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X-WR-CALNAME:CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture
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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240506T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240506T150000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240420T084156Z
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UID:46685-1715004000-1715007600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:SNAP training for farm & farmers' market staff (session one)
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nMake sure your farm stand and farmers’ market staff are ready to accept SNAP this summer by having them attend this SNAP employee training. \nEmployees will learn SNAP basics including what EBT cards look like\, what items are SNAP eligible\, how to run a SNAP transaction\, and the differences between SNAP and HIP. Attendees will come away knowing how SNAP works\, how to answer questions around SNAP and HIP\, and how to successfully and legally run a transaction on Conduent and TotilPay machines. \nThis training will also cover the SNAP protocols and rules that the USDA requires businesses to cover with their employees every year. A list of employees who attended the training can be provided to the employer\, to satisfy the USDA’s requirement that SNAP trainings for staff be documented. \nThis training is for employees who will be processing SNAP transactions. Open to all staff of farm businesses or farmers’ markets that accept SNAP. \nThis session is being offered at two times which you can choose from: Monday\, May 6\, 2:00-3:15pm or Thursday\, May 9\, 10:30-11:45am. \n\nRegister here for Session 1 on May 6th!\nRegister here for Session 2 May 9th!\n\nContact Jim Simon at jim@buylocalfood.org or 413-665-7100 ext. 18 with questions.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/snap-training-for-farm-farmers-market-staff-session-one/
LOCATION:Remote
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240506T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240506T190000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240401T180313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240401T180313Z
UID:46472-1715011200-1715022000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Caretaker Farm: Soil Health
DESCRIPTION:What is soil? What defines the quality of soil? How do you determine the quality of your soil? How do you try to preserve and improve your soil? During the visit to Caretaker Farm we will discuss the importance of soil health for the sustainability of your farm. We will also tour the land and observe how our soil health fits into the environmental sustainability of the farm. \nCaretaker Farm is a 34-acre diversified farm that includes a 270 family vegetable CSA\, a bakery\, bees\, chickens\, pigs\, ponds\, pastures\, hills\, forest\, and a stream. Click here for more information. \nDate: Monday\, May 6\, 4:00 PM  7:00 PM \nLocation: 1210 Hancock Rd\, Williamstown\, MA 01267
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/caretaker-farm-soil-health/
LOCATION:Caretaker Farm\, 1210 Hancock Rd\, Williamstown\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240509T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240509T113000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240420T093019Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240424T124506Z
UID:46690-1715250600-1715254200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:SNAP training for farm & farmers’ market staff (session two)
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nMake sure your farm stand and farmers’ market staff are ready to accept SNAP this summer by having them attend this SNAP employee training. \nEmployees will learn SNAP basics including what EBT cards look like\, what items are SNAP eligible\, how to run a SNAP transaction\, and the differences between SNAP and HIP. Attendees will come away knowing how SNAP works\, how to answer questions around SNAP and HIP\, and how to successfully and legally run a transaction on Conduent and TotilPay machines. \nThis training will also cover the SNAP protocols and rules that the USDA requires businesses to cover with their employees every year. A list of employees who attended the training can be provided to the employer\, to satisfy the USDA’s requirement that SNAP trainings for staff be documented. \nThis training is for employees who will be processing SNAP transactions. Open to all staff of farm businesses or farmers’ markets that accept SNAP. \nThis session is being offered at two times which you can choose from: Monday\, May 6\, 2:00-3:15pm or Thursday\, May 9\, 10:30-11:45am. \n\nRegister here for Session 1 on May 6th!\nRegister here for Session 2 May 9th!\n\nContact Jim Simon at jim@buylocalfood.org or 413-665-7100 ext. 18 with questions.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/snap-training-for-farm-farmers-market-staff-session-two/
LOCATION:Remote
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240511T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240511T120000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240227T133639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240227T133639Z
UID:46144-1715418000-1715428800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Navigating the new normal- power equipment and implements on the farm and homestead
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nAre you confused on how to enter into the realm of tractors\, implements and power equipment? There are many time and labor saving pieces of equipment available lately and with rampant sticker shock everywhere\, how do you choose what to buy? \nFor those who have equipment already\, how do I maintain it? Can I repair it?  Should I repair it\, or bite the bullet and upgrade?  Interested in starting a new enterprise on the farm? What will I need? \nWe will discuss these and other subjects. I am a diesel mechanic\, certified welder and farmer with 40 years of experience with agricultural and construction equipment. You’ll have access to insights and experience that will help you confidently delve into the world of power equipment\, implements and tractors. \nClick here for more information! \nEvent Details: \n\nSaturday\, May 11\, 2024\n9am-12noon with pot luck lunch\nPrice: $50 – $100 sliding scale\nPresenter: Dave Petrovick with support from Jonathan Anderson
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/navigating-the-new-normal-power-equipment-and-implements-on-the-farm-and-homestead/
LOCATION:Many Hands Sustainability Center\, 411 Sheldon Road\, Barre\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240513T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240513T173000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240328T043100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240411T141905Z
UID:46425-1715616000-1715621400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Impacts of Increasing Annual Temperatures for New England Farms
DESCRIPTION:Register here!  \nJoin CISA and Sara Kelemen from the USDA Northeast Climate Hub on Monday\, May 13th\, 4-5:30pm for the annual Adapt Your Farm to Climate Change webinar and workshop series kick-off event. The 2024 series focuses on the impacts of increasing temperatures throughout the year on specific parts of our food system\, including soils\, weeds and pests\, farmworker health and safety\, heat tolerant crops\, urban farms and others. \nSara will share climate and temperature data from New England and discuss some examples of how temperature change will impact agricultural operations. Sara has been working on diversified farms for 8 years\, and manages climate adaptation and mitigation planning programs for many types of farmers with the Climate Hub and other partners. \nThrough webinars and on-farm workshops\, participants in this year’s events will learn about adaptation practices and how to implement them\, hear from technical assistance providers and converse with farmers on their experiences making changes on their farms. See this year’s full schedule here and see you on the 13th! \nThis material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2023-70027-40447.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/impacts-of-increasing-annual-temperatures-for-new-england-farms/
LOCATION:Remote
CATEGORIES:Climate Events,CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240516T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240516T183000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240318T185752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240318T185752Z
UID:46343-1715878800-1715884200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Climate Adaptive Gardening Series: Mill River Floods\, Past & Present
DESCRIPTION:On the 150th Anniversary of the Mill River Flood of 1874\, join local historian John Sinton and Smith College Botany professor Gaby Immerman\, co-founders of the Mill River Greenway Initiative\, for a presentation on the history and current state of Mill River floods and the relationship of flooding with the Grow Food Northampton Community Garden. More details coming soon! \nSliding scale\, $0-30\, limited space available. \nPlease register here. 
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/climate-adaptive-gardening-series-mill-river-floods-past-present/
LOCATION:Grow Food Northampton Organic Community Garden\, 140 Meadow St\, Florence\, MA\, 01062\, United States
CATEGORIES:Climate Events,Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240518T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240518T140000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240515T182436Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240515T182436Z
UID:46870-1716026400-1716040800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Just Roots Spring Festival and Seedling Sale
DESCRIPTION:This Spring celebration is free and open to the public and will feature live music\, cooking demonstrations and samples\, farm tours\, a free seed swap\, a raffle with prizes from local businesses\, children’s activities\, and free ice cream from Ice Cream Emergency. Seedlings for sale will include vegetables\, flowers\, culinary and medicinal herbs\, native pollinators\, and more from Just Roots\, MXED GREENS\, Turtle Bend Farm\, Checkerspot Farm\, Sage Green Botanicals\, People’s Medicine Project\, Sawmill Herb Farm\, Foxtrot Farm\, and A Wing and A Prayer Nursery. \nSaturday\, May 18th\, 10am-2pm \nLocation: Just Roots\, 34 Glenbrook Drive Greenfield
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/just-roots-spring-festival-and-seedling-sale/
LOCATION:Just Roots Farm\, 34 Glenbrook Drive\, Greenfield\, MA\, 01301\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family events,Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240520T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240520T190000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240401T180545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240401T200831Z
UID:46475-1716220800-1716231600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Full Well Farm: Start-Up Costs
DESCRIPTION:In our visit\, we’ll talk about what went into getting our farm off the ground in 2018 and take a look at what resources we utilized to apply for grants and loans that made the last four seasons possible. We’ll also talk about our current business plan\, the benefits of growing high value crops like flowers and cut greens\, and our community partnerships that support our business and make local food more accessible. Click here for more information. \nFull Well Farm is a queer owned\, no-till farm in Adams owned and operated by Meg Bantle (they/she) and Laura Tupper-Palches (she/ her). They grow vegetables and cut flowers on an acre of land using a permanent bed system that focuses on soil health. They have a 65 family vegetable CSA\, a 15 person seasonal flower CSA\, and attend the North Adams Farmers Market. They prioritize accessibility to their produce by partnering with local non-profits\, and accepting HIP/SNAP\, and offering sliding-scale CSA pricing. \nDates: Monday\, May 20\, 4:00 PM  7:00 PM \nLocation: Full Well Farm\, 313 East Road Adams\, MA 01220
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/46475/
LOCATION:Full Well Farm\, 313 East Road\, Adams\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240525T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240525T120000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240227T204446Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240227T204446Z
UID:46149-1716627600-1716638400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Starting Seeds and Seedlings
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nWe will discuss how to maximize germination and getting seeds on their way to success for the season. Starting seeds later than we are used to in the greenhouse with only natural lighting and solar heating\, getting them in the ground with no “checking” of their growth\, use of seed inoculants\, transplant drenches\, and mulch when planting will all be discussed. Our “no cell” “no soil block” open tray system of greenhouse seed starting will be discussed also. We follow the biodynamic calendar when planting and will share our thoughts on that too. May 25 is a root day. \nFirst\, we will start some lettuce seeds in the greenhouse\, then repair to the field to plant some beet seeds and lettuce seedlings\, apply in row drenches\, and follow up with application of mulch. This will be a very hands-on workshop. \nClick here for more information! \nEvent Details: \n\nSaturday\, May 25\, 2024\n9am – 12noon with pot luck lunch\nPrice – $50 – $100 – sliding scale.\nPresenters – Clare Caldwell and Julie Rawson
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/starting-seeds-and-seedlings/
LOCATION:Many Hands Sustainability Center\, 411 Sheldon Road\, Barre\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240529T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240529T120000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240503T160129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240503T160207Z
UID:46781-1716980400-1716984000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Changing Hydrology in Agriculture and Agroforestry
DESCRIPTION:Webinar Date: Wednesday\, 5/29/2024\, 11am – 12pm EDT\n\nRegister on Zoom\n\n\n\n\nExtreme precipitation effects on agriculture could have downstream effects on food supply for many people. Anthony Buda will cover the impacts of extreme precipitation and flooding in agricultural settings and cover current research on this topic. Katherine Favor and Samuel Feibel will then provide an applied perspective on how agroforestry can be used to help farms adapt to increased flooding risk and extreme precipitation. \nRooted in Research Webinar Series: Changing Hydrology\, Changing Landscapes
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/changing-hydrology-in-agriculture-and-agroforestry/
LOCATION:Remote
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240601T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240601T120000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240227T204713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240227T204713Z
UID:46151-1717232400-1717243200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Keeping the soil covered: tarps\, cover crops\, mulch
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nWe aim for the highest possible fertility\, a no till scenario\, increased soil organic matter\, and high nutrient density\, disease and insect resistance\, and as few weeds as possible. At this workshop we will discuss our 10 years of no till\, a bit about our problems with this modality as they have evolved over the years\, and the solutions that we have implemented. Always a work in progress\, this fascinating journey is always full of new insights and observations. \nSpecifically\, we will show how we use cover crops pre\, post and during the season\, tarps throughout the farming year\, and myriad sources of mulch. We will demonstrate the use of our bale chopper\, mulch some broccoli with chopped straw or hay and leaves\, take down some cover crops and use a pre-plant soil drench for planting of tomatoes in the next 2-3 days. We will remove tarps from some of our sweet potato beds and prepare the beds for planting similar to the tomato beds. Finally\, we will undersow inoculated (with biocoat gold) crimson clover in our mulched collard beds and apply a transplant drench to the beds. \nClick here for more information! \nEvent Details: \n\nSaturday\, June 1\, 2024\n9am-12noon with pot luck lunch\nPrice – $50-$100 – sliding scale\nPresenters –Julie Rawson\, Elenore Alves\, Matthew Kornn
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/keeping-the-soil-covered-tarps-cover-crops-mulch/
LOCATION:Many Hands Sustainability Center\, 411 Sheldon Road\, Barre\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240601T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240601T113000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240318T185418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240318T201544Z
UID:46339-1717236000-1717241400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Climate Adaptive Gardening Series: Good Bug\, Bad Bug
DESCRIPTION:Learn the ins and outs of which insects live in our gardens\, why\, and how they affect our crops from Master Gardener Ken Conway! \nFree \nPlease Register here 
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/climate-adaptive-gardening-series-good-bug-bad-bug/
LOCATION:Grow Food Northampton Organic Community Garden\, 140 Meadow St\, Florence\, MA\, 01062\, United States
CATEGORIES:Climate Events,Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240602T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240602T120000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240411T182644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240513T152825Z
UID:46578-1717318800-1717329600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:CISA's Farm Bike Tour: Pedal to Pasture
DESCRIPTION:Join us for CISA’s first-ever guided farm tour by bike! \n \nPedal to Pasture is an immersive and engaging experience for all ages and levels of experience. Riders will be led through a guided tour of scenic roads and fields\, get an inside look at three local farms’ growing practices\, and hear farmers’ stories of the benefits and challenges of farming today in the Connecticut River Valley. \nWhen: Sunday\, June 2nd\, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm\nArrive at Prospect Meadow Farm between 8:15-8:30 for a bike safety check and route overview with our guides. \nCost: sliding scale\, $75-$150 adults; $40 kids. Proceeds benefit CISA’s mission of building a better local food system in western Massachusetts.\nWith two guided groups\, you can choose your preferred pace on this flat 12-mile loop ride. All levels and abilities are welcome\, as are e-bikes and pedal-assist bikes. Each group will enjoy two 30-minute stops for tours of two vegetable farms\, plus a tour at our start/finish location\, Prospect Meadow Farm. \nYou’ll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch and a refreshing Crooked Stick popsicle after the ride. \nWeather and cancellation policy: This event will happen rain or shine though if riding conditions are unsafe\, we will cancel. Registration fees will carry over to next year’s tour. \nSpace is limited\, so pre-register today!  \nClick here to register
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/cisas-farm-bike-tour-pedal-to-pasture/
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240603T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240603T190000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240401T180956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240401T180956Z
UID:46479-1717430400-1717441200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Off The Shelf Farm: Scaling Pastured Poultry on Leased Land
DESCRIPTION:Off the Shelf Farm started in 2018 with 750 hens\, 150 broiler chickens and 13 lambs with a hand shake lease for 30 acres and no infrastructure. In 2024 the farm will support 2800 laying hens\, 4500 broiler chickens and 30 lambs all rotationally grazed on pasture. It will for the first time have a legal\, long-term lease on 80 acres and will be implementing a $500k grant-supported project to build winter chicken housing\, egg processing and cold storage space. We will talk about our process of scaling our business and “making it work” despite not owning a farm or having any long-term security. Click here for more information.  \nDate: Monday\, June 3\, 4:00 PM  7:00 PM \nLocation: 200 North Plain Road\, Great Barrington\, MA 01230
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/off-the-shelf-farm-scaling-pastured-poultry-on-leased-land/
LOCATION:Off The Shelf Farm\, 200 North Plain Road\, Great Barrington\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240603T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240603T193000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240517T122747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240517T122747Z
UID:46873-1717439400-1717443000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:SNAP training for farm & farmers’ market staff (session three)
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nMake sure your farm stand and farmers’ market staff are ready to accept SNAP this summer by having them attend this SNAP employee training. \nEmployees will learn SNAP basics including what EBT cards look like\, what items are SNAP eligible\, how to run a SNAP transaction\, and the differences between SNAP and HIP. Attendees will come away knowing how SNAP works\, how to answer questions around SNAP and HIP\, and how to successfully and legally run a transaction on Conduent and TotilPay machines. \nThis training will also cover the SNAP protocols and rules that the USDA requires businesses to cover with their employees every year. A list of employees who attended the training can be provided to the employer\, to satisfy the USDA’s requirement that SNAP trainings for staff be documented. \nThis training is for employees who will be processing SNAP transactions. Open to all staff of farm businesses or farmers’ markets that accept SNAP. \nThis workshop will be held on Zoom on Monday\, June 3rd\, 6:30-7:45pm. \nContact Jim Simon at jim@buylocalfood.org or 413-665-7100 ext. 18 with questions.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/snap-training-for-farm-farmers-market-staff-session-three/
LOCATION:Remote
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240614T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240614T130000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240606T141406Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240606T150154Z
UID:47043-1718366400-1718370000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Lunch On Local
DESCRIPTION:Join Phil\, CISA staff\, and other CISA supporters to reflect on the challenges and lessons learned from last year’s events and discuss how this year is unfolding for our local farms. \nDate: Friday\, June 14th\nTime: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm\nWhere: CISA Office Conference Room and Zoom \nRegister here
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/june-2024-lunch-on-local/
LOCATION:CISA Conference Room or Zoom
CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240615T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240615T120000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240227T204926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240227T204926Z
UID:46153-1718442000-1718452800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Homestead Carpentry
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nThere’s a time in every homesteader’s life when some carpentry is needed to build or repair something made of wood.  This workshop will provide a solid grounding in getting started. Very basic questions will be explored in a setting that requires no knowledge of woodworking. \nTopics will include: how to select the right lumber for your task\, how to measure it and cut it to size\, the options for fastening it together\, and making a good assembly.  Each topic will cover the tools needed\, with a demonstration of technique\, and how to avoid some common pitfalls.  Emphasis will be on hand tools where feasible. \nWhile in his 20s\, John Wilson was a carpenter for 10 years.  He worked on framing apartments\, finish work in condos\, a cabinet shop\, and built two houses.  He’s kept active in carpentry remodeling work in the intervening years\, and was part of the MHOF garage and chicken coop renovations the past two years.  He has always had an appreciation for tools and techniques. \nClick here for more information! \nEvent Details: \n\nSaturday\, June 15\, 2024\n9am-12 with pot luck lunch\nPrice: $50-$100 – sliding scale\nPresenter: John Wilson\, with some help from Jack Kittredge and Danny LeBlanc
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/homestead-carpentry/
LOCATION:Many Hands Sustainability Center\, 411 Sheldon Road\, Barre\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240615T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240615T180000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240522T175850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240522T175850Z
UID:46904-1718467200-1718474400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Hope Fest 24
DESCRIPTION:A mini-music fest out on a beautiful lawn in beautiful Leyden (just north of Greenfield) to raise funds for Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) and The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Bring your picnic and enjoy the music of legendary guitarist John Sheldon\, traditional jazz and swing band The Catalytics\, and improvisational ensemble The Enchantivistis with John Sprague and Claire Dacey! Suggested donation: $10-$25. Kids 12 and under are free. \n174 Kately Hill Road\, Leyden\, MA\nRain Date: Sunday\, June 16th.\n\nBring your lawn chair and your picnic!\n\nClick here for more information.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/hope-fest-24/
CATEGORIES:Family events,Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240617T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240617T190000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240401T181259Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240401T181259Z
UID:46482-1718640000-1718650800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Cricket Creek Farm: Dairy Production\, Grazing\, and Processing
DESCRIPTION:Cricket Creek is a grass-based dairy farm managed by a small team of collaborators.  The entire farm is comprised of about 500 acres\, about 150 of which is hay fields\, just over 100 is pasture\, and the rest is wooded.  We are one of the oldest dairy farms in the region\, but infused with new life and energy.  Our primary activity is raising dairy cows for their good milk.  Our milking herd ranges between 35 and 40 lactating animals\, depending on the time of yea\,r and the entire dairy herd is about 80 animals including the dry cows and young stock.  We sell raw milk from our farm and the rest of our milk we make into artisanal cheese in our farmstead creamery; in 2017 we made about 47\,000 lbs of cheese.  We raise grass-fed beef and whey-fed pork.  We sell our goods through our farm store\, at local farmers markets\, and through various regional cheese shops\, food co-ops\, restaurants\, and other establishments.  Our mission is to produce nourishing food that honors our animals\, respects the land and feeds our community\, and to exemplify a sustainable model for small-farm viability. \nOur workshop will be an overview of running a small diversified dairy farm.  We will discuss rotational grazing\, dairy cow health issues\, our nurse cow system\, milking schedules\, farmstead cheese production\, raw milk and cheese marketing and sales.  We will talk about our systems for integrating other enterprises on the dairy farm.  We will share the challenges and successes financially turning around an old dairy farm and what it means to run a sustainable dairy operation.  Our current iteration of Cricket Creek is fairly new and we are relatively young farmers; we can give the perspective of a start-up business including the intricacies of getting well established and grounded with careful planning and record keeping. Click here for more information. \nDate: Monday\, June 17\, 4:00PM – 7:00PM \nLocation: Cricket Creek Farm\, 1255 Oblong Rd\, Williamstown\, MA 01267
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/cricket-creek-farm-dairy-production-grazing-and-processing/
LOCATION:Cricket Creek Farm\, 1255 Oblong Rd\, Williamstown\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240619T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240619T160000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240524T143746Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240605T174037Z
UID:46911-1718805600-1718812800@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Spring into Summer at Making Food Fun!
DESCRIPTION:Enjoy the last day of spring at the South Hadley Farmers’ Market\, at Buttery Brook Park. CISA will be there with a hyperlocal food event for families. All ages are welcome to play with food! Dave’s Natural Garden will be on hand with many varieties of peas for a scientific taste test. Love Leaf Farm will teach about growing peas and sunflowers shoots & give out samples. Enjoy strawberries from Sapowsky Farms. Tortilla & Tortellini\, tortoises from Flora & Fauna Farm\, will be available for visits and photos. This free event is all about tasting local food and meeting local farmers. Have fun with veggie props for a photo session. Parents\, pick up information on SNAP match & HIP. More fun still in the works! \n\nThe South Hadley Farmers’ Market is open for the season every Wednesday through October 2nd\, from 2-6PM at Buttery Brook Park\, 123 Willimanset Street\, South Hadley. They accept SNAP and WIC\, and offer a $10 SNAP match.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/spring-into-summer-at-making-food-fun/
LOCATION:Buttery Brook Park\, 123 Willimansett St\,\, South Hadley\, 01075\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family events,CISA Events,Community Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.buylocalfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/June-MFF-Hilltown-800-×-800-px-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240626T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240626T120000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240530T163223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240530T163410Z
UID:46956-1719392400-1719403200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Pasture Based Systems for Sustainable Livestock Production
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a tour of this pasture based diversified livestock farm. Learn firsthand from owner Sara Davis about the economic analysis and decision-making processes she employs. Hear about the strategies she implements that are crucial for the longterm success of her business. \nFor more information\, visit https://livestock.extension.uconn.edu or contact Rachel Bespuda\, Project Director at rachel.bespuda@uconn.edu \nRegister here! \nLocation: Oak Hollow Livestock\, 4 Gould Rd\, Shelburne Falls\, MA 01370\nDate: Wednesday\, June 26th\, 9 am – 12 pm
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/pasture-based-systems-for-sustainable-livestock-production/
LOCATION:Oak Hollow Livestock\, 4 Gould Rd\, Shelburne Falls\, MA\, 01370\, United States
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240626T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240626T200000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240603T204112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240607T165712Z
UID:46977-1719424800-1719432000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Maintaining Agricultural Ditches: What to Know About the Agricultural Exemption and Best Practices from NRCS
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nPlease join us on Wednesday June 26th at 6pm at the Hadley Senior Center for a workshop on ditches and storm water management in agricultural settings. This workshop is intended for farmers and members of conservation and agricultural commissions. We will hear from the MA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on the agricultural exemption\, with time for Q&A. There will be a presentation on best practices & resources from the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). Staff representing CISA\, MDAR APR\, Hampshire Hampden Conservation Districts and Hadley Conservation Commission will be attending the event and available to answer questions. \nDate: Wednesday\, June 26th\, 6pm \nLocation: Hadley Senior Center\, 46 Middle St.\, Hadley\, MA 01035 \nContact climate@buylocalfood.org with questions.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/maintaining-ditches/
LOCATION:Hadley Senior Center\, 46 Middle St\, Hadley\, MA\, 01035\, United States
CATEGORIES:Climate Events,CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240629T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240629T123000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240605T195025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240605T195234Z
UID:47019-1719653400-1719664200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Agroforestry & Climate Adaptation: A Tour of Big River Chestnuts
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nWith each year that passes\, extreme weather events become more frequent and erratic\, and it becomes harder and harder to make a living as a farmer. In response to climate change\, many farmers are experimenting with a range of ‘climate-smart’ practices that increase the diversity\, resilience\, and adaptability of their operation. Some particularly exciting practices fall under the umbrella of ‘agroforestry’ – a broad term that refers to any practice that intentionally integrates forestry with agriculture. \nAgroforestry is not new – It is a traditional practice that was forgotten as American farms grew larger\, less diverse\, and more mechanized. However\, agroforestry is starting to receive a great deal of attention\, and is primed for a resurgence. Indeed\, agroforestry practices may prove vital in keeping farmers farming. \nJoin us for a tour of Big River Chestnuts\, where we will learn about agroforestry practices from Jono Neiger. Big River Chestnuts is a 10-acre diversified alley cropping and silvopasture farm started by Jono in 2018\, with a vision to produce commercial quantities of chestnuts while\nstewarding the river terrace soils and habitat. In addition to the chestnuts\, Jono grows heartnuts\, hazelnuts\, and persimmon. A diverse mix of perennial crops grow in between the rows of trees\, while livestock forage amongst the lush landscape\, adding valuable nutrients while providing light tillage\, along with a host of other benefits. \nThe day will begin with a short discussion on the value of agroforestry as a climate adaptation technique\, followed by a walking tour of the farm. After the tour\, people are encouraged to socialize and enjoy some local snacks. Please register here. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDate: Saturday\, June 29\, 2024\nTime: Farm Tour from 9:30 to 11:30. Socializing from 11:30 to 12:30.\nLocation:195 River Rd\, Sunderland\, MA\nContact: hampdenhampshireconservation@gmail.com\n\nClick here for more information
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/agroforestry-climate-adaptation-a-tour-of-big-river-chestnuts/
LOCATION:Big River Chestnuts\, 44-98 Settright Rd\, Deerfield\, MA\, 01373
CATEGORIES:Climate Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240708T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240708T190000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240401T213125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240401T213125Z
UID:46495-1720454400-1720465200@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:UMass Student Farm: Approaches to Pest Management
DESCRIPTION:In our visit\, we will tour the Agricultural Learning Center and discuss the Student Farm’s approach to pest management. We will briefly discuss Integrated Pest Management\, its meaning\, and how it is applied on our farm. We will also discuss management roles on the farm\, specifically around the role of our IPM management role taken on every year by one of our interns. \nThe UMass Student Farm is truly a student-run farm.  Each season\, up to 15 undergraduate students participate in the cooperative planning and management of our 20-acre vegetable farm\, certified with Baystate Organics as well as the Real Organic Project. Our student farmers represent a variety of backgrounds and come from many departments on campus as well as from the other Five Colleges in which they receive college credit for their participation. The Student Farm has been under the direction of Amanda Brown since 2007 and has been managed by Jason Dragon since 2019. Our primary markets are UMass community members via a 100-plus member CSA\, the four UMass dining halls\, and student-run businesses on campus. Also\, the farm’s only off-campus sales come from working with and selling to four local Big Y supermarkets. \nDate: Monday\, July 8\, 4pm-7pm \nLocation: UMass Student Farm\, 911 North Pleasant St. Amherst\, MA
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/umass-student-farm-approaches-to-pest-management/
LOCATION:UMass Student Farm\, 911 North Pleasant St\, Amherst\, MA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240709T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240709T143000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240627T144943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240627T144943Z
UID:47195-1720528200-1720535400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Making Food Fun at The Farmers Market at Forest Park
DESCRIPTION:Calling all kids! Come out to Forest Park for a summertime farmers’ market with all sorts of special activities! Kids can make a smoothie by pedaling a bike\, check out a summer cooking demo\, and taste a rainbow of locally grown fruits and veggies! Parents and caregivers welcome! \nCommunity Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) is partnering with The Farmers Market at Forest Park and Homegrown Springfield for a summer celebration of local food\, local farms\, and local families on Tuesday\, July 9th\, from 12:30-2:30pm. This free event will be held at Forest Park in Springfield in the Cyr Arena parking lot\, close to the pool and splash pad. We will be in the Monkey House in the event of rain. \nHighlights include: \n\nMake a bike smoothie with Homegrown Springfield\nSummer cooking demonstration with local ingredients by Homegrown Springfield\nSummer Eats open lunch site\, distributing free nutritious meals to youth under 18\nBlueberry samples from Red Fire Farm\nUrban Farming with Gardening the Community\nWIC Mass Farmers Market Coupon Distribution\nUMass Nutrition Education Program\nSNAP\, Mass Health\, and Health Connector information for parents from Caring Health Center\n\nVersion 1.0.0 \nThis event will be held rain or shine. Both event and park admission are free for farmers’ market visitors. Enter the park using the main entrance\, 299 Sumner Avenue or the side entrance at 200 Trafton Road. The Farmers Market at Forest Park is open every Tuesday from 12:30-6pm. \nQuestions? Contact Lisa Goodrich at lisa@buylocalfood.org or 413-665-7100\, ext. 29. We hope to see you there!
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/mff24-at-forest-park/
LOCATION:The Farmers Market at Forest Park\, 299 Sumner Avenue\, Springfield\, MA\, 01108\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family events,CISA Events,Community Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.buylocalfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/July-MFF-2024-FB-banner-820-x-312-px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240709T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240709T190000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240702T051853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240702T052554Z
UID:47219-1720544400-1720551600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Soil Health & Compost Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nJoin our hands-on gardening workshop focused on composting and soil health! Discover the art of creating nutrient-rich compost\, learn the secrets of maintaining healthy soil\, and understand how to boost your garden’s productivity naturally. Perfect for gardeners of all levels\, you’ll leave with practical knowledge and tips to cultivate a thriving\, sustainable garden. This is open to members and non-members of the PSS Community Garden. Light refreshments will be provided. \n\nDate: Tuesday\, July 9\, 5 – 7pm\nLocation: 1060 Pleasant Street\, Athol\, MA\, USA\nAges: 14+\nInstructors: Michelle Gilman & Emma Dooley (Farm School)\nPrerequisite: None!\nOptional: Bring garden gloves\, something to take notes with and a folding chair.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/soil-health-compost-workshop/
LOCATION:LaunchSpace Pleasant Street School\, 1060 Pleasant Street\, Athol\, MA\, 01331\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240713T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240713T130000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240702T052333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240702T052421Z
UID:47223-1720861200-1720875600@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Build Picnic Tables for our Community Garden
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nJoin our woodshop stewards\, Laura and Neil as they guide a small group in building two picnic tables for the LaunchSpace Community Garden at Pleasant Street School. All levels are welcome and no carpentry experience is required\, as long as you are ready to keep your hands busy and learn new skills! \n\nDate: Saturday\, July 13 · 9am – 1pm\nLocation: 1060 Pleasant Street\, Athol\, MA\, USA\nAges: All ages welcome!\nInstructors: Laura Pepper and Neil Mack\nPrerequisite: None!\nCancellations and Refunds: Cancellations made three or more days prior to class will be happily refunded.\n\nPay It Forward: At LaunchSpace\, we want to ensure that all members of our community are able to access the workshops and classes we offer. For this reason\, we offer a Pay-It-Forward ticket giving the option for those purchasing tickets to contribute a bit more. Pay-It-Forward tickets support a scholarship for members of our community who would otherwise be unable to attend due to financial barriers. \nAccess to Art Scholarship: We aim to have all our workshops accessible to all. If you are interested in a financial scholarship to attend this event\, let us know! 🎨✨ Apply here
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/build-picnic-tables-for-our-community-garden/
LOCATION:LaunchSpace Pleasant Street School\, 1060 Pleasant Street\, Athol\, MA\, 01331\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240713T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240713T170000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240605T193639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240605T194318Z
UID:47013-1720879200-1720890000@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Hazelnut Agroforestry Field Tour
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nAre you excited about the possibility of growing climate resilient tree crops for our local food system?  Do you have dreams of a perennial\, climate resilient\, dynamic agroforestry farm\, but are struggling to take the steps to put your aspirations into action? \nJoin Nutwood Farm and NOFA/Mass to explore a small commercial hazelnut orchard and learn what it takes to transition land to tree crops\, from developing a site plan\, testing your soil\, clearing land\, selecting species of plants and animals\, to working with mistakes and thinking ahead. They’ll walk us through how they got started and where they’re headed next\, including embarking on investing in processing infrastructure and developing value-added food products as well as other marketable agroforestry products. \n\nThroughout the day we will: \n\nTour the farm to see hazelnut hedgerows\, earthworks\, and livestock\nAsk critical and inspiring implementation questions\nEngage in rich discussion about agroforestry development in the Northeast\nReview the various entities and organizations that have supported this work\nMeet and mingle with others who might also be in your shoes!\n\n\nClick here for more information. \nQuestions? Contact Ruben at events@nofamass.org
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/hazelnut-agroforestry-field-tour/
LOCATION:Nutwood Farm\, 76 Porter Hill Rd\, Cummington\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Climate Events,Farmer Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240715
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240717
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240605T203529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240605T203608Z
UID:47026-1721001600-1721174399@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Berkshire-Taconic Grazing Tour with Sarah Flack
DESCRIPTION:With generous funding from the National Grazing Lands Coalition\, Berkshire Agricultural Ventures in partnership with Berkshire Grown will host a two-day Berkshire-Taconic Grazing Tour on July 15th & 16th with grazing expert Sarah Flack. Click here for more information. \nThe goal of the grazing tour is to educate grazing land managers and new graziers about sustainable grazing techniques\, to demonstrate different approaches to climate-smart grazing\, and to identify opportunities to improve grazing practices. We also intend this tour to be a place for graziers to connect with each other and with conservation technicians\, to create ongoing educational and networking value. \nMonday\, July 15th – Day 1 will feature grass-based and organic livestock production consultant Sarah Flack\, to deliver a Sustainable Grazing Management workshop at Gould Farm in Monterey\, MA\, followed by guided pasture walks at Gould Farm and at The Farm in New Marlborough\, MA. As the workshop concludes for the day\, we invite you to stay and join us for a networking dinner BBQ at The Farm New Marlborough\, featuring their meats\, local side dishes and beverages. \nTuesday\, July 16th – Day 2 will be a tour to 3 grass-fed livestock farms across the Taconic region of NY: \n\nChaseholm Farm\, Pine Plains\, NY\nKinderhook Farm\, Valatie\, NY\nHarrier Fields Farm\, Schodack Landing\, NY\n\nTo register\, please click here.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/berkshire-taconic-grazing-tour-with-sarah-flack/
CATEGORIES:Farmer Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Berkshire Grown":MAILTO:buylocal@berkshiregrown.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240725T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240725T180000
DTSTAMP:20260425T181606
CREATED:20240709T173405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240710T150212Z
UID:47260-1721923200-1721930400@www.buylocalfood.org
SUMMARY:Tillage Reduction Systems and Equipment: Living Mulch and Strip-Till
DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nCome check out Atlas Farm’s 3 acre experiment with strip-tilled winter squash in a perennial clover living mulch\, and living clover/rye pathways in five acres of tomatoes. We’ll look at a no-till drill\, strip-till equipment\, and strip-cultivation equipment. Atlas Farms’ trials have implications for tillage reduction and soil health for conventional and organic growers at all scales. Following the talk and tour\, there will be a light dinner at 6 PM. We hope to see you there! \nThis event is co-sponsored by CISA\, Momentum Ag\, the Hampden-Hampshire Conservation District\, and UMass. \n\nDate: Thursday\, July 25th\, 4-6pm\nLocation: Atlas Farm\, 595A River Rd\, Deerfield\, MA 01342\n\nContact climate@buylocalfood.org with questions.
URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/tillage-reduction-systems-and-equipment-living-mulch-and-strip-till/
LOCATION:Atlas Farm trial fields\, 595A River Rd\, Deerfield\, MA\, 01342\, United States
CATEGORIES:Climate Events,CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR