Greetings All,
Below is an amazing collection of info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the central Virginia bioregion, including a wonderful array of gatherings and classes. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
1.
Sixth Annual Gaia Gathering for Women near Charlottesville
May 4 - 6, 2012 -- Weaving the Web of Community
Welcome to our Sixth Annual Gaia Gathering. Gaia is the Greek name for the Primordial Goddess of the earth. Today this word represents the truth that our Planet is our Mother who is alive and pulsing and beating and swaying with the rhythms of the universe. A tradition at Gaia is to change the theme and focus of our weekend every three years. We are continually cycling from self, to family to community then back again. This year our theme is Community and Connectivity. We will celebrate this through our classes as well as our Saturday night Beltane ritual where we will celebrate collectively as versus our traditional intention setting circle.
Again, this week end fills as we are limited to only 100 Women. Fee for the weekend is $275. This includes Friday night to Sunday afternoon classes and activities, rustic lodging or camping and five gourmet, organic meals. We pride ourselves on wild, organic, outrageously wonderful food. From nettle soup, fermented beets, carrots and ginger to damiana brownies….well, just extraordinary. So while most other events will charge the fee and then food and lodging costs, we are truly working towards accessibility through our all-inclusive fee. Learn more at:
http://www.sacredplanttraditions.com/gaia.html
Check out our Great Summer Classes at Sacred Plant Traditions
June 30: Designing an Herb Garden
July 1: Kitchen Apothecary
August 11: Digestive Wellness
August 12: The Art of Fermentation
http://www.sacredplanttraditions.com
2.
Forrest Green Farm
PLANTS : culinary & medicinal herb plants, heirloom vegetable plants, heat loving flowers and decorative plants will be ready mid-April. Plant lists and updates available on our website http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/greenhouse-gardens/plants-for-sale/
SUMMER COURSE OFFERINGS:
WHOLE LIVING FROM THE GROUND UP - May- October 2012
A foundation course on organic herbal living with the cycles of nature. Learn by growing, harvesting, nourishing, and healing with the herbs and vegetables as you make them part of your everyday life. This is a very hands-on class! You will take home something from every project that we do. This allows you to immediately start using your new skills to enhance your life. For a complete list of topics that we cover and dates check out our website http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/classes-events/whole-living-course/summer-whole-living/
MEDICINE MAKERS
If you have a foundation in the use of herbs, you know how expensive it can be to purchase herbal medicines. Here is an opportunity made possible by Forrest Green Farm to gather in community with fellow herbalists and create medicines fresh from the herb gardens here at the farm. Each month you will learn what herbs will be available to create a variety of nutritive and medicinal herbal items that may include vinegars, honeys, tinctures, oils, salves and flower essences. You can come each month, or choose the dates and herbs that interest you. Medicine Makers will share knowledge around specific plants each month that include their healing properties both on physical and energetic levels. You will be encouraged to get to know the plants from which your medicines are made and the importance of intention in the creation of herbal medicines. We will gather once a month 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. For a list of each months projects check our website http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/classes-events/whole-living-course/medicine-makers/
Forrest Green Farm, Louisa, Va
(540) 967-1165; (434) 882-2648
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
3.
Mushroom Club Foray at Ivy Creek Natural Area in Charlottesville
Sunday, April 22, 10:00 am
Mushrooms! Come help start a local mushroom club. Join our organizational foray at Ivy Creek. Bring your excitement, knowledge or lack thereof, mushroom field guides, and organizational skills. We'll start in the Education Building with a few slides, plan for a bit and then go out and look for mushrooms in the Natural Area. Free and open to all.
Growing Mushrooms at Home: an Introduction to Permaculture of the Fungi.
Learn about mushroom biology, ecology and cultivation of mushrooms in the garden and woods. Demonstrations include simple outdoor methods for growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms. We will inoculate logs and install a gourmet mushroom bed in the garden. Each person will take home a bag of spawn to start their own mushroom garden. April 7th. 9am-12pm. Sharondale Farm, Cismont, VA (http://shop.sharondalefarm.com/)
Firsthand Farmers Cooperative is accepting subscriptions for the 2012 CSA season. We will offer all the excellent fresh and nutritious local farm products we had in 2011 and more. Our CSA offerings are the most diverse from small family farms and businesses in Central Virginia: vegetables, fruits, herbs, eggs, dairy products, mushrooms, flowers, bread, slow-roasted coffee, ferments, and canned goods. Check out www.firsthandfarmerscooperative.com for more details about this excellent way to eat local food.
4.
Tom Tom Founders Festival is a new creative festival in downtown Charlottesville celebrating original music, public art and community innovation. To learn more about TTFF, please visit www.tomtomfest.com.
As part of the innovation programming, we are planning a locavore expo on May 12 from 10am-2pm as an extension of the Saturday Farmers' market. Our local food movement is a powerful example of community innovation and we want to highlight you, the people who make it all possible. The locavore expo will be a medley of local food tastings, chef demonstrations and hands-on gardening activities as an extension of the Charlottesville Farmer's Market down South 1st street to the downtown mall. We will be hosting a seed and starts exchange and kids activities throughout the expo.
If you are interested in participating, please email Natasha Sienitsky at cvillelocavore@gmail.com. Please forward to anyone you think might like to be involved/attend.
5.
Permaculture Work-Exchange/Room (Board) with Employment Opportunities
The Silver Sage House and Studio: Ctr. for Transformational Studies, a 1991 classic-styled Victorian house located in Charlottesville, VA, is offering short-term and long-term room and board in its first level’s private furnished studio apartment for a permaculture small-farming and training work exchange, now available immediately. Throughout the year, the Silver Sage House and Studio offers unique and beautiful mountain view lodging accommodations. An ideal choice for a Virginia getaway, this educational/recreational and residential hub is a tranquil, 10-acre all-natural, sustainable small farm located just 4 miles from Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall in close proximity to a wide variety of area attractions.
At present, this permaculture farming work exchange is now at the very early beginning stages that consists of a couple fruit-bearing apple trees, several raised garden beds and rain barrel equipment ready to be installed. Furthermore, there will be much more opportunity to expand creative sustainability. Our vision is to include more gardening and farming plots that will require managing food preparation, preservation, and production, as well as raising chickens and grazing goats within a food co-op for training purposes.
Therefore, this plan could offer additional employment opportunities that could include tours, classes, and workshops. Along with these offerings, we can also even envision a part-time café that may promote energy saving, creative living and the merits of producing local, healthy foods.
Please contact: Linda Capacchione (434) 296-1338
5.
Cville Bike mApp Project Launch Event
Saturday, April 14th, 9:30am
Martin Luther King Jr Performing Arts Center at Charlottesville High School
On April 14th the Charlottesville-Albemarle Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will release the Cville Bike mApp, a free, bike route mapping application for iPhone and Android phones. The App allows cyclists to record their trips and send the trip information to the MPO for transportation planning purposes. With an expected decrease in federal transportation funding, this data will help elected officials better determine where to target limited available funds for future cycling enhancements and improvements. This is the first time in the U.S. that data from mobile bike route tracking software will be used to help inform a long range transportation plan. Come find out more about the project!
More info on the project at: http://www.tjpdc.org/cvillebikemapp/index.asp
6.
Panel: Neighborhood/Community Planning
Tuesday, April 17th, 7-9pm
The Bridge PAI, 209 Monticello Road, Charlottesville
In cooperation with AIA Architecture Week. A who’s who of architecture and planning will discuss what makes this place so special and explore new models for community development. More at http://www.thebridgepai.com/2011/12/monticello-road-photography-by-peter-krebs/
7. Place Based Innovation: Social Entrepreneurs of Cville
Wednesday, April 18, 7pm; Venue TBA in Charlottesville
The Tom Tom Festival’s "Place Based Innovation" series looks at Social Entrepreneurs, individuals who strengthen our community and create collective value through capacity building and investment. At the center of this conversation will be two new initiatives in Charlottesville. The first is a new small business development program, the Community Investment Collaborative, who are taking a class of entrepreneurs through a 14 week training program. The second initiative is the Charlottesville Institute, an organization The Charlottesville Institute working to promote innovation and social change by harnessing the intellectual resources of UVa for the betterment of the Charlottesville community.
More at: http://www.tomtomfest.com/events/evententry/social-entrepreneurship
8. Community & School Gardeners Network with a Purpose
Thursday, April 19, 5-7pm
Sojourners UCC, Charlottesville
Join fellow gardeners to network with a purpose! Learn what's happening now in community/school gardens locally and participate in a facilitated discussion on ongoing challenges and opportunities, including:
1. Joint marketing of programs
2. Recruiting & maintaining volunteer support
3. Tool & seed sharing
4. Regular info-sharing so no one reinvents the wheel
5. Creation of a more formal network to raise profile of and support for local community/school gardens
Please RSVP to programs@thecne.org to confirm your attendance and forward this invite to anyone you think should be included. In your RSVP, we welcome your suggestions for other discussion topics.
9.
On-Farm Twilight Veggie Growers Meetings
May 22nd – Berry Simple Farm – Rick Crofford
June 19th – Waterpenny Farm – Rachel Bynum and Eric Plaksin (VABF members, organic CSA)
July 10th – Evergreen Acres – Jim Gehlsen (Organic vegetables, some no-till)
August 14th – Fauquier Education Farm
Virginia Cooperative Extension invites you to attend a series of on farm vegetable growers meetings scheduled from May through August. These meetings will be held at local farms in the area; a schedule of meetings is listed on the back of this letter.
We will meet at the host site at 6 pm for a tour of the farm, followed by a discussion of timely management practices. Virginia Cooperative Extension specialists will be available to address specific production topics and to examine foliage and insect samples from your farm. Light refreshments will be served.
Please RSVP to the Fauquier County Master Gardener help desk @ 540.341.7950 ext 219# or to tohlwile@vt.edu. There is no fee for attending.
Sincerely, Extension Agents Tim Ohlwiler (Horticulture), Jim Hankins (Small Farm Outreach), and Kenner Love (Crops and Soils).
10.
New Branch farm part-time work opportunity
We have a small farm, New Branch Farm, near Charlottesville and are looking for farm help 8-20 hours a week/ flexible schedule. We grow on an acre and sell the vegetables, strawberries, and flowers at City Market on Saturdays. Work would include greenhouse work (seeding and repotting), planting in the field, irrigation, weeding, harvesting, etc. The position could be several weeks or all season depending on the person's interest. If you are interested in talking more about the opportunity, email me at newbranchfarm@gmail.com
NEW BRANCH FARM
Charlottesville, Virginia
www.newbranchfarm.com
11.
99% Spring Action Training
Sunday, April 15th, 12-7pm
Location: 2303 Fontaine Ave., Apt 4
Drawing inspiration from Occupy Wall Street and Madison, Wisconsin, over 40 movement leaders and organizations have called for a 99% Spring, for citizens to train ourselves in non-violent action and join together in the work of reclaiming our country.
Our local Charlottesville workshop will focus on the planning and practice of non-violent direct action. The course is a broad overview intended for any group or individual interested in NVDA, and centers on non-arrestable actions. Any group or individual who is interested is invited to attend!
Visit http://civic.moveon.org/event/99spring/128817 to register.
12.
Green Building Institute’s Youth Environmental Coalition 2012
Youth ECo 2,000 sq.ft. Rain Garden Install & Celebration!
APRIL 14 - APRIL 20; Planting - Celebration
The Youth ECo (Environmental Coalition) Rain Garden Initiative is a program created by students for students and the community to learn about and engage in sustainability education and activities. This movement's goal is for long-lasting partnerships to be formed, students of all ages to get involved in an environmental project, and to ultimately help the health of our Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
rsvp to 443.733.1234; info@greenbuildinginstitute.org
13.
Common Good City Farm in Washington DC
Come celebrate with us as we begin our fifth season!
RSVP and come celebrate with us! Live music provided by Straight Up Tribal and food donated by Bacio Pizzeria and Fresh Start Catering.
April 14th, 2012 11:00 AM through 1:00 PM
334 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-559-7513
Email: info@commongoodcityfarm.org
14.
Bread for the City is seeking a Coordinator for a group of
organizations and individuals working to create a food policy council
in DC. (Job description below and here.) Our vision is for a
nourishing community in which all Washington, DC residents can enjoy a
nutritious, safe, and culturally appropriate diet provided by a local,
sustainable food system that fosters health, equity, interdependence,
and self-reliance. This position will coordinate the formation of a
robust, representative advisory body to realize this vision.
We're looking for someone to start in early April, so please help us
get the word out to your networks asap. Posting is here:
http://www.breadforthecity.org/get-involved/work/now-hiring-coordinator-dc-food-system-organizing-workgroup/.
Share away!
Full blog post with an update on the efforts of this group is here:
http://www.breadforthecity.org/2012/03/over-a-year-later-working-towards-a-food-policy-council/.
15.
Come Join Us at our third culturEvolution Camp
August 4th to August 12th
In Floyd County, Virginia
We invite you to join us on an eight-day adventure in co-creating a space for:
Deepening – Our relationship to the earth, each other, and ourselves
Exploring – Our individual, social, and global dynamics
Creating – Our next steps toward a
• more vibrant,
• meaningful,
• and delight-filled life
Come have fun and be nurtured in your personal evolution through movement and meditation, healthy food and river swims, creative language, ritual and music.
Share connection in a dynamic and experiential process of exploring the art of symbiosis and deep ecology.
www.culturevolution.info
16.
Barkslip’s Fruit School in West Virginia
Fruit Camp April 27. 28, 29
For those seeking their PhD in fruit
(Piled higher and Deeper)
Location and Dates:
Advanced Fruit School; Union, WV: May 4, 5, 6
This special 3 day session of advanced fruit school is exclusively offered to graduates of fruit school.
With the elementals behind us, cumulatively we can explore the leading edge of fruit and nut culture. All the while we will be developing a cooperative roundtable learning environment that appreciates all that want to contribute. Topics will be lead by Professor Barkslip, but open participation and discussion of information will be encouraged. There will be some hands on instruction and a field trip to Barkslip's nursery will be offered.
http://www.barkslip.com/fs_schedule.html
17.
You are invited to a reception to celebrate and support
C I T Y SCHOOLYARD GARDEN in Charlottesville
Please come for drinks, appetizers & conversation
Sunday, April 22nd at 7 p.m.
337 Monticello Road, Charlottesville
the home of Tim House and Wendy Philleo
RSVP by April 16th to Guinevere Higgins
foxgloveg@gmail.com or 434.806.6157
cityschoolyardgarden.org
18.
You Are Invited! A Taste of the Farm 2012 – Local Food Hub in Charlottesville, VA
Date: May 5, 2012
Time: 10am – 3pm
Cost: FREE!
Last year we had a blast, and this year we’ve got even more exciting things planned. Bring the whole family, stock up on healthy organic plants for your garden, have a picnic, and just enjoy a beautiful spring day on the farm. Check out what’s on the agenda:
· Pick up some organic and heirloom plant starts for your garden! Tomatoes, peppers, herbs, flowers, and more!
· Bring the kids and play some music with Blue Ridge Music Together!
· Pick up some farm fresh produce and eggs at our farmer’s market.
· Take a self-guided farm tour and see what we’re up to!
· Help us paint a mural and plant some seeds with City Schoolyard Garden.
· Take some photos in our photo booth with Lucy O Photography!
· Grab some food from Feast! and Vanguard Ranch, have a picnic, and enjoy the farm life!
RSVP on Facebook, or just show up! Interested in volunteering? Send us an email: info@localfoodhub.org.
Directions:
The farm is located at 7129 Scottsville Road, Scottsville VA, 24590.
· From the I-64 / 20S intersection (exit 121):
· Take Route 20 South towards Scottsville for approximately 15 miles.
· Maple Hill Farm will be on your left (there is a sign).
· The Farm is located approximately 2.5 miles past Green Mountain Country Store.
· Please use caution when turning in the driveway! People often drive very fast on Route 20, and the driveway is a bit of a blind turn. Use your signal early and often!
Questions: info@localfoodhub.org or (434) 286-2176.
http://localfoodhub.org/events/you-are-invited-a-taste-of-the-farm-2012/
19.
The Age of Limits gathering
Friday May 25th thru Monday May 28th, 2012
Memorial Day Weekend at Four Quarters
·Workshops for Understanding and Adapting to Decline
• Localized food production, transport and consumption.
• Debt based finance, fiat currencies and the global economy.
• Climate change, the current state of the science.
• Personal energy production and shelter creation.
• Fossil fuel production and consumption metrics.
• The new extended family and local community.
• Flexible livelihood and living in place.
• Understanding the limits of renewable energy systems.
For more information call or write our offices at
814-784-3080, office@4QF.org
or visit us at AgeofLimits.org and 4QF.org
Friday, April 13, 2012
Saturday, March 10, 2012
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below is an amazing collection of info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the central Virginia bioregion, including a wonderful array of fruit workshops.
If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
1.
SOURWOOD FARM WORKSHOP AND BEES FOR SALE
Shiitake and Oyster Mushroom Workshop
Saturday, March 17 12pm - 4/5pm
This workshop will cover the basics of Shiitake and Oyster mushroom cultivation. How to pick and harvest logs, inoculation methods, mushroom log care and harvesting. The primary focus and fun of the workshop will be inoculating pre-harvested logs for participants to take home. Workshop will be rain or shine as inoculation area is under cover. Please bring raincoat/umbrella to view the mushroom log yard. Wear work clothes and bring gloves as we will be working with hot wax and logs (ear plugs will be provided).
Cost: $50 ($70 for a couple) This includes one Oyster or Shiitake log to take home
$100 ($115 for a couple) This includes 5 Oyster or Shiitake logs to take home (that comes out to $12.50 each for the extra logs which I sell for $20-25 retail)
www.sourwoodfarm.com
Sourwood Farm
2012 Nucs (Bees) For Sale
Inquire about timing and availability. Limited supply; first come, first served.
$125 includes: Nuc made from solely from bees that overwintered in my yards; marked queen that I raised this spring from hives that survived this winter in my bee yards; 5 deep frames of drawn comb , no foundation; 2 or more frames of brood; 1 frame of honey; 1 frame of pollen/mix; No frame exchange.
$155 includes: With this you get a overwintered proven queen that has sustained a healthy colony overwinter plus everything above. Only 3-4 and they will be available. Pickup will be available at an earlier date late march through mid April.
Sourwood Farm
Ryan Williamson
4646 Buddys Place Ln
Earlysville, VA 22936
gotakeawalk@yahoo.com
www.sourwoodfarm.com
434-973-6032
2.
Richard Louv talk: Ending Nature-Deficit Disorder
March 15th at 7pm
--The Paramount Theater in Charlottesville
The Piedmont Environmental Council is excited to bring Richard Louv, best-selling author of Last Child in the Woods and The Nature Principle, to the Piedmont. Mr. Louv offers a vision of the future, in which our lives are as immersed in nature as they are in technology. We're expecting the tickets to sell quickly, so reserve yours today and mark your calendar! Tickets are $12 per adult and $8 per student.
http://www.pecva.org/index.php/our-mission/communities/440-pec-welcomes-best-selling-author-richard-louv
3.
Fruit Grafting and Propagation - All Day Intensive
When: Saturday, April 7, 2012, 9 AM to 5 PM
Where: 912 Woodfolk Drive, Charlottesville VA, 22902
We will start in the morning with hands-on instruction in fruit propagation. Participants will learn how to prepare fruit tree seeds for planting, how to root fruiting plants, and how to graft. Numerous propagation techniques will be demonstrated, including: Whip and tongue grafting and saddle grafting for young trees. Bark grafting and cleft grafting
for more mature rootstock. Specialized grafting for nuts and hardwoods. Chip bud and tee bud grafting. Rooting cuttings, ground and air layering. Specialized techniques for propagating blueberries and hard to root plants. Later in the day we will have a more general discussion of growing fruit and nuts in Virginia without pesticides and fungicides. The focus will be on techniques that can be used at home with a minimum of tools and expense. Each participant will have the opportunity to take home five fruit trees that they graft themselves. Rootstock and scions (grafting wood) will be provided, as well as a grafting knife.
Registration Contact: Alexis Zeigler, alexis@conev.org, 434-409-6006
Cost: $50, checks made payable to Living Energy Farm
4.
Part time gardener positions at Montfair Resort Farm in White Hall, VA near Crozet. $12.00 per hour to start (potential for increase wage as well). Some one to help get the season started out with a good weeding and some new perennials added and then a maintenance weeding every few weeks. Gardens are established enough that it is pretty low maintenance but does need some intensive work to get it started, lots of blackberry brambles and crab grass have snuck in! E-mail daveandleora@gmail.com or call # 434.823.1860.
5.
A Central Virginia Food Heritage Gathering
You are invited to join the first free “Food Heritage: A Central Virginia Gathering” where people will learn and share knowledge about the special food heritage of our Virginia Piedmont region.
When and where:
Monday, March 26, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Lane Auditorium, Albemarle County building in Charlottesville—401 McIntire Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22902
• Map out old farms, orchards, and mills
• Share your food stories through interviews
• Brainstorm ways to revive our local food heritage and promote a more sustainable future
• Enjoy a seed and plant swap and a sampling of heritage foods
Help us honor our local food heritage and lay the groundwork for growing a strong, healthy future for Albemarle, Greene, Fluvanna, Louisa, and Nelson Counties and the City of Charlottesville! Please join us! Feel free to bring guests, and walk-ins are welcome too.
If you think that you might attend, please RSVP to Paul Loren Hughes at vafoodheritage@gmail.com at or to Ellen Martin at (434) 924-1970.
http://vafoodheritage.com/
6.
Vintage Virginia Apples – Cidermaker’s Forum
May 5, 2012
Albemarle CiderWorks hosts a Cider Maker's Forum annually dedicated to promoting the art and science of finely crafted fermented cider. Lunch included. $125.
http://vintage-virginia-apples.myshopify.com/collections/workshops
7.
Local Food Hub workshops
Beginning Beekeeping
Date: Sunday, April 1, 2012
Time: 9:00am – 3:30 pm
Location: Ivy Creek Natural Area, Charlottesville VA
Cost: $35 (attendees must also purchase The Beekeeper’s Handbook, 4th Edition before the class)
RSVP: info@localfoodhub.org or (434) 286-2176
Diversified Fruit Production/Edible Landscaping
Join us for a workshop on home fruit production, taught by Michael McConkey from Edible Landscaping. During this three-hour course, Michael will discuss:
• the kinds of fruit that grow well in this region, including native and exotic choices beyond typical orchard varieties.
• planning your edible yard: choosing and preparing a site, pest management, upkeep for optimal success.
• propagation techniques and future steps.
Michael will also bring plants available for purchase after class.
Date: Thursday, May 17, 2012
Time: 4 – 7 pm
Location: Maple Hill Farm, Scottsville VA
Cost: $35
RSVP: info@localfoodhub.org or (434) 286-2176
Sustainable Soil Management for Small Farms
Drawing on more than 20 years of self-taught soil science, Mark Schonbeck is a scientist and writer with expertise in organic vegetable production and in organic soil and weed management.
Date: Thursday, March 15, 2012
Time: 4-7 pm
Location: Maple Hill Farm, Scottsville VA
Cost: $25
RSVP: info@localfoodhub.org or (434) 286-2176
http://www.eventbrite.com/org/1915657387?s=7009333
8.
Farm Manager position for the Catawba Sustainability Center
The Virginia Tech Catawba Sustainability Center (CSC) is a 377-acre farm in Catawba, VA. The CSC is located about 15 minutes from Roanoke and 35 minutes from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA. The mission of the CSC is to serve as community hub advancing economic growth and environmental stewardship. The CSC supports beginning farmers through its incubation program, VT EarthWorks, by offering educational programs, land and infrastructure, access to local farmers markets, networking with potential sales outlets, and other business development resources.
The CSC is hiring a farm manager/ mentor 1) to grow organic produce at the Catawba Sustainability Center for Preston’s Restaurant, and 2) to offer workshops and serve as an educational resource for beginning farmers and other visitors.
Application procedure:
Interested applicants, please submit a cover letter and resume to Karie Gilliam at karieg@vt.edu
9.
Tools for Growing Change: Urban and Community Gardening workshop
SAT. March 24th at Lynchburg College
with Tom Benevento of New Community Project
9:30 am – 4:30 pm
FREE full-day urban-garden workshop at:
This seminar is designed to explore and share tools to help you create vibrant food producing systems for social and ecological change at home and in your community. Explore design options for "whole-yard" growing that reduces weeding, saves water, space and time, and brings beauty to your home. Learn techniques in ecological gardening that integrate annual and perennial plants that grow fertility. Then, move beyond the home scale to powerful models that inspire growing in the broader community. Learn the
steps on how to start a community garden, a school garden, and a fossil fuel free market garden that empowers people. Discover ways to access local resources and "project power" to get your vision off the ground. This seminar will include hands-on garden construction, group sharing, and models that are specific to Virginia.
Registration is required as seating is limited. To save a seat, reply to: yos@lynchburg.edu
10.
Permaculture Work-Exchange/Room (Board) with Employment Opportunities
The Silver Sage House and Studio: Ctr. for Transformational Studies, a 1991 classic-styled Victorian house located in Charlottesville, VA, is offering short-term and long-term room and board in its first level’s private furnished studio apartment for a permaculture small-farming and training work exchange, now available immediately. Throughout the year, the Silver Sage House and Studio offers unique and beautiful mountain view lodging accommodations. An ideal choice for a Virginia getaway, this educational/recreational and residential hub is a tranquil, 10-acre all-natural, sustainable small farm located just 4 miles from Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall in close proximity to a wide variety of area attractions.
At present, this permaculture farming work exchange is now at the very early beginning stages that consists of a couple fruit-bearing apple trees, several raised garden beds and rain barrel equipment ready to be installed. Furthermore, there will be much more opportunity to expand creative sustainability. Our vision is to include more gardening and farming plots that will require managing food preparation, preservation, and production, as well as raising chickens and grazing goats within a food co-op for training purposes.
Therefore, this plan could offer additional employment opportunities that could include tours, classes, and workshops. Along with these offerings, we can also even envision a part-time café that may promote energy saving, creative living and the merits of producing local, healthy foods.
Please contact: Linda Capacchione (434) 296-1338
11.
EQIP Organic Initiative Signup is Open - opportunity for cost share on conservation practices
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is inviting applications for the 2012 EQIP Organic Initiative, which offers cost-share for conservation practices that will help with the transition to organic production, such as cover cropping, conservation crop rotation, conservation buffer and beneficial habitat plantings, as well as prescribed grazing, forage planting, fencing, and other livestock management practices related to resource conservation. You can also get cost share for a High Tunnel either as part of an Organic Initiative contract, or as a stand alone practice. This is an excellent opportunity to receive some financial assistance to farm at the high level of land/resource stewardship that you would like to achieve. The EQIP Organic Initiative is now available for signup for the 2012 growing season. Applications for the next ranking period are due by March 30, and there will be an additional signup this year, with a deadline of June 1. The Virginia NRCS state office has asked district NRCS staff to promote the Organic Initiative and encourage organic and transitioning-organic farmers to participate.
Ron Wood
Virginia NRCS
804 287-1660
You can also find more information about the EQIP Organic Initiative in Virginia at http://www.va.nrcs.usda.gov/,
12.
Buford City Schoolyard Garden
Charlottesville, VA
Trail Restoration Work Day
March 18, 2012 from 2 pm – 5 pm: Join us for a community work day to restore the Buford Forest Trail that runs through the creeks behind the school's athletic fields. Opportunistic species have taken over the trail and trees, restricting student and community member access to this beautiful city hideaway. With your help we plan to restore the health of this forest ecosystem and begin replanting both native and edible species that will thrive in this moisture-rich, shady environment. There will be food and drinks for all volunteers! Please RSVP to Emily Axelbaum at emily@cityschoolyardgarden.org or (314)799-9394.
Introduction to Gardening Workshop
March 24, 2012 from 10 am – 12 pm: Come out for a hands-on workshop designed for beginner and seasoned gardeners alike. The morning will cover garden siting, soil preparation, predator control, planting, maintenance, and harvesting techniques. The course is free with a suggested donation of $10.00 for those able to further support CSG garden programming. Money raised will go toward seed-starting equipment for the Buford Garden. The course will be taught by Buford garden educator Emily Axelbaum and Guinevere Higgins of Blue Ridge Backyard Harvest. We will be there rain or shine and space is limited so RSVP soon to Emily at emily@cityschoolyardgarden.org or (314)799-9394.
http://www.cityschoolyardgarden.org/kids-blog/at-buford/
13.
Farm Internship positions open
We are Our House Farm a 3.5 acre, organically-certified vegetable farm with a flock of 100 free-range laying hens. Our farm, an LLC, is located on the land of Our House, a residential job-training center for at-risk teenage boys. Our House Farm is located 45 minutes north of Washington, D.C. in Brookeville, Maryland. Internship positions are 40 hours per week.
Please forward resume and cover letter to Edwin Gould at pottergould@gmail.com and Marc Grossman at marcgrossman2001@yahoo.com . Call Marc Grossman at 202 412 5698 for more information concerning the internship.
Our House Farm
Organic produce & eggs from free-range hens
19715 Zion Rd. Brookeville, MD
OurHouseFarmMD.com
14.
INTERN, SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE FOOD SYSTEMS
Arlington, VA office (metro accessible)
The Wallace Center seeks an intern from spring through summer 2012, with some flexibility on duration from 3 to 6 months. The Intern will provide support to outreach, provision of technical assistance, research, conferences and meetings, and communications across Wallace Center projects.
This position offers the successful candidate a diverse and meaningful experience in the area of food systems with a dynamic and leading organization in the field. Salary is $12/hour.
| www.wallacecenter.org
15.
Save the Date-- Edible Food Fest in Orange Virginia
August 11, 2012
http://ediblefest.com/2012/events/
16.
Harvest Table Farm Internship Internship opportunity in sustainable agriculture:
Description: Harvest Table Farm in Meadowview, Virginia, is seeking an intern for the 2012 summer growing season to assist with all aspects of an integrated farm-to- table operation. This is a unique opportunity to experience and participate in the ecological farming movement through a program that connects sustainable and innovative production methods directly to The Harvest Table Restaurant, southwest Virginia's leading local foods establishment. The farm is also connected to our community through weekly attendance and sales at the Abingdon farmers’ market, and through regularly scheduled tours and demonstrations we offer to our restaurant customers, school groups, and local volunteers.
Interested applicants should send a letter or e-letter of inquiry to:
Matt Sanders, farm manager Harvest Table Farm 28413 Smyth Chapel Road Meadowview, VA 24361 matt@meadowviewfarmersguild.com
www.meadowviewfarmersguild.com/Farm.html
17.
Advanced Fruit School
Asheville, NC: March 31 & April 1st
Union, WV: May 5, 6
This special 2 day session of fruit school is exclusively offered to graduates of fruit school or people who have accumulated proficiency and practical experience in horticulture especially around fruits and nuts.
With the elementals behind us, cumulatively we can explore the leading edge of fruit and nut culture. All the while we will be developing a cooperative roundtable learning environment that appreciates all that want to contribute. Topics will be lead by Professor Barkslip, but open participation and discussion of information will be encouraged. There will be some hands on instruction and a field trip to Barkslip's nursery will be offered.
http://www.barkslip.com/fs_schedule.html
18.
VABF Seeks to Hire Part-time Director
Applications Accepted during March, 2012
The Virginia Association for Biological Farming seeks to hire a qualified Executive Director to coordinate and focus our efforts to promote sustainable agriculture through grant-funded research, public farm events, the website, social networking, the newsletter, and development of a farmer mentoring network. See attached ED Job Description word file for more information and application directions. Questions? Contact:
Rick Felker: email: organic@mattawomancreekfarms.com or phone: 757 678 5731
Kevin Fletcher: e-mail kevin@countrysidenaturals.com, or phone 540-946-8080
Kathy O'Hara: email: ohara.kathy1@gmail.com or phone 540 798 2252
19.
SustainFloyd Hiring Curriculum Coordinator for Working Model Farm
Application Deadline 4:00 pm March 27, 2012
SustainFloyd is a grassroots community development 501(c)3 organization seeking to develop a resilient and sustainable rural economy for Floyd County. SustainFloyd is hiring a Curriculum/Project Coordinator to work with the farm manager and others to establish a hands-on new farmer education and training program. The program will be delivered at SustainFloyd's Working Model Farm and Land-Based Learning Center, a working organic farm in Floyd county.
The Curriculum Coordinator position will be an integral part of our project and will provide an invigorating, engaging and collaborative atmosphere to create something unique to Southwest Virginia. The position is funded through a subaward from The Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project.
Any questions concerning the project or the application must be directed to:
Name Michael Burton, Director, SustainFloyd
Address: 203 S Locust St, Suite H, Floyd VA 24091
Phone (540) 250-0111
Email info@SustainFloyd.org
20.
MID-ATLANTIC ORGANIC HONEY BEE CONVENTION
Saturday, March 17
Richmond, VA
$30-$35
More info and registration here: http://valleybees.org/2012/02/08/mid-atlantic-organic-honey-bee-convention/
21.
The James River Green Building Council presents the 2012 GreenSpaces Design Competition:
The 2012 Green Spaces Design Competition: Breaking Away, addresses Richmond’s Mayo Island and 14th Street Bridge, which serve as both significant transitions and destinations. Using Richmond’s recent win to host the 2015 Road World Championship cycling races, competition entrants are asked to propose economically, culturally and environmentally responsible tourism and recreation-based solutions for Mayo Island that critically examine the lasting impact of the 2015 Road World Championships and the role Mayo Island plays in Richmond’s past, present and future. We are extending the deadline for registration until April 13th which is also when entries are due.
See the JRGBC website for entry, sponsorship and registration details.
www.jrgbc.org
22.
Fifth Annual Virginia Berry Production and Marketing Conference
Virginia State University that will take place on March 15, 2012 from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. $15.
For registration please visit: http://tinyurl.com/vaberry2012reg
Below is an amazing collection of info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the central Virginia bioregion, including a wonderful array of fruit workshops.
If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
1.
SOURWOOD FARM WORKSHOP AND BEES FOR SALE
Shiitake and Oyster Mushroom Workshop
Saturday, March 17 12pm - 4/5pm
This workshop will cover the basics of Shiitake and Oyster mushroom cultivation. How to pick and harvest logs, inoculation methods, mushroom log care and harvesting. The primary focus and fun of the workshop will be inoculating pre-harvested logs for participants to take home. Workshop will be rain or shine as inoculation area is under cover. Please bring raincoat/umbrella to view the mushroom log yard. Wear work clothes and bring gloves as we will be working with hot wax and logs (ear plugs will be provided).
Cost: $50 ($70 for a couple) This includes one Oyster or Shiitake log to take home
$100 ($115 for a couple) This includes 5 Oyster or Shiitake logs to take home (that comes out to $12.50 each for the extra logs which I sell for $20-25 retail)
www.sourwoodfarm.com
Sourwood Farm
2012 Nucs (Bees) For Sale
Inquire about timing and availability. Limited supply; first come, first served.
$125 includes: Nuc made from solely from bees that overwintered in my yards; marked queen that I raised this spring from hives that survived this winter in my bee yards; 5 deep frames of drawn comb , no foundation; 2 or more frames of brood; 1 frame of honey; 1 frame of pollen/mix; No frame exchange.
$155 includes: With this you get a overwintered proven queen that has sustained a healthy colony overwinter plus everything above. Only 3-4 and they will be available. Pickup will be available at an earlier date late march through mid April.
Sourwood Farm
Ryan Williamson
4646 Buddys Place Ln
Earlysville, VA 22936
gotakeawalk@yahoo.com
www.sourwoodfarm.com
434-973-6032
2.
Richard Louv talk: Ending Nature-Deficit Disorder
March 15th at 7pm
--The Paramount Theater in Charlottesville
The Piedmont Environmental Council is excited to bring Richard Louv, best-selling author of Last Child in the Woods and The Nature Principle, to the Piedmont. Mr. Louv offers a vision of the future, in which our lives are as immersed in nature as they are in technology. We're expecting the tickets to sell quickly, so reserve yours today and mark your calendar! Tickets are $12 per adult and $8 per student.
http://www.pecva.org/index.php/our-mission/communities/440-pec-welcomes-best-selling-author-richard-louv
3.
Fruit Grafting and Propagation - All Day Intensive
When: Saturday, April 7, 2012, 9 AM to 5 PM
Where: 912 Woodfolk Drive, Charlottesville VA, 22902
We will start in the morning with hands-on instruction in fruit propagation. Participants will learn how to prepare fruit tree seeds for planting, how to root fruiting plants, and how to graft. Numerous propagation techniques will be demonstrated, including: Whip and tongue grafting and saddle grafting for young trees. Bark grafting and cleft grafting
for more mature rootstock. Specialized grafting for nuts and hardwoods. Chip bud and tee bud grafting. Rooting cuttings, ground and air layering. Specialized techniques for propagating blueberries and hard to root plants. Later in the day we will have a more general discussion of growing fruit and nuts in Virginia without pesticides and fungicides. The focus will be on techniques that can be used at home with a minimum of tools and expense. Each participant will have the opportunity to take home five fruit trees that they graft themselves. Rootstock and scions (grafting wood) will be provided, as well as a grafting knife.
Registration Contact: Alexis Zeigler, alexis@conev.org, 434-409-6006
Cost: $50, checks made payable to Living Energy Farm
4.
Part time gardener positions at Montfair Resort Farm in White Hall, VA near Crozet. $12.00 per hour to start (potential for increase wage as well). Some one to help get the season started out with a good weeding and some new perennials added and then a maintenance weeding every few weeks. Gardens are established enough that it is pretty low maintenance but does need some intensive work to get it started, lots of blackberry brambles and crab grass have snuck in! E-mail daveandleora@gmail.com or call # 434.823.1860.
5.
A Central Virginia Food Heritage Gathering
You are invited to join the first free “Food Heritage: A Central Virginia Gathering” where people will learn and share knowledge about the special food heritage of our Virginia Piedmont region.
When and where:
Monday, March 26, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Lane Auditorium, Albemarle County building in Charlottesville—401 McIntire Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22902
• Map out old farms, orchards, and mills
• Share your food stories through interviews
• Brainstorm ways to revive our local food heritage and promote a more sustainable future
• Enjoy a seed and plant swap and a sampling of heritage foods
Help us honor our local food heritage and lay the groundwork for growing a strong, healthy future for Albemarle, Greene, Fluvanna, Louisa, and Nelson Counties and the City of Charlottesville! Please join us! Feel free to bring guests, and walk-ins are welcome too.
If you think that you might attend, please RSVP to Paul Loren Hughes at vafoodheritage@gmail.com at or to Ellen Martin at (434) 924-1970.
http://vafoodheritage.com/
6.
Vintage Virginia Apples – Cidermaker’s Forum
May 5, 2012
Albemarle CiderWorks hosts a Cider Maker's Forum annually dedicated to promoting the art and science of finely crafted fermented cider. Lunch included. $125.
http://vintage-virginia-apples.myshopify.com/collections/workshops
7.
Local Food Hub workshops
Beginning Beekeeping
Date: Sunday, April 1, 2012
Time: 9:00am – 3:30 pm
Location: Ivy Creek Natural Area, Charlottesville VA
Cost: $35 (attendees must also purchase The Beekeeper’s Handbook, 4th Edition before the class)
RSVP: info@localfoodhub.org or (434) 286-2176
Diversified Fruit Production/Edible Landscaping
Join us for a workshop on home fruit production, taught by Michael McConkey from Edible Landscaping. During this three-hour course, Michael will discuss:
• the kinds of fruit that grow well in this region, including native and exotic choices beyond typical orchard varieties.
• planning your edible yard: choosing and preparing a site, pest management, upkeep for optimal success.
• propagation techniques and future steps.
Michael will also bring plants available for purchase after class.
Date: Thursday, May 17, 2012
Time: 4 – 7 pm
Location: Maple Hill Farm, Scottsville VA
Cost: $35
RSVP: info@localfoodhub.org or (434) 286-2176
Sustainable Soil Management for Small Farms
Drawing on more than 20 years of self-taught soil science, Mark Schonbeck is a scientist and writer with expertise in organic vegetable production and in organic soil and weed management.
Date: Thursday, March 15, 2012
Time: 4-7 pm
Location: Maple Hill Farm, Scottsville VA
Cost: $25
RSVP: info@localfoodhub.org or (434) 286-2176
http://www.eventbrite.com/org/1915657387?s=7009333
8.
Farm Manager position for the Catawba Sustainability Center
The Virginia Tech Catawba Sustainability Center (CSC) is a 377-acre farm in Catawba, VA. The CSC is located about 15 minutes from Roanoke and 35 minutes from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA. The mission of the CSC is to serve as community hub advancing economic growth and environmental stewardship. The CSC supports beginning farmers through its incubation program, VT EarthWorks, by offering educational programs, land and infrastructure, access to local farmers markets, networking with potential sales outlets, and other business development resources.
The CSC is hiring a farm manager/ mentor 1) to grow organic produce at the Catawba Sustainability Center for Preston’s Restaurant, and 2) to offer workshops and serve as an educational resource for beginning farmers and other visitors.
Application procedure:
Interested applicants, please submit a cover letter and resume to Karie Gilliam at karieg@vt.edu
9.
Tools for Growing Change: Urban and Community Gardening workshop
SAT. March 24th at Lynchburg College
with Tom Benevento of New Community Project
9:30 am – 4:30 pm
FREE full-day urban-garden workshop at:
This seminar is designed to explore and share tools to help you create vibrant food producing systems for social and ecological change at home and in your community. Explore design options for "whole-yard" growing that reduces weeding, saves water, space and time, and brings beauty to your home. Learn techniques in ecological gardening that integrate annual and perennial plants that grow fertility. Then, move beyond the home scale to powerful models that inspire growing in the broader community. Learn the
steps on how to start a community garden, a school garden, and a fossil fuel free market garden that empowers people. Discover ways to access local resources and "project power" to get your vision off the ground. This seminar will include hands-on garden construction, group sharing, and models that are specific to Virginia.
Registration is required as seating is limited. To save a seat, reply to: yos@lynchburg.edu
10.
Permaculture Work-Exchange/Room (Board) with Employment Opportunities
The Silver Sage House and Studio: Ctr. for Transformational Studies, a 1991 classic-styled Victorian house located in Charlottesville, VA, is offering short-term and long-term room and board in its first level’s private furnished studio apartment for a permaculture small-farming and training work exchange, now available immediately. Throughout the year, the Silver Sage House and Studio offers unique and beautiful mountain view lodging accommodations. An ideal choice for a Virginia getaway, this educational/recreational and residential hub is a tranquil, 10-acre all-natural, sustainable small farm located just 4 miles from Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall in close proximity to a wide variety of area attractions.
At present, this permaculture farming work exchange is now at the very early beginning stages that consists of a couple fruit-bearing apple trees, several raised garden beds and rain barrel equipment ready to be installed. Furthermore, there will be much more opportunity to expand creative sustainability. Our vision is to include more gardening and farming plots that will require managing food preparation, preservation, and production, as well as raising chickens and grazing goats within a food co-op for training purposes.
Therefore, this plan could offer additional employment opportunities that could include tours, classes, and workshops. Along with these offerings, we can also even envision a part-time café that may promote energy saving, creative living and the merits of producing local, healthy foods.
Please contact: Linda Capacchione (434) 296-1338
11.
EQIP Organic Initiative Signup is Open - opportunity for cost share on conservation practices
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is inviting applications for the 2012 EQIP Organic Initiative, which offers cost-share for conservation practices that will help with the transition to organic production, such as cover cropping, conservation crop rotation, conservation buffer and beneficial habitat plantings, as well as prescribed grazing, forage planting, fencing, and other livestock management practices related to resource conservation. You can also get cost share for a High Tunnel either as part of an Organic Initiative contract, or as a stand alone practice. This is an excellent opportunity to receive some financial assistance to farm at the high level of land/resource stewardship that you would like to achieve. The EQIP Organic Initiative is now available for signup for the 2012 growing season. Applications for the next ranking period are due by March 30, and there will be an additional signup this year, with a deadline of June 1. The Virginia NRCS state office has asked district NRCS staff to promote the Organic Initiative and encourage organic and transitioning-organic farmers to participate.
Ron Wood
Virginia NRCS
804 287-1660
You can also find more information about the EQIP Organic Initiative in Virginia at http://www.va.nrcs.usda.gov/,
12.
Buford City Schoolyard Garden
Charlottesville, VA
Trail Restoration Work Day
March 18, 2012 from 2 pm – 5 pm: Join us for a community work day to restore the Buford Forest Trail that runs through the creeks behind the school's athletic fields. Opportunistic species have taken over the trail and trees, restricting student and community member access to this beautiful city hideaway. With your help we plan to restore the health of this forest ecosystem and begin replanting both native and edible species that will thrive in this moisture-rich, shady environment. There will be food and drinks for all volunteers! Please RSVP to Emily Axelbaum at emily@cityschoolyardgarden.org or (314)799-9394.
Introduction to Gardening Workshop
March 24, 2012 from 10 am – 12 pm: Come out for a hands-on workshop designed for beginner and seasoned gardeners alike. The morning will cover garden siting, soil preparation, predator control, planting, maintenance, and harvesting techniques. The course is free with a suggested donation of $10.00 for those able to further support CSG garden programming. Money raised will go toward seed-starting equipment for the Buford Garden. The course will be taught by Buford garden educator Emily Axelbaum and Guinevere Higgins of Blue Ridge Backyard Harvest. We will be there rain or shine and space is limited so RSVP soon to Emily at emily@cityschoolyardgarden.org or (314)799-9394.
http://www.cityschoolyardgarden.org/kids-blog/at-buford/
13.
Farm Internship positions open
We are Our House Farm a 3.5 acre, organically-certified vegetable farm with a flock of 100 free-range laying hens. Our farm, an LLC, is located on the land of Our House, a residential job-training center for at-risk teenage boys. Our House Farm is located 45 minutes north of Washington, D.C. in Brookeville, Maryland. Internship positions are 40 hours per week.
Please forward resume and cover letter to Edwin Gould at pottergould@gmail.com and Marc Grossman at marcgrossman2001@yahoo.com . Call Marc Grossman at 202 412 5698 for more information concerning the internship.
Our House Farm
Organic produce & eggs from free-range hens
19715 Zion Rd. Brookeville, MD
OurHouseFarmMD.com
14.
INTERN, SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE FOOD SYSTEMS
Arlington, VA office (metro accessible)
The Wallace Center seeks an intern from spring through summer 2012, with some flexibility on duration from 3 to 6 months. The Intern will provide support to outreach, provision of technical assistance, research, conferences and meetings, and communications across Wallace Center projects.
This position offers the successful candidate a diverse and meaningful experience in the area of food systems with a dynamic and leading organization in the field. Salary is $12/hour.
| www.wallacecenter.org
15.
Save the Date-- Edible Food Fest in Orange Virginia
August 11, 2012
http://ediblefest.com/2012/events/
16.
Harvest Table Farm Internship Internship opportunity in sustainable agriculture:
Description: Harvest Table Farm in Meadowview, Virginia, is seeking an intern for the 2012 summer growing season to assist with all aspects of an integrated farm-to- table operation. This is a unique opportunity to experience and participate in the ecological farming movement through a program that connects sustainable and innovative production methods directly to The Harvest Table Restaurant, southwest Virginia's leading local foods establishment. The farm is also connected to our community through weekly attendance and sales at the Abingdon farmers’ market, and through regularly scheduled tours and demonstrations we offer to our restaurant customers, school groups, and local volunteers.
Interested applicants should send a letter or e-letter of inquiry to:
Matt Sanders, farm manager Harvest Table Farm 28413 Smyth Chapel Road Meadowview, VA 24361 matt@meadowviewfarmersguild.com
www.meadowviewfarmersguild.com/Farm.html
17.
Advanced Fruit School
Asheville, NC: March 31 & April 1st
Union, WV: May 5, 6
This special 2 day session of fruit school is exclusively offered to graduates of fruit school or people who have accumulated proficiency and practical experience in horticulture especially around fruits and nuts.
With the elementals behind us, cumulatively we can explore the leading edge of fruit and nut culture. All the while we will be developing a cooperative roundtable learning environment that appreciates all that want to contribute. Topics will be lead by Professor Barkslip, but open participation and discussion of information will be encouraged. There will be some hands on instruction and a field trip to Barkslip's nursery will be offered.
http://www.barkslip.com/fs_schedule.html
18.
VABF Seeks to Hire Part-time Director
Applications Accepted during March, 2012
The Virginia Association for Biological Farming seeks to hire a qualified Executive Director to coordinate and focus our efforts to promote sustainable agriculture through grant-funded research, public farm events, the website, social networking, the newsletter, and development of a farmer mentoring network. See attached ED Job Description word file for more information and application directions. Questions? Contact:
Rick Felker: email: organic@mattawomancreekfarms.com or phone: 757 678 5731
Kevin Fletcher: e-mail kevin@countrysidenaturals.com, or phone 540-946-8080
Kathy O'Hara: email: ohara.kathy1@gmail.com or phone 540 798 2252
19.
SustainFloyd Hiring Curriculum Coordinator for Working Model Farm
Application Deadline 4:00 pm March 27, 2012
SustainFloyd is a grassroots community development 501(c)3 organization seeking to develop a resilient and sustainable rural economy for Floyd County. SustainFloyd is hiring a Curriculum/Project Coordinator to work with the farm manager and others to establish a hands-on new farmer education and training program. The program will be delivered at SustainFloyd's Working Model Farm and Land-Based Learning Center, a working organic farm in Floyd county.
The Curriculum Coordinator position will be an integral part of our project and will provide an invigorating, engaging and collaborative atmosphere to create something unique to Southwest Virginia. The position is funded through a subaward from The Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project.
Any questions concerning the project or the application must be directed to:
Name Michael Burton, Director, SustainFloyd
Address: 203 S Locust St, Suite H, Floyd VA 24091
Phone (540) 250-0111
Email info@SustainFloyd.org
20.
MID-ATLANTIC ORGANIC HONEY BEE CONVENTION
Saturday, March 17
Richmond, VA
$30-$35
More info and registration here: http://valleybees.org/2012/02/08/mid-atlantic-organic-honey-bee-convention/
21.
The James River Green Building Council presents the 2012 GreenSpaces Design Competition:
The 2012 Green Spaces Design Competition: Breaking Away, addresses Richmond’s Mayo Island and 14th Street Bridge, which serve as both significant transitions and destinations. Using Richmond’s recent win to host the 2015 Road World Championship cycling races, competition entrants are asked to propose economically, culturally and environmentally responsible tourism and recreation-based solutions for Mayo Island that critically examine the lasting impact of the 2015 Road World Championships and the role Mayo Island plays in Richmond’s past, present and future. We are extending the deadline for registration until April 13th which is also when entries are due.
See the JRGBC website for entry, sponsorship and registration details.
www.jrgbc.org
22.
Fifth Annual Virginia Berry Production and Marketing Conference
Virginia State University that will take place on March 15, 2012 from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. $15.
For registration please visit: http://tinyurl.com/vaberry2012reg
Friday, February 17, 2012
addendum: upcoming events
1.
Transition Charlottesville/Albemarle monthly meetings on the 4th Monday (the next one is Feb. 27) at the downtown Charlottesville library in the McIntire room. 6:30 pm for a meet-and-greet potluck followed by a meeting. For people to get on the email list sign up at the www.transitioncville.org website.
2.
Unity's Love University Presents
What is an EcoVillage? Why is it Important?
With Douglas Olson
Tuesday, March 6
7-9pm in the Sanctuary at Unity Church in Charlottesville
Ecovillages are urban or rural communities of people, who strive to integrate a supportive social environment with a low-impact way of life. To achieve this, they integrate various aspects of ecological design, permaculture, ecological building, green production, alternative energy, community building practices, and much more.
Topics Include:
* Understanding Eco-concerns and need for Eco-Action
* Experiencing a meeting conducted with awareness of Dynamic Governance
* Awareness of Permaculture, Transition Towns, Zero Energy Dwellings, Restorative Circles, and Living Machines.
* Charter for Compassion
Douglas Olson has been a member of Unity of Charlottesville for over twenty years. In addition to being a business owner and entrepreneur, Douglas has been an active member of a men’s group, an actor with Presence Center for Applied Theatre Arts, a member of a Compassionate Communication (aka NVC) practice group, is the senior active member and past president of Vinegar Hill Toastmasters Club, and co founder of Peace Talks. Douglas has taught public speaking to Public Housing Association of Residents (PHAR Interns) in Charlottesville for five years and (and NVC for one year). Douglas has active plans to establish an eco-village in Charlottesville.
Conservation Innovation Grants in Virginia - Call for Pre-proposals
Due date for pre-proposals is March 30.
http://www.unitycville.org/activities/activities.htm
3.
Virginia Beginning Farmer Connections - a new blog for beginning and aspiring farmers
Kelli Scott, Farm Mentor Coordinator for the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project, announces a new blog for beginning farmers, the VIRGINIA BEGINNING FARMER CONNECTIONS, which can be accessed at: http://news.cals.vt.edu/vabeginningfarmer/, or through the Coalition website;http://www.vabeginningfarmer.org
Once you go to CONNECTIONS~, you will see a Contact page & an About page, which has a lot of info on the blog management. The blog posts are housed in 4 different categories; Home (General), Equipment/Farm Related Sales, Farmer/Mentoring/Internship Opportunities, and Land.
Home contains general posts about the project, events, and opportunities.
Equipment / Farm Related Sales contains the Virginia Beginning Farmer Marketplace, a classified section for anything farm related, Wanted or For Sale.
Farmer Mentoring / Internship Opportunities contains posts related to job postings, apprenticeships, internships, volunteer programs, mentors, work study, etc...
Land contains posts related to land wanted, land for sale, leases, landowners looking for beginning farmers, etc...
If you have something to post to VIRGINIA BEGINNING FARMER CONNECTIONS, or if you have any questions about the new blog,
e-mail Kelli Scott at kescott1@vt.edu, or 540-315-5884.
Also, check us out on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Virginia-Beginning-Farmer-Rancher-Coalition/239686926056659
4.
The 2012 VABF Farm Tours
Tour 1 - Mattawoman Creek Farms
Eastville, VA - Saturday March 3, 1:00 - 3:30 pm
This tour features winter vegetable production in unheated greenhouse and tunnel structures, and mechnaical cultivation of vegetables on permanent raised beds. Mattawoman Creek Farms, owned and operated by Rick and Janice Felker, produces certified organic vegetables, fruit, and herbs on 44 acres of Virginia's Eastern Shore.
Tour 2 - All-Farm Organics
Louisa, VA - Sunday, June 10, 2:30 - 5:00 pm
This tour, hosted by William Hale, will cover commercial scale composting and organic grain production. William has had 20 years experience growing organic grains, and has grown USDA certified organic cover crop and popcorn seed for the past several years, as well as conducting a commercial composting operation.
Tour 3 - Dayspring Farm
Cologne, VA - Date TBA - Late July or early August
The topic of this tour, hosted and conducted by Charlie and Miriam Maloney, will be summer high tunnel production. Dayspring Farm is operated with ecological and sustainable practices, and its CSA is now beginning its 27th year.
Tour 4 - Blenheim Organic Gardens
Washington's Birthplace, VA - Sunday, October 7, 2012, 1:30 - 4:00 pm
Fall season vegetable production at this 20-acre certified organic farm in the Northern Neck region of Virginia will be the topic of this tour.
http://www.vabf.org/
5.
Future Generations (future.org) and Future Generations Graduate School (
future.edu) are seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director will
provide strategic leadership to advance the shared mission of both
organizations, which operate under the same roof and are dedicated to
promoting equitable and sustainable community change and conservation.
Future Generations, the international civil society organization has been
recently re-cast as an Incubator of Social Change Innovations. The
accredited Future Generations Graduate School of Applied Community Change
serves as the education arm that extends the innovations through currents
students and a global alumni network that is engaged in applied research
and community action. Both organizations focus on empowering the world?s
most marginalized populations for social change?and in parallel, engaging
communities and government at all levels in partnerships to be active
stewards of the natural environment.
Nominations and inquiries from those who wish to apply may be submitted to:
Future Generations & Future Generations Graduate School
Attention: Ms. Rebecca Vaus, Coordinator
Historic Circleville High School
PO Box 36
81 Price Way
Circleville, West Virginia 26804, USA
Telephone: +1 304.358.2000 / Fax +1 304.358.3008
Email: rebecca@future.edu
6.
Neighborhood Fruit
Great info and mapping website:
http://neighborhoodfruit.com/home
7.
Permaculture Design Certification Course
March 10th-17th at George Mason Univ.
"Permaculture is the conscious design of “cultivated” ecosystems that have the diversity, stability,& resilience of natural ecosystems. It is a harmonious integration of people into the landscape in such a way that the land grows in richness, productivity, and aesthetic beauty. " – Peter Bane, Permaculturist
The Mason Sustainability Institute is excited to announce that we will be offering a Permaculture Design Course on March 10th-17th, 9:00am – 6:00pm at George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus. The course will be sponsored by the Office of Continuing Professional Education. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate in Permaculture Design, as well as Continuing Education units.
Course Topics and Activities Include: Ecological Design Principles, Observation of Landscapes in Northern Virginia, Ecological Patterns (Site Analysis, Pattern Language, and Relationships), Broad Scale Strategies, Designing Human Settlements (Bio regionalism, Business Models, Eco Villages), Healthy Soils and Organic Food Production, Climate
and Energy, Water in the Landscape, Trees in the Landscape, Animals and Community, and a Design Exercise and Presentation to the class completed by the student. Note - Some of these activities will be off of the George Mason University Fairfax Campus. Transportation will be provided for any off-site activity.
Dates: March 10th - 17th, 9:00am-6:00pm.
Location: George Mason University Fairfax Campus, University Hall, Room 3300.
Instructor Biography: Rev. Marjani Dele, a permaculturist for 6 years, has been using and growing medicinal herbs in desert and temperate climates for 35 years. Dele’s bioremediation training came during her Katrina response stint. Her permaculture certification comes from the Financial Permaculture Institute and Design Resource in Tennessee. Mentors include Cliff Davis, Kevin Guenther and Matthew English. She consults and is currently organizing a sustainable living demonstration on family land in Victoria, Virginia. A grandmother, Christian minister, special education teacher, cultural artist, and social weaver, she is very experienced in cultivating “human soil.” Her current passions include sharing ancient wisdom, environmental stewardship and involving youth in sustainable living practices.
Price: $800. Price includes breakfast, lunch, and all materials needed for the weeklong course. Parking is also included.
Scholarships will be available upon request.
Register: Send a message to msi@gmu.edu or call 703-993-7725 if interested in this course or for scholarship opportunities. You can also register online at http://www.regonline.com/permaculturedesigncourse.
8.
Job Title - Warehouse Team Member
Company Name - The Fresh Link
Location - Locust Dale, VA
Industry - Local Food Distribution
Time - Part-time (Mondays, Thursdays, & Fridays)
Years of Experience - 1 year of general work experience
Education - High school degree
Salary - $10/hr
Required Skills
Organized
Self-motivated
Good communication
Working Conditions
Excellent driving record
Ability to lift 30 lbs
Ability to work outside
Main Duties & Responsibilities
● Adhere to strict safety and quality standards
● Organize and fill produce orders for customers in a timely manner
● Learn vegetable and fruit varieties
● Possess a valid driver's license and a good motor vehicle record
● Must have a positive and upbeat attitude, even in heavy traffic and unusual driving conditions
● Must be hard working and self-motivated
● Must have excellent verbal communication skills
Please contact Mollie Visosky at mollie@thefreshlink.com to apply. Include a brief explanation of interest and a resume.
Transition Charlottesville/Albemarle monthly meetings on the 4th Monday (the next one is Feb. 27) at the downtown Charlottesville library in the McIntire room. 6:30 pm for a meet-and-greet potluck followed by a meeting. For people to get on the email list sign up at the www.transitioncville.org website.
2.
Unity's Love University Presents
What is an EcoVillage? Why is it Important?
With Douglas Olson
Tuesday, March 6
7-9pm in the Sanctuary at Unity Church in Charlottesville
Ecovillages are urban or rural communities of people, who strive to integrate a supportive social environment with a low-impact way of life. To achieve this, they integrate various aspects of ecological design, permaculture, ecological building, green production, alternative energy, community building practices, and much more.
Topics Include:
* Understanding Eco-concerns and need for Eco-Action
* Experiencing a meeting conducted with awareness of Dynamic Governance
* Awareness of Permaculture, Transition Towns, Zero Energy Dwellings, Restorative Circles, and Living Machines.
* Charter for Compassion
Douglas Olson has been a member of Unity of Charlottesville for over twenty years. In addition to being a business owner and entrepreneur, Douglas has been an active member of a men’s group, an actor with Presence Center for Applied Theatre Arts, a member of a Compassionate Communication (aka NVC) practice group, is the senior active member and past president of Vinegar Hill Toastmasters Club, and co founder of Peace Talks. Douglas has taught public speaking to Public Housing Association of Residents (PHAR Interns) in Charlottesville for five years and (and NVC for one year). Douglas has active plans to establish an eco-village in Charlottesville.
Conservation Innovation Grants in Virginia - Call for Pre-proposals
Due date for pre-proposals is March 30.
http://www.unitycville.org/activities/activities.htm
3.
Virginia Beginning Farmer Connections - a new blog for beginning and aspiring farmers
Kelli Scott, Farm Mentor Coordinator for the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project, announces a new blog for beginning farmers, the VIRGINIA BEGINNING FARMER CONNECTIONS, which can be accessed at: http://news.cals.vt.edu/vabeginningfarmer/, or through the Coalition website;http://www.vabeginningfarmer.org
Once you go to CONNECTIONS~, you will see a Contact page & an About page, which has a lot of info on the blog management. The blog posts are housed in 4 different categories; Home (General), Equipment/Farm Related Sales, Farmer/Mentoring/Internship Opportunities, and Land.
Home contains general posts about the project, events, and opportunities.
Equipment / Farm Related Sales contains the Virginia Beginning Farmer Marketplace, a classified section for anything farm related, Wanted or For Sale.
Farmer Mentoring / Internship Opportunities contains posts related to job postings, apprenticeships, internships, volunteer programs, mentors, work study, etc...
Land contains posts related to land wanted, land for sale, leases, landowners looking for beginning farmers, etc...
If you have something to post to VIRGINIA BEGINNING FARMER CONNECTIONS, or if you have any questions about the new blog,
e-mail Kelli Scott at kescott1@vt.edu, or 540-315-5884.
Also, check us out on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Virginia-Beginning-Farmer-Rancher-Coalition/239686926056659
4.
The 2012 VABF Farm Tours
Tour 1 - Mattawoman Creek Farms
Eastville, VA - Saturday March 3, 1:00 - 3:30 pm
This tour features winter vegetable production in unheated greenhouse and tunnel structures, and mechnaical cultivation of vegetables on permanent raised beds. Mattawoman Creek Farms, owned and operated by Rick and Janice Felker, produces certified organic vegetables, fruit, and herbs on 44 acres of Virginia's Eastern Shore.
Tour 2 - All-Farm Organics
Louisa, VA - Sunday, June 10, 2:30 - 5:00 pm
This tour, hosted by William Hale, will cover commercial scale composting and organic grain production. William has had 20 years experience growing organic grains, and has grown USDA certified organic cover crop and popcorn seed for the past several years, as well as conducting a commercial composting operation.
Tour 3 - Dayspring Farm
Cologne, VA - Date TBA - Late July or early August
The topic of this tour, hosted and conducted by Charlie and Miriam Maloney, will be summer high tunnel production. Dayspring Farm is operated with ecological and sustainable practices, and its CSA is now beginning its 27th year.
Tour 4 - Blenheim Organic Gardens
Washington's Birthplace, VA - Sunday, October 7, 2012, 1:30 - 4:00 pm
Fall season vegetable production at this 20-acre certified organic farm in the Northern Neck region of Virginia will be the topic of this tour.
http://www.vabf.org/
5.
Future Generations (future.org) and Future Generations Graduate School (
future.edu) are seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director will
provide strategic leadership to advance the shared mission of both
organizations, which operate under the same roof and are dedicated to
promoting equitable and sustainable community change and conservation.
Future Generations, the international civil society organization has been
recently re-cast as an Incubator of Social Change Innovations. The
accredited Future Generations Graduate School of Applied Community Change
serves as the education arm that extends the innovations through currents
students and a global alumni network that is engaged in applied research
and community action. Both organizations focus on empowering the world?s
most marginalized populations for social change?and in parallel, engaging
communities and government at all levels in partnerships to be active
stewards of the natural environment.
Nominations and inquiries from those who wish to apply may be submitted to:
Future Generations & Future Generations Graduate School
Attention: Ms. Rebecca Vaus, Coordinator
Historic Circleville High School
PO Box 36
81 Price Way
Circleville, West Virginia 26804, USA
Telephone: +1 304.358.2000 / Fax +1 304.358.3008
Email: rebecca@future.edu
6.
Neighborhood Fruit
Great info and mapping website:
http://neighborhoodfruit.com/home
7.
Permaculture Design Certification Course
March 10th-17th at George Mason Univ.
"Permaculture is the conscious design of “cultivated” ecosystems that have the diversity, stability,& resilience of natural ecosystems. It is a harmonious integration of people into the landscape in such a way that the land grows in richness, productivity, and aesthetic beauty. " – Peter Bane, Permaculturist
The Mason Sustainability Institute is excited to announce that we will be offering a Permaculture Design Course on March 10th-17th, 9:00am – 6:00pm at George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus. The course will be sponsored by the Office of Continuing Professional Education. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate in Permaculture Design, as well as Continuing Education units.
Course Topics and Activities Include: Ecological Design Principles, Observation of Landscapes in Northern Virginia, Ecological Patterns (Site Analysis, Pattern Language, and Relationships), Broad Scale Strategies, Designing Human Settlements (Bio regionalism, Business Models, Eco Villages), Healthy Soils and Organic Food Production, Climate
and Energy, Water in the Landscape, Trees in the Landscape, Animals and Community, and a Design Exercise and Presentation to the class completed by the student. Note - Some of these activities will be off of the George Mason University Fairfax Campus. Transportation will be provided for any off-site activity.
Dates: March 10th - 17th, 9:00am-6:00pm.
Location: George Mason University Fairfax Campus, University Hall, Room 3300.
Instructor Biography: Rev. Marjani Dele, a permaculturist for 6 years, has been using and growing medicinal herbs in desert and temperate climates for 35 years. Dele’s bioremediation training came during her Katrina response stint. Her permaculture certification comes from the Financial Permaculture Institute and Design Resource in Tennessee. Mentors include Cliff Davis, Kevin Guenther and Matthew English. She consults and is currently organizing a sustainable living demonstration on family land in Victoria, Virginia. A grandmother, Christian minister, special education teacher, cultural artist, and social weaver, she is very experienced in cultivating “human soil.” Her current passions include sharing ancient wisdom, environmental stewardship and involving youth in sustainable living practices.
Price: $800. Price includes breakfast, lunch, and all materials needed for the weeklong course. Parking is also included.
Scholarships will be available upon request.
Register: Send a message to msi@gmu.edu or call 703-993-7725 if interested in this course or for scholarship opportunities. You can also register online at http://www.regonline.com/permaculturedesigncourse.
8.
Job Title - Warehouse Team Member
Company Name - The Fresh Link
Location - Locust Dale, VA
Industry - Local Food Distribution
Time - Part-time (Mondays, Thursdays, & Fridays)
Years of Experience - 1 year of general work experience
Education - High school degree
Salary - $10/hr
Required Skills
Organized
Self-motivated
Good communication
Working Conditions
Excellent driving record
Ability to lift 30 lbs
Ability to work outside
Main Duties & Responsibilities
● Adhere to strict safety and quality standards
● Organize and fill produce orders for customers in a timely manner
● Learn vegetable and fruit varieties
● Possess a valid driver's license and a good motor vehicle record
● Must have a positive and upbeat attitude, even in heavy traffic and unusual driving conditions
● Must be hard working and self-motivated
● Must have excellent verbal communication skills
Please contact Mollie Visosky at mollie@thefreshlink.com to apply. Include a brief explanation of interest and a resume.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below is a great collection of info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the central Virginia bioregion, including upcoming education events and several job announcements.
If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
1. FORREST GREEN FARM Spring Workshops Offerings
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
SEED STARTING INTENSIVE
March 10, 2012 12-5 pm
Topics Covered: Making and understanding soil and organic amendments. The basics of growing from seed including container choices, light, climate, temperatures, tips & techniques for seeds that require special treatments for germination.
Growing the seedling out to transplant size, hardening off, seed storage, and seed saving. We will also look at our vermicomposting bins and show you how easy they are to start and manage for organic fertilizer just using your kitchen scraps. This class will teach you all the basics of growing your own herb and vegetable plants from seed. Each participant will take home a sown flat of your choice of herbs and vegetables so you can get a jump start on this growing season. This is a very hands on class and you will get a chance to make different types of potting soil from scratch and practice sowing seeds. Cost is $50 and includes a flat of planted seeds, extensive handouts, herbal tea and herbal appetizers.
WHOLE LIVING FROM THE GROUND UP 2012 Session
12 classes from May-Oct a very in depth course on organic herbal living with the cycles of nature. This course is a hands-on course on gardening, cooking, and herbal medicine skills. You will work on deepening your knowledge and connection with the plants over a growing season. Through the use of this knowledge, you will learn how to make quality medicine from the plants. The herbs in combination with whole foods will provide you with a foundation for healthier living and fulfillment of a more self-sufficient lifestyle. This is a hands-on class! You will take home something from every project that we do. This is a learning opportunity, but also a chance to produce & start immediately using your new skills to enhance your lifestyle with the products that you make in class.
Check our website or call us for a detailed course description.
Forrest Green Farm
Rob and Krista Rahm
(540) 967-1165
(434) 882-2648 cell
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
2. Seeds! Saving Your Favorite Flowers and Herbs.
Saturday Feb. 18 & 25, 2012, 10a to12p at PVCC
Whether they’re from your grandmother’s heirloom garden or from the plants you bought this year, catch the excitement of harvesting and saving seeds from your favorite flowers. Share the experience with your own children, and save money next year by growing and saving seeds for family and friends.
This class will include practical hands-on experience using common household items. You’ll leave not only with seeds to plant but also knowing the essential steps to saving almost any kind of flower and herb seed, as taught by Terri Keffert.
Space is limited. Register now. For more info, call Piedmont Valley Community College at 434-961-5354 or visit www.pvcc.edu/workforceservices.
3. Head Gardener Needed
The Local Food Project
Airlie Center, Warrenton, Virginia
Job Description:
The Local Food Project at Airlie is seeking a Head Gardener for its four-acre organic vegetable garden located at Airlie Conference Center (www.airlie.com) in Warrenton, Virginia, one-hour southwest of Washington, DC.
The Local Food Project at Airlie is designed to demonstrate the benefits of eating local food and supporting local farmers by producing many of the vegetables served in the conference center. The Project aims not only to offer fresh, sustainably produced food to Airlie’s guests, who come from across the nation and the world to attend conferences at Airlie’s world-class facilities, but also to provide guests with opportunities to learn more about sustainable agriculture in local food systems.
The Head Gardener is responsible for maintaining all aspects of the vegetable garden and its hoophouse using sustainable and organic methods and delivering the resulting food to the conference center’s kitchen. This work includes determining the vegetable mix in conjunction with the Center’s chef, developing planting schedules and crop rotations, maintaining soil fertility, planting, harvesting and composting waste from the Center’s kitchen.
The Gardener is also responsible for developing and conducting educational programs for Airlie Center’s guests, including garden tours as well as discussions and seminars about sustainable agriculture and local food systems.
http://www.airlie.org/activities/foodproject.htm
4. Grow Appalachia Coordinator
High Rocks seeks a highly-motivated self-starter with agricultural experience and project management background to coordinate the Grow Appalachia program. The Grow Appalachia coordinator will work with 13 local families and organizations to grow as much food as possible. The coordinator will also work closely with High Rocks and the Greenbrier Valley Local Foods Initiative to create a strong network of local foods in the area. This position has variable hours throughout the year depending on the demands of the season.
What is Grow Appalachia? The basic purpose of Grow Appalachia is to teach and support the people of Appalachia to grow, preserve and sell their own food and feed themselves and their families. The Grow Appalachia Coordinator will work with first time gardeners, experienced gardeners, and support people to develop market gardens. Visit the Grow Appalachia website for more information. To Apply: Send your resume and cover letter to High Rocks Attn: Amy Cole HC 64 Box 438 Hillsboro, WV 24946 OR: Fax:(304) 653-4860 OR: email: amy@highrocks.org
http://www.berea.edu/appalachiancenter/growappalachia/default.asp
5. Sacred Plant Traditions workshop with Phyllis Light
March 30 - April 1, 2012
Friday - Appalachian spirituality
Phyllis will take us deep into the magical realms of Appalachian spirituality and the shamanic traditions that she learned form her elders and teachers.
Saturday & Sunday
- Natural Mental Health Approaches
With astronomical percentages of our population on some form of psychoactive medications it is time that the herbal community understand our place in this crisis.We’ll be discussing ADD/ADHD, depression, learning disabilities, OCD, etc, all as patterns of dysfunction not diagnosis. We’ll also be discussing them in relationship to constitutions.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
6. Farm Work – Charlottesville area farm
Looking for a Farm Assistant for 2012 season. Would be responsible for all aspects of field work (seeding to harvesting of vegetables, flowers, and herbs) and selling at farmers' market. Season would be March-November. Minimum of 1 year farming experience is required. This position would be a good fit for a person with some experience who wants to have more responsibility and learn more about all aspects of running a farm while receiving guidance and mentoring. Compensation is a weekly stipend, produce for personal use, and participation in monthly CRAFT farm tours/workshops. For more information: contact Steph at: newbranchfarm@gmail.com
7. JRGBC-Charlottesville February 14th Luncheon:
"eco MOD and Affordable Housing"
Join the JRGBC in Charlottesville on February 14th for our monthly free luncheon, featuring eco MOD and speaker John Quale! ecoMOD is a multi-year research and design / build / evaluate project at the School of Architecture, in partnership with the UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science. Interdisciplinary ecoMOD teams create sustainable, prefabricated housing units for affordable housing organizations. Thus far, ecoMOD has created six affordable housing units for Habitat for Humanity and Piedmont Housing Alliance, and ecoREMOD has renovated three housing units for the City of Charlottesville, and Falmouth Heritage Renewal in Falmouth, Jamaica.
This luncheon will be held on February 14th at City Space, 100 5th St. NE, on the Downtown Mall, Charlottesville, VA. Doors open at 11:50 and the Seminar begins at approximately 12:10 pm.
Luncheons are free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required by Friday, February 10th. Lunches are ordered based on pre-registration, so please RSVP by the deadline and cancel your registration if you can’t attend before the deadline.
http://jrgbc.org/
8. Heartmoor Workshops
Natural Clay
‘Clean dirt’ is a gift from the earth used by native peoples in ceremonies and daily life the world over. Virginia’s rich deposits are so close to the surface farmers often complain. Join us to dig, re-constitute, and then create hand-built forms on 4 Saturday afternoons this fall. A final 5th Saturday is optional for participants to campout and tend the historically re-created pit firing of their wares.
Limit 8 participants, Ages 10-13, Cost $185
Saturdays 1pm-4pm February 25, March 3, 10, 17
Earth Art
Activate and install a site-specific message to the masses in this all day outdoor experience. Students will explore the characteristics of space, time, and materials while they design, gather, and build their own life-size, outdoor work of art. Bring a bag lunch.
Limit 6 participants, Ages 12-15, Cost $115
Sunday March 18 10 – 3pm
Wild Lenses
Perspective on the natural world can both connect and inspire each of us to care and consider our place, role, and responsibilities. For young minds, capturing the images of animals and plants in the woods surrounding us takes guidance and support. In this one day adventure through fields and woods, past barns and creeks, we’ll capture a sense of our external and internal landscapes. A digital camera with an XD, MS/DUO, CF, SD/MMC or a USB connection is required.
Limit 6 participants, Ages 12-16, Cost $65
Saturday March 24 1 – 3:30pm
Email seeyou@heartmoorfarm.org for registration and directions.
http://www.heartmoorfarm.org/5.html
9. EIGHT-DAY PERMACULTURE DESIGN CERTIFICATE COURSE
Join Wayne Weismen and the Permaculture Project for a weeklong ecological design immersion.
Sponsored by Solid Ground Farm, Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association, Sand Ridge B and B, and Deep Garden Design.
Sunday March 18-Sunday March 25, 2012
Solid Ground Farm Athens, Ohio
Explore the concepts, theories, and practice of Permaculture design. Experience Permaculture applied directly to the Midwest, as you live and learn with practicing ecological designers on Solid Ground Farm. Discover the interrelations of natural building, sustainable agriculture, biomimicry, broad-scale site design, local economies, local ecosystems, earthworks and waterways. Sure to be an exciting week of on-site projects, lectures, special guest teachers, site walks around the area, and fun nightly activities from African drumming lessons, to Capoeira and yoga classes. Come join the fun.
Cost: $800-$1000 (sliding scale) base fee includes space for onsite camping, three meals a day, textbook and access to online resources, and a certificate from The Permaculture Project, LLC. For offsite accommodations please contact us. Pre-registration required. Register by sending a check written out to RAW (along with your name, address, phone number and email) to Solid Ground Farm, 13262 Liars Corner Rd, Millfield, Ohio 45761. For more information, contact Weston Lombard at 740-856-6299 or westonlombard@gmail.com or visit http://www.solidgroundfarm.com. Space is limited.
10. The Friendly City Food Co-op shares the following information and job announcement opportunity. Harrisonburg, VA
Job Opening: Marketing and Owner Services Team Leader (management level)
Do you see a world where food is locally sourced, sustainable, healthy, and clean? Where relationships are fair and friendly? Where consumers are conscientious and well informed? Where our economy is vibrant, and locally owned and operated? And where the environment is green and healthy? If you have this vision…and are committed to helping the citizens of Friendly City to share it, then we are looking for you! Friendly City Food Co-op is seeking a Marketing and Owner Services Team Leader with fresh ideas, collaborative communication skills, and the ability to see the big picture, as well as the details that combine to make it so.
Title: Marketing & Owner Services Team Leader
Reports to: General Manager
Status: Full-time, salaried
Location: downtown Harrisonburg, VA
Compensation: $30,000-34,000, negotiable
Start date: ASAP
(*Includes completed Team Leader application, resume and cover letter)
How to apply
1. Please download the full "Job Description" and “Team Leader Application” at www.friendlycity.coop/jobs.
2. Send completed application, resume and cover letter.
Email: jobs@friendlycity.coop with subject, Team Leader Applicant.
11.
Potomac Vegetable Farms is seeking FT, Seasonal Workers for the 2012 season
Potomac Vegetable Farms consists of two farms which grow vegetables, herbs and cut flowers. The Loudoun County branch of Potomac Vegetable Farms (PVF) is 45 miles NW of Washington, DC. In 2012, we will grow 8-9 acres of produce using organic farming methods. We are not certified organic, preferring the term "ecoganic" to market our produce. We make our own compost, grow cover crops and practice crop rotation to grow vegetables that are healthy for the environment, our workers and our customers.
We've been in business for almost 50 years and intend to continue to grow and succeed.
Each year, we hire 6+ seasonal workers to help us cultivate, harvest and market our vegetables through our CSA, roadside stand and Northern Virginia farmer's markets.
Start Dates: April or May
End Dates: October or November
Meals: All meals are on your own. Of course, workers may use produce from the farm.
For more information about the position or to apply, please contact Stacey at stacey@potomacvegetablefarms.com. Check out our website to learn more about the farm. www.potomacvegetablefarms.com.
12. Sunday Feb. 26 Seed Swap near Afton, VA = 4 pm at Blue Mountain Brewery patio
On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 8:49 AM, Janie Schneiderwrote:
Lets all get together this late winter before things start getting hectic in our gardens come March and April! I
would love to meet and get to know all of you local folks around here, and
also use a seed swap as the excuse!
I am going to shoot for Sunday, February 26th at 4pm. The location I'm
suggesting is the patio of Blue Mountain Brewery.
Hope to see you all soon!
13. Green Building Fellowship @ ECO City Farms
ECO City Farms is looking for an engaged and motivated individual to
assist with the development of our green building credentials at our
flagship urban farm as our first ever Green Building Fellow. A good
candidate should have a solid understanding of the principles of
sustainability and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, solid
writing skills, experience with organizing events, a passion for
learning and a willingness to get dirty. Fellow must be available to
work one day a week with farm staff to assist with hands-on
sustainable building projects. Fellow will receive hands-on
experience with sustainable building and construction of shipping
container retrofits, greenhouse construction, small-scale greenroofs,
bioretention pond, greenhouse construction, solar energy systems,
solar hot water systems and grey-water systems.
The principle responsibility of the Green Building Fellow is to
administer our (DIY Institute: Green Building Series), a summer series
of hands-on green building classes to be held at our farm and taught
by our staff as well as other local expertise. Responsibilities will
include research, development, outreach and supervision of the
educational mini-series of courses. Contacting partner organizations,
inviting potential instructors and administering student signup are
included in the job responsibilities.
This is a great opportunity to gain a survey of the green building
industry for someone who wants to get into the field both in a
hands-on manner as well as through networking to others. The
fellowship runs from March through August and will not exceed 12 hours
weekly commitment, 8 hours on-farm and 2 to 4 hours on your own.
Compensation will be based on commission from course fees collected
for the summer series ($1000-2000). Interested individuals please
contact Adam Schwartz with cover letter and resume by March 1st.
Please visit www.ecocityfarms.org to learn more about our organization.
-
Adam Schwartz
Farm Manager, ECO City Farms
adam@ecocityfarms.org
301-275-2362
14. Announcing A New Intensive Weekend Course in Urban Agriculture (offered in March, May and September)
Register soon; Classes Fill Quickly
Prince George’s Community College and ECO City Farms are proud partners in the Certificate in Commercial Urban Agriculture program. The program is the first of its kind in the region and will give you a comprehensive introduction to starting your own urban farm or farm-related business.
AG 302: An Intensive Introduction to Urban Commercial Agriculture [Offered by ECO City Farms and Prince George’s County Community College, taught at ECO City Farms, 4913 Crittenden Street, Edmonston, MD 20781]
A maximum of 20 people can be accommodated, so please register early to assure your place. This 22 hour, very intensive weekend hands-on course will provide you with sustainable strategies you require to plan and design an intensive food production system, based on your needs, goals, and resources, and suited to your own individual urban space. It includes five (5) core modules. Starting Your Farm: Beginning with the foundational principles of sustainable farming, this module includes issues of soil fertility, nutrient and water management, crop plant families and crop rotation, and farm design to maximize the use of urban resources and infrastructure. Composting 101: Hands-on and detailed, this module includes all aspects of composting in order to produce healthy soil from waste products. Exploring a range of recipes for effective composting and comparing different approaches and strategies, this module will include vermiculture, biochar, bokashi composting and passively aerated windrows. Hoophouse Design & Construction: This module is a hands-on introduction to building a hoophouse and other structures that extend the growing season and enable year-round growing. It will cover construction techniques, such as solar orientation, materials, ventilation and irrigation, as well as strategies related to the effective use of the hoophouse. Intro to Urban Livestock: This module is an introduction to raising small farm animals in urban/suburban neighborhoods, focusing on chickens, ducks, bees, fish and worms. It addresses the requirements for caring for animals, determining which livestock are appropriate for your space and an overview of ordinances related to livestock. Harvest, Processing and Marketing: This module will cover what you need to know to select, harvest, process, prepare and present your produce for sale. Strategies for selling to restaurants, retailers and food co-ops, as well as direct-market strategies such as farmers markets, pick-your-own and community-supported agriculture will be discussed.
A continuing education certificate will be awarded upon completion. Lunch is included.
Two courses this Spring: March 23, 24, 25 and May 18, 19, 20, 2012
One course this Fall: September 7, 8, 9, 2012
Fridays and Saturdays 9:30-6:00 and Sundays 12:00-6:00. Each at $525, all inclusive
Directions for registering for our new urban agriculture class:
· Go to www.pgcc.edu
15.
This is a second invitation to all beginning farmers/ranchers and the farmer service providers across the state to participate a survey aimed at identifying the education and training needs of Virginia’s beginning farmer and rancher community. The first round of this survey was disseminated in spring 2011. If you or your stakeholders have not already taken this survey, we welcome your input at this time!
The survey was created with input from beginning farmer and service provider stakeholders who are part of the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project. The goal of Coalition is to improve opportunities for beginning farmers and ranchers to establish and sustain viable agricultural operations in Virginia through the development and enhancement of innovative educational programs, services, and social networks. An important step to take in reaching this goal is to continue to identify the education, information, and resource support needs of Virginia’s beginning farmers and ranchers.
To complete the online survey, please click the following link:
virginiabeginningfarmersurvey_2012
To learn more, or for a PDF copy of the survey, please visit:
www.vabeginningfarmer.org
If you have any questions regarding the survey or the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project, please contact Kim Niewolny at (540) 231‐5784 or niewolny@vt.edu. Thank you for your consideration and participation.
16. April 3-4 Growing the Appalachia Food Economy Conference in Asheville, NC
A fast-growing demand for local food and the need for economic diversification today are moving Appalachian communities to use their food assets and sustainable agriculture in creative ways to help revitalize their economies. By providing support for local food systems, community leaders can help build stronger links between producers and consumers, keeping more income and wealth in the local economy.
To help expand the role of food assets in local economic development in Appalachia, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is hosting Growing the Appalachian Food Economy: A Forum on Local Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture on April 3–4, 2012, in Asheville, North Carolina. The forum will provide an opportunity for community leaders; economic development officials; farmers; food producers, processors, and distributors; and public and private funding partners to share ideas and learn practical ways local food systems can increase employment opportunities, spark entrepreneurial ventures, and build local wealth in Appalachian communities.
Forum participants will hear from practitioners and experts on topics including
· the economic and community impacts of supporting local food systems;
· why the "local food" economic development approach is particularly useful for Appalachian communities;
· how to take advantage of innovative models of capital and credit that support local food economies;
· how to develop and encourage a "buy local" community mindset; and more.
They will also have the opportunity to participate in local food and farm tours showcasing local food business ventures and sustainable farms.
Preliminary Agenda
Join your colleagues for this informative event! The forum will be held Tuesday, April 3, 2012–Wednesday, April 4, 2012, at the Renaissance Asheville Hotel, 31 Woodfin Street, Asheville, North Carolina 28801 (phone 828.252.8211 or 1.800.359.7951).
REGISTER NOW—Online registration ends March 26.
Questions regarding the forum? Contact the Appalachian Regional Commission at conferences@arc.gov or 202.884.7700.
http://www.cvent.com/events/growing-the-appalachian-food-economy-a-forum-on-local-food-systems-and-sustainable-agriculture/event-summary-74b5cf43a1394edbbb34eda043f1d132.aspx
17.
The iLoveMountains.org team has just launched an innovative new web tool to illustrate the overwhelming amount of data that shows the high human cost of coal mining, and we invite you to check it out!
See it live now:
www.iLoveMountains.org/the-human-cost
18.
Appalachian Voices is seeking a talented and passionate professional with environmental policy experience to help lead and execute our work in Virginia from our Charlottesville office. Our Virginia program works to move the Commonwealth toward a clean energy future by combating the social and ecological impacts of coal mining, combustion, and waste disposal while advancing energy efficiency and other clean energy alternatives.
Responsibilities include:
* Public communication and education on our issues, including media outreach, online and social media tools, tabling, and public speaking engagements
* Grassroots organizing and mobilization, both in-person and utilizing action alerts and other online tools, including work with both our statewide base and specific affected communities
* Communications with decision makers, including lobby visits, fact sheets, and technical papers and reports
* Close coordination with, and outreach to, traditional and non-traditional partners
* Campaign strategy and planning
Qualifications:
* Strong collaborative spirit, sound judgment, and leadership potential
* Excellent time management, work ethic, and organization
* Environmental policy experience
* Experience with energy and/or coal-related policy a plus
* Ability to understand and analyze complex technical and policy issues
* Aptitude for communication with volunteers, members, activists, media, and the public
* Strong writing and oral communication skills
* Passion for the Central and Southern Appalachian region
Salary and Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience and educational background. Benefits include 3 paid weeks vacation, health insurance stipend, and 401(k).
To Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume, and three references by email to:tom@appvoices.org. We will begin reviewing applications immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Visit www.AppalachianVoices.org
19. Lower James Riverkeeper position open
Position Summary
The James River Association (JRA) is the only organization solely dedicated to protecting and restoring the James River,America’s Founding River. The James RIVERKEEPER® program, established in 2001, is an integral part of JRA’s efforts to protect and restore the health of the James River. With a base of operations in the lower James River watershed, the Lower James RIVERKEEPER® will focus on the unique needs and issues affecting the Lower James River and its tributaries, as well as the communities around them.
The Lower James RIVERKEEPER® will be responsible for Lower James RIVERKEEPER® Program to protect and restore the health of the James River and its tributaries. The Lower James RIVERKEEPER® and the Upper James RIVERKEEPER® divide activities within the James River watershed, with the Lower James RIVERKEEPER® responsible for activities from below the fall line to the mouth of the James in Hampton Roads, including all tributaries that enter into the tidal James River. Working with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors, the Lower James RIVERKEEPER® will be the eyes, ears and voice of JRA in the lower James River watershed and serve as a full time, on-the-water advocate for the conservation and responsible stewardship of the river.
To apply for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter with salary history by email to stribble@jrava.orgor by mail to:
Sherrie Tribble
James River Association
9 South 12th Street, 4th Floor
Richmond, VA 23219
The position will remain open until filled, but candidates are encouraged to submit their applications by March 5, 2012. For more information visit our website at www.thejamesriver.org.
Below is a great collection of info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the central Virginia bioregion, including upcoming education events and several job announcements.
If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
1. FORREST GREEN FARM Spring Workshops Offerings
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
SEED STARTING INTENSIVE
March 10, 2012 12-5 pm
Topics Covered: Making and understanding soil and organic amendments. The basics of growing from seed including container choices, light, climate, temperatures, tips & techniques for seeds that require special treatments for germination.
Growing the seedling out to transplant size, hardening off, seed storage, and seed saving. We will also look at our vermicomposting bins and show you how easy they are to start and manage for organic fertilizer just using your kitchen scraps. This class will teach you all the basics of growing your own herb and vegetable plants from seed. Each participant will take home a sown flat of your choice of herbs and vegetables so you can get a jump start on this growing season. This is a very hands on class and you will get a chance to make different types of potting soil from scratch and practice sowing seeds. Cost is $50 and includes a flat of planted seeds, extensive handouts, herbal tea and herbal appetizers.
WHOLE LIVING FROM THE GROUND UP 2012 Session
12 classes from May-Oct a very in depth course on organic herbal living with the cycles of nature. This course is a hands-on course on gardening, cooking, and herbal medicine skills. You will work on deepening your knowledge and connection with the plants over a growing season. Through the use of this knowledge, you will learn how to make quality medicine from the plants. The herbs in combination with whole foods will provide you with a foundation for healthier living and fulfillment of a more self-sufficient lifestyle. This is a hands-on class! You will take home something from every project that we do. This is a learning opportunity, but also a chance to produce & start immediately using your new skills to enhance your lifestyle with the products that you make in class.
Check our website or call us for a detailed course description.
Forrest Green Farm
Rob and Krista Rahm
(540) 967-1165
(434) 882-2648 cell
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
2. Seeds! Saving Your Favorite Flowers and Herbs.
Saturday Feb. 18 & 25, 2012, 10a to12p at PVCC
Whether they’re from your grandmother’s heirloom garden or from the plants you bought this year, catch the excitement of harvesting and saving seeds from your favorite flowers. Share the experience with your own children, and save money next year by growing and saving seeds for family and friends.
This class will include practical hands-on experience using common household items. You’ll leave not only with seeds to plant but also knowing the essential steps to saving almost any kind of flower and herb seed, as taught by Terri Keffert.
Space is limited. Register now. For more info, call Piedmont Valley Community College at 434-961-5354 or visit www.pvcc.edu/workforceservices.
3. Head Gardener Needed
The Local Food Project
Airlie Center, Warrenton, Virginia
Job Description:
The Local Food Project at Airlie is seeking a Head Gardener for its four-acre organic vegetable garden located at Airlie Conference Center (www.airlie.com) in Warrenton, Virginia, one-hour southwest of Washington, DC.
The Local Food Project at Airlie is designed to demonstrate the benefits of eating local food and supporting local farmers by producing many of the vegetables served in the conference center. The Project aims not only to offer fresh, sustainably produced food to Airlie’s guests, who come from across the nation and the world to attend conferences at Airlie’s world-class facilities, but also to provide guests with opportunities to learn more about sustainable agriculture in local food systems.
The Head Gardener is responsible for maintaining all aspects of the vegetable garden and its hoophouse using sustainable and organic methods and delivering the resulting food to the conference center’s kitchen. This work includes determining the vegetable mix in conjunction with the Center’s chef, developing planting schedules and crop rotations, maintaining soil fertility, planting, harvesting and composting waste from the Center’s kitchen.
The Gardener is also responsible for developing and conducting educational programs for Airlie Center’s guests, including garden tours as well as discussions and seminars about sustainable agriculture and local food systems.
http://www.airlie.org/activities/foodproject.htm
4. Grow Appalachia Coordinator
High Rocks seeks a highly-motivated self-starter with agricultural experience and project management background to coordinate the Grow Appalachia program. The Grow Appalachia coordinator will work with 13 local families and organizations to grow as much food as possible. The coordinator will also work closely with High Rocks and the Greenbrier Valley Local Foods Initiative to create a strong network of local foods in the area. This position has variable hours throughout the year depending on the demands of the season.
What is Grow Appalachia? The basic purpose of Grow Appalachia is to teach and support the people of Appalachia to grow, preserve and sell their own food and feed themselves and their families. The Grow Appalachia Coordinator will work with first time gardeners, experienced gardeners, and support people to develop market gardens. Visit the Grow Appalachia website for more information. To Apply: Send your resume and cover letter to High Rocks Attn: Amy Cole HC 64 Box 438 Hillsboro, WV 24946 OR: Fax:(304) 653-4860 OR: email: amy@highrocks.org
http://www.berea.edu/appalachiancenter/growappalachia/default.asp
5. Sacred Plant Traditions workshop with Phyllis Light
March 30 - April 1, 2012
Friday - Appalachian spirituality
Phyllis will take us deep into the magical realms of Appalachian spirituality and the shamanic traditions that she learned form her elders and teachers.
Saturday & Sunday
- Natural Mental Health Approaches
With astronomical percentages of our population on some form of psychoactive medications it is time that the herbal community understand our place in this crisis.We’ll be discussing ADD/ADHD, depression, learning disabilities, OCD, etc, all as patterns of dysfunction not diagnosis. We’ll also be discussing them in relationship to constitutions.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
6. Farm Work – Charlottesville area farm
Looking for a Farm Assistant for 2012 season. Would be responsible for all aspects of field work (seeding to harvesting of vegetables, flowers, and herbs) and selling at farmers' market. Season would be March-November. Minimum of 1 year farming experience is required. This position would be a good fit for a person with some experience who wants to have more responsibility and learn more about all aspects of running a farm while receiving guidance and mentoring. Compensation is a weekly stipend, produce for personal use, and participation in monthly CRAFT farm tours/workshops. For more information: contact Steph at: newbranchfarm@gmail.com
7. JRGBC-Charlottesville February 14th Luncheon:
"eco MOD and Affordable Housing"
Join the JRGBC in Charlottesville on February 14th for our monthly free luncheon, featuring eco MOD and speaker John Quale! ecoMOD is a multi-year research and design / build / evaluate project at the School of Architecture, in partnership with the UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science. Interdisciplinary ecoMOD teams create sustainable, prefabricated housing units for affordable housing organizations. Thus far, ecoMOD has created six affordable housing units for Habitat for Humanity and Piedmont Housing Alliance, and ecoREMOD has renovated three housing units for the City of Charlottesville, and Falmouth Heritage Renewal in Falmouth, Jamaica.
This luncheon will be held on February 14th at City Space, 100 5th St. NE, on the Downtown Mall, Charlottesville, VA. Doors open at 11:50 and the Seminar begins at approximately 12:10 pm.
Luncheons are free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required by Friday, February 10th. Lunches are ordered based on pre-registration, so please RSVP by the deadline and cancel your registration if you can’t attend before the deadline.
http://jrgbc.org/
8. Heartmoor Workshops
Natural Clay
‘Clean dirt’ is a gift from the earth used by native peoples in ceremonies and daily life the world over. Virginia’s rich deposits are so close to the surface farmers often complain. Join us to dig, re-constitute, and then create hand-built forms on 4 Saturday afternoons this fall. A final 5th Saturday is optional for participants to campout and tend the historically re-created pit firing of their wares.
Limit 8 participants, Ages 10-13, Cost $185
Saturdays 1pm-4pm February 25, March 3, 10, 17
Earth Art
Activate and install a site-specific message to the masses in this all day outdoor experience. Students will explore the characteristics of space, time, and materials while they design, gather, and build their own life-size, outdoor work of art. Bring a bag lunch.
Limit 6 participants, Ages 12-15, Cost $115
Sunday March 18 10 – 3pm
Wild Lenses
Perspective on the natural world can both connect and inspire each of us to care and consider our place, role, and responsibilities. For young minds, capturing the images of animals and plants in the woods surrounding us takes guidance and support. In this one day adventure through fields and woods, past barns and creeks, we’ll capture a sense of our external and internal landscapes. A digital camera with an XD, MS/DUO, CF, SD/MMC or a USB connection is required.
Limit 6 participants, Ages 12-16, Cost $65
Saturday March 24 1 – 3:30pm
Email seeyou@heartmoorfarm.org for registration and directions.
http://www.heartmoorfarm.org/5.html
9. EIGHT-DAY PERMACULTURE DESIGN CERTIFICATE COURSE
Join Wayne Weismen and the Permaculture Project for a weeklong ecological design immersion.
Sponsored by Solid Ground Farm, Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association, Sand Ridge B and B, and Deep Garden Design.
Sunday March 18-Sunday March 25, 2012
Solid Ground Farm Athens, Ohio
Explore the concepts, theories, and practice of Permaculture design. Experience Permaculture applied directly to the Midwest, as you live and learn with practicing ecological designers on Solid Ground Farm. Discover the interrelations of natural building, sustainable agriculture, biomimicry, broad-scale site design, local economies, local ecosystems, earthworks and waterways. Sure to be an exciting week of on-site projects, lectures, special guest teachers, site walks around the area, and fun nightly activities from African drumming lessons, to Capoeira and yoga classes. Come join the fun.
Cost: $800-$1000 (sliding scale) base fee includes space for onsite camping, three meals a day, textbook and access to online resources, and a certificate from The Permaculture Project, LLC. For offsite accommodations please contact us. Pre-registration required. Register by sending a check written out to RAW (along with your name, address, phone number and email) to Solid Ground Farm, 13262 Liars Corner Rd, Millfield, Ohio 45761. For more information, contact Weston Lombard at 740-856-6299 or westonlombard@gmail.com or visit http://www.solidgroundfarm.com. Space is limited.
10. The Friendly City Food Co-op shares the following information and job announcement opportunity. Harrisonburg, VA
Job Opening: Marketing and Owner Services Team Leader (management level)
Do you see a world where food is locally sourced, sustainable, healthy, and clean? Where relationships are fair and friendly? Where consumers are conscientious and well informed? Where our economy is vibrant, and locally owned and operated? And where the environment is green and healthy? If you have this vision…and are committed to helping the citizens of Friendly City to share it, then we are looking for you! Friendly City Food Co-op is seeking a Marketing and Owner Services Team Leader with fresh ideas, collaborative communication skills, and the ability to see the big picture, as well as the details that combine to make it so.
Title: Marketing & Owner Services Team Leader
Reports to: General Manager
Status: Full-time, salaried
Location: downtown Harrisonburg, VA
Compensation: $30,000-34,000, negotiable
Start date: ASAP
(*Includes completed Team Leader application, resume and cover letter)
How to apply
1. Please download the full "Job Description" and “Team Leader Application” at www.friendlycity.coop/jobs.
2. Send completed application, resume and cover letter.
Email: jobs@friendlycity.coop with subject, Team Leader Applicant.
11.
Potomac Vegetable Farms is seeking FT, Seasonal Workers for the 2012 season
Potomac Vegetable Farms consists of two farms which grow vegetables, herbs and cut flowers. The Loudoun County branch of Potomac Vegetable Farms (PVF) is 45 miles NW of Washington, DC. In 2012, we will grow 8-9 acres of produce using organic farming methods. We are not certified organic, preferring the term "ecoganic" to market our produce. We make our own compost, grow cover crops and practice crop rotation to grow vegetables that are healthy for the environment, our workers and our customers.
We've been in business for almost 50 years and intend to continue to grow and succeed.
Each year, we hire 6+ seasonal workers to help us cultivate, harvest and market our vegetables through our CSA, roadside stand and Northern Virginia farmer's markets.
Start Dates: April or May
End Dates: October or November
Meals: All meals are on your own. Of course, workers may use produce from the farm.
For more information about the position or to apply, please contact Stacey at stacey@potomacvegetablefarms.com. Check out our website to learn more about the farm. www.potomacvegetablefarms.com.
12. Sunday Feb. 26 Seed Swap near Afton, VA = 4 pm at Blue Mountain Brewery patio
On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 8:49 AM, Janie Schneider
Lets all get together this late winter before things start getting hectic in our gardens come March and April! I
would love to meet and get to know all of you local folks around here, and
also use a seed swap as the excuse!
I am going to shoot for Sunday, February 26th at 4pm. The location I'm
suggesting is the patio of Blue Mountain Brewery.
Hope to see you all soon!
13. Green Building Fellowship @ ECO City Farms
ECO City Farms is looking for an engaged and motivated individual to
assist with the development of our green building credentials at our
flagship urban farm as our first ever Green Building Fellow. A good
candidate should have a solid understanding of the principles of
sustainability and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, solid
writing skills, experience with organizing events, a passion for
learning and a willingness to get dirty. Fellow must be available to
work one day a week with farm staff to assist with hands-on
sustainable building projects. Fellow will receive hands-on
experience with sustainable building and construction of shipping
container retrofits, greenhouse construction, small-scale greenroofs,
bioretention pond, greenhouse construction, solar energy systems,
solar hot water systems and grey-water systems.
The principle responsibility of the Green Building Fellow is to
administer our (DIY Institute: Green Building Series), a summer series
of hands-on green building classes to be held at our farm and taught
by our staff as well as other local expertise. Responsibilities will
include research, development, outreach and supervision of the
educational mini-series of courses. Contacting partner organizations,
inviting potential instructors and administering student signup are
included in the job responsibilities.
This is a great opportunity to gain a survey of the green building
industry for someone who wants to get into the field both in a
hands-on manner as well as through networking to others. The
fellowship runs from March through August and will not exceed 12 hours
weekly commitment, 8 hours on-farm and 2 to 4 hours on your own.
Compensation will be based on commission from course fees collected
for the summer series ($1000-2000). Interested individuals please
contact Adam Schwartz with cover letter and resume by March 1st.
Please visit www.ecocityfarms.org to learn more about our organization.
-
Adam Schwartz
Farm Manager, ECO City Farms
adam@ecocityfarms.org
301-275-2362
14. Announcing A New Intensive Weekend Course in Urban Agriculture (offered in March, May and September)
Register soon; Classes Fill Quickly
Prince George’s Community College and ECO City Farms are proud partners in the Certificate in Commercial Urban Agriculture program. The program is the first of its kind in the region and will give you a comprehensive introduction to starting your own urban farm or farm-related business.
AG 302: An Intensive Introduction to Urban Commercial Agriculture [Offered by ECO City Farms and Prince George’s County Community College, taught at ECO City Farms, 4913 Crittenden Street, Edmonston, MD 20781]
A maximum of 20 people can be accommodated, so please register early to assure your place. This 22 hour, very intensive weekend hands-on course will provide you with sustainable strategies you require to plan and design an intensive food production system, based on your needs, goals, and resources, and suited to your own individual urban space. It includes five (5) core modules. Starting Your Farm: Beginning with the foundational principles of sustainable farming, this module includes issues of soil fertility, nutrient and water management, crop plant families and crop rotation, and farm design to maximize the use of urban resources and infrastructure. Composting 101: Hands-on and detailed, this module includes all aspects of composting in order to produce healthy soil from waste products. Exploring a range of recipes for effective composting and comparing different approaches and strategies, this module will include vermiculture, biochar, bokashi composting and passively aerated windrows. Hoophouse Design & Construction: This module is a hands-on introduction to building a hoophouse and other structures that extend the growing season and enable year-round growing. It will cover construction techniques, such as solar orientation, materials, ventilation and irrigation, as well as strategies related to the effective use of the hoophouse. Intro to Urban Livestock: This module is an introduction to raising small farm animals in urban/suburban neighborhoods, focusing on chickens, ducks, bees, fish and worms. It addresses the requirements for caring for animals, determining which livestock are appropriate for your space and an overview of ordinances related to livestock. Harvest, Processing and Marketing: This module will cover what you need to know to select, harvest, process, prepare and present your produce for sale. Strategies for selling to restaurants, retailers and food co-ops, as well as direct-market strategies such as farmers markets, pick-your-own and community-supported agriculture will be discussed.
A continuing education certificate will be awarded upon completion. Lunch is included.
Two courses this Spring: March 23, 24, 25 and May 18, 19, 20, 2012
One course this Fall: September 7, 8, 9, 2012
Fridays and Saturdays 9:30-6:00 and Sundays 12:00-6:00. Each at $525, all inclusive
Directions for registering for our new urban agriculture class:
· Go to www.pgcc.edu
15.
This is a second invitation to all beginning farmers/ranchers and the farmer service providers across the state to participate a survey aimed at identifying the education and training needs of Virginia’s beginning farmer and rancher community. The first round of this survey was disseminated in spring 2011. If you or your stakeholders have not already taken this survey, we welcome your input at this time!
The survey was created with input from beginning farmer and service provider stakeholders who are part of the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project. The goal of Coalition is to improve opportunities for beginning farmers and ranchers to establish and sustain viable agricultural operations in Virginia through the development and enhancement of innovative educational programs, services, and social networks. An important step to take in reaching this goal is to continue to identify the education, information, and resource support needs of Virginia’s beginning farmers and ranchers.
To complete the online survey, please click the following link:
virginiabeginningfarmersurvey_2012
To learn more, or for a PDF copy of the survey, please visit:
www.vabeginningfarmer.org
If you have any questions regarding the survey or the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Project, please contact Kim Niewolny at (540) 231‐5784 or niewolny@vt.edu. Thank you for your consideration and participation.
16. April 3-4 Growing the Appalachia Food Economy Conference in Asheville, NC
A fast-growing demand for local food and the need for economic diversification today are moving Appalachian communities to use their food assets and sustainable agriculture in creative ways to help revitalize their economies. By providing support for local food systems, community leaders can help build stronger links between producers and consumers, keeping more income and wealth in the local economy.
To help expand the role of food assets in local economic development in Appalachia, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is hosting Growing the Appalachian Food Economy: A Forum on Local Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture on April 3–4, 2012, in Asheville, North Carolina. The forum will provide an opportunity for community leaders; economic development officials; farmers; food producers, processors, and distributors; and public and private funding partners to share ideas and learn practical ways local food systems can increase employment opportunities, spark entrepreneurial ventures, and build local wealth in Appalachian communities.
Forum participants will hear from practitioners and experts on topics including
· the economic and community impacts of supporting local food systems;
· why the "local food" economic development approach is particularly useful for Appalachian communities;
· how to take advantage of innovative models of capital and credit that support local food economies;
· how to develop and encourage a "buy local" community mindset; and more.
They will also have the opportunity to participate in local food and farm tours showcasing local food business ventures and sustainable farms.
Preliminary Agenda
Join your colleagues for this informative event! The forum will be held Tuesday, April 3, 2012–Wednesday, April 4, 2012, at the Renaissance Asheville Hotel, 31 Woodfin Street, Asheville, North Carolina 28801 (phone 828.252.8211 or 1.800.359.7951).
REGISTER NOW—Online registration ends March 26.
Questions regarding the forum? Contact the Appalachian Regional Commission at conferences@arc.gov or 202.884.7700.
http://www.cvent.com/events/growing-the-appalachian-food-economy-a-forum-on-local-food-systems-and-sustainable-agriculture/event-summary-74b5cf43a1394edbbb34eda043f1d132.aspx
17.
The iLoveMountains.org team has just launched an innovative new web tool to illustrate the overwhelming amount of data that shows the high human cost of coal mining, and we invite you to check it out!
See it live now:
www.iLoveMountains.org/the-human-cost
18.
Appalachian Voices is seeking a talented and passionate professional with environmental policy experience to help lead and execute our work in Virginia from our Charlottesville office. Our Virginia program works to move the Commonwealth toward a clean energy future by combating the social and ecological impacts of coal mining, combustion, and waste disposal while advancing energy efficiency and other clean energy alternatives.
Responsibilities include:
* Public communication and education on our issues, including media outreach, online and social media tools, tabling, and public speaking engagements
* Grassroots organizing and mobilization, both in-person and utilizing action alerts and other online tools, including work with both our statewide base and specific affected communities
* Communications with decision makers, including lobby visits, fact sheets, and technical papers and reports
* Close coordination with, and outreach to, traditional and non-traditional partners
* Campaign strategy and planning
Qualifications:
* Strong collaborative spirit, sound judgment, and leadership potential
* Excellent time management, work ethic, and organization
* Environmental policy experience
* Experience with energy and/or coal-related policy a plus
* Ability to understand and analyze complex technical and policy issues
* Aptitude for communication with volunteers, members, activists, media, and the public
* Strong writing and oral communication skills
* Passion for the Central and Southern Appalachian region
Salary and Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience and educational background. Benefits include 3 paid weeks vacation, health insurance stipend, and 401(k).
To Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume, and three references by email to:tom@appvoices.org
Visit www.AppalachianVoices.org
19. Lower James Riverkeeper position open
Position Summary
The James River Association (JRA) is the only organization solely dedicated to protecting and restoring the James River,America’s Founding River. The James RIVERKEEPER® program, established in 2001, is an integral part of JRA’s efforts to protect and restore the health of the James River. With a base of operations in the lower James River watershed, the Lower James RIVERKEEPER® will focus on the unique needs and issues affecting the Lower James River and its tributaries, as well as the communities around them.
The Lower James RIVERKEEPER® will be responsible for Lower James RIVERKEEPER® Program to protect and restore the health of the James River and its tributaries. The Lower James RIVERKEEPER® and the Upper James RIVERKEEPER® divide activities within the James River watershed, with the Lower James RIVERKEEPER® responsible for activities from below the fall line to the mouth of the James in Hampton Roads, including all tributaries that enter into the tidal James River. Working with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors, the Lower James RIVERKEEPER® will be the eyes, ears and voice of JRA in the lower James River watershed and serve as a full time, on-the-water advocate for the conservation and responsible stewardship of the river.
To apply for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter with salary history by email to stribble@jrava.orgor by mail to:
Sherrie Tribble
James River Association
9 South 12th Street, 4th Floor
Richmond, VA 23219
The position will remain open until filled, but candidates are encouraged to submit their applications by March 5, 2012. For more information visit our website at www.thejamesriver.org.
Friday, January 6, 2012
upcoming events
Greetings all,
Happy 2012! Below is a great collection of info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the central Virginia bioregion, including our Spring 2012 BRPN Permaculture Design Course (only a few spaces left), a BRPN potluck with a community talk by Dave Jacke next Saturday (COME ONE, COME ALL), and lots of great sustainable agriculture conferences.
If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
1. Blue Ridge Permaculture Network potluck and
Dave Jacke Community Presentation on “Ecosystem Agriculture and Forest Gardens”
Come One – Come all!
Saturday, January 14, 2012
at Mountaintop Montessori School
440 Pinnacle Place, Charlottesville, VA 22911
BRPN Potluck at 6:00 pm, 7:30 Dave Jacke presentation
Bring utensils and a dish to share
Suggested donation $10 for community presentation to support PDC scholarships
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
2. Spring 2012 BRPN Permaculture Design Course
ONLY A FEW SPACES LEFT – SIGN UP TODAY!
We are pleased to announce our winter - spring 2012 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends near Charlottesville, Virginia.
This Permaculture Design Course lays the foundation for understanding and working with natural systems to design sustainable environments that produce food, shelter, and energy. It also provides participants with models of community development and extension by which they can create networks of support for themselves and empower others to do the same. The course provides tools to help design and develop urban or rural properties or neighborhoods in a sustainable manner, revitalize local communities, and restore ecological balance.
Permaculture promotes land use systems that work with natural rhythms and patterns to create regenerative cultivated ecosystems. Participants will learn how to design and build gardens, homes, and communities that model living ecosystems. By understanding patterns in nature, students will learn how to grow food, manage water catchment and storage, utilize renewable energy and build community.
The ecological design course covers themes such as: ecological systems understanding, organic food production, natural soil improvement, watershed restoration, water conservation and management, edible forest gardening, native medicinal plants, natural habitat restoration, healthy buildings and human settlements, community and consensus building strategies, renewable energy systems, sustainable community development, local economics, and ecological planning and design methods.
This 72-hour certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Emily Axelbaum, Christine Gyovai, Dave Jacke, Hub Knott, Terry Lilley, Dave O’Neill, and guests (teacher bios on the website). The course will be held near Charlottesville, Virginia, at Montfair on the following dates:
Dates: Jan. 13-16, Jan. 27-29, Feb. 18-20, and March 3-4, 2012.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, including a discount for early registration. If you register by November 15 the sliding scale is $895-$1200. After November 15 the sliding scale is $995-$1200. A few work trade positions are available for partial tuition; inquire soon about work trade guidelines and availability. The work-trade application deadline ends on December 1st, 2011, and limited scholarships may be available, inquire for details. To register please visit the BRPN website for a registration form, or contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com or 434-296-3963.
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
3. TRAINING FOR TRANSITION
Dates: February 10th-12th (Friday evening – Sunday evening)
Location: City Space, 100 5th St. NE, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
Host Organization: Transition Charlottesville/Albemarle
Background/Purpose:
As we face the challenges of peak oil, climate change, and economic contraction, the Transition Movement is a positive approach that focuses on local solutions and building community resilience. Training for Transition is a two-day, in-depth, experiential workshop designed to introduce Transition for those considering bringing a Transition initiative to their community and/or to deepen understanding of Transition for those already actively organizing in their locale.
Participants will:
· Discuss the context for Transition initiatives, including the current global situation and converging crises of climate change, peak oil, resource depletion, and economic contraction, and how to effectively raise awareness on these issues on your home turf;
· Learn key concepts of the Transition model, guiding principles, primary ingredients, and the larger process for organizing your community towards local resilience;
· Learn how to set up a successful initiating group, organize effective meetings, inspire positive action, facilitate collaboration, reach diverse sectors of your community (including food, energy, transportation, economy, and health), and build momentum for transformational work in your community;
· Participate in a collective visioning process and develop initial action steps for yourself and your community;
· Form connections with other change leaders interested in this rapidly growing, positive, global movement!
The course delves into both the theory and practice of Transition that is working in hundreds of communities around the world. The training is a mix of presentation, visual media, participatory discussions, small group work, and practical planning that you can take home and use. Participants are invited to share their experience and learn from others throughout the course.
Who Should Attend:
People interested in learning about the Transition movement in greater depth, leaders who are already creating a Transition initiative in their community, and leaders of community groups who wish to be resources for the Transition movement in their locale.
Full and partial scholarships are available. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. To apply for a scholarship, please answer the following questions and email your responses to transitioncvilleinfo@gmail.com
Questions?
Please contact Joanie Freeman at freeman.joanie@gmail.com or Sarah Frazer at sarahfraz@gmail.com.
4. Sacred Plant Traditions workshop with Phyllis Light
March 30 - April 1, 2012
Friday - Appalachian spirituality
Phyllis will take us deep into the magical realms of Appalachian spirituality and the shamanic traditions that she learned form her elders and teachers.
Saturday & Sunday
- Natural Mental Health Approaches
With astronomical percentages of our population on some form of psychoactive medications it is time that the herbal community understand our place in this crisis.We’ll be discussing ADD/ADHD, depression, learning disabilities, OCD, etc, all as patterns of dysfunction not diagnosis. We’ll also be discussing them in relationship to constitutions.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
5.
Farm Work – Charlottesville area farm
Looking for a Farm Assistant for 2012 season. Would be responsible for all aspects of field work (seeding to harvesting of vegetables, flowers, and herbs) and selling at farmers' market. Season would be March-November. Minimum of 1 year farming experience is required. This position would be a good fit for a person with some experience who wants to have more responsibility and learn more about all aspects of running a farm while receiving guidance and mentoring. Compensation is a weekly stipend, produce for personal use, and participation in monthly CRAFT farm tours/workshops. For more information: contact Steph at: newbranchfarm@gmail.com
6. Food Stamped at the Local Motion Film Series
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at the Mockingbird in Staunton, VA
Time = 7:00pm until 9:00pm
Description
Film is FREE! ($5 suggested donation to help support Staunton's first and only ongoing alternative film series.)
Those of you who care about the other side of local food —how ALL locals are eating, or who are passionate about social justice and fighting hunger in America will want to see this movie.
Food Stamped is an informative and humorous documentary film following a couple as they attempt to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet on a food stamp budget. Through their adventures they consult with members of U.S. Congress, food justice organizations, nutrition experts, and people living on food stamps to take a deep look at America’s broken food system. (62 minutes)
Winner, Jury Feature Prize – 2011 San Francisco Independent Film Festival.
Co-sponsored by Transition Staunton Augusta, AmeriCorps*VISTA Food Security and the Spencer Center for Civic and Global Engagement at Mary Baldwin College. Vigorous group discussion to follow the screening.
Transition Staunton Augusta's Local Motion Third Tuesday Film Series is celebrating nearly two years of continuous film showings at the Mockingbird Restaurant and Roots Music Hall. Join us in February for our 2 year anniversary showing of The Corporation on February 21, 2012.
Doors open at 5:30 for dinner in the Roots Music Hall. Dinner reservations strongly encouraged at 540.213.8777.
7. Teaching Permaculture Creatively 2012: Eastern PA
A Nine-Day Intensive Professional Permaculture Teacher Training Course
March 23 through April 1, 2012, Kimberton Waldorf School, Phoenixville, PA
Consider this proposition: Events make the best teachers. The most significant learnings of our lives mostly come from situations we have experienced, and even when people lecture well, they make their presentation an event from which we learn. If events make the best teachers, it would follow that effective educators focus their energy on designing effective learning events. How does this apply to teaching permaculture?
This nine-day intensive Permaculture Teacher Training explores how to create permaculture learning events, applying ecological principles and processes to the design of permaculture workshops, courses, and other experiences. Learn how to quickly assess students’ learning modalities, eight intelligences, and other niche characteristics; create effective learning environments; design multifunctional, functionally interconnected courses where the whole experience is far greater than the sum of the sessions!
Each trainee in this course will design and run short classes and exercises, speak in public, plan and budget an event, and coteach a public one-day permaculture workshop at course end. What do whole learning systems look, feel and sound like? Come find out! The best way to learn is to do, and to have fun doing it! Join us!
Limited to 27 certified permaculture design course graduates; pre-course preparation required.
Course Staff:
Dave Jacke, primary author of Edible Forest Gardens, has taught innumerable workshops and courses across the country using the principles you will learn in this training. This is the fifth teacher training he will lead.
Farmer, educator, and designer Chris Jackson works with at-risk youth and livestock at a school in Plainfield, VT, and homesteads there. He took this training with Dave and Jono Neiger in 2007, and has taught three trainings with Dave since.
Kim Almeida hails from the south shore of Boston, where she farms organic annual and perennial vegetables, workshops, and social systems. This will be her second time assisting with this training, which she took in 2009.
Costs:
• A $25 nonrefundable application fee applies to course cost if accepted. You may register and pay the application fee at:http://permacultureteachertraining.eventbrite.com
• Cost for tuition, meals, lodging: $1,300-$1,700 sliding scale. Early application discount: $1,250 if completed applications are received before February 1! Commuters (no breakfast or lodging included): $1,050-$1,450 sliding scale, $1,000 if completed application received by February 1.
• An additional nonrefundable deposit of $275 is required to hold your place once accepted into the program. Full payment is required by March 1, 2010.
• Partial scholarships will be available—and your completed scholarship application will help us raise funds!
For more information, download the brochure, Student Outcomes, and the course application (includes scholarship application) at http://www.meetup.com/permie/files/.
CONTACT:
The Eastern Pennsylvania Permaculture Guild, c/o Melissa Miles,
101 Abbey Drive, Linfield, PA 19468, (484) 949-1600,
easternpennpermacultureguild@gmail.com
ALSO: check out the Carbon Farming Course coming this January—I’ll be sharing the stage with Wes Jackson of The Land Institute! Also will include Darren Doherty on Keyline, Elaine Ingham on Living Soils, and many other great classes! www.carbonfarmingcourse.com
8. Advanced Permaculture Design Course
With Dave Jacke of Dynamics Ecological Design and
Jono Neiger of Regenerative Design Group present:
Laying Groundwork: A 9-Day Advanced Permaculture Design Course
At Brook’s Bend Farm, A Permaculture Research and Education Center
Friday evening, June 8 through Sunday, June 17, 2012
Lay the groundwork for your deepening practice of permaculture design and for the establishment of a permaculture training and demonstration center at Brook’s Bend Farm. This Advanced Permaculture Design Course (APDC) offers you direct experience designing permaculture systems that will build your design skills, your confidence and your portfolio, and spur you to deepen your self-study of the field. At the same time, you will help plan the transformation of Brook’s Bend Farm into a thriving multi-dimensional permaculture and nature awareness training and demonstration facility.
COURSE FORMAT:
Course staff and participants will together form a large-scale paraprofessional design team tasked to resolve key design challenges and create a Schematic Master Plan for Brook’s Bend Farm. This involves integrating farming, livestock, forest garden, coppice, and building systems for the farm’s 90 acres of woods, streams, pastures, and farm buildings. We’ll dive into previous site assessment and design work by students of the Conway School of Landscape Design (CSLD). Each participant will then focus on one of several key “design streams” relating to the whole design, such as: water supply and waste water treatment systems; food production, processing, storage, and distribution systems; forest use and management; livestock grazing and foraging, and buildings and energy systems. Each “stream” will take on design problems in a mentored group-learning environment. As a collective, we will synthesize these streams into a unified Master Plan and present to a larger public audience by course end.
In this APDC, you will learn through design exercises, participatory classes, observation sessions, and self-study. Pre-course homework will be required. The course itself will be a fun, full-on design charrette with classes mixed in. At course end, you and your team will synthesize everything you have learned into design schemes and details to present to the clients and the public. The design process will be your main teacher; it will tell you what you need to learn. We’ll be there to support and guide you along the way.
INSTRUCTORS:
Primary instructors Dave Jacke and Jono Neiger co-developed and co-taught “design-centered” permaculture courses together over many years. Dave is primary author of the award-winning book Edible Forest Gardens, and teaches design, permaculture, and forest gardening across the USA and Canada. He has run his own design firm, Dynamics Ecological Design, since 1984, and is now working on his second book, Coppice Agroforestry, with Mark Krawczyk (www.edibleforestgardens.com). Jono cofounded the Regenerative Design Group, a Greenfield, MA design firm (www.regenerativedesigngroup.com), is on the faculty at the Conway School of Landscape Design in Conway, MA (www.csld.edu), and is on the board of the Permaculture Institute of the Northeast. Dave and Jono both graduated from CSLD, Dave in 1984, and Jono in 2003. Apprentice teachers, as well as a coterie of guest instructors and design reviewers, will also join the course’s faculty.
COURSE COST:
Tuition and food: sliding scale $1,150-1,550, with an early registration discount of $50 before April 1, 2012. Scholarships will be available; inquire for more information. Tuition payments above the bottom of the sliding scale will be used for scholarships, so please be generous if you can.
Meals: All meals will be provided as part of the tuition.
Accommodations: Camping and limited indoor accommodations will be available on site for an additional nominal fee.
PREREQUISITES AND REGISTRATION:
• All course participants must have completed a certified Permaculture Design Course, and must furnish a copy of their course certificate with their deposit to hold their place in the APDC. If you want to take the course but cannot meet this prerequisite, please inquire.
• A $400 deposit is required to hold your place in the APDC. The full balance is due by May 15, 2011. Make checks out to Dynamics Ecological Design and mail to the address below. Credit card/Paypal payments will incur a fee from Evenbrite, and may be made at bbfadvpcdesign.eventbrite.com.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact Ben Miller, Brook’s Bend Farm
119 Old Sunderland Road, Montague, MA 01351
413-367-2132 • beenfly@yahoo.com
9. Virginia Biological Farming Conference
"Transitioning to Organic Agriculture"
Feb. 10-11, 2012
Holiday Inn, Koger Center
Richmond, Virginia
We hope you will join us for this informative, always stimulating event. Pre-conference options begin at 10 am on Feb. 10, followed by our traditional food-festival potluck-type lunch for which we ask everyone who wants to join us to bring a dish of food to share. We provide paper plates, cups, and flatware.
Our trade show begins at 11 am.
Official welcome, youth program, and opening plenary session start at 1 pm.
Who comes to the conference?
Certified organic farmers and market gardeners
Practitioners of organic farming / gardening who have chosen not to be certified
Sustainable, ecological and low-input producers
Biodynamic gardeners and farmers
Producers of pastured beef, poultry, eggs, dairy cows or goats, etc.
Home gardeners and homesteaders
Researchers and other agricultural professionals interested in organic or sustainable agriculture
Others who want to support ecological agriculture or sustainable food systems, or who simply want safe, nutritious, fresh, locally-grown food.
Mary-Howell and Klaas Martens, the Friday afternoon keynote speakers for our conference, were conventional grain farmers in New York until Klaas began to develop health problems due to pesticide exposure in 1991. Following the examples of other organic farmers, the Martens began transitioning to organic production in 1992. They received invaluable assistance from a neighbor named Cliff Peterson concerning weed control through mechanical cultivation. They also learned a great deal about management of soil fertility, organic quality control and adding value to their organic grains by producing livestock feeds. Today they operate 1300 acres organically with higher profits per acre than they ever earned using conventional practices.
The keynote speaker at the Virginia Biological Farming Conference in 2009 was Will Allen with Growing Power from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mr. Allen described the incredible system he developed for commercial production of horticulture crops in urban neighborhoods of Milwaukee and Chicago. This inner city farming is based on utilization of compost made from food wastes collected from many urban sources such as restaurants, bakeries and institutional food services.
Renee Catacalos and Christian Melendez from ECO City Farms in Edmonston, Maryland will provide the second keynote presentation at the 2012 Virginia Biological Farming Conference. They will speak about their successful development of the Growing Power model for urban horticulture in their city in Maryland. Many people have heard Will Allen speak but these folks at ECO City Farms have actually employed the Growing Power model.
Have a look at our program to see all the other great sessions offered!
http://www.vabf.org/annual-conference
10. Richmond, VA home for sale, a two-story arts-and-crafts style house on 1/3 acre. Home is fully renovated, including refinished hardwood floors, bright and charming. The yard has lots of perennial edibles: grape trellises, dwarf apple and cherry trees, elderberry, asparagus, and rhubarb, plus perennial herbs. There are also several raised beds for annuals. $125,000. Contact Anna at annatulou@gmail.com for more info.
11. Allegheny Mountain School Seeks 7-9 Fellows for its Sustainable Food and Community Development Program in Highland County, Virginia.
Allegheny Mountain School (AMS) is assembling a group of highly curious, hardworking young adults to create a cohesive and cooperative team for living, working, and studying sustainable food systems and community development. AMS was founded in 2011 and beginning on May 1, 2012 our second group of AMS Fellows will spend 6 months (Phase I) in residence on Allegheny Mountain in western Virginia, followed by one year in the service of Partner Organizations (Phase II) along the Route 250 corridor of the two Virginias. Our goal for this year of service is that each AMS Fellow will touch the lives of at least ten families through teaching gardening and building sustainable local food programs.
AMS Fellows will be provided room and board during Phase I and there are no program fees (other than to apply). Fellows will receive a small stipend at the end of Phase I and a monthly stipend during Phase II, where they will be working within community organizations whose focus is strengthening connections to our local food system in communities, neighborhoods and schools. Fellows will be trained in a variety of farm skills, from organic gardening to permaculture site design, preserving food, carpentry skills and small animal husbandry.
The AMS Residency Program (Phase I) is located in Highland County on a 550 acre farm on the western edge of Virginia. The work/learning program will take place on the farm and at community projects in surrounding areas. Workshops and seminars will occur both on and off campus.
AMS Community Engagement (Phase II) entails working with a Partner Organization located along the Route 250 corridor of the two Virginias. Fellows will be expected to help build capacity for the organization’s mission as they share and teach the skills they have learned during their first six months in the program.
For more information, visit www.alleghenymountainschool.org/apply-for-2012 or email us at info@alleghenymountainschool.org. Allegheny Mountain School is a program of The Highland Center in Monterey VA. You can reach The Highland Center at (540) 468-1922.
12. Learn building techniques while traveling, and gain a cultural experience as well.
Natural Building Intro - January 12-17 - Hawi, Big Island, HI - $30/day or $150 for all. Register at: www.hipagriculture.org. Learn dry stack rock work, gabions for stream restoration, wood-fired cob oven building and earth bag construction during this six day workshop. Jan 12-13 Build rock stairs, and create the foundation for the cob oven using dry-stack techniques. Jan 14-15 Build a clay oven out of cob. Jan 16-17 Use Gabions and Earthbags to divert stream water to garden beds. This intro will leave students with the ability to begin planning and building their first rockwork, cob, or earthbag project. View the full flier HERE.
Earthbag Dome - January 21-25 - Mountain View, Big Island, Hawaii - $600 Artfully create your home with the soil beneath your feet. This earthbag dome class will leave you with the skills to begin planning and creating any earthbag project. In this session we will build a 7 foot dome with earthbags. This technique represents the future of woodless construction. Camping and meals included.
Wattle & Daub - Feb 5-15 - Madagascar - $1000 A local association called FIMARA is building a small clinic in a rural area west of the town of Ranomafana. Participants of this workshop will assist in the creation of this facility that will allow local healers to help the sick. Students will learn Cob building techniques including wattle and daub (application of earth over a stick frame), as well as some basic dry stack rock building technique. Like many of our workshops, this is going to be an amazing cultural experience in addition to a quality natural building skill-builder.
Adobe Brick Vault Construction - February 19-29 - Dogon Country, Mali - $1200 Experience Dogon culture while learning how to make Adobe brick nubian vaults along side villagers. These structures use earthen bricks to span the roof and can be 100% earthen. Woodless construction brings a sense of hope for proper use of nature's resources. Adobe mason Aboukar Kassogue of the town of Boro will co-teach with natural builder Scott Howard of Earthen Hand to bring you a truly cross-cultural workshop. Cultural / language guidance, Greet at airport (Bamako), Camping and meals included.
Adobe Brick Dome Construction - March 8-16 - Cairo, Egypt - $1000 Build a small Adobe brick dome for the family of Said, a local camel rider and tour guide who lives down the street from the pyramids. The dome uses earthen bricks to span the roof and can be 100% earthen. Woodless construction brings a sense of hope for proper use of nature's resources. Cultural / language guidance, greet at airport, Camping and meals included.
Natural Building Primer - April 14-20 - Rancho Mastatal, Costa Rica - $1000 Join us for this wonderful 1-week earth building experience. The course will cover the basics of building with earth and offer students a hands-on opportunity to immerse themselves in a number of earth building techniques. Participants will learn about and work with cob, wattle and daub, lime plasters and washes, earth renders and earthen floors. The workshop will be held at the Rancho Mastatal Sustainable Living Center. Students will stay at the Ranch’s amazing facilities and in addition to learning about earth building they will be exposed to a host of other sustainable living projects including a methane digester, composting toilets, Permaculture designed gardens and orchards, animal husbandry, fermented food products and much more. Register by March 14.
Earthen Paints [distance learning] - Anytime - Your house - $50 Our newest type of course allows you to study home made Earthen Paints and applications whenever you have time from your computer via our distance learning video. These techniques are very accessible and easy to learn with this kind of guidance. Earthen Paints have been used for thousands of years to beautify human dwellings, and can produce a wide variety of colors and textures. They are non-toxic, ecological, and not expensive to make. Registration is anytime and ongoing. Course includes email support. DVD is 20 minutes total.
http://www.earthenhand.com/workshops/
13.
JRGBC-Charlottesville January 10th Luncheon:
"LED Lighting and Controls"
Are you up on the latest lighting technologies and how they contribute to LEED points? If not, then start off the new year with JRGBC and Carter Adams, Principal of Lighting Virginia to learn how new LED fixtures and controls can be incorporated into your projects to save energy and earn LEED points. Carter has been in business thirty years and represents over 80 lighting manufacturers. He will discuss practical examples of parking deck, site, interior decorative and downlighting as well as emergency lighting and will have fixtures on hand to demonstrate.
This luncheon will be held on January 10th at City Space, 100 5th St. NE, on the Downtown Mall, Charlottesville, VA. Doors open at 11:50 and the Seminar begins at approximately 12:10 pm.
Luncheons are free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required by Friday, January 6th. Lunches are ordered based on pre-registration, so please RSVP by the deadline and cancel your registration if you can’t attend before the deadline.
Register Today!
https://netforum.avectra.com/eWeb/DynamicPage.aspx?Site=jrgbc&WebCode=EventList&FromSearchControl=Yes
Happy 2012! Below is a great collection of info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the central Virginia bioregion, including our Spring 2012 BRPN Permaculture Design Course (only a few spaces left), a BRPN potluck with a community talk by Dave Jacke next Saturday (COME ONE, COME ALL), and lots of great sustainable agriculture conferences.
If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
1. Blue Ridge Permaculture Network potluck and
Dave Jacke Community Presentation on “Ecosystem Agriculture and Forest Gardens”
Come One – Come all!
Saturday, January 14, 2012
at Mountaintop Montessori School
440 Pinnacle Place, Charlottesville, VA 22911
BRPN Potluck at 6:00 pm, 7:30 Dave Jacke presentation
Bring utensils and a dish to share
Suggested donation $10 for community presentation to support PDC scholarships
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
2. Spring 2012 BRPN Permaculture Design Course
ONLY A FEW SPACES LEFT – SIGN UP TODAY!
We are pleased to announce our winter - spring 2012 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends near Charlottesville, Virginia.
This Permaculture Design Course lays the foundation for understanding and working with natural systems to design sustainable environments that produce food, shelter, and energy. It also provides participants with models of community development and extension by which they can create networks of support for themselves and empower others to do the same. The course provides tools to help design and develop urban or rural properties or neighborhoods in a sustainable manner, revitalize local communities, and restore ecological balance.
Permaculture promotes land use systems that work with natural rhythms and patterns to create regenerative cultivated ecosystems. Participants will learn how to design and build gardens, homes, and communities that model living ecosystems. By understanding patterns in nature, students will learn how to grow food, manage water catchment and storage, utilize renewable energy and build community.
The ecological design course covers themes such as: ecological systems understanding, organic food production, natural soil improvement, watershed restoration, water conservation and management, edible forest gardening, native medicinal plants, natural habitat restoration, healthy buildings and human settlements, community and consensus building strategies, renewable energy systems, sustainable community development, local economics, and ecological planning and design methods.
This 72-hour certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Emily Axelbaum, Christine Gyovai, Dave Jacke, Hub Knott, Terry Lilley, Dave O’Neill, and guests (teacher bios on the website). The course will be held near Charlottesville, Virginia, at Montfair on the following dates:
Dates: Jan. 13-16, Jan. 27-29, Feb. 18-20, and March 3-4, 2012.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, including a discount for early registration. If you register by November 15 the sliding scale is $895-$1200. After November 15 the sliding scale is $995-$1200. A few work trade positions are available for partial tuition; inquire soon about work trade guidelines and availability. The work-trade application deadline ends on December 1st, 2011, and limited scholarships may be available, inquire for details. To register please visit the BRPN website for a registration form, or contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com or 434-296-3963.
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
3. TRAINING FOR TRANSITION
Dates: February 10th-12th (Friday evening – Sunday evening)
Location: City Space, 100 5th St. NE, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
Host Organization: Transition Charlottesville/Albemarle
Background/Purpose:
As we face the challenges of peak oil, climate change, and economic contraction, the Transition Movement is a positive approach that focuses on local solutions and building community resilience. Training for Transition is a two-day, in-depth, experiential workshop designed to introduce Transition for those considering bringing a Transition initiative to their community and/or to deepen understanding of Transition for those already actively organizing in their locale.
Participants will:
· Discuss the context for Transition initiatives, including the current global situation and converging crises of climate change, peak oil, resource depletion, and economic contraction, and how to effectively raise awareness on these issues on your home turf;
· Learn key concepts of the Transition model, guiding principles, primary ingredients, and the larger process for organizing your community towards local resilience;
· Learn how to set up a successful initiating group, organize effective meetings, inspire positive action, facilitate collaboration, reach diverse sectors of your community (including food, energy, transportation, economy, and health), and build momentum for transformational work in your community;
· Participate in a collective visioning process and develop initial action steps for yourself and your community;
· Form connections with other change leaders interested in this rapidly growing, positive, global movement!
The course delves into both the theory and practice of Transition that is working in hundreds of communities around the world. The training is a mix of presentation, visual media, participatory discussions, small group work, and practical planning that you can take home and use. Participants are invited to share their experience and learn from others throughout the course.
Who Should Attend:
People interested in learning about the Transition movement in greater depth, leaders who are already creating a Transition initiative in their community, and leaders of community groups who wish to be resources for the Transition movement in their locale.
Full and partial scholarships are available. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. To apply for a scholarship, please answer the following questions and email your responses to transitioncvilleinfo@gmail.com
Questions?
Please contact Joanie Freeman at freeman.joanie@gmail.com or Sarah Frazer at sarahfraz@gmail.com.
4. Sacred Plant Traditions workshop with Phyllis Light
March 30 - April 1, 2012
Friday - Appalachian spirituality
Phyllis will take us deep into the magical realms of Appalachian spirituality and the shamanic traditions that she learned form her elders and teachers.
Saturday & Sunday
- Natural Mental Health Approaches
With astronomical percentages of our population on some form of psychoactive medications it is time that the herbal community understand our place in this crisis.We’ll be discussing ADD/ADHD, depression, learning disabilities, OCD, etc, all as patterns of dysfunction not diagnosis. We’ll also be discussing them in relationship to constitutions.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
5.
Farm Work – Charlottesville area farm
Looking for a Farm Assistant for 2012 season. Would be responsible for all aspects of field work (seeding to harvesting of vegetables, flowers, and herbs) and selling at farmers' market. Season would be March-November. Minimum of 1 year farming experience is required. This position would be a good fit for a person with some experience who wants to have more responsibility and learn more about all aspects of running a farm while receiving guidance and mentoring. Compensation is a weekly stipend, produce for personal use, and participation in monthly CRAFT farm tours/workshops. For more information: contact Steph at: newbranchfarm@gmail.com
6. Food Stamped at the Local Motion Film Series
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at the Mockingbird in Staunton, VA
Time = 7:00pm until 9:00pm
Description
Film is FREE! ($5 suggested donation to help support Staunton's first and only ongoing alternative film series.)
Those of you who care about the other side of local food —how ALL locals are eating, or who are passionate about social justice and fighting hunger in America will want to see this movie.
Food Stamped is an informative and humorous documentary film following a couple as they attempt to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet on a food stamp budget. Through their adventures they consult with members of U.S. Congress, food justice organizations, nutrition experts, and people living on food stamps to take a deep look at America’s broken food system. (62 minutes)
Winner, Jury Feature Prize – 2011 San Francisco Independent Film Festival.
Co-sponsored by Transition Staunton Augusta, AmeriCorps*VISTA Food Security and the Spencer Center for Civic and Global Engagement at Mary Baldwin College. Vigorous group discussion to follow the screening.
Transition Staunton Augusta's Local Motion Third Tuesday Film Series is celebrating nearly two years of continuous film showings at the Mockingbird Restaurant and Roots Music Hall. Join us in February for our 2 year anniversary showing of The Corporation on February 21, 2012.
Doors open at 5:30 for dinner in the Roots Music Hall. Dinner reservations strongly encouraged at 540.213.8777.
7. Teaching Permaculture Creatively 2012: Eastern PA
A Nine-Day Intensive Professional Permaculture Teacher Training Course
March 23 through April 1, 2012, Kimberton Waldorf School, Phoenixville, PA
Consider this proposition: Events make the best teachers. The most significant learnings of our lives mostly come from situations we have experienced, and even when people lecture well, they make their presentation an event from which we learn. If events make the best teachers, it would follow that effective educators focus their energy on designing effective learning events. How does this apply to teaching permaculture?
This nine-day intensive Permaculture Teacher Training explores how to create permaculture learning events, applying ecological principles and processes to the design of permaculture workshops, courses, and other experiences. Learn how to quickly assess students’ learning modalities, eight intelligences, and other niche characteristics; create effective learning environments; design multifunctional, functionally interconnected courses where the whole experience is far greater than the sum of the sessions!
Each trainee in this course will design and run short classes and exercises, speak in public, plan and budget an event, and coteach a public one-day permaculture workshop at course end. What do whole learning systems look, feel and sound like? Come find out! The best way to learn is to do, and to have fun doing it! Join us!
Limited to 27 certified permaculture design course graduates; pre-course preparation required.
Course Staff:
Dave Jacke, primary author of Edible Forest Gardens, has taught innumerable workshops and courses across the country using the principles you will learn in this training. This is the fifth teacher training he will lead.
Farmer, educator, and designer Chris Jackson works with at-risk youth and livestock at a school in Plainfield, VT, and homesteads there. He took this training with Dave and Jono Neiger in 2007, and has taught three trainings with Dave since.
Kim Almeida hails from the south shore of Boston, where she farms organic annual and perennial vegetables, workshops, and social systems. This will be her second time assisting with this training, which she took in 2009.
Costs:
• A $25 nonrefundable application fee applies to course cost if accepted. You may register and pay the application fee at:http://permacultureteachertraining.eventbrite.com
• Cost for tuition, meals, lodging: $1,300-$1,700 sliding scale. Early application discount: $1,250 if completed applications are received before February 1! Commuters (no breakfast or lodging included): $1,050-$1,450 sliding scale, $1,000 if completed application received by February 1.
• An additional nonrefundable deposit of $275 is required to hold your place once accepted into the program. Full payment is required by March 1, 2010.
• Partial scholarships will be available—and your completed scholarship application will help us raise funds!
For more information, download the brochure, Student Outcomes, and the course application (includes scholarship application) at http://www.meetup.com/permie/files/.
CONTACT:
The Eastern Pennsylvania Permaculture Guild, c/o Melissa Miles,
101 Abbey Drive, Linfield, PA 19468, (484) 949-1600,
easternpennpermacultureguild@gmail.com
ALSO: check out the Carbon Farming Course coming this January—I’ll be sharing the stage with Wes Jackson of The Land Institute! Also will include Darren Doherty on Keyline, Elaine Ingham on Living Soils, and many other great classes! www.carbonfarmingcourse.com
8. Advanced Permaculture Design Course
With Dave Jacke of Dynamics Ecological Design and
Jono Neiger of Regenerative Design Group present:
Laying Groundwork: A 9-Day Advanced Permaculture Design Course
At Brook’s Bend Farm, A Permaculture Research and Education Center
Friday evening, June 8 through Sunday, June 17, 2012
Lay the groundwork for your deepening practice of permaculture design and for the establishment of a permaculture training and demonstration center at Brook’s Bend Farm. This Advanced Permaculture Design Course (APDC) offers you direct experience designing permaculture systems that will build your design skills, your confidence and your portfolio, and spur you to deepen your self-study of the field. At the same time, you will help plan the transformation of Brook’s Bend Farm into a thriving multi-dimensional permaculture and nature awareness training and demonstration facility.
COURSE FORMAT:
Course staff and participants will together form a large-scale paraprofessional design team tasked to resolve key design challenges and create a Schematic Master Plan for Brook’s Bend Farm. This involves integrating farming, livestock, forest garden, coppice, and building systems for the farm’s 90 acres of woods, streams, pastures, and farm buildings. We’ll dive into previous site assessment and design work by students of the Conway School of Landscape Design (CSLD). Each participant will then focus on one of several key “design streams” relating to the whole design, such as: water supply and waste water treatment systems; food production, processing, storage, and distribution systems; forest use and management; livestock grazing and foraging, and buildings and energy systems. Each “stream” will take on design problems in a mentored group-learning environment. As a collective, we will synthesize these streams into a unified Master Plan and present to a larger public audience by course end.
In this APDC, you will learn through design exercises, participatory classes, observation sessions, and self-study. Pre-course homework will be required. The course itself will be a fun, full-on design charrette with classes mixed in. At course end, you and your team will synthesize everything you have learned into design schemes and details to present to the clients and the public. The design process will be your main teacher; it will tell you what you need to learn. We’ll be there to support and guide you along the way.
INSTRUCTORS:
Primary instructors Dave Jacke and Jono Neiger co-developed and co-taught “design-centered” permaculture courses together over many years. Dave is primary author of the award-winning book Edible Forest Gardens, and teaches design, permaculture, and forest gardening across the USA and Canada. He has run his own design firm, Dynamics Ecological Design, since 1984, and is now working on his second book, Coppice Agroforestry, with Mark Krawczyk (www.edibleforestgardens.com). Jono cofounded the Regenerative Design Group, a Greenfield, MA design firm (www.regenerativedesigngroup.com), is on the faculty at the Conway School of Landscape Design in Conway, MA (www.csld.edu), and is on the board of the Permaculture Institute of the Northeast. Dave and Jono both graduated from CSLD, Dave in 1984, and Jono in 2003. Apprentice teachers, as well as a coterie of guest instructors and design reviewers, will also join the course’s faculty.
COURSE COST:
Tuition and food: sliding scale $1,150-1,550, with an early registration discount of $50 before April 1, 2012. Scholarships will be available; inquire for more information. Tuition payments above the bottom of the sliding scale will be used for scholarships, so please be generous if you can.
Meals: All meals will be provided as part of the tuition.
Accommodations: Camping and limited indoor accommodations will be available on site for an additional nominal fee.
PREREQUISITES AND REGISTRATION:
• All course participants must have completed a certified Permaculture Design Course, and must furnish a copy of their course certificate with their deposit to hold their place in the APDC. If you want to take the course but cannot meet this prerequisite, please inquire.
• A $400 deposit is required to hold your place in the APDC. The full balance is due by May 15, 2011. Make checks out to Dynamics Ecological Design and mail to the address below. Credit card/Paypal payments will incur a fee from Evenbrite, and may be made at bbfadvpcdesign.eventbrite.com.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact Ben Miller, Brook’s Bend Farm
119 Old Sunderland Road, Montague, MA 01351
413-367-2132 • beenfly@yahoo.com
9. Virginia Biological Farming Conference
"Transitioning to Organic Agriculture"
Feb. 10-11, 2012
Holiday Inn, Koger Center
Richmond, Virginia
We hope you will join us for this informative, always stimulating event. Pre-conference options begin at 10 am on Feb. 10, followed by our traditional food-festival potluck-type lunch for which we ask everyone who wants to join us to bring a dish of food to share. We provide paper plates, cups, and flatware.
Our trade show begins at 11 am.
Official welcome, youth program, and opening plenary session start at 1 pm.
Who comes to the conference?
Certified organic farmers and market gardeners
Practitioners of organic farming / gardening who have chosen not to be certified
Sustainable, ecological and low-input producers
Biodynamic gardeners and farmers
Producers of pastured beef, poultry, eggs, dairy cows or goats, etc.
Home gardeners and homesteaders
Researchers and other agricultural professionals interested in organic or sustainable agriculture
Others who want to support ecological agriculture or sustainable food systems, or who simply want safe, nutritious, fresh, locally-grown food.
Mary-Howell and Klaas Martens, the Friday afternoon keynote speakers for our conference, were conventional grain farmers in New York until Klaas began to develop health problems due to pesticide exposure in 1991. Following the examples of other organic farmers, the Martens began transitioning to organic production in 1992. They received invaluable assistance from a neighbor named Cliff Peterson concerning weed control through mechanical cultivation. They also learned a great deal about management of soil fertility, organic quality control and adding value to their organic grains by producing livestock feeds. Today they operate 1300 acres organically with higher profits per acre than they ever earned using conventional practices.
The keynote speaker at the Virginia Biological Farming Conference in 2009 was Will Allen with Growing Power from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mr. Allen described the incredible system he developed for commercial production of horticulture crops in urban neighborhoods of Milwaukee and Chicago. This inner city farming is based on utilization of compost made from food wastes collected from many urban sources such as restaurants, bakeries and institutional food services.
Renee Catacalos and Christian Melendez from ECO City Farms in Edmonston, Maryland will provide the second keynote presentation at the 2012 Virginia Biological Farming Conference. They will speak about their successful development of the Growing Power model for urban horticulture in their city in Maryland. Many people have heard Will Allen speak but these folks at ECO City Farms have actually employed the Growing Power model.
Have a look at our program to see all the other great sessions offered!
http://www.vabf.org/annual-conference
10. Richmond, VA home for sale, a two-story arts-and-crafts style house on 1/3 acre. Home is fully renovated, including refinished hardwood floors, bright and charming. The yard has lots of perennial edibles: grape trellises, dwarf apple and cherry trees, elderberry, asparagus, and rhubarb, plus perennial herbs. There are also several raised beds for annuals. $125,000. Contact Anna at annatulou@gmail.com for more info.
11. Allegheny Mountain School Seeks 7-9 Fellows for its Sustainable Food and Community Development Program in Highland County, Virginia.
Allegheny Mountain School (AMS) is assembling a group of highly curious, hardworking young adults to create a cohesive and cooperative team for living, working, and studying sustainable food systems and community development. AMS was founded in 2011 and beginning on May 1, 2012 our second group of AMS Fellows will spend 6 months (Phase I) in residence on Allegheny Mountain in western Virginia, followed by one year in the service of Partner Organizations (Phase II) along the Route 250 corridor of the two Virginias. Our goal for this year of service is that each AMS Fellow will touch the lives of at least ten families through teaching gardening and building sustainable local food programs.
AMS Fellows will be provided room and board during Phase I and there are no program fees (other than to apply). Fellows will receive a small stipend at the end of Phase I and a monthly stipend during Phase II, where they will be working within community organizations whose focus is strengthening connections to our local food system in communities, neighborhoods and schools. Fellows will be trained in a variety of farm skills, from organic gardening to permaculture site design, preserving food, carpentry skills and small animal husbandry.
The AMS Residency Program (Phase I) is located in Highland County on a 550 acre farm on the western edge of Virginia. The work/learning program will take place on the farm and at community projects in surrounding areas. Workshops and seminars will occur both on and off campus.
AMS Community Engagement (Phase II) entails working with a Partner Organization located along the Route 250 corridor of the two Virginias. Fellows will be expected to help build capacity for the organization’s mission as they share and teach the skills they have learned during their first six months in the program.
For more information, visit www.alleghenymountainschool.org/apply-for-2012 or email us at info@alleghenymountainschool.org. Allegheny Mountain School is a program of The Highland Center in Monterey VA. You can reach The Highland Center at (540) 468-1922.
12. Learn building techniques while traveling, and gain a cultural experience as well.
Natural Building Intro - January 12-17 - Hawi, Big Island, HI - $30/day or $150 for all. Register at: www.hipagriculture.org. Learn dry stack rock work, gabions for stream restoration, wood-fired cob oven building and earth bag construction during this six day workshop. Jan 12-13 Build rock stairs, and create the foundation for the cob oven using dry-stack techniques. Jan 14-15 Build a clay oven out of cob. Jan 16-17 Use Gabions and Earthbags to divert stream water to garden beds. This intro will leave students with the ability to begin planning and building their first rockwork, cob, or earthbag project. View the full flier HERE.
Earthbag Dome - January 21-25 - Mountain View, Big Island, Hawaii - $600 Artfully create your home with the soil beneath your feet. This earthbag dome class will leave you with the skills to begin planning and creating any earthbag project. In this session we will build a 7 foot dome with earthbags. This technique represents the future of woodless construction. Camping and meals included.
Wattle & Daub - Feb 5-15 - Madagascar - $1000 A local association called FIMARA is building a small clinic in a rural area west of the town of Ranomafana. Participants of this workshop will assist in the creation of this facility that will allow local healers to help the sick. Students will learn Cob building techniques including wattle and daub (application of earth over a stick frame), as well as some basic dry stack rock building technique. Like many of our workshops, this is going to be an amazing cultural experience in addition to a quality natural building skill-builder.
Adobe Brick Vault Construction - February 19-29 - Dogon Country, Mali - $1200 Experience Dogon culture while learning how to make Adobe brick nubian vaults along side villagers. These structures use earthen bricks to span the roof and can be 100% earthen. Woodless construction brings a sense of hope for proper use of nature's resources. Adobe mason Aboukar Kassogue of the town of Boro will co-teach with natural builder Scott Howard of Earthen Hand to bring you a truly cross-cultural workshop. Cultural / language guidance, Greet at airport (Bamako), Camping and meals included.
Adobe Brick Dome Construction - March 8-16 - Cairo, Egypt - $1000 Build a small Adobe brick dome for the family of Said, a local camel rider and tour guide who lives down the street from the pyramids. The dome uses earthen bricks to span the roof and can be 100% earthen. Woodless construction brings a sense of hope for proper use of nature's resources. Cultural / language guidance, greet at airport, Camping and meals included.
Natural Building Primer - April 14-20 - Rancho Mastatal, Costa Rica - $1000 Join us for this wonderful 1-week earth building experience. The course will cover the basics of building with earth and offer students a hands-on opportunity to immerse themselves in a number of earth building techniques. Participants will learn about and work with cob, wattle and daub, lime plasters and washes, earth renders and earthen floors. The workshop will be held at the Rancho Mastatal Sustainable Living Center. Students will stay at the Ranch’s amazing facilities and in addition to learning about earth building they will be exposed to a host of other sustainable living projects including a methane digester, composting toilets, Permaculture designed gardens and orchards, animal husbandry, fermented food products and much more. Register by March 14.
Earthen Paints [distance learning] - Anytime - Your house - $50 Our newest type of course allows you to study home made Earthen Paints and applications whenever you have time from your computer via our distance learning video. These techniques are very accessible and easy to learn with this kind of guidance. Earthen Paints have been used for thousands of years to beautify human dwellings, and can produce a wide variety of colors and textures. They are non-toxic, ecological, and not expensive to make. Registration is anytime and ongoing. Course includes email support. DVD is 20 minutes total.
http://www.earthenhand.com/workshops/
13.
JRGBC-Charlottesville January 10th Luncheon:
"LED Lighting and Controls"
Are you up on the latest lighting technologies and how they contribute to LEED points? If not, then start off the new year with JRGBC and Carter Adams, Principal of Lighting Virginia to learn how new LED fixtures and controls can be incorporated into your projects to save energy and earn LEED points. Carter has been in business thirty years and represents over 80 lighting manufacturers. He will discuss practical examples of parking deck, site, interior decorative and downlighting as well as emergency lighting and will have fixtures on hand to demonstrate.
This luncheon will be held on January 10th at City Space, 100 5th St. NE, on the Downtown Mall, Charlottesville, VA. Doors open at 11:50 and the Seminar begins at approximately 12:10 pm.
Luncheons are free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required by Friday, January 6th. Lunches are ordered based on pre-registration, so please RSVP by the deadline and cancel your registration if you can’t attend before the deadline.
Register Today!
https://netforum.avectra.com/eWeb/DynamicPage.aspx?Site=jrgbc&WebCode=EventList&FromSearchControl=Yes
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