTION:The New England State Departments of Agriculture\, in cooperation with agricultural organizations across the region\, graciously invite you to participate as an exhibitor in the upcoming Harvest New England Agricultural Marketing Conference and Trade Show.  Whether you provide a product or service to farmers in New England or have a unique product for a roadside stand\, this is the show for you. Over 800 attendees joined us for our past conference in February 2015. \nGrowers from across the Northeast will convene in scenic Sturbridge\, Massachusetts on Tuesday\, March 7\, through Thursday\, March 9 at the Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center.  Booth set up is on Tuesday\, March 7 from 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm. Trade Show hours are Wednesday\, March 8\, 7:00 am – 6:30 pm\, and Thursday\, March 9\, 7:00 am – 3:15 pm. \nThe conference is sponsored by all six New England State Departments of Agriculture and Harvest New England\, in cooperation with agricultural associations from across the region\, as well as assistance from the USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. \nThis unique marketing conference targets New England growers interested in learning new marketing ideas or fine-tuning strategies for business success. There will be multiple educational and networking opportunities.  The conference schedule will allow specific times for attendees to visit the trade show to maximize your exposure. \nThe Department of Transitional Assistance will also be on hand to help direct-sale retailers sign up to accept SNAP benefits. \nTrade show space is limited; Trade show registration received by December 2 costs $425\, after December 2\, $525.  Non-profit rates are available as well. Details and online registration here. If interested in sponsoring options\, please let us know. \nDownload the save the date and share with your membership\, friends\, and constituents! Registration for attendees will be online soon. Updates will be made here: www.harvestnewengland.org/events/. For questions regarding exhibiting\, contact Rick LeBlanc\, Richard.LeBlanc@state.ma.us\, 617-626-1759.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/2017-harvest-new-england-conference/
LOCATION:Sturbridge Host Hotel\, Sturbridge \, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170306T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170306T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170111T183516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T183516Z
UID:22034-1488821400-1488832200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Growing an Organic Vegetable Garden
DESCRIPTION:Investigate a different vegetable family each week to insure all questions are answered about cultivating these important crop families for the home vegetable gardener. (A four week course starting 3/6/2017) $230 \nBerkshire Botanical Garden\n5 West Stockbridge Road\nStockbridge\, MA 01262 \nFor more information visit our website: berkshirebotanical.org \nOr Phone: 413-298-3926 \nOr Email: info@berkshirebotanical.org
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/growing-an-organic-vegetable-garden/
LOCATION:Berkshire Botanical Garden\, 5 West Stockbridge Road\, Stockbridge\, MA 01262
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170304T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170304T130000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170227T203011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170227T203011Z
UID:22607-1488621600-1488632400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Seed Swap!
DESCRIPTION:We are holding our third annual Seed Swap on Saturday March 4th\, 10 am – 1 pm at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School at 80 Locust St in Northampton. You do not have to bring seeds in order to participate! Please RSVP on the Facebook event page\, or if you don’t use Facebook\, simply join us at the event. \nCome share seeds you have saved from your garden or purchased (optional)\, get seeds to plant in your garden\, attend workshops on seed saving or plant breeding\, and meet other people passionate about creating and maintaining a healthy local food system. If you don’t have seeds to share\, please come learn about seed saving and get some to plant in your garden so you can share seeds next year. \nThe Seed Swap will feature the following activities (times are tentative): \n9:30am to 10:30am: Drop seeds off (if you have some to share). Even better\, drop them off on February 5 at the Winter Market table!\n10:05am to 10:50am: Beginning Seed Saving Workshop with Daniel Botkin of Laughing Dog Farm\n11:00 t0 1:00pm: Take seeds for you 2017 garden!\n11:00am to 11:45am: Indigenous Seed Keeping with Liz Charlebois\, Abenaki basketmaker and agriculturalist\nNoon to 12:45pm: Plant Breeding Workshop with Tevis Robertson-Goldberg of Crabapple Farm\n10am to 1pm (with breaks): Seed Tape Workstation – kids and adults alike can help make “seed tape” with biodegradable toilet paper\, wheat paste\, and carrot seeds that we can plant in our Giving Garden later in the spring \nThanks to our co-sponsors\, Northampton Winter Market and Nuestras Raices\, for helping with publicity\, workshop organizing\, and seed collecting!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/seed-swap-2/
LOCATION:Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School\, 80 Locust Street\, Northampton
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170302T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170302T193000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170227T205447Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170227T205447Z
UID:22611-1488474000-1488483000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Inhabit: A Permaculture Perspective
DESCRIPTION:March 2nd\n5:00-7:30pm\nHasbrouck Laboratory\, Room A126\n666 North Pleasant St\, Amherst MA \nThe film investigates many of today’s ecological challenges and some of the solutions that are being used in the ecological design process called “permaculture.” Permaculture is a new approach to sustainable agriculture\, aiming to create ecosystems that are sustainable and self-sufficient. \nIn collaboration with Sowing Solutions Permaculture Design & Education and the Stockbridge School of Agriculture\, UMass Permaculture presents a free and open to the public screening of the critically acclaimed documentary Inhabit: A Permaculture Perspective. Explore the bright future of regenerative agriculture and communities with us; brief panel discussion to follow. Light refreshments will be served. \nLight refreshments will be served. \nFacebook link
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/inhabit-a-permaculture-perspective/
LOCATION:Hasbrouck Laboratory\, Room A126\, 666 North Pleasant Street\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170302T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170302T140000
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170227T204246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170227T204246Z
UID:22608-1488459600-1488463200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Navigating a Treacherous Landscape: GAP Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Free Webinar\nThursday March 2\, 2017\n1:00- 2:00 PM EST \nNavigating a Treacherous Landscape: A Practitioner’s Guide to GAP Food Safety Certification and the Food Safety Modernization Act (Part II) \n~ Bring your Food Safety\, GAP\, and FSMA questions! ~ \nResource Experts \nLindsay Gilmour\, GAP Food Safety Educator \nJeff Stoltzfus\, Food Safety Educator with Penn State Cooperative Extension \n\nRegister Today \n\nNote: This Coffee Talk is the follow-up to Lindsay Gilmour’s first webinar on navigating the treacherous landscape of food safety. This recording provides excellent framing for further conversation. Please send your questions for Lindsay to yona@chesapeakefoodshed.net\nOverview\nIn this follow up webinar\, Lindsay will be joined by Jeff Stoltzfus\, Food Safety Educator with Penn State Cooperative Extension. They will look at two contrasting farming scenarios and discuss the steps they are taking to comply with customer and FDA requirements and will take questions on GAP Food Safety and FSMA. \nFor produce growers\, now more than ever food safety certification is a major hurdle to entering and staying competitive in the wholesale marketplace. More and more buyers are requiring 3rd party audits and frequently farmers are left to find their own way through a confusing and complicated food safety landscape. Add to this the implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act and you have a perfect recipe for dismay and misinformation. In this webinar we will attempt to demystify the mysterious\, find out what questions farmers and buyers should be asking each other\, and answer some of the burning questions about FSMA and food safety audits: \nWhy produce food safety and why now?\nWhat is GAP certification?\nWhat questions should I ask? – As a farmer or as a buyer\nWhat is a food safety standard and how do I know which one to choose?\nWhen is a 3rd party audit necessary? Who is qualified to provide the audit?\nWhat training do I need?\nWho has to comply with FSMA and what does it take?\nWhat will all this cost me in time and money??\nWho can I trust?
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/navigating-a-treacherous-landscape-gap-webinar/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Chesapeake Food Shed Network":MAILTO:christy@chesapeakefoodshed.net
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170302
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170303
DTSTAMP:20260428T081215
CREATED:20170213T210852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170214T193707Z
UID:22317-1488412800-1488499199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Intro to Beekeeping: BF160
DESCRIPTION:Getting your hive operation off the ground. \nWhether you currently are keeping honey bees\, or are considering adding them to your farm\, a basic understanding of bee biology\, diseases\, pests and setting up your colony for success are essential. \nAn A to Z plan starting with understanding the difference between a drone\, queen and nurse bee\, siting your apiary\, a plan for Varroa mites\, and effective winterizing techniques will help ensure your hive(s) make it through the winter so you can harvest honey the following season. \nThis course\, taught by experienced beekeepers and the NYS Honey Bee Extension Associate will give you real-world experiences paired with academic concepts. \nTarget Audience \nALL LEVELS – This course is geared for those who have plans to start keeping bees within the next 1-3 years\, or who have been keeping honey bees for fewer than three years. Disease and pest issues will focus on the Northeast region of the country\, though others will find much of the content useful to their locale. \nCourse Objectives \nAt the completion of this course\, you will: \nHave an understanding of basic bee biology\nGain management skills to support responsible decision making\nBe able to get your apiary colony through the first years of production\nWebinars \nThe bulk of the course happens on your own time\, with discussions\, readings\, and assignments in MOODLE\, our virtual classroom. To add to the experience\, webinars will be woven into the online interface of the course to allow you to meet on a weekly basis to learn from outside presenters and ask questions to address your farm issues in real time. If you miss one\, they are always recorded and posted for later viewing. Access details will be posted in MOODLE once you have registered and logged in. \nDates \nMarch 2 – April 30\, with Webinars each Thursday evening from 6:30 – 8:00pm EST \nInstructors \nLaura Biasillo is the Agricultural Economic Development Specialist for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County. \nSue Garing is a Master Beekeeper\, member of the Board of Directors (and past president) for the Southern Tier Beekeepers\, as well as on the Board of the Empire State Honey Producers\, as well as owner of Sue Garing Honey & Garlic. \nCourse Outline \nWeek 1: Getting to Know Bees \nTopics covered: Introductions. Overview of our online “campus” (Moodle)\, course outline\, and basic bee biology\, roles and jobs. We’ll discuss how to find a queen bee in your hive\, what a bee is and isn’t\, and finally the importance of having a local experienced beekeeper as your mentor and joining a local bee club. \nWeek 2: Setting Up Your Apiary \nTopics covered: Create a calendar ordering\, installing and getting your bees through the summer. Considering in setting up your apiary. “A year in the apiary” – life cycle. Time commitment. Goals and Hive Management Practices. When to order & from whom? Buying versus raising versus swarming a new queen. Timing and starter feeding. \nWeek 3: Basic Equipment for Your First Year \nTopics covered: What do you really need? Styles of equipment. Expenses. Create a budget. \nWeek 4: Basic Hive Inspection\, Part 1 \nTopics covered: Hive Inspection Protocol. Brood (why is it important and evaluating brood health). Learn to ID honey & pollen storage. Are my bees developing correctly? How much honey do they need to make it through the winter? Do I need a queen excluder? \nWeek 5: Basic Hive Inspection\, Part 2 (What to do when things go wrong) \nTopics covered: Hive Robbers. Swarm. Re-queening. Bad temperament & disease. \nWeek 6: Introduction to Pests & Diseases \nTopics covered: Varroa Mites. Protocol options for common pests & diseases. \nWeek 7: I have honey\, now what? \nTopics covered: Basics of honey harvesting. Packaging\, labeling & storage. What you need to do if you want to sell honey & value-added products. \nWeek 8: Preparing Your Colony for the winter \nTopics covered: Feeding options\, evaluation & timing. Bee biology review. Insulation options. Pest protection. \nCost \nCourse fee is $280. Sign up a month in advance to get a $25 discount on each course\, plus a $50 total discount off registration for 3 or more courses.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/intro-to-beekeeping-bf160/
LOCATION:Cornell University Small Farms Program\, Webinar
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
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