Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program
Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program
Recurring Saturday Sessions, August 28 - September 25, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
VSU’s small ruminant program has designed and built a mobile processing unit as a resource to the state’s sheep and goat producers. To be able to utilize this resource, producers/clientele will need to complete a 5-module certification program. Only certified users will be able to process their sheep and goats on the MPU. Modules will include MPU design and usage, sheep and goat harvesting and carcass fabrication, regulations (state and federal), marketing your products and hands-on training on operating the MPU and all steps that should be taken to ensure everything is running and functional before processing, during processing, carcass cooling/hanging and fabrication.
4 MODULES ONLINE 9AM - 12PM:
August 28
September 11
September 18
September 25
*1 HANDS-ON MODULE 9AM - 3PM:
October 9-10
November 6-7
December 4-5
*Two days required onsite - Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road
A Certificate of Competence would be awarded upon completion of assignment(s), passage of quiz and butchering and fabrication skills.
$100 PROGRAM FEE
For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call (804) 524-6971 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
(CANCELLED) USDA Information Session
USDA Information Session
Thursday, October 21, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
This event has been cancelled. Please check the calendar for more events.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Agribusiness Production & Financial Management Program
Agribusiness Production & Financial Management Program
Friday and Saturday, August 27-28, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Randolph Farm Pavilion, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA
Registration fee: $25, Limited to 30 registrants
Managing a farm is more than planting and harvesting crops or raising livestock. Farming is a business, and like any business, its success depends on proper planning and financial management. The Agribusiness Production and Financial Management Program, conducted by Megan Harrison and Jordan Scott, both Virginia State University College of Agriculture alumnae with expertise in farm financing, will help new and established farmers and ranchers learn to develop business plans, keep efficient records and discover tips on mitigating business risks, establishing credit and borrowing from lenders.
Participants will receive an Agribusiness Production and Financial Management Manual and will learn financial management strategies that will help their businesses become more profitable and sustainable. Participants will also visit local farms through virtual tours and will have an opportunity to talk with farmers about their business enterprises. The training will enable farmers and ranchers to better understand how to develop and maintain a business plan and set goals for their farm operations and/or enterprises.
BRING YOUR OWN LUNCH. SPACE IS LIMITED TO 30 PARTICIPANTS.
For more information, contact Michael Wooden at (804) 524-3652 or mwooden@vsu.edu.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
USDA Information Session
USDA Information Session
Thursday, Jun 24, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Join us for an inviting conversation with various agencies of USDA including Farm Service Agency (FSA), Rural Development (RD), Natural Resources and Conservation Services (NRCS) among others. USDA officials from around the state will share the agencies programs and opportunities for small farmers and will answer your questions concerning eligibility and participation. Join us to stay informed on all the new and current programs USDA has to assist our Virginia farmers.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Small Farm Orientation (CANCELLED)
Small Farm Orientation
This event has been cancelled. The next Small Farm Orientation is scheduled for August 9, 2021.
The program is geared to new and beginning farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Participants are directed through the process of developing a productive and profitable operation. Small Farm Outreach agent Vernon Health, developer and instructor for the program, has over 40 years of work experience in the Virginia agriculture industry. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation Manual developed by the instructor.
For more information, contact Small Farm Outreach agent Vernon Heath at (804) 892-4518 or vheath@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Aquaponics
Aquaponics
Thursday, May 13, 2021 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Aquaponics is the integration of growing plants and fish into one system. Find out how to begin small scale aquaponics systems for hobbyists, schools, and as an enterprise for a farm or urban setting. A small scale aquaponics unit will be demonstrated as part of the workshop.
For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at (804) 892-4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Flower Field Walk and Demonstration Part II
Flower Field Walk and Demonstration Part II
Wednesday, May 12, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
This month’s flower field walk at Randolph Farm’s SFOP plot with Susan Cheek will include demonstration of installing transplants into plastic, harvesting flowers from the field, and checking irrigation system. The audience both young and old will have a chance to see more as the season progresses at the flower field at the farm. Flowers give a hope and beauty to look at as well of a means of making a little or a lot of extra cash if managed correctly. We are hoping to show our past, present, and future visitors of the farm a little ray of sunshine on the horizon.
For more information, contact Susan Cheek at (804) 720-5539 or scheek@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Pastured Poultry Workshop (CANCELLED)
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
Pastured Poultry Workshop
Thursday, May 6, 2021 • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
The Small Farm Outreach Program will hold a virtual panel discussion in reference to small farmers raising and pasturing poultry. Topics will include layers versus breeders, space needed, disease management, predator management, processing and markets.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
High Tunnel Types and Construction
High Tunnel Types and Construction
Wednesday, May 5, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
A high tunnel is an agricultural structure that allows a grower to extend the growing season and protect crops from adverse weather conditions. Workshop participants will learn about using high tunnels to grow horticulture crops. Topics covered will be structure selection, management, maintenance and costs associated with high tunnel production. Special emphasis will be place on all phases of high tunnel construction. Participants will learn about proper crop selection for protected culture. Also covered will be resources for materials and supplies.
For more information, contact Clifford Somerville at (804) 892-4581 or csomerville@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Farm Equipment Safety
Farm Equipment Safety
Tuesday, April 27, 2021 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Agriculture safety should be a main concern to all who work or live on a farm, and everyone on the farm should understand the risks involved and follow proper safety procedures. Sometimes farmers and farm workers sustain injuries or experience a disability that impedes their capability to work, and these injuries not only impact the farmers, but also their families and even their community. The farm equipment safety workshop will increase the participants’ knowledge of their responsibility to operate equipment in a safe manner.
For more information, contact Michael Carter Sr. at (804) 481-1163 or mcarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Growing Small Grains Organically
Growing Small Grains Organically
This is event is rescheduled to Thursday, April 27, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
The Small Farm Outreach Program will hold a virtual panel discussion for Virginia’s small farmers raising small and specialty grains with organic production principles for livestock, mills and human consumption. We will discuss issues such as seed selection, weed control, pest control, no or limited tillage, commodity pricing, marketing, harvesting and harvesting equipment innovations, storage, transporting and useful agricultural technologies.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
For more information, contact the Small Farm Outreach Program at (804) 524-3292 or smallfarm@vsu.edu.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Aquatic Weeds In Farm Ponds
Aquatic Weeds in Farm Ponds
Tuesday, April 27, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Every spring, farm ponds come back to life. Aquatic weeds are the first to be noticed covering the pond. Aquatic weeds can cause issues for farm pond owners. How do you control aquatic weeds in ponds? This Zoom program will cover the various control means and the different aquatic weeds in a pond.
For more information, contact David Crosby at (804) 524-3653 or dcrosby@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
2021 Berry Walk
2021 Berry Walk
Tuesday, April 22, 2021 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Virtual Facebook Live Meeting
(PLEASE NOTE DATE CHANGE, CORRECT DATE IS THURSDAY 4/22)
Dr. Reza Rafie will walk you through the VSU collection of the blueberry varieties and their potential for the 2021 production season. we will show you blueberry grown in a greenhouse, in high tunnels and in the field. we will demonstrated the basics of planting blueberry in the field and in containers. There will be a Q&A session at the end of this event.
For more information, contact Reza Rafie at (804) 712-4600 or arafie@vsu.edu.
VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE (https://www.facebook.com/VsuCollegeOfAgriculture) AT 4PM ON TUESDAY, APRIL 20, AT 4 PM TO VIEW THIS EVENT.
USDA Information Session
USDA Information Session
Thursday, April 22, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Join us for an inviting conversation with various agencies of USDA including Farm Service Agency (FSA), Rural Development (RD), Natural Resources and Conservation Services (NRCS) among others. USDA officials from around the state will share the agencies programs and opportunities for small farmers and will answer your questions concerning eligibility and participation. Join us to stay informed on all the new and current programs USDA has to assist our Virginia farmers.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Flower Field Walk and Demonstration
Flower Field Walk and Demonstration
Wednesday, April 21, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Susan Cheek will take a one hour walk through the flower field at Randolph Farm in the SFOP plot. This is an opportunity for the general public to see some of what has been going on at the farm during the crisis. Farmers and gardeners alike will have a chance to see a demonstration to include drip irrigation installation, direct seeding sunflowers, and inspecting and harvesting of flowers in season at the time. This project gives everyone a look into the world of growing cut flowers for profit or pleasure.
For more information, contact Susan Cheek at (804) 720-5539 or scheek@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Recreational Marijuana Informational Session
Recreational Marijuana Informational Session
Tuesday, April 20, 2021 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Join the VSU SFOP and Virginia Small Farm Resource Center for an engaging conversation on the legalization of adult use recreational marijuana and what it could mean to small farmers with representatives from various state agencies, stakeholders and legislators. Small farmers will get an opportunity to ask their questions, share their concerns and hear about potential opportunities for legal growing operations in the Commonwealth.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
USDA Information Session
USDA Information Session
Thursday, April 15, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply for USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) direct or guaranteed loans and grants from USDA. Beginning, minority and veteran farmers can get help to prepare applications for farm ownership and operating loans and obtain the required borrower training.
Find out about the resources and current grants that are available from USDA, including the Rural Development Renewable Energy for America (REAP) grant and loan guarantee program, ValueAdded Producer Grant (VAPG) program, and Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) program. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs are also available to help you implement conservation practices that reduce soil erosion, enhance water supplies, improve water quality, increase wildlife habitat and reduce damages caused by floods and other natural disasters.
A multidisciplinary team from Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Small Farm Outreach Program at Virginia State University, and USDA agencies ensures that our financial and business management programs are innovative, culturally sensitive, level appropriate and practical for small-scale farm operations. The VCE Small Farm Outreach Program at VSU is an approved USDA FSA Borrower Training Vendor
For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at (804) 892-4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
VA Fresh Match/SNAP
VA Fresh Match/SNAP
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
Learn how to participate in the Virginia Fresh Match program that doubles the value of SNAP EBT (food stamps) for fresh fruits and vegetables. This webinar will inform you how healthy food incentives are used to increase consumer purchasing power so families with tight food budgets can bring home more fruits and vegetables. Learn how nutrition incentives work in your community, and how participation in the Virginia Fresh Match network can help you reach new customers and benefit your farming operation.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Farm Family Financial Wellness
Farm Family Financial Wellness
Thursday, April 8, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
The mission of the FCS-Family Resource /Financial Management Office is to increase the capacity of communities and families to enhance their economic well-being. Financial well-being is defined by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) as consumers:
Have control over day-to-day, month-to-month finances
Have the capability to absorb a financial shock
Are on track to meet financial goals.
Our performance goal is to annually improve the financial status of individuals, families and entrepreneurs through financial management education programs, activities and coaching.
For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at (804) 892-4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Vegetable Production and Crop Selection
Vegetable Production and Crop Selection
Wednesday, April 7, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Vegetables can be an important crop for both small-scale farmers and home gardeners. Workshop participants will learn about production techniques, varieties and protected culture systems to grow vegetables for home use or as a business enterprise. Special attention will be on proper techniques for transplant production, alternative production systems, tillage, potential pests and planning. Crops that have market potential and potential health benefits will be emphasized.
For more information, contact Clifford Somerville at (804) 892-4581 or csomerville@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Preparing for Bees: New Hives and Hive Expansion
Preparing for Bees: New Hives and Hive Expansion
Wednesday, March 24, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Our state apiarist, Keith Tignor, will present a classroom lecture, followed by a hands-on, prerecorded demonstration at the VSU apiary. This workshop is designed for those interested in getting started in beekeeping and beginning beekeepers with less than 5 years experience. Topics will inlcude bee ecology, hive components and construction, beekeeping equipment, bee nucs, bee packages, feeding and caring for bees, integrated pest management and colony collapse disorder.
For more information, contact Small Farm Outreach agent Tracy Porter at (804) 481-2566 or tporter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Small Ruminant Weaning for Success
Small Ruminant Weaning for Success
Thursday, March 18, 2021 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Small ruminant producers will learn about the pros and cons of early vs. late weaning, postweaning vaccinations, deworming, and other best management practices for promoting growth and weight gain for lambs and kids. A question/answer for problems associated with weaning and post-weaning will be addressed.
For more information, contact Amanda Fletcher at (804) 892-0108 or afletcher@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Beginner/Small Farmer Orientation
Beginner/Small Farmer Orientation
Friday, March 12, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
The program is geared to new and beginning farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Participants are directed through the process of developing a productive and profitable operation. Small Farm Outreach agent Vernon Health, developer and instructor for the program, has over 40 years of work experience in the Virginia agriculture industry. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation Manual developed by the instructor.
For more information, contact Small Farm Outreach agent Vernon Heath at (804) 892-4518 or vheath@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Farmers Market Preparedness Part IV “How to Tell Your Story”
Farmers Market Preparedness Part IV “How to Tell Your Story”
Thursday, March 11, 2021 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Virginia Cooperative Extension Small Farm Outreach Program at Virginia State University in conjunction with the Virginia Farmers Market Association will share how to craft and tell your farm story. You will learn about marketing/branding/social media. In addition, you will hear about different ways to market your business and what works and more importantly what hasn’t worked in this new market reality.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
QuickBooks® Online Training
QuickBooks® Online Training
Thursday, March 11 | 10AM-12PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
This workshop presented by Michell Green, SFOP Financial Analyst, will help farmers and ranchers learn to manage accounting and recordkeeping for their businesses. The topics covered include setting up financial records, preparing a chart of accounts, entering payments, deposits and invoices, tracking customers and creating estimates, reconciling bank statements, analyzing financial data and printing reports. Training does not include QuickBooks software or licenses.
For more information, contact Small Farm Outreach agent Tracy Porter at (804) 481-2566 or tporter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Social Media and Marketing for Farmers
Social Media and Marketing for Farmers
Tuesday, March 9 | 1PM-2PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Are you a farmer looking for ways to market your business more effectively on social media? Erica Shambley, the Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications for VSU’s College of Agriculture and Virginia Cooperative Extension, will provide an overview of key social media platforms, tips for posting and measuring impact, and examples of effective posts.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL.
Program Sponsors:
This webinar is part of a winter series of webinars sponsored by the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition (VBFRC) Program and the Virginia Association for Biological Farmers (VABF). VBFRC is a statewide and coalition-based program. Virginia Tech/Virginia Cooperative Extension serves as the backbone organization for the Coalition and the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program is the project lead of the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Grant that supports the Coalition. For VBFRC program questions, contact the program coordinator, Katie Trozzo at ketrozzo@vt.edu. The Virginia Association for Biological Farming is Virginia’s primary organization for farmers, gardeners, and farm supporters promoting the future of organic and biological crop production. For more information, visit www.vabf.org or email the administrator at admin@vabf.org
Donations Welcomed
This program is free of charge, but we welcome donations in support of the Virginia Association for Biological Farming Association, a cosponsor of this event. With cancellation of in person events, associations like VABF have lost their primary revenue source. In an effort to help them continue their work supporting farmers in Virginia we invite optional donations. You may also be interested in considering becoming a member of their organization. For more information about donations and membership, visit their website at this link: https://vabf.org/donate/#!form/Donate
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Kim Niewolny at 540-231-5784 between business hours (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) to discuss accommodations five days prior to the events.
Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate Program
Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate Program
March 6, 2021 - May 22, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
THIS EVENT HAS REACHED CAPACITY.
INCREASE COMPETENCE AND MARKETABILITY FOR A CAREER IN URBAN AGRICULTURE
To help meet the growing demand for academically trained urban agriculture professionals, Virginia State University’s College of Agriculture is offering its fourth Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate Program this spring. Designed for anyone charged with starting or managing an urban farm or who wants to increase their marketability to do so, the course provides a curriculum rich in the science-based knowledge needed to successfully and safely grow produce in an urban environment.
Courses include: sustainable soil management, plant propagation and nursery management, permaculture, plant disease and pest management, greenhouse production (hydroponics and aquaponics), animal husbandry (backyard chickens and rabbits), urban farming business planning and management, and many more. All courses will be taught by Virginia State University (VSU), and Virginia Tech professors and other invited guests
The 12-week (17 modules) course begins March 6 and ends May 22, 2020. Classes will be conducted on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. via Zoom and will include lectures and hands-on activities. Each student must also complete by the end of October, 80 hours of internship work at one or more approved urban farms in order to successfully graduate from the program with full certification.
For a fee of $250, the course will include Zoom sessions, kits for hands-on activities, and educational materials.
All participants are required to attend all Zoom sessions including the March 6, 2021 orientation from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. that will be conducted.
If you need further information or are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Saajida Chohan at schohan@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5252/TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations no later than five days prior to registration closing.
Virtual Virginia Berry School
Virtual Virginia Berry School
Due to the inclement weather predicted for Thursday, February 18th, this event is postponed to March 4-5, 9AM - 4PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting | Cost: $20
The two-day school will provide experienced and beginning Virginia berry growers with the latest research and information about starting a berry enterprise and production management of berry crops, including blueberries and blackberries.
VSU and VCE have sponsored berry production conferences for more than 10 years, as interest in the berry industry in Virginia continues to grow and markets expand. Growing berries can be profitable, however, it is labor-intensive and having a sustainable management plan can reduce risks considerably. Berry experts will teach via virtual classroom sessions and hands-on demonstrations on how to successfully grow berries in Virginia.
Topics include:
Blackberry production, soil preparation, planting, varieties, trellises, pruning, etc.
Blueberry production, soil amendment and preparation, planting, varieties, pruning, etc.
Berry health benefits
Berry pest and disease management
Post harvest management of berries
Hands-on pruning of both blackberry and blueberry plants ... AND MORE!
For more information, contact Jessica Harris at jbrown@vsu.edu.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Fruits and Vegetables Program office at jbrown@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3232 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Starting White (Irish) Potatoes for Spring Planting
Starting White (Irish) Potatoes for Spring Planting
Wednesday, March 3, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
racy Porter, VSU SFOP Farm Management Agent will provide a lecture followed by a hands-on demonstration on how to “Chit” green sprout white potatoes for spring planting. Topics include variety selection, ordering by mail, chitting, curing, soil preparation and planting.
For more information, contact Small Farm Outreach agent Tracy Porter at (804) 481-2566 or tporter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Organic Agriculture
Organic Agriculture
Tuesday, March 2, 2021 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Virtual Zoom Meeting
Join VCE SFOP at VSU and Virginia Association of Biological Farming (VABF) in a lively learning workshop on various aspects of organic farming practices, principles and challenges. Hear from producers who grow biologically, certified naturally and certified organic on pasture management, soil health, pest management, weed control and marketing. They will also share on how to get started growing organically, how to transition from conventional farm management and how to sustain and maintain your farm after making the conversion.
For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.
YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.