Soil Health
Crop Production Course
OnlineReady to Start Your Own Farm or Grow Your Garden Dreams? Join our 9-week Crop Production Course and gain the practical skills and confidence you need to grow healthy food, care for the soil, and run a successful small farm or garden.
pXRF Soil Lead Screening and Microscopy Workshop: From Microscopes to Metals // Taller de Microscopía y Detección de Plomo en el Suelo Mediante pXRF: De los Microscopios a los Metales
Springfield Public Library’s Central Library’s Community Room 220 State St, Springfield, MA, United StatesJoin us for a FREE Soil Screening with interpretation for the results from American Farmland Trust’s Massachusetts Coordinated Soil Health Program team and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Along with the test results, you’ll be given a brochure for information on the pXRF tool, guidance based on your result and there will be soil health and urban agriculture staff to discuss and collect resources along with potential next steps for your growing practice. Bring a dry soil sample. For collection information, use this guide.
Soil Analysis, Carbon Sampling and Designing for Resilience / Análisis de Suelos, Muestreo de Carbono y Diseño para la Resiliencia
Tapley Court Garden 221 Bay Street, Springfield, MA, United StatesIn this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to accurately sample soils for comprehensive chemical analysis, including soil organic carbon (SOC) and nutrient profiles. We will analyze in situ the biological, physical and chemical properties of soils, including compaction, infiltration rate, soil texture and structure, surface biology, soil aggregate stability, root behavior, soil temperature and bulk density. This integrated approach provides a thorough understanding of soil health by combining quantitative data with qualitative observations. Participants will also have an opportunity to learn about Landscape Interactions’ collaboration with NOFA/Mass Food Access to transform a portion of their community garden at Tapley Court Apartments into a refugia for at-risk native bees, butterflies and moths through the incorporation of biodiverse, perennial and productive native plant communities.
Physical Vitality: Building Robust Foundations for Crop Success – iSe ofrece en español!
New Entry Sustainable Farming Project 733 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA, United StatesJoin us for an immersive journey into the fundamentals of soil health with our Physical Vitality workshop. Delve into the intricate world beneath our feet as we explore the essential components that shape soil structure and vitality. Through hands-on demonstrations and interactive activities, participants will gain a deep understanding of soil physical properties, including structure, porosity, and compaction. Equipped with tools such as penetrometers, shovels, and infiltration rings, attendees will learn how to assess and evaluate these critical aspects of soil health directly on the farm.
Soil Health Bi-Monthly Community Call
OnlineWe are excited to invite you to our bimonthly Soil Health Calls! These calls are designed to provide a platform for farmers, researchers, and experts to share their knowledge, experiences, and insights on soil health. Our aim is to create a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about improving soil health. Our calls will cover a range of topics related to soil health, including soil biology, organic matter, nutrient management, and any topic of relevance to the NOFA community and beyond. We will also have guest speakers who will share their expertise and insights on the latest developments in the field.