37th Annual NOFA/Mass Winter Conference
Worcester State University Worcester, MA, United StatesWith new climate challenges to tackle, join us at the start of the year to share knowledge and celebrate the joys in creating resilient and thriving regional food systems. Delve into a wide variety of workshops and discussions for organic growers at any scale!
Sowing Connections: NOFA/Mass and Partner Programs for Farmers
Worcester State University Worcester, MA, United StatesDid you know that NOFA/Mass and our network of partner organizations have myriad ways to support your farm? Come learn from project managers and fellow farmers about programs like the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP), and Climate-Smart Farming program. The session will start with an introduction from each of our partners to available programs, and then we’ll open the room to smaller group and one-on-one conversations with project managers and program participants about how these opportunities can fit your particular needs.
Desmitificando Certificación Para Las Granjas Orgánicas: Prácticas Orgánicas y Salud del Suelo
Worcester State University Worcester, MA, United StatesEste taller está diseñado para los agricultores orgánicos y/o otras personas interesadas en la certificación orgánica y los métodos orgánicos en pequeñas operaciones de frutas y verduras en Nueva Inglaterra. Isabel va hablar sobre la transición a certificación de la finca de Global Village, y como poco a poco estamos implementando nuevos métodos orgánicos. Este evento está patrocinado por el Programa de Asociación de Transición a lo Orgánico (TOPP), está abierto al público y forma parte de una serie más amplia con NOFA/Mass. También se llevarán a cabo futuras sesiones para discutir la certificación orgánica para los agricultores BIPOC. Consulte el sitio web de NOFA/Mass para obtener más detalles.
De-Mystifying Organics Organic Practices and Soil Health
Worcester State University Worcester, MA, United StatesThis workshop is designed for organic farmers and others interested in certification and organic methods on small fruit and vegetable operations in New England. Isabel will talk about the Global Village Farm’s transition to certified organic and how little by little, they are implementing more organic methods. This event is sponsored by the Transition t o Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), is open to the public, and a part of a larger series with NOFA/Mass. Future networking sessions will also be held to discuss organic certification for BIPOC farmers.
NOFA/Mass Annual Member Meeting – VIRTUAL and FREE
OnlineThe Annual meeting takes place every Winter Conference and is a critical part of our organization’s membership based structure. NOFA/Mass Members will hear what the organization has accomplished in the past year as well as what our policy goals are for the upcoming year. Join us online as we present a list of member benefits that you may not be aware of. On deck will be a summary of our whirlwind growth since last year and areas of development that you can help us with. We will ask the membership to vote on the 2024 slate of board members and you will hear about new opportunities to join the Board of Directors and to make a difference by learning about the various ways you can share your skills with NOFA/Mass.
Focus on Your Farm Business – 3 part workshop
Bangor Public Library 145 Harlow St., Bangor, ME, United StatesThe Business of Farming is for experienced farmers who want to analyze their current business model and use the information to improve profitability and become more efficient.
Getting Started & Financial Considerations Resources, Tips and Where to Get Assistance
OnlineFor transitioning farmers and junior generation farmers to learn the basics of farm succession planning, how to get started, and where to find support with resources, tips, financial and legal considerations, and more!
Acquiring Your Farm – free webinar series
OnlineFree online training series for new and beginning farmers preparing to access farmland in New England. This six-session training series will put you in a position to make a plan and take next steps toward getting on farmland and gaining more secure tenure. Learn how to conduct a land search, assess farm properties, identify your goals and set financial parameters, review pros and cons of different tenure methods, discover keys to successful communication, and more. This training series is organized and designed to provide a thorough introduction to the complex issues of farmland access and tenure.
Neighbor-to-Neighbor Solar Energy 101
OnlineThis free, in-person and online event will include a comprehensive overview of rooftop solar systems by a Westford Climate Action member as well as Westford residents sharing their experiences with going solar. A Q&A will follow.
Collaborative Aggregation and Marketing Workshops: Multi-farm CSA
OnlineAre you a small or mid-scale farmer interested in working with others to distribute and market your products? Are you interested in how such models can support your enterprise? Join us for a free virtual series of peer-to-peer learning workshops featuring local farmers and market coordinators.