BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture - ECPv6.2.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CISA - Community Involved In Sustaining Agriculture REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231214T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231214T133000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231207T234900Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231207T235133Z UID:45300-1702557000-1702560600@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:High Tunnel Energy Efficiency Webinar DESCRIPTION:This webinar will focus on energy use and conservation in high tunnel and greenhouse production. Energy costs can be substantial in a smaller diversified production system and reducing electric bills can help the bottom line. We’ll understand energy costs and how to approach an energy assessment of your farm. We’ll then talk about energy efficient designs and materials for new structures and energy retrofits for existing structures.\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen: December 14\, 12:30-1:30PM\nWhere: Zoom\nCost: Free\, Registration Required\n\n\n\n\nAbout the presenter: Chris Lent is an Agricultural Specialist working out of Pennsylvania for the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) as part of the Northeast regional team. He operated an organic vegetable farm for ten years and worked in the fields of energy efficiency\, solar installation\, and organic farm inspection. His work at NCAT has focused on farm energy\, organic vegetable production\, local food systems\, high tunnel management\, and urban agriculture.  \nThis workshop is a partnership between the Cheshire County Conservation District (CCCD)\, the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT)\, ATTRA Sustainable Agriculture. Funding for this program is provided in part by the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture\, Markets and Food USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. USDA is an equal opportunity employer\, provider and lender. \nRegister here! URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/high-tunnel-energy-efficiency-webinar/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231212T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231212T170000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231201T202628Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231201T202628Z UID:45259-1702393200-1702400400@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Keep ’em Coming Back: Five Strategies for Retaining Loyal Customers for Your Farm DESCRIPTION:It’s more satisfying and profitable to keep your current customers happy than to chase after new customers. This interactive workshop will demonstrate five strategies for boosting customer loyalty\, including knowing your customers’ wants and needs\, providing stellar customer service\, implementing loyalty programs\, clarifying your brand\, and creating compelling communications. You’ll see examples of what successful farmers are doing to keep loyal customers and share stories about what’s working for your farm. You’ll leave with new ideas for cultivating a customer base that keeps coming back for more. \nThe presenter\, Myrna Greenfield\, is a farm and food marketing consultant at Good Egg Marketing\, a frequent speaker at conferences and events\, and a consultant with MDAR. She’s the author of the book\, Marketing Your Farm: A practical guide to attracting loyal customers and increasing sales. \nThe main presentation and discussion will last 90 minutes\, followed by 30 minutes for additional Q&A. \nDate: Tuesday\, Dec 12th\, 3-5pm \nClick here to Register! \nContact: Shannon Hickey\, (781) 908-4466\, shickey@semaponline.org URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/keep-em-coming-back-five-strategies-for-retaining-loyal-customers-for-your-farm/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231207T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231207T143000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231205T183733Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231205T192520Z UID:45269-1701954000-1701959400@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:USDA's Discrimination Financial Assistance Program: Upcoming Webinar DESCRIPTION:Register here!  \nMDAR is hosting a webinar on December 7th at 1pm on USDA’s Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP) – a new program\, authorized by Section 22007(e) of the Inflation Reduction Act\, that will provide financial assistance to farmers\, ranchers and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs prior to 2021. \nThe ability to qualify to receive a portion of the $2.2 billion compensation fund is available for individuals who: \n\nExperienced discrimination\, prior to January 1\, 2021\, by the USDA in its farm lending programs\, which are currently administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA).\nAre currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm lending debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred prior to January 1\, 2021.\n\nApplications must be submitted by January 13th\, 2024. \nTo register for the webinar on December 7th at 1 PM\, please visit this webpage. \nFor translation/interpretation services\, please submit your request to Rebecca.Davidson@Mass.gov by December 4th. Requests made after December 4th will be considered but may not be possible to fill. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/usdas-discrimination-financial-assistance-program-upcoming-webinar/ CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231205T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231205T210000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231127T184618Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231127T184618Z UID:45175-1701804600-1701810000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Fantastic Fungi movie screening and panel discussion DESCRIPTION:Photo from Fantastic Fungi website \n\nJoin CISA for a movie screening and panel discussion of Fantastic Fungi! \n\n\nTuesday\, December 5th at 7:30pm \n\n\n\n\n\nBuy tickets here! https://tinyurl.com/3z6xk989\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPresented in partnership with Amherst Cinema. \nFeaturing a post-screening panel discussion with: \n\nJulia Coffey\, Mycoterra Farm\nHunter Linscott\, Livingstone Mycology\nPaul Lagrèze\, New England Wild Edibles\nModerator: Claire Morenon\, CISA\n\n\nFANTASTIC FUNGI is a vivid journey into the mysterious subterranean world of mycelium and its fruit—the mushroom. A story that begins 3.5 billion years ago\, fungi makes the soil that supports life\, connecting vast systems of roots from plants and trees all over the planet. \nThrough the eyes of renowned scientists and mycologists like Paul Stamets\, best-selling authors Michael Pollan\, Eugenia Bone\, Andrew Weil\, and others\, we experience the power\, beauty\, and complexity of the fungi kingdom. \nNarrated by Brie Larson\, the 2019 film is an astonishing blueprint for how the mycelium network connects all humanity and the natural world\, offering solutions to some of our most pressing medical\, therapeutic\, and environmental challenges. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/fantastic-fungi-movie-screening-and-panel-discussion/ LOCATION:Amherst Cinema\, 28 Amity Street\, Amherst CATEGORIES:Climate Events,CISA Events,Community Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231202T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231202T153000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231113T145237Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231113T145237Z UID:45076-1701525600-1701531000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Opportunistic Gardening Tactics in the Time of Climate Chaos DESCRIPTION:Homestead\, mentor\, and heirloom seed saver\, Daniel Botkin\, will tell stories and show slides illustrating key strategies and tactics which have served him for 28 years on his five acre\, hand-powered food forest in Gill\, MA. \nDaniel practices a robust “no-till”\, mulch-centric style of four season farming featuring a diversity of seasonal annuals and perennials. Daniel’s work translates permaculture principles into practical strategies for resiliency in an age of climate chaos. \nSaturday\, December 2nd\, 2:00pm \nSunderland Public Library\, 20 School Street\, Sunderland\, MA \nContact: (413) 665 2642\, www.sunderlandpubliclibrary.org URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/opportunistic-gardening-tactics-in-the-time-of-climate-chaos/ LOCATION:Sunderland Public Library\, 20 School Street\, Sunderland CATEGORIES:Community Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231202T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231202T120000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231115T155503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231116T162911Z UID:45088-1701511200-1701518400@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Making Food Fun with Quabbin Harvest DESCRIPTION:Making Food Fun comes to the Quabbin region! \nCISA and Quabbin Harvest team up with local farms to celebrate the late harvest season in Orange. The morning will be full of ways to experience local food and local farms\, within a fun\, community setting. \nTaste apples and cider from Pine Hill Orchard. Test cheeses from Thomas Farm and Round Table Farm. Learn and sample new recipes with a cooking demo from Nalini Goordial. Meet the farmers from Crooked Trail Farm\, then say hello to Keith the pig from Coolidge Hill Farm. Get moving with a movement-based obstacle course from The Dance Studio. Our list continues to grow\, so stop by to see who’s there! \nThis family event is free and open to the public at the Quabbin Harvest Co-op\, 12 N Main St\, Orange\, on Saturday\, December 2nd from 10am-12pm—rain or shine! Kids of all ages are welcome! Parent resources and more! URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/making-food-fun-with-quabbin-harvest/ CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.buylocalfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/CISA-website-MFF-Quabbin-Harvest-2023-850-x-420-px.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231201T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231201T210000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231129T183703Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231130T171151Z UID:45217-1701457200-1701464400@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:CISA Fundraiser at The Ashfield Lakehouse DESCRIPTION:Join us this Friday\, December 1st at 7:00 pm for an incredible evening at The Ashfield Lakehouse! \nThe kitchen is open 5:00-9:00 pm for great food. Enjoy great company\, and support CISA! \nGet ready to immerse yourself in stories and discussions with our fabulous local farmers: Conway Hart Farm\, Riverland Farm\, Foxtrot Farm\, and Good Bunch Farm! \nPlus\, don’t miss the chance to snag a cute t-shirt or sweatshirt designed by local artist\, Emma Kohlmann. With each purchase\, you’ll be supporting CISA’s Growing Resilience campaign. \nThis event is free and open to the public. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/cisa-fundraiser-at-the-ashfield-lakehouse/ LOCATION:The Ashfield Lakehouse\, 141 Buckland Road\, Ashfield\, MA\, United States CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.buylocalfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Growing-resilance-flyer2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231129T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231129T130000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230804T013440Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231023T152321Z UID:44090-1701248400-1701262800@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Successful Value-Added Food Product Development for Farm and New Food Businesses: Managing Food Quality and Safety 2023 DESCRIPTION:Are you a farmer diversifying into value-added production or an entrepreneur developing new and exciting products? Do you have questions about how to integrate food safety and quality into the development of a value-added food product? If so\, this is the program for you! \nThis course will address the key attributes of formulating a product from concept to commercialization including food safety and scaling up considerations. You will learn about the food science basics\, key elements required for product labeling\, and an overview of key regulatory requirements for small and emerging food businesses\, such as entrepreneurs and local food processors.  \nRegistration Fee: This program\, including office hours and virtual sessions\, is $50. We do not want finances to be a barrier to attendance so CISA offers sliding scale pricing to ensure anyone can attend. \nRegistration Deadline: Tuesday\, November 21\, 2023 \nClick here for more information. \nPlease contact Zoraia de Jesus Barros\, 413-665-7100 ext. 15\, with any questions regarding the event or sliding scale pricing. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/food-safety-2023/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T193000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230922T215352Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230922T215352Z UID:44714-1700071200-1700076600@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Running a Food Business from your Home / Dirigiendo un negocio de alimentos desde tu casa DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nYes\, you can run a food business out of your own home kitchen! Bri Dupras from Franklin Regional Council of Governments will cover the MA cottage industry food laws\, and talk about how to get your home kitchen certified. We’ll also cover how you can sell foods you make at home and which permits you need. \n\nWednesday November 15th\, 6-7:30\nLocation: remote (Zoom)\nRegister by November 8 here\n\nThis workshop is part of the Essential Skills for Starting\, Growing and Managing a Food Business Fall Series. Click here for more information.  \nQuestions or requesting interpretation? Contact Caitlin Marquis\, (413) 588-5562. \n\nDirigiendo un negocio de alimentos desde tu casa\n¡Registrar aquí! \nSí\, ¡puede administrar un negocio de alimentos desde la cocina de su propia casa! Bri Dupras del Consejo Regional de Gobiernos de Franklin cubrirá las leyes alimentarias de la industria artesanal de Massachusetts y hablará sobre cómo obtener la certificación de la cocina de su hogar. También cubriremos cómo puede vender alimentos que prepara en casa y qué permisos necesita. \n\n15 de noviembre 6-7:30pm\nLugar: Zoom\nRegístrese antes de 8 noviembre aquí \n\nHaga clic aquí para más información sobre la serie de talleres Habilidades esenciales para crear\, desarrollar y manejar una empresa de alimentos.  \n¿Preguntas o solicitar interpretación? Póngase en contacto con Caitlin Marquis\, cmarquis@collaborative.org o (413) 588-5562. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/running-a-food-business-from-your-home-dirigiendo-un-negocio-de-alimentos-desde-tu-casa/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events,Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T130000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230911T205633Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230911T205633Z UID:44578-1700049600-1700053200@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Health Connector for Business: Affordable\, Flexible Health Insurance DESCRIPTION:This information session will focus on health insurance options available to small employers and their employees through Health Connector for Business at www.MAhealthconnector.org/business. We’ll also review available options for sole proprietors and owner-only groups who do not yet have the employees to qualify for a small group plan through the Health Connector for Business. \nThe agenda includes: \n\nCoverage options for small employers through Health Connector for Business\nFlexible Employee Choice models\nExclusive cost-saving benefits through the Health Connector for Business\, such as the ConnectWell rebate program and the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit\nHealth insurance options for sole proprietors and owner-only groups not eligible for small-group coverage\n\nWe hope you will join us for this informative and important session. Sign up and learn about the many resources offered through the Massachusetts Health Connector. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/health-connector-for-business-affordable-flexible-health-insurance/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231108T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231108T193000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230922T215511Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231017T223648Z UID:44712-1699466400-1699471800@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Making a Value-Added Food Product: The Essentials / Elaborar un producto alimenticio con valor agregado: lo esencial DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nLooking to take local produce and turn it into jam\, salsa\, or something else? This workshop is for you. Join the folks from the Massachusetts Agriculture Innovation Center and the Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center for an overview of what it takes to make a value-added food product. We’ll cover some food safety basics\, options for where to make your product\, and an overview of regulatory requirements and licensing. \n\nWednesday November 8th\, 6-7pm\nLocation: remote (Zoom)\nRegister by November 1 here\n\nThis workshop is part of the Essential Skills for Starting\, Growing and Managing a Food Business Fall Series. Click here for more information.  \nQuestions or requesting interpretation? Contact Caitlin Marquis\, (413) 588-5562. \n\nElaborar un producto alimenticio con valor agregado: lo esencial\n¡Registrar aquí! \n¿Quiere tomar productos locales y convertirlos en mermelada\, salsa o algo más? Este taller es para ti. Únase a la gente del Centro de Innovación Agrícola de Massachusetts y del Centro de Procesamiento de Alimentos del Oeste de Massachusetts para obtener una descripción general de lo que se necesita para elaborar un producto alimenticio con valor agregado. Cubriremos algunos conceptos básicos de seguridad alimentaria\, opciones sobre dónde fabricar su producto y una descripción general de los requisitos reglamentarios y las licencias. \n\n8 de noviembre\, 6-7pm\nLugar: Zoom\nRegístrese antes de 1 noviembre aquí \n\nHaga clic aquí para más información sobre la serie de talleres Habilidades esenciales para crear\, desarrollar y manejar una empresa de alimentos.  \n¿Preguntas o solicitar interpretación? Póngase en contacto con Caitlin Marquis\, cmarquis@collaborative.org o (413) 588-5562. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/making-a-value-added-food-product-the-essentials-elaborar-un-producto-alimenticio-con-valor-agregado-lo-esencial/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231105T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231105T170000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231018T172500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231018T172500Z UID:44944-1699196400-1699203600@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Indigenous Voices of the Valley: Film Screening by the Nolembeka Project DESCRIPTION:Nolumbeka Project presents: “Indigenous Voices from the Connecticut River Valley of Massachusetts: A 10-part film series.” Part of the Indigenous Voices of the Valley – Two Part Series collection\, Hosted by Grow Food Northampton. More information here. \n\nDate: Sunday\, November 5 · 3 – 5pm\nLocation: Sanctuary\, 3rd floor of Thornes Marketplace in Northampton\, 150 Main Street Northampton\, MA 01060\n80 minute film screening and discussion.\nFree! URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/indigenous-voices-of-the-valley-film-screening-by-the-nolembeka-project/ LOCATION:Sanctuary\, 150 Main Street\, Northampton\, MA\, 01060\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T160000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231018T171638Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231018T171947Z UID:44941-1699110000-1699113600@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Indigenous Health and Food Sovereignty DESCRIPTION:Dr. Jus Crea Giammarino of Native Root Medicine presents on “Indigenous Health and Food Sovereignty.” Part of the Indigenous Voices of the Valley – Two Part Series collection. More information here.  \n\nLocation: Grow Food Northampton Organic Community Garden\, 140 Meadow Street Northampton\, MA 01062\nDate: Saturday\, November 4 · 3 – 4pm EDT\nBring a chair or blanket to sit on.\nSuggested donation $5-$50 to cover the cost of the speaker.\n\nAbout Dr. Jus Crea Giammarino: \nRaised with her Penobscot culture and Native American spiritual practices\, Dr. Jus Crea Giammarino realized the healing powers of nature at a young age. She received a Certificate in Herbal Therapeutics and attended the Rocky Mountain Center for Botanical Studies. She received a Bachelors of Science from UMass\, Amherst in ‘Ethnobotany and Holistic Health’\, graduating magna cum laude from the Honors College. Here she also received a Certificate in Native American Studies as well as completing premedical coursework. She went on to receive a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the University of Bridgeport\, College of Naturopathic Medicine graduating at the top of her class earning the award for ‘Academic Excellence in Naturopathic Medicine’. She completed an advanced externship in pediatrics\, women’s health\, and family medicine as well as receiving advanced training in Sankaran Homeopathy. She became an Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist at the Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Hospital in Bronx\, NY and a certified practitioner in WTS Therapy. \nJus Crea has lectured extensively on Native American Herbology and leads ethnobotanical tours. She teaches Native American cultures\, histories and traditions. Previously she taught Nutrition at Springfield College and was a primary care physician in Brattleboro\, VT. Currently Dr. Giammarino practices Naturopathic Medicine in Springfield\, MA treating people of all ages. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/indigenous-health-and-food-sovereignty/ LOCATION:Grow Food Northampton\, 140 Meadow Street\, Northampton\, MA\, 01062\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231101T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231101T193000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230825T224503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T224503Z UID:44446-1698861600-1698867000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Getting Your Farm Funded: Understanding FACT's Fund a Farmer Grants DESCRIPTION:Looking for funding that can help talk your farm to the next humane farming level? One that’s easy to apply for and report on? Look no further FACT’s Fund-a-Farmer grant program is the perfect way yo improve the lives of the livestock on your farm. In this session former FACT Humane Farming Director\, Larissa McKenna and FACT’s Humane Farming Manager\, Samantha Gasson will be joined by the fabulous Kara Shannon\, ASPCA’s Director of Farm Animal Welfare Policy\, Response and Engagement (a major underwriter of FACT’s Fund-a-Farmer grants) to discuss the Fund-a-Farmer grant process and application tidbits. If you’re planning on applying this year you won’t want to miss this informative session. \nDate: November 1\, 6pm  \nRegister Here URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/getting-your-farm-funded-understanding-facts-fund-a-farmer-grants/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231029T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231029T150000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231018T140405Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231027T132521Z UID:44915-1698577200-1698591600@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:CISA's Growing Resilience Day at Mike's Maze - CANCELED DESCRIPTION:This event is canceled due to expected rain. We hope to see you next year at Mike’s Maze! URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/cisas-growing-resilience-day-at-mikes-maze/ LOCATION:Mike’s Maze\, 23 South Main Street\, Sunderland\, 01375\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T143000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230825T223901Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T223901Z UID:44444-1698498000-1698503400@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:From the Cell to the Rail: The science of meat quality and yield DESCRIPTION:Regardless of species\, proper management and nutrition are critical to maximizing the genetic potential of your animals. In this presentation\, Jennifer Martin with Colorado State will explore the scientific underpinnings of muscle\, fat\, and bone development and the impacts of management and nutrition on the quality and yield of livestock species. \nDate: October 28\, 1pm  \nRegister Here URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/from-the-cell-to-the-rail-the-science-of-meat-quality-and-yield/ LOCATION:Remote (Free) CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231026T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231026T183000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231012T152646Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231012T153633Z UID:44887-1698339600-1698345000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Mycoterra Farm Tour DESCRIPTION:Do you have a passion for locally grown mushrooms? Come learn about the incredible process of growing mushrooms at Mycoterra Farm! \nJulia Coffey\, owner of Mycoterra Farm\, will share insights about running a mushroom farm that produces 3\,000 pounds of shiitake\, lion’s mane\, oyster mushrooms and more every year! \nThis event is offered on a sliding scale basis to benefit CISA’s Growing Resilience campaign.\nSpace is limited. Register here to save your spot. \nWhen you donate $25 or more\, you’ll receive a free kit to grow your own mushrooms at home! \nQuestions? Contact Kate Hennessey (413) 665-7100 URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/mycoterra-farm-tour/ LOCATION:Mycoterra Farm\, 75 Stillwater Road\, South Deerfield\, MA\, 01373\, United States CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231026T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231026T133000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20231017T204121Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231017T204121Z UID:44911-1698321600-1698327000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Livestock Producer Grants Webinar DESCRIPTION:Got cows? We’ve got a webinar for you! The American Farmland Trust has $1.2 million dollars courtesy of NRCS RCPP to distribute to livestock farmers for projects that will improve your soil quality. There is something for everyone\, projects include but are not limited to; soil amendments\, nutrient management plans\, cover cropping\, cropland to pasture conversion\, riparian buffer plantings\, and much more! The webinar will provide an opportunity to connect with Max Breiteneicher who is drafting the required conservation plans for those who apply.  Other funding opportunities available through AFT will also be discussed. \nRegister here! \nWhen: Thursday October 26\, 2023 at Noon \nWhere: Zoom (register to receive zoom link) \nQuestions? Contact: Kristina.Smith@mass.gov URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/livestock-producer-grants-webinar/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231024T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231024T193000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230921T151523Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230922T214820Z UID:44706-1698170400-1698175800@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Developing a Business Plan/Desarrollo de un plan de negocios DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nAre you ready to turn your food business dream into a plan? Come learn about how to research\, estimate\, and pull together all the pieces of a business plan in this online workshop presented by Stevie Schafenacker\, independent farm and food business advisor. We’ll spend most of our time focusing on creating a plan that’s by you and for you\, but we’ll also talk about components of a business plan that are essential to applying for funding. \n\nOctober 24th\, 6-7:30pm \nLocation: remote (Zoom)\nRegister by October 17 here\n\nThis workshop is part of the Essential Skills for Starting\, Growing and Managing a Food Business Fall Series. Click here for more information.  \nQuestions or requesting interpretation? Contact Caitlin Marquis\, (413) 588-5562. \n\nDesarrollo de un plan de negocios\n¡Registrar aquí! \n¿Está listo para convertir su sueño de negocio de alimentos en un plan? Venga a aprender cómo investigar\, estimar y reunir todas las piezas de un plan de negocios en este taller en línea presentado por Stevie Schafenacker\, asesor independiente de empresas agrícolas y alimentarias. Pasaremos la mayor parte de nuestro tiempo enfocándonos en crear un plan hecho por usted y para usted.pero también hablaremos de los componentes de un plan de negocios que son esenciales para solicitar financiación. \n\n24 de octubre\, 6-7:30pm\nLugar: Zoom\nRegístrese antes de 17 octubre aquí \n\nHaga clic aquí para más información sobre la serie de talleres Habilidades esenciales para crear\, desarrollar y manejar una empresa de alimentos.  \n¿Preguntas o solicitar interpretación? Póngase en contacto con Caitlin Marquis\, cmarquis@collaborative.org o (413) 588-5562. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/developing-a-business-plan/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231021T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231021T233000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230316T181332Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230828T014943Z UID:42736-1697882400-1697931000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Talleres Por Agricultores - Nuestras Raices DESCRIPTION:¡Nuestras Raíces está comenzando el segundo año de Nuestros Finqueros Empresas de Formación este més! En nuestro primer taller aprenderemos sobre como germinar semillas dentro de su casa. Este taller será en Marzo 25 desde las 10 – 11:30 AM en la Finca\, a 24 Jones Ferry Rd.\, Holyoke.  \nPara solicitar\, llene este formulario \nTalleres Por Agricultores (10-11:30am\, 24 Jones Ferry Rd\, Hoyoke) \n\n3/25\, 10am-11:30am – Germinar Semillas\n4/22\, 10am-11:30am – Prep. La Tierra y Plantar\n5/13\, 10am-11:30am – Compost y Fertilidad\n6/24\, 10am-11:30am – “Plagas!”\n7/22\, 10am-11:30am – Cultivos De Cobertura\n8/26\, 10am-11:30am – Negocio Agricola\n9/23\, 10am-11:30am – Cultivos Perennes\n10/21\, 10am-11:30am – Almacenar Semillas\n\nInvitamos a productores comerciales\, agricultores principiantes\, jardineros\, veteranos\, jóvenes\, y otros miembros de la comunidad a asistir a uno\, dos\, o a todos los talleres. Aquellos que asistan a todos los talleres recibirán asistencia económica para herramientas\, semillas\, alquiler de finca\, y otras necesidades de su finca\, jardín\, o empresa. \n¡Todos los talleres serán bilingües y gratis! Los participantes aprenderán sobre diferentes temas\, recibirán asistencia técnica de expertos de la Universidad de Massachusetts\, y tendrán la oportunidad de establecer conexiones y explorar recursos disponibles con los socios de Nuestras Raíces los cuales son representantes de el USDA NRCS y FSA\, Massachusetts Departamento de Recursos Agricultura\, y otros agricultores y productores locales. \nPara solicitar\, llene este formulario o visite nuestra oficina en el 329 Main St.\, Holyoke (abierto a las 9am – 5pm\, Lunes-Viernes). Para preguntas\, contacte a Elena Woodworth a ewoodworth@nuestras-raices.org o (413) 640-9539. \n\n\n\nNuestras Raíces is launching our second year of the Nuestros Finqueros Training Enterprises this month! Our first workshop\, where we will learn about seed starting indoors\, will take place on March 25th from 10 – 11:30 AM at la Finca on 24 Jones Ferry Rd.\, Holyoke.  \nRegister here! \nWorkshops (10-11:30am\, 24 Jones Ferry Rd\, Hoyoke): \n\n3/25\, 10am-11:30am – Seed Germination\n4/22\, 10am-11:30am – Prepping Land to Plant\n5/13\, 10am-11:30am – Compost\n6/24\, 10am-11:30am – Pests\n7/22\, 10am-11:30am – Cover Cropping\n8/26\, 10am-11:30am – Agricultural Business\n9/23\, 10am-11:30am – Perennial Crops\n10/21\, 10am-11:30am – Storing Seeds\n\nWe invite commercial producers\, beginner farmers\, gardeners\, veterans\, youth\, and other interested community members to attend one\, two\, or all workshops. Those who attend all 8 workshops will receive a stipend for tools\, seeds\, farmland rent\, or other supplies needed for their farm\, garden\, or business. \nAll workshops are bilingual and free of charge! Participants will learn about a range of agricultural topics\, receive one-on-one technical assistance from UMass experts\, and get the opportunity to network and explore available resources with Nuestras Raíces’ community partners such as representatives from the USDA NRCS and FSA\, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources\, and other local farmers and producers. \nTo apply\, fill out this form or visit our office at 329 Main St.\, Holyoke (open 9am-5pm\, Mon-Fri). For questions about the program\, contact Elena Woodworth at ewoodworth@nuestras-raices.org or (413) 640-9539. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/talleres-por-agricultores-nuestras-raices/ LOCATION:24 Jones Ferry Rd\, Holyoke CATEGORIES:Farmer Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.buylocalfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/nuestras.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T193000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230921T143226Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230921T150043Z UID:44687-1697652000-1697657400@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Setting Goals for a Food Business / Estableciendo objetivos para una empresa de alimentos DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nWhether you’re starting\, growing\, or taking on a leadership role in a food business\, you get to define what you want your success to look like. Join Stevie Schafenacker\, independent farm and food business advisor\, for an interactive online workshop about different approaches to goal setting for food businesses. We’ll talk about how to set goals that help you stay focused on what you want to achieve. \n\nWednesday\, October 18th\, 6-7:30pm \nLocation: remote (Zoom)\nPlease register here by October 11th.\n\nThis workshop is part of the Essential Skills for Starting\, Growing and Managing a Food Business Fall Series. Click here for more information.  \nQuestions or requesting interpretation? Contact Caitlin Marquis\, (413) 588-5562. \n\nEstableciendo objetivos para una empresa de alimentos\n¡Registrar aquí! \nYa sea que esté iniciando\, creciendo o asumiendo un rol de liderazgo en un negocio de alimentos\, usted puede definir cómo quiere que sea su éxito. Únase a Stevie Schafenacker\, asesor independiente de empresas agrícolas y alimentarias\, para un taller interactivo en línea sobre diferentes enfoques para el establecimiento de objetivos para las empresas alimentarias. Hablaremos sobre cómo establecer metas que lo ayuden a mantenerse enfocado en lo que desea lograr. \n\n18 de octubre\, 6-7:30pm\nLugar: Zoom\nRegístrese antes de 11 octubre aquí \n\nHaga clic aquí para más información sobre la serie de talleres Habilidades esenciales para crear\, desarrollar y manejar una empresa de alimentos.  \n¿Preguntas o solicitar interpretación? Póngase en contacto con Caitlin Marquis\, cmarquis@collaborative.org o (413) 588-5562. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/setting-goals-for-a-food-business-estableciendo-objetivos-para-una-empresa-de-alimentos/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Farmer Events,CISA Workshops for Businesses END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231014T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231014T120000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230929T140209Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231004T183818Z UID:44775-1697277600-1697284800@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Fun on the Farm edition! DESCRIPTION:Making Food Fun comes to Westfield! Join CISA and local farms to celebrate the harvest season with apples\, pumpkins\, and flowers. This family event is free and open to the public. \nRain or shine\, we’ll be at the Westfield Bank Pavilion\, next to the playground at Stanley Park in Westfield on Saturday\,  \n \nOctober 14th from 10am-12pm. \n\nKids of all ages are welcome to get creative and make their own flower bouquets with Rooted Flowers of Agawam.\nDecorate a pumpkin from Ray’s Family Farm for Halloween or to celebrate the harvest.\nFind your favorite apple variety with a scientific taste test featuring apples from Kosinski Farms of Westfield.\nTake a sip of autumn with yummy apple cider from Bashista Orchards of Southampton.\n\nParents: learn more about local food served in Westfield Schools with Westfield Eats or pick up information on the Healthy Incentives Program.\nNibble on sweet treats from Blossoming Acres made from local apples and pumpkins.\n\nIt’s going to be a great morning and we hope to see you there!    \n \n \nPhotos by Lizzy McEleney URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/fun-on-the-farm-edition/ LOCATION:Stanley Park\, Westfield\, 400 Western Ave.\, Westfield\, Ma\, 01085\, United States CATEGORIES:CISA Events,Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.buylocalfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/MFF-Stanley-Park-2023-Hilltown-ad.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231011T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231011T183000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230929T152842Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230929T152842Z UID:44786-1697045400-1697049000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Fellowship 2024 - Informational Webinar DESCRIPTION:These cohort-based learning opportunities are for farmers and agricultural advisors in the Northeast and Midwest who are interested in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies and planning\, as well as peer-to-peer networking and support. Programs will run in the following topic areas: \n\nDiversified agriculture and agroforestry producers and advisors in the Northeast\nWomen and non-binary vegetable and small fruit producers and advisors in the Northeast and Midwest\nRow crop producers and advisors in the Midwest\n\nAn informational webinar will be held on October 11th\, 2023 from 5:30 to 6:30pm. At this webinar\, we will give an overview of the program and give instructions about submitting an application. Live Q&A will happen in the webinar\, and a recording will be posted at https://www.adaptationfellows.net/blog. Register for the webinar here.  \nFor more information and a description of the program\, please visit our website. \nIf you have questions related to this application\, please do not hesitate to contact Rachel Schattman by email (rachel.schattman@maine.edu). URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/climate-adaptation-and-mitigation-fellowship-2024-informational-webinar/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231010T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231010T170000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230825T223410Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T223410Z UID:44442-1696924800-1696957200@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Forming an LLC DESCRIPTION:If you are curious about the details of an LLC\, you’re not alone! Most farmers choose the LLC as their preferred business structure. The good news is that forming one is quite simple. But at the same time\, farmers and ranchers need to know a few keys to ensure they get the benefits they’re expecting from this entity. We’ll do a quick recap of why an LLC is a good risk management tool before going into how to form one\, which best practices to implement after it’s formed\, and regular obligations to keep the LLC in top legal shape. Even farmers who have had an LLC for years will learn some things about how to preserve their resilience. Led by staff from Farm Commons\, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering farmers to solve their own business law challenges in a community of support. To access their robust library of farm law print guides\, podcasts\, video tutorials\, checklists\, and more\, visit www.farmcommons.org. \nFarm Commons is a national nonprofit organization specializing in legal education for farmers. Our mission is to empower farmers to resolve their own business law issues within an ecosystem of support. Through education\, leadership development and community-based problem solving around business law\, agricultural communities become stronger and more resilient. The result is a legacy of sustainable farms and a community-based food system for everyone. At Farm Commons\, paperwork is powerful. \nDate: October 10\, 3pm  \nRegister Here URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/forming-an-llc/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231008T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231008T130000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230925T174000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230927T211026Z UID:44724-1696759200-1696770000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Dynamic Forests Walk DESCRIPTION:Healthy forests are important for clean water\, wildlife habitat\, wood products\, and providing climate benefits.  Join us for a forest tour in the Berkshire Foothills to learn from foresters and biologists how forest planning and management can build a resilient landscape.  We will have the chance to see several different forest treatments that were completed at various points in time over the last 20 years.  They will provide excellent opportunities to see how these woodlands have responded and how these projects complement the larger forest and the needs of wildlife.  This is a fantastic learning opportunity if you are curious about how forests are managed and how you can approach forest planning on your own woodlot or community forest. \nLocation: Tunxis Club\, Tollard\, MA \nThe workshop is free but please RSVP by contacting Matt DiBona at mdibona@nwtf.net or call/text 302-943-3239. URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/dynamic-forests-walk/ LOCATION:Tunxis Club\, Tollard\, MA\, United States CATEGORIES:Climate Events,Community Events,Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231008T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231008T160000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230905T145953Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230927T210956Z UID:44517-1696757400-1696780800@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Building Soil Health with Mushroom Compost DESCRIPTION:Register here! \nJoin us in our journey of diving deep into the world of compost and mushroom substrate. Throughout the day\, we’ll be looking into the living world of soil and mycelium and sensing how to integrate spent mushroom substrate into home and small-scale farm composting systems. Learn about Woven Roots Farm’s no-till\, hand-scale\, growing\, composting\, mulching\, and harvesting practices\, and how mushroom substrate is being incorporated into their farming practices. \nMushroom substrate is an amazing way to increase the bioactivity of your compost\, making your soil rich and nutrients more accessible to plants. We will be looking at compost at all stages: mixing it ourselves\, observing a well-inoculated sample\, and spreading compost on our beds. We’ll also take a close look at compost throughout the inoculation process via microscopes\, guiding you to know what to look for on your own. For those that don’t have a microscope at home\, this is a great chance to learn how to build one using simple materials and a smartphone. DIY kits will be for sale. Afterwards\, you’ll be able to sense into making your own beautiful mushroom compost blend\, look for the creatures who make compost happen\, and apply this knowledge to your very own beds. Click here for more information! \nEvent Details: \n\nDate: October 8 @ 9:30 am – 4:00 pm\nLocation: Woven Roots Farm\, 12 McCarty Road\, Tyringham\, MA 01264 \nPrice: $75 – $135\n\nQuestions? Contact Hannah McDonald\, NOFA/Mass Events Manager\, at events@nofamass.org URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/building-soil-health-with-mushroom-compost/ LOCATION:Woven Roots Farm\, 12 McCarty Road\, Tyringham\, MA\, United States CATEGORIES:Climate Events,Community Events,Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231007T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231007T150000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230925T173129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230927T210823Z UID:44720-1696672800-1696690800@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Hedgerows for Food and Diversity; Agroforestry on Farms and Homesteads DESCRIPTION:With Jono Neiger as our workshop leader\, we’ll first look at Many Hands Organic Farm through the lens of whole systems design. We will explore\, and literally dig into\, areas of the farm to see how the complexity of soils\, water\, vegetation\, microclimates\, and more are interwoven and incorporated into farm management. Finally\, we will look at specific field edges to see how they might become multi-functional hedgerows.  We’ll walk through hedgerow design- looking at specific edges\, identifying tree species\, installation\, and management strategies. \nHedgerows are an agroforestry strategy that goes far back into human landscape management- where trees\, shrubs with other plants are employed and orchestrated to function in many ways.   They can function as windbreaks\, fuel\, fodder\, pollination\, habitat\, carbon sinks\, and much more. These field and farm edges provide an opportunity to separate and interconnect parts of the landscape. Design and planning of hedgerows are both simple and complex and a chance to diversify the farm. \nWhen: Saturday\, October 7\, 2023\, 10 am – 3 pm\, with potluck lunch\nWhere: Many Hands Sustainability Center\, 411 Sheldon Road\, Barre\, MA \nJono Neiger is a founder and agroforestry planner at Regenerative Design Group Cooperative\, in western Massachusetts with 30+ years of professional experience in agroforestry\, permaculture\, ecological land and site planning\, conservation\, and restoration. He holds a B.S. degree in Forest Biology and a Masters in Landscape Planning and Design and authored The Permaculture Promise. He operates Big River Chestnuts\, a chestnut agroforestry farm in Sunderland\, Massachusetts. \nPrice for the workshop: $50-$100. Register online at https://mhof.net/events-workshops/ \nQuestions: Contact farm@mhof.net or 978-257-1192 URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/hedgerows-for-food-and-diversity-agroforestry-on-farms-and-homesteads/ LOCATION:Many Hands Sustainability Center\, 411 Sheldon Road\, Barre\, United States CATEGORIES:Climate Events,Community Events,Farmer Events ORGANIZER;CN="Regenerative Design Group":MAILTO:info@regenerativedesigngroup.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231005T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231005T143000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230825T222858Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T222858Z UID:44440-1696510800-1696516200@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Adding Value to Your Product Line DESCRIPTION:Join us as we welcome the return of popular guest speaker\, Laura Jensen a.k.a. The Pig Nerd. As a fellow farmer\, Laura will share her expertise from her 6+ years of experience in retail meat sales from her on-farm store front and butcher shop\, Jensen Reserve. \nThis ‘Pennies Make Dollars’ approach will cover every aspect of “What can you do at home and with your processor” including the legalities of it all in her return to FACT. \nHolding multiple food production licenses\, including federal value added programs\, she will help you define your options and add greater profit to your bottom line through a higher carcass yield. \nDate: October 5th\, 1pm  \nRegister Here URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/adding-value-to-your-product-line/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231004T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231004T190000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230929T134645Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230929T134910Z UID:44779-1696442400-1696446000@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:MassGrown Wellness Presentation DESCRIPTION:MDAR invites you to an overview presentation on the peer support network MassGrown Wellness is working to create in our state to support the mental health and wellness of the Massachusetts’s agricultural community. \nOn Wednesday\, October 4\, 2023\, MassGrown Wellness will be holding a 1-hour online meeting from 6:00 – 7:00 pm to discuss the program\, gain your insights and discuss our plan for peer group leadership opportunities. \nOur vision for the program is to assemble a group of farmers and ag service providers who want to offer support to farmers experiencing stressful times. We will offer to train you in the basics of (1) core resources available to help farmers in Massachusetts and (2) how to offer nonjudgmental active listening that helps others feel heard and reduce their stress. \nFarmers seeking to connect with other farmers will then be able to reach out to MassGrown Wellness trained peers. You are primarily offering to simply talk with a fellow farmer so that they may feel support and do not feel isolated with their challenges. \nThe purpose of this event is to:\n•    Meet and connect with other farmers in Massachusetts.\n•    Learn about the statewide peer support network MDAR is developing.\n•    Receive information about how to join farmers supporting one another in our state.\n•    Learn about MassGrown Wellness and the available resources. \nTo register\, please email Greg.Porell@mass.gov with your interest and get link to the online meeting site. For more information\, you may also contact Greg at 617-803-7117. \nIf you are interested and can’t make the event\, please reach out and we can provide you with a link to the recording of the overview and you can gauge your interest in participating. Hope to see you there! URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/massgrown-wellness-presentation/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Farmer Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231004T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231004T143000 DTSTAMP:20231227T212116 CREATED:20230929T133607Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230929T133607Z UID:44774-1696424400-1696429800@www.buylocalfood.org SUMMARY:Legislation to Support Agritourism in the United States DESCRIPTION:On August 11\, U.S. Representatives Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the bipartisan AGRITOURISM Act. This legislation would create an Office of Agritourism in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to represent the interests of agritourism businesses and consolidate federal resources to sustain agritourism businesses\, such as loans\, grants\, and broadband connectivity programs. At this webinar\, we will be joined by legislative leaders in the process\, including the author of the legislation\, Representative Jennifer Wexton from Virginia. Legislative leaders will present information about the purpose and intent of the bill\, along with anticipatied actions and timelines. Webinar participants will be invited to ask questions about the legislation\, as well as discuss ways to assist in the process and advocate for agritourism support in the U.S. \nTo request a disability-related accommodation to participate in this program\, participants should call or email Amber Hunt at 802-656-7531 or amber.hunt@uvm.edu so we may assist you. \nRegister here! URL:https://www.buylocalfood.org/event/legislation-to-support-agritourism-in-the-united-states/ LOCATION:Remote CATEGORIES:Community Events,Farmer Events END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR