This webinar explores the spectrum of reduced tillage practices at all scales, covering equipment and methods that can improve soil health and save labor.
Speakers: Julie Fine, American Farmland Trust; Natalie Lounsbury, UNH; Lincoln Fishman, Momentum Ag.
Register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/qdka4XX9Q3mDaDrP338r8A?_x_zm_rtaid=6f-SW7qYTBSt4tB6vBF5Ug.1741181264593.8e6a3b7b05ce0f368eb0639f153b2782&amp;_x_zm_rhtaid=738#/registration">here</a>.
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Northeast/Mid-Atlantic

Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association- Winter Webinar: Hang onto your soil!

Every Wednesday at 9AM, join NOFA NJ via Zoom and receive focused support with your farm’s needs.

NOFA NJ – Monthly Organic Open House (3/26)

On a diversified, year-round, organic operation like Sassafras Creek Farm, there is a lot to learn! For this field day, we’ll explore a range of topics with veteran farmer David Paulk who, along with his wife, Jennifer, owns Sassafras Creek Farm. Also joining the conversation for science-informed insights into soil amendments and management approaches is Daniel Sweeney, Senior Crop Advisor for Seven Springs Farm Supply.
Together, and with interaction from attendees, we’ll consider topics including: 
-Cover cropping, crop rotation and seed selection 
-High volume production of tricky crops like carrots and beets 
-Managing nutrients for year-round productivity 
-Challenges from extreme weather 
-Equipment to maximize efficiencies 
-And more!
Dress for the weather with shoes appropriate for field walking. Registration is required. We look forward to seeing you there!

Balancing Productivity and Soil Health on a Certified Organic Vegetable Farm: Field Day at Sassafras Creek Farm

Join us for the last session of the “Organic Markets for Livestock Farmers” series. This upcoming advisor call is designed as a follow-up to the last two previous webinars on Markets ROI and Buyer Perspectives on Organic Livestock Markets. This is a great opportunity for those who missed the earlier sessions to engage in a deeper discussion about these topics with farmers, buyers, and economic experts who were featured in previous webinars. This advisor call is an open forum for you to ask any questions you have related to organic livestock markets. This call may also include a walkthrough of organic clearinghouses, including how to effectively utilize these resources for your business. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and ask questions about the organic livestock market.
All sessions are free of charge to attendees. <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/ask-me-anything-organic-markets-for-livestock-farmers/">Register here to attend</a>.

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National

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Midwest

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Northwest

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Plains

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Southeast

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West/Southwest

Ask me Anything – Organic Markets for Livestock Farmers

<h5>JOIN OUR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE OFFICE HOURS TO GET ANSWERS TO YOUR ORGANIC CERTIFICATION QUESTIONS AND ACCESS HELPFUL RESOURCES!  All are welcome!</h5>

Organic Office Hours (3/26/25)

Curious about transitioning to organic or navigating the Organic System Plan (OSP)? Join our online gathering for an open discussion and Q&amp;A session! 
We&#8217;ll help you explore your questions, understand how your organic practices align with the OSP, and delve into organic regulations. Everyone is welcome—bring your questions and join the conversation about organic agriculture and the role of the OSP.

NOFA NH: Organic Systems Plan (OSP) Support  (3/26)

Organic Office Hours (3/20/25)

NOFA/Mass Growing Organic Together Monthly Call

Growers and researchers are always inventing and refining methods of managing this never pest. Explore mechanical bug beaters, data on delayed planting, and updates on spray efficacy.
Speakers: Vic Izzo, UVM; Jon Cohen, Deep Meadow Farm, Ascutney; Carl Johanson Goranson Farm, Dresden, Maine; Phil Mason, Crossroad Farm, Post Mills
Register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/qdka4XX9Q3mDaDrP338r8A?_x_zm_rtaid=6f-SW7qYTBSt4tB6vBF5Ug.1741181264593.8e6a3b7b05ce0f368eb0639f153b2782&amp;_x_zm_rhtaid=738#/registration">here</a>.

Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association- Winter Webinar: What’s new in Colorado potato beetle control.

NOFA NJ – Weekly Technical Assistance (3/19)

Join us for an engaging follow-up to the previous webinar, “Markets ROI of Organic Transition for Livestock Farmers,” where we dive deeper into the perspectives of buyers in the organic livestock market. Attendees will gather insights from multiple buyers across the U.S. on their sourcing needs, learn about key factors that influence buyer decisions, and learn how to build strong, collaborative relationships with buyers. This conversation is designed specifically for farmers looking to understand the current landscape and future opportunities in organic livestock markets.
All sessions are free of charge to attendees. <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/webinar-buyer-perspectives-on-livestock/">Register here to attend</a>.

Webinar: Buyer Perspectives on Livestock

Join us for the Organic Talk Roundtable, a monthly gathering dedicated to exploring all things organic agriculture—from investigating organic practices to transitioning and achieving certification. Each session features a specific topic for discussion, with opportunities for participants to suggest future topics.
This roundtable is a space for organic farmers, those transitioning to organic, and anyone exploring organic production to connect, share, and learn. Our goal is to foster a supportive organic farming network where we can exchange ideas, discuss challenges, share solutions, and celebrate successes. Some months will focus on a featured topic, while others provide open time for farmer-led discussions and networking. Everyone is welcome—let&#8217;s grow together!

NOFA NH: Organic Talk Round Table

<h4>Join us! This 60-minute Market Development Workshop session at the Mid-Atlantic Grain Conference hosted by the Common Grain Alliance will feature subject matter experts focused on organic grain markets.</h4>
This panel will include economists, organic buyers and producers and will be moderated by Kyle Pletcher from Tuscarora Grain Company. A mixer will immediately follow the discussion to allow producers and organic buyers to network and make meaningful connections. Light snacks will be provided. This event provides an opportunity for organic producers, those transitioning, and those who are curious about organic production to gather and learn more about organic market grain opportunities.
To register for this event, please visit: <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/marketing-your-organic-grains/">https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/marketing-your-organic-grains/</a>

Marketing Your Organic Grains

This grain gathering will bring together the grain value chain, from Pennsylvania down through northern North Carolina, for a day of presentations, discussions and networking as we seek to improve the Mid-Atlantic grain value chain for all stakeholders. On March 16th, we will host a public Grain Fair at <a href="https://www.wheatlandspring.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wheatland Spring Farm and Brewery</a>. This will be a free public fair, inviting the community to celebrate and share products made with regional grain and staple foods.
The Mid-Atlantic Grain Conference will be March 17, 2025 at <a href="https://riversideonthepotomac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Riverside on the Potomac</a>, bringing together grain practitioners and enthusiasts from across the Mid-Atlantic grain value chain, from breeders and farmers, to millers and distributors, to bakers, pasta-makers, brewers, maltsters, distillers, and other grain artisans.
The mission of the Mid-Atlantic Grain Conference is to build a stronger regional grain value chain through networking, education, and sharing products made with regional grain and staple foods. The conference includes presentations, discussions, grain workshops, and networking sessions that seek to improve the Mid-Atlantic grain value chain for all stakeholders.

Common Grain Alliance: 2025 Mid-Atlantic Grain Fair and Conference

Growers share cover crops mixes and sequences designed for pollinator habitat and soil health benefits.
Speakers: Jake Kornfeld, The Farm at VYCC, Richmond; Spencer Hardy, The Farm Upstream, Underhill; Colin O’Brien, Common Roots Farm, S. Burlington; Laura Johnson, UVM Extension
Register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/qdka4XX9Q3mDaDrP338r8A?_x_zm_rtaid=6f-SW7qYTBSt4tB6vBF5Ug.1741181264593.8e6a3b7b05ce0f368eb0639f153b2782&amp;_x_zm_rhtaid=738#/registration">here</a>.
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Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers- Winter Webinar: Planning cover crop sequences for pollinators and growers

NOFA NJ – Weekly Technical Assistance (3/12)

Are you considering the transition to organic farming for your livestock farm and or interested in improving the return on investment for your organic farm through markets? Join us for an insightful virtual webinar designed to help you understand the economic potential of organic markets and equip you with the tools to evaluate your own transition. Attendees will get an overview of the organic market landscape and its growth potential from economic experts and learn.
All sessions are free of charge to attendees. <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/webinar-markets-roi-of-organic-transition-for-livestock-farmers/">Register here to attend</a>.

Webinar: Markets ROI of Organic Transition for Livestock Farmers

Organic Office Hours (3/12/25)

NOFA NH: Organic Systems Plan (OSP) Support (3/12)

Join UVM Extension and the Northern Grain Growers Collaborative for a day of learning!
NGGC is a vibrant network of growers, bakers, researchers, millers, maltsters, distillers, researchers, seed preservationists, and food system enthusiasts, rooted in Vermont. Our focus is on all aspects of grain production and on cultivating collaboration within the grain community across the northern region.

Northern Grain Growers Collaborative: Grain Growers Conference

Organic Office Hours (3/5/25)

NOFA NJ – Weekly Technical Assistance (3/5)

CT NOFA is proud to present our 43rd Winter Conference, featuring a series of virtual workshops on February 25-27 in the lead up to our full day, in-person gathering and celebration on March 1, 2025 at Eastern Connecticut State University, in partnership with their Institute of Sustainability.
We&#8217;ll be offering a variety of workshops, covering topics such as farming, seed saving, organic land care, community food security, social justice issues, and more, including a keynote panel discussion focused on food access and equity that will feature Reggy St Fortcolin, Jennifer Rothman, and Phoebe Godfrey. Our in-person celebration will also feature the presentation of the Bill Duesing Organic Living on the Earth award and our members&#8217; annual meeting.

CT NOFA Winter Conference

Organic Office Hours (2/26/25)

NOFA NH: Organic Systems Plan (OSP) Support (2/26)

NOFA NJ – Weekly Technical Assistance (2/19)

Join us for an engaging follow-up to the previous webinar, “Markets ROI of Organic Transition for Vegetable Farmers,” where we dive deeper into the perspectives of buyers in the organic vegetable market. Attendees will gather insights from multiple buyers across the U.S. on their sourcing needs, learn about key factors that influence buyer decisions, and learn how to build strong, collaborative relationships with buyers. This conversation is designed specifically for farmers looking to understand the current landscape and future opportunities in organic vegetable markets.
The panel will be moderated by David Paysnick and will feature Whitney Herrera, Kenny Meyer and Alex Borst.
David Paysnick: David is the Food Hub Business Development Manager at Food Connects, a 501c3 non-profit based in Southern Vermont. He joined Food Connects in 2020 with 25+ years of experience in food and farming-related occupations and has helped the Food Connects Food Hub grow annual sales from $1.1 Million in 2020 to $3.9 million ins 2024. Prior to working at Food Connects, David operated Rainbow Harvest Farm in Greenfield, MA, producing organic vegetables, herbs, nursery plants, fig trees and specialty food products. He was the founding farmer at the non-profit Greenfield Community Farm, where he led the farm through its initial years of development and production. David also spent nearly a decade working in retail food co-ops in both California and Massachusetts, primarily as Produce Manager and Buyer, as well as serving as Board President for a multi-store Food Co-op in Western Massachusetts. In his earlier days, he also worked as a wholesale baker, chef, and held several other restaurants, farm and food positions. David now lives with his wife and daughter in Greenfield, MA where they grow organic flowers and vegetables for personal enjoyment and sell occasional fig tree cuttings from their extensive greenhouse collection.
Whitney Herrera: Whitney has worked at Whole Foods Market for over 15 years — starting in Reno, NV Whole Foods store as a cashier. During her time with Whole Foods, she has been a part of Global Operations helping stand up a Global Reset program for store team members and has been in Category Management for the past 6 years. Before managing Functional Snacks, she managed Cereals, Nut Butters, Jams, Wholesome Bars and Shelf Stable Milks. Outside of work, Whitney works to bring her passion for food and regenerative farming practices to her small-scale suburban garden.
Kenny Meyer: Kenny is a Senior Produce &amp; Floral Buyer with Whole Foods Markets Perishables Merchandising Team. His primary role is strategic partnerships with Local and Regional Farms across Whole Foods Markets network of suppliers.
Alex Borst: Alex is the Purchasing Manager at Happy Dirt. He is a grandson of immigrant dairy farmers and grew up in Mississippi seeing how difficult of a time farmers have in getting their products to market. He has spent his career trying to solve problems that exist in moving produce from economically challenged rural areas into more heavily populated urban areas. Alex has over 8 years of experience in produce procurement in both the non-profit and for-profit spaces. Happy Dirt is a certified organic produce distribution company that brings fresh produce to market from farms across the Southeast and East Coast. Alex manages vendor relationships and produce production planning to build local and regional programs for retailers and food service providers from Florida to New York. In his free time, Alex practices yoga, spends too much time cooking and frequents electronic music venues.
All sessions are free of charge to attendees. <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/webinar-buyer-perspectives-on-organic-vegetable-sourcing/">Register here to attend</a>.

Webinar: Buyer Perspectives on Organic Vegetable Sourcing

Organic Office Hours (2/19/25)

The NOFA-VT Winter Conference provides a valuable opportunity for farmers, homesteaders, gardeners, earth tenders, land stewards, educators, students, policy-makers, and other food system activists to participate in our vibrant community event by sharing ideas, resources, and skills.
This year’s theme is Growing Together. From corporate consolidation to land access barriers, it’s easy to feel like “the powers that be” are constantly fighting against a localized, just, ecological food system. But, as eons of societal change show us, we all have the power to create better conditions when we come together; if one person alone is a single thread, a community of people sharing knowledge, humanity, and inspiration is the thread woven together into a strong, vibrant social fabric.

NOFA-VT Winter Conference

Are you considering the transition to organic farming for your diversified vegetable farm and or interested in improving the return on investment for your organic farm through markets? Join us for an insightful virtual webinar designed to help you understand the economic potential of organic markets and equip you with the tools to evaluate your own transition. This webinar will be moderated by Roshell Rosales Aguilar, Farm and Agribusiness Management Regional Extension Agent for NW Alabama through Auburn University. Attendees will get an overview of the organic market landscape and its growth potential from economic expert and Professor of Food Studies at NYU, Carolyn Dimitri, and learn from farmers Reggie Ramos, from Grow with the Flow and Emma Jagoz, from Moon Valley Farm, who successfully transitioned to organic vegetable production.
All sessions are free of charge to attendees. <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/events/weibinar-markets-roi-of-organic-transition-for-vegetable-farmers/">Register here to attend</a>.

Webinar: Markets ROI of Organic Transition for Vegetable Farmers

NOFA NJ – Weekly Technical Assistance (2/12)

Organic Office Hours (2/12/25)

Aspects of organic certification can seem complex, especially when it comes to determining which materials and inputs you can use as a part of your farm management plan. It is not always just understanding which materials are allowable but also when and how they can be used. During this virtual workshop, Erich Bremer will discuss the fundamentals of agricultural input considerations, including the relevant standards and best practices when outfitting your materials toolkit. Erich has more than 20 years of experience serving as the administrator for organic certifying agencies, and is currently the administrator of the emerging Organic, Sustainable, and Regenerative Agriculture program at the New Jersey Department of Agriculture (<a href="https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/md/prog/jerseyorganic.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSRA – NJDA</a>). There will be plenty of time for Q &amp; A, so bring your questions!

Rutgers Organic Materials and Inputs Seminar

NOFA NH: Organic Systems Plan (OSP) Support (2/12)

The fifth annual CSA Summit will be held Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at Old Dutch Church in Kingston, NY. This day-long event will provide an opportunity to collectively explore and address the unique benefits and challenges of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). Featuring farmer-led learning circles, full group discussion, and opportunities for individual networking, the Summit is a much-needed space for CSA farmers and food systems professionals to connect, learn from one another, and identify solutions to make the regional CSA landscape as vibrant as possible.
Join us for a day of farmer-led learning, educational presentations, and community building. The Summit will include refreshments and lunch for all registrants.

Hudson Valley CSA Coalition Summit

NOFA NJ – Weekly Technical Assistance (2/5)

We are returning to Logan Tavern for another night with Black producers in the Washington D.C. Metro (DMV). From beekeepers to hemp growers, we are looking forward to catching up with them to talk about their growing efforts and share our resources with the TOPP initiative. Space is limited.

Dinner with D.C. Metro Farmers at Logan Tavern

Growers discuss planting systems, comparing production costs, varieties, and insect pest and disease management. Speakers: David Marchant, Riverberry Farm, Fairfax; Kevin O’Dwyer Langwater Farm, North Easton, Massachusetts.
Register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/qdka4XX9Q3mDaDrP338r8A?_x_zm_rtaid=6f-SW7qYTBSt4tB6vBF5Ug.1741181264593.8e6a3b7b05ce0f368eb0639f153b2782&amp;_x_zm_rhtaid=738#/registration">here</a>.

Vermont Vegetables and Berry Growers Association- Winter webinar:  What’s new for organic strawberry growers

This webinar focuses on organic management of thrips and the common onion diseases bacterial bulb rot, bacterial leaf blight, downy mildew, and Stemphylium leaf blight.

Vermont Vegetables and Berry Growers Association:Best practices for managing diseases and pests in organic onion, featuring bacterial bulb rot.

This is a multi-day in-person event scheduled for 2/26/25 to 3/1/25.
We are excited to welcome you to West Virginia Small Farm Conference in February. You will have the opportunity to learn, network, and have fun all at the same time. We have a wide variety of sessions and topics to meet your needs. Annually, the conference boasts a variety of useful topics, unique events and informative speakers across dozens of sessions. Learn how to improve production, understand more about marketing, and find out ways to feed local communities and beyond. 
Goals for Conference
&#8211; Unlock the potential of West Virginia small farms to produce food profitably. 
&#8211; Help small farms transition from commodity production to food production for community and local consumption. 
&#8211; Support West Virginia&#8217;s 23,000 small farm families by: 
 &#8211; Providing reliable, tested knowledge about current trends, needed skills, and latest production and operation information 
 &#8211; Building an understanding of how to develop a successful small farming enterprise. 
&#8211; Support and further develop West Virginia&#8217;s food system and local communities by encouraging local production, processing, wholesale and retail marketing, and consumption.

21st Annual West Virginia Small Farm Conference

Tips for improving organic high tunnel tomato yields. In this webinar two growers describe their organic production systems including infrastructure, environmental controls, pruning, fertility, irrigation. An update on research into using alyssum strips alongside tunnels as beneficial habitat is also provided. In addition, a summary of findings from the recent high tunnel tomato benchmarking is shared.
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Vermont Vegetables and Berry Growers Association: Tips for improving high tunnel tomato yields.

Join us for NOFA-NH’s 23rd Annual Winter Conference, &#8220;Sowing Hope, Cultivating Joy,&#8221; on February 8th, 2025, at Southern New Hampshire University,
where inspiration flourishes amidst the chill of winter! This unique New Hampshire event is designed for farmers, gardeners, food system professionals, and organic advocates eager to delve into the power of hope and the joy of tending to our land and communities.
Throughout the day, you’ll engage in workshops, participate in insightful discussions, and connect with fellow changemakers who share your passion for growing food and nurturing community. From innovative farming techniques to effective community outreach, we’ll explore strategies to co-create solutions and develop resilient, flourishing food systems in New Hampshire and beyond. This is more than just a conference; it’s an opportunity to foster connections, share experiences, and ignite your creativity as we work together to inspire growth in our farms, our gardens, and ourselves. Don’t miss this chance to enrich your practices and cultivate lasting joy in your work.

NOFA New Hampshire: 23rd Annual Winter Conference

We will gather at or near the PASA Sustainable Agriculture conference in Lancaster, PA for an afternoon of certification paperwork review and completion. 
Producers can bring their paperwork (at any stage of completeness) to work on it with support and ask questions in an informal group setting with Rodale Organic Consultants.

Paperwork-a-thon: Complete Certification Paperwork with Rodale Consultants

Growers share strategies for growing healthy, profitable plant starts including: crop selction, fertility, work efficiencies, and watering managment for growing plants both for on farm transplanting and retail sales. This webinar will focus on organic managment strategies.

VT Vegetables and Berry Growers Association: Refining greenhouse production for healthy transplants and retail sales

The Southeast New England Agriculture Conference &amp; Trade Show (SNEACTS) is a new collaboration that brings together expertise from across the food system to examine its pressing issues and needs through a broader lens. Folks who have attended SEMAP’s previous Agriculture and Food Conferences will find a familiar setting and event here, but with even more topics and areas of our food system represented.

Southeast New England Agricultural Conference and Trade Show

We invite you to the 2025 Winter Conference: 
Rooted in Abundance
38th Annual NOFA/Mass Winter Conference
This event is in person on February 1st, 2025, UMass Amherst
<a href="https://www.nofamass.org/home/nofa-events/winter-conference/">View details on the Winter Conference page</a>

2025 NOFA/MASS Winter Conference: Rooted in Abundance

NOFA NH: Organic Systems Plan (OSP) Support (1/29)

This is a meeting with over 200 commercial organic growers. There are 13 talks, primarily by farmers. Many of the talks focus on organic practices. There is also a large trade show with a wide range of agricultural supplies and service providers.

Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association Annual Meeting

The second annual Farmer 2 Farmer Conference will feature tracks for aspiring/new farmers, organic farmers, and more. It will also highlight farmer innovations and how farmers can become advocates for sustainable agricultural policies.
At this event, farmers lead the way—because who better to learn from than fellow farmers? Dive into workshops and discussions led by Connecticut farmers, learn how to advocate for farmer needs with our elected officials, and vote for the best invention at our Farm Hack competition.
Not only is this information-packed conference FREE, but we’ve got you covered with a complimentary breakfast and lunch! Don’t forget to bring your extra seeds for an epic seed swap.

Farmer 2 Farmer Conference

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Our state’s food security relies upon local producers and effective, accessible food systems. In order to keep the Garden State well-nourished, NJ farms must find resilience to withstand a changing climate, global economics, and evolving agricultural policies. Join us in Asbury Park for a day (and evening) filled with education, connection, and lots of local food as we highlight efforts to support local farming and food systems throughout the Garden State.
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<li class="elementor-icon-list-item">Saturday Night Film Screening of Roots So Deep with Peter Byck</li>
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NOFA NJ’s 35th Annual Winter Conference

Join NOFA/RI at Farm Fresh RI in Providence on Tuesday January 21st, 9:30 am-2:30 pm for a farmer round table featuring peer to peer discussion of topics crucial to the success of farmers in our region. The day will be divided into three moderated discussions on topics that will be determined by YOU.

NOFA Rhode Island Farmer Roundtable

For more than four decades, the NOFA-NY Winter Conference has convened farmers, food system professionals, educators, advocates, homesteaders, and gardeners who are passionate about building a better food system. Mutual support and the generous exchange of knowledge is a hallmark of the NOFA-NY community as we remain true to our vision of a just and resilient farming system grounded in a diverse community now and for future generations.
The upcoming conference, focused on building resilience in the face of a changing climate, will feature more than 20 educational workshops and the Farmer of the Year keynote speech, a trade show, evening entertainment, and more. To learn more, please visit us at <a href="https://nofany.org/2025conference/">nofany.org/conference</a>.

NOFA New York: 43rd Annual Winter Conference

The 25th annual Virginia Biological Farming Conference will be held January 10-12, 2025 at The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center.
The Virginia Biological Farming Conference brings together farmers, gardeners, eaters, educators, industry professionals, and advocates of sustainable, regenerative, biological, and organic agriculture. The three day Conference includes: Pre-Conference intensive workshops, 60+ concurrent sessions, locally sourced farm meals, book sales with author signings, and 50 tradeshow exhibitors.
Conference highlights include a youth and teen program for ages 5-17, a local farm tour, a silent auction and plenty of networking opportunities! Also featuring a regional networking meeting, fireside chats in an intimate space with a scheduled speaker, morning yoga for farmers, and a networking social with food and drinks.
The Taste of Virginia Expo &amp; Market is a popular space within the Conference to enjoy samples and sales of Virginia food, beverages and handicrafts and the new ‘Farming is Funny’ Comedy Show will be sure not to disappoint!
New in 2025: All Conference registrations include: Breakfast and Lunch on Saturday and Sunday, thoughtfully prepared with local ingredients by the amazing chefs at Hotel Roanoke, from our own VABF member farm food! We’ve also increased our coffee and hot water stations to two locations and added both a morning service and afternoon service.
We listened to your feedback and desire for more networking opportunities! Included in your Registration, on Saturday evening immediately following the end of sessions, we will be having a networking social with appetizers and a cash bar in the Roanoke Ballroom. The networking social will give attendees an opportunity to mingle with tradeshow exhibitors and fellow attendees, as well as provide an additional opportunity to connect with other farmers and farming professionals in your region via regional seating areas.

25th Annual Virginia Biological Conference: Cultivating Connections from the Ground Up

Join NOFA NJ via Zoom and receive focused support with your farm’s needs. Whatever you are working on, NOFA NJ’s Technical Assistance Coordinator will help and connect you to relevant experts in the community.

NOFA New Jersey – Technical Assistance Office Hour

Make 2025 a Profitable Farming Year! Farm Business Financials and Grant Writing

The NEVF Conference includes more than 25 educational sessions over three days, covering major vegetable, berry and tree fruit crops as well as various special topics. A Farmer to Farmer meeting after each morning and afternoon session will bring speakers and farmers together for informal, in-depth discussion on certain issues.
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This conference is special because it is put together with close collaboration between growers and Extension from across the region. The steering committee gathers the best speakers from within our region and across the country to tell you about the latest innovations and advances in the fruit and vegetable industry. Almost every session includes both farmers and research or extension personnel, so you are getting the “best of both worlds.”
There is also an extensive Trade Show with over 120 exhibitors. We hope that you will enjoy your time here, and meet with fellow growers, advisors, researchers, and industry representatives. We want you to leave with new ideas and new information that will have a positive impact on your farm.

New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference

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Participate in strengthening farmer peer support networks. Learn about Organic Farming Mentorship, Food Hub Sales Opportunities with UAC, 3 r’s (Representation, Respect, Resources), &amp; Next Gen Farmer Program
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<div>Current Farmers or anyone planning to start a Farm Business in NJ are welcome to join us for this networking event. The content will be geared towards farmers, with a focus on organic farming.</div>
<div>Light refreshments and snacks may be provided.</div>
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<div>**MORE DETAILS TO COME**</div>
<div>EMAIL TESSM@FOODSHEDALLIANCE.ORG with any questions!</div>
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Farmer Networking- Regional Food System Summit After-Gathering

Please join VABF for conversations about challenges, concerns, and ideas to improve our food and agricultural system and to better support your farm. Feedback from this event will shape VABF&#8217;s program planning, be shared with our grantors, and guide our advocacy efforts to make sure that we&#8217;re working for what matters to you.
We will facilitate small groups to give everyone a chance to contribute and to connect with other farmers through the event.
Zoom link will be provided upon registering.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-22820" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/6746482dfad806776a0370d9.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="1024" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/6746482dfad806776a0370d9.jpg 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/6746482dfad806776a0370d9-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/6746482dfad806776a0370d9-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/6746482dfad806776a0370d9-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
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VABF Virtual Farming Listening Session

Farmer Listening Session at Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek 
Please join us for conversations about challenges, concerns, and ideas to improve our food and agricultural system and to better support your farm. Feedback from this event will shape VABF&#8217;s program planning, be shared with our grantors, and guide our advocacy efforts to ensure we&#8217;re working for what matters to you.
Food and beverages provided.
This event is free and intended for farmers, including farm owners, farm managers, those wanting to establish a farm business, and farm employees.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-22817" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/67463e1ce56e44ff3307c26d.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="1024" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/67463e1ce56e44ff3307c26d.jpg 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/67463e1ce56e44ff3307c26d-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/67463e1ce56e44ff3307c26d-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/67463e1ce56e44ff3307c26d-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />

VABF Farmer Listening Session

The 2024 Vermont Maple Conference, a collaboration between the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers&#8217; Association (VMSMA) and UVM Extension, offers an exciting and informative event for sugar makers of all sizes. The conference kicks off with an in-person Quality School on December 9th in Berlin, Vermont, led by Mark Isselhardt and Jason Lilley. This is followed by three days of online sessions, December 10-13, covering topics from forestry and food safety to climate resiliency. The week concludes on December 14th with an in-person day at Vermont State University, featuring networking opportunities, vendor exhibits, expert talks, and a unique one-on-one “maple confidential” session with Flavor Expert Henry Marckres. All sessions will be recorded and made available post-conference.

VMSMA and UVM Extension Maple Conference

You are invited to the 2024 Virginia Farm to Table Conference: Connecting Food, Farms, and Health on December 5-6, 2024 at the Plecker Workforce Center at Blue Ridge Community College! 
Join us to learn and enjoy collaboration, conversations, and community with farmers, practitioners, researchers, and more.
We aim to bring together farmers, producers, buyers, restaurateurs, food entrepreneurs, community organizers, agricultural development officials, nutrition and dining service directors, dietitians, policymakers, educators, regional food system stakeholders, technical service providers, and regenerative agriculture stakeholders.
Conference highlights include: keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and a Thursday after-hours networking session at Valley Pike Farm Market.
​We are applying for Certified Nutrient Management Planners, Certified Crop Advisors, and continuing education credits for nutritionists and dietitians.

2024 Virginia Farm to Table Conference: Connecting Food, Farms, and Health

Join us for a noontime webinar to learn more about organic certification. This webinar is geared toward any organic-curious or transitioning producer/grower/farmer – veg, berry, other crops (hay, grain), flowers, maple, livestock, dairy &#8211; as well as processors, handlers, technical service providers, etc.
After a short introduction with background on the National Organic Program and values-based certification, three producers in Vermont (vegetable, maple, and dairy) will share about why they choose to certify.
One of the most important parts of the certification process is recordkeeping &#8211; documenting your organic practices and systems. One of the most common questions is, “but what does good recordkeeping look like?” Learn about recordkeeping basics, templates, checklists, and hear from each of the guest farmers about what works best for their business and satisfies organic requirements. Understand what to expect at the inspection and “meet” some Vermont inspectors. Lastly, we’ll discuss organic markets, what consumers want, and what the future might hold for organic products.
While it’s not possible to cover all aspects of organic certification in a short time period, we hope to give you enough information to set some goals or even feel confident to start the organic application. Please bring your questions for the Q &amp; A portion.

Exploring the Value and Process of Organic Certification

Farmer Listening Session at Rising Silo Brewery 
Please join us for conversations about challenges, concerns, and ideas to improve our food and agricultural system and to better support your farm. Feedback from this event will shape VABF&#8217;s program planning, will help guide the future efforts of the Roanoke Foodshed Network and guide our advocacy efforts to make sure that we&#8217;re working for what matters to you.
Food and beverages provided.
This event is free and intended for farmers, including farm owners, farm managers, those wanting to establish a farm business, and farm employees.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-22819" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/672b839f2fc7e41743094802.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="1024" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/672b839f2fc7e41743094802.jpg 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/672b839f2fc7e41743094802-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/672b839f2fc7e41743094802-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/672b839f2fc7e41743094802-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />

Farmer Listening Session at Rising Silo Brewery

This event is meant to demystify the development of an OSP and records system. This in-person event will provide hands-on help with the paperwork aspect of growing Organic. It is the goal that participants will leave with completed forms and record keeping systems that can meet their paperwork needs. These &#8220;serious&#8221; activities will be broken up with games, contests, and general fun.
The location for the event is TBA, date is tentatively scheduled for Nov. 23 or 30. More info. coming soon!

Demystifying Organic and the OSP

This workshop and gathering is for farmers interested in producing compost for on-farm use and those who want to explore the process for gaining approval to sell their compost as “approved for organic farm use.” We’ll cover bed preparation for quality crops, including the farm-made compost, and we’ll review soil test reports, analyzing soil test results, and talking about deficiencies in soil, and how to address them.
Dinner will be provided!

Compost Production for Organic Farms, Bed Prep, Soil Test Report Analysis and Recommendations

The annual West Virginia Women in Agriculture Conference provides research-based and practical educational opportunities for agribusiness women while fostering networking and leadership development. Workshops focus on the five areas of risk management and production enterprises. Farm tours highlight successful operations and provide opportunities for participants to learn from other’s experiences. The conference rotates annually to demonstrate the diversity of agricultural enterprises throughout West Virginia.

West Virginia Women in Agriculture Conference

Farmer Mixer

Everyone can grow organic garlic! Learn different methods for this highly medicinal, versatile, and DEER RESISTANT crop! Come out to the SAgE Sergeantsville Organic Demo Plot to learn different organic methods for planting garlic and get your hands in the soil planting some cloves! We have 3 different varieties, locally sourced from Experimental Farm Network’s Seeds. Participants will learn about different pest mitigation methods, planting techniques, seed spacing, and more!
Tomia MacQueen from <a href="http://wildflowerfarmnj.com/">Wildflower Farm</a> and <a href="http://nofanj.org/">NOFA-NJ</a> Board (among many other amazing accolades) will be joining us to share her expertise on Garlic Planting! Tomia has been growing garlic and teaching others about this amazing crop for many years. We are so grateful to have her share her knowledge and join us in our community planting of the first official crop in our Organic Demonstration Plot in Sergeantsville!

Organic Garlic Planting Workshop

MOFGA’s Farmer to Farmer Conference is known for its intimacy, in-depth treatment of topics and profound discussions. The conference offerings are based on the idea that farmers learn best from their peers and other practitioners. Conference speakers include prominent and accessible university faculty, extension educators and other agricultural professionals. Our unique workshop session format presents talks by both agricultural service professionals and farmers, and then opens up to a farmer discussion that explores both the unique and common experiences of everyone in the room.
Learn from and engage with speakers who are farmers and service providers, including peers and mentors from across Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and more!

2024 Farmer to Farmer Conference

As the foundation of organic farming, soil and its stewardship must be at the center of any production plan. Most production practices influence soil properties, and therefore must be implemented with intention to adequately sustain or enhance its health and quality. The discussion will focus on practices and systems that prioritize soil and contribute towards its capacity to support plant and human health, and overall ecosystem function. Kimberly Dalton (NRCS Soil Conservationist), Joseph Heckman (Extension Specialist in Soil Fertility), and Alex Sawatzky (Assistant Director of Sustainable Agriculture) will talk about cover cropping, mulching, reduced and no-till, soil carbon amendment, conservation cover, and crop/livestock integration. Kimberly will also give an overview of the programs offered by NRCS that provide technical and financial assistance to farmers, including the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and Organic Initiative.

Soil Health, Fertility, and Conservation Workshop

This workshop is designed to guide urban farmers through the process of achieving organic certification. Participants will learn about the essential steps and requirements for obtaining organic certification for their farms. The workshop will cover topics such as organic farming practices, record-keeping, soil health management, and navigating certification standards. It aims to empower urban farmers with practical knowledge and resources to transition to organic agriculture successfully.

Urban Farms: Certifying Organic, One Step at a Time

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-20159" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Site-Prep-oct-2024.jpg 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Join us for a demonstration of multiple different ways to prep a site to transition from a thick hay field to organic food production. We will focus on comparing minimal soil disturbance to heavier plow, and using smaller tools like BCS with rotary plow, solarization with Silage Tarps, broadfork, and more!

Site Prep with Mike Rassweiler of North Slope Farm

The Farmers Organic Roundtable provides an opportunity for organic farmers, those transitioning to organic and those investigating organic production to gather and connect. The goal of this roundtable is to build an organic support network for farmers to discuss issues, solutions, successes, and ideas.
This roundtable is hosted by the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Hampshire (NOFA-NH), Sponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) and facilitated by NOFA-NH&#8217;s TOPP Coordinator.
This recurring meeting will allow farmers to network and build relationships that will support organic production in New Hampshire. Together, we can bring issues to light, help to foster solutions for farmers through the collaboration of state partner organizations, meet with technical advisors and co-create topic-specific meetings, as well as on-farm workshops and collaborations that will build a supportive network of farmers in the Granite State.

Farmers Organic Roundtable

Growers are increasingly interested in cultural practices that improve plant health, extend the growing season, and increase the resilience of their farm’s operation. High tunnels are now widely used on mixed vegetable farms in Maine, and their popularity is only growing. However, a high tunnel is a major investment, and may not be the appropriate choice for every situation. Low tunnels can be an affordable and nimble option for season extension and can protect vulnerable crops from pest damage. Come learn from farmers experienced in the many applications of low tunnels on a mixed vegetable farm and learn about mentorship opportunities for producers transitioning to organic offered through the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).

Tunnel Talk: Low Tunnels in Organic Production

Are you considering USDA Organic Certification but need more clarification about the requirements and process? Becoming a Certified Organic farm is a significant commitment, but it can have tremendous advantages, from increased market competitiveness and improved recordkeeping to accessing additional funding and technical assistance from service providers.
This month’s Demystifying Organic host farm is the VSU Randolph Farm! Dr. Sanjun Gu, Extension Specialist and Associate Professor of Horticulture, will tour us through VSU&#8217;s 416-acre agricultural learning center, home to a multitude of agricultural related research, demonstration and instruction activities. In addition to producing the region&#8217;s traditional row crops, the farm is utilized for research and education in areas of new and niche crops, alternative cropping methods, horticultural crops, nutrient management, water quality, animal production, and aquaculture production.
Join us to demystify the organic certification process and hear about the latest resources, programs and tools. Learn about &#8220;what it takes to transition to certified organic&#8221; with Meredith Morgan, of Quality Certification Services. American Farmland Trust with guide the networking session, where you can speak with organic farmers about your questions regarding the journey through transition to organic production.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20275" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/67001574c856d1403c0bcf55.jpg" alt="" width="680" height="340" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/67001574c856d1403c0bcf55.jpg 680w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/67001574c856d1403c0bcf55-300x150.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 680px) 100vw, 680px" />

Demystifying Organic: Networking, Workshop and Farm Tour at VSU Randolph Farm

This training is for anyone interested in learning more about the organic regulations and how organic certification works. Participants gain specialized knowledge of organic regulations and certification, useful for farms interested in organic certification or practices (whether already certified or interested in transitioning), government agencies, non-profit organizations, technical service providers, or people interested in <a href="https://youtu.be/Px-TGrNbOxE?si=t71v_c1_T6cZUcgF" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">careers in organic certification</a>.
To complete the full course, sign up for the online pre-requisite class, &#8220;Introduction to Organic Agriculture,&#8221; and at least one in-person &#8220;Organic Regulations 101&#8221; class. Participants are welcome to take just the online class, but the in-person class is only available to people who have already completed the online class.

Organic Regulations 101: Crops and Livestock

Join NOFA NJ and Filmmaker Anthony Suau for a panel discussion and screening of Organic Rising, the first feature-length film to demystify organic agriculture for the consumer.
Tickets will be sold at the door, $20 General Admission/$10 for Students. Be sure to arrive early to secure your seat! There is street parking and a municipal parking garage 2 blocks away from the theater. Theater location is at Voorhees Hall #105/Rutgers University, 71 Hamilton Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901. <a href="https://newjerseyfilmfestivalfall2024.eventive.org/schedule?filterVenues[65f338e9ad06d704e15de776]=true">Visit NJ Film Fest Website</a>

Organic Rising: Film Screening at Rutgers Film Co-op

Co-hosted with Mid-Hudson CRAFT, come learn about organic orchard production and what it is like to maintain a split operation. We’ll start with a tour of the farm and finish with a social hour hosted by NOFA-NY.

Organic Fruit Production

This workshop and gathering is for farmers interested in producing compost for on-farm use and those who want to explore the process for gaining approval to sell their compost as “approved for organic farm use.” We’ll cover bed preparation for quality crops, including the farm-made compost, and we’ll review soil test reports, analyzing soil test results, and talking about deficiencies in soil, and how to address them.

This is a monthly reoccurring event designed to spend the first 10 min talking about TOPP and support available, 30 min for an expert presentation regarding organic production methods, and the last 20 minutes is open for an &#8220;ask the expert.&#8221;

Barnyard Banter: Monthly Technical Assistance

Visit <a href="https://vabf.org/events/#!event-list">https://vabf.org/events/#!event-list </a>
More info. coming soon!

Demystifying Organics Workshop at Hobbit Hill Farm

Participate in a hand fiber flax processing workshop, witness the transformation of straw into golden spinnable fiber. See overview of mechanized processing, See examples of products to be produced at the mill, see an overview of PA Flax Project Mill plans.
This event will take place in both Spanish and English with simultaneous interpretation. Spanish-only, English-only, and bilingual speakers are all invited to attend this workshop.

PA Flax Project’s Producer Event Series: Part 3 (Processing)

This year, the NODPA Field Days focuses on demystifying the succession planning process for organic dairy farms.
While there are any number of different webinars, workshops and presentation on farm transfer, none approach the challenge from an organic dairy perspective.
At the 24th Annual NODPA Field Days, we will bring together all of the topics, experts, and experiences that will help guide you through a complex process. We will hear from farmers who have successfully and not so successfully, been through the process, from farmers in the midst of it; from those farmers who have moved on and those who are getting started. Regardless where a person or family is in the farm transfer process, everyone admits that it’s stressful and stirs up a lot of emotion and feelings. Come to hear how everyone has dealt with it, and share your own experiences, concerns and questions.

2024 NODPA Field Days

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-20045" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--300x300.png" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--300x300.png 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--1024x1024.png 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--150x150.png 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post--768x768.png 768w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/one-straw-2-Instagram-Post-.png 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
We&#8217;ll tour One Straw Farm and learn more about managing plant disease and pest pressure on a certified organic farm. We&#8217;ll also learn  about the USDA Organic and Real Organic Project certification process.

One Straw Farm Field Day: Organic Certification, Disease, and Pest Management

The Dartmouth Farm grows more than 4000 pounds of diverse organic produce, with over 60 varieties of vegetables, grains, and flowers. In addition to annual production, Dartmouth hosts several agroforestry research sites, one of which is a small nursery with native shrubs and trees. In this workshop, researcher Kristen Jovanelly will discuss the utility of incorporating trees on farms, some example agroforestry systems and growing your own trees and shrubs. We will overview nursery design for a small and low-input treed system.
Dartmouth Farms goal is for our produce to have impact not only for those who eat it, but for our students too by creating meaningful hands-on experiences on the farm that connects them to our community, our foodshed, and our environment in a tangible way. The farm produces a wide variety of food and hosts a number of educational programs, events, and ongoing research projects. Kristen Jovanelly grew up in Connecticut and studied Conservation Biology at St. Lawrence University and holds a Master of Forestry from the Yale School of the Environment. In pursuit of a PhD, she is currently researching social ecological entanglements.

Exploring Agroforestry and Native Tree Cultivation

Treadlight Farm specializes in growing certified organic ornamental plants and cut flowers. Come learn from the best, as they do an exceptional job of sourcing and producing organic seed and planting stock, and catch a glimpse into their season extension with moveable high tunnels.

Organic Flower Production: Seed, Planting Stock, and Moveable High Tunnels

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-20157" src="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.organictransition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Food-Safe-Harvest-sept-2024.jpg 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Join us with Abeni Ramsey of City Girl Farm to demonstrate Food Safe Harvest and Order Processing on a small scale organic farm. Discussions will cover steps to take to ensure your harvest is meeting food safety standards, how to adapt your situation to start small and scale up, as well as ways to grow and plan your field production to ensure a safe harvest, and more!

Food Safe Harvest Workshop with Abeni Ramsey of City Girl Farm

Common Ground Country Fair

Phillies Bridge Farm Project is a not-for-profit working farm and community hub providing community education and access to sustainably grown produce for local community members, with a focus on food-insecure households. They grow mixed vegetables for CSA and local food access organizations in and around their location in New Paltz, NY. Farmers will provide a tour of their farm, an overview of their organic farming practices, changes they have made in the last few years, and their food sovereignty work. At this event, Cornell Cooperative Extension instructor Crystal Stewart-Courtens will provide a lesson on crop rotation as a key tool in soil fertility and pest management for organic growers.

Crop Rotation Workshop

Attendees will enjoy a field walk of the Student Farm with an educational focus on weed, pest, and disease management for organic farming. Guest speakers include Kris Holmstrom from the Rutgers Vegetable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program and Dr. Andy Wyenandt, an Extension Specialist in Vegetable Pathology. The conversation will be facilitated by Alex Sawatzky, Assistant Director of Sustainable Agriculture &amp; Urban Gardens. There will be an opportunity to network with the guest speakers and other attendees, and light refreshments will be served. Registration is now open! <a href="https://rutgers.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5omKAkVI80DuhQa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CLICK HERE</a> to register for this event.
Guest speaker bios:
Kris Holmstrom has managed the Rutgers Vegetable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program’s north and central New Jersey operations for 38 years. Program outreach involves training student technicians in insect and disease identification and working directly with commercial vegetable growers to develop strategies to manage these pests in environmentally and economically sound ways. Kris holds a B.S. in Plant Science and an M.S. in Plant Pathology from Rutgers University.
Dr. Andy Wyenandt is an Extension Specialist in Vegetable Pathology located at the Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center (RAREC) in Bridgeton, NJ. For the last 20 years, Wyenandt has served as the New Jersey state extension specialist in plant pathology for vegetable and culinary herb diseases, responsible for the identification and control strategies for commercial field and greenhouse growers.

Organic Pest and Disease Management

We have a full slate of topics and presenters from across the County and State for the best in conservation techniques and information on programs and loans available to growers large or small:
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Trifecta conservation practices &amp; irrigation &#8211; Chris Phinney, NRCS Resource Conservationist
</li>
<li>
Trifecta getting started Q &amp; A &#8211; Lindsay Johnston-Fennell, Hancock County NRCS Conservationist
</li>
<li>
Full-field mulching &#8211; Lily Calderwood, Ph.D. UMaine Coop Ext. Wild Blueberry Specialist
</li>
<li>
Full-field mulching in practice &#8211; Peter Jordan, Blueberry Grower &amp; Event Host
</li>
<li>
Opportunities for organic blueberry growers &#8211; Gustavo Diaz, NRCS Soil Conservationist, and Chris Grigsby, Director, MOFGA Certification Services
</li>
<li>
FSA programs &amp; loans &#8211; Ciera Waters, FBAC, &amp; Kimberly Vealey, FPAC from FSA
</li>
<li>
Get your soil tested by HCSWCD Biologist and Board Chair, Mark Whiting
</li>
<li>
Enjoy lunch from a local restaurant &amp; homemade pies with berries from Peter’s farm!
</li>
</ul>

Better Soil, Better Berries: Field Day and Workshop for Hancock County Blueberry Growers

Kick off CISA’s Climate Week with a film screening of Common Ground, a fascinating documentary that dives into the dynamics of modern agriculture and the importance of healthy soils for the longevity of our people and planet.
This is a great opportunity for farmers, gardeners and foodies to sit back and enjoy a well-made film featuring the work we know and love alongside the systems that we are struggling to overcome, and how to move forward together.

Film Screening: Common Ground

Obercreek Farm is a certified organic farm located in Wappinger, NY where they grow diversified seasonal vegetables, herbs, flowers, and hops on 9 acres for a CSA, on-farm store, farmers markets, and local wholesale accounts. They use five greenhouses to produce fresh, high-quality produce to our community through all seasons. Tour participants will receive an overview of the farm and its operations, and learn about various season extension techniques on a certified organic farm.
This event will take place during an open-farm social event.

Farm Social and Season Extension

These free, family-friendly events are dedicated to celebrating local farming communities while advocating for a sustainable regional food system that’s ecologically sound, socially just, and economically viable. All events include farm tours, community education, organic advocacy and information, live music, local food and drinks, a vendor marketplace, and more! Tickets are free!

Farm Fest ’24 Hudson Valley

Join the O’Donnells on Rusted Rooster Farm for a grain harvest field day demonstration and a discussion on drying, storage, and post-harvest grain handling practices.

Grain Harvest Field Day with Rusted Roots Farm

Sisters Hill Farm in Stanfordville, NY is a 400+ member non-profit CSA that has grown more than 1.7 million pounds of organically grown produce since 1999. Dave Hambleton, the head farmer and farm director, has been building his own solutions to common farm problems for over twenty years. This tour will focus on mechanical cultivation and wash and pack efficiencies as a way of reducing wear and tear on a small-scale, sustainable farmers most important tool: their bodies.

Ergonomic Wash and Pack Infrastructure and Cultivation Systems

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The Northeast/MidAtlantic Regional Partnership for Organic Transition is a coalition of partners led by <a href="https://paorganic.org/">Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO)</a> providing technical assistance and support for transitioning and existing organic farmers throughout the Northeastern and MidAtlantic States. The Center serves producers in Pennsylvania, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C.

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The Northeast/MidAtlantic Mentorship Program connects producers transitioning to organic with experienced organic producers who serve as mentors. These mentors guide them through the transition process and offer valuable insights into their journey into organic farming.

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Learn More

TOPP offers a variety of workshops, field days, and educational events in the region to provide technical assistance and training on organic-specific resources and advising.

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To foster connections within the organic agricultural community, we will organize conferences, workshops, and field days to facilitate networking and collaboration.

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<div>TOPP provides targeted training and education for the organic workforce, facilitating a strong workforce to support growth in the industry.</div>
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Events

Regional Partners