BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture - ECPv6.15.15//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20140309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20141102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20150308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20151101T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20160313T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20161106T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150322T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150322T160000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T185942Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150317T190438Z
UID:13610-1427032800-1427040000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Sustainability Sunday Workshop Series: Play a Local Board Game with Gabor Lukacs
DESCRIPTION:Play a Local Board Game with Gabor Lukacs: Growing Resilient/Growing Resilience.  Learn about building community and increasing your resilience by playing a board game designed right here in Amherst. During the course of the game we will learn about events triggering changes which may complicate our lives but will simplify the structure of society. We also gain experience on how to create a community which has a better chance helping us deal with those changes.  Registration Required.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/sustainability-sunday-workshop-series/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150325T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150325T210000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20141119T212445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150316T231545Z
UID:12230-1427306400-1427317200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Branding Communications Curbside 1x1 Final Session
DESCRIPTION:Final session of the winter marketing workshop series. Presenters will be available to meet with attendees through a “sidewalk” café type setting where presenters each have their own table and attendees rotate through presenters to ask specific questions\, follow up or get feedback on aspects of their own marketing plan. For participants who enrolled in the whole series\, this session will allow participants to sign up for additional limited one-on-one support to begin to implement a marketing plan. Dinner will be provided; please RSVP by Monday March 23. \nLocal Hero member cost for the workshops is $80 for the complete series or $15 for individual sessions. Non-Local Hero rates are $100 for the complete series or $18 per individual session. \nThis material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2012-49200-20031.\n \nLoading…
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/branding-communications-curbside-1x1-final-session/
LOCATION:Kittredge Center\, Holyoke Community College\, 303 Homestead Ave\, Holyoke
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150325T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150411T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20141223T195714Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150130T205429Z
UID:12731-1427306400-1428764400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Four Season Farming
DESCRIPTION:Explores strategies for extending growing seasons into the fall and winter. Includes such topics as: hoophouses\, coldframes\, raised beds\, mulch\, managing seasonal crops\, frost proofing\, cold hardy crops\, early spring greenhouse management\, winter snow removal\, and seed germination under unheated conditions. This is the credit-free offering of AGR 111.\n\n\nMeets Wednesdays 6-8:30p and Saturdays 10-3p from 3/25 – 4/11\n\nClick for more details. 
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/four-season-farming/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150326T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150326T160000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150212T232458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150212T232649Z
UID:13196-1427359500-1427385600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Pollinator Health for Agriculture and Landscapes
DESCRIPTION:Pollinator Health for Agriculture and Landscapes \nFull day program for all sectors of the agriculture and landscape communities\, including agricultural producers and grounds management professionals. University and national experts on pollinating insects\, protection of pollinators\, and pesticides will share the latest scientific research on factors affecting the health of honeybees and other pollinators\, best practices for sustaining populations\, and minimizing negative impacts with responsible production and land management strategies. \n\nCost is $65 for first registration\, $40/person for each additional registration from the same company. \n\nFour pesticide contact hours for all categories and Applicators License. 5.5 SAF\, 5.5 CFE\, and 1 MCH credits available. MCA\, MCLP and AOLCP credit requested.\nFor more information or to register for the workshop\, click here.\n\nDate: March 26\, 2015\nTime: 8:45 am – 4:00 pm\n Location: Campus Center Auditorium\, UMass Amherst
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/pollinator-health-for-agriculture-and-landscapes/
LOCATION:UMass Campus Center Auditorium\, 1 Campus Center Way\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150327T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150327T123000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T180034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150320T170923Z
UID:13605-1427448600-1427459400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Solar Thermal for Your Farm
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by the Massachusetts Farm Energy Program \nCome learn about solar thermal technologies\, applications\, and benefits for your farm\, as well as funding opportunities! \n  \nTwo locations: \nMarch 27th 9:30am – 12:30pm\nMassachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\n101 University Drive\, Suite C4\, Amherst \nOr \nApril 2nd 9:30am – 12:30pm\nUMass Cranberry Experiment Station\n1 State Bog Road\, East Wareham \n  \nPresenters: Gerry Palano\, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and Peter McPhee\, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center \nTopics: Solar thermal technologies\, applications for your farm and funding opportunities.  \nTo pre-register or receive further information\, please contact Megan Denardo at 413-727-3090 or megan.denardo@cetonline.org
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/solar-thermal-for-your-farm/
LOCATION:Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\, 101 University Drive\, Suite C4\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150327T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150327T203000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150324T191709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150324T191709Z
UID:13682-1427482800-1427488200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Creating Your Own Permaculture Landscape in Your Backyard with Llani Davidson
DESCRIPTION:Heard the word permaculture? Not sure what it is? In this workshop I show photos\, tell stories\, and share my experience of gardening for 10+ years. I share my approach to using permaculture design and integrating permaculture systems such as bed layout\, water systems\, forest gardens and creating multiple uses for everything! \nLlani Davidson has over 10 years of experience in organic CSA farming\, home-scale food production\, and teaching permaculture design. She is a co-founder of Broadfork Permaculture\, a cooperative landscaping business based in the Pioneer Valley\, and grows her own permaculture garden in Turners Falls\, MA. \nNo RSVP necessary\, just come and enjoy learning about permaculture!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/creating-your-own-permaculture-landscape-in-your-backyard-with-llani-davidson/
LOCATION:Wendell Public Library\, 7 Wendell Depot Road\, Wendell\, MA\, 01379
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T173000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150212T203919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150212T204013Z
UID:13171-1427529600-1427563800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:3rd Annual Massachusetts Urban Farming Conference
DESCRIPTION:A sample of panels and workshops:\n§  Urban Farming and STEM Education\n§  Soil Nutrition\n§  Urban Food Hubs\n§  Aquaponics\n§  Urban Farming Training Workshop\n§  Biodynamic Growing \n§  Viable and Sustainable Enterprises\n§  Cultural Crop Production\n§  Youth and Urban Agriculture\n§  Farms First: How Urban Ag Can Help Address Food Insecurity\n \nPurchase your tickets today\, this event will sell out!\n$35 Early Bird Registration (until February 23\, 2015)\n$50 Registration (February 24\, 2015 – March 15\, 2015)\n$75 Registration (March 16 – event day)\n  \nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-ma-urban-farming-conference-tickets-15053067129 \n \nFor more information\, contact Rose Arruda at MDAR; Rose.Arruda@state.ma.us\nFor sponsorship and vendor opportunities\, contact Crystal Johnson Crystal@ISESplanning.com.\n\nPresented by: City Growers and Urban Farming Institute\, in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/3rd-annual-massachusetts-urban-farming-conference/
LOCATION:Worcester State University\, 486 Chandler St.\, Worcester\, MA\, 01602\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T160000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150212T220209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150212T221005Z
UID:13186-1427533200-1427558400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Cellars & Cave Tour of Heath with Colrain Extension
DESCRIPTION:The Heath Agricultural Society invites you to the second Cellars & Cave Tour taking place the fourth Saturday in March (3/28/15). If you have an interest in learning more about do-it-yourself skills like making cider\, cheese\, beer or preserving food in a root cellar here is your chance to see it for yourself and learn from your neighbors. New on the tour this year will be the Colrain Extension including the Stoneman Brewery and Katywil Farm Community. Returning this year will be Bourke Shire Farm\, Colonel Maxwell Farm\, and Manse Farm. Also new this year\, “Make your own” workshops will feature the basics of making cheese\, cider\, beer and cured & smoked meats. Lunch is provided for tour participants in the Community Hall. The tour has a suggested donation of $5/person. Workshops are an additional fee of $10. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Meet at the Community Hall at 9:00 am (don’t be late) \nTo RSVP\, please contact the event organizer\, Jessica van Steensburg\, via email or phone (see info. below) \nRSVP by 3/21/2015 \nSchedule: \nSign in at 9:00 – Heath Community Hall (1 East Main St.) \nTours begin promptly at 9:15 \nLunch – 1:00 – 2:00 (**bring your own bowl and utensils) \nDo-it-Yourself Workshops from 2:30 – 4:00 \n  \nTours: \nBeer Brewery – Stoneman Brewery (Colrain) \nCheese Cave – Katywil Farm Community (Colrain) \nRoot Cellar- Col. Maxwell Farm (Heath) \nCider Cellar – The Manse Farm (Heath) \nDo It Yourself Workshops: \nThese will be 60 – 90 minutes in length.  \n  \nCider: \nSpeakers: Bob Bourke of Bourke Shire Farm and Doug Mason of The Manse Farm \nDiscussion on cider making equipment\, materials and techniques from raw juice to finished product. We will briefly cover pressing\, vessels\, hydrometers\, yeasts\, additives\, fermentation\, troubleshooting\, and bottling. Samples and worksheet will be provided. 60 minutes in length \nCheese: \nSpeaker: Sheila Litchfield of Dell Farm \nIntroduction to cheesemaking with mozzarella cheese making demonstration. Recipe provided and we get to enjoy what we made!  60 minutes in length.  \nBeer: \nSpeaker: Justin Korby of Stoneman Brewery\, known for the first beer CSA in MA and also for having the smallest brewery in the state.  \n\nHome brewing workshop where you will learn how to brew your own beer in your kitchen  \nCured and Smoked Meats:  \nSpeaker: Haynes Turkle of Katywil Farm Community \nIntroduction to the ancient and delicious art of charcuterie. We will touch on the curing process\, aging\, curing caves\, and smoking. We will also discuss sausage making and fermented meats. Finally\, you will see a demonstration of how to prepare Bresaola\, a delicious Italian cured and aged meat
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/cellars-cave-tour-of-heath-with-colrain-extension/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Jessica van Steensburg":MAILTO:wecanfarminheath@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T113000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150310T180637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150324T170032Z
UID:13508-1427535000-1427542200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:10th Annual Diemand Farm Easter Egg Hunt: CANCELED
DESCRIPTION:We are very sad to announce that this year’s Easter Egg Hunt and activities are being cancelled. \nThis is due to the fact that there are multiple identifications of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in the United States. Wild birds and domestic birds have been found to be susceptible. \nIt has been highly recommended by the Department of Agriculture that we minimize any contact our animals have with the general public. \nWhile our farmstore is far enough away from our animals to allow you to visit us there\, the amount of exposure from the Easter Egg Hunt could be devastating to our farm. \nThe spreading of the AI is believed to be the result of migratory birds and the seasonal movement of these birds. \nThe confirmed cases are in the western and central states\, not in our area. However\, we are concerned with the easy travel that everyone has now and that so many people have wild bird feeders that our farm animals could become unknowingly infected and we need to protect them to the best of our ability. \nThe threat is more intense in the colder seasons and we are looking into having an event during the warmer months after this is over\, so please watch for further information. \nPlease come and see us at the farmstore. We love seeing our customers even if we cannot allow anyone to see our baby chicks at this time. \n– Diemand Farm Facebook Posting
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/10th-annual-diemand-farm-easter-egg-hunt/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150328T130000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150226T221731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150226T222345Z
UID:13364-1427536800-1427547600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Pruning Apple Trees\, the Art & Science
DESCRIPTION:The joy of growing fruit in the home garden is enjoying a renaissance.   One of the key steps in successful fruit growing is the act of pruning the trees.  This can seem daunting and complicated\, but it’s not!  Not once you understand the principles involved.  Come learn how to properly prune your fruit trees.  Participants will have the opportunity to conduct actual pruning and gain both experience and confidence in pruning apple trees in order to produce a bountiful crop. \nCost: $50 \nTo register or to find more information\, click here. \nThis workshop will be partially out of doors\, so please dress appropriately for potentially wet\, cold\, and muddy conditions.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/pruning-apple-trees-the-art-science/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150329T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150329T160000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T190352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150317T190352Z
UID:13612-1427637600-1427644800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Sustainability Sunday Workshop Series: Learn how to make butcher's twine
DESCRIPTION:Learn how to make butcher’s twine with Sharon Raymond.  This involves two colors twisted together\, usually white and another color from recycled T-shirts (tentative).  BRING tees hirts (especially white ones).  Registration Required.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/sustainability-sunday-workshop-series-learn-how-to-make-butchers-twine/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150331T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150331T210000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T180609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150317T180609Z
UID:13607-1427828400-1427835600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Seed Saving Workshop
DESCRIPTION:With the Seed Savers of UMass\nFeaturing guest speaker Oona Coy \n\nIntroduction into seed saving\nBasic seed saving techniques\nInformational booths\nHands-on activities\nSeeds to take home\n\nThis workshop is free and open to the public\nSponsored by Grow Food Amherst and the UMass Stockbridge School of Agriculture
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/seed-saving-workshop/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150402T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150402T163000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T202700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150317T202700Z
UID:13617-1427963400-1427992200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:6th Annual Farm to School Conference
DESCRIPTION:Food Connects presents their 6th Annual Farm to School Conference in Brattleboro Vermont. \nt’s only $40 for the entire day with 12 GREAT workshops to choose from!  \nTopics include: school composting\, community school gardens\, classroom cooking and taste testing\, innovative strategies to feed students over weekends and vacations\, and much more!  \nProfessional Development Certificates will be made available. More info on our website and below to share…please feel free to forward on. Our main target audiences this year are teachers\, educators\, after school coordinators\, school administrators\, interested parents/community members! \nFor more info or to register\, visit our website
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/6th-annual-farm-to-school-conference/
LOCATION:VT Agricultural Business Education Center\, 8 University Way\, Brattleboro\, VT\, 05301\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150402T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150402T123000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150320T171057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150320T171057Z
UID:13657-1427967000-1427977800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Solar Thermal for Your Farm
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by the Massachusetts Farm Energy Program \nCome learn about solar thermal technologies\, applications\, and benefits for your farm\, as well as funding opportunities! \n  \nTwo locations: \nMarch 27th 9:30am – 12:30pm\nMassachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\n101 University Drive\, Suite C4\, Amherst \nOr \nApril 2nd 9:30am – 12:30pm\nUMass Cranberry Experiment Station\n1 State Bog Road\, East Wareham \n  \nPresenters: Gerry Palano\, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and Peter McPhee\, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center \nTopics: Solar thermal technologies\, applications for your farm and funding opportunities.  \nTo pre-register or receive further information\, please contact Megan Denardo at 413-727-3090 or megan.denardo@cetonline.org
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/solar-thermal-for-your-farm-2/
LOCATION:UMass Cranberry Experiment Station\, 1 State Bog Road\, East Wareham\, MA\, 02538
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150404T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150404T140000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150226T223144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150226T223558Z
UID:13373-1428141600-1428156000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Growing & Pruning Grapes
DESCRIPTION:Grapes are one of the most universally enjoyed fruits available. Many of the new varieties have excellent taste\, are winter hardy\, and can make excellent wine. Grapes are fun to grow but present some challenges. Sonia Schloemann will help participants through the basics and give them the tools to overcome some of the challenges. Specific topics will include selecting varieties\, planting\, fertilizing\, controlling pests\, pruning\, and vine training.  Participants will have the opportunity to conduct actual pruning and gain both experience and confidence in pruning and training grapes in order to produce a bountiful crop. There will be a break for participants to enjoy a BYO lunch. \nCost: $50 \nFor more information or to register\, click here.  \nThis workshop will be partially out of doors\, so please dress appropriately for potentially wet\, cold\, and muddy conditions.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/growing-pruning-grapes/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150404T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150404T120000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150324T192632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150324T193146Z
UID:13685-1428143400-1428148800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Creating Your Own Permaculture Landscape in Your Backyard with Ashley Schenk
DESCRIPTION:You can apply permaculture design to any backyard\, big or small\, shady or drenched with sun. Ashley uses examples from gardens throughout the Pioneer Valley to show how you can use Permaculture Design to grow food\, nourish a healthy ecosystem\, and build a deeper relationship with your land. His clear explanation of the design process\, specific examples\, and knowledge of design strategies helps you focus in on your goals\, learn useful strategies\, and identifying what is and isn’t working in your landscape. \nAshley Schenk has six years of experience as a natural builder and permaculture designer. He recently co-founded a permaculture landscaping cooperative\, Broadfork Permaculture\, and has been working throughout Franklin and Hampshire Counties designing and implementing healthy backyard landscapes.  \nBroadfork Permaculture provides edible landscapes and ecological designs for backyard and commercial landscapes\, including annual beds\, native plant gardens\, edible perennials\, and energy-wise landscapes. Find them on the web at: www.broadfork.coop. \nNo RSVP necessary\, just come and enjoy learning about permaculture!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/creating-your-own-permaculture-landscape-in-your-backyard-with-ashley-schenk/
LOCATION:Greenfield Public Library\, 412 Main Street\, Greenfield\, MA 01301
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20150405
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20150406
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150320T170823Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150320T170823Z
UID:13656-1428192000-1428278399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Hampden and Hampshire Conservation Districts' Plant Sale 2015
DESCRIPTION:It’s hard to believe but Spring planting time is almost here! Only a few weeks left to order for the Hampden and Hampshire Conservation Districts 2015 Spring Tree\, Shrub\, & Plant Sale! \nThe Districts are accepting orders for their annual plant sale through April 5\, 2015. \nChoices include a wide variety of trees\, shrubs\, perennials\, and edibles. Compost will also be for sale in a 40-pound bags.  Soil testing will be done by members of the Western Massachusetts Master Gardeners on pick up day\, April 25th\, 2015 at the Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton. \n\nTo use our on line ordering system with color photos and descriptions visit http://www.pioneervalleyconservation.org/ \nOr request a brochure by calling  #413-586-5440 x118 or email mailto: 413treesale@gmail.com. \nThe Conservation Districts provide technical assistance to landowners and communities on conservation\, woodland\, and wildlife management and farmland preservation.  The plant sale is our major fundraising source which allows us to provide conservation activities in your community. Please consider supporting local conservation.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/hampden-and-hampshire-conservation-districts-plant-sale-2015/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150405T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150405T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150403T003556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150403T003609Z
UID:13771-1428238800-1428246000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Book Signing: Elizabeth Thwing author of Amazing Amusing Emus
DESCRIPTION:Come to World Eye Bookshop this Saturday to get your copy of Amazing Amusing Emus signed by author Elizabeth Thwing\, and to see live Emu chicks! \nElizabeth Thwing has spent the past five years working with Songline Emu Farm in Gill. Written for the middle schooler and up\, her book is packed with visuals and storylines about the life of an emu from the time it is a hatchling until it is two years old and able to lay its own eggs. \nRead more about Amazing Amusing Emus. \nLearn about more about Emus on Songline Emu Farm’s website.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/book-signing-elizabeth-thwing-author-of-amazing-amusing-emus-2/
LOCATION:World Eye Bookshop\, 156 Main Street\, Greenfield\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20150407
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20150409
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T204404Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150317T204404Z
UID:13624-1428364800-1428537599@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Welcoming Customers to Your Farm Conference
DESCRIPTION:A two-day gathering in Rutland for farmers\, agricultural service providers\, educators\, and others interested in agritourism\, on-farm education\, and direct sales. \nDowntown Rutland’s Paramount Theater and Community College of Vermont will be the venues for speakers and hands-on workshops. \nSpend Tuesday\, April 7 touring a variety of farms in the Rutland region. On Wednesday\, April 8\, learn from experts in agritourism\, on-farm education\, and direct sales — and share your experiences! \nThis is a great chance to learn from… \n\nFarm stay operator\, Beth Kennett\, Liberty Hill Farm\nMarketing consultant\, Pam Knights\, Pam Knights Communications\nFarm tour operator\, Chris Howell\, Vermont Farm Tours\nVermont Fresh Network’s\, Grace Meyer on Dig In VT\nFloating Bridge Food and Farms Cooperative\, Mari Omland\, Green Mountain Girls Farm\nMassachusetts diversified farmer and on-farm dinner extraordinaire\, Elizabeth Almeida\, Fat Moon Farm\nConnecticut farm-based educator and farmer\, Brianne Casadei\, Terra Firma Farm\nSalem\, NY farmer and educator\, Meg Southerland\, Gardenworks Farm \nAnd many more speakers and peers!\n\nFor more information or to register\, click here. \nREGISTRATION CLOSES MARCH 23RD
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/welcoming-customers-to-your-farm-conference/
LOCATION:Unnamed Venue\, Rutland\, VT\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20150407
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20150410
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150303T192629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150303T194134Z
UID:13433-1428364800-1428623999@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Farm to Institution Summit at UMass Amherst
DESCRIPTION:Are you working to increase the amount of local and regional food used by schools\, colleges and health care facilities in the Northeast? You’re invited to the 2015 Farm to Institution Summit at UMass Amherst in Amherst\, Massachusetts on April 7-9!\n\n \n\n\nThis first year conference will feature 50+ sessions\, inspiring speakers\, local tours\, good food\, live music\, an exhibitor fair and more. Please join us – along with hundreds of other farm to institution advocates – for three exciting days of programming.\n\n\n \n\n\nThe Farm to Institution Summit is hosted by Farm to Institution New England in partnership with the National Farm to School Network\, Health Care Without Harm and Farm to Institution New York State\, and generously funded by the USDA\, John Merck Fund and Henry P. Kendall Foundation along with other sponsors. \n\n\n \n\n\nRegister by March 10th to save $20 per day. Early bird registration costs $75 for one day\, $140 for two days or $200 for three days. We’re excited to offer a special rate of only $40 per day for farmers\, students and AmeriCorps service members. Full scholarships are also available. \n\n\n \n\n\nThere’s still time to sign up for the exhibitor fair to promote your mission\, service or products: www.farmtoinstitution.org/summit#exhibitor-fair\n\n\n \n\n\nInvite your networks and friends! We have sample communications and graphics you can use: www.farmtoinstitution.org/summit#outreach\n\n\n \n\n\nLearn more: www.farmtoinstitution.org/summit\n\nTo register: http://www.farmtoinstitution.org/summit/registration \n\n\n \n\n\nWe hope to see you there! 
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farm-to-institution-summit-at-umass-amherst/
LOCATION:UMass Amherst\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150408T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150408T210000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150224T232214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150408T185454Z
UID:13342-1428480000-1428526800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Farm to Institution Summit at UMass Amherst: Farmer-focused workshops on April 8th
DESCRIPTION:Farmer-focused workshops on April 8th:\n\nSession Presenters: \n\nRachel Armstrong\, Attorney at Farm Commons\nElena Mihaly\, Healthy Communities and Environmental Justice Legal Fellow at the Conservation Law Foundation\n\nFinal Session Description: Facilitated by an attorney from Farm Commons\, attendees will receive a roadmap to the complicated maze of farm employment laws. The path begins with basic farm employment law obligations such as minimum wage and workers compensation. Our roads will diverge as agricultural employment laws give way to standard employment laws when farmers develop strong institutional sales. We will also make pit stops on the subjects of interns\, volunteers\, work-trade arrangements.  We won’t just talk about obligations; participants will learn from farmers who have found solutions for merging the rules with farm realities in their operations.  Finally\, participants will learn about the Legal Services Food Hub\, a resource where farmers can access free legal assistance with their employment contract needs. \n\nDesired Time: 3:45pm – 5:00pm \nSession Title: On Farm Food Safety: Regulations\, Best Practices\, Applied Research \nSession Presenters: \n\nAmanda Kinchla\, Extension Assistant Professor at UMass Amherst\nRich Bonanno\, PhD\, Assoc. Professor at UMass Amherst\nFrank Mangan\, PhD\, Extension Associate Professor at UMass Amherst\nMichael Botelho\, CQP Program Manager at MA Department of Agriculture\n\n\nFinal Session Description: There is a continued growing demand for improved food safety practices from farm-to-fork.  While proposed food regulations will require increased food safety practices\, there is little available to meet these expectations. This session will share the most up-to-date Food Safety Modernization Act regulations relevant to the proposed produce rule\, share strategies in utilizing food safety practices for enhance market access and learn up research efforts conducted at UMass specific to produce safety. \nProposed Symposium: \n\nDecoding On-farm Food Safety Regulation. Topics include:  Sharing the latest status on the proposed FSMA produce rule; Describe produce safety terms: FSMA vs. GAP certification vs good-agricultural practices vs. CPQ\nFood Safety as a channel for enhance market access.\nLessons learned in implementing an on-farm food safety plan\n\n\nApplied research for improved produce safety practices: Wash water quality control tools; Commercially available sanitizers for improved produce washing; Bio-sensor technologies for on-farm microbial testing for agricultural water.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/13342/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150410T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150410T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150224T192754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150224T192754Z
UID:13339-1428656400-1428678000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Federal Grant Writing Workshop: Learn Successful Strategies for Writing Winning Grants for Local Foods
DESCRIPTION:Do you operate a local food related business\, organization\, or farmers market?  Are you seeking funding to expand your work and impact on the local food system?\nJoin us for a Federal Grant Writing Workshop to learn about federal grants for local food and farmers market promotion projects and how to develop competitive proposals for these funding opportunities.\nThis grant writing workshop will walk participants through all you need to know to navigate and apply for the upcoming 2015 USDA\, Agricultural Marketing Service Farm Bill grants which provide funding for local & regional food system projects including: \n\nLocal Food Promotion Program grant consists of two types of funding\, a planning grant and an implementation grant for a broad variety of food system activities including: growing\, aggregating\, processing\, or selling regionally produced food.\nThe Farmers Market Promotion Program grant is designed to support direct-to-consumer farm marketing activities and promotion.\n\nNo-cost\, and open to the public\nRefreshments provided  \nTraining Date\, Time\, and Location:\n \nFriday\, April 10\, 2015\n9:00-3:00\n \nHartman’s Herb Farm\n1026 Old Dana Road\nBarre\, MA 01005\n \n \nRegister Here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GNTXVBK \nLink to Project Website: http://www.amsta.net/\nLink to Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AMSTAproject\n 
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/federal-grant-writing-workshop-learn-successful-strategies-for-writing-winning-grants-for-local-foods/
LOCATION:Hartman’s Herb Farm\, 1026 Old Dana Road\, Barre\, MA\, 01005\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150410T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150410T170000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150409T202652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150409T203626Z
UID:13852-1428681600-1428685200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:UMasss Stockbridge School of Agriculture & Food For All Amherst windowsill plants workshop
DESCRIPTION:Leave with your own potted herb to take home! \n**Friday April 10th\, 4pm-5pm: Workshop on growing windowsill container plants in recycled containers. \n All workshops take place at CHD’s Not Bread Alone at the First Congregational Church of Amherst\, 165 Main Street.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/umasss-stockbridge-school-of-agriculture-food-for-all-amherst-windowsill-plants-workshop/
LOCATION:First Congregational Church\, 165 Main Street\, Amherst\, MA\, 01002
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150411T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150411T130000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150226T223449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150226T223635Z
UID:13375-1428746400-1428757200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Invasive Plants in Massachusetts: What\, Why\, Where and How
DESCRIPTION:This presentation will explain the characteristics that make a plant invasive and where these plants are considered to be troublesome in New England. Suggestions for effective management of several of the most common invasive culprits will be provided. \nCost: $50 \nFor more information or to register\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/invasive-plants-in-massachusetts-what-why-where-and-how/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150411T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150411T130000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150320T165512Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150320T165512Z
UID:13654-1428746400-1428757200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Forest Grown Mushroom Inoculation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Come to the New England Wild Edibles annual inoculation workshop to be held on April 11\, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Colrain\, Massachusetts.  Learn how to start your own mushroom farm.  Participants will inoculate two logs to bring home to produce gourmet mushrooms in your own back yard.  This year we will be inoculating hard wood logs with shiitake and oyster mushroom spawn.  You will learn how mushrooms break down organic matter and how to provide the ideal conditions to care for your logs to maximize mushroom production.  Coffee or tea and light refreshments provided. \n$30 per person (bring a friend for $50) \nCall me at (413) 624-5188 or e-mail mailto: pclagreze@gmail.com for reservations
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/forest-grown-mushroom-inoculation-workshop/
LOCATION:New England Wild Edibles\, 65 Foundry Village Road\, Colrain\, MA\, 01340\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150411T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150411T170000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150408T164957Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150408T233327Z
UID:13837-1428750000-1428771600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Celebrate 11 years of baking at Hungry Ghost Bread!
DESCRIPTION:Come by Hungry Ghost Bread this Saturday\, April 11th to help us celebrate eleven years of baking. In addition to the usual array of tarts & batards\, we’ll have live music\, fresh food vendors\, and our annual “poetry of the bread year” reading. \nThis event is free & open to all!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/celebrate-11-years-of-baking-at-hungry-ghost-bread/
LOCATION:Hungry Ghost Bread\, 62 State Street\, Northampton\, MA\, 01060
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150412T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150412T140000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T190908Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150317T191236Z
UID:13613-1428847200-1428847200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Sustainabillity Sunday Workshop Series: Freedom with Coffee\, Consumer Consciousness\, and Community
DESCRIPTION:Freedom with Coffee\, Consumer Consciousness\, and Community.  A workshop sponsored by the Freedom Cafe of Amherst.  Who knew that a small cup of drip coffee could make a splash halfway across the world?  The Freedom Cafe is a non-profit\, volunteer based organization that is dedicated towards great coffee for a great cause – fighting human trafficking.  Come join some of our baristas for an educational event to discuss modern day slavery\, and how we can make a tangible difference here in Amherst.  Learn what you can do to help\, and in the process\, how to make a great cup o’ joe.  Drink to freedom!  (Registration Required)
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/sustainabillity-sunday-workshop-series-freedom-with-coffee-consumer-consciousness-and-community/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150412T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150412T160000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150317T185037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150408T181436Z
UID:13608-1428847200-1428854400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Sustainable Food and Farming Expo
DESCRIPTION:Are you curious to learn about what Sustainable Agriculture is? You are invited to a family friendly info session on topics relating to Sustainable Agriculture \n\nLearn about ways that YOU can implement sustainable agriculture methods in your household or backyard\nBe informed on local\, state\, and federal policy pertaining to agriculture and how you can use your vote.\nLearn the difference between organic and conventional farming and explore the different methods of organic growing.\nEducate yourself on soil health and composting.\nSample food from local farms\, learn about farms in the Valley\, and see for yourself how tasty and affordable sustainable agriculture is!\nEnter our raffle for a chance to win a raised garden bed installation and goods donated by local farms and businesses!\n\nCo-sponsored by the Stockbridge School of Agriculture\, the League of Women Voters\, and the UU Green Sanctuary Committee.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/sustainable-food-and-farming-expo/
LOCATION:Unitarian Universalist Society of Amherst\, 121 N Pleasant St\, Amherst\, MA\, 01002
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150415T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150415T133000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150310T175723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150317T211354Z
UID:13505-1429088400-1429104600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:LAND: The foundation of a healthy food system
DESCRIPTION:PVGrows 2015 Spring Forum \nREGISTER TODAY!  \nThe forum will be followed by a MA Food Plan Listening Session from 2:00 – 3:30pm \n\nJust as a house needs a strong foundation to support it over time\, farmers need secure access to land to produce food. Land is the foundation of our food system. \n\nHow does access to farmland fit into a vision of creating a healthy\, resilient\, and equitable food system?\nHow can we ensure that farmland is available and protected for future generations?\nWhat is the connection between food access and farmland access?\nWhat can urban and rural communities learn from one another about accessing land for food production?\nJoin us for the PVGrows 2015 Spring Forum to learn about the important role that secure access to land plays in our food system – and how we can all work to strengthen this foundation.\n\nAt the PVGrows Spring Forum we will explore topics related to land access including land affordability\, land transfer and succession planning\, land conservation\, farm and food business financing\, farm viability\, and food access. \n\nLearn why secure access to farmland is vital to creating a healthy\, resilient\, and equitable food system in the Pioneer Valley.\nUnderstand the barriers facing producers who are trying to gain secure access to rural and urban farmland.\nGet introduced to the diverse approaches available for overcoming these barriers including conservation easements\, shared ownership\, and creative leasing.\nHear stories of innovative approaches to land access and partnerships in rural and urban settings and meet with local people working on these issues.\n\nCommunity support is critical to help farmers access\, hold\, and transfer land – and to keep working farms viable for future generations. Join us to learn more! \nLike past Forums\, the 2015 Spring Forum will include interactive sessions\, structured networking\, opportunities for collaboration\, and a locally grown lunch. This event is open to anyone interested in and working for a healthy food system in the Pioneer Valley. \nWhat is a PVGrows Forum?  \n\nThis event is open to anyone working for a healthy food system in the Pioneer Valley.\nSpace is limited to 130.\nForum Registration is $0-50\, sliding scale and includes a locally grown lunch.\nRegistration Required.  REGISTER HERE\n\nFor more information about the event\, visit the PVGrows website. \nWednesday\, April 15th from 9:00am – 1:30pm\nOpen Square – Mill 1\, Holyoke\, MA
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/land-the-foundation-of-a-healthy-food-system/
LOCATION:Open Square- Mill 1\, 4 Open Square Way\, Holyoke\, MA\, 01040\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150415T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150415T193000
DTSTAMP:20260426T135233
CREATED:20150410T184807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150410T184807Z
UID:13872-1429119000-1429126200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Free Screening of "The Weight on a Nation"
DESCRIPTION:Sponsored by the Springfield Food Policy Council & Mason Square Health Task Force. \nWednesdays\, April 15\, 22 & 29 \nThis 4-part documentary confronts America’s obesity crisis. Three years in the making\, this series features case studies and interviews with leading experts and with individuals and families struggling with obesity. The series spotlights the facts and myths of this public epidemic. \nA discussion with local experts in the fields of public health\, wellness\, and nutrition will be held after each screening \nRSVP: Johnetta Baymon (413) 263-6500 ext.6539 (preferred) or to johnettab@springfieldpartnersin.com \nFood will be served \nFor more information\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/free-screening-of-the-weight-on-a-nation/
LOCATION:Springfield Central Library\, 220 State Street\, Springfield\, MA\, 01103
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR