Soil Health
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.
TOPP: Fundamentals of Fertility Management
OnlineGood soil management is at the core of any agricultural operation. The soil provides the essential nutrients for plant performance. In this workshop, we'll discuss the differences between organic and conventional fertility management, ranging from fertilizer rate of release to crediting nutrient contributions from soil organic matter, and just how much you can rely on a microbial community to help meet fertility needs. We will also discuss how and when to collect a soil sample for soil nutrient testing, how to interpret soil test results, and the differences between a soil fertility test and a soil health test.
Unveiling the Hidden World of Soil: Virtual Microscopy & Agricultural Insights (Microbes Series)
OnlineJoin us for the first event in our Microbes series, where we kick off with an engaging virtual session that serves as the foundation for our exploration of microscopy and its role in agricultural systems. During this session, we'll delve into the fascinating world of soil biology, understanding the significance of different tools for biological assessments and their potential impact on soil health and agriculture. Learn how management practices can influence soil biology, and gain insights into the pivotal role microscopy plays in unraveling the mysteries beneath the earth's surface. We will also use this opportunity to gather pivotal information from our community to assess needs such as microscope access and training.
Postponed Growing Organically Together: A BIPOC Networking Event – Eastern MA – POSTPONED
Robbins Library 700 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, United StatesHave you been looking to dive deeper into the world of soil health, and discuss what practices make the most sense for your farm? This event is a space for BIPOC farmers to explore connections with customers, markets and soil health. Together, we’ll be exploring our strengths, needs and opportunities within our farms, including discussions on the option of organic certification. We’ll develop a more clear understanding around the intersections of our financial investments, love for farming and desire to serve our communities.
Postponed Un evento para crear redes entre agricultores BIPOC – al lado Este de Massachusetts – Pospuesta
Robbins Library 700 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, United States¿Alguna vez ha pensado en sumergirse en el mundo de la salud del suelo y conversar sobre cuáles prácticas serían mejores para su propia finca? Este evento es un espacio para agricultores BIPOC. Pueden explorar y crear conexiones con clientes, con el mercado y con la salud de la tierra. Exploraremos nuestras fortalezas, necesidades y las oportunidades de nuestras propias granjas incluyendo conversaciones sobre la posibilidad de certificarse como granja orgánica.
Enmiendas de suelo para granjas orgánicas
Online¿Ha decidido recientemente conseguir un certificado de cultivo orgánico para su granja o ha pensado en hacer este cambio? ¿O puede que ya tenga el certificado y sólo quiera un curso de actualización? Este webinario le enseñará acerca de cómo usar mejoradores de suelo desde una perspectiva basada en la salud del suelo en granjas orgánicas.
Soil Amendments for Organic Farms
OnlineHave you recently decided to transition your farm to organic certification, or are you considering making the switch? Or maybe you’re already certified organic, and just want a refresher? This webinar will discuss a soil-health based approach to using soil amendments on organic farms. We’ll review the OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) list and go over common misconceptions about restricted and listed materials. We’ll also discuss how to use various soil health assessments to determine what amendments your farm needs, and how to identify appropriate organic options:
2024 Microscopy Training
OnlineCT NOFA is offering microscopy training in 2024. Participants will view various soils and composts, looking at the different soil structures and the microbes that thrive in healthy soil. Demonstrations include how to prepare a slide for viewing, what you might find and how to evaluate your findings. Participants will be trained to analyze the following:
Postponed Agriculture in Design: a celebration of farming heritage and innovation in at-home composting – POSTPONED
80 Champney St. 80 Champney St., Groton, United StatesThis two-fold event includes both an agricultural inspired art exhibition and a creative design challenge to inspire the at-home composter.
Compost Tea: Is it right for me?
12 Randall Lane, Mattapoisett, MA 12 Randall Lane, Mattapoisett, United StatesInterested in making compost teas and extracts for a living soil? Discover efficient methods to introduce and multiply the beneficial microbes found in high quality compost into your growing spaces. Join us for a presentation and discussion on brewing techniques and how to apply them. Understand the biological needs of the soil you work with and the plants that your soil supports. Learn to assess compost and additional ”food” for the microbes within compost.