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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T193000
DTSTAMP:20260821T184217Z
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SUMMARY:Land Back\, Land Care: Nipmuc Stewardship in a Changing Climate
DESCRIPTION:People involved in organic farming and sustainable agriculture already understand that how we care for land matters. But sustainability also invites us to ask deeper questions: What is our relationship with the land? What responsibilities come with caring for it? And can agriculture truly be sustainable if we change how we care for land without examining how we came to possess it? Join the Nipmuc Indian Development Corporation (NIDC) for a conversation about Nipmuc land stewardship\, farming\, climate resilience\, and Land Back. Drawing from NIDC’s current work caring for farms\, forests\, waterways\, and rematriated lands\, we will explore how relationships with land are connected to cultural continuity\, food sovereignty\, ecological restoration\, and the future of Nipmuc communities. \nParticipants will be invited to consider: \n\nExplore how Nipmuc land stewardship extends beyond farming to relationships with forests\, water\, plants\, animals\, community\, and future generations.\nLearn about NIDC’s contemporary work with farming\, food sovereignty\, ecological restoration\, and the stewardship of rematriated lands.\nConsider the relationship between Indigenous land dispossession\, Land Back\, and climate resilience.\nExamine the difference between learning from Indigenous perspectives and extracting Indigenous cultural knowledge or practices.\nConsider ways farmers\, landowners\, and others can build meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities and move from acknowledgment toward reparative action.\n\nRegister Online Now\nAbout: \nThe Nipmuc Indian Development Corporation (NIDC) is a Nipmuc-led nonprofit organization working to strengthen Nipmuc communities through land stewardship\, food sovereignty\, cultural revitalization\,  language reclamation\, youth and community programs\, and the return of land to Nipmuc care. NIDC’s work is rooted in the understanding that land\, culture\, community\, and the well-being of future generations are deeply connected. \nToday\, NIDC cares for and supports the stewardship of rematriated lands across Nipmuc homelands\, including farms\, forests\, waterways\, and areas being restored for food\, medicine\, habitat\, and community use. This work brings together farming\, forestry\, ecological restoration\, education\, and community building while creating opportunities for Nipmuc people to renew relationships with lands from which they have long been separated. \n  \nAbout the Instructors: \nPresenters from the Nipmuc Indian Development Corporation (NIDC) bring experience in land stewardship\, farming and food sovereignty\, ecological restoration\, cultural and language reclamation\, and community development. Their work is grounded in contemporary Nipmuc efforts to return to and care for land\, strengthen community relationships\, and create opportunities for future generations to live\, learn\, grow food\, and care for Nipmuc homelands. \nRather than presenting Indigenous knowledge as a set of practices that can be separated from culture and place\, NIDC presenters will share perspectives from their own experiences caring for land and rebuilding land-based relationships within Nipmuc communities. \n  \nAccessibility: \nClosed captions will be available. \n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nContact Hannah at hannah@nofamass.dreamhosters.com \n  \nPartners \n \nHassanamisco Nipmuc Band\n The state-recognized Nipmuc tribe in Massachusetts and leader in land stewardship\, cultural continuity\, and the return of land to Nipmuc care. \n \nBelchertown-Nipmuc Farm Conservation Alliance\n A partnership supporting the conservation of agricultural land and the return of Nipmuc people to farming and land stewardship in Belchertown.
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/land-back-land-care-nipmuc-stewardship-in-a-changing-climate/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Community Call,NOFA/Mass Event,Online
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261014T191500
DTSTAMP:20260910T213943Z
CREATED:20260910T213943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T213943Z
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SUMMARY:Sustainable & Responsible Investing Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening webinar on aligning your investments with your values. Learn how your investment choices can benefit both your portfolio and the causes you care about. We’ll also explore tax-smart giving strategies – including gifts of stock\, QCDs\, and Donor-Advised Funds – that can support both your financial goals and the future of mission-driven organizations like NOFA/Mass. \nFeaturing guest speaker: Lenore Reiner\, Executive Director of Responsible Investment Strategy\, Calvert Investments \nWith a special appearance by: Doug Calnan\, from Socially Conscious Wealth Management\, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services\, LLC. \n  \nRegister Online on Zoom\n  \nSponsored by:\n \n\nSocially Conscious Wealth Management\, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services\, LLC. \nWith special thanks to longtime NOFA/Mass supporter Doug Calnan for helping make this event possible. \nPresenter affiliation: Calvert Investments.
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/sustainable-responsible-investing-webinar/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event
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ORGANIZER;CN="NOFA/Mass Ed Events":MAILTO:events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260922T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260922T190000
DTSTAMP:20260714T193532Z
CREATED:20260325T155537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T193532Z
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SUMMARY:Scaling No-Till Vegetables: Farm Tour & Networking Event
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a farm tour at Gaining Ground highlighting no-till vegetable production at scale. Gaining Ground has expanded vegetable\, flower\, and cover crop production from 3.5 acres in 2023\, to around 4 acres in 2024\, 5 acres in 2025\, and 8 acres in 2026. Farming in partnership with Minuteman National Historical Park\, the Gaining Ground team has transformed former parkland into a highly productive vegetable operation rooted in soil health principles. This event will center on the team’s approach to growing at scale while staying rooted in no-till principles. This will include a discussion of Gaining Ground’s processes for putting new land into production\, their staffing structure and volunteer programming\, as well as their general systems for bringing beds from seed to harvest to rest. \nDuring the tour\, participants will hear about the evolution of the farm’s systems and staffing\, key decisions that have shaped production and expansion\, and lessons learned during this first season growing on all 8 acres that they have in production. They’ll briefly touch on the unique experience of farming on public land before wrapping up with shared food and open networking time to connect with fellow farmers and growers.  \nRegister Online Now\nAbout: \nGaining Ground is a non-profit\, no-till\, organic farm in Concord\, MA. At their flagship farm and satellite fields they actively cultivate 8 acres of land to grow over 50 varieties of vegetables\, herbs\, fruit\, and flowers in fields interspersed with perennial hedgerows. They produce for 18 hunger relief organizations with the help of a community of volunteers and donate 100% of the food they grow. They harvest over 133\,000 pounds of produce annually\, supplying more than 2\,100 food-insecure households each week in the Greater Boston region. They also welcome over 3\,500 volunteers of all ages and abilities to the farm each season. \n  \nAbout the Instructors: \nMark Congdon (he/him) – Director of Agriculture and Volunteer Experience: Born and raised in Shrewsbury\, Massachusetts\, Mark(he/him) joined Gaining Ground as our first Director of Agriculture in 2023. He received his two years of farmer training as a farmer’s apprentice at Caretaker Farm in Williamstown. Mark continued to grow as a farmer managing Saltbox Farm in Concord for 9 years and then Honey Nut Farm in Hopkinton prior to bringing his experience here to Gaining Ground. He is excited for the opportunity to direct Gaining Ground’s expansion onto newly leased land in the Minuteman National Historical Park. Mark loves to travel and experience unique plant life all over the world. He also enjoys hiking\, meditation\, supporting local farmer’s markets\, and being part of a food movement that brings sustainable agriculture to local communities. \nMaddie Weikel (she/they) – Assistant Grower and Education Coordinator: Maddie (she/they) joined the Gaining Ground team in 2023 after three-ish growing seasons learning about organic\, no-till systems at a different farm in the area. They find joy and power in farming and in the notion that cultivating deep connection to land offers us tools for dismantling systems of harm and for building the world that we want to live in. Maddie believes that we all have a role to play in the work to nourish our communities and that it is our duty to take care of each other and of the land. Since graduating from New York University in 2020\, Maddie’s farming journey has moved alongside a reintroduction to Judaism. She is inspired by the many lessons that ever-evolving Jewish tradition has to share about liberatory land stewardship\, and vice versa. When not out in the fields\, you can find Maddie making to-do lists\, collaging\, yelling\, vacuuming\, and sharing meals with friends. \nRegister Online Now\nAbout the Project: \nThis event is sponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture and co-sponsored by NOFA/Mass.  \n  \nAccessibility: \nGaining Ground is most accessible via car. The farm is also a few miles away from the Concord commuter rail stop\, as well as the “Hanscom Field Dr @ Old Bedford Rd” stop on the 76 bus. There are two bathrooms on site—one Port-o-potty that is serviced biweekly\, as well as a bathroom connected to the barn and kitchen. Please note that Gaining Ground is located next to an airport\, so there are frequently loud planes flying overhead. There are four picnic tables with benches and up to 15 chairs available for seating.  \nThe pavilion at Gaining Ground\, where we will be gathering prior to and after our farm tour\, is located off of a loosely paved gravel road\, and there is a wheelchair accessible bathroom about 100ft from the pavillion (people who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices visit the farm on a regular basis throughout the growing season). \n  \nPlease share if you have any additional accessibility concerns. \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nWe will still meet if there is a rain shower. In case of dangerous weather (lightning\, high winds)\, we will reconvene on Thursday\, September 24. For information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 25 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space!  \n  \nRegistration opens July 14th. \n  \nQuestions? \nContact Randy at events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/scaling-no-till-vegetables-farm-tour-networking-event/
LOCATION:Gaining Ground Farm\, 341 Virginia Rd.\, Concord\, 01742
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T193000
DTSTAMP:20260710T153533Z
CREATED:20260331T000937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T153533Z
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SUMMARY:Soil Health in Organic Systems Monthly Calls: Putting Your Soil to Bed: Fall Cover Crops & Winter Preparation
DESCRIPTION:Putting Your Soil to Bed: Fall Cover Crops & Winter Preparation  \nWith Yoko Takemura \nAs summer transitions into fall\, the choices we make now can set the stage for healthier soils next season. Join NOFA/Mass and Yoko Takemura of Assawaga Farm for a community conversation on preparing your fields and gardens for winter through thoughtful soil stewardship. We’ll explore selecting and establishing cover crops\, building organic matter and compost\, mulching\, and other practices that protect living soils\, suppress weeds\, and improve fertility through the colder months. Bring your questions and experiences as we discuss practical\, seasonally appropriate strategies for putting your farm or garden “to bed” while investing in next year’s success. \nRegister in advance for this meeting: \nRegister Online on Zoom\nJoin NOFA/Mass for our monthly soil health calls\, where we explore the on-farm processes and practices that shape resilient\, thriving soils. Our facilitators will guide participants through practical strategies that influence soil integrity in organic systems. Each session offers space to ask questions\, discuss specific methodologies\, and learn directly from peers about what’s working on their farms. \nTopics range from organic amendments\, cover cropping systems\, reduced tillage and compaction mitigation strategies\, nutrient cycling\, soil biology and microbial life\, organic systems plans\, and other stewardship practices designed to strengthen the long-term health and productivity of your farm. \nDate: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month starting in March – September\n \nTime: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM \n  \nAfter registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \n \nTOPP is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources. Farmer-to-farmer mentorship\, workshops\, webinars\, field days\, technical assistance\, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production\, the certification process\, market opportunities\, and more. Read more and sign up to be a mentor or transitioning farmer mentee at organictransition.org
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/soil-health-in-organic-systems-monthly-calls-8/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Beginning Farmers,NOFA/Mass Community Call,NOFA/Mass Event,Online,Soil Health,TOPP
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260916
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260918
DTSTAMP:20260819T164442Z
CREATED:20260522T204340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260819T164442Z
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SUMMARY:Northeast Growing Together Conference
DESCRIPTION:This event supports current and aspiring organic farmers through 20+ educational workshops\, practical technical assistance sessions\, and meaningful opportunities to connect with peers across the food and farming community. Whether you’re just beginning your organic journey or looking to deepen your expertise\, you’ll gain real-world insights you can apply right away. \nSponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program. \nLearn more & register today
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/northeast-growing-together-conference/
LOCATION:The Rodale Institute\, 611 Siegfriedale Road\, Kutztown\, PA\, 19530\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260826T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260826T190000
DTSTAMP:20260715T205224Z
CREATED:20260624T141221Z
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SUMMARY:On-Farm Fertility & Ferments: Farmer Networking Session
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Benson’s Pond Farm for a look at building on-farm fertility through fermented plant & fruit inputs. This casual\, educational and networking session will explore how these foliar fertilizers and amendments are made on-farm\, applied\, and tracked over time using both mineral and biological testing. We’ll dig into the methodology\, pricing\, and observed benefits after five years of use in a transitioning system: what’s changed\, what’s worked\, and what’s still evolving. Out in the bog\, we’ll observe plant & soil conditions as indicators of biological activity and health. \nWe’ll touch on shared water considerations and the realities of moving toward organic certification\, and close with time to connect\, share experiences\, and continue the conversation with fellow growers. This session is designed for fellow cranberry growers as well as anyone who is interested in developing on-farm fertility strategies rooted in biology. \nRegister Online Now\nAbout the Instructors: \nCass Gilmore is a third-generation cranberry grower in Massachusetts who\, since 2020\, has been transitioning the farm from conventional chemical inputs to regenerative practices. Central to this shift is a commitment to closing the loop on farm inputs – reducing external dependencies while building on-farm fertility. As the transition has progressed\, biological life across the farm has surged\, with beneficial organisms emerging at levels not previously observed on this or other cranberry operations.  \nAccessibility: \nThis event takes place on a working cranberry bog\, which includes uneven\, soft\, and potentially wet terrain. Participants should be prepared to walk on irregular ground. Due to these conditions\, accessibility may limited for those with mobility challenges or who require firm\, level pathways during the tour. There is an ADA accessible bathroom on site. \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 20 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space!  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nContact Randy at events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com with any questions. \n  \nPartners & Sponsors
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/on-farm-fertility-ferments-farmer-networking-session/
LOCATION:Benson Pond Cranberries and Barn\, 6 Pine St.\, Middleboro\, 02346\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260819T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260819T193000
DTSTAMP:20260710T153544Z
CREATED:20260331T000556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T153544Z
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SUMMARY:Soil Health in Organic Systems Monthly Calls: Soil Stewardship in the Heat of Summer
DESCRIPTION:Soil Stewardship in the Heat of Summer \nWith Sister Anna Gilbert-Muhammad \nAugust brings some of the season’s greatest challenges and opportunities for your soil. Join NOFA/Mass and Sister Anna Gilbert-Muhammad\, Food Sovereignty Director with the Pocasset Pokanoket Land Trust\, for a community conversation on practical strategies to improve water retention\, keep soils covered\, and build resilience through the hottest weeks of the growing season. Drawing on her work supporting community gardens and food sovereignty initiatives across western Massachusetts\, Sister Anna will share approaches to soil stewardship that strengthen both our growing spaces and our communities. Bring your questions\, experiences\, and ideas as we explore cover cropping\, moisture management\, and simple practices that help soils thrive now and into the seasons ahead. \nRegister in advance for this meeting: \nRegister Online on Zoom\nAfter registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nAbout: \nJoin NOFA/Mass for our monthly soil health calls\, where we explore the on-farm processes and practices that shape resilient\, thriving soils. Our facilitators will guide participants through practical strategies that influence soil integrity in organic systems. Each session offers space to ask questions\, discuss specific methodologies\, and learn directly from peers about what’s working on their farms. \nTopics range from organic amendments\, cover cropping systems\, reduced tillage and compaction mitigation strategies\, nutrient cycling\, soil biology and microbial life\, organic systems plans\, and other stewardship practices designed to strengthen the long-term health and productivity of your farm. \nDate: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month starting in March – September\n \nTime: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM \n \nTOPP is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources. Farmer-to-farmer mentorship\, workshops\, webinars\, field days\, technical assistance\, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production\, the certification process\, market opportunities\, and more. Read more and sign up to be a mentor or transitioning farmer mentee at organictransition.org
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/soil-health-in-organic-systems-monthly-calls-7/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Beginning Farmers,NOFA/Mass Community Call,NOFA/Mass Event,Online,Soil Health,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T140000
DTSTAMP:20260630T143336Z
CREATED:20260325T162343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T143336Z
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SUMMARY:Growing Specialty Crops & Natural Dyes: Organic Diversification & Soil Decisions
DESCRIPTION:If you’re curious about growing more than just vegetables\, or want to explore how diverse crops can enhance both production and soil health\, this field day is for you. We’ll focus on natural dye plants—annual and perennial species that often also serve as cut flowers—alongside garlic\, rhubarb\, and seeds\, showing how multiple enterprises can fit into a practical organic farm system. This is a great opportunity for farmers\, homesteaders\, and growers interested in soil-building practices\, adaptive farm management\, and how to integrate it all into an Organic Systems Plan (OSP). \nDuring this on-farm field day at Hilltop Farm & Fiber Arts\, we’ll explore how the farm’s management systems have evolved over time and how those changes shape day-to-day soil and crop decisions whilst referencing a soil test. Hilltop Farm once integrated livestock but now sources composted manure off-farm\, offering a practical example of adapting nutrient management while maintaining fertility and organic certification. We’ll also discuss how scale\, labor\, and cost considerations influence decisions about which practices to keep\, modify\, or replace. \nThrough a farm tour and discussion\, participants will: \n\nVisit the certified organic processing areas used for dried plant material and seed handling\nSee how the farm’s OSP guides everyday soil health and crop management decisions\nExplore production strategies for natural dye plants alongside garlic\, rhubarb\, and seeds in niche organic markets\nEnjoy a locally sourced lunch\nObserve low-till bed preparation with a rototiller\, cover-cropped beds\, and techniques for maintaining soil structure\nLearn how soil test results can be interpreted and applied to real-world fertility management\n\n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nAbout: \nHilltop Farm & Fiber Arts is a small but diverse\, certified organic farm growing natural dye plants\, flowers\, garlic\, rhubarb\, and seeds. We’re all about building healthy soil through organic methods and exploring unique markets beyond veggies—like natural dyes\, flower-based products\, and specialty crops. \nLisa has over 35 years of experience growing vegetables and spent more than 20 years raising sheep for both fiber and lamb. A fiber artist and natural dyer\, she now focuses on dye plants\, flowers\, garlic\, and rhubarb at Hilltop Farm & Fiber Arts. Lisa teaches natural dyeing workshops and enjoys helping others explore the creative and economic potential of plant-based color in small-scale farming. Her work is grounded in organic practices and informed by training in Biodynamics. \n  \nAccessibility: \nThe farm is not wheelchair accessible and has sloped\, rough ground. Location is not accessible by public transportation\, but carpooling is encouraged. The dedicated rideshare site for this event is available here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 30 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space!  \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nThe rain date for this event is scheduled for August 11. For information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nContact Hannah at hannah@nofamass.dreamhosters.com \n 
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/growing-specialty-crops-natural-dyes-organic-diversification-soil-decision/
LOCATION:Hilltop Farm and Fiber Arts\, 1 Partridge Rd.\, Lanesborough\, 01237\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260729T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260729T193000
DTSTAMP:20260622T222219Z
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SUMMARY:Microplastics in Agriculture
DESCRIPTION:Microplastics are an increasing concern in agriculture\, with potential implications for soil health and food systems\, and both ecosystem and human health. This webinar is designed for farmers who want to better understand microplastics in agricultural soils\, as well as anyone concerned about the future of our food system and the health of the environment. Much of the research on this topic remains locked behind science journal paywalls or is communicated through highly technical language. The goal of this webinar is to make current research more accessible\, to raise awareness of this emerging issue\, and to help growers and community members leave with a clearer understanding of where microplastics come from\, how they affect agricultural systems\, and what actions can help address the problem.  \nRegister Online on Zoom\nIn this webinar\, we will: \n\nLearn about common pathways through which microplastics enter agricultural systems\nCover the impacts of microplastic contamination \nExplore strategies for reducing\, mitigating\, or preventing contamination\nDiscuss priorities for research\, policy\, and practical action to address microplastic pollution over the long term\n\n  \nAbout the Instructors: \nDavid Liu is a rising senior at Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter\, NH. He has published research related to microplastics in agriculture and presented at the 2026 NOFA/Mass Winter Conference.  \nAbout the Project: \nThis webinar is part of David’s goal of educating as many people as possible about the risks and threats of contaminants in agriculture. This session is an attempt to connect the microplastics research David has done with the NOFA/Mass community. He will also be developing a fact sheet/tool kit for widespread access that covers all the different contaminants to agriculture.  \nAccessibility: \nThe webinar will be held on Zoom. Captions available. Please reach out to events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com with any questions. \n  \nRegister Online on Zoom\n  \nQuestions? \nIf you have questions about attending\, contact events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com. Questions regarding the content of the webinar can be directed to soilhealth@nofamass.dreamhosters.com. \n  \nSponsors
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/microplastics-in-agriculture/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,Online,TOPP,Webinars
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260722T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260722T140000
DTSTAMP:20260610T172521Z
CREATED:20260610T172302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T172521Z
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SUMMARY:Streamlining Soil Health on the Organic Farm
DESCRIPTION:Farmers are constantly juggling recordkeeping\, compliance requirements\, crop planning decisions\, and soil health management\, often across multiple spreadsheets\, notebooks\, and disconnected systems. Whether you’re certified organic\, transitioning toward certification\, or simply looking for better ways to organize your farm data\, this workshop at Farming is Life will introduce their new platform\, FAHM (Farm App Hub and Manager)\, designed to simplify farm management and strengthen decision-making. Together\, we’ll explore how FAHM is already being used on working farms to streamline compliance\, automate recordkeeping\, manage soil health data\, and support long-term planning. Participants will also get a look at tools emerging from the farmers at Farming Is Life around soil monitoring\, greenhouse automation\, and grower distribution networks\, along with guidance on setting up profiles and accounts. \nRegister Online Now\nParticipants will: \n\nLearn how FAHM supports compliance\, organic certification records\, and day-to-day farm management\nSee examples of how farms are automating crop planning\, soil health tracking\, greenhouse systems\, and recordkeeping\nSee the interactions with soil testing\, and that data can be stored\, interpreted\, and used to guide management decisions over time\nUnderstand how this tool interacts with the Organic Product Database to better understand approved & prohibited materials\nHear about how this tool is connecting growers\, distributors\, and farm networks\nHave the opportunity to win a complimentary subscription including onboarding assistance including setting up accounts\, profiles\, and workflow systems. The farm(s) selected for this will be announced in 2026.\n\n  \nAbout: \nFarming is Life is a family farm in North Central Massachusetts that does not use chemicals and plastics to aid in the production of vegetables for our communities. We follow regenerative farming practices with the goal of minimizing off farm inputs. We do this in part by using trees from our forests to build mulch for compost\, using manure from cows that are fed chemical free hay from our farm to add nutrients and harnessing biology to create the balance needed for healthy soil\, happy beneficial bugs and bountiful harvests. This is all done with a holistic approach to the farm as a self-contained ecosystem that aims to work with nature not against it.  \n  \nAbout the Instructors: \nRichy is the founder of FAHM (fahmapp.com)\, a multi-tenant SaaS platform built to help farms run every side of their operation and automate essential functions\, all in one place. The platform is currently in beta testing\, and he puts the platform through its paces on his own family farm\, Farming is Life Farm\, where it handles the POS\, inventory\, CSA programs\, consignment\, payments\, and IoT integrations. Before farming and software\, Richy built a career as a Grammy-winning music producer. He works at the intersection of agriculture\, software\, and AI\, with a particular interest in giving small farms the kind of tools that have historically only been available to enterprise operations. \nRubén Parrilla (he/him) is the Soil Technical Coordinator for NOFA/Mass and trained in microscopic soil microbial identification through the Soil Food Web School. He is a Certified Lab Tech and studied Environmental Design at the University of Puerto Rico. Rubén has 15 years’ experience working at different capacities in the environmental laboratory industry. He has been performing soil carbon proxy testing\, soil health assessments\, soil chemical analysis\, and soil microbiological evaluations for NOFA/Mass over the past year and has extensive experience farming and working with farmers\, including beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers. Rubén performs soil health-related outreach and education events for NOFA/Mass by leading monthly farmer learning calls\, providing hands-on workshops and instruction at soil health education events\, and networking with farmers and individuals in the agricultural industry. He is a fluent and native Spanish speaker and fully English/Spanish bilingual. \n  \nMore Information: \nPortions of our farm tour will cover uneven terrain.  We want to make sure your accessibility needs are met during the event. Please share with us your needs regarding (but not limited to): physical accessibility\, allergies\, noise\, scent\, gender\, intellectual accessibility\, and any instructions or tips to help you fully participate.  \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 20 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space!  \nRegister Online Now\nQuestions? \nContact Hannah at events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com \n  \nSponsors
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/streamlining-soil-health-on-the-organic-farm/
LOCATION:Farming is Life\, 683 River St.\, Winchendon\, 01475\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260716T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260716T180000
DTSTAMP:20260708T171958Z
CREATED:20260527T221606Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260708T171958Z
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SUMMARY:Building Resilient Soils: Planning & Resources for Extreme Weather Events
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a workshop designed for farmers\, land stewards\, and growers navigating increasingly unpredictable growing conditions and seeking practical\, field-tested ways to build soil health and farm resilience. Hosted at Stony Hill Farm with farmer Alice Colman\, participants will learn directly how soil health planning and management reduces production risks and increases resiliency in the face of extreme weather events. The event includes hands-on soil health demonstrations\, a guided farm tour\, and an opportunity to connect with technical service providers from NOFA/Mass\, CISA\, the American Farmland Trust and the NRCS about available funding opportunities\, technical assistance\, and support for developing soil management plans. \nParticipants will: \n\nObserve a live\, in-field soil health assessment & learn how to evaluate their soils\nExplore funded and implemented practices including reduced tillage\, cover cropping\, mulching\, intercropping\, hedgerows\, and soil carbon amendment\nUnderstand how these practices have improved soil structure\, reduced bare soil\, and increased resilience at Stony Hill Farm\nLearn the step-by-step process for developing a soil health management plan that is based on NRCS planning steps\nConnect with technical assistance providers & funding opportunities\, including grants\, soil testing services\, and organic transition support over a local meal & drinks\n\nRegister Online Now\nAgenda: \n2:00 pm – Welcome & introductions \n2:15 pm – In-field soil health assessment demonstration \n3:00 pm – Farm tour & soil health practices in action \n4:15 pm – Soil management planning process overview \n5:00 pm – Resource fair & networking hour and dinner \n6:00 pm – Wrap-up & closing \n  \nAbout: \nStony Hill Farm is a certified organic\, small-scale diversified farm on 35 acres of fields and forest (currently ~1 acre in cultivation) in Wilbraham\, MA\, founded in 2015 by Alice Colman and Brian Cunningham. They grow a wide variety of vegetables and cut flowers sold through their farm stand and CSA. Their ecosystem-based approach emphasizes diversity as the foundation of resilience. Soil health practices include compost\, cover crops\, and organic fertilizers\, alongside crop rotations\, row covers\, and beneficial insects to support ecological balance and pest management. These practices are grounded in their on-farm approach to building resilient systems and have been strengthened through technical assistance programs such as American Farmland Trust (AFT)\, Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) and NOFA/Mass\, which have helped them refine and deepen their soil health and long-term land management strategies. \n  \nAbout the Instructors: \nCaro Roszell works with American Farmland Trust to support farmer networks\, provide technical assistance\, and advance practical approaches to soil health and climate resilience. With 15 years of experience in environmental nonprofit work and a decade in organic farming\, she specializes in farmer education\, soil health programming\, and farmer-to-farmer learning. Before joining AFT\, Caro served as Education Director and Soil Health Projects Manager for NOFA/Mass and currently serves on the Massachusetts Food Policy Council representing the Healthy Soils seat.  \nJeremy Barker-Plotkin joined American Farmland Trust with more than 25 years of experience in organic and regenerative farming\, conservation planning\, and farm business development. As co-owner and operator of Simple Gifts Farm\, a 50-acre integrated vegetable and livestock farm\, he has firsthand experience managing diversified production systems\, infrastructure development\, and direct markets. His work focuses on soil health\, organic no-till production\, integrated pest management\, irrigation and water conservation\, and farm business planning. Through AFT\, Jeremy supports farmers with soil health planning\, conservation implementation\, organic transition\, and access to technical assistance and funding opportunities.  \nRandy Violette is in his fourth season working at Stony Hill Farm where he has been supporting implementation of practices that improve soil health and overall farm resilience. Randy also works for NOFA/Mass as a TOPP Field Engagement and Technical Learning Coordinator. In this role\, he develops programming and educational content for farmers and gardeners interested in using organic farming practices.  \n  \nAccessibility: \nA porta potty is available on site. There is limited seating available at picnic tables. Farm roads are uneven but easily passable by car. Most of the field areas visited during the farm tour can be accessed by personal vehicle\, if desired. \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 25 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space!  \nRegister Online Now\n 
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/building-resilient-soils-planning-resources-for-extreme-weather-events/
LOCATION:Stony Hill Farm\, 899 Stony Hill Rd.\, Wilbraham\, MA\, 01095\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260715T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260715T193000
DTSTAMP:20260605T172907Z
CREATED:20260331T000413Z
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SUMMARY:Soil Health in Organic Systems Monthly Calls: Managing Summer Stress: Pests\, Pressure & Plant Resilience
DESCRIPTION:As crops hit peak summer growth\, they also face increasing pest and disease pressure and environmental stress. In this one-hour call\, we’ll discuss practical approaches to managing both biotic (e.g. pests and pathogens) and abiotic (e.g. extreme weather) stress through resilient growing systems\, integrated pest management (IPM)\, and biological approaches to crop health. We’ll also explore how observation\, timing\, and ecosystem balance can reduce pressure while supporting productive\, healthy plants. \nGuest speaker: Dr. Jaime Piñero is an Extension Professor of Fruit Entomology and Integrated Pest Management and Program Coordinator for the Sustainable Food & Farming Program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His research focuses on sustainable pest management\, insect ecology\, and developing practical IPM strategies that help growers reduce pesticide use while maintaining healthy\, productive crops. Through his research\, teaching\, and Extension work\, Jaime works closely with farmers across New England to advance biologically based approaches to pest management and resilient agricultural systems. \nRegister in advance for this meeting: \nRegister Online on Zoom\nAfter registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \n\nJoin NOFA/Mass for our monthly soil health calls\, where we explore the on-farm processes and practices that shape resilient\, thriving soils. Our facilitators will guide participants through practical strategies that influence soil integrity in organic systems. Each session offers space to ask questions\, discuss specific methodologies\, and learn directly from peers about what’s working on their farms. \nTopics range from organic amendments\, cover cropping systems\, reduced tillage and compaction mitigation strategies\, nutrient cycling\, soil biology and microbial life\, organic systems plans\, and other stewardship practices designed to strengthen the long-term health and productivity of your farm. \nDate: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month starting in March – September\n \nTime: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM \n\n  \n \nTOPP is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources. Farmer-to-farmer mentorship\, workshops\, webinars\, field days\, technical assistance\, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production\, the certification process\, market opportunities\, and more. Read more and sign up to be a mentor or transitioning farmer mentee at organictransition.org
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/soil-health-in-organic-systems-monthly-calls-6/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Beginning Farmers,NOFA/Mass Community Call,NOFA/Mass Event,Online,Soil Health,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T160000
DTSTAMP:20260518T151336Z
CREATED:20260406T170958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T151336Z
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SUMMARY:Biological Soil Health: Cultivating Microbial Diversity for Ecosystem Resilience
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this deep-dive into the soil biology that underpin resilient plants and healthy soils. We’ll journey into the dynamic world of soil microbes\, organic matter\, and nutrient cycling as we unravel the essential role of biological processes in soil health. \nThrough hands-on activities and insightful demonstrations\, participants will gain a deeper understanding of microbial communities and their impact on soil fertility and plant resilience. Attendees will also learn some techniques that the NOFA/Mass soil technical team employs to assess and enhance biological diversity in their agricultural systems. Whether you’re a farmer\, gardener\, or environmental enthusiast\, this workshop offers invaluable knowledge and practical skills to cultivate thriving soils and sustainable landscapes. \nThroughout the day\, you’ll learn: \n\nThe basics of the Soil Food Web\nTools for assessing soil biology and microbial diversity in your soil\nHow to inoculate soils with beneficial microbes\nThe role of soil biology in disease suppression\, nutrient cycling\, and decomposition\nThe basics of paper chromatography\nThe importance of root exudates and species diversity in supporting soil biology\nNatural farming as a way to support microbial communities\nHow to make a few simple amendments to increase biological activity in your soils\n\n\n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nRubén Parrilla\, Soil Technical Coordinator\, NOFA/Mass  \nRubén is a Certified Lab Tech with 15 years of experience working at different capacities in the environmental laboratory industry. He trained in microscopic soil microbial identification through the Soil Food Web School and studied Environmental Design at the University of Puerto Rico. He leads and performs all components of NOFA/Mass soil technical services and has extensive experience farming and working with growers\, including beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers. Rubén performs soil health-related outreach and education for NOFA/Mass through monthly farmer learning calls\, hands-on workshops and instructional events\, and networking with farmers and individuals in the agricultural industry. Finalmente\, Rubén es bilingüe y quiere saber de usted. \nRandy Violette\, Field Engagement & Technical Learning Coordinator\, NOFA/Mass \nRandy has been farming for seven years on small\, diversified vegetable and flower farms across the United States. He worked as a technical assistance provider on a USDA climate-smart grant\, collaborating with farmers to implement more climate-smart agricultural practices on their farms. His interests lie at the intersection of environmental and social sustainability–how do we take care of soil health and the whole farm environment  while also prioritizing the health of the farmer and farm business? Randy loves supporting educational farming content and talking to growers of all experience levels about their soil and crops. His latest experiments include making Korean Natural Farming inputs and developing a foliar fertility management program for small farms. \n  \nAbout the Project: \nThis event is sponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture and co-sponsored by NOFA/Mass.  \n  \nMore Information / Accessibility: \nThe series will take place at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner\, MA. While attending all three sessions provides the most complete learning experience\, participants are welcome to attend one\, two\, or all three workshops throughout the season. The workshop is being held on the first floor and is wheelchair accessible. Seats will be provided throughout the duration of the workshop. \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nEvent is rain or shine. For information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 24 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space!  \n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nEmail Hannah at hannah@nofamass.dreamhosters.com \n  \nPartners and Sponsors \n \n \n 
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/biological-soil-health-cultivating-microbial-diversity-for-ecosystem-resilience/
LOCATION:Mount Wachusett Community College\, 444 Green Street\, Gardner\, 01440\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,Soil Health,TOPP
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260618T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260618T190000
DTSTAMP:20260615T184538Z
CREATED:20260417T232059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260615T184538Z
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SUMMARY:Whole-Farm Stewardship: Buffers\, Perennials & Biodiversity - registration closed
DESCRIPTION:Stewarding your farm as an interconnected landscape is both deeply rewarding and undeniably complex. At Indian Line Farm\, this approach is taking shape through the integration of perennial plantings\, native species\, pollinator habitat\, and managing ecologically disruptive\, or invasive\, plants – all as essential elements of a resilient\, whole-farm ecosystem. Join us for an on-farm networking event and farm tour where farmers can connect\, share experiences\, and see firsthand how these practices are being implemented across the landscape. \nTogether\, we’ll explore how Indian Line Farm is transforming buffer areas into intentional\, productive spaces that support biodiversity while contributing to the farm’s overall viability. Along the way\, we’ll discuss the benefits of pollinator habitat\, and how whole-farm thinking can strengthen soil health\, improve water infiltration\, and support resilient organic management systems. Come ready to ask questions\, exchange ideas\, enjoy a local meal\, and learn alongside fellow farmers working toward more integrated\, ecologically grounded farms.\n\nEvent at capacity. Registration closed.\n \nAbout  \nIndian Line Farm is a 17 acre farm growing vegetables\, herbs\, flowers and fruits. They have been working with NOFA/Mass partner Evan Abramson at Landscape Interactions since 2019:  first to develop a large Pollinator Garden at French Park in Egremont and more recently at the farm.  As part of the Healthy Soils Action Plan\, they have implemented a pilot project using buffer areas to plant perennials specifically for attracting native bees as well as increase production capabilities for farm income.  \nAbout the Project: \nThis event is sponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture and co-sponsored by NOFA/Mass.  \n  \nAccessibility: \nAn ADA bathroom is available but the farm tour terrain will be very uneven.  We do permit driving down to fields to meet accessibility needs. \n  \nMore Information: \nPortions of our farm tour will cover uneven terrain.  We want to make sure your accessibility needs are met during the event. Please share with us your needs regarding (but not limited to): physical accessibility\, allergies\, noise\, scent\, gender\, intellectual accessibility\, and any instructions or tips to help you fully participate.  \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 20 people. Event at capacity. Registration closed. \n  \nQuestions? \nContact Hannah at events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com \n  \nPartners and Sponsors
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/whole-farm-stewardship-buffers-perennials-biodiversity/
LOCATION:Indian Line Farm\, 57 Jug End Road\, South Egremont\, 01258\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260617T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260617T193000
DTSTAMP:20260520T163948Z
CREATED:20260331T000109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T163948Z
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SUMMARY:Soil Health in Organic Systems Monthly Calls: Maximizing Photosynthesis & Summer Growth
DESCRIPTION:By June\, plants are shifting into rapid growth and photosynthesis is in full swing. In this one-hour call\, we’ll explore how to support peak plant energy and nutrient cycling through methods like foliar sprays\, biologically active soils and management practices that strengthen the soil carbon pathway. We’ll discuss topics like the relationship between photosynthesis and soil biology\, and practical strategies for keeping crops thriving through the early summer season. \nRegister in advance for this meeting: \nRegister Online on Zoom\nAfter registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \n—— \nJoin NOFA/Mass for our monthly soil health calls\, where we explore the on-farm processes and practices that shape resilient\, thriving soils. Our facilitators will guide participants through practical strategies that influence soil integrity in organic systems. Each session offers space to ask questions\, discuss specific methodologies\, and learn directly from peers about what’s working on their farms. \nTopics range from organic amendments\, cover cropping systems\, reduced tillage and compaction mitigation strategies\, nutrient cycling\, soil biology and microbial life\, organic systems plans\, and other stewardship practices designed to strengthen the long-term health and productivity of your farm. \nDate: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month starting in March – September\n \nTime: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM \n  \n  \n \nTOPP is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources. Farmer-to-farmer mentorship\, workshops\, webinars\, field days\, technical assistance\, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production\, the certification process\, market opportunities\, and more. Read more and sign up to be a mentor or transitioning farmer mentee at organictransition.org
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/soil-health-in-organic-systems-monthly-calls-5/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Beginning Farmers,NOFA/Mass Community Call,NOFA/Mass Event,Online,Soil Health,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260611T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260611T160000
DTSTAMP:20260603T175731Z
CREATED:20260422T165529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T175731Z
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SUMMARY:Scale & Strategy: Building a Viable\, Healthy Farm
DESCRIPTION:Managing a farm at the right scale is essential to finding your place within the broader network of Massachusetts growers. If you’re considering expanding your operation— or questioning whether scaling up is the right move— join us for a day-long workshop grounded in practical experience\, reflection\, and peer learning. \nHosted at Upswing Farm\, this workshop will explore the real-world decisions that shape a farm’s growth over time. We’ll learn from Upswing’s journey on the land: how they’ve approached soil stewardship in a certified-organic system\, their approach to infrastructure and equipment\, and strategic choices they’ve made to support long-term viability. Through a mix of tours\, discussions and on-farm demonstrations\, participants will engage with both the opportunities and trade-offs that come with operating at different scales. \nWe’ll dig into both the day-to-day realities and the bigger-picture considerations of scaling a certified organic farm\, from crew management and workflow logistics\, to financial planning and risk\, all within the framework of organic certification requirements. \nRegister Online Now\nThroughout the day\, we’ll: \n\nExplore how to determine the “right” farm scale for individualized goals within a certified organic system\nDiscuss labor structures\, crew management\, and daily operational flow\nReview equipment decisions\, including tools for cover cropping and compost production\nLearn about Upswing Farm’s approach to producing certified-organic compost\, including a close-up look through a microscope\nExamine financial decision-making\, including borrowing\, risk tolerance\, and long-term planning\nDiscuss funding opportunities\, such as grants and programs through NRCS and AMA\nReflect on how business decisions and ecological stewardship intersect in certified-organic production\n\nBy the end of the day\, you’ll come away with a clearer understanding of what scaling means for your own operation\, along with practical insights from a certified organic farm navigating those decisions in real time. We’ll also share a locally sourced lunch and create space for informal conversation and connection. \nRegister Online Now\nAbout: \nUpswing Farm stewards 131 acres of APR farm land purchased after leasing land for 5 seasons. The farm grows on 20 acres\, utilizing 6 high tunnels for year-round production. CSA is the farm’s primary market outlet\, with 500+ members in the summer and 400 members in the winter. The farm also attends one farmers’ market\, and offers farm stand sales during CSA pick up hours. Demand is high\, with CSA shares selling out earlier each year without any marketing. The farmers have been scaling every year since the farm began\, and are considering staying at this scale\, even though demand is high\, or expanding through major infrastructure and systems changes in order to serve a larger community. \nAbout the Instructors: \nBrittany Overshiner has been managing CSA vegetable farms organically for 16 seasons\, and has extensive experience starting farms on a budget. Kevin Overshiner\, her husband and business partner\, has similar experience.  \nAccessibility: \nThere are bathrooms on site that can be made wheelchair accessible. The tour portion of the farm will include walking\, but farm trucks can be used\, or folks can use personal vehicles if they are willing to drive them on farm roads to participate in the tour if there are mobility concerns. \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nEvent is rain or shine. For information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 25 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space! \n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nContact Hannah at events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com \n  \nPartners and Sponsors
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/scale-strategy-building-a-viable-healthy-farm/
LOCATION:Upswing Farm\, 65 Brookline St.\, Pepperell\, 01463\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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GEO:42.6831061;-71.5911846
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Upswing Farm 65 Brookline St. Pepperell 01463 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=65 Brookline St.:geo:-71.5911846,42.6831061
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260610T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260621T200000
DTSTAMP:20260610T180928Z
CREATED:20260610T180927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T180928Z
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SUMMARY:Vote NOFA/Mass for River Valley Co-op's July Change for Change
DESCRIPTION:If you’re a River Valley Co-op member-owner\, we’d love your vote in the Change for Change program—where shoppers round up their purchases to support local non-profits. \n  \n🗳️ Voting for July’s non-profit is open! Vote through June 21 at 8:00pm. \n\nIt only takes a minute: \n  \n✅ Visit https://rivervalley.coop/community/co-op-change-for-change-program \n      → Use the scrolling form in the center of the page to submit your vote! \n✅ Have your co-op member-owner number ready \n✅ Vote for NOFA/Mass \n  \nEvery vote could help strengthen local farms\, support organic agriculture\, and build a more resilient food system across Massachusetts. \n  \nThank you for showing up for local food and farming!
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/vote-nofa-mass-for-river-valley-co-ops-july-change-for-change/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260529T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260529T160000
DTSTAMP:20260416T151003Z
CREATED:20260406T162622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T151003Z
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SUMMARY:Physical Soil Health: Our Critical Soil Infrastructure
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this full-day workshop about the physical component of soil health where we’ll explore the essential principles that shape soil structure and vitality. This intensive will mix classroom-based learning with hands-on demonstrations and activities assessing soil structure. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of soil physical properties\, including texture\, structure\, porosity\, and compaction.  \nEquipped with tools such as penetrometers\, shovels\, and infiltration rings\, attendees will learn how to assess and evaluate these critical aspects of soil health directly on the farm. We will also explore the synergies between the physical component of soil health and the chemical and biological components. Whether you’re a seasoned agricultural professional or a curious novice\, this workshop offers valuable insights and practical skills to enhance your understanding of soil and optimize farm management practices. \nThroughout the day\, you’ll learn: \n\nSoil compaction mitigation and remediation strategies\nThe importance of soil physical properties for water and gas management\nThe inherent and dynamic properties of soils\nHow to use tools for evaluating soil structure\nThe impact of different forms of soil disturbance on soil physical properties\nThe role of organic matter in soil structure\nHow to use cover crops to improve soil structure\n\n\nRegister Online Now \n  \nRubén Parrilla\, Soil Technical Coordinator\, NOFA/Mass  \nRubén is a Certified Lab Tech with 15 years of experience working at different capacities in the environmental laboratory industry. He trained in microscopic soil microbial identification through the Soil Food Web School and studied Environmental Design at the University of Puerto Rico. He leads and performs all components of NOFA/Mass soil technical services and has extensive experience farming and working with growers\, including beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers. Rubén performs soil health-related outreach and education for NOFA/Mass through monthly farmer learning calls\, hands-on workshops and instructional events\, and networking with farmers and individuals in the agricultural industry. Finalmente\, Rubén es bilingüe y quiere saber de usted. \nRandy Violette\, Field Engagement & Technical Learning Coordinator\, NOFA/Mass \nRandy has been farming for seven years on small\, diversified vegetable and flower farms across the United States. He worked as a technical assistance provider on a USDA climate-smart grant\, collaborating with farmers to implement more climate-smart agricultural practices on their farms. His interests lie at the intersection of environmental and social sustainability–how do we take care of soil health and the whole farm environment  while also prioritizing the health of the farmer and farm business? Randy loves supporting educational farming content and talking to growers of all experience levels about their soil and crops. His latest experiments include making Korean Natural Farming inputs and developing a foliar fertility management program for small farms. \n  \nAbout the Project: \nThis event is sponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture and co-sponsored by NOFA/Mass.  \n  \nMore Information / Accessibility: \nThe series will take place at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner\, MA. While attending all three sessions provides the most complete learning experience\, participants are welcome to attend one\, two\, or all three workshops throughout the season. The workshop is being held on the first floor and is wheelchair accessible. Seats will be provided throughout the duration of the workshop. \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nEvent is rain or shine. For information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 24 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space!  \n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nEmail Hannah at hannah@nofamass.dreamhosters.com \n  \nPartners and Sponsors \n \n \n 
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/physical-soil-health-our-critical-soil-infrastructure/
LOCATION:Mount Wachusett Community College\, 444 Green Street\, Gardner\, 01440\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,Soil Health,TOPP
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T190000
DTSTAMP:20260416T151017Z
CREATED:20260407T162841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T151017Z
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SUMMARY:Working Towards Better Soil: Farmer Exchange & Networking Event
DESCRIPTION:Join Just Roots and NOFA/Mass for a farmer-to-farmer field walk exploring how soil health practices can take shape on a small\, diversified production farm. We’re coming together to share practical knowledge and experience. This is an opportunity to share real-world experience—what’s working\, what isn’t\, and what we’re all still figuring out. \nTogether\, we’ll walk the farm and look closely at a few of our current experiments & systems\, including: \n\nNo-till beds within a mixed till/no-till production system\nNative pollinator plantings as part of a soil-building strategy\nPerennial hedgerow strips (apple\, dogwood\, beach plum)integrated into annual fields \nTrial-and-error lessons from running a high-value small farm while building soil\n\nThis is a casual\, farmer-led exchange. Come with questions\, ideas\, and your own experiences to share.  After the tour\, we’ll gather for a light dinner & a conversation about how this work connects to the Healthy Soils Action Plan. \nRegister Online Now\nAbout \nJust Roots creates equitable access to healthy local food in western Massachusetts and works toward just\, vibrant\, and sustainable farm and food systems. Founded in 2008\, we operate the 61-acre Greenfield Community Farm on permanently protected land owned by the City of Greenfield. The farm includes diversified vegetable production\, a historic barn that serves as a regional food aggregation and distribution hub\, community garden space\, and land leased to small scale farm businesses. \nOver fifteen years\, Just Roots has grown from a grassroots farm into an organization working at the intersection of agriculture\, public health\, and community development. We grow food\, aggregate from regional farms\, and distribute to households across Franklin County and statewide. Our infrastructure supports production\, healthcare referrals\, enrollment systems\, delivery logistics\, and outcome tracking. Income\, transportation\, or health challenges should not prevent families from accessing fresh\, locally grown food. \n  \nAbout the Instructors: \nMeryl Latronica:  \nMeryl joined Just Roots in 2017 to become the Director of Farm Operations and in 2024 became one of the Co-Executive Directors.  She helped to build the CSA program\, increasing its reach from 150 members to over 400 in her first four seasons; increased production from by 50%\, oversaw multiple infrastructure improvements including building three new high tunnels\, one new greenhouse and managed a full overhaul of an aging barn which is the centerpiece of all production and distribution at Just Roots\, a $500\,000 project over three years.  Meryl has been a key team member in building the Just Roots Local Food Hub\, which supports their Food Is Medicine work\, with a focus on ensuring top quality procurement from over twenty-five local farms. Meryl leads with a deep commitment to community voice\, ensuring that programs are responsive to the needs of the people they serve.  \n  \nLincoln Fishman:  \nLincoln Fishman is the founder and director of Momentum Ag\, a Massachusetts-based organization that coordinates farmer-led research on sustainable\, climate-smart agricultural techniques\, particularly clover living mulches. Formerly\, Lincoln was the owner/operator of Sawyer Farm in Worthington\, MA.  \nAbout the Project: \nThis event is sponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture and co-sponsored by NOFA/Mass. This workshop is also funded with generous support from the Massachusetts Healthy Soils Initiative (EEA).   \nAccessibility: \nThe event will include portable toilet facilities and on-site seating. Please note that the program will include a walking tour of Just Roots\, which takes place on uneven and potentially wet ground; participants should plan accordingly. \nAt this time\, additional accessibility services such as wheelchair-accessible pathways\, public transportation options\, and language interpretation are not formally provided. If you have specific accessibility needs\, please reach out in advance so we can do our best to accommodate you. \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nThe event is rain or shine. For information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nCapacity: \nCapacity for this event is limited to 25 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space! \n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nContact Hannah at hannah@nofamass.dreamhosters.com with any questions \nPartners and Sponsors
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/working-towards-better-soil-farmer-exchange-networking-event/
LOCATION:Just Roots Community Farm\, 34 Glenbrook Dr\, Greenfield\, MA\, 01301\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T193000
DTSTAMP:20260409T200407Z
CREATED:20260330T235720Z
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SUMMARY:Soil Health in Organic Systems Monthly Calls - Getting Soils To Hum Early: Transplanting & Spring Conditions
DESCRIPTION:May in the Northeast brings a mix of warming days and sometimes stubbornly cool\, wet soils. In this one-hour call\, we’ll focus on transplanting into variable spring conditions\, priming soils with biology\, and practical bed prep strategies. We’ll also cover spring amendments\, inoculations & preps\, with an eye toward how temperature\, moisture & pH influence what actually responds early in the season. Bring your experience and discussion points\, and have your questions ready! \nRegister Online on Zoom\n\nJoin NOFA/Mass for our monthly soil health calls\, where we explore the on-farm processes and practices that shape resilient\, thriving soils. Our facilitators will guide participants through practical strategies that influence soil integrity in organic systems. Each session offers space to ask questions\, discuss specific methodologies\, and learn directly from peers about what’s working on their farms.  \nTopics range from organic amendments\, cover cropping systems\, reduced tillage and compaction mitigation strategies\, nutrient cycling\, soil biology and microbial life\, organic systems plans\, and other stewardship practices designed to strengthen the long-term health and productivity of your farm. \nDate: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month starting in March – September\n \nTime: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM \n  \nRegister in advance for this meeting: \nRegister Online on Zoom\nAfter registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \n \nTOPP is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources. Farmer-to-farmer mentorship\, workshops\, webinars\, field days\, technical assistance\, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production\, the certification process\, market opportunities\, and more. Read more and sign up to be a mentor or transitioning farmer mentee at organictransition.org
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/soil-health-in-organic-systems-monthly-calls-4/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Beginning Farmers,NOFA/Mass Community Call,NOFA/Mass Event,Online,Soil Health,TOPP
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T160000
DTSTAMP:20260513T141742Z
CREATED:20260313T230953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T141742Z
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SUMMARY:Complete Approaches to Fertility: Soil to Foliar
DESCRIPTION:Your farm’s fertility plan doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right tools and approach\, it can be grounded\, methodical\, informed and even fun. \nIn this full-day\, hands-on workshop\, we’ll explore practical ways to assess soil health and develop effective fertility strategies\, with a focus on agroforestry systems. The morning will center on building a clear\, functional understanding of soil health through biological\, physical\, and chemical lenses. Participants will practice simple\, field-based assessments to better understand compaction\, soil structure\, and nutrient dynamics\, and discuss amendment and management strategies that support soil function over time\, especially in degraded or transitioning landscapes. \nAfter lunch\, we’ll shift our focus to foliar sprays: liquid nutrient and biological applications applied directly to plant leaves. Foliar sprays can be a powerful tool on any farm\, and particularly in agroforestry systems\, where perennial crops\, young trees\, and compromised soils often benefit from targeted\, responsive nutrition. Used thoughtfully\, they can help support plant health\, improve nutrient uptake\, and reduce stress while longer-term soil improvements take hold. Participants will learn how to choose appropriate foliar strategies\, mix and apply sprays\, and evaluate their effectiveness in the field. \nRegister Online Now\nThroughout the day\, we’ll: \n\nAssess key soil health indicators such as compaction and nutrient needs\nUnderstand Big River Chestnuts’ approach to soil remediation and supporting young tree establishment\nEnjoy a delicious\, locally sourced lunch\nCompare different foliar spray methodologies and determine which are appropriate for your operation\nMix and apply a foliar spray in a hands-on demonstration\nUse application equipment and a refractometer to measure results in the field\n\nAbout Big River Chestnuts \nBig River Chestnuts (BRC)\, founded in 2018\, is a diversified agroforestry business operating on three properties totaling 81.5 acres in Sunderland\, South Deerfield\, and Easthampton\, MA. We grow chestnuts\, other tree crops\, and small fruits. Our goal is to aggregate crops from partner farms across Western New England at our developing tree crop processing hub in Sunderland.  \nThe farm integrates agroforestry through several practices: by grazing sheep and chickens under the chestnut trees (silvopasture)\, alley cropping with small fruits to optimize ecological benefits and windbreaks and riparian buffers. These regenerative practices enhance soil health\, increase climate resilience\, and support biodiversity\, while helping the farm meet financial goals. In addition the farm utilizes biological soil management such as use of microbial inoculants\, foliar sprays\, cover crops\, and diverse perennial understory mixes.  \nThey recently expanded their operation\, planting several thousand new chestnut trees as part of their growing agroforestry system. The newly acquired land is heavily degraded\, with compacted soils in need of thoughtful\, holistic fertility strategies. This workshop is a working example for how to restore soil health and support long-term tree success. \nAbout the Instructors: \nJono Neiger\, Big River Chestnuts; Regenerative Design Group \nJono Neiger is an agroforestry planner at Regenerative Design Group Cooperative\, a small worker-owned design and planning firm in western Massachusetts. Jono has 30+ years of professional experience in agroforestry\, permaculture\, ecological land and site planning\, conservation\, and restoration; working with clients widely around the US. He teaches agroforestry at UMass Amherst and has held positions as faculty at the Conway School of Landscape Planning and Design\, Restoration Specialist with the Nature Conservancy in California\, Land Steward at Lost Valley Educational Center\, and PDC instructor through Sirius Ecovillage. He authored The Permaculture Promise and operates Big River Chestnuts\, a chestnut agroforestry farm in Sunderland\, Massachusetts. \n  \nRubén Parrilla\, Soil Technical Coordinator\, NOFA/Mass  \nRubén is a Certified Lab Tech with 15 years of experience working at different capacities in the environmental laboratory industry. He trained in microscopic soil microbial identification through the Soil Food Web School and studied Environmental Design at the University of Puerto Rico. He leads and performs all components of NOFA/Mass soil technical services and has extensive experience farming and working with growers\, including beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers. Rubén performs soil health-related outreach and education for NOFA/Mass through monthly farmer learning calls\, hands-on workshops and instructional events\, and networking with farmers and individuals in the agricultural industry. Finalmente\, Rubén es bilingüe y quiere saber de usted. \n  \nInformation & Accessibility: \nPortions of our farm tour will cover uneven and bumpy terrain. There is an on-site composting toilet.  \nWe will do our best to plan for your accessibility during the event. Please share with us your needs regarding (but not limited to): physical accessibility\, allergies\, noise\, scent\, gender\, intellectual accessibility\, and any instructions or tips to help you fully participate.  \n  \nRefund/Inclement Weather Policy: \nFor information on our refund and inclement weather policy\, click here.  \n  \nRegister Online Now\n  \nQuestions? \nContact Hannah at hannah@nofamass.dreamhosters.com
URL:https://nofamass.dreamhosters.com/event/complete-approaches-to-fertility-soil-to-foliar/
LOCATION:Big River Chestnuts new field in South Deerfield\, Corner of Plain and Setright Road\, South Deerfield\, United States
CATEGORIES:NOFA/Mass Event,TOPP
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