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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170221T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170221T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172248
CREATED:20161201T155950Z
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UID:21724-1487696400-1487709000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: Farm Financing — Credit\, Capital\, and Cash\, Oh My!
DESCRIPTION:Looking for help exploring financing opportunities for your farm? This session will provide information on the range of loan programs and business assistance that farm lenders and service providers offer\, how different lenders work together\, and what they each look for in applicants.  Participants will be invited to take part in brief “speed-dating” meetings with lenders for personalized assistance. \nPresenters: Farm Credit East\, Farm Service Agency\, Equity Trust\, The Carrot Project\, PVGrows \nThis is the fifth 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\nFebruary 21\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDFebruary 21\, 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/farm-financing-credit-capital-and-cash-oh-my/
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:20170221T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170221T190000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172248
CREATED:20170216T193657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170216T193657Z
UID:22469-1487692800-1487703600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Winter Dinner at Barstow's Longview Farm
DESCRIPTION:Looking for an easy hot meal for the whole family?  Join Barstow’s Longview Farm on Tuesday\, February 21 between 4pm and 7pm for their first ever Winter Dinner! The menu will feature their homemade Shepherd’s Pie\, sauteed green beans\, and\, for dessert\, warm Apple Crisp. Plates are $12 each and $8 for kid’s sized plates. \nMeals will be available for takeaway too – call ahead\, pop inside to order\, or stop through the drive-thru. Their whole kitchen will be open until 7pm. And as with all of their special events\, please feel welcome to bring your own adult beverages. This event is family friendly and commuter friendly!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/winter-dinner-at-barstows-longview-farm/
LOCATION:Barstow’s Longview Farm\, 172 Hockanum Road\, Hadley
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170220
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170225
DTSTAMP:20260428T172248
CREATED:20161123T200525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161123T200525Z
UID:21680-1487548800-1487980799@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Little Brook Farm Camp
DESCRIPTION:Little Brook Farm Camp is a children’s educational program that takes place on a small family farm in Sunderland. The farm owner and camp director is a DOE certified educator and Registered Nurse. Children at camp will have the opportunity to learn about livestock and sustainable agriculture. Campers start each day by helping with morning chores\, such as collecting eggs and feeding the animals. Children learn how to interact and relate to the animals\, developing trust and their own self confidence. The February week will focus on lambing and there will be many new lambs born. Our day runs from 9 AM to 3 PM. Campers are ages 6 – 12. Camp fees are $250/week.  We are offering a discount to CISA members this year for the February and April camp weeks of $20 off  per child per week. Call Kristen Whittle at 413-665-3802 or visit us online. Registration form available online or by email.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/little-brook-farm-camp-2/
LOCATION:Little Brook Farm\, 334 Russell Street\, Sunderland\, MA\, 01345\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170219T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170219T140000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172248
CREATED:20170203T154619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170203T154619Z
UID:22237-1487498400-1487512800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Homestead Woodlot Management Workshop with David Cantieni: NOFA
DESCRIPTION:Smart forest management can help you move towards energy independence while also providing additional income. This woodlot management workshop is meant to empower owners of small woodlots to start a management program of their own. \nDavid Cantieni will share his personal experience of living in the woods for the last 30 years and his journey of forest stewardship. He’ll discuss and demonstrate how to do a forest assessment\, with emphasis on species diversity\, canopy openness\, aesthetics\, wildlife habitat\, and timber quality. David will dive into economic considerations of forest management including regional timber markets\, selling cordwood\, and more. There will also be discussion of scale-appropriate tools and technology to aid you in your forestry work. \nThis workshop also includes a hands-on demonstration of some tools of the trade: chainsaws\, chokers\, peavies\, and more. You’ll also get to watch David demonstrate how he bucks up his logs. \n \nAbout the Instructors: \nDavid Cantieni grew up in spending lots of time in the forests of rural Pennsylvania where he and his brother did all those things that country kids must do\, such as cutting down a tree with an ax\, making trails (secret if possible)\, finding dead animals\, and getting lots of poison ivy. In college\, his studies included agriculture and ecology. Ultimately\, he and his partner found 40 acres of ex-pasture\, now forest land\, to build a house on. He’s been sustainably stewarding those woods ever since through lots of time being\, observing\, and reveling in the forest and all it’s aspects. \nRegister Online Now or Mail In This Registration Form \nMore Info \nLimited scholarships are available for beginning farmers (those growing 10 or less years) who are active NOFA/Mass members. To apply please click here. \nCost: NOFA/MOFGA Member – $40\, Non-member – $50 \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/homestead-woodlot-management-workshop-with-david-cantieni-nofa/
LOCATION:David Cantieni’s House\, 105 Hawks Road\, Deerfield\, MA\, 01342\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170217T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170217T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172248
CREATED:20170112T150231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170112T150231Z
UID:22050-1487352600-1487363400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Amherst Food Co-op Membership Event
DESCRIPTION:Mark your calendar! The Amherst Food Co-op is hosting it’s second membership building event\, an evening of music\, food\, and community on Friday\, February 17 from 5:30 to 8:30 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church\, 867 North Pleasant St.\, Amherst. (Doors open at 5:30\, event starts at 6:00) \nAt 230 member-owners and counting\, the Co-op is planning to reach 300 member-owners before spring. At the same time\, the Co-op is raising funds from donors to finance the market feasibility study they need to identify the best location for the market\, to estimate the market’s optimal scale\, and other important information. \nNow more than ever\, this is the time for people to build connections through community. As a community and worker-owned food co-op\, Amherst Food Co-op needs your support to become a reality. Join them in investing in your community. And don’t forget to bring a friend! \nFor more information\, contact the Co-op at amherstfoodcoop@gmail.com
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/amherst-food-co-op-membership-event/
LOCATION:Immanuel Lutheran Church\,\, N. Pleasant Street\,\, N. Amherst\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170216T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170216T210000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161201T154754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170209T142233Z
UID:21722-1487262600-1487278800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:RESCHEDULED: CISA Winter Workshop Series: Growing People — Leadership from the Inside Out
DESCRIPTION:RESCHEDULED: This workshop has been moved to February 16th due to snow. Part 2\, originally scheduled for Feb 16th\, will be rescheduled. \nIn this highly participative workshop\, we will learn some foundations of leadership including what most impacts results\, a powerful process for identifying core values\, four stages of team development and how to clarify roles easily so there’s less confusion\, increased efficiency\, and retention of staff. Coming from a background in organizational development\, Jannie Dziadzio now focuses on her local community\, supporting a number of MA farmers as a consultant and mentor. The last ½ hour will be an opportunity to ask questions related to you and your farm. \nPresenter: Jannie Dziadzio – Facilitator\, Catalyst\, and Consultant \nThis is the third 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\nFebruary 9\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDFebruary 9\, 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/growing-people-leadership-from-the-inside-out/
LOCATION:Northampton Senior Center\, 67 Conz St\, Northampton\, MA\, MA\, 01060\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170216T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170216T130000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170111T175845Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T175845Z
UID:22025-1487246400-1487250000@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-3/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170216T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170216T170000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170216T154830Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170216T155349Z
UID:22455-1487232000-1487264400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Northfield Mount Hermon Farmers' Market Teach-In
DESCRIPTION:What is the Farmers’ Market Teach-In?\nThe purpose of the day is two-fold. The “teach-in” element gets our students thinking about local food: how it’s produced\, distributed\, and valued within the community. Many of our faculty members devote the day to focusing on relevant topics in their area of study; from science to world languages\, arts to history\, and many more. Participating experts — farmers\, agricultural scientists\, chefs\, and local government officials\, among others — visit classes to share their knowledge. \nThe “market” part of the day takes place at the center of campus\, where students\, faculty\, and staff congregate to learn about and purchase locally produced goods such as seedlings\, early vegetable crops\, cheese\, salsa\, honey\, wool\, pollinator products\, and a variety of other items. There are also educational booths teaching visitors about topics such as nutrition\, preservation of agricultural land\, and food justice. Pictures of last year’s Farmers’ Market Teach-In are at this link. \nWhen will the Farmers’ Market Teach-In take place?\nMay 5\, 2017. Guests hosting a booth at the Farmers’ Market Teach-In may arrive as early as 8 am and should have their booths set up by 10:30 am. The official Farmers’ Market is open to NMH classes from 11 am–4 pm\, and is open to the public 2–4 pm. Guest speakers will be matched with appropriate classes\, which begin as early as 8 am and run in 80-minute increments throughout the day. Classes start at 8 am\, 10:10 am\, 11:40 am\, 12:20 pm\, and 2:20 pm. \nWhere is the Farmers’ Market Teach-In? \nThe market will be in the center of campus at 1 Lamplighter Way\, Gill\, Massachusetts. Events and classes will be held throughout the campus. We will send a map to participants closer to the date of the event. \nHow can I be involved? \nThere are numerous ways to participate. We invite you to consider the following: \n\nSell products at the market or host an informational table. The most popular tables are interactive\, offering students an opportunity to try a hands-on activity or sample wares.\nVisit one or more of our classes as a guest speaker.\nBring livestock to campus for market-goers to encounter.\nSuggest an innovative way of connecting students/market attendees to food systems. We are open to your ideas!\n\nTo sign up\, click on this link and fill out the registration form. \nHow much does it cost to participate\, and what do I need to provide for my Farmers’ Market booth?\nParticipation is free. NMH will provide a table with tablecloth\, tent\, chairs\, and electricity (if needed) for your booth. We encourage your booth to be manned by at least two people. If you are selling products\, you will need insurance coverage\, and as a speaker you will need to provide proof of automobile insurance. (Details will be provided in the event contract.) \nHow do students get involved?\nMany classes have been given specific tasks for their visits to the market. Some will have questions to answer\, and this year we will share those questions with you in advance. Some will be interviewing participants to learn more about careers in food systems. Some will shop\, especially for Mother’s Day gifts. NMH students tend to be engaged and curious\, and will be eager to connect with you.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/northfield-mount-hermon-farmers-market-teach-in/
LOCATION:Northfield Mount Hermon\, 1 Lamplighter Way\, Gill\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170214T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170214T153000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170210T170655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170210T170655Z
UID:22291-1487062800-1487086200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Employee Management and Labor Laws
DESCRIPTION:This ​is ​the ​registration ​for ​the ​Employee ​Management ​and ​Labor ​Laws ​class ​of ​UMass ​Vegetable ​Winter ​School\, ​taught ​by ​Kristen ​Wilmer ​(Community ​Involved ​in ​Sustaining ​Agriculture) ​and ​a ​representative ​from ​Murtha ​Cullina ​Attorneys ​at ​law ​who ​specializes ​in ​labor ​law. ​Use ​this ​registration ​if ​you ​want ​to ​register ​for ​this ​class ​individually. ​To ​register ​for ​all ​7 ​classes ​of ​Vegetable ​Winter ​School\, ​please ​register ​for ​the ​”Vegetable ​Winter ​School ​- ​Full ​Program” ​event\, ​at ​regonline.com/vegwinterschool. \nInstructors: Kristen Wilmer (Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture) Frank Diluna (Murtha Cullina Attorneys at Law) and Massachusetts Department of Labor Agriculture Investigators Suzanne George and Patricia Colarossi. \nA Department of Labor (DOL) Investigator will join us in the morning to clarify labor laws in Massachusetts pertaining to agricultural workers. After they leave\, get an informative presentation and ask questions of Frank Diluna a seasoned agricultural lawyer\, and finally\, work with Kristen Wilmer from CISA to develop tools such as an Employee Handbook and improve communication strategies to fit the needs of your employees. \nRegistration: www.regonline.com/vegwinterschoollabor\n(413) 577-3976
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/employee-management-and-labor-laws/
LOCATION:Brigham Hill Community Farm\, 37 Wheeler Road\, Grafton\, MA\, 01536\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170212T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170212T133000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161024T141147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161024T141147Z
UID:21325-1486902600-1486906200@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. \nFebruary 12\nLocal Beginnings: BUILDING A BUSINESS IN NORTHAMPTON
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/seminar-why-buy-local-4/
LOCATION:Serio’s Market\, 65 State Street\, Northampton
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170209T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170209T200000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170118T174440Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170118T174440Z
UID:22088-1486663200-1486670400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Winter Housing for Poultry
DESCRIPTION:Do you have questions about overwintering your birds? Please join the Farm Animal Concerns Trust (FACT) on Thursday\, February 9 @ 6pm EST! Nicholas Choate-Batchelder of Midnight Sun Farm\, and Alex Needham of Radical Root Farm will be presenting. Both farmers have years of experience caring for birds during the harsh winter season. >> Register
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-winter-housing-for-poultry/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170208T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170208T170000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170111T231938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T231938Z
UID:22048-1486544400-1486573200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Food Product Development Considerations: Beyond the Concept
DESCRIPTION:The Franklin County Community Development Corporation is excited to offer a unique opportunity for those starting\, or interesting in starting\, food businesses. \nProduct Development Considerations: Beyond the Concept will be held at the CDC in Greenfield\, Massachusetts on February 8th  from 9am-5pm. \nThis class\, taught by Amanda Kinchla M.S.\, Food Science Extension Specialist at UMass Amherst\, will cover everything from food safety and risk management\, establishing processes and controls\, labeling and regulations\, as well as financial considerations. Usually a $500-$600 course\, we are offering it for $200\, lunch included. \nRegister Here
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/food-product-development-considerations-beyond-the-concept/
LOCATION:Franklin County CDC Food Processing Center\, 324 Wells Street\, Greenfield\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170207T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170207T130000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170111T175741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T175748Z
UID:22024-1486468800-1486472400@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-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170207T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170207T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170123T205456Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170123T205521Z
UID:22120-1486454400-1486468800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Green Industry Career Fair
DESCRIPTION:What: Green Industry Career Fair \nWhere: Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center\, Sturbridge\, MA \nWhen: Tuesday\, February 7\, 2017 ~ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM \nCost: It’s FREE but pre-registration is required \nWho should attend: those looking for a career in Environmental Horticulture! The MNLA Green Industry Career Fair is where landscape\, nursery and greenhouse companies will connect with individuals looking for jobs in the green industry. \nWho will job seekers meet at the Career Fair?  Landscape\, nursery and greenhouse companies will be on hand to talk with job seekers about a wide variety of jobs. The industry needs irrigation technicians\, project managers\, foremen\, salespeople\, managers and supervisors\, horticulturists and licensed applicators\, landscape designers\, equipment and fleet mechanics\, people with CAD experience and laborers. Green industry companies have offices and need support staff on their teams\, too.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/22120/
LOCATION:Sturbridge Host Hotel\, Sturbridge \, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170206T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170206T170000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161228T180425Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161228T180425Z
UID:21908-1486373400-1486400400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Dialing in Your High Tunnel for Less Work\, Greater Yields\, and Higher Profits
DESCRIPTION:Cost:  NOFA/MOFGA Member – $75 Non-member – $95 \n\nAn Intensive On Innovative Management Tools for Growers Using Heated and Unheated High Tunnels \nLunch option available for additional $10 or bring your own \nLimited scholarships are available for beginning farmers (those growing 10 or less years) who are active NOFA/Mass members. To apply please click here. \nDescription: \nHigh tunnels\, hoop houses\, and greenhouses are one of the best tools growers of the northeast have to significantly increase their production\, maintain a year-round market\, and boost their bottom line. With proper management\, a high tunnel investment that can pay for itself in just one or two seasons. Presenters Andrew Mefferd and Michael Kilpatrick\, both veteran organic farmers from Northeast have worked for years to optimize the use of this simple but powerful tool for other farmers. \nThis all-day interactive intensive\, ideal for the intermediate or advanced grower\,  is intended to bring your management of tunnels to the next level. Whether you’re grappling with questions about when and how to heat your tunnel\, how to push your season extension further\, which varietals are worth growing\, or how to optimize crop successions for year-round production\, this intensive will provide you insight and inspiration for the next growing season and beyond. \nIntensive topics include: \n\nWhich Crops are worth growing and why?\nIrrigation\, plastic\, tech tools\, and infrastructure options\nHow to push the season even further\nOn-site High Tunnel visit and audit at Stonehill College Farm\nOptimizing crop successions for maximum yield\nHeating: when\, why\, how\, and how much?\nAdapting the lessons of the most successful commercial greenhouse growers for organic/biological systems\nNRCS representative to answer questions on EQIP high tunnel grants\nGuest presenters highlighting their innovative practices\n\nAbout the Instructors: \nMichael Kilpatrick is a farmer\, presenter\, and blogger who lives to help farmers apply business principles and best practices to farming and agriculture. He has managed a large certified organic farm\, presented at farm and agricultural conferences\, written a free e-book on winter production  and consulted with farmers around the country. He currently resides in Southwestern Ohio. \nAndrew Mefferd has a book about protected growing coming out in February 2017 from Chelsea Green Publishing called The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook: Organic Vegetable Production Using Protected Culture.  He is the editor of Growing for Market Magazine\, and has a MOFGA-certified organic farm in central Maine. For seven years\, he worked as the greenhouse specialist in the research department at Johnny’s Selected Seeds. \nRegister Online Now or Mail In This Registration Form \nMore Info \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here. \nFor more information contact Dan Bensonoff\, education events organizer\, at dan@nofamass.org or 860-716-5122
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/dialing-in-your-high-tunnel-for-less-work-greater-yields-and-higher-profits/
LOCATION:Stonehill College\, 320 Washington Street\, North Easton\, MA\, 02357\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170204T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170204T210000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170109T201124Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170109T201124Z
UID:21995-1486233000-1486242000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Film Screening: INHABIT
DESCRIPTION:You’re invited to join Nutwood Farm on Saturday\, February 4th at 6:30pm at the Cummington Community House for a free community screening of INHABIT: A Permaculture Perspective. \nBeautiful and poignant\, INHABIT features the voices and visions of social and ecological changemakers in the Northeast and beyond. The film presents a sweeping vision of “a new way of being and relating to the Earth\, a reminder that humans are capable of being forces of planetary healing.” \nBefore the film\, Nutwood Farm farmers will share their current plans to grow hazelnuts and other perennial staple foods on their farm\, along with their own 3-minute video and details about the launch of their crowdfunding campaign. How can we all find ways to inhabit our earth\, our community\, and our place more fully? What could we accomplish if we all work together? \nAdmission is free and open to all. Refreshments will be served. The event begins at 6:30pm at the Cummington Community House\, 33 Main Sreet\, Cummington. Childcare will also be provided during the film screening. \nFor more information please call Sara at 413-824-1840 or email nutwoodfarmers@gmail.com
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/film-screening-inhabit/
LOCATION:Cummington Community House\, 33 Main Street
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170204T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170204T143000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170123T210702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170123T210702Z
UID:22122-1486213200-1486218600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Pollinate Your Garden! Understand Pollinators and How to Create Native Plant Habitats for Them
DESCRIPTION:Join Elizabeth Farnsworth\, Senior Research Ecologist with New England Wild Flower Society\, for a lecture and discussion about how to attract pollinators to your garden. The talk will identify the major pollinators of plants in our region and explore how different pollinators interact with different shapes\, sizes\, and colors of flowers. Learn how to create safe habitats for pollinators\, and how to choose pesticide-free\, seed-grown plants that will give you–and many other species–joy for years to come. \nElizabeth Farnsworth is Senior Research Ecologist with the New England Wild Flower Society\, and a biologist\, educator\, and scientific illustrator. She previously coordinated planning for the conservation and management of more than 100 species of rare plants. She is a member of the graduate faculties of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and the University of Rhode Island\, and has taught at Smith College\, Hampshire College\, and the Conway School of Landscape Design. Elizabeth has been a scientific consultant to the National Park Service\, The Trustees of Reservations\, U. S. Forest Service\, Massachusetts and Connecticut Natural Heritage Programs\, United Nations\, and many other organizations. \nFor more information: Roger Conant\, 413.256.4827
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-pollinate-your-garden-understand-pollinators-and-how-to-create-native-plant-habitats-for-them/
LOCATION:Pelham Library\, 2 South Valley Road\, Pelham\, MA\, 01002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170204T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170204T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170111T183200Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T183200Z
UID:22032-1486202400-1486209600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Unusual Edible Fruits for the New England Landscape
DESCRIPTION:Advice for both experienced orchardists and novices alike on the practice of growing pawpaws\, persimmons\, quince\, Asian pears\, elderberries\, and more. Exploring everything from basic cultivation to pest and disease issues. Berkshire Botanical Gardens Members $20; Nonmembers $25 \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/unusual-edible-fruits-for-the-new-england-landscape/
LOCATION:Berkshire Botanical Garden\, 5 West Stockbridge Road\, Stockbridge\, MA 01262
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170202T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170202T140000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170118T174224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170118T175736Z
UID:22086-1486036800-1486044000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Understanding Farm Animal Welfare Certifications
DESCRIPTION:Are you considering Animal Welfare Approved\, Certified Humane\, and Global Animal Partnership certification for your farm? Join the Farm Animal Concerns Trust (FACT) on February 2 @ 12 noon EST to learn more. Guest presenters from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and Vermont Law School will walk participants through the process of becoming welfare-certified and discuss funding options available to farmers interested in certification. >>Register
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-understanding-farm-animal-welfare-certifications/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170201T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170201T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161201T154039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170130T163342Z
UID:21721-1485968400-1485981000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: The Farm Business Plan — Making it Work for You
DESCRIPTION:There are central elements of a business plan that you take away and continue to change daily\, weekly\, or seasonally. Any system of record-keeping and operations you develop to get you through the first few years of operations need to be reviewed and updated as your farm changes. In this workshop we will break down some of these key parts and learn how to identify your resources\, constraints\, and management strategies for meeting your farms’ goals and its future. We will emphasize the financial aspects of planning and projection and address how this\, as well as all business aspects\, relates to each other. Attending this workshop makes you eligible for one-on-one consultations for business plan support. \nPresenters: Dorothy Suput of The Carrot Project\, Caroline Pam of The Kitchen Garden\, and Julia Shanks\, Julia Shanks Food Consulting \nThis is the second 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\nFebruary 1\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDFebruary 1\, 2017: non-LH Memeber $18.00 USD\n\n\nEnter name(s) of attendees:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nThe full series: \nCISA invites you to join our eight-workshop series on Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm beginning January 2017. In order to draw a map of the future of your farm\, you need a solid foundation with which to review your past and assess your present. This workshop series will support farm owners and operators in decision making for realistic long-term financial\, operational\, marketing\, and personal goals. Examples in the workshops will be farm related\, but the skills and methodology will be relevant to all businesses. \nParticipation in the whole series is encouraged. You will be eligible for a one-on-one consultation by attending one Business Plan workshop. Attending three workshops gives you the eligibility for an additional one-on-one consultation related to the topic of any workshop being held. Dinner will be served at each session. The cost to attend the series is $90 for Local Hero members\, or $15 for each individual workshop. The non-member fee is $110 for the series\, or $18 for each individual workshop. Register below or contact Stevie Schafenacker at stevie@buylocalfood.org or (413) 665-7100 x27. If cost is a barrier to your participation\, please feel free to contact Stevie to discuss options as we want everyone to be able to get the training they need to effectively operate their business. Scholarships may be available. \nThe first half hour of each workshop will be for food and socializing. Workshops will begin promptly thereafter. \nFunding for CISA’s “The Crossroads: Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future” is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)\, Farm Service Agency under Federal Award Identification No. USDA-FA-MA-6-007\, USDA/National Institute of Food and Agriculture under award 2016-70017-25423\, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service through grant 16FMPPMA0002 and by individual contributors and Local Hero members. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/the-farm-business-plan-making-it-work-for-you/
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:20170201T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170201T130000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170111T175633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170111T180148Z
UID:22022-1485950400-1485954000@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/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170129T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170129T210000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170123T213539Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170123T213559Z
UID:22126-1485716400-1485723600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Farm Holler!
DESCRIPTION:PARLOR SESSION No. 2: Edith & Bennett And The Gawler Family Band // FARM HOLLER \n$12 advance / $15 door\, Students $8 // FARMERS ARE FREE [by phone or at the door] (413) 923-2800 \nTickets on sale 12/26 at 10am. \nMusicians will be singing and teaching work songs & field hollers from around the world. The show is FREE FOR FARMERS\, there is soup provided by Foxtown Farms in Montague\, pastries from Pie Bar in Florence and more. Sure to be a fun\, cozy and spirit-warming evening in the midst of this cold winter \nEdith & Bennett’s show and the Sing they lead\, after it\,  have packed the Parlor Room year after year. We’re thrilled to announce E&B are bringing the entire Gawler Family Band with them for the first time. \nEdith Gawler grew up a member of the GFB\, Maine’s legendary troupe. She plays a wicked banjo\, fiddle\, and upright bass. Bennett Konesni is a worksong scholar\, Mainer\, and co-founder of Sylvester Manor\, the 243-acre “singing farm” on Shelter Island\, N.Y.\, where he teaches worksongs to the farm crew and directs the annual fall festival “Plant & Sing. Together Edith & Bennett perform around the world for the U.S. State Department as special envoys in traditional music. The Gawler Family Band is John and Ellen Gawler and their daughters Molly\, aforementioned Edith\, and Elsie — and lately Bennett Konesni as well. The Gawlers are known for their extensive collection of dance tunes in the Scots-Irish and French Canadian traditions — a collection that fuels dances across the Great State of Maine and beyond — but the family’s repertoire is extensive and surprising and its presence on any given night has the effect of a raging bonfire in the dead of winter. \nwww.edithandbennett.com\nwww.facebook.com/GawlerFamilyBand
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farm-holler/
LOCATION:The Parlor Room\, 32 Masonic Street\, Northampton\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170128T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170128T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20170106T160704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170106T160704Z
UID:21988-1485597600-1485604800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Your Land\, Your Legacy: An Introduction to Estate Planning and Land Protection
DESCRIPTION:You care about your land\, so come and learn how to protect it into the future! \nYou are invited to attend this free landowner workshop that will provide some basic guidance\, information\, and inspiration on options available to you to manage and care for your land today\, and in the future. \nThis program will be led by Mark Wamsley of Kestrel Land Trust\, Fletcher Clark of Department of Conservation and Recreation Service Forester\, Lisa Hayden of New England Forestry Foundation\, and Attorney Elizabeth Wroblicka of Etheredge and Steuer\, P.C. \nLight refreshments will be provided. Space is limited\, so register today! \nCo-sponsored by MassConn Sustainable Forest Partnership\, MA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation\, & the U.S. Forest Service.\n \nLearn More & Register Now >>
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/your-land-your-legacy-an-introduction-to-estate-planning-and-land-protection/
LOCATION:Belchertown Town Hall\, 1 South Main Street\, Belchertown\, MA\, 01007\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170128T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170128T170000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161228T170144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161228T170217Z
UID:21905-1485592200-1485622800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Deepening Roots\, Growing Success Business Training - Saturday Intensive
DESCRIPTION:The Carrot Project is excited to announce Deepening Roots\, Growing Success\, a business training program for current or aspiring urban farmers and locally-sourced food processing business operators. Training is open to ALL\, not just Boston residents. \nThe training program will kick off with a Saturday Intensive Crash Introduction to the world of growing\, sourcing\, and processing local foods. Local experts and business leaders will present on panel discussions to help introduce you to the local food landscape. Then\, 8 Monday evening sessions will provide participants with in-depth business expertise to help launch and develop their business models\, also presented by local experts and business leaders. \nWhen: \n\nJanuary 28\, 2017 from 8:30am-5:00pm: Saturday Intensive Crash Introduction\nJanuary 30 – March 20\, 2017 from 6:00pm-9:00pm: 8 Monday Evening Sessions\n\nWhere: \n\nHibernian Hall Ballroom and Conference Room\, 184 Dudley Street\, Roxbury\, MA\n\nCost: \n\n$50 for all 9 sessions\, including Saturday Intensive OR \n\n\n$10 for the Saturday Intensive session ONLY OR \n\n\n$40 for 8 Monday Evening Training Sessions\n\nMore Information and Full Program \nREGISTER HERE!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/deepening-roots-growing-success-business-training-saturday-intensive/
LOCATION:Hibernian Hall Ballroom and Conference Room\, 184 Dudley Street\, Roxbury\, MA\, 02119\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170125T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170125T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161201T153611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161221T231145Z
UID:21720-1485363600-1485376200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: The Farm Business Plan — A Narrative for Your Values\, Goals\, and Success
DESCRIPTION:Define where you really want to be in 3-5 years. Organize your thoughts to produce the farm life and business you want. Give direction and confidence in moving forward. The business plan is your farm’s goals and values through a story of investments\, operations\, finances\, and marketing channels. In this workshop we will give you the tools to build that narrative by identifying the critical elements of a plan for operational\, financial\, and/or marketing purposes. We will also address how to turn your business plan into an action plan. For farmers who may have some pieces to the puzzle but do not currently have a formal plan. Attending this workshop makes you eligible for one-on-one consultations for business plan support. \nPresenter: Bill Bean of Green Planning and Coaching and Joanie Walker of Walker Farm at Whortleberry Hill \n\n \n\n\n\nRegister for Workshop\n\n\nJanuary 25\, 2017: LH Member $15.00 USDJanuary 25\, 2017: non-LH Memeber $18.00 USDWinter Workshop series- LH member $90.00 USDWinter Workshop series- non-LH member $110.00 USD\n\n\nEnter name(s) of attendees:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nThe full series: \nCISA invites you to join our eight-workshop series on Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future: Settings Goals for the Success and Sustainability of Your Farm beginning January 2017. In order to draw a map of the future of your farm\, you need a solid foundation with which to review your past and assess your present. This workshop series will support farm owners and operators in decision making for realistic long-term financial\, operational\, marketing\, and personal goals. Examples in the workshops will be farm related\, but the skills and methodology will be relevant to all businesses. \nParticipation in the whole series is encouraged. You will be eligible for a one-on-one consultation by attending one Business Plan workshop. Attending three workshops gives you the eligibility for an additional one-on-one consultation related to the topic of any workshop being held. Dinner will be served at each session. The cost to attend the series is $90 for Local Hero members\, or $15 for each individual workshop. The non-member fee is $110 for the series\, or $18 for each individual workshop. Register below or contact Stevie Schafenacker at stevie@buylocalfood.org or (413) 665-7100 x27. If cost is a barrier to your participation\, please feel free to contact Stevie to discuss options as we want everyone to be able to get the training they need to effectively operate their business. Scholarships may be available. \nThe first half hour of each workshop will be for food and socializing. Workshops will begin promptly thereafter. \nFunding for CISA’s “The Crossroads: Mapping Out Your Farm’s Future” is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)\, Farm Service Agency under Federal Award Identification No. USDA-FA-MA-6-007\, USDA/National Institute of Food and Agriculture under award 2016-70017-25423\, USDA Agricultural Marketing Service through grant 16FMPPMA0002 and by individual contributors and Local Hero members. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/the-farm-business-plan-a-narrative-for-your-values-goals-and-success/
LOCATION:Holyoke Community College Kittredge Center\, Room 303\, 303 Homestead Ave\, Holoyke\, MA\, 01040\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170114
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170115
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161031T202856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161031T203016Z
UID:21403-1484352000-1484438399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:30th Annual NOFA/Mass Winter Conference
DESCRIPTION:You know that once upon a time all food was organic – that eating organic isn’t a trend\, but a return to tradition. That’s why the NOFA/Mass Winter Conference on January 14\, 2017 at Worcester State University is a smart choice for you. \nDiscover our program of adult\, teen and children’s courses! Our full\, one-day slate of 70 workshops will help in your quest to learn about nutrition\, gardening\, landscaping\, organic farming\, homesteading\, food justice\, DIY time and money saving projects and soil/human/animal health. \nSign up for the all-day intensive – a deep dive into no-till farming. Paul and Elizabeth Kaiser from Singing Frogs Farm co-present ecologically diverse farming techniques that have led them to years of successful food production and a sustainable livelihood. They are on a mission to help you avoid the mistakes they made during the learning process and support your successful no-till operation. \nComplement your winter studies with all that the Winter Conference NOFA/MASS has to offer: workshops on many topics with engaging presenters\, excellent trade show vendors\, amazing lunch and dinner\, fascinating films\, and plenty of conversation to be had amongst 100s of farmers\, gardeners and activists working to create a more organic friendly world! Scholarships are available! Apply or recommend a friend. \nRegistration is now open (and includes an amazing organic lunch)!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/30th-annual-nofamass-winter-conference/
LOCATION:Worcester State University\, 486 Chandler St.\, Worcester\, MA\, 01602\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20170111T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20170111T203000
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161201T164747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161201T164747Z
UID:21734-1484157600-1484166600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Farm to Table Cooking — Winter Vegetables
DESCRIPTION:Do you ever run out of ideas for cooking with winter vegetables like beets\, carrots\, squash\, turnips and celeriac? Many of our local farms grow and store vegetables so they are abundant throughout the winter months\, but home cooks sometimes tire of them. From soups to souffles\, to hearty salads and baked treats\, the possibilities for using local produce through the winter are endless. \nUsing recipes that are simple\, delicious and easy to adapt for whatever ingredients you have on hand\, we will prepare a range of dishes suitable for various diets (vegetarian\, vegan\, and gluten free variations provided). We will also go over a few cooking basics like knife skills\, preparing locally grown dried beans and grains\, and menu planning. \nThis series of four classes is being taught by Molly Merrett – former farmer\, passionate cook and the chef and owner of Beets & Barley Catering. Classes meet for two and a half hours once per week for four weeks. \nSign up here
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farm-to-table-cooking-winter-vegetables/
LOCATION:Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School\, 80 Locust Street\, Northampton
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170111
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170112
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20161121T210129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161121T210129Z
UID:21661-1484092800-1484179199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:'The Farmer's Edge' Online Business Course
DESCRIPTION:Julia Shanks Food Consulting offering a new program for beginning and experienced farmers… The Farmer’s Edge. This is a year-long course designed to give farmers the skills and tools needed to cultivate financially sustainable businesses. Whether you struggle to understand the economics of your business or just want to increase your farm’s profitability\, this course is for you! \nGroup sessions begin in January (second Wednesday of the month) and meet on-line for 2 hours each month. The first hour is devoted to a specific business topic\, such as QuickBooks or Cash Flow Budgeting. The second hour is an open discussion for participants to ask specific questions about their businesses. This “consulting collective” combines the benefits of a business workshop and one-on-one technical assistance\, with the added value of peer-learning. \nAt the end of the year participants will have: \n\nComprehensive bookkeeping systems designed to help them manage your business\nA cash flow budget and the tools to make sure they stay on track\nSystems for understanding all the costs in their business\nA strategy for how to grow their business profitability in the coming years\nFinancial analysis to decide where to focus their business\n\nTopics include: \n\nQuickBooks set-up and maintenance\nSystems for tracking revenue and expenses (so you can truly understand the profitability of all your products)\nManaging Cash Flow\nAnalyzing profitability and evaluating ways to improve it.\nCreating cash flow budget for coming years.\nEvaluating growth and business investment opportunities.\n\nThis “consulting collective” combines the benefits of a business workshop and one-on-one technical assistance\, with the added value of peer-learning: \n\nGet the business support you need\, when you need it\, as challenges arise.\nCut travel costs and save time by meeting online.\nSessions are recorded\, so you can catch-up and re-listen later.\nLearn from your peers AND get one-on-one consulting.\n\nSpace is limited; reserve your spot now! \nThe group meets on the second Wednesday of each month.  There will be two sessions: in the morning (10am – 12n ET) and afternoon (3pm – 5pm ET).  During peak growing season\, sessions may be shorter to accommodate farmer schedules.  Extra sessions will be added in November and December as needed to ensure all participants get the value and tools they need. \nRegister before December 15\, 2016 and receive $100 off the year-long membership price. Just enter in the discount code: TFE-Early\nTentative Schedule of Topics \n(subject to change based on participants’ needs) \nJanuary 11\, 2017 (Wednesday): Business Basics and Accounting Overview \nFebruary 8\, 2017 (Wednesday): Getting Started in QuickBooks \nMarch 7\, 2017 (Tuesday): QuickBooks Part 2\, Review day to day transactions\, and systems for using QB to manage cash. Creating a budget \nApril 12\, 2017 (Wednesday): Crop Profitability: Tracking expenses to better understand the cost of production \nMay 10\, 2017 (Wednesday): Sales and Inventory: Systems for tracking sales and understanding which sales channels are most profitable \nJune 14\, 2017 (Wednesday): Managing Cash in Lean Times \nJuly 12\, 2017 (Wednesday): Tools to streamline bookkeeping systems \nAugust 9\, 2017 (Wednesday) : Comparing Sales Projections to Actuals\, are you meeting your goals? \nSeptember 13\, 2017 (Wednesday): How to Read Financial Statements \nOctober 11\, 2017 (Wednesday): Channel and Crop Profitability Analysis \nNovember 8\, 2017 (Wednesday): Preparing for loans: deciding if a loan makes sense\, how much you can afford and preparing the paperwork \nDecember 13\, 2017 (Wednesday): Creating Cash Flow Projections for the coming year \nFind more information and register here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/the-farmers-edge-online-business-course/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170110
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170301
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20160929T144201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160929T144201Z
UID:21063-1484006400-1488326399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Winter Vegetable School
DESCRIPTION:Attention Growers! Leave winter school ready for a Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP) audit and the peace of mind that you are prepared to handle the requirements of: the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)\, EPA Worker Protection Standards (WPS)\, Nutrient Management Regulations\, and changes in Employment Law.  Get up to date on research and IPM practices important to vegetable growers and gain a competitive advantage in a heavily regulated market.  Each farm will get detailed support in developing food safety and nutrient management plans\, training employees in WPS\, developing standard operating procedures compliant with regulations\, and preparing an employee handbook and a whole farm IPM plan. This course is designed for farm owners\, managers and employees.\nClick here for more information. \nSessions:\nTuesday\, January 10\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\n\nTuesday\, January 17\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, January 24\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, January 31\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 7\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 14\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 21\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm\nTuesday\, February 28\, 2017 – 9:00am to 3:30pm
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/winter-vegetable-school/
LOCATION:TBD
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170109
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170112
DTSTAMP:20260428T172249
CREATED:20160929T143943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160929T143943Z
UID:21062-1483920000-1484179199@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:FSPCA Preventive Controls for Human Food Certification Training
DESCRIPTION:The ​Current ​Good ​Manufacturing ​Practice\, ​Hazard ​Analysis\, ​and ​ Risk-based ​Preventive ​Controls ​for ​Human ​Food ​FDA ​regulation ​is  ​intended ​to ​ensure ​safe ​manufacturing/processing\, ​packing ​and ​ holding ​of ​food ​products ​for ​human ​consumption ​in ​the ​United ​ States. ​The ​regulation ​requires ​that ​certain ​activities ​must ​be  ​completed ​by ​a ​“preventive ​controls ​qualified ​individual” ​who ​ has ​“successfully ​completed ​training ​in ​the ​development ​and ​ application ​of ​risk-based ​preventive ​controls.” ​This ​course ​ developed ​by ​the ​FSPCA ​is ​the ​“standardized ​curriculum” ​ recognized ​by ​FDA; ​successfully ​completing ​this ​course ​is ​one ​ way ​to ​meet ​the ​requirements ​for ​a ​“preventive ​controls ​ qualified ​individual.” ​To ​complete ​the ​course\, ​a ​participant ​ must ​be ​present ​for ​the ​entire ​workshop ​and ​participate ​in ​ the ​exercises.\nClick here to register!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/fspca-preventive-controls-for-human-food-certification-training/
LOCATION:UMass Amherst\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
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END:VCALENDAR