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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260617T183000
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DTSTAMP: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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ORGANIZER;CN="NOFA/Mass Ed Events":MAILTO:events@nofamass.dreamhosters.com
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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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