The (3) C’s in organic farming are Cop Rotations, Cover Crops and Compost. When put together in a well-planned production system healthy soil and a successful cash crop are all but guaranteed. In this class we’ll discuss how to develop a plan that is focused on cover crops in a diverse crop rotation. We’ll also […]
Join long time orchardists Pru Smith and Sharon Gensler for an afternoon workshop on small-scale homestead orcharding. They’ll demonstrate overall orchard planning, building diversity into plantings, breed selection, practical fruit growing techniques, and soil and plant health. Pru and Sharon will lead participants in an informative and experiential process, using their property, Wild Browse Farm, […]
This two hour program will provide two recertification contact hours for all categories of pesticide licenses, Natalia P. Clifton, UMass Extension will discuss a variety of timely topics of importance to pesticide applicators. Topics will include EPA regulatory changes impacting pesticide applicators, events involving pesticide impacts on non-target organisms, resources for pesticide toxicity and environmental […]
The MA Cultivated Blueberry Grower’s Association in conjunction with the UMass Extension Service is holding an annual spring seminar on Saturday June 18th. This year we are pleased to have Sonia Schloemann, UMass Small Fruit Extension specialist give us an IPM Update on Major Blueberry Pest and Disease Issues for 2016. Laurie Rocco, MDAR Pesticide […]
Are you raising grass-fed cattle? Interested in transitioning? Come learn with organic grass-fed cattle farmer Matt Koziol! Matt will discuss what farmers need to know to keep their animals healthy and productive. Starting with the nutritional requirements for livestock, particular attention will be paid to reading and responding to cattle behavior in order to reduce […]
Join fellow entrepreneurs at the Specialty Food Association's one-day workshop to teach specialty food manufacturers how to sell to distributors, foodservice, specialty food retailers and supermarkets. Presentations feature industry practitioners, communicating material useful to both newcomers and experienced producers interested in expanding sales and building profit. Presentations from industry peers will include: How to Sell […]
Learn the ins and outs of commercial medicinal herb production, from field to drying room. Participants will get an overview of the production and planning methodologies that Full Kettle Farm uses. The workshop will also focus on post production handling and herb drying for teas, oils, and other value added products. Full Kettle Farm is […]
West Holyoke, East Mountain, and Mount Tom are home to some of the region's most scenic areas, including forests and farms. Important lands like these are often lost when changing hands from one generation to the next. Do you have a plan for the future of your land? Please join the Holyoke Conservation Commission and […]