BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture - ECPv6.15.15//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture
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/Halifax
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0300
TZNAME:ADT
DTSTART:20150308T060000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0300
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:AST
DTSTART:20151101T050000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0300
TZNAME:ADT
DTSTART:20160313T060000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0300
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:AST
DTSTART:20161106T050000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0300
TZNAME:ADT
DTSTART:20170312T060000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0300
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:AST
DTSTART:20171105T050000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160316T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160316T140000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160302T154418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160302T154418Z
UID:18401-1458129600-1458136800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Community Meeting and Discussion of two Food Security Projects
DESCRIPTION:You are invited to discuss and deliberate about two valuable western MA community based projects. The first is designed to connect food donors with recipient organizations along the I-91 corridor from Springfield to Greenfield (similar to but not the same as the Boston based smart phone app: “spoiler alert“). The second is a store in downtown Springfield (or in a location that would benefit the most people) that looks like an grocery and both sells and donates gleaned food. These two projects arose from a series of conversations and deliberations focused on food waste and sustainability held last year by the Center for Community Deliberation\, in partnership with NEPR and The Kettering Institute. There is widespread interest in both projects and our goal is to build collaborations for planning and later implementation of some version of these ideas. \nThe next community meeting will focus on these two projects. The first part of the meeting Emily Malina\, who helped develop Spoiler Alert\, will discuss that model and then we will divide into smaller groups to discuss obstacles and resources to developing something similar in our own region. The second half of the meeting we will discuss various models for a gleaning grocery to assess community and donor interest in the various forms such a store might take\, as well as location and logistics. Should the group decide to take up either or both of these projects\, we will arrange and organize further collaborations as well as provide consultants where possible. These potential projects align with the MA state food plan and we are in conversation with the state collaborative to address and implement food loss and recovery plans. \nHomemade will be provided. Please RSVP by email and pass along the invitation.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/community-meeting-and-discussion-of-two-food-security-projects/
LOCATION:New England Public Radio\, 1525 Main St\, Springfield\, MA\, 01103\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160317T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160317T190000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160217T200752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160217T200752Z
UID:18244-1458239400-1458241200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Community Garden Goal Setting/Importance of Testing Your Soil
DESCRIPTION:The Springfield Food Policy Council will host a series of workshops focused on community gardens and gardening. This one will focus on setting goals for your community garden and offers some guidance on testing the soil at potential garden spots. For more information and to register\, contact: Anna Muhammad – 413-214-1237.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/community-garden-goal-settingimportance-of-testing-your-soil/
LOCATION:Mason Square Library\, 765 State St\, Springfield\, MA 01109
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160319
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160321
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160120T221834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160120T221853Z
UID:17968-1458345600-1458518399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Poultry School at Stone Barns Center
DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION INFORMATION \n\nPoultry School is a two-day program running March 19 and 20.\nRegistration opens at 9:00am on February 17.\nProgram cost is $150.\nStay tuned for more information and a registration link.\nA block of rooms has been set aside for a reduced rate at the Sheraton Tarrytown\, located at 600 White Plains Road\, Tarrytown\, NY 10591. Please follow this link to reserve a room or contact the Sheraton directly at (914) 332-7900.   A complimentary shuttle will be available to transfer Sheraton hotel guests to and from the conference in the mornings and evenings.  This special rate will end on March 2.\nFor questions\, please write to laurief@stonebarnscenter.org.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/poultry-school-at-stone-barns-center/
LOCATION:Stone Barns Center\, Pocantico Hills\, NY\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160319
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160321
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160304T152355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160304T152355Z
UID:18444-1458345600-1458518399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:2016 Massachusetts Maple Weekend
DESCRIPTION:To celebrate Maple Weekend\, March 19-20\, many restaurants will be featuring delicious appetizers\, entrees\, side dishes\, deserts and cocktails made with Massachusetts maple syrup. Come out to support local businesses and eat some delicious food! \nFor the full list of participating restaurants visit www.massmaple.org/mwrestaurants.php
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/2016-massachusetts-maple-weekend/
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T130000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160203T182917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160203T182917Z
UID:18069-1458378000-1458392400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Pruning and Grafting Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Spring is the season for pruning and grafting\, two skills necessary for healthy trees. Pruning allows air flow through your trees to minimize fungal diseases\, and can cause old trees to fruit again. This workshop will cover pruning trees of all ages\, including recovery pruning for abandoned trees. Grafting allows for changes in the apple varieties that trees grow\, including having multiple varieties grow on one tree. Participants will practice grafting techniques and observe the outcome of grafts over time in the Bear Swamp orchard. \nCost includes a farmstead continental lunch. Workshops are capped at 12 participants; to sign up go to and buy a ticket online here. Contact us if you have any questions\, hope to see you.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/pruning-and-grafting-workshop/
LOCATION:Bear Swamp Orchards\, Ashfield\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T150000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160307T212106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160307T212106Z
UID:18464-1458392400-1458399600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Garden Season Extension
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate spring! Join Seeds of Solidarity founders and farmers Ricky Baruc and Deb Habib for a free workshop on garden season extension\, including how to make low tunnels (mini-greenhouses) and suggestions for cool weather crops to get your garden going nice and early. The workshop will be held at the Orange Innovation Center (OIC)\, 131 W. Main St\, Orange\, 3rd floor\, with some time possible outdoors as well.  All are welcome.  Free\, no-registration necessary\, but the workshop starts promptly at 1PM. Seeds of Solidarity will have a hoop bender available to use\, and participants are welcome (but not required) to bring a few 10 foot pieces of half-inch Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) available at building supply stores in order to bend some hoops to make season extension tunnels for their own garden at the end of the workshop. Offered by Seeds of Solidarity to help local residents ‘Grow Food Everywhere\,’ and with gratitude for the use of OIC meeting space.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-garden-season-extension/
LOCATION:Orange Innovation Center\, 131 West Main Street\, Orange\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T150000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160318T130410Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160318T130410Z
UID:18593-1458392400-1458399600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Soapmaking
DESCRIPTION:In this class\, we will make a basic batch of cold-processed soap using all-natural carrier oils\, commercial lye & essential oils. We will discuss how you can formulate your own recipe based on your needs\, as well as colorants\, exfoliants\, hot-processed soap & how you can make your own lye. \nAll participants are invited to take home a free bar of the soap we make in class\, once it has hardened (1-4 weeks). \nAdmission to this workshop is $40. For more information and to register visit The Haberdashery website. \nTaught by Melody\, Co-Founder of The Haberdashery.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-soapmaking/
LOCATION:The Haberdashery\, 52 Union Street\, Easthampton\, MA\, 01027\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160319T200000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160222T230530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160223T231907Z
UID:18311-1458417600-1458417600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:The 7th (mostly) Annual Full-Belly Benefit Dance Party
DESCRIPTION:The Full-Belly Benefit Dance Party was created eight years ago to capture the incredible outpouring of support and community involvement during the Obama campaign and turn some of that attention to our local community. \nThe sponsors of this event are local farmers\, educators\, and food purveyors who recognize the importance of strengthening food security\, both at the immediate level\, through the work of Amherst Survival Center and the Northampton Survival Centers\, through Kestrel Land Trust‘s long term efforts to protect local farmland\, and this year through CISA’s Local Food For All Campaign. Those who attended any of the past events can attest that we had walloping good times dancing the night away — and raising over $4000!  This year The No-No’s and special guest Trailer Swift will provide us with toe tapping dance tunes\, our co-sponsors will provide us with snacks\, and various artisans will provide us with a cash bar featuring local libations. And new this year\, we will have a 50/50 cash raffle as we do our best to raise as much money for our recipients as possible. Click over to the Facebook event page for more information. \n\n\nTickets are $10 at the door\n\nAdvance tickets available at A.J. Hastings  and State Street Fruit Store\n\nSponsored By:\n\nArtifact Cider\, Book and Plow Farm\, Brookfield Farm\, CISA\, Crimson & Clover Farm\, The Farmer’s Pantry\, Foxtown Farm\, Grow Food Northampton\, Hungry Ghost Bakery\, Mi Tierra Tortillas\, Naturopathic Health Care (Drs Amy Rothenberg & Paul Herscu)\, Natural Roots\, Next Barn Over\, Old Friends Farm\, The Organic Gourmet (The Organic Gourmet)\, Paul & Elizabeth’s Restaurant\,  Queen’s Greens\, Real Pickles\, Riverland Farm\,Simple Gifts Farm\, Small One’s Farm\, Thyme Herbal\, Valley Malt\,Wheelhouse Farm Food Truck\, Winter Moon Roots.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/the-7th-mostly-annual-full-belly-benefit-dance-party/
LOCATION:JCA Social Hall\, 742 Main St.\, Amherst
CATEGORIES:Community Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Brookfield Farm":MAILTO:info@brookfieldfarm.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160320T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160320T130000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160318T131105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160318T131105Z
UID:18596-1458475200-1458478800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Cultured Dairy
DESCRIPTION:Making dairy ferments at home is a delicious\, fun and cost-effective way to add probiotics to your diet\, and make lactose more digestable. In this class we will cover how to make yogurt\, kefir & simple fresh cheeses. We will make yogurt\, kefir and one simple cheese. Taste our homemade dairy ferments during class! \nIf you’re intrigued by fermentation\, but don’t know where to start\, this is the course for you! Cultured Dairy is the second of a 3 session fermentation course. Participants are welcome to take one or all classes in the course. The two other sessions in the course will focus on Fermenting Vegetables and Probiotic Beverages. \nThe admission to this workshop is $35. For more information and to register visit The Haberdashery website. \nTaught by Melody\, Co-Founder of The Haberdashery.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-cultured-dairy-3/
LOCATION:The Haberdashery\, 52 Union Street\, Easthampton\, MA\, 01027\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160320T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160320T160000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160304T152108Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160304T152108Z
UID:18442-1458482400-1458489600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:MAAC Maple Sugaring Open House
DESCRIPTION:Massachusetts Maple Producers Association members celebrate sugaring with its annual Maple Weekend on March 19 & 20\, by opening their sugarhouses for tours\, selling treats\, and giving out samples of hot-off-the-evaporator syrup. \nMassachusetts Association of Agriculture Commissions invites you to come see its Vice President of Education Steve Damon in his agricultural element on Sunday\, March 20\, at Graves Sugarhouse in Shelburne. \nAt the MAAC Maple Sugaring Open House\, sugarers Jim & Lauretta Graves and Steve & Isaac Damon will give tours of the sugarbush and sugarhouse. They will also explain the labor of love that produces the first crop of the growing season. And\, yes\, free samples will be giving out. \nWear boots! \nFor more information visit the facebook event page www.facebook.com/events/917499178357798/
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/maac-maple-sugaring-open-house/
LOCATION:Graves Sugarhouse\, 123 Wilson Graves Rd\, Shelburne\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160322T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160322T170000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160302T160938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160302T163005Z
UID:18406-1458633600-1458666000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Agritourism
DESCRIPTION:“Agritourism” attractions are increasingly popular to tourists and locals alike.  Have an interest in becoming part of the growing “Agritourism” trend in Massachusetts? Join us for the first in a series of workshops with successful agritourism businesses and tourism professionals on how to plan for and promote tourism at your farm. These free\, half-day workshops will offer practical resources and first steps for those interested in entering this growing market. This workshop will focus on value-added products and pick-your-own. \nFor more information and to register visit www.massvacation.com/focus-on-agritourism/ \nHosted by Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\, the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism\, and the Massachusetts Office on Disability
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-agritourism/
LOCATION:Red Apple Farm\, 455 Highland Avenue\, Phillipston\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160323T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160323T180000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160318T132343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160318T132343Z
UID:18603-1458748800-1458756000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Listening Session for the Pollinator Protection Plan
DESCRIPTION:The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is seeking public comment on the state\n Pollinator Protection Plan - Draft. Please note that this document is a draft and will be finalized after a comment review period. Comments can be sent to the following email address: Kim.Skyrm@state.ma.us  with the subject line "Pollinator Plan Comments." \nThe deadline to submit comments is March 31\, 2016.\n\nListening sessions have been planned throughout the state for stakeholders who wish to provide public comments in person on the Pollinator Protection Plan draft. A listening session will be held in Amherst on Wednesday March\, 23rd at the MDAR Office at 4:00 pm.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/listening-session-for-the-pollinator-protection-plan/
LOCATION:MDAR Amherst Office\, 101 University Drive\, Suite C4\, Amherst\, MA\, 01002
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160324T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160324T200000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160323T124931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160323T124931Z
UID:18651-1458842400-1458849600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: The Art of Fermentation
DESCRIPTION:Come learn how simple it is to make your own mixed vegetable kraut. Learn about the healing qualities and nutritional importance of live-culture ferments\, as well as their illustrious history and integral role in human cultural evolution. Empower yourself with simple techniques for fermenting these healthful foods in your home. Be part of the fermentation revival! \nThis free hands-on workshop is limited to 100 participants. Each participant will be able to take home their own homemade mixed vegetable kraut. PLEASE SIGN UP AT bit.ly/sandorkatzumass TO GUARANTEE YOURSELF A SPOT.\nUPDATE: ALL PARTICIPANT SPOTS ARE TAKEN BUT PLEASE CONTINUNE TO SIGN UP TO BE ON OUR WAITING LIST. WE WILL HAVE ENOUGH SEATING FOR EVERYONE BUT ONLY ENOUGH SUPPLIES FOR 100 PEOPLE. \nPlease arrive on time. We may not be able to hold your spot if you are not present by 6:00pm. \nSandor Ellix Katz is a fermentation revivalist. His books Wild Fermentation (2003) and the Art of Fermentation (2012)\, along with the hundreds of fermentation workshops he has taught around the world\, have helped to catalyze a broad revival of the fermentation arts. A self-taught experimentalist who lives in rural Tennessee\, the New York Times calls him “one of the unlikely rock stars of the American food scene.” The Art of Fermentation received a James Beard award\, and Sandor was honored with the Craig Claiborne Lifetime Achievement Award from the Southern Foodways Alliance. For more information\, check out Sandor’s websitewww.wildfermentation.com.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-the-art-of-fermentation/
LOCATION:UMass Campus Center Auditorium\, 1 Campus Center Way\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160324T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160324T210000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160302T161601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160302T161601Z
UID:18409-1458842400-1458853200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Massachusetts Poultry Enhancement Council Meeting
DESCRIPTION:This meeting of the Massachusetts Poultry Enhancement Council will focus on the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). \nAgenda: \n1. Why was the Indiana Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak different from the 2014-2015 HPAI outbreak? \n2. The importance of a Biosecurity plan to indemnity payments for HPAI. \n3. Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) role in a HPAI. \n4. Antibiotics and vaccines for poultry. What's available?\n\nThis is an open meeting\, anyone who may have an interest in poultry is encouraged to attend\n\n Directions to the location can be found at www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/about-masswildlife/field-headquarters.html
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/massachusetts-poultry-enhancement-council-meeting-2/
LOCATION:MA Fish and Wildlife Office\, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd\, Westborough\, MA\, 01581\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160325T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160325T210000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160318T132654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160318T132654Z
UID:18604-1458932400-1458939600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Ancestral Potluck and Recipe Exchange
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening of sharing food and recipes from our families and ancestral past! Bring a dish & recipe to share with the group that reflects your family or family history. \n\n\n\n\nDETAILS \n+ Please bring a dish to share with the group. You may bring any dish you like within the theme of family recipes or ancestral recipes. This could be a recipe that’s been handed down through generations\, your favorite recipe from your family’s ancestral homeland\, a cultural dish from your cultural background\, or anything that reflects the history of your family or cultural background.\n\n+ Think of recipes that have meaning to you or your family. Even if it’s simple! Something that reflects your familial\, cultural\, ethnic\, or ancestral background. Along the lines of grandma’s cookie recipe from her mother’s homeland in Poland rather than grandma’s secret chocolate chip cookie recipe. Of course\, if your family has created its own history\, that’s great too!\n\n+ In addition to your dish\, consider bringing a printed copy of your recipe to share with others. If you prefer to save on paper\, we will have a recipe mailing list sign-up for everyone to share their recipes digitally.\n\n+ Bonus points for sharing the story\, meaning\, or history behind your dish! \n\n+ Feel free to bring beverages too! No need to limit to just foods for this (or any) potluck.\n\n+ As always\, utensils\, drink ware\, and plates will be provided. Bringing serving utensils for your dish is appreciated.\n\n+ This is event is FREE and open to all!\n\n\n\nFor more info and to RSVP\, visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/234666470209022/\n\n\nFor directions to the shop click here: http://www.thebowerstudio.com/pages/store
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/ancestral-potluck-and-recipe-exchange/
LOCATION:The Bower Studio\, 378 Daniel Shays Highway\, Pelham\, MA\, 01002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160326T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160326T163000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160203T212958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160203T212958Z
UID:18089-1458990000-1459009800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:41st Annual Gardeners Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Join Trustees and the City of Boston to kick off the growing season! Enjoy a day full of learning\, networking and fun. Choose from more than two dozen workshops covering an array of topics including  seed starting\, composting\, urban beekeeping\, making sauerkraut\, and community and youth organizing\, and celebrate the winners of the ever-popular Community Garden Awards.  Meet other gardeners (or wannabe gardeners) and learn about Boston-area agriculture\, gardening\, and environmental organizations through the information gallery.  Walk-in registration starts at 11:00\, opening plenary at noon. \nKeynote Address & Breakfast:\nDimensions of Change through Community Gardening \n9:30 – 10:30 AM\, Trustees members: $15; nonmembers: $25 \nWe are excited to welcome leading social entrepreneur Daniel Ross to this year’s Gathering. Daniel is the CEO of Daisa Enterprises\, specializing in supporting development of food and environmental enterprises and programs in underserved communities. He is also a Visiting Assistant Professor of Social Entrepreneurship at Hampshire College. \nAs the Executive Director of Nuestra Raices in Holyoke\, MA he spent sixteen years developing projects relating to food\, agricultue and the environment. He also served as the Chief Operating Officer of the Wholesome Wave Charitable Foundation Ventures where he worked to reinvent the world we eat in with innovative programs and policy solutions.  Register here for keynote: http://www.thetrustees.org/things-to-do/greater-boston/event-23323.html \nWant to present a workshop?  Please submit your RFP here by Friday\, February 26th: http://bit.ly/1nw3JFO
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/41st-annual-gardeners-gathering/
LOCATION:Northeastern University\, 260 Huntington Avenue\, Boston\, MA\, 02115\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160329T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160329T150000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160224T150732Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160224T150732Z
UID:18324-1459242000-1459263600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Northeast Harvest Agricultural Conference
DESCRIPTION:Northeast Harvest will host the Annual Northeast Harvest Agricultural Conference at Topsfield fairgrounds. \nYou will have the opportunity to receive three SPRAY credits. For more information and to register\, please CLICK HERE.\n\nThe $20 Pre-Registration Fee Includes: \n\nMorning Coffee and Afternoon Lunch\nWorker Protection Standards by Laurie A Rocco – SPRAY Credit\nAvian Flu Update and More about Backyard Poultry by Megan Megrath\nFinancing for Farmers by Mike Mcphail & Dorothy Suput\nAgritourism and Agritainment by Dale Johnson\nReview of the 2015 Growing Season by George Hamilton – SPRAY Credit\nProtect yourself from TICKS by Dr. Alan Eaton – SPRAY Credit\n\nThis event is open to the public.\n  Day of registration is $25
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/northeast-harvest-agricultural-conference/
LOCATION:Coolidge Hall\, Topsfield Fairgrounds\, Topsfield\, MA\, 01983\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160330T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160330T200000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20151112T225330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160120T194832Z
UID:17068-1459359000-1459368000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA Winter Workshop Series: Business Decision Making Cohort Meeting #3
DESCRIPTION:CISA will hold a ten-workshop series on Reducing Risk & Increasing Profitability with Sound Decision Making starting in January 2016. These workshops will provide tools for and examples of building decision making into the cycles of farm life to improve long-term profitability and sustainability. Participation in the whole series is encouraged\, and to be eligible for free one-on-one consultative support\, you must attend three workshops and be a cohort meeting participant. Dinner will be served at each session.  The cost to attend the series is $90 for Local Hero members\, or $18 for each individual workshop. The non-member fee is $110 for the series\, or $20 for each individual workshop. Contact Devon Whitney-Deal or call (413) 665-7100 x22 with any questions or register below. If cost is a barrier to your participation please feel free to contact Devon to discuss options as we want everyone to be able to get the training they need to effectively operate their business. \nThese meeting will give winter workshop participants the opportunity to network with one another and also provide additional time to discuss and consider their own individual farm needs as it relates to the workshop topics. Each session will have a CISA staff facilitator and a farmer Expert (Missy Bahret–Old Friends Farm\, Pete Solis– Hampshire College Farm\, and Gary Gemme– Harvest Farm of Whately). The topics for the meeting will be determined based on participant interest and determined as the class date gets closer. \nLocal Hero member- $90Non-Local Hero member- $110   \n  \nLocal Hero member- $18Non-Local Hero member- $20  \n\n   \n\n \n\n\nFunding for CISA’s Reducing Risk & Increasing Profitability with Sound Decision Making Series is provided by the Northeast Center for Risk Management Education and by individual contributors and Local Hero members. This series is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2012-49200-20031. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/business-decision-making-cohort-meeting-3/
LOCATION:TBD
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160331T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160331T170000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160302T161050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160302T162915Z
UID:18408-1459411200-1459443600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Agritourism
DESCRIPTION:“Agritourism” attractions are increasingly popular to tourists and locals alike.  Have an interest in becoming part of the growing “Agritourism” trend in Massachusetts? Join us for the first in a series of workshops with successful agritourism businesses and tourism professionals on how to plan for and promote tourism at your farm. These free\, half-day workshops will offer practical resources and first steps for those interested in entering this growing market. This workshop will focus on being a special event’s venue and farm-to-table dinners.  \nFor more information and to register visit www.massvacation.com/focus-on-agritourism/ \nHosted by Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\, the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism\, and the Massachusetts Office on Disability
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-agritourism-2/
LOCATION:Smolak Farms\, 315 South Bradford Street\, North Andover\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T123000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160330T130939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160330T131023Z
UID:18720-1459591200-1459600200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Beecentric Methods of Beekeeping
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by the UMass Amherst Beekeeping Club\, Michael Joshin Thiele\, of Gaia Bees\, will help us redefine our relationship with bees and create a new paradigm of caring for bees. Participants will learn about a biodynamic approach to apiculture\, the unique matrix of life of honeybees and their intricate inner organization. How can we heal the earth through healing the life of bees? Michael will speak about biodynamic apiculture and a treatment free\, bee-centered approach. Topics may include alternative hive designs\, working with natural comb\, biodynamic management techniques\, the examination of core principles of their instinctual needs\, self sustaining apiaries & design\, health and more. \nThis workshop will take place on Saturday April 2nd in Fernald Auditorium Room 11 from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM. \nThis event is FREE for UMass Students. $20 for public. \nCheck out the facebook page and come join us for a fun day!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-beecentric-methods-of-beekeeping/
LOCATION:Fernald Hall\, UMASS Amherst Campus
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T160000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160315T200457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160315T200457Z
UID:18564-1459591200-1459612800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Valley Vegfest
DESCRIPTION:Now in it’s third year\, Valley Vegfest will once again feature passionate speakers\, vegan food vendors\, veg-friendly products and services\, and non-profit organizations dedicated to animal welfare\, healthy living\, and environmental advocacy. Registration is now open for sponsors and exhibitors.  Please see the sponsor or exhibitor information for full details and download the application form. \nValley Vegfest will gather vegan natural food and cruelty-free product providers\, along with interesting speakers and educational exhibitors\, for a fun community event.  It will be an opportunity to enjoy food from a variety of vendors\, learn about new products\, and try free samples. \nWhether you are a longtime vegetarian\, vegan\, or anyone wanting to learn about new nutritious and delicious foods\, alternatives to animal products\, and the many health and environmental benefits of a plant-based diet\, we invite you to join in the festivities at Valley Vegfest!  Admission is free and everyone is welcome!  Donations are much appreciated. \nValley Veg is an alliance of animal welfare\, healthy eating\, and environmental advocates in the Pioneer Valley.  There are several affiliate groups that are active in different ways\, from circus and puppy mill protests\, to legislative hearings\, to consciousness-raising film screenings and joyful community potluck dinners.  We are always happy to see new faces at our events – to find out more about veg news and happenings in the Valley\, please visit www.valleyveg.org
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/valley-vegfest-2/
LOCATION:JFK Middle School\, 100 Bridge Road\, Florence\, MA\, 01062\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T130000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160318T131418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160318T131418Z
UID:18599-1459594800-1459602000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Garden Planning
DESCRIPTION:The first step towards a successful garden is a good plan. \nIn this interactive workshop you will walk away with a planting diagram for your edible garden this year. We’ll touch on all of the issues that inform planting decisions: plant characteristics\, crop rotation\, soil characteristics\, companion planting & aesthetics. We’ll also discuss garden layout\, planting schedules & extending the season. \nPlease come prepared–the more you know about your plot\, the more we we can help you make a solid plan. Take note of your garden’s layout\, size\, slope\, sun exposure\, soil characteristics & condition\, drainage\, and past successes & failures. \nAdmission to this workshop is $40. For more information and to register visit The Haberdashery website. \nTaught by Melody Figge\, Co-Founder of The Haberdashery
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-garden-planning/
LOCATION:The Haberdashery\, 52 Union Street\, Easthampton\, MA\, 01027\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160402T170000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160323T140938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160323T140938Z
UID:18670-1459605600-1459616400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Mushroom Cultivation
DESCRIPTION:Join Willie Crosby of Fungi Ally for this hands on workshop exploring the fungi kingdom. Participants will learn the basic mushroom life cycle and ecological roles fungi play. We will demonstrate how mushrooms can be grown in the garden on woodchips\, logs and stumps. All participants will get to inoculate and take home a mushroom log! \nThis is a FREE workshop but space is limited to 30 participants. Call 413-665-2642 to sign up and visit the website for more information.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-mushroom-cultivation/
LOCATION:Sunderland Public Library\, 20 School Street\, Sunderland
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160403T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160403T150000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160318T131627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160318T131627Z
UID:18600-1459688400-1459695600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Workshop: Probiotic Beverages
DESCRIPTION:Whether you love the taste\, the health benefits\, or both\, brewing your own probiotic soft drinks at home is a fun\, delicious & cost-effective way to add probiotics to your diet. This class will cover how to make kombucha\, water kefir & wild-fermented sodas at home. You will sample our homebrewed beverages and learn how to make your own\, hands-on. \nIf you’re intrigued by fermentation\, but don’t know where to start\, this is the course for you! Probiotic Beverages is the third of a 3 session fermentation course. Participants are welcome to take one or all classes in the course.The other two sessions in this course focus on Cultured Dairy and Fermenting Vegetables. \nAdmission to this workshop is $35. For more information and to register visit The Haberdashery website. \nTaught by Melody\, Co-Founder of The Haberdashery
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/workshop-probiotic-beverages-3/
LOCATION:The Haberdashery\, 52 Union Street\, Easthampton\, MA\, 01027\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160404T171500
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160404T193000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160325T160202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160404T185012Z
UID:18694-1459790100-1459798200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:RESCHEDULED: Farmer/Buyer Meet & Greet Networking
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: This meeting has been rescheduled for next Monday\, April 11. See the updated event listing here.\n \nCISA is holding its spring networking meeting for Local Hero farmers to meet with buyers who are interested in purchasing local products for their businesses. This meeting will be a great opportunity for all buyers and Local Hero farm members to network\, meet one another\, and forge new business relationships. In addition\, Sean Stolarik\, Big Y Produce Sales Manager\, will discuss how local farms can develop a wholesale relationship with Big Y. Refreshments will be provided. To RSVP or if you have questions\, contact Devon Whitney-Deal at 413-665-7100\, ext. 22.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farmerbuyer-meet-greet-networking/
LOCATION:Holyoke Community College Kittredge Center Room 301\, 303 Homestead Ave\, Holyoke\, 01040
CATEGORIES:CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160405T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160405T140000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160302T162252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160302T162252Z
UID:18411-1459848600-1459864800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Massachusetts Agriculture Day
DESCRIPTION:Ag Day at the State House is an event where MA farmers basically take over the State House. There are booths and local food in the Great Hall. FFA and 4H students take over Nurse’s Hall\, the Grand Staircase is turned into a podium for farm organizations\, and virtually every hallway will have farmers in it on their way to speak to their legislators. This is a good time to meet with legislators and their aides to highlight the opportunities and barriers for farms in Massachusetts.  It’s also a good time to meet with other farmers from around the state\, network\, and discuss issues. If you haven’t been to Ag Day before\, you should really go. No event puts so many farmers\, Ag organizations and legislators together in one place with the express purpose of discussing agriculture and issues impacting it.\n\n\n\n\n\nThe schedule is as follows: \n\n9:30 am — 11:30 am\nRegistration—Bartlett Hall\n10:00 am\nFarmer Orientation on Agricultural Issues—Nurses Hall\n10:00 am — 11:15 am\nFarmer/Legislator Visits\n11:15 am — 12:15 pm\nSpeaking Program—Nurses Hall\n11:00 am\nPreview Reception for Legislators (by invitation only)\n12:00 pm\n“Taste of Massachusetts” Reception & Exhibits—Great Hall & Grand Staircase Area\n\nFor the Farmer/Legislator visits\, you can learn who your legislators are at https://malegislature.gov/People/Search \nMany counties arrange buses or ride sharing into Boston. So if you’re worried about driving or traffic\, contact your county president.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/massachusetts-agriculture-day/
LOCATION:Massachusetts Statehouse\, 24 Beacon St\, Boston\, MA\, 02133\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160405T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160405T200000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160318T151712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160318T154928Z
UID:18616-1459877400-1459886400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Farmers' Market Manager Forum
DESCRIPTION:Every year\, CISA brings market managers together for a time to meet\, share best practices\, and learn from one another. This year\, farmers’ market managers from around the Pioneer Valley will gather at the Senior Center in Holyoke to get ideas for new concepts and ways to improve the overall operation of their markets. CISA welcomes market managers\, steering committee members\, and market volunteers to this forum. Come with your questions\, and be willing to share your valuable thoughts and experiences. Feel free to spread the invitation to those you think would find it beneficial to network with other market managers. \n\nSome of the areas that many of you have expressed interest in discussing and sharing experiences in are:\n\n\nLocal Food for All – CISA’s SNAP fundraising initiative\nWho can participate in SNAP & SAVE\, and how?\nHIP (Healthy Incentives Program) reminder (FINI)\nCustomer loyalty programs\nCommunity outreach – CISA update for SNAP & SAVE\nHow can CISA help support your market this season?\n\n\nLight dinner will be provided. Please RSVP to Innocent at 413-665-7100\, ext. 26\, by Friday\, April 1st. Feel free to contact Innocent or Devon with any questions.\n\n\nFunding for this workshop has been provided by the Farmers Market Promotion Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/farmers-market-manager-forum-2/
LOCATION:Holyoke Senior Center\, 291 Pine Street\, Holyoke\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160406T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160406T163000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160330T131903Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160330T131958Z
UID:18724-1459945800-1459960200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Spring Farmers' Market and Celebration
DESCRIPTION:The UMass Student Farm will have its Spring Farmers Market and Celebration on Wednesday April 6th. \nCome hang out with the 2016 Student Farm Crew\, UMass Permaculture and other delightful vendors will enjoying music by Industrial Waste (The Stockbridge Faculty bluegrass band) and August Joy. \nPerformers:\n12:30-1:30 Industrial Waste (The Stockbridge Faculty bluegrass band)\n2:00-4:00 August Joy \nCheck out the facebook event! \nStick around after for the New Farmer Panel-Expo!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/spring-farmers-market-and-celebration/
LOCATION:Cape Cod Lounge\, 280 Hicks Way\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160406T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160406T180000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160330T132436Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160406T130725Z
UID:18728-1459958400-1459965600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:New Farmer Panel and Expo
DESCRIPTION:A committed group of UMass students part of John Gerber’s Writing for Sustainability\, have come together to pull off a 2 hour long new farmer panel-expo! This event will provide a space for creative dialogue highlighting the emerging possibilities in sustainable agriculture regarding the rise of a diverse new generation of young farmers. \nThe expo will be thriving from 4:00pm to 4:30pm with refreshments and networking time. Then\, starting at 4:30pm\, a diverse panel of four new farmer community members will answer questions for half an hour. After\, the knowledge is served tabling and resource networking will continue until 6:00pm with local\, organic treats from Earthfoods and People’s Market. We hope to see you all there!! \nRepresentatives from organizations offering financial\, land access\, and technical resources to farmers will have informational booths.   \nThe purpose of this event is to gather new farmers of diverse backgrounds\, identities and ages\, in order to provide them with resources to work successfully in inclusive farm settings.  Please come\, and bring a farmer friend! \nCheck out the facebook event! The Panel and Expo will be happening right after the UMass Student Farm Spring Farmers Market.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/new-farmer-panel-and-expo/
LOCATION:Earthwoods Cafe\,  Campus Center Way\, Amherst\, MA\, 01003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20160406T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20160406T200000
DTSTAMP:20260610T044948
CREATED:20160329T191709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160329T192129Z
UID:18712-1459965600-1459972800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Community Forum
DESCRIPTION:Developed as part of The Food Bank’s strategic plan\, the Task Force to End Hunger is a diverse group of thought leaders\, from all four counties of Western Massachusetts\, working to develop a bold\, yet pragmatic plan of action to end hunger in our region. \nWe’ll be leading a conversation aimed at finding long-term solutions to hunger\, as we bring together members of the community to share real stories about the obstacles they face every day. \nBut we can’t do it without your help. We need to hear your experiences and ideas. We want you to participate and offer your suggestions about how we can create a Western Massachusetts where no one goes hungry and everyone has access to healthy food. \nFree parking is available at Springfield Technology Park. This event is free and open to the public. \nSeating for this event is limited. Reserve your place by e-mailing us today.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/food-bank-of-western-massachusetts-community-forum/
LOCATION:STCC Scibelli Hall\, 1 Federal Street\, Springfield\, MA\, 01105
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR