In this workshop, we’ll work backward through the IMO process, focusing on IMO4, a core practice of Korean Natural Farming (KNF). Rather than making IMOs from scratch, we’ll use fully prepared IMO4 to build soil fertility. You’ll see how to apply IMO4 in the field alongside a terminated cover crop, which will provide green biomass to feed soil microbes and jumpstart nutrient cycling.

Go Nuts is our informational and conversation-rich agroforestry call. During this call which takes place every other odd month, we will discuss all things related to agroforestry, from planting and tree establishment to infrastructure and consumer access. This includes insight into the variety of species of trees and shrubs and their various applications as well as discussing more technical elements such as soil health or animal integration. All of these discussions are grounded in the relevancy of agroforestry as a unified food systems solution, and how it can help sustain our environment, improve soil health and boost community resilience. Our goal is to provide an informative and entertaining experience for our participants, so don’t hesitate to call in with questions or comments. We look forward to hearing from you!

Looking to make the shift to or improve your organic growing, but don’t know where to start? Join our Growing Organic Together monthly calls! This is a supportive, welcoming space where people of all backgrounds come together to learn, share, and grow. Each month, we explore new ways to incorporate organic and sustainable practices into our growing spaces, with guidance from a variety of experts and a community that encourages growth and connection. Whether you're small or large scale farming, looking to improve your Organic Systems Plan or simply interested in the organic movement, you’ll find inspiration and support here. We will be centering topics of transition to Organic.

Unlock the mysteries of soil and plant chemistry in our Chemical Harmony Workshop. Dive into the fascinating realm of nutrient management and soil analysis as we explore the intricate balance of elements essential for healthy plant growth. Through engaging activities and hands-on demonstrations, participants will learn how to collect soil samples effectively and analyze chemical properties using refractometers and soil probes. From understanding nutrient chelation to the basics of fermentation techniques, this workshop offers valuable insights into optimizing soil fertility and promoting sustainable agriculture. Join us to discover the secrets hidden within the soil and harness the power of chemistry to nurture thriving ecosystems and bountiful harvests. This workshop is offered without cost. A light lunch will be provided.

Curious about using free, organic, and readily available on-site inputs to improve your raised bed system?  Hopestill Farm builds healthy soil by largely avoiding tilling, using leaf mulch as a key ally in a low-till approach. Leaves are filled with nutrients and carbon, making them an excellent amendment. Hopestill’s farmers have found the effects on the soil to be truly remarkable —and while there are still struggles with persistent weeds like quackgrass, they have a lot of lessons and success stories to share.   At this relaxed on-farm dinner and discussion, we’ll be gathering around the practice of using leaf mulch in a no-till system: the benefits, challenges and tools to make it work. Bring your questions and experiences to share with the group!

Summer squash is not only versatile in the kitchen and abundant in the garden, it’s also an important source of fiber and nutrients, especially when grown in healthy soils. Join the NOFA/Mass Food Access Team to learn how to make quick and nutritious meals with the summer squash from your garden harvests (or farm share).  Anyone that attends the session can participate in making this delicious dish, and take home samples.

Are you looking to improve your landscaping and gardening techniques, and learn more sustainable ways to prepare, plant and tend your lawns & beds? Whether you are a professional landscaper or a home gardener, this workshop will help you adopt and integrate landscaping practices that are not only beautiful, but support essential ecosystem […]

We are excited to invite you to our bimonthly Soil Health Calls! These calls are designed to provide a platform for farmers, researchers, and experts to share their knowledge, experiences, and insights on soil health.  Our aim is to create a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about improving soil health. Our calls will cover a range of topics related to soil health, including soil biology, organic matter, nutrient management, and any topic of relevance to the NOFA community and beyond. We will also have guest speakers who will share their expertise and insights on the latest developments in the field.

Join us for this opportunity to see what organic soil care can look like on a detailed and scientific level, in conjunction with the unique array of specialty crops  from Hilltop Farm & Fiber Arts. If you’ve felt  the itch to grow something other than  vegetables, this is a great time to learn about growing natural  dye plants , which can be  annual or perennial, and many of which also have the benefit of showy flowers.  Hilltop Farm also grows garlic, rhubarb and seeds. The workshop will be split in half, the first part of the day focusing on soil assessments for beginning and learning farmers, and the second half exploring the links between soil stewardship and specialty  markets and income streams, along with  how to process these niche plants  in keeping with certified organic standards!

This is a new workshop we’ve been wanting to do for a while! Participants will build their own beautiful creation of wood and sacred and found objects to enhance your own garden or yard, to promote meditative practices and honoring of the land. A great way to celebrate the summer solstice.

Space limited, pre-registration required, sliding […]

Please join the next No Till Grower Meeting on Sunday June 22nd 1pm-6:30pm at Tobacco Road Farm in Connecticut. This event is geared toward farmers who are growing using no till, ecological practices or are actively transitioning to these methods. These events are not intended for gardeners or homesteaders. You can sign up here. Also learn about organic mentorship opportunities offered through the Transition to Organic Partnership Program! This event will be limited to 35 people and dinner will be provided.

Learn to preserve the bounty of the season and enjoy delicious, homegrown food year-round. This hands-on workshop will teach you a variety of food preservation techniques, from fermentation to canning and dehydrating.

This Twilight workshop will focus on building a sustainable farm business, particularly in the critical first years, and diversifying market channels to maximize success. Night Owl Farm leans into Ali Oakley’s background as a former teacher and runs a summer program for kids, a wide range of public workshops, a seedling sale, CSA, and online […]