Regional Small Farms

Chicken Health, First Aid, Biosecurity, and Safe Handling
2019-10-22 17:30 - 20:30 UTC | Norm Dicks Government Building – Chambers, 345 6th St., Bremerton, WA, 98337, United States
This series is intended for those who want to deepen their knowledge in raising poultry from the backyard beginner to the small-scale commercial poultry producer.
Each class is $25. Youth enrolled in 4H or FFA may attend for free with an attending adult. If you are in need of scholarship assistance, please contact Kellie Henwood at least two weeks before the event. kellie.henwood@wsu.edu or (360) 379-5610 ext. 201
When: October 22nd, 5:30-8:30pm
Where: Council Chambers at the Norm Dicks Building, 345 6th St., Bremerton, WA
Tickets: https://poultryclass4.brownpapertickets.com/
Section 1: Chicken Health & First Aid
Students will learn about avian first aid kits, prevention/treatment for common issues such as external/internal parasites, diet related issues, and respiratory issues.
Section 2: Biosecurity
Ric Torgerson of the WSDA will present about handling poultry safely, poultry diseases and pathogens, along with best biosecurity practices.
Speakers:
– Lisa van Horn, WillowCroft Farm and Peninsula Poultry Breeders
– Ric Torgerson, WSDA Field Veterinarian

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Stat Chat - Kitsap County Census of Agriculture Meeting
2019-11-04 17:30 - 19:00 | WSU Kitsap Classroom, 345 6th St., Bremerton, WA, 98337, United States
Join us for a “Stat Chat” on the 2017 Census of Agriculture and how it applies to Kitsap County.
We will be joined by Chris Mertz, of the USDA/NASS Northwest Regional Field Office. He will be discussing the data and results of the recently published 2017 Census of Agriculture, presented with emphasis on Kitsap County and State of Washington data.
Participants will learn the current statistics on acreage, farm numbers, economics and demographics of Kitsap agriculture. Also, information on how to access the data will be shared as well as time for Q&A.
When: Monday, November 4th from 5:30pm – 7pm
Where: Norm Dicks Government Building – WSU Classroom #406
This meeting is open to all. Content presented is applicable to Farmers, elected officials, community organizations working within the food system, and any community member interested in local agriculture. Join us!
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Jess Sappington (345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / jess.sappington@wsu.edu / 360-337-7157 Ext. 6271) at least two weeks prior to the event.

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Winterize Your Poultry Flock
2019-11-14 10:00 - 12:00
Do you have a small egg-laying poultry flock? Come learn about best practices and tips for winterizing your birds with Lisa Van Horn of the Peninsula Poultry Breeders! This is the 5th class in our 2019 Poultry Education Series. Classes are meant for the backyard beginner or small-scale commercial poultry producer.
When: November 14th, 2019
Where: Clallam County PUD Building (104 Hooker Rd, Sequim, WA)
Tickets: https://poultryclass5.brownpapertickets.com/
Each class is $25. Youth enrolled in 4H or FFA may attend for free with an attending adult. If you are in need of scholarship assistance, please contact Kellie Henwood at least two weeks before the event. kellie.henwood@wsu.edu or (360) 379-5610 ext. 201
Topics include:
Winter Housing

Keeping warm and dry
Importance of ventilation
Litter needs
Outdoor areas
Combating boredom

Winter Nutrition

Feeds for winter
How and when to add calories
Supplements for winter support
Water during cold spells

Winter Health

Parasite control
Winter Health Risks
Molting

Winter Laying

A Hen’s Natural Laying Cycle
How to use supplemental lighting
Pros and cons of using supplemental lighting

Thinking Toward Spring

Adding Chicks to your Existing Flock

About our speaker:
While Lisa has kept backyard flocks of poultry since her college days in a co-housing community, she did not become a serious student of poultry breeding and genetics until she retired and began raising purebred chickens. Lisa quickly became interested in preservation of heritage breeds, and realized that these original homestead birds were at risk unless they became more integral to a healthy food system. Her desire to provide families with an alternative local supply for healthy, productive chickens led to her interest in helping form Peninsula Poultry Breeders. Lisa’s formal background is in biological and behavioral sciences and her varied career includes stints as a wildlife biologist, high school biology teacher, and public affairs director for a large municipal agency.

WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Kellie Henwood at 121 Oak Bay Rd, Port Hadlock, 360-379-5610, kellie.henwood@wsu.edu, at least two weeks prior to the event.

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Cascadia Grains Conference
2020-01-17 08:00 - 2020-01-18 20:00 | South Puget Sound Community College, 2011 Mottman Rd SW, Olympia, WA, 98512, United States
The 8th Cascadia Grains Conference will bring together 300 farmers, bakers, brewers, distillers, brokers, investors, policy-makers and others to strengthen the role of grains in the agricultural and food economy of the Pacific Northwest.
The Friday Field Trips throughout the region and the full Conference on Saturday at the South Puget Sound Community College features workshops and hands-on classes that focus on three value-added grain enterprises: poultry and livestock feed, brewing and distilling, and artisan baking. Over the last three years the conference has developed into key educational event for producers and end-users and an important opportunity to network and collaborate along the value chain. Also included in Saturday will be a Resource Fair and Networking Sessions as well as a full breakfast, lunch and dinner. The conference will conclude with a Best of the Cascadia Tasting featuring local ales and spirits.
At the conference:
* Farmers learn about grain production, connect with scale appropriate buyers, and learn strategies on increasing demands for cereals used for poultry and livestock feeds, artisan breads, brewing, and distilling.
* Processors & end-users get an inside look into grain production, quality, and brokering relationships to get the grain you want and need.
* Investors, brokers & local government officials get the scoop on rising investment and policy opportunities.

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2020 Women In Agriculture Conference
2020-01-25 08:00 - 16:00
Registration is OPEN

Join us for inspiration, knowledge and networking Saturday, January 25, 2020 for the 8th Annual Women in Agriculture Conference.

“HEALTHY FARMS” is the theme for the eighth annual Women in Agriculture Conference. Experience an engaging, interactive day full of inspiration, learning and networking with other women farmers. This is a one-day event held simultaneously at sites throughout Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana and Washington.

The day begins with learning how to cultivate your personal resiliency to handle all the “ups and downs” as a woman farmer. It’s no secret that things can be tough for farmers, whether it is things we can control or issues we try to control when we can’t. The stress in farming has always existed, but the levels can soar during times of high costs and low returns. Positive psychology – using our personal strengths – to focus on intentional well-being and to thrive during every challenge and change is a skill you will practice and learn.

The day also includes a panel of local women farmers. They will talk about the different ways they balance their lives and how they celebrate the job of doing what they love the most! Participants will have the opportunity to meet farmers from their area, compare jobs, ask and answer questions and build a community network. It will be a full day of laughing, learning and networking!

The final take-away message with the cap note speaker will be all about mindfulness. We will learn how to “use our minds to change our brains” for the good. We all want to be calm, contented and centered. We will learn how to cultivate a mindful presence and seed positivity into each day. You will leave this conference with new friends, new ways to farm and new strengths to do what we love to do every day!

Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and interact. It will be a full day of learning and networking!

Mark your calendar and join other women to learn, network and be ready to take action!

LOCATIONS:

BREMERTON

When: Saturday, Jan 25th 2020 (Check-in 8am / Conference 8:30am)

Where: Norm Dicks Government Building – Chambers Conference Room (345 6th St., Bremerton WA 98337)
Tickets: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4460170

PORT ANGELES
When: Saturday, Jan 25th, 2020 (Check-in 8am / Conference 8:30am)
Where: Peninsula College Rm E242 (1502 E. Lauridsen Blvd., Port Angeles, WA 98362)
Tickets: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4475375

Ticket Pricing for both sites: Early bird = $30 / Registration after Jan. 17th = $35
Students = $20
Free parking in side lot, street parking 2 hours only.
Lunch provided by local caterer.

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Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training
2020-01-31 08:00 - 17:00, 2020-02-20 08:00 - 17:00 | Jamestown SKlallam Tribal Center, 1033 Old Blyn Hwy, Sequim, WA, 98382, United States
Who Should AttendFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and co-management of natural resources and food safety. The PSA Grower Training Course is one way to satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in § 112.22(c) that requires ‘At least one supervisor or responsible party for your farm must have successfully completed food safety training at least equivalent to that received under standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.’
What to Expect at the PSA Grower Training Course
The trainers will spend approximately seven hours of instruction time covering content contained in these seven modules:

Introduction to Produce Safety
Worker Health, Hygiene, and Training
Soil Amendments
Wildlife, Domesticated Animals, and Land Use
Agricultural Water (Part I: Production Water; Part II: Postharvest Water)
Post-harvest Handling and Sanitation
How to Develop a Farm Food Safety Plan

In addition to learning about produce safety best practices, key parts of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements are outlined within each module. There will be time for questions and discussion, so participants should come prepared to share their experiences and produce safety questions.
Benefits of Attending the Course
The course will provide a foundation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and co-management information, FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements, and details on how to develop a farm food safety plan. Individuals who participate in this course are expected to gain a basic understanding of:

Microorganisms relevant to produce safety and where they may be found on the farm
How to identify microbial risks, practices that reduce risks, and how to begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm
Parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one
Requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet them.

After attending the entire course, participants will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies they have completed the training course. To receive an AFDO certificate, a participant must be present for the entire training and submit the appropriate paperwork to their trainer at the end of the course.
Visit this website for the latest Train the Trainer Information: https://producesafetyalliance.cornell.edu/training/train-trainer-course/.
Costs to Attend
Total costs to attend the PSA Grower Training Course is $50. This price is subsidized by WSU and the fee will increase for future PSA Grower Trainings.
Includes materials, certificate, lunches and refreshments.
Dr. Faith Critzer is lead trainer.
Additional Information
For questions related to registering for the course, please contact:
Cathy Blood, Events Coordinator
blood@wsu.edu, 509-335-2845
For any other questions, please contact:
Faith Critzer, Produce Safety Extension Specialist
faith.critzer@wsu.edu, 509-786-9203
Funding for this training was made possible, in part, by the Food and Drug Administration through grant PAR-16-137. The views expressed in written materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does any mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organization imply endorsement by the United States Government

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BRIDGING THE GAP WORKSHOP
2020-02-04 16:00 - 18:00 | Eagles Nest Community Room – 1195 NW Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton, WA 98311, 1195 NW Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton, WA, 98311, United States
Small-Scale Produce Farmers!

Come learn best practices you can implement on your farm to minimize food safety risk, increase product quality, meet current regulations, and keep your customers happy and healthy.

When: February 4th, 4pm to 6pm

Where: Kitsap County Fairgrounds – Eagles Nest Meeting Room (1195 NW Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton, WA)

Tickets: This is a FREE workshop hosted by the Regional Small Farms team and Washington State Department of Agriculture. To reserve your spot, please visit the Brown Paper Ticket link:

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4494856

WORKSHOP DETAILS:

Increasingly, small farms must navigate a complex set of produce safety regulations, market standards and buyer needs. This workshop will help farmers cut through the confusion and identify which standards apply to their farm and how to meet them.

The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) will walk farmers through practices they would need to stay current with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Topics will include managing risk from humans, animals, soil, water and tools and equipment. WSDA will also provide insights and resources on how to start a food safety plan.

Come learn practical methods to manage microbial growth and contamination from the start of planting to sale!

___________

WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Jess Sappington (345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / jess.sappington@wsu.edu / 360-337-7157 Ext. 6271) at least two weeks prior to the event.

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Basic Fruit Tree Care and Pruning Class 1
2020-02-22 10:00 - 12:00
Join Kitsap Harvest and Alan Lowe of the Peninsula Fruit Club, for a new Basic Fruit Tree Care & Pruning class offering. Classes are held in-field, and participants will need to dress weather appropriate and bring work gloves. Pruning tools will be provided for practice, but participants are welcome to bring tools they are not familiar using for hands on guidance.
Alan will discuss the basics of fruit tree health, pruning tools, as well as demonstrate proper pruning techniques. The second part of class participants will get hands on pruning practice. This class is intended to provide beginners the knowledge and confidence to begin caring for their fruit trees. Backyard gardeners, new small acreage farmers and homeowners with fruit trees on their property are all encouraged to attend!
When: There are three class offerings to choose from:
Saturday, February 22nd 10am to 12pm – South Kitsap Location
Sunday, February 23rd 10am to 12pm – Bremerton Location
Saturday, February 29th 10am to 12pm – North Kitsap Location
*Location address will be given via email the week of the event selected
Cost: $20
All ticket sales go towards supporting the Kitsap Harvest gleaning program!

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Blueberry Pruning Workshop
2020-02-22 12:00 - 15:00 | Crescent Grange Hall, 50724 WA-112, 50724 WA-112, Port Angeles, 98363, United States
Join Master Gardener, Jeanette Stehr-Green, and farmer Gary Heaton of Blueberry Haven Farm for an informative and hands-on blueberry pruning workshop. This workshop is for farmers or berry growers.
Saturday February 22, 2020
12-3pm
$25 per person*
Topics include:
-Basic blueberry pruning principles and techniques for optimal fruit production
-Growth patterns of blueberry canes
-Considerations that affect pruning practices such as bush growth habit, vigor, neglect and other production methods
-Renovate older, neglected plants
Location:
12-1pm – Crescent Grange Hall, 50724 Hwy 112 Port Angeles
1-3pm – Blueberry Haven Farm, 173 Lewallen Rd, Port Angeles
The first part of the workshop will take place at the Crescent Grange Hall for instruction and presentation. The latter part of the workshop will take place about 3 miles down the road at Blueberry Haven Farm. Travel is not provided to each location – please plan on driving to the farm.
Please bring the following:
-Warm and dry clothes and footwear for outdoor weather for the afternoon on-farm pruning demonstration.
-Gloves
-Hand pruners and/or loppers
-Lunch or snacks and beverage
-Notepad and a writing utensil
Lunch is not provided.
Please note that wheelchair accessibility is available at the Grange location only. Unfortunately, the farm’s uneven terrain is not wheelchair accessible.
*If workshop cost is a barrier, please contact Kellie Henwood at kellie.henwood@wsu.edu or (360) 379-5610 ext. 201
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Kellie Henwood (121 Oak Bay Rd, Port Hadlock, WA 98339 / kellie.henwood@wsu.edu / (360) 379-5610 ext. 201) at least two weeks prior to event.

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Basic Fruit Tree Care and Pruning Class 2
2020-02-23 10:00 - 12:00

Basic Fruit Tree Care and Pruning Class 3
2020-02-29 10:00 - 12:00
Join Kitsap Harvest and Alan Lowe of the Peninsula Fruit Club, for a new Basic Fruit Tree Care & Pruning class offering. Classes are held in-field, and participants will need to dress weather appropriate and bring work gloves. Pruning tools will be provided for practice, but participants are welcome to bring tools they are not familiar using for hands on guidance.
Alan will discuss the basics of fruit tree health, pruning tools, as well as demonstrate proper pruning techniques. The second part of class participants will get hands on pruning practice. This class is intended to provide beginners the knowledge and confidence to begin caring for their fruit trees. Backyard gardeners, new small acreage farmers and homeowners with fruit trees on their property are all encouraged to attend!
When: There are three class offerings to choose from:
Saturday, February 22nd 10am to 12pm – South Kitsap Location
Sunday, February 23rd 10am to 12pm – Bremerton Location
Saturday, February 29th 10am to 12pm – North Kitsap Location
*Location address will be given via email the week of event selected
Cost: $20
All ticket sales go towards supporting the Kitsap Harvest gleaning program!

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CANCELED "Dirt Talk" - Small Ruminants & Agritourism
2020-03-14 10:00 - 12:00
This event has been canceled. We will post a new day/time when the event is rescheduled.

Please contact, Jess Sappington at jess.sappington@wsu.edu if you have questions.

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POST-PONED Soil Health Workshop
2020-04-22 09:00 - 15:00 | FinnRiver Farm, 142 Barn Swallow Road, Chimacum, WA, 98325, United States
POST-PONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Soil Testing, Cover Cropping & Monitoring Soil Health on Your Farm
Join the WSU Regional Small Farms Program and Finnriver Farm for a soils field day workshop. This workshop will include both indoor presentations and an outdoor field walk.
WHEN: Wed April 22nd, 9am-2pm
WHERE: Finnriver Farm, 124 Center Rd, Chimacum
COST: $25
Workshop Topics Include:
Soil Testing: Interpreting Soil Test Results
-Walk through an example
-Fertility management decisions after soil test results
How does one monitor soil health on their farm?
-Quick nitrate testing
-Reduced tillage practices
-Soil health assessments (short and long term)
Cover Cropping
-Overview
-Varieties for PNW
-Seasonal timeline of cover cropping activities on farm
-Equipment needed
Speakers include:
-Keith Kisler, owner of Finnriver Farm
-Doug Collins, WSu Puyallup Extension Faculty with the Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources and an affiliate faculty with the WSU Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. His extension programs and research focus on soil quality and vegetable and fruit production for small farms.
-Nathan Stacey, Post Doctoral Researcher at WSU Puyallup Research & Extension Center

WSU Refund Policy: Workshop/class/event registration fees will be refunded to participants, minus a small processing fee, no less than 7 days prior to the event. To receive a refund, contact the event coordinator.
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Kellie Henwood (121 Oak Bay Rd, Port Hadlock, WA 98339 / kellie.henwood@wsu.edu / (360) 379-5610 ext. 201) at least two weeks prior to event.

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VIRTUAL Dirt Talk - Small Ruminants & Agritourism
2020-05-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual Zoom Meeting, Anywhere you are
Join Roni Smith of The Smithshyre as she leads an open discussion on raising and caring for small ruminants. She will share their farms journey, and the evolution to introducing agritourism on their farm in the form of goat yoga.
This is an online networking event, not a class. It is an opportunity for our farmers to come together and discuss topics of interest. These events are open to any new or existing farmer who wants to join in!
When: May 12th, 10am to 12pm
Where: Online Event – Registration Required
Tickets: This is a FREE event, but you must register to attend!
More info on our host:
Roni is a local food advocate, farmer and RN. She grew up in North Dakota spending summers on her grandparents cattle farm. Her and her husband Erin started growing their own food about 8 years ago with a focus on sustainable and organic living. They raise fruit, produce, chickens, turkeys, sheep and dairy goats. Recently, they have ventured into the area of “agritourism” by launching a “goat yoga” program.
In a world of chemical focused animal care, finding a path of natural and organic care is a challenge, “but totally worth it”. The group will discuss the topic of both goats and sheep, kidding/lambing, worming, feed and shelter and anything else participants are wondering about. Come prepared with your questions and Roni will share her insight and resources to help you find the path that is right for you and your herd.
What is Dirt Talk?
Dirt Talk is a quarterly get together, hosted by WSU Regional Small Farms and the Kitsap Community & Agricultural Alliance, in conjunction with a local farmer willing to share their expertise in a given topic. Events are held in a supportive yet informal atmosphere, that allows participants to share, exchange perspectives, and learn from each other without pressure.
Events are open to all new and current farmers!

WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Jess Sappington (345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / jess.sappington@wsu.edu / 360-337-7157 Ext. 6271) at least two weeks prior to the event.

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Dirt Talk - Intro to Biochar Production and Uses
2020-09-30 18:30 - 20:00
Dirt Talks are farmer to farmer networking opportunities for farmers to share their knowledge about a topic of their choice and connect with other farmers. Join Francesco Tortorici of Olympic Biochar share his knowledge!
What is Biochar?
Biochar is basically a carbon product that is similar to charcoal or activated carbon but has its own unique set of properties. There are many different types of biochar created from different carbon sources (wood, sawdust, poultry litter, etc.) and using different methods of pyrolysis (burning). Biochar can be added to the soil to help improve soil moisture retention (Glaser et al. 2002, Basso et al. 2013, Imhoff and Nakhli 2017, Trippe and Phillips 2018), reduce runoff (Imhoff and Nakhli 2017), increase soil sorption potential to limit chemical and nutrient losses via leaching to the groundwater (Tian et al. 2014, 2016), add carbon to the soil (biochar is carbon), and augment root penetration (Bruun et al. 2014). Biochar can also alter the microbial reactions in all phases of soil nutrient cycles (Gul and Whalen 2016). Moreover, biochar can increase crop yields (Jeffery et al. 2011, Biederman and Harpole 2013, Liu et al. 2013).
Using Zoom
Because of security issues, you must have your own Zoom account to participate, and you must have your Zoom account set up and be registered for the webinar at least three hours before the webinar start time.
You can easily create a free Zoom account if you do not already have one from this link: https://zoom.us/freesignup/
Be sure you register with the same name and email address that you used for creating your Zoom account.
New to Zoom? The link below contains basic instructions for how to join a Zoom meeting.
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362193-Joining-a-Meeting
The video is only a couple of minutes long and is very helpful. On the same page, the Overview section below the video includes links to download the Zoom application, along with a link to join a Test Meeting.
Troubleshooting Zoom
We have learned a few things from past Zoom sessions that we’d like to pass on to you to minimize problems with logging in. Most of the issues seem to be problems unique to each user and device, and we have no ability to troubleshoot during the class. But each of the tips below has worked for someone.
·         New to Zoom? Be sure to log on early so you have time to try these tips if something doesn’t work right:
·         If you are using Zoom through your web browser, try downloading and using the desktop client instead. In fact, it may be good for everyone to download and have this ready in advance.
·         If you are using a phone or tablet (either Android or IOS), use the Zoom app instead of using a web browser.
***Please note this meeting will be recorded and available to the public for viewing after.

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Agricultural Entrepreneurship
2021-02-02 18:00 - 20:30 | Virtual Zoom Meeting, Anywhere you are
The WSU Regional Small Farms program will be offering Agricultural Entrepreneurship, a 9-week in-depth business planning course for farmers in Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap counties. The course features a full line-up of local guest speakers including bankers, business professionals, and successful farm owners with a special emphasis on the financial and legal issues unique to farm-based businesses.
The course covers evaluating resources, planning and research, legal and management issues, marketing strategies, budgets and financial statements along with how to cultivate capital resources. During the course, participants will develop a business plan they can literally take to the bank to finance a new enterprise or expand an existing farm-based business. Participants will join a statewide cohort, including a full line-up of guest experts and farmer speakers, while also engaging in networking and support through regional breakout rooms.
The 9-week class series is being offered fully online through Zoom Tuesday evenings from 6pm – 8:30pm, starting February 2nd and running through March 30th. Tickets are $125, with scholarships being available for veteran farmers and anyone for whom the fee may be a barrier. Contact your local extension agent for full scholarship information.
When: Tuesdays 6pm – 8:30pm, February 2nd – March 30th
Where: Online via Zoom
Cost: $125 per farm household (for up to 3 people per farm), scholarships available
To register visit www.cultivatingsuccesswa.org.
Registration closes January 29th.

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USDA Grant Programs - Infosession and Farmer Q&A
2021-02-25 10:00 - 11:00
USDA Grant Programs can be very useful for farms, yet the application process and knowing when the right time to apply can be daunting. Join the North Olympic Development Council and WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program as we lead a discussion about upcoming USDA Grant Program applications and how each program may work for your farm. We will also have a Q&A session with a local farm who has successfully applied for and received USDA funding on their farm. Farmers will share their lessons learned for farmers considering applying.
Guest speakers include Carlotta Donisi with USDA Rural Development and Ryan McCarthey from Dungeness Valley Creamery.
This free webinar is made possible by funding from USDA Rural Development and will be recorded for farmers to watch at a later date.

Register in advance for this webinar is required:
https://wsu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wUb-4SXpRcO9Tx0ezl5V2Q

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

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Farm Human Resources and Employee Management Series: Setting Your Farm Up for Hiring Employees
2021-03-25 10:00 - 11:00
Farm Human Resources and Employee Management Series: Part 1
Thursday March 25th, 10-11am – Setting Your Farm Up for Hiring Employees
Thursday April 1st, 10-11am – Employment Insurance
Thursday April 8th, 10-11am – Costs of Farm Labor
Presented by North Olympic Development Council and WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program. Thanks to grant funding from the USDA Rural Business Development Program, this free webinar series is Part 1 of on-going educational webinars and workshop opportunities about Farm Human Resources and Employee Management. The target audience for this webinar series are farmers who have not yet or just started hiring farm labor/employees.
Description of webinar series below:
Thursday March 25th, 10-11am – Setting Your Farm Up for Hiring Employees
Topics covered:

Payroll services needed
Challenges finding consistent labor
How to find labor locally/regionally/nationally to create local jobs
How to use your labor efficiently
Hear from an experienced local farmer about farm labor successes and challenges

Thursday April 1st, 10-11am – Employment Insurance
Topics covered:

The insurance requirements of covering employees on the farm
Owned or lease land – how do properties need to be covered?
Risk activities – employees using equipment, driving farm vehicles and other activities to consider
Hear from knowledgeable farm insurance agents

Thursday April 8th, 10-11am – Costs of Farm Labor
Topics covered:

Federal and state tax requirements for hiring labor
Setting up new payroll services on your farm – rules and regulations
The costs of providing benefits for your employees
WA Labor & Industries (L&I) labor law requirements
Hear from a knowledgeable accountant and WA Labor & Industries staff

Register here: https://wsu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__8IFFpOIRZ68hJZFXGlNUA
Webinars are free, but registration is required. Series will be recorded and available for viewing.

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Farm Human Resources and Employee Management Series: Employment Insurance
2021-04-01 10:00 - 11:00

Farm Human Resources and Employee Management Series: Costs of Farm Labor
2021-04-08 10:00 - 11:00

Dirt Talk Integrated Pest Management
2021-05-24 18:30 - 19:30
Join us for our next Dirt Talk Farmer-to-Farmer networking and learning event on May 24th at 6:30pm. We will be joined by Laurel Moulton, WSU Regional Small Farms Pest Specialist, and Betsey Wittick, owner of Laughing Crow Farm in Bainbridge and farmer/viticulturist at Bainbridge Vineyards. They will be sharing helpful pest identification and management information for farmers in our region and leading an interactive discussion with participants on what problems they are seeing in their own fields. This is a planned three-part discussion with the first session focusing on Cut Worms, Cabbage Maggot and Carrot Rust Fly.
When: Monday, May 24th 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Where: Online Zoom Event – Registration Required
Tickets: This is a FREE event, but you must register to attend!
Register at https://dirttalkipm.bpt.me
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What is Dirt Talk?
Dirt Talk is hosted by WSU Regional Small Farms in conjunction with a local farmer willing to share their expertise in a given topic. Events are held in a supportive yet informal atmosphere, that allows participants to share, exchange perspectives, and learn from each other without pressure.
Events are open to all new and current farmers!
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Jess Sappington (345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / jess.sappington@wsu.edu / 360- 228-7308) at least two weeks prior to the event.

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Dirt Talk - Wireworms: Lifecycle and Integrated Management Strategies
2021-07-07 18:30 - 19:30
Dirt Talk – Wireworms: Lifecycle and Integrated Management Strategies

When: Wednesday, July 7th, 2021 @ 6:30pm
Where: Online Zoom Event
Registration: Free event but registration is required.

Join us for our next Dirt Talk Farmer-to-Farmer event on July 7th, 2021 at 6:30pm. We will be joined by Dr. Brook Brouwer, director of Washington State University Extension in San Juan County, and Laurel Moulton, IPM Specialist for our Regional Small Farms program. Wireworms, the larva of click beetles, are generalist soil dwelling pest that feeds on a wide range of crops. By feeding on seeds, transplants, roots and tubers wireworms reduce crop stands, performance and marketability. Severe infestations can result in crop loss of over 50%. Wireworms are long lived (3-5 years) and control options, particularly in organic production systems, are very limited creating a persistent problem for farmers and gardeners. We will discuss the basic biology and lifecycle of wireworms, monitoring techniques, and various approaches to management including results from research in western Washington.

Bio: Dr. Brook Brouwer is San Juan County WSU Extension Director and regional agricultural specialist. He works with diverse vegetable, livestock, forage and grain growers on sustainable production practices and helps facilitate development of local food system infrastructure through research, education and capacity building.
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What is Dirt Talk?
Dirt Talk is hosted by WSU Regional Small Farms in conjunction with a local farmer willing to share their expertise in a given topic. Events are held in a supportive yet informal atmosphere, that allows participants to share, exchange perspectives, and learn from each other without pressure.
Events are open to all new and current farmers!
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Jess Sappington (345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / jess.sappington@wsu.edu / 360- 228-7308) at least two weeks prior to the event.

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Is a Small Farm in Your Future?
2021-08-03 17:30 - 20:30
¿Es una pequeña granja en su futuro?

Being Offered Statewide, Online, Bilingually, and for FREE!
August 3rd, 5:30-8:30pm
Learn more and register here. Aprende más.
This entry-level Cultivating Success course will be offered in a one-night intensive workshop-style and was designed to help those interested in exploring the development of a small farm enterprise. It will either weed or feed you!
Are you looking for land and don’t know where to start? Have you recently bought land, retired, or looking to shift your hobby farm or garden into a full-fledged business? Is a Small Farm in Your Future? If so, this is a great place to start! Work with course facilitators and other class participants to review your personal resources, explore different farming options, and listen in on a farmer panel discussion. Walk away with an action plan in hand and a better understanding of the diverse options for a small farm future!
A special thanks to the WDVA for including us a VA Farm Grant and all our other contributing partners.

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Agricultural Leases 101
2021-09-08 10:00 - 11:00
Hosted by the WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program and the North Olympic Development Council thanks to grant funding from the USDA Rural Business Development Grant Program.
When leasing land, developing a strong agricultural lease is important to all parties involved. In this webinar, we will walk participants through important considerations of an ag lease.
Topics include:
-Definition of terms in a lease and sample language
-The importance of having a lease when leasing land as a farmer or landowner
-Overall lease structure – the nuts and bolts of an ag lease
-Examples of strong ag lease templates
-Determining ag lease rates
Speakers include:
Denis Stearns, Attorney
Mark Bowman, NODC Sustainable Agriculture Program Coordinator
Kellie Henwood, WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program Coordinator
This webinar will be recorded and included on our WSU Extension online learning library.
***Please note, participants will need to be logged into a zoom account in order to join the webinar. Zoom accounts are free. Sign up here: https://zoom.us/
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office.

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Preparing for a Farm Loan
2021-10-28 10:00 - 11:00
A free webinar hosted by the North Olympic Development Council and WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program thanks to a grant from the USDA Rural Business Development Grant Program.
As farmers looking to purchase ag land, here is a session just for you. Two experts in the field of agriculture real estate lending share their perspective on this topic.
Some of the areas they will cover include:
-How to prepare your management and financial acumen to work with a lender.
-What information about your existing business and proposed operation are lenders looking for.
-What are the property issues lenders see when trying to finance land.
-How best to use the resources of Farm Service Agency and Craft3.
Guest speakers include:
Erika Lindholm, Craft3
In her role as Sr. Business Lender – Team Manager, Erika sources and originates commercial loans in the Olympic Peninsula region as well as supervises and supports a team of lenders in other rural parts of Craft3’s Washington and Oregon footprint. Craft3 has a strategic focus on Food and Agriculture businesses and Erika also serves on the Board of Directors of North Olympic Land Trust. Craft3 is a partner in the Jefferson LandWorks Collaborative whose mission is to keep working lands viable.
Ransom Satterlee, USDA Farm Service Agency
Ransom’s role as a loan officer for the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is to: provide information about FSA’s loan programs, review and process loan applications, and work with farmers, ranchers, and agriculture lenders to finance operating costs, equipment, and real estate purchases for farms in the greater Spokane region (Asotin, Garfield, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Spokane, Stevens, and Whitman counties).

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Dirt Talk - Integrated Pest Management: Clubroot
2021-11-04 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual Zoom Meeting, Anywhere you are
Join us for our next Dirt Talk Farmer-to-Farmer networking and learning event on November 4th at 6pm. We will be joined by Laurel Moulton, WSU Regional Small Farms Pest Specialist, and Betsey Wittick, owner of Laughing Crow Farm in Bainbridge and farmer/viticulturist at Bainbridge Vineyards. They will be sharing helpful pest identification and management information for farmers in our region and leading an interactive discussion with participants on what problems they are seeing in their own fields. This is the final discussion in our three-part integrated pest management events for 2021 where we will be focusing on Clubroot.

When: November 4th, 6pm – 7:30pm
Where: Online Zoom Event – Registration Required
Tickets: This is a FREE event, but you must register to attend!

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What is Dirt Talk?
Dirt Talk is hosted by WSU Regional Small Farms in conjunction with a local farmer willing to share their expertise in a given topic. Events are held in a supportive yet informal atmosphere, that allows participants to share, exchange perspectives, and learn from each other without pressure.
Events are open to all new and current farmers!
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Jess Sappington (345 6th St. Suite 550, Bremerton WA / jess.sappington@wsu.edu / 360- 228-7308) at least two weeks prior to the event.

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E-Commerce Marketing Strategies for Farms and Food Businesses
2021-11-09 10:00 - 11:00
A free webinar hosted by the North Olympic Development Council and WSU Extension Regional Small Farms Program thanks to a grant from the USDA Rural Business Development Grant Program.
As the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted consumer buying habits, farm and food businesses need to rethink their e-commerce marketing strategies. Is your e-commerce platform and presence up to the challenge? Susan Shoemaker, Business Assistance Specialist with North Olympic Development Council, will share her thoughts on several topics including:
-Optimization of your website and online search presence.
-Practical tips on using social media.
-The development and linking of websites and e-commerce platforms.
-And some thoughts on setting up a website and e-commerce platform if starting from scratch.

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Country Living Expo and Cattlemen's Winterschool
2022-01-27 - 2022-01-29
23 BRAND NEW CLASSES for this year’s Expo, with 83 total!
The Country Living Expo and Cattlemen’s Winterschool is going all virtual again and continuing its mission of uniting farmers, homesteaders, nature enthusiast, and everyone else in between. There are classes for everyone’s interests and an opportunity to connect with like minded folks and enthusiastic educators right on your screen LIVE. Choose from 83 classes spread over 3 days, January 28, 29, 30th, 2022 9:00am to 5:00pm PST from anywhere in the world or from the comfort of your own home.

Class instructors are fellow farmers, industry experts, veterinarians, researchers, and professors from all sectors of agriculture and farming. Take up to 12 classes with a standard registration and enjoy a vast selection of topics like: Baking Sourdough Bread, Water Rights for Rural Landowners, Raising Poultry or Canning 101 to name a few. Take Sheep Dairying 101 one hour and Shitake Mushroom Cultivation the next hour. From cooking, crafting, animal care or machinery repair your class line up can be as eclectic as you like and reflect your learning interests. Check out this year’s exciting class list and register today!
When: Jan 28th, 29th & 30th, 2022 / 9am – 5pm PST
Where: Online
Cost: $10 students / $55 Adult
Register: www.skagit.wsu.edu/countrylivingexpo

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Farming by the Numbers
2022-02-03 19:00 - 21:00
Farming by the Numbers – Learn the basics of farm record keeping, taking sales online, and paying employees from experts and experienced farmers.
Thursday evenings in February 2022 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm to learn the ins and outs of setting up a solid record keeping system as well as other farm number-crunching topics.

February 3 – Farm Bookkeeping Basics
February 10 – Online Sales
February 17 – Paying Employees
February 24 – Financial Statements, Cash Flow, & Loan Readiness

Take one, two or all four! Cost for the four-week series is $15 or $5 for a single class. See the Eventbrite page for more information and to register!

Register:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/farming-by-the-numbers-registration-234941826327?fbclid=IwAR25-5R1fRRatsp_DK8Nn4kZ4MEmg54gYA9-0SBNn9_N3eoPsIdsM89LueI

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