Calendar of Events
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1 event,
Farm Employment Law Basics
Farm Employment Law Basics
Farm employment law feels intimidating, but with just a few key rules and operating principles, the farm or ranch business can navigate this potential minefield with confidence. With Farm Commons, learn about the fundamentals of farm employment law, including classifying workers and the obligations of every farm employer. Understand where you need to learn more and where you can sit back with confidence, no matter where you are in your farming journey. Register at the link below.
2 events,
CSA and Wholesale Farm Tour with Shared Legacy Farms
CSA and Wholesale Farm Tour with Shared Legacy Farms
Managing a large CSA as well as wholesale outlets takes a great deal of organization and planning. Kurt and Corinna Bench at Shared Legacy Farms have managed to keep both outlets happy and have implemented practices over the years that keep the work streams efficient. Visit this robust multi-generational farm and see how they manage their processes and keep their customers fulfilled with a steady flow of fresh produce throughout the season. Register at the link below.
Crop and Livestock Integration Field Day
Crop and Livestock Integration Field Day
Greg McGlinch raises poultry and hogs, along with corn, soybeans, oats, clover, and rye on his 450-acre farm. He is one of 31 on-farm research partners focusing on the economic and environmental tradeoffs of crop and livestock integration for the last two years. Hear from project participants and the host about the approaches they have taken to crop and livestock integration, and discuss soil health and other outcomes from both farmer and researcher perspectives. *Please note this event was originally published as happening on Sunday, August 25. Wednesday, August 28 is the corrected date.
1 event,
The ABC of Organic Agriculture, Chromatography, and Sustainable Livestock Management
Jairo Restrepo will conduct an organic- regenerative focused workshop in 2024 at Sobremesa Farm in Bloomington, Indiana. Regenerative agriculture focuses on various approaches to climate resilience through conservation practices, soil regeneration, improving water retention and ultimately improving soil structure, allowing for healthier plant growth. Farmers throughout the US along with programs, supported by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), have seen the importance of employing sustainable practices on farms of various scales to mitigate the effects of climate change. Many of the practices taught at the workshop are easily applicable for various farm scales and to the home gardener. Jairo Restrepo is best known as an agronomist, agricultural engineer and worldwide lecturer, with over 40 years of experience and a trajectory that has spanned in more than 30 countries, giving workshops, conferences and private consultancies. Register at the link below.
2 events,
Powdery Mildew: On-Farm Research Trials and Tribulations
Powdery Mildew: On-Farm Research Trials and Tribulations
The Organic Farmer Researcher Network's September speaker will be grower and small business owner Donnetta Boykin of Endigos Herbals & Organics in Dayton. She will speak about her on-farm research on powdery mildew control alternatives–a timely topic for many of us growing squash this time of year! With the help of a SARE Farmer Rancher grant, Donee compared the effectiveness, cost, and yield impacts of several organic powdery mildew control products. Learn more and register at the link below.
1 event,
Almar Orchards & Cidery Tour
Almar Orchards & Cidery Tour
Join MOFFA for a tour of Almar Orchards & Cidery in Flushing, Michigan. Hear from owner about his journey from a conventional apple grower into a large-scale organic apple orchard in mid-Michigan. He’ll also share his secrets on how to successfully grow apples on a small scale. This family-friendly event will allow you to reconnect with the farm and enjoy some tasty apple products such as organic apple cider, donuts, apple cider vinegar, chewy dried apples, hard ciders, and more that can be purchased from their shop! Register at the link below.
1 event,
Pastured Heritage Sheep & Wool Production
Pastured Heritage Sheep & Wool Production
Join Cricket and Cara for a pasture walk at Ten Cat Farm with Rural Action. Meet the sheep and their guardian llamas while touring their rotational grazing areas. Afterwards, take a closer look at fleeces and yarns from the different breeds. Learn what they have learned so far about raising sheep for both quality wool as well as breeding stock and freezer lamb. They raise heritage breeds that are part of the Livestock Conservancy’s Shave ‘Em to Save ‘Em initiative and can share more about that program as well as cooperative efforts within the local Fibershed. Register at the link below.
4 events,
Turning Dirt into Healthy Soil
Turning Dirt into Healthy Soil
Rick Clark, a prominent organic no-till farmer in Indiana, will describe his operation, including the economics. Brent Nicol from The Nature Conservancy will discuss different methods of testing your soil. Rainfall Simulator and infiltration ring demos will show the value of good soil health. And learn how healthy soil contributes to healthy people with Dani Kusner. Learn more and register at the link below.
The Farm Bill: Why Is It Important for Local Farmers, Available Healthy Food, and Our Future Climate? (with OEFFA)
The Farm Bill: Why Is It Important for Local Farmers, Available Healthy Food, and Our Future Climate? (with OEFFA)
Did you know that Congress must pass a new Farm Bill soon? This legislation will set agricultural, conservation, and food assistance policy and funding priorities for the next five years. Join Earth Justice and Community Partners for an overview, analysis and discussion about the programs covered by the Bill and how we can advocate for the ones that matter the most to Southeast Ohio. Our Presenters: Milo Petruziello, Policy Director of Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) Aimee Delach, Lead Policy Analyst on Climate Change for Defenders of Wildlife
Growing Equity Program
Growing Equity Program
Interested in starting an urban farm? Want to resolve the food desert issues in your neighborhood? Are you already growing a vegetable garden and want to earn a few extra bucks? Join this urban agriculture business assistance program with Central State University Extension. Fall Business Series 1: Tuesday, Sep. 10 - Business Mission Vision Values Tuesday, Sep. 17 - Business Structures Tuesday, Sep. 24 - Business Planning Tuesday, Oct. 1- Business Marketing Tuesday, Oct. 8 - Business Records and Financials Tuesday, Oct. 15- Business Operations and Resources This program is free, but registration is required at the link below.
Unlocking Local Grain Potential
Unlocking Local Grain Potential
This webinar series is intended to teach small grain-related businesses about successful strategies for working with local grains. The three sessions will cover grain testing with Hartwick College (September 10), strategies for bakers to gradually scale their use of local grains through flour blending with King Arthur Flour (October 7), and effective strategies for storytelling and marketing local grains (November 4). Learn more and register at the link below.
1 event,
Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day
Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day returns on Wednesday, September 11 to Purdue University’s MEIGS Horticultural Research Farm in Lafayette, Indiana. MMWCFD connects farmers, machinery manufacturers, and the allied trades from all over the United States and Canada – because it is THE place to see weeding tools. The morning features a trade-show where companies can connect one-on-one with farmers, and educational sessions, and the afternoon features field demonstrations in vegetable and row crops. Register at the link below.
2 events,
Ohio Pawpaw Festival
The Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a fun-filled, educational community event celebrating one of America’s largest native tree fruits, the pawpaw (Asimina triloba). This all-weekend event highlights the rich history and future possibilities of the pawpaw through delectable food and beverages, and a full line-up of presentations and activities that cover pawpaw growing, cooking, genetics, medical use and other topics related to sustainability. There will be a community conversation organized by OEFFA about farmland access in the Meigs and Athens County area during the festival. Learn more and register for the festival at the link below.
The What, Why and How of Organic Webinar Series
The What, Why and How of Organic Webinar Series
This three-part webinar series is primarily focused on training individuals who provide services to farmers, such as MSU Extension staff. However, the program is open to all, including organic-curious farmers. Zoom webinar information will be provided after registration. September 13 - What Learn about USDA Organic rules, approved products and participate in an Organic System Plan interactive activity . September 20 - Why Learn from a variety of farmers the reasons why they chose to pursue organic certification for their farm, a different type of certification or no certification at all. September 27 - How Learn all about getting certified, including: the process of choosing a certifier, the organic system plan and recordkeeping.
2 events,
Land Access in Southeastern Ohio: OEFFA Community Conversation at Pawpaw Festival
Land Access in Southeastern Ohio: OEFFA Community Conversation at Pawpaw Festival
The Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a fun-filled, educational community event celebrating one of America’s largest native tree fruits - the pawpaw! As you enjoy the fun and food of the fest, stop by the Mother Earth News tent on Sunday, September 15 from 1 - 2 pm. OEFFA will facilitate a community conversation engaging farmers and landholders in the Athens/Meigs/Vinton County area. While the area is rich in sustainable agriculture and active community care for the environment, it still faces many of the same statewide challenges of keeping farmland affordable, accessible, and available for those who feed us. As development pressure increases and farmland prices rise, OEFFA will bring together key stakeholders to discuss the current and future state of land access for new and retiring farmers. Join the conversation and talk with county commissioners, land bank representatives, real estate professionals, and land seekers. Together we will discuss the current state of land access, share personal experiences, brainstorm solutions, and envision a future where sustainable, local agriculture can continue to thrive.
1 event,
Farmer Help Shop
Farmer Help Shop
OEFFA's team of educators is available to assist farmers at any stage of their journey. Whether you are making the switch to organic, are already certified, or have questions about sustainable agriculture practices, OEFFA can share guidance and support. Drop in virtually each month to talk to sustainable agriculture educators with your queries and questions. Click the link below to register and receive the Zoom meeting link.
1 event,
Growing Equity Program
Growing Equity Program
Interested in starting an urban farm? Want to resolve the food desert issues in your neighborhood? Are you already growing a vegetable garden and want to earn a few extra bucks? Join this urban agriculture business assistance program with Central State University Extension. Fall Business Series 1: Tuesday, Sep. 10 - Business Mission Vision Values Tuesday, Sep. 17 - Business Structures Tuesday, Sep. 24 - Business Planning Tuesday, Oct. 1- Business Marketing Tuesday, Oct. 8 - Business Records and Financials Tuesday, Oct. 15- Business Operations and Resources This program is free, but registration is required at the link below.
1 event,
Sowing Seeds for Success
Sowing Seeds for Success
Are you thinking about starting your own food- or farm-based business and don’t know where to begin? Are you ready to level up or are you thinking about adding a new venture to your existing operations? Two farmer entrepreneurs will be presenting the Sowing Seeds For Success: A Farm Business Toolkit curriculum to help you build your farm business dream. A simple guide created by small farmers to help get you started, it covers business structures, funding opportunities, marketing and fundraising, agritourism basics, and more. You and your great business idea (September 19) Setting up shop (September 26) Paint a picture (October 3) Register at the link below.
2 events,
2024 Food Policy Summit
2024 Food Policy Summit
Food systems professionals and advocates are invited to attend a day of riveting discussion, networking and innovation to move toward nurturing a just, sustainable and thriving food system for all Ohioans. Register at the link below.
The What, Why and How of Organic Webinar Series
The What, Why and How of Organic Webinar Series
This three-part webinar series is primarily focused on training individuals who provide services to farmers, such as MSU Extension staff. However, the program is open to all, including organic-curious farmers. Zoom webinar information will be provided after registration. September 13 - What Learn about USDA Organic rules, approved products and participate in an Organic System Plan interactive activity . September 20 - Why Learn from a variety of farmers the reasons why they chose to pursue organic certification for their farm, a different type of certification or no certification at all. September 27 - How Learn all about getting certified, including: the process of choosing a certifier, the organic system plan and recordkeeping.
2 events,
Farm Marketing Conference
Farm Marketing Conference
Join Central State University for a day packed with marketing insights that you can apply directly to your operations. Learn about different point of sales that help with tracking inventory, sales, and other various sale information, enjoy a lunch, and listen in on farmer panels and roundtables. Register at the link below.
Growers & Griots: A Screening & Conservation Series (High on the Hog)
Growers & Griots: A Screening & Conservation Series (High on the Hog)
Growing & Growth Collective will focus on the roots of Black foodways and the path toward food sovereignty. Following each 45- to 55-minute screening, the audience will participate in a guided reflection led by Dr. Jared Grant, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics at The Ohio State University. Tickets are $10 per person OR BOGO - $5 per person with a 2-for-1 deal! Bring a friend! Part 1: Sunday, June 29 (1-3 p.m.) Part 2: Sunday, July 28 (1-3 p.m.) Part 3: Sunday, August 25 (1-3 p.m.) Part 4: Sunday, September 29 (1-3 p.m.)
1 event,
Growing Equity Program
Growing Equity Program
Interested in starting an urban farm? Want to resolve the food desert issues in your neighborhood? Are you already growing a vegetable garden and want to earn a few extra bucks? Join this urban agriculture business assistance program with Central State University Extension. Fall Business Series 1: Tuesday, Sep. 10 - Business Mission Vision Values Tuesday, Sep. 17 - Business Structures Tuesday, Sep. 24 - Business Planning Tuesday, Oct. 1- Business Marketing Tuesday, Oct. 8 - Business Records and Financials Tuesday, Oct. 15- Business Operations and Resources This program is free, but registration is required at the link below.
1 event,
Sowing Seeds for Success
Sowing Seeds for Success
Are you thinking about starting your own food- or farm-based business and don’t know where to begin? Are you ready to level up or are you thinking about adding a new venture to your existing operations? Two farmer entrepreneurs will be presenting the Sowing Seeds For Success: A Farm Business Toolkit curriculum to help you build your farm business dream. A simple guide created by small farmers to help get you started, it covers business structures, funding opportunities, marketing and fundraising, agritourism basics, and more. You and your great business idea (September 19) Setting up shop (September 26) Paint a picture (October 3) Register at the link below.
2 events,
2024 Black Farming Conference
The Black Indigenous People of Color Food and Farming Network (BFFN)’s fifth annual Black Farming Conference is taking place Friday and Saturday, September 27 and 28 in Columbus. Visit the link below for more information on conference programming.
The What, Why and How of Organic Webinar Series
The What, Why and How of Organic Webinar Series
This three-part webinar series is primarily focused on training individuals who provide services to farmers, such as MSU Extension staff. However, the program is open to all, including organic-curious farmers. Zoom webinar information will be provided after registration. September 13 - What Learn about USDA Organic rules, approved products and participate in an Organic System Plan interactive activity . September 20 - Why Learn from a variety of farmers the reasons why they chose to pursue organic certification for their farm, a different type of certification or no certification at all. September 27 - How Learn all about getting certified, including: the process of choosing a certifier, the organic system plan and recordkeeping.
2 events,
Livestock Management Farm Tour
Livestock Management Farm Tour
MoSo Farm is a small farm in southeast Ohio raising grass-fed beef and pastured pork for the community. The farmers aim to raise pastured meats in order to regenerate soil, sequester carbon, and provide nutritious food to customers. On this tour, attendees will see how they rotate cattle daily to fresh pasture and manage pigs on pasture, as well as how they planted 510 trees in order to implement silvopasture on 10 acres.
1 event,
Growers & Griots: A Screening & Conservation Series (High on the Hog)
Growers & Griots: A Screening & Conservation Series (High on the Hog)
Growing & Growth Collective will focus on the roots of Black foodways and the path toward food sovereignty. Following each 45- to 55-minute screening, the audience will participate in a guided reflection led by Dr. Jared Grant, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics at The Ohio State University. Tickets are $10 per person OR BOGO - $5 per person with a 2-for-1 deal! Bring a friend! Part 1: Sunday, June 29 (1-3 p.m.) Part 2: Sunday, July 28 (1-3 p.m.) Part 3: Sunday, August 25 (1-3 p.m.) Part 4: Sunday, September 29 (1-3 p.m.)
1 event,
Surviving the Drought of 2024 and Beyond
Surviving the Drought of 2024 and Beyond
If you are a livestock producer, you need to see this! Extreme to exceptional drought is something we don’t experience on a regular basis and most of us don’t plan for it. Jim Gerrish, grazing consultant, from Mackay, Idaho will join Muskingum Soil and Water Conservation District on Monday September 30, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. for a Live Zoom meeting. Jim will be sharing management information that will help us deal with the drought now and into the future. Jim’s extensive experience with grazing management and drought conditions will give us a variety of ideas to be able to manage through this drought and the future impacts. He is concerned about the sustainability of family farms and speaks at producer-oriented workshops, seminars and field days He consults on grazing across the United States and Canada. Jim spent 22 years at the University of Missouri Forage Systems Research Center. He helped write the Missouri Grazing Manual. He has written a monthly column in The Stockman Grass-Farmer and has authored three books. The titles of the books are Management-Intensive Grazing: The Grassroots of Grass Farming, Kick the Hay Habit: A Practical Guide to Year-Around Grazing, and most recently Keeping It Green, A Handbook for Creating & Managing Irrigated Pasture. The current weather conditions have put additional stress on our operations. It is good to get information from someone who has been there and done that. Jim Gerrish is one of those people! There are two ways to attend the event – virtually by Zoom or join us for a watch party/dinner and discussion at Rolling Plains Global Methodist Church (3350 Moxahala Park Rd., Zanesville, OH 43701). This program is sponsored by the Muskingum SWCD and the Southern Ohio Grazing Council. You can register for this Zoom meeting by using the link below.
1 event,
Growing Equity Program
Growing Equity Program
Interested in starting an urban farm? Want to resolve the food desert issues in your neighborhood? Are you already growing a vegetable garden and want to earn a few extra bucks? Join this urban agriculture business assistance program with Central State University Extension. Fall Business Series 1: Tuesday, Sep. 10 - Business Mission Vision Values Tuesday, Sep. 17 - Business Structures Tuesday, Sep. 24 - Business Planning Tuesday, Oct. 1- Business Marketing Tuesday, Oct. 8 - Business Records and Financials Tuesday, Oct. 15- Business Operations and Resources This program is free, but registration is required at the link below.
1 event,
Sowing Seeds for Success
Sowing Seeds for Success
Are you thinking about starting your own food- or farm-based business and don’t know where to begin? Are you ready to level up or are you thinking about adding a new venture to your existing operations? Two farmer entrepreneurs will be presenting the Sowing Seeds For Success: A Farm Business Toolkit curriculum to help you build your farm business dream. A simple guide created by small farmers to help get you started, it covers business structures, funding opportunities, marketing and fundraising, agritourism basics, and more. You and your great business idea (September 19) Setting up shop (September 26) Paint a picture (October 3) Register at the link below.