nofa-ny 2015 winter conference brochure
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Pre-registration closes January 16Pre-registration closes January 16thth
Receive a $10 discount if you register by December 12Receive a $10 discount if you register by December 12thth
Visit www.nofanyconference.org to view more information and to register onlineVisit www.nofanyconference.org to view more information and to register online
2 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
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W E L C O M EW E L C O M E
SOIL: Th e Root of the Movement In January 2015, NOFA-NY will hold its 33rd Annual Organic Farming and
Gardening Conference. Th e theme for the conference—“Soil: Th e Root of the
Movement”— honors the invaluable nature of healthy soil and highlights
how it is the key to organic agriculture. Everything we do in organic agricul-
ture ties into the soil.
We’re excited to off er a special series of soil intensive workshops and
a pre-conference fi eld day aimed at intermediate and advanced growers
thanks to the support of NYSDAM Specialty Crop Block Grant. To inspire
more thought and discussion, Wes Jackson, founder and President of the
Land Institute, will be our keynote speaker. Th e work of the Land Institute
is to address the issues of soil loss and degradation, ecosystem destruction,
and high energy use associated with agriculture.
Our 2015 NOFA-NY Farmers of the Year are Mary-Howell and Klaas
Martens. Mary-Howell and Klaas Martens farm 1,400 acres of organic corn,
soybeans, small grains (wheat, spelt, barley, oats, triticale, heritage grains),
dark red kidney beans, and edamame soybeans. Additionally, they own and
operate Lakeview Organic Grain, an organic feed and seed business serving
the needs of Northeast organic farmers.
Each year at our conference, we strive to inspire, as well as inform, and
to provide an unparalleled opportunity for networking and for recipro-
cal teaching and learning. We look forward to seeing you in Saratoga this
coming January!
Anne Rufl in Marne Coit
Executive Director Education Director
QUESTIONS? During this busy time of year for our team, we encourage you to contact the
individuals responsible for specifi c areas of inquiry.
General [email protected]
Sponsorship, Advertising, Trade Show & Exhibits
[email protected] Donation
Scholarships & Work-Study
[email protected] Questions
[email protected]’s Conference (for ages 6–12)
[email protected] (for ages 3–5)
3Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
W E L C O M EW E L C O M E
WELCOMETh e Northeast Organic Farming
Association of New York (NOFA-NY)
is a statewide organization lead-
ing a growing movement of farm-
ers, consumers, gardeners, and
businesses committed to promot-
ing local, organic food and farming.
To learn more about us, our mis-
sion, and to become a member, see
www.nofany.org.
REGISTRATION To register for the 2015 NOFA-NY Organic Farming and Gardening
Conference, go online to www.nofanyconference.org, or contact Stephanie
Backer-Bertsch, Registration Coordinator, at (585) 271-1979 ext. 509 or
Pre-registration closes January 16, 2015. To receive a $10 discount,
register by 11:59pm on December 12th. Your registration is complete when
NOFA-NY receives payment accompanying your registration information.
Adult Conference
Children’s Conference (Ages 6–12)
Childcare (Ages 3–5)
Full Conference $285 $130 $130
Friday Full Day* $140 $55 $55
Friday Morning* $85(full day only) (full day only)
Friday Afternoon* $75
Saturday $120 $55 $55
Sunday $85 $55 $55
Dinner Tickets $16/meal $16/mealNo fee for children
5 and under
*Friday sessions are either full-day or half-day intensive sessions. You must select a session to attend when registering for Friday events,
and some sessions have limited capacity.
PRICINGConference registration fees include breakfast and lunch for any day you
are registered, and entrance to workshops, the trade show, keynote address-
es, meetings and all other scheduled activities. Dinner tickets, lodging and
transportation are not included.
4 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
K E Y N O T E S & S P E C I A L M E E T I N G SK E Y N O T E S & S P E C I A L M E E T I N G S
WES JACKSON Wes Jackson, Presi-
dent of Th e Land Insti-
tute, was born in 1936
on a farm near Topeka,
Kansas. After attending
Kansas Wesleyan (B.A.
Biology, 1958), he stud-
ied botany (M.A. University of Kan-
sas, 1960) and genetics (Ph.D. North
Carolina State University, 1967). He
was a professor of biology at Kansas
Wesleyan and later established the
Environmental Studies department
at California State University, Sac-
ramento, where he became a tenured
full professor. He resigned that posi-
tion in 1976 and returned to Kansas
to found Th e Land Institute.
KLAAS & MARY-HOWELL MARTENSNOFA-NY Farmers of the Year
K laas and
Mary-Howell
Martens farm
1,400 acres of
organic corn,
s o y b e a n s ,
small grains
(wheat, spelt, barley, oats, tritica-
le, heritage grains), dark red kidney
beans, and edamame soybeans. Th ey
have been farming organically since
1993. Additionally, they own and op-
erate Lakeview Organic Grain, an
organic feed and seed business serv-
ing the needs of Northeast organic
farmers.
Keynote Speakers
NOFA-NY CERTIFIED ORGANIC, LLC OPEN ANNUAL MEETING
Grab some breakfast and join
our certifi cation staff and the Man-
agement Committee for an open
meeting to learn about certifi -
cation updates and National Or-
ganic Program changes. Th is is an
opportunity to ask your certifi cation
questions. Saturday 7:15am
NOFA-NY, INC ANNUAL MEETING
Th e annual meeting is your chance
to get the latest report on our or-
ganization’s work and to weigh in
on plans for the future. Help deter-
mine what issues NOFA-NY works
on in the coming years and vote on
2015 policy resolutions. Only mem-
bers may vote, so join NOFA-NY as a
member before the meeting! Saturday 11:00am
NEW YORK SMALL SCALE FOOD PROCESSORS ASSOCIATION MEETING Th e NYSSFPA was formed to represent and inform all small-scale food pro-
cessors. Th e organization’s workshops educate by mentoring, teaching mar-
keting, connecting farmers and processors for value-added production, and
guiding food-entrepreneurs in the use of current approved processing practices. Saturday 12:15pm
Annual Meetings
5Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
G E T T I N G I N V O L V E DG E T T I N G I N V O L V E D
SPONSORSHIP, TRADE SHOW & ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES
Our Winter Conference welcomes
more than 1,200 participants for the
annual three-day event. Sponsoring
our conference, participating in our
trade show, and advertising in the con-
ference program are great ways to reach organic farmers, gardeners, and
food advocates with your marketing message while helping to promote local,
organic food and farming. Contact Sondra Gjersoe for more information at
[email protected] or at (585) 271-1979 ext. 510.
Work Shift Opportunities
Th e success of our conference
depends upon the hard work
of many helping hands. If you
would like to contribute as a spe-
cial helper during the conference
and receive a $50 rebate on your
registration (plus a free t-shirt),
contact [email protected] by January 6th. Our
working participants will be ex-
pected to commit to attending an
orientation and to help out for as-
signed tasks during the confer-
ence. Positions will be fi lled on a
fi rst-come, fi rst-assigned basis.
Food & Ingredient DonationsEach conference meal is a tribute to the diversity and bounty of New York
State’s organic agriculture, with many of the ingredients donated by farms,
small-scale food processors and food hubs in our midst. Food donors can receive
a rebate for registration based on the wholesale value of their donation or have
the value treated as a tax-deductible donation. To contribute food, please con-
tact Bethany Wallis at [email protected] or (585) 271-1979 ext. 513. Download
a food donation form at www.nofanyconference.org.
SCHOLARSHIPSTo learn more about receiving a
scholarship or to fi ll out an applica-
tion, please visit www.nofany.org/events/2015scholarships or call our
offi ce at (585) 271-1979 ext. 511. As-
piring and new farmers with less than
10 years of farm ownership/manage-
ment experience, as well as mentor
farmers, are eligible for scholarships.
All applications must be received by
11:59pm on December 1, 2014 with
winners announced December 9,
2014. Applicants who do not receive
scholarships will still be eligible for our
Early Bird Discount. All scholarship re-
cipients are required to work for an as-
signed shift during the conference.
6 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
S P E C I A L A C T I V I T I E SS P E C I A L A C T I V I T I E S
THURSDAY WELCOME RECEPTIONIf you’re at the conference on Th ursday night, you may enjoy snacks and
live music to welcome you. Start your long weekend off in the right spirit!Thursday 7:00–10:00pm
BEGINNING FARMER MEET AND GREET
Time to party! Snacks, coff ee, tea and
a cash bar will fuel your dancing feet as
you enjoy an eclectic selection of music by
Mulberry Soul. Th e National Young Farm-
ers’ Coalition will share short fi lms about
the exciting organization and activism
spearheaded by beginning farmers across
the country. All conference attendees
are welcome to this party to celebrate
organic farming in New York State.Friday 8:30–10:30pm
CONTRA DANCE with Th e Russet Trio and Fern Marshall Bradley
Th e Russet Trio and caller
Fern Marshall Bradley will be
joining us once again in 2015.
Th e Russet Trio combines tra-
ditional Irish themes with a
modern energy. New to con-
tra dancing? No problem! Fern
Marshall Bradley is the perfect
caller to get you swingin’.Saturday 8:30pm
2015 House Band: MULBERRY SOULMulberry Soul formed in 2012 at the Folk Art Guild on East Hill Farm in
Middlesex, New York. Th eir music blends folk, bluegrass, and old-time fi d-
dle music with stunningly soulful original songs; the band members’ back-
ground in jazz, funk and rock add to an eclectic repertoire that you can hear
throughout the conference.
Thursday 7:00–10:00pm: Welcome Reception
Friday 6:15–7:15pm: Social Hour Entertainment
Trade Show
Friday 8:30–10:30pm: Beginning and Experienced
Farmer Meet and Greet
Saturday 5:45–6:45pm: Social Hour Entertainment, Trade Show
7Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
S P E C I A L A C T I V I T I E SS P E C I A L A C T I V I T I E S
DISCUSSION GROUPSWe’re pleased to add a new activity in 2015! Join in these networking and
information exchange sessions throughout the weekend. Each hour-long
conversation will be facilitated by NOFA-NY Board or Staff .
Topic/Networking Group Time
State of Organic Seed Listening Session Friday 6:15pmMentor Farmers Friday 6:15pmGrain Harvest Quality Friday 8:00pmFarmer and Farmworker Justice Discussion Saturday 5:45pmLGBTQ Farmers Saturday 5:45pmFull-Diet Farming Saturday 8:00pmReducing Tillage in Organic Vegetables Saturday 8:00pm
FILM SCREENINGSGrazers (2013)
An unlikely group of farmers
struggle to form a cooperative to
sell their grass-fed beef, testing the
limits of the local food movement. A
short discussion will follow the fi lm
screening.Friday 8:00pm
Symphony of the Soil (2012)
Symphony of the Soil explores
the complexity and mystery of soil.
Filmed on four continents and shar-
ing the voices of some of the world’s
most highly esteemed soil scientists,
farmers, and activists, the fi lm por-
trays soil as a protagonist of our
planetary story. Copies of this fi lm
will be available for you to purchase
at the NOFA-NY Bookstore and Mer-
chandise Table.Saturday 8:00pm
BOOK SIGNINGSTh ese authors have graciously off ered to sit for book signings during the
conference. Bring your copy from home or purchase one from the conference
bookstore.
Jean-Martin Fortier, Th e Market Gardener Friday 6:15pm(New Society Publishers)
Tradd Cotter, Organic Mushroom Farming Friday 8:00pmand Mycoremediation (Chelsea Green Publishing)
Paula Marcoux, Cooking with Fire Saturday 6:00pm(Storey Publishing)
Ken Mudge and Steve Gabriel, Farming the Woods Sunday 11:00am(Chelsea Green Publishing)
8 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
S P E C I A L W O R K S H O P SS P E C I A L W O R K S H O P S
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PRE-CONFERENCE FIELD DAY: Farm Tour and Lunch at Pleasant Valley FarmTh ursday, January 22nd, from 11am to 3pm; Pleasant Valley Farm, Argyle, NY
Registration is $10 for individuals/$15 for groups from one farm (regis-
tration is separate from conference registration).
Bring your own lunch or enjoy a delicious hot, homemade lunch from the
Arnold’s farm-raised meats and vegetables. Purchased lunches must be pre-or-
dered for an additional $15 per person, payable at the farm.
Paul and Sandy Arnold have grown winter greens with organic meth-
ods in unheated high tunnels since 2006, harvesting for weekly local mar-
kets arugula, spinach, salad mix, Salanova lettuce, kale, Swiss chard,
herbs, and more. On the tour, we will visit all the greens in their three
34' x 144' automated Rimol high tunnels and hear how the Arnolds manage
seeding/transplanting dates, variety selection, winter protection, soil nu-
trition and amendments, and harvest techniques.
We will also see their heated washing station, their automated, radi-
ant-heated greenhouse with new seedlings for the tunnels, smaller tunnel
structures with overwintering onions, kale and other greens, as well as
their many storage facilities for root crops, sweet potatoes, winter squash,
and onions. Pleasant Valley Farm is a full solar-powered farm and the
house is heated by a Finish masonry heater.
A follow-up discussion will be included in the Arnolds’ Sunday morning
workshop, Profi table Crops in High Tunnels Th rough Good Soil Management.
Th is fi eld day is supported by the New York State Department of Agricul-
ture and Markets Specialty Crop Block Grant.
9Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
S P E C I A L W O R K S H O P SS P E C I A L W O R K S H O P S
SPECIAL EXPO AND FORUMS: Renaissance of Grains in the NortheastFriday, January 23rd, afternoon and eveningSaratoga Hilton and City Center
Join in this open forum and expo of enterprising farmers, millers, bak-
ers, maltsters, and craft brewers who are leading the Northeast grains
revival, and who will showcase their innovative grain based goods. Dur-
ing lunch (12:15pm), fi nd vendors and exhibitors with one thing on their
agenda: GRAINS!
After eating, networking and shopping the expo, settle in for an af-
ternoon round table. Klaas and Mary-Howell Martens of Lakeview
Organic Grain and Jack Lazor of Butterworks Farm (author of Th e Or-
ganic Grain Grower) will lead a discussion with millers, bakers and craft-
ers to illuminate issues about the current harvest, unique value-added
grains and the emerging craft industries supporting local grain farmers
(1:15pm).
Th e evening social hour (6:15pm) will include samples of edible and
drinkable creations from Northeast-grown grains. After dinner, we’ll
conclude the evening with a networking and discussion session on Grain
Quality (8:00pm).
MEMBERSHIPPlease consider making a dona-
tion to NOFA-NY as part of your
conference registration. Your gen-
erous support allows us to off er
high quality educational events
and resources for farmers, con-
sumers, gardeners, and busi-
nesses. Your gift of $45 or more
will provide you with a one year
membership. For a full descrip-
tion of member benefi ts, visit
www.nofany.org/join. NOFA-NY
is a 501(c)(3) non-profi t organiza-
tion. All membership donations
are tax deductible to the fullest
extent of the law. Join us today!
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10 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
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Track Name Time
Friday 7:30am-9:00am
Friday 9:00am-12:15pm; please indicate Friday
workshop preference when registering
Making the Most of Soils with Recycled
Nutrients
The Many Rewards of Keeping
Honeybees*
Getting Your Orchard Up and
Growing
Six-Figure Farming for Small Plots
Down & Dirty: Evaluating Soil and
Land
Friday 12:15-1:15pm
Friday 1:15-4:30pm; please indicate Friday workshop
preference when registering
Pasture Planning and Management
The Many Rewards of Keeping
Honeybees (cont.)
Ecological Soil Management Strategies for
Perennial Crops
Intermediate Garlic Production
Full On Farm Finance: Budgets and Planning for
Start Up and Growth*
Friday 4:45-6:15pmFriday 6:15-7:15pmFriday 7:15-8:30pmFriday 8:30-10:30pm
Saturday 7:00-8:00am
Saturday 8:00-9:15amGrazing Grassfed
Beef
Achieving the Golden Yolk of
Pasture Raised Egg Production and
Marketing
Pears, Pears, Pears!
The Latest Innovations in Four-Season Vegetable
Production
Land, Credit, Capital: How to
Make USDA Work for You
Saturday 9:30-10:45am
Cooperatively Marketing Beef; Knowing Your Bottom Line
The Practical Pig Grape ExpectationsOrganic Sweet
Corn
Cultivating Tool and Equipment Efficiencies
Saturday 11:00am-12:15pm
Saturday 12:15-1:30pm
Saturday 1:30-2:45pmHow to Add Value
to your Milk
How Farmers Work Successfully with
Processors
Full Season Fruit CSA : The Highs
and Lows
Biological Control for Plant Disease
Management
Creating Production Plans to Meet Your
Market Goals
Saturday 3:00-4:15pmRaw Milk on a
Diversified FarmLivestock Mineral
BalancingPaw Paws &
KiwifruitsSoil Fertility
ManagementHow to be a Great
Farm Boss
Saturday 4:30-5:45pmSaturday 5:45-6:45pmSaturday 6:45-8:00pm
Saturday 8:00-11:00pm
Sunday 7:00-8:00am
Sunday 8:00-9:15amPastured Poultry
Basics
Basics of Goat and Sheep Nutrition
(Part 1)
Grafting and Perennial Fruit
Propagation
Profitable Crops in High Tunnels
through Good Soil Management
Land Access Tools and Resources
Sunday 9:45-11:00am
Different Milks Make different Cheeses: Milk chemistry & Composition
Explained
The Nuts and Bolts of Feeding Goats
and Sheep (Part 2)Pollinators
Season Extension Options for Your
Farm
Building an Incubator Farm
Curriculum
Sunday 11:00am-1:00pm
Sunday 11:30am-1:00pm
Breakfast
Last Chance to Visit the Trade Show and Bookstore
Lunch, Goodbyes and Next Steps
Breakfast & NOFA-NY Certified Organic, LLC Annual Meeting
Annual Meeting: Everyone Welcome (Members Can Vote)
Dinner
Opening Remarks and Keynote Address: Wes Jackson
Dairy & Grazing Livestock Fruits VegetablesBeginning Farming
Discussion Groups, Film Screening & Contra Dance
Keynote: Klaas & Mary-Howell Martens
DinnerBeginning Farmer Meetup, Film & Discussion Group
Lunch
Social Hour, Trade Show & Discussion Groups
Social Hour and Grain Tasting, Trade Show & Discussion Groups
Lunch
Breakfast
11Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
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City of Flows: Human-
Hydrosphere Relationships on the Urban Farm
Farm, Family & Health: Childcare & Healthcare's Impact
on the Farm*
New Opportunities for Organic Grain
Production (Keynote
Presenters)
Organic Hop Growing
Yes We Can! Ferment Change!
Preserve Your Harvest!
Carbon Farming: Regenerative
Agriculture for the Climate
Mycoremediation of Contaminated Soil
and WaterNegotiation Skills*
Grains Expo including vendor
tables, discussion and networking.
Vegetable Farmers and their Soil
Health Practices
Growing and Using Herbs for Colds &
Flu
Breaking Ground in Vacant Urban Lots
Get Ready (Small Scale Food
Processors Series, Part 1)
In-House Milling for a Microbakery
Soil Fertility and Management for
Field Crops
Potential of Living Willow Structures
Food Justice Certified
Urban Microlivestock
Get Set (Small Scale Food
Processors Series, Part 2)
Organic Grains A-to-Z
Mushrooms on Agricultural and Livestock Waste
Permaculture Strategies for the
Homestead
A Garden in Every School
Urban Mushroom Cultivation
Get Going! (Small Scale Food
Processors Series, Part 3)
Soial Organic Matter (Keynote
Presenter)
Update on Chinese Medicinal Herb
Production
Modular Cathedral Tunnel Building
Demo
Building Our Organic Policy
Voice
Urban Farming Risks and Rewards
Wholesale Local Meats to Institutions
You Can Grow Dry Beans
Crop Breeding for Organic Farms
Earthen Construction
Projects & Fire Cooking
GMO Labeling
Carribbean Vegetables for Urban Markets
Financial and Income
Assurance…Even When Disasters
Happen!
Value Added Grains: Meeting the
Potential Market Demand
Forest Mushroom Cultivation and
MarketingNatural Dye Garden
Why We Must Stop Fracking in New
York
Vegetable Pests and Diseases in
Urban Areas
Simple Social Media Marketing
Growing Grains for Booze
Farming the WoodsNative Plant Propagation
Farmers Pledge Forum
Breakfast
Last Chance to Visit the Trade Show and Bookstore
Lunch, Goodbyes and Next Steps
Breakfast & NOFA-NY Certified Organic, LLC Annual Meeting
Annual Meeting: Everyone Welcome (Members Can Vote)
Social Hour, Trade Show & Discussion GroupsDinner
Breakfast
Opening Remarks and Keynote Address: Wes Jackson
Discussion Groups, Film Screening & Contra Dance
Keynote: Klaas & Mary-Howell Martens
DinnerBeginning Farmer Meetup, Film & Discussion Groups
Lunch
Social Hour and Grain Tasting, Trade Show & Discussion Groups
Lunch
Urban FarmingMarketing &
BusinessGrains & Field
CropsOther NY
EnterprisesGardening &
HomesteadingPolicy &
Community
12 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
B E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P SB E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P S
DOWN AND DIRTY: Evaluating Soil and Land to Plan a Successful Farm
Th e native soil on a farm strongly infl uences what crops will grow well
and what degree of management that land will require for production.
Learn about assessing potential fi elds and farms using publicly available
soil maps, soil testing, what to look for “on the ground” before using or
purchasing land, and accessing loan and grant programs to improve the
layout and features of a piece of land for farming. Farmer case studies and
audience participation will provide you with a deeper understanding of
what to do with the land you have, and how to go about fi nding new fi elds.
Presented by Susan Decker, Blue Star Farm; Elizabeth Marks, USDA
Natural Resources Conservation Service; Crystal Stewart, Cornell
Cooperative ExtensionFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
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FULL-ON FARM FINANCE: Budgeting and Planning for Start-Up and Growth
Full On Farm Finance presenters are farmers and on-the-side educators
who focus on fi nancial planning and success. Join us for a mix of lecture,
demonstration and small group activities designed for intermediate farm-
er-accountants. Our aim is to help you achieve your farm dream, for the
long term! Attendance limited, pre-registration recommended.
Presented by Melissa Madden and Garrett Miller, Good Life FarmFriday 1:15–4:30pm
13Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
B E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P SB E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P S
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LAND, CREDIT, CAPITAL: How to Make USDA Work for You
Looking for a low-interest-rate
loan, cost-sharing on conservation
structures or technical assistance?
USDA programs are here to help,
but can be challenging to navigate
for new farmers. In this workshop,
Lindsey Lusher Shute and Sophie
Ackoff of the National Young Farm-
ers Coalition (NYFC) will demysti-
fy the USDA, coach you on the most
relevant programs for your farm,
and off er tips and tricks for the ap-
plication process. We’ll also intro-
duce a number of local and regional
training programs, land-linking
service and private and public fund-
ing opportunities that can help
your farm.
Presented by Sophie Ackoff ,
NYFC; Lindsey Lusher Shute,
NYFC and Hearty Roots
Community FarmSaturday 8:00–9:15am
CULTIVATING TOOL AND EQUIPMENT EFFICIENCIES
Th is workshop will provide infor-
mation and resources on appropri-
ately-scaled tools and equipment,
in order to help growers make fi -
nancial decisions that will increase
crop production effi ciencies and
farm profi ts. Information on tool
and equipment safety, quality and
ergonomic components of tools,
evaluating new and used tractors
and farm equipment, and routine
maintenance will be included.
Presented by Andy Pressman,
National Center for Appropriate
Technology, Foggy Hill FarmSaturday 9:30–10:45am
14 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
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B E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P SB E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P S
CREATING PRODUCTION PLANS TO MEET YOUR PROFIT GOALS
How do you get from profi t goals
to actual profi ts? First, identify
your goals and market niche. Next,
budgets help you fi gure out if your
perfect product will actually make
money. In this workshop we will fo-
cus on the next step: creating pro-
duction plans that will make your
goals a reality. Without good plan-
ning it is easy for the weeds, in-
sects and diseases to take over! In
this interactive workshop educator
and farmer Tianna DuPont will lead
the group through a participatory
activity to create a comprehensive
production plan. She will also share
example production plans and how
they interact with profi t and mar-
keting goals.
Presented by Tianna DuPont,
Penn State Cooperative Extension,
Shooting Star FarmsSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
HOW TO BE A GREAT FARM BOSS!
Simply put, labor management
can make or break a farm business!
In this workshop hear basic princi-
ples for getting the most out of your
farm workers or apprentices, while
at the same time ensuring that ev-
eryone feels a sense of fulfi llment,
investment, and most importantly-
joy. Learn how to hire the best peo-
ple, how to make sure an employee
is a good fi t, how great leaders com-
municate, how to present new
tasks, how to check work and give
feedback, and how to manage work-
fl ow and transitions between tasks.
Presented by David Hambleton,
Sisters Hill FarmSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
15Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
FARMLAND ACCESS: Navigating the Resources to Find Your Farm
Th is workshop explores how be-
ginning farmers can fi nd and use
existing resources to help prepare a
search for land, fi nd land on which
to start their farms, and secure
long-term tenure arrangements.
With the Hudson Valley Farmlink
Network as an example, this work-
shop will use presentation and dis-
cussion to review how beginning
farmers can connect with the right
resources and how they can use
these resources to identify and eval-
uate their land access needs and to
fi nd and evaluate farmland as well
as appropriate farmland access op-
tions. Th is workshop is geared to
beginning and intermediate farm-
ers as well as to farmland owners
looking to work with farmers.
Presented by Tim Biello,
American Farmland Trust;
Marissa Codey, Columbia Land
ConservancySunday 8:00–9:15am
BUILDING AN INCUBATOR FARMER CURRICULUM
Providing training to “incubatee”
farmers and beginner farmers can
be challenging given the other
constraints of a farm season. Th is
workshop details approaches used
on Th e Seed Farm to enmesh crop
planning, equipment operation,
business planning and market/
wholesale management into our
farm operations and through our
part time training program. Th is
workshop is meant to give other in-
cubator farm managers and farm-
ers with apprentices ideas about
how to incorporate these training
concepts into their own programs.
Presented by Becca Munro, Th e
Seed FarmSunday 9:45–11:00am
B E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P SB E G I N N I N G F A R M E R W O R K S H O P S
BE
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16 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
DA
IRY
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GD
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AZ
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D A I R Y & G R A Z I N G W O R K S H O P SD A I R Y & G R A Z I N G W O R K S H O P S
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SOILS WITH RECYCLED NUTRIENTS
Th is half day intensive workshop will help you understand how to sam-
ple soils and manure and interpret the test results to help you get the most
benefi t from nutrients you already have available on your farm. Bring in
your manure and/or soil test results and learn what might be the missing
links in your soil health and crop productivity.
Presented by Mark Kopecky, Organic Valley and CROPP CooperativeFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
PASTURE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENTGrazing is an art based in science. Th e better the science the better the
art. In this workshop, the principles of ecologically sound grazing plan-
ning and management will be presented and interpreted as practices on
the land.
Presented by Darrell Emmick, USDA Natural Resources Conservation
ServiceFriday 1:15–4:30pm
GRAZING GRASS FED BEEF100% Grass Fed Beef is not only
good for you to eat, it is integral
to soil, animal and farmer health
on the farm. Tricia Park will share
how Creekside Meadows has devel-
oped beef herd grazing goals, breed-
ing, marketing, profi t potential,
and (the most important thing)
how to manage pastures holistical-
ly to increase fertility, production
and profi t. Be prepared to step out
of the usual grazing paradigm and
be a better grazer.
Presented by Tricia Park,
Creekside MeadowsSaturday 8:00–9:15am
COOPERATIVELY MARKETING BEEF: Knowing Your Bott om Line
Ms. Ortensi will discuss the cost
of production of raising fi nished
beef for slaughter. She will be draw-
ing upon the Adirondack Grazers
Cooperative’s analysis as well as
Th e Ortensi Farm’s participation in
the recent Cornell University fund-
ed study about cost of production of
fi nished beef.
Presented by Bernadette
Ortensi, Th e Ortensi FarmSaturday 9:30–10:45am
17Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
BUILDING BUTTERWORKS: How to Add Value to Your Milk
Join Anne and Jack Lazor of But-
terworks Farm to learn how their
Jersey herd is managed to produce
a full line of exceptional cultured
dairy products year round. Hear
how Anne keeps her girls healthy
and producing high quality milk
through excellent feed (grown ex-
clusively on Butterworks Farm) and
homeopathic care. Share in the sto-
ry of Butterworks Farms, who they
produce for, how they market their
products, and what they have done
to maintain a small farm operation
that is able to support three genera-
tions of their family.
Presented by Jack and Anne
Lazor, Butterworks FarmSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
RAW MILK ON A DIVERSIFIED FARM
Matt and Gillian will discuss
the details of their small, raw milk
dairy operation including licensing,
insurance, herd management and
improvement, and marketing.
Presented by Matt Volz and
Gillian Goldberg, Greyrock FarmSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
PASTURED POULTRY BASICSJoin us for a beginner-level dis-
cussion of poultry raising from
chick hatching to butchering. Th is
will include brooding chicks, hous-
ing, fencing, feed, and some details
of processing.
Presented by Karma Glos,
Kingbird FarmSunday 8:00–9:15am
DIFFERENT MILKS MAKE DIFFERENT CHEESES: Milk Chemistry and Composition Explained
Th e composition and chemistry
of milk is integral to the type of
cheese made and the consistency of
the product. In this workshop, we
will explore the diff erences in cow,
goat and sheep’s milk and even dif-
ferences between breeds. We will
also explore how seasonality, lacta-
tion cycle, and diet all play a signifi -
cant role in quality control.
Presented by Julia Lowry,
Cheesemaker; Veronica Pedraza,
Meadowood FarmsSunday 9:45–11:00am
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D A I R Y & G R A Z I N G W O R K S H O P SD A I R Y & G R A Z I N G W O R K S H O P S
18 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
FR
UIT
SF
RU
ITS
F R U I T W O R K S H O P SF R U I T W O R K S H O P S
GETTING YOUR ORCHARD UP AND GROWINGEver wonder how to select the best orchard site, plant a tree, or just get
your trees to produce fruit? So much of what you do in the fi rst few years
determines the long-term success of your orchard. Come learn the ins and
outs of getting your own orchard up and growing.
Presented by Mike Biltonen, Know Your Roots ConsultingFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
ECOLOGICAL SOIL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR PERENNIAL CROPS
Biodynamic and permaculture farming practices both provide eff ec-
tive strategies to improve understory management for fruit, perennial,
and annual crop farmers. Join Th reshold Farm’s Hugh Williams as he dis-
cusses how they turned their farm’s worn-down pastures into the grass-
es that drive the engine of farm fertility, while making a farming-based
living from day one. Above and below ground soil and biological interac-
tions, long term perennial crop management, keyline plowing, integrating
perennial and annual cropping, and a range of biodynamic and permacul-
ture practices will be covered.
Presented by Hugh Williams, Th reshold FarmFriday 1:15–4:30pm
PEARS, PEARS, PEARS!Once a mainstay of the NY tree
fruit industry, pears are on the
comeback. Easier than apples, more
diffi cult than a Rubik’s cube, recent
advances in production tools, espe-
cially with regard to rootstocks, and
insect and disease controls, now
make it possible for pear enthusi-
asts to tackle organic production of
this magnifi cent fruit. Come unlock
the secrets of Pyrus!
Presented by Mike Biltonen,
Know Your Roots ConsultingSaturday 8:00–9:15am
GRAPE EXPECTATIONS: From Choosing Varieties to Eating the Berries
Grapes are relatively easy to grow
and very fl avorful (over 5,000 vari-
eties!) as long as special attention
is paid to variety, site, and pruning.
Rounding out this workshop will be
other considerations, starting with
planning, for a bountiful harvest.
Th e emphasis will be on grapes for
eating rather than winemaking.
Presented by Lee Reich, Th e
FarmdenSaturday 9:30–10:45am
19Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
FR
UIT
SF
RU
ITS
F R U I T W O R K S H O P SF R U I T W O R K S H O P S
FULL SEASON FRUIT CSA: Th e Highs and Lows
A fruit CSA may be a great addi-
tion to an existing farm plan or the
beginning of a new endeavor. How
does a twenty week season of fruit
work on the planning, planting and
fi eld management side? We will ex-
plore the diverse mix of annuals
and perennials needed to achieve a
full season in the Northeast.
Presented by John Reynolds,
Daring Drake FarmSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
PAWPAWS AND KIWIFRUITS: Two Uncommon Fruits for Backyards and Markets
Pawpaw is a hardy, native fruit
with many tropical aspirations,
right down to its fruit, which has
a texture and fl avor reminiscent of
banana with hints of mango and
avocado mixed in. Hardy kiwifruit
is a cousin to the fuzzy market ki-
wifruit with better tastes. Both
fruits are cold-hardy, have minimal
pest problems so, along with their
unique, delicious fl avors, are ideally
suited for growing in backyards or
for market, especially organic and
specialty markets. Th is workshop
will cover everything from variety
choice to planting, pruning, har-
vest, storage, and marketing.
Presented by Lee Reich, Th e
FarmdenSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
GRAFTING AND PERENNIAL FRUIT PROPAGATION
We will explore the history and
techniques of grafting and propa-
gating perennial fruit crops. Th ere
will be hands on instruction in per-
forming a whip and tongue graft of
an apple tree.
Presented by John Reynolds,
Daring Drake FarmSunday 8:00–9:15am
NATIVE AND WILD POLLINATORS OF APPLE ORCHARDS
Th is workshop will address the
role of native and wild bees in the
pollination of apple orchards. It will
look at factors that contribute to
bee diversity and abundance, such
as percent natural area surrounding
the orchard, pesticide usage, and
fl oral diversity.
Presented by Laura Russo,
Cornell University Danforth LabSunday 9:45–11:00am
20 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
GR
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& F
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GR
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G R A I N & F I E L D C R O P S W O R K S H O P SG R A I N & F I E L D C R O P S W O R K S H O P S
NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR ORGANIC GRAIN PRODUCTION
We will discuss a variety of new markets that are emerging for organ-
ic small grains, including food grade, feed grade, seed, distilling, malting,
and heritage grains. We will also discuss agronomic requirements to meet
the quality specifi cations of these markets.
Presented by Klaas and Mary-Howell Martens, Lakeview Organic
GrainFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
A BAKER BECOMES A MILLER: In-House Milling for a Microbakery
Elmore Mountain Bread takes
pride in the fact that each loaf is
handmade and attended to from
start to fi nish, a 16-hour process. In
2012, Andrew Heyn designed and
built a stone mill. Inspired by a bak-
er-miller friend, he wanted to add a
new aspect to his wood-fi red bak-
ery. After researching several com-
mercial stone mills, he bought two
700 pound granite stones and built
his own. He is now milling most
of the wheat for his bread. Join
Andrew and Blair for a presentation
about this venture and a discussion
about setting up a small millhouse.
Presented by Andrew Heyn and
Blair Marvin, Elmore Mountain
BreadSaturday 8:00–9:15am
ORGANIC GRAINS A-TO-ZJoin us for an opportunity to
learn from the legendary farmer
and mentor sharing a lifetime of
experiences learned from the soil
up. Hear how the Lazors combine
bootstrap organic farming and val-
ue-added grain products while sup-
porting a dairy farm and building
community.
Presented by Jack Lazor,
Butterworks FarmSaturday 9:30–10:45am
SOIL ORGANIC MATTER: Understanding the Holy Grail of Organic Agriculture
Growers often talk about the
need to “build soil organic mat-
ter” and many feel guilty or frus-
trated when they fall short of their
below ground aspirations. What de-
termines how much organic matter
one should expect to fi nd in a giv-
en soil? When and to what degree is
soil carbon sequestration in agricul-
ture possible? In this workshop we
will explore the concept of soil or-
ganic matter equilibrium in natu-
ral ecosystems, and consider how
this understanding informs what
might be desirable and achievable
in agriculture.
Presented by Wes Jackson and
Tim Crews, Th e Land InstituteSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
21Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
GR
AIN
& F
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GR
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& F
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D C
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G R A I N & F I E L D C R O P S W O R K S H O P SG R A I N & F I E L D C R O P S W O R K S H O P S
YES, YOU CAN GROW DRY BEANS!
Sometimes it feels like plant-
ing edible dry beans is a lot of work
for a little yield. Join Anne Rior-
dan from Cayuga Pure Organics in
a conversation about making edi-
ble beans worth growing. We will go
over seed choice, soil management,
pest and disease concerns, nutri-
ent necessities, machinery choices,
planting through harvest and stor-
age, and much more!
Presented by Anne Riordan,
Cayuga Pure OrganicsSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
VALUE ADDED GRAINS: Meeting the Potential Market Demand
Regional production of organ-
ic small grains in the Northeast re-
quires building an infrastructure
to reach a market hungry for prod-
uct. People at every step of the val-
ue chain need to work together for
grains to reach the consumer. Th is
workshop will be conducted as a
roundtable that includes actors in
the value chain to discuss obstacles
and opportunities.
Presented by Brian Baker,
Value-Added Grains Project; June
Russell, GrowNYC Greenmarket;
Th or Oecshner, Oecshner FarmSunday 8:00–9:15am
GROWING GRAIN FOR BOOZE
We will start with a historical
overview, putting current NY state
distilling in context. We will ex-
plain the basics of turning grain
into whiskey, particularly the pro-
cesses that relate directly to agri-
culture. We will focus on growing
grain for distillers, highlighting
quality markers for distillers vs.
comparable quality standards for
fl our and brewing. We will discuss
diversifying a small vegetable oper-
ation with a plot of corn or rye and
the challenges and benefi ts of doing
so. We will also discuss our experi-
ence as growers and our experience
working with other farmers. Last-
ly, we will touch on variety and seed
sourcing concerns and end with a
tasting and QandA session.
Presented by Christopher
Williams and Sam Zurofsky,
Coppersea DistillingSunday 9:45–11:00am
22 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
GA
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GA
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G A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P SG A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P S
YES WE CAN! FERMENT CHANGE! PRESERVE YOUR HARVEST!
Using time-honored techniques of canning and fermentation, learn
the best methods for preserving the wide variety of produce you harvest.
As we demonstrate during our session, participants will learn the theory
and practice of both methods. We will discuss the nutritional benefi ts of
canned and fermented foods as well as how to implement canning and fer-
mentation safely.
Presented by Angela Davis, Just Food; Michaela Hayes, Crock & JarFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
GROWING AND USING HERBS FOR COLDS AND FLULearn natural ways to fortify your immune system and mitigate the
symptoms of colds and the fl u. We will sample tasty infusions made from
these herbs while we learn to grow and make our own remedies.
Presented by Betty Pillsbury, Green Spiral HerbsFriday 1:15–4:30pm
23Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
GA
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& H
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GA
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& H
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G A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P SG A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P S
THE POTENTIAL OF LIVING WILLOW STRUCTURES
Living willow structures are be-
ing integrated into a new landscape
design. Th ey are green, growing,
sustainable and beautiful to expe-
rience. Th ey can serve as a simple
living fence, arch, dome or gazebo
and can also be complex outdoor
living rooms, art sculptural forms
and multi-functional connected in-
stallations. Th ey have potential for
the homestead as well as commer-
cial applications. Th is presentation
will defi ne living structures, then
provide methods of construction
including grafting, fedge methods,
and poling. Th e elements of suc-
cessful design, growth, and devel-
opment will be covered. Th ere will
be review of international work and
the potential for living buildings.
Presented by Bonnie
Gale, Landscape Designer,
Permaculturalist, and Willow
ArtistSaturday 8:00–9:15am
PERMACULTURE STRATEGIES FOR THE HOMESTEAD
Th is presentation will start by
giving a brief introduction to per-
maculture (ecologically sustainable
land and human design). It will cov-
er ethics, principles, designs, and
applications. Th e bulk of the ses-
sion will focus on a dozen easi-
ly implementable strategies for the
homesteader to build integrative
and highly productive ecosystems.
Th ese strategies include pattern
language, zones of use, water stor-
age and collection, multi-function-
al crops, the role of animals, soil
building, and many more. Th is ses-
sion is an introduction to the sub-
ject and will hopefully whet the
appetite for more!
Presented by Bonnie
Gale, Landscape Designer,
Permaculturalist, and Willow
ArtistSaturday 9:30–10:45am
24 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
GA
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GA
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G A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P SG A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P S
MODULAR CATHEDRAL TUNNEL BUILDING FOR FOUR-SEASON VEGETABLE PRODUCTION
Join Clara Coleman as she leads
an interactive demonstration work-
shop on how to construct a modu-
lar movable Cathedral Tunnel for
small-scale four-season vegeta-
ble production. Clara’s father Eliot
Coleman designed this 14' x 16' mod-
ular movable tunnel at Four Season
Farm. Learn where to source mate-
rials, how to fabricate parts and the
steps involved in constructing this
tunnel for your farm or home gar-
den for as little as $2/square foot.
Best four-season growing practices,
techniques and crop scheduling will
also be discussed. Instruction man-
ual included.
Presented by Clara Coleman,
Four-Season Farm Consulting;
Adam Lemieux, Johnny’s Selected
SeedsSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
SIMPLE EARTHEN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: Fun and Flavor in Your Own Backyard
Expand your backyard cooking
horizons with some simple con-
struction projects using earth,
stone, repurposed metal and fire.
Presenting a va-
riety of images,
Paula wil l show
technologies em-
ployed by pa st
c o o k s a n d a r -
t isa ns to t a me
and manipulate
fire and to pro-
duce some amaz-
ing foods. She’ll then demonstrate
a few recipes using the simplest of
live-fi re cooking techniques (trans-
lated to the gas stove this time by
necessity). Be inspired to incorpo-
rate these timeless ways of building
and cooking into your outdoor—
o r e v e n
indoor—fun.
Presented
by Paula
Marcoux,
Food
Historian
and AuthorSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
25Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
NATURAL DYE GARDENTh is workshop will introduce par-
ticipants to the colorful world of
natural dye plants, many of which
are dual purpose edibles and have
herbal/medicinal properties. Learn
which plants produce which colors
and fare well in the Northeast cli-
mate, as well as how and when to
harvest, which parts of the plants
are to be used, and yield of color
potency per plant. Come to know
which plants have been most val-
ued through time for their light and
wash fast nature. Historical context
as well as traditional native plants
will be highlighted. Seed saving
techniques and basic natural dyeing
methods will also be covered.
Presented by Liz Spencer, Th e
Dogwood DyerSunday 8:00–9:15am
NATIVE PLANT PROPAGATION
Th is workshop will provide in-
structions on growing native plants
from seeds. Th e species selected are
suitable for: habitat restoration,
woodland or meadow gardens, and
community landscape projects. Th e
requirements and techniques to
successfully germinate seeds and
grow plants from seedling to ma-
turity will be covered. Learn, grow
and share!
Presented by Krissy Boys,
Cornell Plantations and Finger
Lakes Native Plant SocietySunday 9:45–11:00am G
AR
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G A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P SG A R D E N I N G & H O M E S T E A D I N G W O R K S H O P S
26 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
THE MANY REWARDS OF KEEPING HONEYBEESLearn how to keep honeybees and help reduce threats to declining pol-
linator populations. Beekeepers improve their vegetable and fruit yields,
improve local food security, and often receive a sweet bonus—delicious
honey. Learn about honeybees’ life cycle, important plants, and habitat
requirements. Th is workshop will cover apiary site selection and man-
agement. Learn how to install bees in a hive, good hive management to
minimize pest and disease problems, why bees swarm, and how to collect
swarms. Learn how to harvest honey and beeswax, and hear about other
products derived from beekeeping. A recommended reading list, plant list
and supplier list will be provided. Attendance limited and a $5 materials fee
is required of participants, please pre-register.
Presented by Sanne Kure-Jensen, NOFA/RIFriday 9:00am–4:30pm
ACHIEVING THE GOLDEN YOLK OF PASTURE-RAISED EGG PRODUCTION AND MARKETING
So many things go into egg pro-
duction on pasture—no matter the
fl ock size. Th is workshop will ad-
dress topics from shelter and pred-
ator problems to bugs and omegas.
Most importantly, we’ll examine
whether pastured eggs can be a prof-
itable venture to add to your farm.
Presented by Carrie Edsall,
Black Willow Pond FarmSaturday 8:00–9:15am
THE PRACTICAL PIGTh is workshop is all about hands
on, common sense ways to raise
pastured pork. Hear an exploration
of maintaining breeding stock year-
round and personal stories from al-
most 30 years living amongst the
pigs.
Presented by Brian Bennett,
Bittersweet FarmSaturday 9:30–10:45am
HOW FARMERS WORK SUCCESSFULLY WITH PROCESSORS
Farmers take great pains to raise
their livestock sustainably and hu-
manely. So why do they often feel
they are “twisting in the wind”
when they drop their livestock off
at the slaughterhouse? Th is presen-
tation will help farmers understand
what happens at the processing
plant, what kind of yields to ex-
pect in pounds of usable meat, how
to convey cutting instructions,
and some simple tips and common
courtesies that will make life much
easier.
Presented by Kathleen Harris,
Northeast Livestock Processing
Service CompanySaturday 1:30–2:45pm
LIV
ES
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LIV
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L I V E S T O C K W O R K S H O P SL I V E S T O C K W O R K S H O P S
27Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
LIV
ES
TO
CK
LIV
ES
TO
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L I V E S T O C K W O R K S H O P SL I V E S T O C K W O R K S H O P S
LIVESTOCK MINERAL BALANCING
Join Reuben Stoltzfus for an ad-
vanced workshop focusing on
balancing the minerals in your live-
stock’s diet. Hear how to manage
your farm for high quality pasture,
forage and feed stuff s from great
soils. Reuben will explain how to
couple quality feed with Recom-
mended Dietary Allowances (RDA)
in minerals to create a complete ra-
tion. Learn about the diff erent (and
certifi ed organic) minerals that are
available to organic farmers for cat-
tle, sheep, goats, poultry and hogs.
Th is workshop will discuss the nu-
tritional needs for health, produc-
tion and reproduction.
Presented by Reuben Stoltzfus,
Lancaster Agricultural ProductsSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
THE BASICS OF GOAT AND SHEEP NUTRITION: Part 1
We’ll cover the nutrients essen-
tial for ruminant animals as well as
nutrient requirements at diff erent
production phases. We’ll discuss
good feed management practic-
es and compare the feeding behav-
iours of goats and sheep. We will
also touch on some of the metabolic
illnesses associated with nutrition-
al problems and how to prevent and
treat them.
Presented by tatiana Stanton
and Maureen Valentine, Cornell
UniversitySunday 8:00–9:15am
THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF FEEDING GOATS AND SHEEP: Part 2
We will focus on balancing feed
rations, starting with reading a feed
tag and how to do a Pearson square.
We’ll walk the group step-by-step
through some ration balancers
available online for goat and sheep
farmers, and how these tools can
be utilized for real-life operations.
If time allows, we’ll review forage
analyses to see what they tell us
about the nutrition of our animals.
Presented by tatiana Stanton
and Maureen Valentine, Cornell
UniversitySunday 9:45–11:00am
28 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
FARM, FAMILY, AND HEALTH: How Do Childcare and Healthcare Impact Farm Operations?
In recent years, there have been national eff orts to cultivate a young, vi-
brant farm population; however, farm families continue to report many
challenges in managing and growing the farm enterprise. Among these
challenges are the cost and availability of child care and health insurance.
Th is interactive session will ask participants to discuss how the availabil-
ity and cost of healthcare and child care infl uence their farm operation,
and what they see as potential solutions to these challenges. Th is session
is part of a larger study by researchers at the University of Vermont ex-
ploring child care and healthcare in farm families, with similar workshops
being held in other Northeastern states. Attendance limited, pre-registra-
tion recommended.
Presented by Emily Stengel and Shoshanah Inwood, University of
VermontFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
NEGOTIATION SKILLSTh is intensive will focus on the theory and practical use of a variety of
communication and negotiation skills. Participants will be exposed to a
range of current thinking on negotiation theory, but should also expect
a high degree of interactivity and participation as we practice using these
tools in short, small group exercises as well as full blown role play situa-
tions. Attendance limited, pre-registration recommended.
Presented by Peter Glassman, NYS Agricultural Mediation ProgramFriday 1:15–4:30pm
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GET READY: Taking Your Passion for Food and Making Money
What are your fi rst steps in tak-
ing your passion and creating a vi-
able food processing business?
How do you make sure your foun-
dation is strong enough to support
your growth? How do you get start-
ed? We know you have a great rec-
ipe, and while that is important,
there is so much more to plan. You
don’t need a 40-page business plan
with charts and graphs, but you do
need to know how to create a path
for yourself to walk. Th is workshop
is the fi rst of a three-part series
teaching you the basics of what you
need to do to start a business and
generate revenues.
Presented by Kathrine Gregory,
Mi Kitchen es su KitchenSaturday 8:00–9:15am
GET SET: Outgrowing Your Kitchen, the Next Steps in Processing
Are you ready to move out of your
home kitchen? Is your communi-
ty ready for a shared-use commer-
cial kitchen? Th inking of processing
food cooperatively? Uncertain
about the steps you need to take to
bring your products to market? Dis-
cover some options, ask questions
and learn fi rst hand about our expe-
riences navigating this process.
Presented by Jori Wekin, Essex
FarmSaturday 9:30–10:45am
GET GOING: Bringing Your Product to Market
Th is workshop will help you de-
velop an action plan to successful-
ly market your product. Jeri will
go over identity creation and how
packaging and branding can help
set your business apart from its
competition.
Presented by Jeri Woodhouse,
North Fork Specialty Kitchen, Inc.Saturday 1:30–2:45pm
WHOLESALING LOCAL MEATS TO INSTITUTIONS: Barriers and Opportunities
Institutional markets off er a high
volume opportunity, but is it right
for your farm business? If your
farm has expanded such that di-
rect marketing is not possible for all
your products or if you are fi nding
it too labor intensive, perhaps insti-
tutional sales should be considered.
Th is presentation will discuss these
basics along with some success sto-
ries about institutional meat sales.
Presented by Kathleen Harris,
Northeast Livestock Processing
Service CompanySaturday 3:00–4:15pm
30 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
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FINANCIAL AND INCOME ASSURANCE …Even When Disasters Happen!
Th e workshop will introduce the
new and greatly improved fi nancial
and income assurance tools of the
new farm bill and provide hands-on
demonstrations of how attendees
can use them to develop their own
personalized farm plans that will
assure fi nancial and income stabil-
ity when crop disasters occur. At-
tendees will be requested to share
their ideas/suggestions of improve-
ments needed to make current tools
and programs more eff ective for
small growers in the future.
Presented by Gene Gantz, USDA
Risk Management Agency; David
Holck, USDA Farm Service Agency;
George Wickswat, USDA Farm
Service AgencySunday 8:00–9:15am
SIMPLE SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING: Best Practices and Easily Executable Plans
Social Media is an incredibly
powerful, low cost, and easy tool for
building, informing and infl uenc-
ing your audience. From butchers to
bakers, and farmers to fermenters,
everyone’s business or non-prof-
it can benefi t from a simple social
media marketing strategy. Rebecca
will (1) review social media best
practices, touching on Facebook,
Twitter, Yelp, Instagram and Linke-
dIn; (2) off er an easily executable
social media strategy and planning
framework, highlighting case stud-
ies; (3) touch on the benefi ts and
pitfalls of social media advertis-
ing; and (4) respond to social media
questions. Th is workshop is target-
ed to organizations and business-
es that already know how to create
posts and share photos.
Presented by Rebecca Frimmer,
Kitchen Table ConsultantsSunday 9:45–11:00am
31Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
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ORGANIC HOP PRODUCTIONWhether your hopyard is in the planning stages or already growing, you
probably know that producing organic hops is a great opportunity but can
be challenging! Join the University of Vermont’s Heather Darby and Ad-
dison Hop Farm’s Kris Anderson to focus on some of the production and
management aspects to organic hop cultivation, including soil manage-
ment and fertility building, a review of hop growth and care, pest and dis-
ease identifi cation and organic controls, variety selection, and more.
Presented by Heather Darby, University of Vermont; Kristofer
Anderson, Addison Hop Farm Friday 9:00am–12:15pm
VEGETABLE FARMERS AND THEIR SOIL HEALTH PRACTICES
Vegetable farmers use a wide variety of techniques to measure and man-
age nutrients, maintain organic matter, reduce tillage, use cover crops in
rotation, and address issues like compaction. Th is interactive workshop
will show diff erent practices that organic farmers in the region are using
to address the topics above, identify some key questions, then invite par-
ticipants to share their own experiences and knowledge in a facilitated
discussion of each topic.
Presented by Vern Grubinger, University of Vermont ExtensionFriday 1:15–4:30pm
SOIL FERTILITY AND MANAGEMENT FOR FIELD CROPS
Research at Cornell and else-
where has shown that optimal fer-
tilization can reduce weeds and
save money while producing excel-
lent grain crops. We will look at soil
fertility, soil health, cover crops,
weeds, and tillage for cash grains in
New York State.
Presented by Brian Caldwell,
Cornell Sustainable Cropping
Systems LabSaturday 8:00–9:15am
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CULTIVATING MUSHROOMS ON AGRICULTURAL AND LIVESTOCK WASTE
If you think growing mushrooms
is too complicated, here’s your
chance to see how easy and reward-
ing it can be. Th is workshop will get
you growing, and you’ll leave un-
derstanding the best ways to culti-
vate delicious mushrooms at home
or on your farm using agricultural
by-products such as straw or plant
waste, as well as livestock manures
to cultivate Oyster Mushrooms, Al-
mond Portabellas, King Stropharia,
and many more using similar tech-
niques designed to channel waste
streams into edible protein while
creating incredible compost as the
end product for your garden. You’ll
learn about inexpensive start-up
options for beginners, and many
commercial ideas.
Presented by Tradd Cotter,
Mushroom MountainSaturday 9:30–10:45am
GROUP EFFORT: An Update on Chinese Medicinal Herb Production
Since 2008, the direct-market
link between growers and licensed
Chinese herbal medicine practi-
tioners has evolved into a local-
ized network of groups. Th e key to
overcoming growers’ reluctance to
plant crops with 3–15 year matu-
rity, and an unknown price, proves
to be close cooperation with the
buyers based on personal relation-
ships, trust, and consensus on how
to build a future. We will look at ex-
isting groups and discuss the impli-
cations for New York.
Presented by Jean Giblette,
High Falls InstituteSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
33Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
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CROP BREEDING FOR ORGANIC FARMS
Organic crop breeding has the po-
tential to deliver crops that excel in
nutrient utilization, weed competi-
tion, pest management, and nutri-
tional quality when grown under
organic conditions. Organic agri-
culture is also highly diversifi ed in
location, scale, crops and markets.
How do we address the diverse ge-
netic needs of organic agriculture
and ensure organic farmers have
the seed necessary to thrive? Hear
from Organic Seed Alliance (OSA)
about new participatory models of
breeding partnerships, new vari-
eties that excel in organic systems,
and even new economic models for
supporting the livelihood of those
invested in on-farm breeding.
Presented by Micaela Colley,
Organic Seed Alliance; Ken Greene,
Hudson Valley Seed LibrarySaturday 3:00–4:15pm
FOREST MUSHROOM CULTIVATION AND MARKETING
Th is workshop will provide an
overview of specialty mushroom
cultivation in the context of for-
est farming. Tree species selection,
inoculation, laying yard manage-
ment, fruiting and marketing will
be covered for shiitake, oyster, lion’s
mane, and stropharia mushrooms.
Presented by Kenneth Mudge,
Cornell University; Steve Gabriel,
Cornell Cooperative Extension and
Wellspring FarmSunday 8:00–9:15am
FARMING THE WOODS: Seeing the Forest for More Th an Just the Trees
For too long, forest management
focused on timber and fi rewood
as its main yields, thus limit-
ing the opportunities for farmers
and adversely aff ecting the long
term health of the forest. Th e au-
thors of the new book Farming the
Woods invite you to learn a remark-
ably diff erent perspective on forest
management: a healthy forest can
be maintained while growing a wide
range of food, medicine, and oth-
er products. Th is talk covers culti-
vation of non-timber forest crops
such as American ginseng, shiita-
ke mushrooms, ramps (wild leeks),
maple syrup, fruit and nut trees,
and ornamentals, along with com-
pelling stories of active forest farm-
ers from around the country.
Presented by Ken Mudge,
Cornell University; Steve Gabriel,
Cornell Cooperative Extension
and Wellspring FarmSunday 9:45–11:00am
34 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
CARBON FARMING INTENSIVE: Regenerative Agriculture for the Climate
Th e global climate crisis is here and impacting communities, farms, and
ecosystems worldwide. Th is workshop will explore how regenerative agri-
culture practices can sequester atmospheric carbon and help slow or re-
verse climate change. First, we’ll look in detail at farming systems from
around the world demonstrated to increase carbon storage in perennial
plants and organic topsoil. Th ese strategies include agroforestry, planned
grazing, organic no-till, and a wide variety of other crop and soil manage-
ment practices. We’ll then focus on currently viable carbon farming appli-
cations for farmers in New York and the Northeast. Finally, we’ll examine
the state of global and regional carbon markets and recent developments
in carbon farming science.
Presented by Connor Stedman, Agroforester and Ecological DesignerFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
FOOD JUSTICE CERTIFIEDTh e Food Justice Certifi ed la-
bel brings a new approach to build-
ing market support for solidarity
among farm workers, farmers, buy-
ers, and ethical shoppers. Th e short
fi lm Hungry for Justice: Spotlight
on the South, will introduce you to
Food Justice Certifi cation. Eliza-
beth Henderson will talk about do-
mestic fair trade, the Agricultural
Justice Project, and what this new
label means for farmers and their
workers. Joe Romano, market-
ing manager for GreenStar Natu-
ral Foods Coop, will explain why
his store, already so well-known for
food justice, has gone to the trouble
to take on this certifi cation. Bring
your questions.
Presented by Elizabeth
Henderson, NOFA-NY and
Agricultural Justice Project; Joe
Romano, GreenStar Natural Foods
Co-OpSaturday 8:00–9:15am
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A GARDEN IN EVERY SCHOOL: A Scalable Model for Four-Season School Gardens
Learn how to bring academics
and healthy eating together in pub-
lic schools! Explore how to connect
schools with local farms, and dis-
cuss how local food distributors
play a key role in getting more lo-
cal fresh food into school cafete-
rias. Th is workshop will cover the
in’s and out’s of creating four-sea-
son school gardens that last, bring-
ing farmers into the classroom and
classrooms out to the farms. Partic-
ipants will have time to ask ques-
tions relevant to their own projects
as well as leave with some key re-
sources for starting your own Farm
to School program.
Presented by Ava Bynum,
Hudson Valley SeedSaturday 9:30–10:45am
BUILDING OUR ORGANIC POLICY VOICE
Obtuse policy initiatives put
through in far-off seats of pow-
er can end up dictating how farm-
ers farm and eaters eat. Building
NOFA’s grassroots policy capacity
is a key feature of organic advoca-
cy—but it requires eff ective NOFA
member participation. With a focus
on current policy issues like food
safety and GMO labeling, this in-
teractive workshop details how to
register your opinion to infl uence
decision makers and our fellow
citizens.
Presented by Steve Gilman,
NOFA Interstate Policy CoordinatorSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
CAMPAIGN TO LABEL GMOS IN NEW YORK STATE!
After making sure participants
are up to speed on GMOs and cam-
paigns to label them, we will focus
on our action plan for passing leg-
islation in New York State in 2015.
Th is is the year to win! Help us fi g-
ure out how to activate as many
NOFA members as possible along
with our friends, customers and al-
lies. Th is is a hands-on workshop.
Presented by Elizabeth
Henderson, NOFA-NY and
Agricultural Justice ProjectSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
36 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
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WHY WE MUST STOP FRACKING IN NEW YORK
Fracking poses serious risks to
our health, our drinking water, and
our food system. In this workshop
we will not only highlight the dan-
gers of fracking but also address
what we can do to keep fracking
out. Working together, we can win,
even against the behemoth that is
the oil and gas industry. We’ve kept
fracking out so far, now it’s time to
ban it across the state!
Presented by Alex Beauchamp,
Food and Water WatchSunday 8:00–9:15am
NOFA-NY’S FARMER’S PLEDGE FORUM
Th e Farmer’s Pledge was created
by the NOFA-NY Board and mem-
ber-farmers in 2002 as a means for
farmers to describe their sustain-
able growing practices to the con-
sumer. Each year, farmers are asked
to evaluate the stated principles
and make recommendations to the
Pledge. If you’re interested in learn-
ing more about this program and
how it might benefi t your farm, or
if you’re already a Farmer’s Pledge
farm and would like to contribute
to the program’s evolution, join us
for this annual workshop on our
Farmer’s Pledge program.
Presented by Sondra Gjersoe,
NOFA-NYSunday 9:45–11:00am
37Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
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CITY OF FLOWS: Human-Hydrosphere Relationships in the Resilient Urban Ecosystem
In this workshop, we’ll explore ways that it’s possible to form mutually
benefi cial relationships between humans and the hydrosphere in the ur-
ban ecosystem. Looking at hydrological processes in cities from the per-
spective of preventing and mitigating combined sewage overfl ows, topics
will include: rainwater harvesting, asphalt removal and pervious/impervi-
ous covers, micro-scale green roofs, stream daylighting, DIY water reme-
diation (fl oating island restorers, oyster restoration), sustainable urban
fi sheries, constructed wetlands, duck-a-poop-a-ponics. Emphasis is put on
designs and systems that are simple and aff ordable and that result in si-
multaneously meeting human needs and increasing ecosystem health.
Presented by Scott Kellogg, Radix Urban Sustainability CenterFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
MYCOREMEDIATION OF CONTAMINATED SOIL AND WATER
Many species of edible fungi sweat powerful enzymes into the environ-
ment. Th ese enzymes are capable of molecular disassembly of complex
molecules such as hydrocarbons, aromatic chlorinated compounds, and
pesticides. Mushrooms native to this area of the U.S. are also well adapted
to fi lter, stun and destroy pathogenic bacteria that accompany failing sep-
tic systems, manure holding ponds, and even pet waste runoff . Learn how
these mushrooms perform these miraculous tasks and how to develop a
living barrier or fi ltration system that is customized to fi t your needs. Our
discussion will focus on biomass expansion, site engineering, and species
of mushrooms that can be used for mycoremediation projects and brown-
fi eld to greenfi eld conversion planning.
Presented by Tradd Cotter, Mushroom MountainFriday 1:15–4:30pm
38 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
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BREAKING GROUND IN VACANT LOTS
Th is workshop will provide a
practical framework for gaining ac-
cess to and preparing urban lots for
agricultural use. Participants will
learn how to research the feasibil-
ity of farming vacant lots, how to
identify and resolve soil issues, and
how to leverage and sustain com-
munity partnerships to ensure pro-
longed success. Using case studies
and Dan’s personal experiences as
farm manager at Grow Hartford,
participants will leave the work-
shop with a practical framework to
prepare any vacant lot for agricul-
tural production and learn that no
land is unworkable.
Presented by Dan Gregory,
Grow HartfordSaturday 8:00–9:15am
URBAN MICROLIVESTOCK: Keeping Chickens, Ducks, Pigeons and Rabbits in the City
In this workshop we’ll discuss the
many issues—ecological, econom-
ic, and social—related to raising
small birds and animals in urban
environments. Topics will include
species and breed choices, build-
ing a coop, urban predators, chick-
ens and lead safety, legal concerns,
keeping neighbors happy, integra-
tion with compost systems, and ed-
ucational possibilities. Participants
should come away with enough in-
formation to begin raising microl-
ivestock themselves in small spaces.
Presented by Scott Kellogg,
Radix Ecological Sustainability
CenterSaturday 9:30–10:45am
URBAN MUSHROOM CULTIVATION
Get inspired by rooftop, patio,
and indoor techniques for cultivat-
ing mushrooms in and around cit-
ies where space and resources are
thought of as obstacles. Th is work-
shop will help you break the mold
and explore ways to successfully cul-
tivate in small spaces, using grow-
ing materials commonly found or
used or recycled from kitchen and
home waste, converting it into ed-
ible mushrooms for you and your
neighbors! Ideas will incorporate re-
cycling, composting, hydroponic de-
signs, and intercropping with plants.
Presented by Tradd Cotter,
Mushroom MountainSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
39Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
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URBAN FARMING: Managing Risks and Increasing Profi ts
Urban farmers face many chal-
lenges that stand in the way of com-
mercial success. Th is workshop will
focus on strategies for overcoming
barriers that commonly aff ect ur-
ban farmers. It will provide infor-
mation particular to whole-farm
and business planning, market di-
versifi cation, and intensive crop
production techniques as a means
of lowering risks and increasing
farm revenue.
Presented by Andy Pressman,
National Center for Appropriate
Technology, Foggy Hill FarmSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
GROWING CARIBBEAN SPECIALTY CROPS FOR URBAN MARKETS
Over the past 15 years the grow-
ers of the East New York Farms!
Project have established a mar-
ket for specialty crops that match-
es the diversity of their Brooklyn
neighborhood. Th rough seed-sav-
ing, customer surveys, DEC and
SARE grant-funded farm research
on crops like bitter melon, dasheen,
pigeon peas and culantro, they
have been able to make selections
that meet customer demand. Th is
workshop will cover what they’ve
learned about growing and market-
ing these unique crops from around
the world.
Presented by Deborah Greig
and Shella Hair, East New York
Farms!Sunday 8:00–9:15am
VEGETABLE PESTS AND DISEASES IN URBAN AREAS
Management recommendations
for vegetable pests and diseases
are often aimed at rural, not urban,
growers. When developing pest
management strategies for urban
areas, the eff ects of limited land,
unique microclimates, pollution,
and other factors unique to urban
areas must be considered. Focusing
on common insect pests and diseas-
es, growers will leave with a strong
understanding of eff ective pest
management strategies for vegeta-
ble growing in urban areas.
Presented by Sara Rostampour,
Urban Farm ResearcherSunday 9:45–11:00am
40 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
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SIX-FIGURE FARMING FOR SMALL PLOTSLearn essential tools and tech-
niques for successful market gar-
dening from Jean-Martin Fortier,
one of Canada’s most recognized
and infl uential organic growers. He
is the author of Th e Market Garden-
er in which he shares in detail the
techniques, tools and appropriate
technology that makes his 1.5 acre
of permanent beds gross him more
than $100,000/acre. Th is workshop
will give you in-depth instruction
about how adopting intensive meth-
ods of production can lead to the
optimization of a cropping system
allowing for farming with hand tools to be productive and profi table.
Presented by Jean-Martin Fortier, Les Jardins de la GrelinetteFriday 9:00am–12:15pm
INTERMEDIATE GARLIC PRODUCTIONSpend an afternoon focused on more advanced techniques to deliver a
consistently high-quality garlic crop, including cover cropping plans, fer-
tility management, weed control techniques, post-harvest handling, and
seed selection. Information will be based on research results, on-farm tri-
als and experience, and audience participation.
Presented by Ed Fraser, Fraser’s Garlic Farm; Crystal Stewart,
Cornell Cooperative ExtensionFriday 1:15–4:30pm
FOUR SEASON FORWARD: Th e Latest Innovations in Four-Season Vegetable Production
Join Clara Coleman and learn the
latest innovations in year-round
four-season vegetable production
for the small-scale farm. Topics in-
clude greenhouse/high tunnel de-
signs (including movable tunnels),
inner covers, temperature limits,
best crop scheduling practices in-
cluding sowing dates, crop variety
selection to minimize using sup-
plemental heat, irrigation methods,
specialized tools and overall winter
growing techniques.
Presented by Clara Coleman,
Four-Season Farm ConsultingSaturday 8:00–9:15am
41Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
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ORGANIC SWEET CORNSweet corn is an important part of
the CSA share. Good sweet corn cre-
ates customer loyalty and increases
retention of CSA membership. Jean-
Paul Courtens and John Gill will
describe their method of growing
sweet corn organically, what equip-
ment is used, how to eff ectively con-
trol weeds and insects, and how to
obtain a good yield. Th ey will share
an enterprise budget based on the
method of growing organic sweet
corn at Roxbury Farm.
Presented by Jean-Paul
Courtens, Roxbury Farm; John
Gill, Gill Farm and Hudson Valley
Farm HubSaturday 9:30–10:45am
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL FOR PLANT DISEASE MANAGEMENT: Understanding the Options and Th eir Eff ectiveness
Th is workshop will review plant
disease management options for or-
ganic agriculture while focusing on
application and eff ectiveness. Most
of the information provided in this
workshop will be pulled from re-
search studies, though anecdotal
successes and failures from grow-
ers will also be provided. Lastly, in
order to fully understand plant dis-
ease suppression, the mechanisms
associated with suppression will be
reviewed as well.
Presented by Rick Carr, Rodale
InstituteSaturday 1:30–2:45pm
SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT AT ROXBURY FARM
Jean-Paul and Jody will describe
how they manage soil health at
Roxbury Farm. Th ey will cover the
diff erent techniques that are em-
ployed to maintain and build soil
fertility on the 90 acres used to pro-
duce vegetables. While soil man-
agement of the grassland will be
touched upon, this workshop will
mostly address soil health manage-
ment for vegetable farmers in the
context of a diversifi ed farm, em-
phasizing crop rotation, the use of
green manures, and nutrient cy-
cling and budgeting.
Presented by Jean-Paul
Courtens and Jody Bolluyt,
Roxbury FarmSaturday 3:00–4:15pm
42 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
PROFITABLE CROPS IN HIGH TUNNELS THROUGH GOOD SOIL MANAGEMENT
Th e Arnolds will review the cur-
rent plantings in their three 34’
by 144’ high tunnels, then teach
details of what soil management
techniques are used on Pleas-
ant Valley Farm to grow high val-
ue crops throughout the winter for
weekly sales in unheated high tun-
nels. Soil tests, amendments, till-
age, bed prep and biologicals will
be discussed which show how they
achieve high yields per square foot
in their French Intensive system of
winter production of greens such
as salad mix, Salanova lettuce, aru-
gula, Asian Greens, swiss chard,
and kale. (Don’t miss your chance to
attend the pre-conference fi eld day
and tour of Pleasant Valley Farm on
Th ursday, January 22nd! See page 8
for more details.)
Presented by Sandy and Paul
Arnold, Pleasant Valley FarmSunday 8:00–9:15am
SEASON EXTENSION OPTIONS FOR YOUR FARM
Th is workshop will focus on the
use of high tunnels, hoop houses,
and other structures to extend the
growing season. Topics that will be
addressed include: methods of sea-
son extension, design and installa-
tion options, placement and sight
considerations, and the economics
of high tunnel production. Farms
that have incorporated high tun-
nel production into their businesses
will be highlighted. Come and learn
about the season extension options
for your farm.
Presented by Chris Lent,
National Center for Appropriate
Technology (NCAT)Sunday 9:45–11:00am
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V E G E T A B L E W O R K S H O P SV E G E T A B L E W O R K S H O P S
Win a High TunnelWith so much great season
extension education at this
year’s conference, why not try
your luck in our drawing to win
the 14-foot modular movable
high tunnel being built during
Saturday afternoon’s workshop
with Clara Coleman and Adam
Lemiux? Attend the NOFA-NY
Annual Meeting (Saturday,
11:00am–12:15pm) and be en-
tered to win all you need to set
up your own structure.
43Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
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C H I L D R E N ' S C O N F E R E N C E & C H I L D C A R EC H I L D R E N ' S C O N F E R E N C E & C H I L D C A R E
Each year we encourage attendees to bring their children ages
6–12 to attend our Children’s Conference.
Our session leaders are farmers, permaculturalists, urban home-
steaders, students focused on environmental and food studies, art-
ists, musicians and educators. Space is limited and pre-registration is required!
Check out this year’s
lineup of activities.
FRIDAYFRIDAYROOT ENERGY
Connect with the energy of
animals and plants that depend
on the soil for their lives and
growth. Th rough movement
experience how trees, worms,
small plants, seeds, animals
and birds experience the world.
Led by Sarah van Leer and
Jennifer Kotary
Parents will need to pick up their
children promptly at 12:15pm; no
children’s programming or childcare
will be off ered during lunch.
BEES AND BATIKHere’s the buzz: we’ll extract
honey from honeycomb. Using
beeswax, we’ll create a batik
banner for the children’s pro-
gram. We’ll learn about keeping
honeybees, and make a sweet
treat.
Led by Karen Kerney,
Azuré Keahi and Christian
Grigoraskos
44 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
C H I L D R E N ' S C O N F E R E N C E & C H I L D C A R EC H I L D R E N ' S C O N F E R E N C E & C H I L D C A R E
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STORYTELLING THROUGH ART AND MUSIC
Stretch your imagination by
learning to tell stories in drawings
and song.
Led by Cathy Winter and Azuré
Keahi
PRINTMAKING FROM NATURE
Using root vegetables and fab-
ric ink, we’ll make special prints on
fabric to take home.
Led by Madeleine Welsch and
Christian Grigoraskos
BUCKWHEAT PANCAKES, FROM GRAIN TO TABLE
We’ll hand grind locally grown
buckwheat, mix up some batter,
heat up the griddle, and have a
feast.
Led by Amy Halloran and
Howard Stoner
SUNDAYSUNDAY
SATURDAYSATURDAY ADVENTURE IN LISTENINGBundle up in warm clothes for
this amazing adventure in tracking
and deep listening.
Led by Connor Stedman and
Laura Mindlin
ROOT PEOPLEUsing roots and fruits to create
imaginary beings, we’ll play with
our food and eat delicious snacks.
Led by Madeleine Welsch and
Laura Mindlin
RADICAL MOVEMENTWe’ll stretch ourselves in every
direction as we get physical with
nature themed games.
Led by Jewels O’Brien and Alex
Briggs
MYCELLIUM RUNNING!Learn about the wonderful world
of fungi through games and tast-
ing. We’ll inoculate straw so we can
grow oyster mushrooms at home.
Led by Alex Briggs and
Jennifer Kotary
THE ART OF COMPOSTMaking compost is a great way to
use waste and create soil. We’ll use
vegetable waste from our program
to start that process.
Led by John Inman and Jewels
O’Brien
Parents will need to pick up their
children promptly at 11:15am; no
children’s programming or childcare
will be off ered during lunch.
45Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
C H I L D R E N ' S C O N F E R E N C E & C H I L D C A R EC H I L D R E N ' S C O N F E R E N C E & C H I L D C A R E
CHILDCAREChild care will be available for youth ages 3–5 and includes many ac-
tivities to keep your young ones engaged and inspired. Th e childcare
program will be led by Linda Stallard, an experienced teacher and af-
terschool leader at the Saratoga Waldorf Schools since 1987. Each day
will include a walk outside and fun inside with crafts and activities.
Children must bring warm outside clothes (boots, snow pants, jackets,
hats, mittens, etc., and an extra change of clothes). Pre-registration is required, and no childcare services will be off ered during lunch.
Parents should plan to pick up their children promptly after the morn-
ing sessions end, and then again following the afternoon’s last work-
shop. Childcare is located onsite at the Saratoga Hilton.
Childcare ScheduleFriday: 8:45am–12:15pm and 1:15–4:30pm
Saturday: 7:50am–12:15pm and 1:15–5:45pm
Sunday: 7:50am–11:15am
CLOSING AND CLEANUP: Saying Farewell Th rough Song, Story and Art
One last chance to fi nd and fi nish
our artwork while we sing our fare-
wells to new and old friends.
Led by Rebekah Rice and Cathy Winter
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Parents will need to pick up their children promptly at 12:15pm; no children’s programming or childcare will be off ered during lunch.
46 For the most current information, including presenter and workshop updates and additions, see www.nofanyconference.org
HOW TO GET THERETh e Conference is held at Th e Saratoga Hilton & City Center534 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
888-866-3591 • 518-584-4000 • www.thesaratogahotel.com
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotel rooms at the Saratoga Hilton are available at a rate of $100/night, based on double occupancy. To receive this discounted rate, you must identify yourself as a NOFA-NY Conference Attendee. To make a reservation, please visit the Winter Conference Hotel Reservation site at https://resweb.passkey.com/go/2015NOFA or call the Hilton Reservations Department at 888-866-3596. Rooms go quickly!
See the conference website for more details on area accommodations and Saratoga Springs activities.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATIONAir: Albany International Airport (ALB)
Train: Amtrak off ers direct service to Saratoga Springs. Use convention code X24U-914 when you call Amtrak at 1-800-872-7245 or use www.amtrak.com to access a 10% fare discount, valid for travel 1/19/15–1/28/15.
Bus: Greyhound, Adirondack Trailways and Pine Hill Trailways service Saratoga Springs.
SAVE GAS & MONEYShare a Ride!
Are you concerned about carbon emissions and/or interested in saving a
few bucks? Share a ride! We have set up a page on RideBuzz.org so that you can
arrange your own ride (and roommate) shares. Go to http://tinyurl.com/WC2015rideshare to arrange your own ride.
T R A V E L & A C C O M M O D A T I O N ST R A V E L & A C C O M M O D A T I O N S
47Early Bird Registration Discount ends December 12th | Pre-Registration ends January 16th
Walk-in Registration Price in eff ect during conference!
THANKS TO OUR THANKS TO OUR 20152015 WINTER CONFERENCE SPONSORSWINTER CONFERENCE SPONSORSPATRON OF ORGANICSPATRON OF ORGANICS
PLATINUMPLATINUM
GOLDGOLD
SILVERSILVER
Downto EarthFARMERS MARKETS- formerly Community Markets
An employee-owned company
United States Department of AgricultureRisk Management Agency
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Deep GrassDeep GrassNurseryNursery
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