Introduction to Mushrooms (Part 3 of 3)

Friday, December 12, 2025 • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

21300 Plank Rd., Courtland, VA 23837

This will be Part 3 of a 3-part series on mushroom cultivation. In this segment, we will learn how crucial conditions must be for Mushrooms fruiting. Proper Humidity, CO2 and Lighting are very crucial. Participants will learn to create mason jar grain spawn samples and receive guidance on transferring them to substrate. They will also build a small Mushroom Monotub fruiting chamber for cultivating at home.

For more information, contact Garry Banks at (804) 760-3615 or gbanks@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

VSU SFOP and USDA Information Update

Thursday, December 11, 2025 • 3:00PM - 5:00PM

Buena Vista Downtown Square

Corner of 21st & Magnolia Avenue Buena Vista, VA, 24416

The VSU Small Farm Outreach Program events and services will be highlighted at a booth as part of the Buena Vista Farmers Market. The marketing rules will be available to individuals considering being vendors at this market. Participants will be able to get an idea of different marketing practices while having an opportunity to have questions answered.

For more information, please contact Forrest Hobbs at (804) 892-5310 or fhobbs@vsu.edu.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Small Ruminant Webinar Series - Reproductive Management

Wednesday, December 10, 2025 • 7:00PM - 8:20 PM

Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting

Join us for an engaging and informative monthly webinar series dedicated to small ruminant production and management. Designed for farmers, extension agents, educators, and industry professionals, this series covers a wide range of topics critical to the success and sustainability of sheep and goat operations. Each session features expert speakers, practical insights, and opportunities for Q&A. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your practices, this series offers valuable tools and knowledge to support your success.

For more information, contact Dahlia O’Brien at 804.892.4489 or dobrien@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Planning for Opportunities & Grants in 2026

This event has been cancelled. Please check our calendar for more events.

Recordkeeping on your Computer or Smart Phone

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 • 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting

Farming is a business, and good recordkeeping is essential for a successful farming operation. Using the tools you have, you can keep thorough records. These records will provide valuable information on which methods work best on your farm. They can help plan a realistic forecast for the coming year and may also be a requirement for lending institutions. Greg Carter will lead this workshop. He grew up on a small farm but worked in the corporate world. After retirement, Greg returned to his roots and started a small diversified farming operation, using the lessons he learned in business.

Now he shares this knowledge with other farmers!

For more information, please contact Michael Carter Sr. at (804) 481-1163 or mcarter@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

MUSHROOM CULTIVATION 5pm

Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 5:00PM - 7:00PM

4675 East Princess Anne Road Norfolk, VA, 23502

Mushrooms are a small yet mighty culinary ingredient with many health benefits, from cancer prevention to enhancing brain health.

Jason Hess, owner/operator of The Tidewater Mushroom Company LLC, will introduce participants to common gourmet mushroom varieties and their uses. Participants will learn about the mushroom life cycle, nutrition facts, superfood statistics, and day-to-day operation of this unique indoor urban mushroom farm.

Each participant will receive an inoculated grow bag to take home, following a tour of the farm to include Q&A and an explanation of the lab, equipment, and growing mediums.

For more information, please contact Ben Dukes at (804) 731-7916 or bdukes@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

MUSHROOM CULTIVATION 2pm

Sunday, December 7, 2025 • 2:00PM - 4:00PM

4675 East Princess Anne Road Norfolk, VA, 23502

Mushrooms are a small yet mighty culinary ingredient with many health benefits, from cancer prevention to enhancing brain health.

Jason Hess, owner/operator of The Tidewater Mushroom Company LLC, will introduce participants to common gourmet mushroom varieties and their uses. Participants will learn about the mushroom life cycle, nutrition facts, superfood statistics, and day-to-day operation of this unique indoor urban mushroom farm.

Each participant will receive an inoculated grow bag to take home, following a tour of the farm to include Q&A and an explanation of the lab, equipment, and growing mediums.

For more information, please contact Ben Dukes at (804) 731-7916 or bdukes@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Grow Your Own Medicine

Saturday, December 6, 2025 • 1:00PM - 4:00PM

CA&J Farm - 5620 East River Road Foster, Virginia 23056

Have you ever wondered how you could grow your own medicinal herbs? This workshop will discuss all

about herbal wellness and how to create your own personalized medicinal herb gardens. This class will

also discuss how to cultivate these herbs, and the best time of the year to harvest the herbs.

For more information, please contact Roland Terrell at (804) 892-4612 or rterrell@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Aerial Imagery for Farmers

Thursday, December 4, 2025 • 9:00AM - 11:30AM

9432 North James Madison Highway Rapidan, VA, 22733

Learn how aerial imagery can revolutionize your farming practices! This workshop will cover practical techniques for using aerial imagery to detect diseases and pests early, make real-time decisions, and address skips and overlaps in planting,spraying,fertilizing, and liming. Discover how these methods can help you even out yields and tackle potential issues before they escalate, ensuring a more efficient and productive farming operation.

For more information, please contact Roland Terrell at (804) 892-4612 or rterrell@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Farm Tour - Epic Pastures Farm

Wednesday, December 3, 2025 • 10:00AM - 1:00PM

1853 Cumberland Road Farmville, VA, 23901

Join us for a tour of Epic Pastures Farm with Bob and Maggie Allen. After relocating from Chicago, they have turned an underutilized property into a busy, thriving farming operation. They have started an orchard, built a greenhouse and started producing vegetables. They have recently added sheep to their farming operation. Their plans include continuing to improve the quality of their land for future expansion of their farm plans.

For more information, please contact Marilyn Estes at (804) 481-0485 or mestes@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Basic Soil Fertility for Small Farmers

Wednesday, December 3, 2025 • 9:00AM - 12:00PM

20712 4th Street Ettrick, VA 23806

Now is the perfect time to prepare for next year's planting and crops!

This Soil Fertility Workshop will discuss all 18 nutrients essential for plant growth, and the effects on plant health. You will learn about the reasons soils become acid, nutrients that hang around and those that leave the site. Find out the importance of liming and when to apply nutrients, and how to make the best use of them.

For more information, please contact Timothy Sexton at (804) 524-1028 or tsexton@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Starting an LLC workshop: a Beginners Guide for Virginia Farmers

Tuesday, December 2, 2025 • 6:00PM - 8:30PM

1 Partnership Circle Abingdon, VA, 24210

Click Register Now to get the link!

This workshop provides an overview of the process of forming and managing a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Virginia. Designed for aspiring, beginning, or experienced farmers, this workshop will equip you with the essential knowledge and practical steps to navigate the legal and administrative requirements of establishing an LLC in the Commonwealth. Tax benefits and considerations will also be discussed.

For more information, please contact Amanda "Mandy" Fletcher at (804) 892-0108 or afletcher@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Start Smart: Building Your Agri-Business

Tuesday, December 2, 2025 • 5:30PM - 7:30PM

Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center

220 University Boulevard Harrisonburg, VA, 22801

Join the Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center for an evening session to jump start your agri-business. This workshop is designed to help beginning farmers build and develop a business and marketing plan. Learn about the SBDC's advising resources and Financial Wellness Center. This workshop will be geared to agricultural producers to address the specific areas of concern and growth related to farm enterprises.

For more information, please contact Marian Dalke at (540) 232-6010 or mdalke@vt.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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

MUSHROOM CULTIVATION 5pm

Sunday, November 30, 2025 • 5:00PM - 7:00PM

4675 East Princess Anne Road Norfolk, VA, 23502

Mushrooms are a small yet mighty culinary ingredient with many health benefits, from cancer prevention to enhancing brain health.

Jason Hess, owner/operator of The Tidewater Mushroom Company LLC, will introduce participants to common gourmet mushroom varieties and their uses. Participants will learn about the mushroom life cycle, nutrition facts, superfood statistics, and day-to-day operation of this unique indoor urban mushroom farm.

Each participant will receive an inoculated grow bag to take home, following a tour of the farm to include Q&A and an explanation of the lab, equipment, and growing mediums.

For more information, please contact Ben Dukes at (804) 731-7916 or bdukes@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

MUSHROOM CULTIVATION 2pm

Sunday, November 30, 2025 • 2:00PM - 4:00PM

4675 East Princess Anne Road Norfolk, VA, 23502

Mushrooms are a small yet mighty culinary ingredient with many health benefits, from cancer prevention to enhancing brain health.

Jason Hess, owner/operator of The Tidewater Mushroom Company LLC, will introduce participants to common gourmet mushroom varieties and their uses. Participants will learn about the mushroom life cycle, nutrition facts, superfood statistics, and day-to-day operation of this unique indoor urban mushroom farm.

Each participant will receive an inoculated grow bag to take home, following a tour of the farm to include Q&A and an explanation of the lab, equipment, and growing mediums.

For more information, please contact Ben Dukes at (804) 731-7916 or bdukes@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Small Ruminants: Late Gestation Lambing/Kidding

Saturday, November 22, 2025 • 11:30AM - 2:30PM

15424 Blessed Lane Abingdon, VA, 24210

Calling all beginning and experienced sheep/goat producers…Join this interactive session to gain valuable knowledge of best management practices for lambing/kidding. This workshop includes a hands-on demonstration with a birthing model. Additional topics include preventing lamb/kid loss, the importance of colostrum, strategies for troubleshooting when birthing complications occur, and diagnosing and treating newborn lamb/kid problems. Dinner will be provided. Registration required by 11/19/25.

For more information, please contact Amanda "Mandy" Fletcher at (804) 892-0108 or afletcher@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Profitable Roots- Trust in Wills, and Wills in Trust

Thursday, November 20, 2025 • 6:30PM -8:00 PM

Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting

Let's talk what happens next to your farming operation, as you join Michael Carter Jr of Carter Farms and Africulture and invited guests speakers to discuss the in and outs of heir property, trust formation and wills to ensure your operation and land is preserved. Wills are hard to talk, and they are even harder to talk about when we aren't here, so let's start the conservation and the planning process to be prepared for the inevitable. Profits aren't always centered around what you are growing, but many times how you plan for and protect your assets for the future. Let's grow together and will ourselves to more profitable roots.

For more information, please contact Roland Terrell at (804) 892-4612 or rterrell@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

WINTERIZING BEEHIVES

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

VSU Randolph Farm 4415 River Road Petersburg, VA, 23803

Keith Tignor, our State Apiarist, will cover the steps needed to winterize your beehives.

The workshop will include a PowerPoint presentation in the large conference room at the Randolph Farm Pavilion on the main subject matter.

The hands-on portion will include a visit bee yard on Randolph Farm.

Topics will include opening a hive for inspection, pest identification and management, techniques to feed bees over the winter, cover crops to support your bees and tree species that produce the most nectar and pollen.

The workshop will also cover when and how to order honeybee nucs in preparation for the spring.

Information from this program will help attendees mitigate hive loss over the winter.

All participants should bring a bee suit to wear during the hive inspection part of this workshop. Wear light-colored clothes and avoid open-toe shoes, perfume or cologne.

Coffee and donuts will be provided.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804.731.7916 or bdukes@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Basic Soil Science for Small Farmers

Wednesday, November 19, 2025 • 9:00AM -12:00 PM

20712 4th Street Ettrick, VA 23806

This is an excellent time to learn about soils and all of the things they do to support us in our daily lives.

learn why soils are different and the layers in the soil and how they formed. You will learn about how soil breaks down and the importance of different size particles. Why do some soils have a lot of organic matter and some do not? and things we can do to improve soil health and therefore Plant health

For more information, please contact Tim Sexton at (804) 524-1028 or tsexton@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Climatology of Virginia Farms and Landscapes

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 • 6:00PM -8:00 PM

832 Park Street Jonesville, VA 24263

Virginia is a state of diverse landscapes and distinctive climatic zones which presents unique challenges to residents of the commonwealth.

This workshop will help increase understanding of the intricate relationships between weather, climate, and the natural history of Virginia. Farmers, growers, and lovers of the natural world will gain a deeper appreciation of Virginia's rich environment to help them make informed decisions for a sustainable future for themselves, their familes, friends, and communities.

An open question and answer session will be provided. Thanks and appreciation to Laura Young, DCR Southwest Land Steward, for hosting this event.

For more information, please contact Wayne Browning at (804) 760-3932 or wbrowning@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

SMALL FARM ORIENTATION

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 • 9:00AM -11:00 AM

Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting

This two-hour Zoom course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm.

Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm.

Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804.731.7916 or bdukes@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Introduction to Mushrooms (Part 2 of 3)

Friday, November 14, 2025 • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

21300 Plank Rd., Courtland, VA 23837

This will be Part 2 of a 3-part series on mushroom cultivation, where we explore the intricacies of grain spawn and substrate preparation. This course offers participants the chance to engage in hands-on learning with essential techniques critical for successful mushroom growing. you'll delve into different grain spawn options, such as rye, millet, wheat and oats, each offering unique benefits for mycelium growth. Participants will gain practical experience in preparing and inoculating gain bags, which involves sterilization and monitoring mycelium colonization. Furthermore you'll learn the " Bucket Tek" method, a technique for particularly beneficial for oyster mushrooms. By the end of the course you will have created your personal grow bucket, equipping you with the skills and confidence to continue your mushroom cultivation journey at home.

For more information, contact Garry Banks at (804) 760-3615 or gbanks@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Risk Management for the Farm - Agrotourism

Thursday, November 13, 2025 • 1:00PM - 2:00 PM

Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting

Farming comes with many risks. Safety is paramount on all farms. Adding agrotourism to your operation can result in additional income. With that income, comes additional risks. Mr. Curt Porterfield, Assistant Director of College Facilities and Safety for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech, will present ideas and suggestions on how to mitigate those additional risks.

For more information, contact Brent Noell at 804.892.0140 or bnoell@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Whole Farm Planning

Wednesday, November 13, 2025 • 9:00AM - 12:30 PM

VSU Randolph Farm 4415 River Road Petersburg, VA, 23803

Whole Farm Planning helps beginning farmers maintain or improve profitability while enhancing their sustainability. With Whole Farm Planning, beginning farmers define long-and short-term goals to achieve a better quality of life at home and in the community.

LEARN FROM:

VSU Small Farm Outreach Agents as they review the Whole Farm Planning manual; Farm Credit representatives with instruction on how to develop a simple, one-page business plan.

For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at 804.892.4489 or dcladd@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

This event has been cancelled.

The Science of Food Preservation

Monday, November 10, 2025 • 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting

Discover the science and technology behind safe home food preservation. This presentation will cover boiling water bath canning, pressure canning, as well as dehydration methods.

Learn how each method works to prevent spoilage and protect your health, while gaining practical skills to preserve your garden bounty or local harvest with confidence.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804.731.7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu and Garry Banks at 804-760-3615 or gbanks@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Lets get ready to plant

Saturday, November 8, 2025 • 1:00PM - 4:00PM

CA&J Farm at 5620 East River Road Foster, VA, 23056

Lets plant fruit trees, berries, and garlic to name a few. Now is the time to start thinking about how to

prepare for next year. This workshop will discuss how to prepare for the 2026 season. This is beneficial if

you are already established or looking to establish a new site.

For more information, please contact Derrick Gooden at (804) 892-0108 or dgooden@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Profitable roots - Accounting for success

Thursday, November 6, 2025 • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting

Good accounting is critical for the success of any operation. Join Michael Carter Jr. of Carter Farms and his invited guests to share about the basics of accounting for your business, answer any of your questions and help you to avoid any pitfalls. The workshop will be engaging, using real world and practical examples that you may have experienced or could face in the future. Let's grow while we talk numbers while keeping our pencils sharp.

For more information, contact Roland Terrell at 804.892.4612 or rterrell@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.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Information and Techniques to help Small Farmers In their Farming Operations

This event has been cancelled.