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Have you been interested in learning about different types of Organic Systems Plans (OSPs) and how to use them to build on-farm resilience? Or wonder how you might be able to increase your potential for producing added value? Join Foxtrot Farm’s Abby Ferla in discussing their process of planning their fields for the year. From creating pollinator habitat, storing and sinking water & limiting erosion, to planting climate resilient crops, Foxtrot has been testing it out – all in a certified organic manner.

Our field tour will not only include an equipment demonstration for 2 types of walking tractors, well suited for small-scale organic systems, but Foxtrot is also home to a certified organic process for valued added products – right on farm, no commercial kitchen needed. Come join us for some insight into this unique and dynamic organic farm, bringing your questions and curiosity.

 

 

Schedule/Agenda:

10:00 AM – Farm & Processing Center Tour

12:00 – Equipment Demo (walking tractor and implements)

12:30 – Refreshments

1:00 Soil Health Assessment Demo

1:30 Q & A

2:00 Wrap-up

 

About :

Foxtrot Herb Farm is a six-acre certified organic farm  in Ashfield, MA that specializes in growing vibrant, high-quality botanicals and climate resilient foods. The team of three farmers grows using no-till practices that incorporate perennial and annuals, relying mostly on walking tractors and human-scale tools for most farm tasks. Since its inception, the farm has focussed on building soil health in what were previously degraded hay fields, reducing the use of off-farm inputs, and increasing climate resilience— growing botanicals is a big part of working towards these goals. In 2022, they received a Climate SMART grant from MDAR to plant four acres of elderberry, which should be in full production in 2025-2026 (value added products in the works!). They distribute fresh plants through a CSA, preorder program, and PYO and dried herbs primarily through preorders and online markets. In addition to drying herbs in bulk, they also blend into a line of certified organic herbal teas.

 

About the Instructors:

Since her first apprenticeship in 2012, Abby (she/her) has worked on small veggie farms and orchards from Maine to New Mexico. She envisions agricultural systems that are resilient, ecologically-sound, socially-just, and integral to their communities and is always looking for ways in which farmers can better collaborate. She was a 2021 SARE Climate Adaptation Fellow. 

 

About the Project:

This event is sponsored by the Transition to Organic Partnership Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and co-sponsored by NOFA/Mass. 

If you are interested in organic certification or mentorship opportunities, please visit www.organictransition.org 

 

Accessibility:

Foxtrot Farm is located at the top of a large hill, about a quarter mile walk. If a participant’s mobility is limited, driving up the hill is an option. You are welcome to inform us of any other accessibility needs or preferences including sight, hearing, scents or language.

Refund/Inclement Weather Policy:

For information on our refund and inclement weather policy, click here. 

Capacity:

Capacity for this event is limited to 25 people. Register ahead of time to secure your space! 

 

 

Questions?

Email [email protected]