Upcoming Events 

June 2014

Greetings all,
 
Below is an amazing collection of upcoming permaculture, sustainability and farming events in the central Virginia bioregion, including some wonderful upcoming classes and workshops this weekend and a great BRPN workshop in October with Eric Toensmier, Rafter Sass Ferguson, and Elizabeth U. We are going to move to a bi-monthly newsletter format for the next while.  If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, they can sign up here.  If you have an announcement, email us at blueridgepermaculture@gmail.com for the next monthly e-newsletter. Click here to view this email as a webpage. 
Also – post your own events on the BRPN Yahoo listserve  or the BRPN Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blueridgepermaculturenetwork/
 
Best,
Christine, Terry, Emily and the BRPN team
www.blueridgepermaculture.net  


 
1.
Regenerative Farm Enterprise Planning
With Eric Toensmeier, Rafter Sass Ferguson, and Elizabeth U
October 18-23, 2014
At Shannon Farm Community in Afton, VA
 
Scaling up ecological agriculture is one of the critical challenges we face in addressing climate change and the global food crisis. Integrated perennial farm businesses are a key part of the solution when planned and managed effectively;
Join us to learn and practice how!
 
This 6-day course integrates time-tested farm business planning tools with the holistic landscape planning of permaculture and cutting-edge creative financing strategies. Experienced leaders will guide participants through an intensive planning/design process, from initial visioning, through successional enterprise budgeting, to design of the farm landscape. In this dynamic course, participants will design in teams working on a shared project, with structured time for participants to integrate what they are learning with their own goals and projects. Special sessions will bring in the insight of experienced permaculture farmers.
 
Cost for the course is a sliding scale of $595 - $895. 
To register or for more information contact  tygerlilley@gmail.com or visit www.blueridgepermaculture.net
 
 
2.
WHAT:  Cultivate C'ville Urban Farms & Gardens Tour
 
Our community is bursting with love for local food. This summer, Cultivate C'ville wants to give you the opportunity to meet the urban farmers and gardeners increasing access to locally-grown food right here in our city! Explore urban homesteads, neighborhood farms, community gardens, and school gardens that are raising everything from fruits and vegetables to dairy goats and honey bees! Learn how these projects got their start and how they’re cultivating both food and community in Charlottesville city neighborhoods. Leave inspired. Stay connected and support your urban food system!
 
WHEN: Saturday, June 21st, with tours offered at 9:30, 10:30, and 11:30am.
 
WHERE: Visit www.cultivatecville.com for tour site bios and a map!
 
Sign up for our email list or like us on Facebook for the latest!
 
 
3.
2014 Bellair Farm Workshop Series
 
‪This year we are excited to be bringing experts from the Charlottesville area to share their knowledge and experience through series of workshops here at the farm.  Ranging from topics like cheesemaking and fermentation to beekeeping and natural pigment dyes, we're offering workshops that focus on food preparation and preservation, self-reliance skills, and sustainable agriculture.  Individual workshops are $25 each, or $20 if you sign up for 3!   Below is the schedule as it stands.  Each workshop is from 4-6pm unless otherwise noted.  Please visit www.bellairfarm.com for more details, and e-mail bellairfarm@gmail.com to register.

June 17 June 24	Water Bath Canning with Leni Sorenson, Culinary Historian & Teacher of Rural Life Skills Backyard Beekeeping with Chiron Aldebaran
July 1 July 12 July 15 July 29 August 12 August 19 September 2	Raising Chickens for Meat & Eggs with Leni Sorenson, Culinary Historian & Teacher of Rural Life Skills Yoga with Children with Laura Rogers of Bend (9:30-10:15am, $20) Seed Saving with Pat Brodowski, Monticello Gardener Cheesemaking: Fresh Lactic Cheeses with Kyle Kilduff of Twenty Paces Yoga with Children with Laura Rogers of Bend (4:00-4:45pm, $20) Natural Plant Dyes with Pat Browdowski, Monticello Gardener Cheesemaking: Enzymatic Brined Cheeses with Kyle Kilduff of Twenty Paces
September 23	Soil Health in your Garden with Mark Schonbeck, VABF
October 7	Eat More Mushrooms! With Mark Jones, Sharondale Farms

 
 
4.
21st Annual Southeastern Permaculture Gathering 
Celo, NC, Friday August 1 – Sunday August 3 
Pre-gathering Workshops Thursday, July 31st 
www.southeasternpermaculture.org  
2014
Hello Friends and Family!  We are excited about this year's gathering happening  August 1st- 3rd, 2014. Our theme will be “Time for Change” and together we’ll explore how making changes can actually make our lives more meaningful. . . 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

• Earlybird Registration from Fri to Sun is  only $115
• Check out our Thursday workshops for an extra $60
• We have a great Youth Program & Children under 10 are free
• Work trades and Scholarships are available

 
Contact Kimchi Rylander at registrar@southeasternpermaculture.org or phone 828 669 7552
 
 
5.
From our friends at Cville / Albemarle Transition
 
********************
Wednesday 6/11 Earth Week Planning Meeting
7-8:30pm at the Eco Village, 480E. Rio Rd.
If you're interested in becoming part of the Earth Week planning committe, please come meet the group.  Come out to a meeting, and then help put together next year's Eco-Fair!  Earth Week is organized primarily by volunteers, many of whom are active environmentally-oriented community members, business owners, students, retirees, and . . . maybe you!  http://www.earthweek.org/
 
********************
Thursday 6/12 From Small Farm Dream to Reality
5:30-6:30pm at Moving Meadows Farm Market, 254 E. Davis Street, Culpeper
Join James and Holly Hammond of Culpeper's Whisper Hill Farm as they share their story of creating a successful farm business on a few acres – and making it their full time job! Whisper Hill produces vegetables, flowers and herbs without pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals. Learn about their journey and get inspired to dig up your turf.  This event is part of a summer community speaker series sponsored by Piedmont Environmental Council. Come meet your farming neighbors and develop your own gardening and foodie dreams. Free.http://www.pecva.org/events
 
********************
Thursday 6/12 Green Drinks
6pm at Three Notch'd Brewing Company, 946 Grady Ave.
Green Drinks is an organic, self-organizing network of folks who think green and/or work in the environmental field.  It's a great way of catching up with people you know or for making new contacts.  http://www.greendrinks.org/index.php?city=Charlottesville&country=USA
 
********************
Thursday 6/12 Parks Garden Program Review
6-8pm at Carver Recreation Center, 324 4th St., NW
You are invited to a discussion regarding the City's policies and procedures that guide the allocation and management of annual garden plot rentals at City parks.  Please join Parks and Recreation staff and fellow garden plot renters on  for this important discussion.
 
********************
Saturday 6/14 Benefit Breakfast for PACEM
8am-1pm at Vinegar Hill Café, 233 4th St. NW
Vinegar Hill Café will host a pancake and bacon breakfast fundraiser for PACEM (People and Congregations Engaged in Ministry). The pancake buffet includes syrup, toppings, bacon, and beverages. Tickets are $8.00 and are available at the door. $2.00 of each ticket redeemed will benefit PACEM, which brings together the faith community of the greater Charlottesville area in providing temporary shelter, compassionate support and access to services for individuals who are homeless so they can move to a stable housing solution. http://pacemshelter.org/
 
********************
Saturday 6/14 Common Ground's 3rd Annual Sit-A-Thon 
10am-noon at The Haven, 112 Market St.
Common Ground will be hosting its third annual Sit-a-Thon fundraiser, a community meditation event. This event is open to all levels: those experienced in meditation as well as complete beginners are welcome.  Pat Coffey, a Senior Teacher in the Insight Meditation tradition, will lead a one-hour community meditation with a reception to follow.  For more information or to create your own sponsor site, go to  http://www.commongroundcville.org/workshops-special-events/2nd-annual-sit-a-thon/
 
********************
Saturday 6/14 Grace Church Historic Farm Tour
10am-4pm at Grace Church, 5607 Gordonsville Rd., Keswick
Grace Episcopal Church in Keswick will be hosting its self-driven tour of six historic farms, the Keswick Hunt Club and an old fashioned country fair at the Church.  The old-fashioned Country Fair held at Grace Church will feature 4-H animals, local artisans, music and jugglers, activities for children, civil war re-enactors, and food trucks.  Tickets are available online at http://www.gracekeswick.org/ for $15 until the day of the event. Day of they are $20 (children 12 and under are free).
 
********************
Saturday 6/14 Hand Tool Sharpening Workshop
1-3pm at Living Energy Farm, 1022 Bibb Store Rd., Louisa
This workshop will focus on sharpening simpler tools such as knives, chisels, hoes, as well as sharpening hand saws and other forestry and woodworking tools if there is interest. Requested $25 donation, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.  Please RSVP to livingenergyfarm@gmail.com or call 434-282-6471 if you plan to attend.  http://www.livingenergyfarm.org/
 
********************
Sunday 6/15 Maker Madness Freestyle
10am-3pm at Tinkersmiths, 1229 Harris St. Unit #1
Sunday is work on your own project day. Bring an idea, a kit, a book, or just arrive for some external inspiration.  Your project can be something you can work on for an hour or over the course of many months.  As usual arrive with curiosity and leave with a smile and a little more knowledge.  Want to network with other makers, artists, engineers or crafters? Tinkersmiths is the place. http://www.meetup.com/Central-Virginia-Makers/events/184216362/
 
********************
Monday 6/16 Cville Vegetarian Festival Planning
7-8pm at the Eco Village, 480E. Rio Rd., Lochlyn House
The Charlottesville Vegetarian Festival could not be all that it is without the help of volunteers. Come by the planning meeting to see how you can lend a hand for this great event.  Contact hfcusa.org@gmail.com for more information.
 
********************
Tuesday 6/17 Water Bath Canning
4-6pm at Bellair Farm, 5275 Bellair Farm
As part of Bellair Farm's 2014 Workshop Series, Leni Sorenson, Culinary Historian and Rural Life Skills Teacher will show you the wonders of water bath canning at home.  It’s never too early to store your fruits and veggies for the wintertime!   $25.  Register to bellairfarm@gmail.com .  Find out what else Leni is up to at http://theviewfromindigohouse.com/ 
 
********************
Tuesday 6/17 Writing Workshop
6-8pm at the Eco Village, 480E. Rio Rd., Lochlyn House
Are you facing a personal or creative challenge? Trying to figure out your next move? In this contemplative writing workshop, titled "Tapping the Secrets of the Blank Page and You", explore the glorious possibilities of pen, paper, and you. Learn more and sign up via email through lesley@inkandinquiry.com or call 434 989-8261.
 
********************
Wednesday 6/18 Bike and Pedestrian Plan Update Kick-Off
4:30-6:30pm at CitySpace, Market Street Parking Garage
100 Fifth Street, NE
The 2014 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Update is the next phase of making a bicycle, pedestrian and multi-use trail connections in the City. The Master Plan Update will focus on integrating the on-street and off-street networks identified in past planning efforts to create safe, comfortable transportation corridors that appeal to a wide range of users of all abilities. Results of the online interactive map will be available for review and comment at this first public workshop. http://www.charlottesville.org/index.aspx?page=1309
 
********************
Wednesday 6/18 Dinner and Bikes
7-10pm at The Bridge PAI, 209 Monticello Rd.
Come on out for a traveling road show of vegan food and bicycle inspiration!   Joshua Ploeg will delight with a vegan and gluten free buffet dinner, Elly Blue will present about Bikenomics and the economic case for bicycling, and Joe Biel will show either a program of short films or his new feature-length documentary, Aftermass, about the history of bicycle activism in Portland.  Plus, you can see Megan Bent’s Exhibition "There Is A Crack In Everything, That’s How The Light Gets In" about biking and disability up in the gallery.  The event is followed with a book signing, discussion of local issues, and perusing the traveling bookstore.  Seating is limited – email info@thebridgepai.org to reserve a seat.  Sponsored by the City of Charlottesville and The Bridge PAI.
 
********************
Wed. 6/18 Cville TimeBank Orientation
5-7pm at the Central Library (6/10), Jefferson Room (session at 5pm or at 6pm), or 5-7pm at Main Street Market, 418 W. Main St. (6/18)
We all have things to offer, we all have things we need.  Learn about Charlottesville's fun, friendly community for exchanging services like garden help, hair cuts, music lessons, and more!  Drop in to learn how TimeBank works, get to know the software, and sign up as a new member.  Plan to spend 45 minutes to an hour getting acquainted with timebanking, and the software used to track exchanges.  And, if you bring a laptop or wi-fi enabled tablet, they can get you started on the spot! http://cvilletimebank.com/
 
********************
Thursday 6/19 Better Business Challenge Awards Night
5:30-8pm at The Paramount on the Downtown Mall
The Better Business Challenge is rolling out the green carpet!  An Oscars-style event, Challenge Awards Night recognizes the 75+ local businesses, schools, and churches that have stepped up and made a deeper commitment to sustainability. In addition to awarding this year’s champions and top innovators, the night will include live music, prizes, photo-ops, and local celebrity special guests!  Food and drink are included in your ticket price. All members of the community are invited.  Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Purchase your tickets at The Paramount box office http://www.theparamount.net/category/events/ or by contacting info@cvillebetterbiz.org.
 
********************
Saturday 6/21 Water Monitoring Training
9am-3pm at Ivy Creek Education Building, 1780 Earlysville Rd.
Learn from Trout Unlimited (TU) how to monitor water quality throughout Marcellus Shale regions in Virginia’s national forests.  Wild Virginia will host this one-day training for citizen volunteers to learn how to properly conduct water quality monitoring which includes how to conduct chemical monitoring on water samples, measure stream flow, test water temperatures and turbidity and conduct visual assessments.  No prior experience necessary, but a serious commitment to ongoing monitoring once per month is expected. Free.  Sign up below at http://www.wildvirginia.org/recreation/?action=evregister&event_id=25
 
********************
Saturday 6/21 Laugh Your Way to Transcendental Bliss Mini-Retreat
1-4pm at the Gordon Ave. Library
A new study shows laughter sets off brain wave patterns (gamma) quite similar to those generated when experienced meditators apply their mindfulness skills. What if you combine the two to play with the experience of super-charging our gamma waves? Mirthful laughter followed by meditative silence, followed by more laughter, then more silence, and so on? Om yeah!  You don't need to be in shape to practice Laughter Yoga. If you can laugh, no matter what your mobility, you'll be able to participate.  Please email Leigh, yogalaughs@gmail.com, to register or join on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/events/1399274077022359/?ref_newsfeed_story_type=regular 
 
********************
Monday 6/23 Transition Town's Monthly Potluck & Discussion
7-8:30 at the Eco Village, 480E. Rio Rd., Lochlyn House
Join Transition Charlottesville Albemarle for an informal meal and conversation about all things sustainable in our community.  This month we'll be discussing the documentary "Gasland II" about fracking in the US.  Even if you haven't seen the film, we'll make sure you have the information to take part in the discussion.   If you can, bring your own place setting and a dish to share.  All are welcome!
 
********************
Tuesday 6/24 Beginning Beekeeping
4-6pm at Bellair Farm, 5275 Bellair Farm
As part of Bellair Farm's 2014 Workshop Series, Chiron Aldebaran, a local beekeeper with 7 years experience,  will teach you how to get your start in beekeeping on a small scale. This 2 hour course will teach newcomers and amateur hobbyists about how to get bees, where to acquire equipment, how to paint hives, install bees, feed them, and perform basic hive management practices through all seasons.  There will not be any live bees at this class, so protective equipment is unneccesary.  $25.  Register to bellairfarm@gmail.com.
 
********************
Saturday 6/28 Introduction to Construction Workshop
9am-4pm at The Living Energy Farm, 1022 Bibb Store Rd., Louisa
Nina Cohen will cover a number of elementary construction concepts, including the basics of accurate measuring, marking, and layout. The workshop will also include tutorials on several hand tools and power tools. This year they'll have more shelter and protection from the heat as the workshops will be held in their new kitchen.  A second construction workshop open only to women will be held later in the summer.  LEF asks for a $40 donation the workshop, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Please RSVP livingenergyfarm@gmail.com or call 434 282 6471 if you plan to attend. http://www.livingenergyfarm.org/
 
********************
Thursday 6/26 The Hidden Value of Eating Local
5:30-6:30pm at Culpeper Museum, 113 S. Commerce Street, Culpeper
If you're weighing the cost and health benefits of buying local, join Susan and Dean Vidal of Brightwood Vineyard and Farm in Madison County to discuss how to get the most from your investment in locally grown food. The hidden value isn't just in the form of better nutrition, but also supporting the growth of locally owned businesses.  Free.  http://www.pecva.org/events
 
********************
Sunday 6/29 Hunted and Gathered Dinner to Support PEC
5pm at Grace Estates, 5273 Mount Joliet Farm, Crozet
Take a step back in time with a hunted and foraged dinner set inside a teepee in a secluded area of Grace Estates, with guest chef Matt Greene of JM Stock Provisions. Wines from Grace Estates will be paired with a four-course rustic dinner. Proceeds support The Piedmont Environmental Council. Tickets are $100 and registration will open soon at http://www.hillandholler.org/events.php
 
********************
Announcing the new Events Calendar for Ecovillage Charlottesville
So many great events going on at the Ecovillage and the Center for Healthy Living!  You'll want to add this link to your favorites to stay informed: http://ecovillagecharlottesville.org/calendar/ .  Then make sure to attend their first house concert with celebrated Harpist/Storyteller, Eve Watters on June 22. 
 
********************
Sundays Ecovillage Work Party
1:30pm-5pm, potluck from 5:30-7pm at the Ecovillage, 480 E. Rio
The newly forming Lochlyn Ecovillage needs lots of help to make the land and the facilities as inviting and accessible as possible. Come for as much time as you want, or even just for the potluck dinner.  The work may include gardening, yard work, and landscaping, cleaning or minor maintenance working, or whatever other tasks need to be done that day.  Contact Dave Redding for more information: scpaddler@hotmail.com.
 
********************
Help 350 Central Virginia get solar power installed on Albemarle Schools!
Sign their petition and help move our community closer to a sustainable future:
https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/solar-power-for-albemarle-schools

6.

The Virginia Herb Festival  
June 14th and 15th at the Sunflower Cottage from 9:00 until 6 :00 each day
Admission
$5 per person with FREE Parking. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult, get in FREE 
 
The Virginia Herb Festival at The Sunflower Cottage
150 Ridgemont Road

Middletown, Virginia 22645
http://sunflowercottage.net/

 
 
7.
Sacred Plant Traditions  - Great Clinical classes 
http://www.sacredplanttraditions.com/
June 18th or 19th   9am - 4pm
Herb/Drug Interaction and Intro to Phytopharmacology
 With Mimi Hernandez, MS, RH(AHG) comes from a background as a clinical herbalist, educator, and ethnobotanist. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the American Herbalists Guild. She formerly served as the Director of the Appalachian
 
 
Healing and Releasing Trauma, Pain and Victimness
Friday        June 27        10am - 3pm
 
 Energetic Healing from an Indigenous Perspective
 Saturday       June 28        10am - 4pm
 
Working with Animal Medicines
Sunday         June 29            9am - 3pm
 
On our final day, we will learn how plants carry certain animal spirits within themselves. We will talk about when to use certain animal medicines and of the plants that carry different animals. We will be using song, herbs and meditation for each class.
 
Six Week Introduction to Herbal Healing
 
Starting next Tuesday!
Tuesdays  June 17 – July 22
Evenings Only  6:30 – 8:30pm
 
This six week series is great for beginners as well as those who want to deepen their knowledge and use of herbal medicine. This course will include history, herbal actions, apothecary practices, recipes, sacred use of plants and more. The weeks fly by as we spend time in the classroom, the kitchen, the lab and best of all, the garden. We will learn how to identify basic back yard medicines as well as those cultivated in the garden. We will learn harvest techniques, how to dry and preserve our medicines.
Fee $250 (Deposit: $50).
Fee includes all materials & text.
More Information and Registration
 
Woodland Walk - July 26 9:30 - 11:30
 
Shirlea is a professional forester and herbalist and has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the language of trees both from an ecological standpoint as well as medicinal uses. While the focus of these walks is tree identification, there will be a lot more information shared. All walks will be held at Walnut Creek Park and directions will be sent with registration. Class is limited to 13 participants.   $30.00  Information and Registration
 
Margi Flint Diagnostic tools and Clinical Pearls
 http://www.sacredplanttraditions.com/
 
         
9.
Join the Allegheny Mountain School for a FREE film showing of GROWING CITIES, an exciting documentary about urban farming across America on Thursday June 19^th at 7 pm, reception at 6:30 pm. Healy Hall, 1 Cardinal Drive, VA School for the Deaf and Blind, Staunton. Free!
 
We've partnered with Transition Staunton Augusta and the new VSDB Educational Farm at the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind to offer this film showing.  We'll also host a pre-screening reception and post-screening discussion.
 
Come at 6:30pm for a reception in Healy Hall* (the VSDB auditorium), where you can graze on farm fresh foodstuffs from the VSDB Educational Farm and mingle with some of the Fellows and staff of the Allegheny Mountain School and folks from Transition Staunton. 
http://alleghenymountainschool.org/


10.
June 14^th, 2014 Medicine Makers at Forrest Green Farm
Welcome to the third season of Medicine Makers!  Medicine Makers is designed to assist those who already have a foundation in the use of herbs for nutrition and medicine, by offering a place to come together in community to share our knowledge and experiences in Herbal Wisdom and create medicines fresh from the herb gardens on the farm. It is expected that participants joining the Medicine Makers community have a good foundation in herbal medicine, either through Forrest Green Farm’s Whole Living Course, or a similar course in herbal education. Each month we will see what herbs are at their prime to create a variety of nutritive and medicinal herbal items that may include vinegars, honeys, tinctures, oils, salves and flower essences.  We welcome you to be a participant each month.  The sharing of knowledge within the herbal community will enhance all who participate as we continue to be amazed at the healing properties of the plants on both physical and energetic levels.  You will be encouraged to connect with the plants from which your medicines are made, realizing the importance of intention in the creation of herbal medicines. We will gather each month 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/classes-events/medicine-makers/
 
 
11.
Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program
Application deadline June 12, 2014
 
The news here is that the BFRDP has been reinstated at a robust funding level, and the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Program (VBFRCP), originally launched with BFRDP funding, is now applying for additional BFRDP funding to continue and expand its program, which helps aspiring and beginning producers in Virginia to learn about whole farm planning, sustainable production practices, marketing, business management, and offers mentoring and other learning / training opportunities, as well as a "certified farm seekers" program to help aspiring farmers gain access to farmland. The VBFRCP includes over 25 partners (farms, nonprofit organizations like Virginia Association for Biological Farming, SustainFloyd, and Appalachian Sustainable Development, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and other agencies.  
 
VABF and SustainFloyd intend to continue their whole farm planning training programs under the new grant, assuming that we receive funding.
 
For more information on the VBFRCP, visit www.vabeginningfarmer.org, or contact the program coordinator, Dr. Kim Niewolny at Virginia Tech, tel: 540-31-5784, email niewolny@vt.edu
 
For more information on the BFRDP and this year's request for applications, visit http://sustainableagriculture.net/ blog/2014-bfrdp-rfa/ - links to additional information including the Request for Applications is available at this site.

 
12.
Virginia Natural Resources Leadership Institute
The Virginia Natural Resources Leadership Institute invites you to join the next class of leaders! Our leadership program consists of three-day sessions in six different locations around Virginia to focus on current and difficult 
environmental issues. We use a proven mix of mini-lectures, experiential role plays and exercises, stakeholder panel discussions and field trips on specific environmental hot topics to build your competencies in environmental issues, collaborative problem solving, and leadership. Applications are due June 13, 2014.
 
Read more about our program on our website.
Also, please be aware that it is now possible, after many requests, to 
attend just one of the six sessions as "single session" attendee.  More information and the application information can be found here.
 
For questions, please contact Program Manager Kelly Altizer - 434-924-6569 ; kaltizer@virginia.edu 
 
 
 13.


Backyard Poultry Workshop 
Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m. to 12 
 
Cost for the workshop is $10 per person and includes brunch and a complimentary copy of The Small-Scale Poultry Flock. Harvey Ussery, author of The Small-Scale Poultry Flock, and Molly Sharp, owner of Hanover County-based Fiddlesticks Farm, will speak on backyard poultry production.
Registration is required and will be capped at 40 participants. Interested persons must register online or call the Hanover-Caroline SWCD office at  (804) 537-5225, ext. 102.
For more Information, contact Pattie Bland – ppbland@hanovercounty.gov  (804)537-5225 x115
 
 
 14.
Fauquier Farmscaping Workshops
June 25th, 6 to 8 PM
Please join us at Fauquier Education Farm for this exciting workshop on using Farmscaping techniques in your garden to create the best possible habitat for all the good bugs out there. These beneficial insects naturally prey on a wide variety of garden pest, and all they will ask of you is to
mix the right kinds of flowering plants with your crops. Working with nature is a lot smarter and cheaper than fighting against it.
 
Contact Jim Hankins, Coordinator of The Fauquier Education Farm, if you
have any questions: 804.892.4492 
 
 
15.
Community DIG RVA  (Do it Green)
Join us for a day of adventure exploring possibilities of community living in Richmond. Engage with others sharing visions of how to build green community. DIG into ideas of green building, creating diversity, group decision making, local food, community gardens  and permaculture
 
Date: June 14, 2014. 8 AM - 5 PM
Location: Richmond Friends Meeting House
4500 Kensington Avenue
Richmond, VA 23221-2301
 
We are having workshops on:
- green building 
-local food, community gardens, permaculture
-group process, decision making, governance
-diversity (racial, intergenerational, economic), 
 
Registration - $22 includes lunch & refreshments
 
To register visit our website: www.communitydigrva.com 
 
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/communitydigrva
 
Questions contact us at - Email address: communitydigrva@gmail.com
 
 
16.
Water Resource Design Workshop
3 full days, July 26-28
Ashland Oregon
Instructors: Tom Ward (Tomi Hazel), Karen Taylor and Melanie Mindlin
 
Learn how to integrate and balance water resources on a small homestead or farm in Southern Oregon with Siskiyou Permaculture.  We will explore strategies for drought proofing, rainwater harvesting, greywater, irrigation district water utilization, small scale carbon farming and horticultural self-reliance based on careful use of water.  Summer is a great time to design water systems in preparation for doing earthworks in the fall and harvesting rainwater for the following year. This course uses the design charette format and students will produce conceptual designs.  More information and registration on our website at siskiyoupermaculture.com.
 
 
17. 
My name is Amanda R. Wilson. I am a Shenandoah Valley local and recent graduate of James Madison University. I just got back from a 6-month long farming internship at an organic permaculture farm in Costa Rica, during which I completed a month-long permaculture certification course. I am back in the Valley for the spring and summer season and I am looking for local, eco-conscious farms to work with. Being that I am new to the local premie scene, I was wondering if you guys had any resources or knew of anyone that needed some help! Contact
Amanda Wilson thaanksdesign@gmail.com for more information.
 
 
18.
Permaculture Design Course Through the Heart (PDCTTH)
 
Wed October 01 –Tue October 28, 2014 
Jiwa Damai, Mambal, Bali, Indonesia
 
This innovative program integrates the core principles of Permaculture design with Self exploration from a transpersonal psychological perspective. Experiencing Permaculture through the heart presents a unique opportunity to combine classroom Permaculture learning with “hands-on” experience, complementing the active physical engagement with the soil with an inner attitude of appreciation and loving alignment with the earth.
 
Sign up for our email list or like us on Facebook for the latest!
For further details please inquire: info@jiwadamai.net
or visit our website at www.jiwadamai.net
 
 
19.
Tenderfoot Farm and Artist Retreat, in Ashland, Virginia, is looking for a couple or single person to bring it to life. Trained in Biodynamic farming or organic practices a must. First hand experience with pigs or chickens a plus, or a willingness to do the research. An ability to use a chainsaw and fill a wood shed a plus. The ability to build fences and animal coops a plus. Having an artistic vision a plus. You are reliable, friendly, artistic (music, cooking, visual), keep an immaculate house, enjoy people and can share your space, have an immense need to grow things, and are a non smoker. In exchange for your gifts you will be housed free of rent and enjoy 2 houses and 93 acres to yourself most of the time, with occasional visits from us and artists  Please submit an introductory letter about yourself, your farming experience, and your vision along with your résumé.  Raasa Leela and Charles de Montebello
raasaleelademontebello@gmail.com
 
 
20.
Unusual and Beautiful 52 acre Farm in Staunton – secluded and quiet yet only 8 minutes  to 81 and 64
Organic certification possible immediately ( no spraying done on premises for 10 years)
Great candidate for permaculture and grass-fed livestock. Mostly pasture but about 10 acres in mature hardwoods.
Not too isolated either ( 8 minutes to downtown Historic Staunton and 45 minutes to Charlottesville)
Stunning Remodeled 4 bedroom 3 bath Virginia farmhouse with too many extras to detail, lots of mature shade trees and
very picturesque views.
Large tenant cottage with 2 bedrooms, full bath rents easily or use for farm help.
Huge Bank barn with facilities for any kind of livestock.
Very strong well. Presently cross-fenced for both cattle and horses.Riding Ring for your horses with beautiful views.
This is a unique property backing up to watershed land and is well protected from future encroachment by development.
Offered at $985,000. Please contact 540-290-6138 or email elfarm@aol.com
 
 
21. 
Farmers Market and Local Foods Promotion Program
Application deadline June 20, 2014
 
 
On May 8, Agricultural Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that an expanded Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program, funded by the 2014 Farm Bill, has now issued a Request for Applications, with a deadline of June 20.  From National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, http://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/ release-time-to-apply-for-local-farm-and- food-grants-and-loan-guarantees/ : 
The Agricultural Marketing Service, which administers FMLFPP, posted the Request for Applications (RFA) for $15 million in grants for direct-to-consumer outlets on their webpage shortly after the Secretary’s announcement.  The RFA for the $15 million in grants for local and regional food enterprises has been posted on a different AMSwebpage.  Applications are due June 20, 2014
 
For more information on the FMLFPP, visit http://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/ local-food-funding-open/
 



22.

Business & Industry Guaranteed Loan Local Food Enterprise Program Reach Extended
From National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition
 
In addition to FMLFPP, Secretary Vilsack announced the availability of $48 million in loan guarantees for local and regional food enterprises through the Business & Industry Guaranteed Loan Program (B&I) with the addition of an important clarification to help extend the program’s reach to help more farmers in rural areas. Federal loan guarantees are particularly important for start-up businesses in emerging sectors like local and regional food where commercial and other lenders are new to the sector and business models.  Applications for these loan guarantees are accepted on a rolling basis.  Applicants should refer to the B&I webpage and contact their local Rural Development office for details.
http://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/release-time-to-apply-for-local-farm-and-food-grants-and-loan-guarantees/ 
 
23.
Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program offers Technical Assistance Grants and Loans
Applications deadline June 30, 2014
 
On Tuesday, May 20th, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced in the Federal Register aNotice of Funding Available (NOFA) totaling approximately $25.5 million for the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP) for fiscal year 2014.  Of this amount, USDA expects to make approximately $1.5 million available for microlender technical assistance grants and $24 million available for loans.  The anticipated award announcement date is September 1, 2014.  According to the NOFA, MDOs may borrow a minimum of $50,000 and a maximum of $500,000.
 
The deadline for submitting an RMAP application is Monday, June 30, 2014, and application materials must be sent to sent to the applicant’s local USDA Rural Development State Office.
 
The application form, checklist, and NOFA for the current RMAP funding round are available here.
 
For additional details on the FY 2015 appropriations process, please check back on the NSAC blog or sign up for regular NSAC updates under “Stay Connected” on our homepage.
 
24.
PERMACULTURE DESIGN COURSE -- 2014 Summer/Fall  near Charlottesville
 
$150 (Approximately 30 Spaces Available) -- REGISTER TODAY -- Call Rahul Maitra at 914-806-4811 and e-mail: DesignPermaculture@gmail.com
 
Course Dates (classes are from 10am - 6pm):
Sunday - June 8, 2014
Sunday - June 15, 2014
Sunday - June 29, 2014
Sunday - August 3, 2014
Sunday - August 10, 2014
Sunday - August 17, 2014
Sunday - August 24, 2014
Sunday - September 7, 2014
Sunday - September 14, 2014
Sunday - September 21, 2014
Sunday - September 28, 2014
Sunday - October 5 2014
Sunday - October 12, 2014 ----- we may or may not need this date