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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200321T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200321T120000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200302T162009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200302T162022Z
UID:32962-1584786600-1584792000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Easthampton Groundbreaking Ceremony - River Valley Coop
DESCRIPTION:River Valley Co·op \nEasthampton Groundbreaking Ceremony \nMarch 21st \n10:30am – 12:00pm · 228 Northampton St.\, Easthampton\, MA 
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/easthampton-groundbreaking-ceremony-river-valley-coop/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200323T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200323T130000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200129T200601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T200601Z
UID:32673-1584952200-1584968400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Grazing systems Introduction and overview to grazing systems
DESCRIPTION:2020 Classroom Workshops\nNutrition’s Role in Sustainable Livestock Production Practices A workshop series on pasture management and infrastructure and the nutritional needs of livestock raised on pasture. \nAll workshops held in the training room at Farm Credit East\, 240 S Rd. Enfield CT \nMonday\, March 23\, 2020 8:30 am to 1 pm (snow date: Mon. Mar. 30) Grazing systems Introduction and overview to grazing systems\, in-depth discussion of different types of grazing systems and multi-species grazing\nPeter Lowy\, Farm Manager at Codman Community Farm\nDr. Justine Deming\, University of Rhode Island \nSnow dates will be utilized if necessary. Those who registered will receive an email by 5 pm the previous day. Changes will also be posted on our website.\nRegister for any or all of the workshops at https://forms.gle/Q6MuG7xyyUH9y98x9 or email jean.king@uconn.edu \nThree field training workshops demonstrating these topics will be held in the summer. Certificates of Participation will be given to those who attend all three classroom workshops and at least one of the field workshops. \nThese workshops are part of the USDA/NESARE Professional Development Program grant: Nutrition’s Role in Sustainable Livestock Production Practices\, a joint project among the Universities of Connecticut\, Massachusetts\, and Rhode Island. Tri-State Project Director: Rachel Bespuda\, UConn Rachel.bespuda@uconn.edu   www.meatsystems.uconn.edu
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/grazing-systems-introduction-and-overview-to-grazing-systems/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200325T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200325T170000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200226T173342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T173342Z
UID:32922-1585125000-1585155600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Produce Safety Grower Training 2020 Series
DESCRIPTION:Who Should Attend \nFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety\, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule\, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs)\, and co-management of natural resources and food safety. This course will also cover the Massachusetts Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP)\, a voluntary 3rd-party audit program. \nThis training satisfies the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement for covered farms that “at least one supervisor or responsible party” completes “food safety training … recognized as adequate” by FDA (21 C.F.R. §112.22(c)). \nFor more information on the Produce Safety Alliance and the Grower Training Course\, see: https://producesafetyalliance.cornell.edu/training/grower-training-courses \nCost is $50 for each program and includes the required PSA Grower Manual ($60 value)\, a Certificate of Course attendance from AFDO ($35 value)\, and lunch and refreshments. \nInstructors:  \n\nLisa McKeag\, UMass Extension\nMichael Botelho\, MDAR Produce Safety Inspection Program\n\nThe training will be held in multiple locations:  \n\nWednesday\, March 25 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Wylie Inn & Conference Center\, 295 Hale St.\, Beverly\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSABeverly20 \n\nWednesday\, April 1 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Rosebrook Event Center\, 50 Rosebrook Place\, Wareham\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSAWareham20 \nQuestions? Contact for all programs: Lisa McKeag\, lmckeag@umass.edu\, 413- 545-1051.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/produce-safety-grower-training-2020-series-2/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T113000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200303T143956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200303T143956Z
UID:32979-1585389600-1585395000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Blueberry Pruning for the Home Gardener
DESCRIPTION:Blueberry Pruning for the Home Gardener\, Saturday March 28\, 10-11:30 a.m. \nDo you have blueberry bushes but are afraid to prune them for fear of making a mistake? Do you wish your bushes produced bigger\, better berries? Join QQ Farm Manager\, Leslie Harris\, and the QQ farm crew for a hands-on workshop about pruning blueberry bushes. Learn about blueberry growth habit\, the importance of thinning for great fruit\, and which tools our pruners prefer. Registration includes all supplies and light refreshments. $30.00 \nRegister for workshops from the Farm Events Calendar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/blueberry-pruning-for-the-home-gardener/
LOCATION:Quonquont Farm\, Whately\, MA\,  
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T120000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200129T202215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202215Z
UID:32686-1585389600-1585396800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Home Orchard Establishment & Basics
DESCRIPTION:Home Orchard Establishment & Basics -a Classroom Workshop\n$50/person\nMr. Jon Clements and Ms. Liz Garofalo \nMarch 28\,2020\, 10:00am to 12:00pm\nCarlson Orchards: 115 Oak Hill Rd.\, Harvard MA 01451 \nHorticultural topics covered will be the basics of planting fruit trees\, including site selection\, choice of variety and root stock\, planting best practices\, tree training and pruning\, fertilization and ongoing fruit tree care. (In-depth pest management will be covered in the afternoon session.) If weather permits\, there will be a hands-on demonstration of planting fruit trees at the Orchard. \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/home-orchard-establishment-basics/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200328T153000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200129T202351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202351Z
UID:32688-1585400400-1585409400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Home Orchard Pest Management
DESCRIPTION:Home Orchard Pest Management -a Hands-on Workshop\n$50/person\nDr. Jaime Pinero and Ms. Liz Garofalo \nMarch 28\,2020\, 1:00pm to 3:30pm\nCarlson Orchards: 115 Oak Hill Rd.\, Harvard MA 01451 \nOne of the most challenging thing about growing your own fruit is knowing how to identify the insect pests and diseases that might afflict them. Learn the basics of pest and disease identification and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the home orchard. Hands-on\, scouting\, monitoring\, placement of traps\, etc. will be covered. \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/home-orchard-pest-management/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200330T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200330T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200220T165339Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200220T165339Z
UID:32872-1585569600-1585580400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Making It Happen: Profitability and Success
DESCRIPTION:The Making It Happen: Profitability and Success Training for farmers and food processors will give you the financial management toolbox needed to confidently answer these questions and improve your business decision making and profitability. \nThis interactive course presents four tools — cash flow budgeting\, scenario planning\, enterprise budgeting\, and sensitivity analysis — that “are fundamental and work well together to provide a comprehensive toolbox\,” according to a 2018 course participant. \nThe training is intended for producers with at least one year of operating experience and is approved as a USDA Farm Service Agency borrower training in Massachusetts\, New York\, Connecticut\, and Rhode Island. Participants in these areas receive registration priority. \n\n\nThis remote learning series is limited to 12 businesses and takes place in 3 sessions of approximately 3 hours each.    \nSession one:        Friday March 6       Noon to 3 PM \nSession two:        Friday March 13      Noon to 3 PM \nSession three:     Monday March 30    Noon to 3 PM \nRegister here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/making-it-happen-profitability-and-success-5/
LOCATION:MA
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T170000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200226T173448Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200226T173507Z
UID:32924-1585729800-1585760400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Produce Safety Grower Training 2020 Series
DESCRIPTION:Who Should Attend \nFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety\, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule\, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs)\, and co-management of natural resources and food safety. This course will also cover the Massachusetts Commonwealth Quality Program (CQP)\, a voluntary 3rd-party audit program. \nThis training satisfies the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement for covered farms that “at least one supervisor or responsible party” completes “food safety training … recognized as adequate” by FDA (21 C.F.R. §112.22(c)). \nFor more information on the Produce Safety Alliance and the Grower Training Course\, see: https://producesafetyalliance.cornell.edu/training/grower-training-courses \nCost is $50 for each program and includes the required PSA Grower Manual ($60 value)\, a Certificate of Course attendance from AFDO ($35 value)\, and lunch and refreshments. \nInstructors:  \n\nLisa McKeag\, UMass Extension\nMichael Botelho\, MDAR Produce Safety Inspection ProgramWednesday\, April 1 – 8:30 am to 5 pm – Rosebrook Event Center\, 50 Rosebrook Place\, Wareham\n\nRegister here: https://umasscafe.irisregistration.com/Form/PSAWareham20 \nQuestions? Contact for all programs: Lisa McKeag\, lmckeag@umass.edu\, 413- 545-1051.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/32924/
LOCATION:MA
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200129T202918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202918Z
UID:32692-1585733400-1585753200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Grafting Fruit Trees: a Hands-on Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Grafting Fruit Trees: a Hands-on Workshop\n$100/person***\nDr. Wesley Autio \nApril 11\, 2020\, 9:30am to 3:00pm\nUMass Cold Spring Orchard: 391 Sabin St.\, Belchertown\, MA 01007 \nMany people do not realize that all apple varieties are reproduced by grafting -they are not grown from seed. For horticultural enthusiasts\, one of the most satisfying techniques to master is grafting. Wes Autio will present a hands-on workshop on “bench grafting” and “cleft grafting” of apple trees. Other grafting techniques will be discussed. Proper tools and sharpening will be included. All workshop participants will graft several apple trees to take home! \n***This workshop is longer and involves additional plant material and supply costs \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/grafting-fruit-trees-a-hands-on-workshop/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200401T160000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200325T131126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200325T131155Z
UID:33330-1585753200-1585756800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Strategies for Online Farm Stores
DESCRIPTION:Strategies for Online Farm Stores\nWednesday\, April 1\, 2020\n3:00 PM – 4:00 PM \nAre you looking to transition to online or pre-paid sales? Thinking about offering home delivery or curbside pick-up? Come hear from a panel of livestock farmers who are currently doing it successfully! Our presenters are Hayden Holbert of Avrom Farm in WI\, Sam Gasson of Bull City Farm in NC\, Katie Steere of Deep Roots Farm in RI\, and Heather Puckett of MT Cross Farm in MT. They will share their experiences with the various online platforms\, and also offer tips for navigating the logistical challenges that come with online stores. \nClick here to register for this online farm sales webinar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-strategies-for-online-farm-stores/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T130000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200330T204417Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200330T204417Z
UID:33444-1585828800-1585832400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar on new payroll and tax provisions in FFCRA
DESCRIPTION:Farm Credit East is offering an educational webinar regarding new payroll and tax provisions outlined in the newly passed Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and Coronavirus Aid\, Relief\, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This free webinar will be held on Thursday\, April 2\, from noon to 1 p.m. \nSenior Tax Consultant\, Dario Arezzo\, will review some of the key tax provisions of the CARES Act\, as well as tax planning considerations for agricultural businesses. Tax and payroll provisions of the FFCRA\, including emergency leave and payroll tax credits for employers\, will also be covered. \nTo register for the free\, one-hour webinar\, or to see recordings of past webinars\, visit FarmCreditEast.com/Webinars. Also\, for ongoing updates on tax provisions including updates on tax law changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic\, visit our Tax Talks blog at FarmCreditEast.com/TaxTalks.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-on-new-payroll-and-tax-provisions-in-ffcra/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T170000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200323T192619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200323T192619Z
UID:33273-1585828800-1585846800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Farm to Freezer: The Logistics of Online Sales & Shipping Meat
DESCRIPTION:When: Thursday\, April 2nd\n12pmEST \nHear from three experienced panelists who sell their meats online & ship direct to consumers. Let’s turn the COVID-19 pandemic into an opportunity to connect our niche meats to hungry consumers. Topics will include: setting up an online store\, different web platforms\, accepting payments\, updating inventory\, meat selection\, subscriptions versus ala-carte orders\, boxes\, insulation\, dry ice\, maintaining cold chain\, shipping carriers\, costs\, & legalities of selling meat across state lines (Rebecca will cover that one). This will be more of an informal discussion than a formal presentation. \nPanelists include:\nMatthew Lawrence\, Marble Creek Farmstead & Marble City Meats USDA plant\, AL\nAdrienne Larrew\, Corner Post Meats\, CO\nBrian Brozovic\, Painted Hills Natural Beef\, OR \nPlease pre-register at least 10 minutes before the webinar at this link. All NMPAN webinars are FREE and will be archived to our YouTube channel should you not be able to attend.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-farm-to-freezer-the-logistics-of-online-sales-shipping-meat/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200402T203000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200228T210716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200314T000459Z
UID:32947-1585848600-1585859400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:WORKSHOP CANCELED: Farmer-to-farmer: sharing farm labor management successes and challenges
DESCRIPTION:**NOTE: THIS WORKSHOP HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS. WE HOPE TO BE ABLE TO RESCHEDULE IT AT A LATER TIME.** \nAll those who attend one or more of CISA’s winter workshops on farm labor management are invited to join this facilitated farmer-to-farmer discussion. This session will allow time for more in-depth conversation and idea-sharing related to several of the topics raised during the preceding workshops. Attendees will have the opportunity to get input from other farmers on specific management challenges they face and to share their own management strategies. Discussion topics will include strategies for training and coaching employees\, building effective and accountable teams on the farm\, establishing open lines of communication\, encouraging employee input and engagement\, and how to make time for it all! Seasoned farm managers will be participating to share their experiences and help facilitate conversation. This session is free\, and dinner will be provided. \nRegister here by Tuesday\, March 31st.\n\nThis workshop is part of a six-workshop series on farm labor management. Click here for information on the other workshops in this series.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farmer-to-farmer-sharing-farm-labor-management-successes-and-challenges/
LOCATION:Whately Town Hall\, 194 Chestnut Plain Road\, Whately\, MA\, 01093
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200404T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200404T140000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200129T202634Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T202634Z
UID:32690-1586001600-1586008800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Introductory Hard Cider Appreciation
DESCRIPTION:Introductory Hard Cider Appreciation-a Classroom Workshop\n$65/person**\nMs. Liz Garofalo \nApril 4\,2020\, 12:00pm to 2:00pm\nRed Apple Farm: 455 Highland Ave\, Phillipston MA 0331 \nCider is one of the fastest growing craft adult beverage markets in the country! There are many different styles of cider from the stuff your grandparents made in the basement to top shelf ciders that compare to fine Champagnes. Come and learn a brief history of cider and dive in to understanding (and tasting) why cider really is the best thing you can do with apples.**(Must be at least 21years of age to participate in this workshop). Space is limited so sign up early for this one! \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/introductory-hard-cider-appreciation/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200406T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200406T130000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200129T200830Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T200830Z
UID:32675-1586161800-1586178000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Extending the grazing season
DESCRIPTION:2020 Classroom Workshops\nNutrition’s Role in Sustainable Livestock Production Practices A workshop series on pasture management and infrastructure and the nutritional needs of livestock raised on pasture. \nAll workshops held in the training room at Farm Credit East\, 240 S Rd. Enfield CT \nMonday\, April 6\, 2020 8:30 am to 1 pm\nExtending the grazing season\nSpring\, summer and fall grazing\, stockpiling\, no till planting to extend the grazing season\, grazing cover crops and crop residues\nCarl Majewski\, University of New Hampshire Extension\nSam Glaze Corcoran\, University of Massachusetts Extension\nDr. Sjoerd Duiker\, Pennsylvania State University \nSnow dates will be utilized if necessary. Those who registered will receive an email by 5 pm the previous day. Changes will also be posted on our website.\nRegister for any or all of the workshops at https://forms.gle/Q6MuG7xyyUH9y98x9 or email jean.king@uconn.edu \nThree field training workshops demonstrating these topics will be held in the summer. Certificates of Participation will be given to those who attend all three classroom workshops and at least one of the field workshops. \nThese workshops are part of the USDA/NESARE Professional Development Program grant: Nutrition’s Role in Sustainable Livestock Production Practices\, a joint project among the Universities of Connecticut\, Massachusetts\, and Rhode Island. Tri-State Project Director: Rachel Bespuda\, UConn Rachel.bespuda@uconn.edu   www.meatsystems.uconn.edu
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/extending-the-grazing-season/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200406T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200406T203000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200309T180929Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200313T211642Z
UID:33054-1586194200-1586205000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CANCELLED: Local Buyer-Grower Meet & Greet
DESCRIPTION:***Due to COVID-19 health concerns this event has been cancelled***\n\n\n\nLocal Hero growers and food buyers\, join us for this free networking event! Farmers and producers\, come build relationships that can help you sell your goods\, and buyers\, come make the connections that can help you procure more local products. Learn how to take your business to the “next level” of local wholesaling and connect with other members of the Pioneer Valley’s food system. \nThe first half-hour will feature a panel of local wholesale farmers\, distributors\, and buyers. The panel will share lessons learned in scaling up their wholesale operations\, provide tips on presenting to buyers\, and advice on how to expand local purchasing. The networking portion will follow. \nLight refreshments and drinks will be provided. \nMonday\, April 6th\, 5:30-8:30pm\nWhately Town Hall\, 194 Chestnut Plain Road\, Whately MA
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/meet-and-greet/
LOCATION:Whately Town Hall\, 194 Chestnut Road\, Whately\, MA\, 01373\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200407T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200407T163000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200310T192551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200402T175507Z
UID:33072-1586269800-1586277000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Farmers' Market Manager Meetup: Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for the market season! In this webinar\, CISA will be sharing lots of information and resources on how to support and further improve farmers’ markets. The majority of content will relate to the current COVID-19 health crisis\, and the rest will be for sharing other useful information that markets can use. Open to all farmers’ market managers\, staff\, and board/steering committee members. This event is free and will be held as a webinar. Attendees can join via video conferencing or phone call. \nCISA will be covering: \n\nGuidance & best practices regarding COVID-19\nInsights on how to adjust your market so that it caters to changing consumer preferences (and more resources from the recently published Farmers’ Market toolkit that CISA collaborated on)\nHow to talk to vendors about SNAP/HIP\nMobile Market + updates & action items\nSelling to Everyone resources on how to make your market more welcoming to all\nCISA’s grant-funded farmers’ market work for 2020\n\nThere will also be time for open conversation and to connect with other market managers. This is an opportunity to discuss markets’ successes and challenges\, as well as share what CISA can do to continue to support farmers’ markets. \nRSVP using the form below\, or by reaching out to Zoey Sloate at zoey@buylocalfood.org or 413-665-7100 ext. 27. Upon registering\, you will receive information on to access the webinar. \nLoading…
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farmers-market-manager-meetup/
LOCATION:MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200413T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200413T140000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200410T173709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200410T173828Z
UID:33659-1586782800-1586786400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Northampton Emergency Small Business Grant Program Information Session
DESCRIPTION:Presentation and Q&A via Zoom\, with Dee Dice\, Valley CDC. \nJoin Dee Dice\, the Small Business Advisor at Valley Community Development to learn more about the Northampton Emergency Small Business Grant Program and discuss the eligibility requirements\, and the application review and award process. \nRegister Here \nAbout the Grant Program \nThe Northampton Emergency Small Business Grant is a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program designed to provide funds to low- and moderate-income businesses to assist them in remaining open\, as well as stimulate and pivot their businesses during this time of COVID-19 and in the future. \nGrant applications will open at 9:00 AM on Wednesday\, April 15\, 2020. A link to apply will be featured on this page of the Chamber’s website. \nPlease review the eligibility restrictions carefully\, as these funds are limited\, and the process will become overburdened if non-eligible small businesses apply. Find full details on our website. \nAbout Dee \nDee Dice\, Small Business Development Coordinator has always worked for herself until taking this position 3 years ago at Valley Community Development. As a serial entrepreneur\, her experience and creativity lend itself to helping others in starting businesses and continuing to make them grow. \nNorthampton Chamber COVID-19 Resource Page
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/northampton-emergency-small-business-grant-program-information-session/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200418T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200418T140000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200129T203056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200129T203056Z
UID:32694-1587204000-1587218400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Native Pollinator Biology & Conservation
DESCRIPTION:Native Pollinator Biology & Conservation–a Classroom Workshop\n$30/person\nMs. Sonia Schloemann \nApril 18\, 2020\, 10:00am to 12:00pm\nFrench Hall\, UMass\,: 230 Stockbridge Rd. Amherst\, MA (Park in Lot 62) 01003 \nNative pollinators are an essential resource in our wild and managed landscapes.Come to this workshop if you’re interested in learning more about their biology and conservation.We’ll mainly be talking about different species of bees but other types of pollinators will also be mentioned (flies\, birds\, bats\, etc.). We’ll learn about the different families of pollinating bees ranging from the tiny beautiful sweat bees to the big and endearing bumble bees.We’ll learn about what they need for nesting and foraging habitats and how to create these spaces in our landscapes.A brief tour of the UMass Permaculture Garden will be included. \nRegister online for any of the Mass Aggie seminars by clicking here.  Some workshops have limited space so registering online is more likely to ensure enrollment. \nIf you do not wish to register online\, you may print a registration form to mail. Click 2020 Mass Aggie Workshop Series\, and you will open a pdf version of the registration form. You can print this form\, select the seminars that you wish to attend\, and mail it with a check for the appropriate amount. \nPlease do not bring children or pets (except certified service animals) to any of these workshops.  We are not equipped to ensure their comfort or safety.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/native-pollinator-biology-conservation/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200426T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200426T120000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200303T200820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200303T200858Z
UID:33013-1587891600-1587902400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Abundant Plant Propagation
DESCRIPTION:Abundant Plant Propagation \nTEACHER: Daniel Bensonoff \nDATE: April 26th\nTIME: 9:00-12:00pm\nCOST: $30 \nDescription\nOne of the primary barriers in starting a new garden can be the cost of plants\, particularly perennial plants. By learning a handful of essential techniques we can create a multitude of useful plants for ourselves and the greater community. During this workshop we’ll practice a variety of propagation skills including hardwood cuttings\, layering\, stooling\, and more. Participants will leave with foundational skills to cheaply and easily create a more abundant garden. \nFor more information and to register\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/abundant-plant-propagation/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200427T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200427T110000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200427T133601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200427T133601Z
UID:33788-1587981600-1587985200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: COVID-19 SBA Resources Update
DESCRIPTION:Join a webinars on Monday 4/27 COVID-19 SBA Resources Update \nThe Massachusetts District Office is providing SBA small business relief program updates all week. Join any of our virtual sessions throughout the week to get the latest from our office. \nMonday 4/27/20 at 10:00am \nREGISTER \nOn Friday\, March 27th\, CARES Act was passed to help small businesses affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic. On Friday\, April 24th\, PPP and Health Care Enhancement Act was passed to increase funding for the PPP program. Limited funding will again be available through the SBA. Counseling and training is also available virtually through our network of resource partners. Focus on Smaller and Minority and Women-owned businesses. \nFollow-up with your bank as soon as possible if:\n• Your business applied last round but was not approved due to no more funds available.\n• You did not apply and are interested in applying.\n• If you don’t have a commercial relationship with a bank than contact us or view this link to lenders
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-covid-19-sba-resources-update/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200429T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200429T164500
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200408T220213Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200421T160550Z
UID:33630-1588174200-1588178700@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar for Farmers' Markets: Coaching vendors\, COVID-19\, & the SARE toolkit
DESCRIPTION:** The date of this webinar has changed to Thursday\, April 30*** \nAs farmers’ markets make adjustments to their operations in the face of the health crisis\, the overall feel and “draw” of markets will change for customers. Creating a warm\, friendly\, fun environment will have to be done differently this upcoming season; and much of the onus will be on vendors. \nMarket managers\, attend this webinar to learn how you can coach your vendors and volunteers so that they help create a positive market experience for customers. We’ll be sharing tips from the newly published SARE toolkit on a number of topics\, including: \n\n\n\nTips on opening & closing a sale\nProduct display guidance\nAvoiding customers’ top annoyances\nSensitivity training and “soft skills” tips\n\n\nIn this webinar\, the information will be from the recently published SARE Toolkit for Farmers’ Markets\, and the examples and application will relate to the COVID-19 situation. \nThis toolkit was created as a result of survey data collected at farmers’ markets last year across multiple states. The research sought to look into why customer attendance at farmers’ markets has been declining; this toolkit provides great insight\, ideas\, tips and tricks for farmers’ markets to reverse the downward trend and boost customer attendance. \nThe first 50 minutes will be devoted to CISA’s presentation and the remaining time will be for Q&A. This webinar will be recorded and you can access the toolkit at the link above. \nRegister using the form below. Upon registering\, you will receive information on to access the webinar.\nReach out to Zoey Sloate at zoey@buylocalfood.org or 413-665-7100 ext. 27 with any questions. \nLoading…
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-sare-toolkit-for-farmers-markets/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200430T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200430T140000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200423T181226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200423T181226Z
UID:33757-1588249800-1588255200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Dairy Risk Management Concepts for the Current Environment
DESCRIPTION:April 30\, 2020 \n\n\n\nDairy farmers and industry professionals are invited to hear Dr. Marin Bozic and Farm Credit East Business Consultant Gregg McConnell address the current dairy situation during a free webinar from 12:30-2:00 pm on Thursday\, April 30. During this time\, Dr. Bozic will provide a dairy markets update as well as discuss tools available to dairy producers to manage risk on their operation. Gregg McConnell will discuss how to evaluate your farm’s risk profile and the suitability of risk management tools for different situations. \n\n Register
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-dairy-risk-management-concepts-for-the-current-environment/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200502T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200502T113000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200303T144217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200303T144217Z
UID:32981-1588413600-1588419000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Twigs and Trellises—Making Garden Structures from Natural Materials
DESCRIPTION:Twigs and Trellises—Making Garden Structures from Natural Materials\nSaturday May 2\, 10-11:30 a.m. \nJoin Quonquont’s designer and naturalist Allison Bell to explore making garden structures from natural materials. We’ll discuss possibilities for fencing and ornamental structures and use locally sourced vines\, branches\, and apple prunings to make a standing trellis for your favorite climbing plants. Registration includes all supplies and light refreshments. $30.00 \nRegister for workshops from the Farm Events Calendar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/twigs-and-trellises-making-garden-structures-from-natural-materials/
LOCATION:Quonquont Farm\, Whately\, MA\,  
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200503T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200503T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200303T201126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200303T201126Z
UID:33016-1588496400-1588518000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Beginning Beekeepers Mentorship Program
DESCRIPTION:Beginning Beekeepers Mentorship Program \nTEACHER: Ori Ben-Shir \nDATE:  May 3rd\, June 7th and August 2nd\nTIME: 9:00-3:00pm\nCOST: $225 \nBYOS (bring your own suit)! There are some suits available to borrow.  Contact 94benshiro@gmail.com to arrange.   \n*class limited to 12 students \nThis mentorship program will provide practical\, hands-on guidance for students looking to learn the basics of honeybee care. Over the course of three full-day sessions\, we will address behavior analysis\, honey management\, swarm prevention\, increasing colonies\, and queen production/management. We will also learn techniques to improve the resilience and overall health of our bees\, drastically reducing the need for treatment for diseases and pests. Each class will feature time out in the bee-yard\, observing and physically interacting with the bees at Ancient Ponies Farm. \nFor more information and to register\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/beginning-beekeepers-mentorship-program/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200507T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200507T170000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200501T184237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200501T184248Z
UID:33849-1588867200-1588870800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Scenario planning during the pandemic
DESCRIPTION:In this Scenario Planning webinar\, Julia Shanks of The Farmer’s Office will discuss how to compare different opportunities to decide which direction to take your business.\n \nIn normal times\, we may want to compare different opportunities – like what if I purchase a greenhouse (and borrow $20\,000) or not. What impact does it have on my business and cash flow?  \nIn crazy times like now\, we’re still evaluating different options (like launching a CSA or doing pop-up farmers’ markets)\, though it all feels more urgent. Each opportunity comes with its own costs\, revenue potential\, and risk. So how do you compare them and do it fast?   \nIn this webinar we’ll discuss how to compare different opportunities to decide which direction to take your business. This webinar is free. Registration is required. Please register here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/webinar-scenario-planning-during-the-pandemic/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200509T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200509T113000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200303T144317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200303T144317Z
UID:32983-1589018400-1589023800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Spring Flowering Nests
DESCRIPTION:Spring Flowering Nests\nSaturday May 9\, 10-11:30 a.m. \nCelebrate spring and Mother’s Day by creating a woodland themed flowering “nest.” Using bark\, twigs\, lichens\, acorns\, moss\, and other foraged materials\, we’ll decorate compostable pots and plant them with dainty spring flowers.  Registration includes all supplies and light refreshments. $50.00 \nRegister for workshops from the Farm Events Calendar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/spring-flowering-nests/
LOCATION:Quonquont Farm\, Whately\, MA\,  
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200516T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200516T130000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185233
CREATED:20200430T120814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200430T120814Z
UID:33817-1589619600-1589634000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Great Barrington Farmers Market- opening
DESCRIPTION:The Great Barrington Farmers Market will be opening for its’ 30th season on May 16th\, at 9 am-1 pm at its’ Church Street location in downtown Great Barrington. The Market will continue to offer a dollar for dollar match on SNAP through the Market Match program. HIP benefits can be redeemed at five Market vendors. For the first weeks of the season\, the Market will look very different due to the outbreak of COVID-19. The market managers have taken into consideration recommendations and policies from local\, state\, and federal governments.  As well as guidance from Mass Farmers Markets and The Farmers Market Coalition. We hope that these measures will not be necessary for the entire season\, but will be in place until restrictions on social distancing are lifted. Please see below for a summary of restrictions. \n\nTo reduce browsing orders should be placed ahead of time whenever possible. A full list of participating vendors can be found on our website greatbarringtonfarmersmarket.org\nA special shopping hour for senior and high-risk Immunocompromised people will be available from 9 am-10 am\nAll shoppers are asked to wear masks.\nThere will be no eating or drinking at the market\nDogs will not be permitted at the market\nThere will be no public bathrooms\, seating areas\, or live music\nWe encourage shoppers to use minimal cash\nThere will be only one entrance to the market and the number of customers allowed in will be limited. It may be possible that you will need to wait in line to enter the market\nPlease only send one member of your household to the market whenever possible\nPlease make safe health choices. Do not come to the market if you are sick or have been sick in the last 14 days\n\nWe did not expect the market to look this way and we are holding onto hope that it won’t be like this for our entire season. COVID-19s impact on the local food economy is wide-reaching. Its’ amplification of food insecurity frightening. That is why we believe it is more important than ever for the market to provide an essential sales outlet for farmers and small food producers\, as well as access to fresh local foods for the food insecure. We appreciate in advance the support of the community as we open under these strange and difficult circumstances. There is so much about what the future looks like that we do not know. \nWith so much unknown\, let’s focus on our mission and what we believe. We believe in the power of food and regenerative agriculture. We believe in nurturing a resilient local food system. We believe in creating a culture of care and accessibility. We believe in the power of our small local economy. We believe each person\, regardless of means\, should have access to healthy food. We believe in Farmers and their essential role in society. We know will be back for the 2020 season. We know the market may look a bit different than it has in the past. New guidelines and systems designed to keep our community safe need to be instituted. We know you’ll help us with that. The opening of our Market is about one month away. We will keep you informed as the date draws closer. Until then buy local\, donate what you can\, and cook good food for the ones you love. We will see you at the Market.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/great-barrington-farmers-market-opening/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200517T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200517T120000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185234
CREATED:20200303T201255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200303T201255Z
UID:33018-1589706000-1589716800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Non-Traditional Uses for the Unheated High Tunnel
DESCRIPTION:Non-Traditional Uses for the Unheated High Tunnel \nTEACHER: Danny Botkin \nDATE: May 17th\nTIME: 9:00-12:00pm\nCOST: $30 \nDescription\nThere are numerous ways to design\, build\, adapt and exploit the power of high (and low) tunnel greenhouses\, besides just planting traditional row crops for market production. Passionate greenhouse practitioner\, Danny Botkin\, (Laughing Dog Farm) will share slides\, descriptions\, details and stories of various “niche” growing tactics\, seasonal “shortcuts” and unlikely opportunities gleaned in 14 years growing under hoophouse cover\, using a “four season\, hand-powered\, permacultural approach. As a group we’ll tour the new and rapidly evolving high tunnel greenhouse at Ancient Ponies\, lending our critical eyes to the multiple\, overlapping potential designs and uses of its ample\, interior space… \nFor more information and to register\, click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/non-traditional-uses-for-the-unheated-high-tunnel/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20200517T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20200517T140000
DTSTAMP:20260426T185234
CREATED:20200303T144448Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200303T144448Z
UID:32985-1589713200-1589724000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Valley Wedding Expo
DESCRIPTION:Valley Wed\nSunday May 17\, 11am-2pm \nNot your average wedding expo. Valley Wed at Quonquont Farm offers an alternative style of wedding show; one that focuses on real relationships with the best wedding vendors the area has to offer. We want to connect couples with the top wedding professionals to help them plan one of the most important days of their lives. Standard admission:  $8/person\, $14/couple; VIP tickets:  $20/person\, $35/couple \nRegister for workshops from the Farm Events Calendar.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/valley-wedding-expo/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR