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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Appalachian Highlands Farmers Magazine
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T150000
DTSTAMP:20261009T170054Z
CREATED:20261009T170027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261009T170054Z
UID:11008-1792674000-1792681200@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Small Farm Orientation — Online Option
DESCRIPTION:Start with a farm planning foundation\nVirginia State University Cooperative Extension will offer Small Farm Orientation Oct. 22\, 2026\, from 1 to 3 p.m. Eastern through Microsoft Teams. The program serves people with no farming experience and farmers in their first five years. This calendar entry covers the online option\, which lets participants join without traveling to the in-person meeting in Cambridge\, Maryland. The orientation brings together Ben Dukes\, Malique Middleton and integrated marketing specialist Theresa Nartea. Organizers identify the Small Farm Orientation manual as a resource for the program. \nBring your farm questions\nEarly decisions can shape how a farm develops\, and an orientation offers a place to organize the questions that come with starting out. Before the meeting\, consider writing a short description of what you hope to produce\, the land or facilities you can use and the customers you want to reach. Keep immediate needs separate from ideas that can wait until a later season. For example\, you might need to understand your next planning step before deciding on a major equipment purchase. These suggestions help you prepare for the conversation; they do not represent a promised agenda. Participants can also note which parts of farming feel least familiar and ask how Extension resources might support their learning after the orientation. \nConnect through Microsoft Teams\nInstall Microsoft Teams in advance if your device needs it\, and test your microphone\, speakers and internet connection. Joining early gives you time to resolve access problems before the program begins. Register through the organizer’s event page and follow the instructions in your confirmation for the meeting link. The public listing does not state a registration fee\, so contact the organizer if cost affects your plans. Ben Dukes can answer questions at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu. Ask about obtaining the manual\, any materials you should review beforehand and the format for participant questions. Keep the contact information close at hand on the day of the meeting. Use the online registration option when signing up so the organizer can send the appropriate joining instructions. \nOfficial event information | Register
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/small-farm-orientation-online-option/
LOCATION:Online — Microsoft Teams
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T200000
DTSTAMP:20260921T195545Z
CREATED:20260921T190524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T195545Z
UID:10244-1792692000-1792699200@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Cover Crops Your Way: Session 1
DESCRIPTION:Build a Cover Crop Plan That Fits the Farm\nFarmers and growers looking to improve soil health can join Cover Crops Your Way\, a two-part workshop scheduled for October 22 and November 14 in Morganton. \nThe program begins with a classroom session from 6 to 8 p.m. October 22 at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Burke County Center\, 130 Ammons Drive. Participants will return November 14 from 10 a.m. to noon for a hands-on demonstration at Oak Hill Community Park and Forest\, 820 N.C. 126. Pre-registration is required. \nThe workshop moves from classroom instruction to practical field application. \n\n\nCover Crop Selection\, Soil Testing\, and Establishment\nTopics will include the benefits of cover crops\, different cover crop varieties\, soil testing\, planning\, and establishment. Organizers also plan a cover crop planting demonstration during the field portion of the program. \nThe classroom session will cover different cover crop types and how to use them in production environments. During the November field session\, participants will see how different cover crops are established and gain practical knowledge they can apply to their own operations. \nThat combination may help growers who understand the general benefits of cover crops but need help deciding which species\, planting methods\, or timing make sense for their farms. \nSupporting Healthier Soils\nCover crops can be part of a broader farm-management strategy\, not a one-size-fits-all practice. Producers need to consider their production system\, soil conditions\, planting windows\, and goals when selecting what to grow between cash crops. \nThe workshop aims to help participants develop a cover crop plan rather than simply introducing individual species. \nThe program is being offered through N.C. Cooperative Extension in cooperation with partners including Burke Soil and Water Conservation District\, Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina\, and Empowering Mountain Food Systems. \nFor Appalachian Highlands vegetable producers\, diversified farms\, market gardeners\, and other growers interested in soil health\, the two-session format provides both instruction and an opportunity to see cover-crop establishment in the field. \nParticipants must register in advance. Burke County Extension can also provide additional information about the sessions. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/cover-crops-your-way-1/
LOCATION:N.C. Cooperative Extension Burke County Center\, 130 Ammons Drive\, Morganton\, NC\, 28655\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Workshops & Seminars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/pexels-n-voitkevich-4453779-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T200000
DTSTAMP:20260927T210321Z
CREATED:20260927T210321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T210321Z
UID:10692-1792692000-1792699200@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Cover Crops Your Way: Classroom Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Start With the Classroom Session\nCover Crops Your Way begins October 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Burke County Center in Morganton. The two-part program is designed to help growers understand how different cover crops can fit their production systems and soil-management goals. \nThe classroom session will cover the benefits of cover crops\, different cover-crop varieties\, soil testing\, equipment and development of a practical cover-crop plan. \nPart One of a Two-Part Workshop\nThe October 22 session prepares participants for a hands-on field demonstration scheduled for November 14 at Oak Hill Community Park & Forest. The field session will focus on establishing different cover crops in the field. \nRegistration Required\nThe program is hosted by Burke County N.C. Cooperative Extension with partners including Burke Soil and Water Conservation District\, Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina and Empowering Mountain Food Systems. Pre-registration is required. Participants can register through the official event listing or contact Burke County Extension at 828-764-9480.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/cover-crops-your-way-classroom-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T200000
DTSTAMP:20260927T210322Z
CREATED:20260927T210322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T210322Z
UID:10694-1792692000-1792699200@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Cover Crops Your Way: Classroom Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Start With the Classroom Session\nCover Crops Your Way begins October 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Burke County Center in Morganton. The two-part program is designed to help growers understand how different cover crops can fit their production systems and soil-management goals. \nThe classroom session will cover the benefits of cover crops\, different cover-crop varieties\, soil testing\, equipment and development of a practical cover-crop plan. \nPart One of a Two-Part Workshop\nThe October 22 session prepares participants for a hands-on field demonstration scheduled for November 14 at Oak Hill Community Park & Forest. The field session will focus on establishing different cover crops in the field. \nRegistration Required\nThe program is hosted by Burke County N.C. Cooperative Extension with partners including Burke Soil and Water Conservation District\, Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina and Empowering Mountain Food Systems. Pre-registration is required. Participants can register through the official event listing or contact Burke County Extension at 828-764-9480.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/cover-crops-your-way-classroom-workshop-2/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T200000
DTSTAMP:20261014T222218Z
CREATED:20261014T222050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T222218Z
UID:11110-1792692000-1792699200@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Cover Crops Your Way: Classroom Session
DESCRIPTION:A two-part approach to cover crops\nCover Crops Your Way will hold its classroom session Oct 22\, 2026 in Morganton\, North Carolina. The classroom meeting will examine cover crop species\, combinations of species and how to fit them into a production setting. Organizers connect the subject with goals such as building organic matter\, reducing erosion\, suppressing weeds and improving nutrient availability. The session gives participants a place to consider the reasoning behind a cover crop choice before attending the separate field demonstration. The workshop series is free\, and advance registration is required. This entry covers one meeting rather than both dates; reserve the other session separately on your calendar. \nPrepare a question about your land\nBefore attending\, consider the goal that matters most in the field you have in mind. You might want to understand a seasonal opening in your rotation\, a soil management concern or the equipment you can use. Write down the crops already grown there and the decision you hope the program will help you investigate. These are optional preparation suggestions\, not a required farm plan or a promise of an individual prescription. Keep the question specific enough to discuss\, and ask which local resources can help you evaluate it afterward. The series announcement describes educational opportunities\, rather than guaranteeing a particular soil or production result for each participant. Use what you learn as a starting point for a plan suited to your own conditions. \nRegister and confirm the meeting site\nThe Oct. 22 classroom session runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at Burke County Extension Center\, 130 Ammons Drive. The Nov. 14 field session runs from 10 a.m. to noon at Oak Hill Community Park and Forest\, 820 NC-126. All times are Eastern. Register through the linked Eventbrite page or call 828-764-9480 for assistance. Check your confirmation for attendance arrangements and any supplies the organizer recommends. For the outdoor meeting\, ask about weather plans\, walking conditions and accessibility before traveling. Do not assume both parts use the same address. Review the current announcement before each date\, and keep a way to record the equipment\, resource names and follow-up contacts that are most useful to your farm. \nOfficial event information | Registration
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/cover-crops-your-way-classroom-session/
LOCATION:Burke County Extension Center\, 130 Ammons Drive\, Morganton\, NC\, 28655
CATEGORIES:Education,Educational
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261023T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261025T120000
DTSTAMP:20260913T154134Z
CREATED:20260913T154134Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260913T154134Z
UID:9701-1792746000-1792929600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Gather to Grow Forest Farming Conference
DESCRIPTION:Three-day Appalachian Forest Farmer Coalition conference on forest farming of botanicals\, mushrooms\, syrups and other non-timber forest products. Conference scholarships remain available for some beginning farmers from Appalachian counties.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/gather-to-grow-forest-farming-conference/
LOCATION:The Inn at Virginia Tech & Skelton Conference Center\, 901 Prices Fork Road\, Blacksburg\, VA\, 24061\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education
ORGANIZER;CN="Appalachian Forest Farmer Coalition":MAILTO:info@appalachianforestfarmers.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261024T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261024T160000
DTSTAMP:20261009T170054Z
CREATED:20261009T170028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261009T170054Z
UID:11009-1792846800-1792857600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:QuickBooks and Farm Financial Management Workshop — Abingdon
DESCRIPTION:Work on your farm’s financial systems\nVirginia State University Cooperative Extension will offer a QuickBooks and Farm Financial Management Workshop Oct. 24\, 2026\, from 1 to 4 p.m. in Abingdon\, Virginia. The session takes place at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center\, 1 Partnership Circle\, Abingdon\, VA 24210. Participants must bring a laptop. Organizers offer one year of QuickBooks access at no charge and describe the workshop as an opportunity for one-on-one technical assistance. The public listing does not state a workshop registration fee. \nConnect records with farm decisions\nThe announced support addresses financial stability\, loss prevention\, risk management and USDA programs. It also points farmers toward legal\, tax and farm business services. Those connections can help participants identify where they need further assistance after the workshop. To prepare\, consider writing down the bookkeeping task that gives you the most trouble and the reports you would like to understand better. You might also outline the records you already keep and the parts of your system you want to improve. These are optional preparation suggestions\, rather than a published requirement to bring financial documents. Ask the coordinator what information\, accounts or software setup you should have available on your laptop before arriving. That conversation can help you use the technical assistance time efficiently. \nRegister and ask about assistance\nJimmy Maclin is the contact for workshop questions at 804-731-6595 or jlmaclin@vsu.edu. Mandy Fletcher and Wayne Browning are also involved in coordination. The announcement offers travel assistance; contact the organizer to learn the conditions and how to request it. Do not assume that every travel expense qualifies or that assistance is automatic. Register through the event’s linked form and review the confirmation for instructions. Charge your laptop\, bring its power adapter and check that you can access the accounts you expect to use. If you need accommodations or help with the software offer\, raise those questions before the workshop. Keep the official event link available to check for updates. After attending\, choose a manageable next step for your farm records and follow up with the relevant service provider when you need more specialized guidance. \nOfficial event information | Register
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/quickbooks-and-farm-financial-management-workshop-abingdon/
LOCATION:Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center\, 1 Partnership Circle\, Abingdon\, VA\, 24210
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261025T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261025T090000
DTSTAMP:20260913T193209Z
CREATED:20260913T193209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260913T193209Z
UID:9806-1792918800-1792918800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Gather to Grow Forest Farming Conference
DESCRIPTION:Gather to Grow Forest Farming Conference is scheduled for Oct. 23-Oct. 25\, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.. Appalachian Forest Farmer Coalition is organizing the opportunity. The event is scheduled at The Inn at Virginia Tech & Skelton Conference Center. The listed cost is $299. \nThe current event listing describes the program this way: Three-day Appalachian Forest Farmer Coalition conference on forest farming of botanicals\, mushrooms\, syrups and other non-timber forest products. Conference scholarships remain available for some beginning farmers from Appalachian counties. \nForest farming creates agricultural opportunities under a managed woodland canopy. Appalachian producers may work with botanicals\, mushrooms\, syrups and other non-timber forest products\, but success depends on site conditions\, production knowledge\, markets and long-term stewardship. A regional conference can connect growers with experienced producers\, researchers and buyers while showing the range of enterprises possible in Appalachian forests. \nConferences can be especially useful for people who want both education and networking. In addition to formal sessions\, participants often gain value from comparing experiences with other producers\, meeting organizations that serve farmers and identifying follow-up contacts for technical or business questions. \nFor Appalachian Highlands readers\, the event may be especially useful when the subject connects directly to farm profitability\, conservation\, land access\, production risk or the development of a stronger agricultural business. AHF includes it in the Education Calendar so readers can track both learning opportunities and important application deadlines in one place. \nBefore the event or deadline arrives\, readers may want to save the official page\, confirm the date and time\, and note any registration\, eligibility or documentation requirements. Agricultural programs can change as organizers update schedules or funding guidance\, so checking the source again shortly before participating is a good final step. \nAnyone planning to attend should check the organizer’s page before the event for registration instructions\, schedule changes\, participation requirements and any materials to bring. Space may be limited for some programs\, and online events may require advance registration to receive the connection link. For the latest details\, visit https://www.appalachianforestfarmers.org/gather-to-grow
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/gather-to-grow-forest-farming-conference-2/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261025T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261025T140000
DTSTAMP:20260926T192720Z
CREATED:20260926T192720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T192720Z
UID:10570-1792936800-1792936800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Fall in the Foothills Field Day
DESCRIPTION:East Tennessee Field Day Planned for October 25\nThe 2026 Fall in the Foothills Field Day will take place October 25 at 2 p.m. at the Little River Dairy Unit of the East Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Walland\, Tennessee. \nThe University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture lists the program as a training\, workshop and outreach event focused on agriculture. The event is hosted through the East Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center\, UT AgResearch and UT Extension. \nMore Program Details Are Coming\nUT has not yet posted a detailed 2026 agenda. The official calendar says additional information will be released as the event approaches. Farmers and other attendees should check the official event page before traveling for any schedule updates or registration information. \nThe Little River Dairy Unit is located at 3229 Ellejoy Road in Walland. The event offers a regional opportunity for East Tennessee producers and other Appalachian Highlands farmers to connect with university research and Extension outreach.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/fall-in-the-foothills-field-day/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261027T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261027T160000
DTSTAMP:20261025T205059Z
CREATED:20261025T205059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261025T205059Z
UID:11225-1793111400-1793116800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Burke County Master Gardener Class Information Meeting and Q&A
DESCRIPTION:Learn about the volunteer program\nBurke County Extension will hold a Master Gardener class information meeting and question-and-answer session Oct. 27\, 2026\, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Eastern. The location is 130 Ammons Drive in Morganton. The meeting will explain the program’s mission\, class details and volunteer responsibilities. Current Master Gardeners will share their experiences and answer questions. \nConsider both learning and service\nThe separate class announcement says training is planned for January through April 2027\, with applications opening in early November. This information meeting is a chance to ask about the local program before applying. Suggested preparation includes considering why you want to participate and how community education could fit your time and interests. An interest in gardening is useful context\, but ask the coordinator what the actual volunteer role involves. Attendance at an information session does not establish acceptance. \nQuestions to bring\nAsk how the application process works\, what training participation requires and how new volunteers receive support. If you have a work\, travel or accessibility constraint\, describe it clearly and ask about the program’s current arrangements. You may also want to ask how volunteers find approved references and handle questions beyond their experience. These are suggested discussion prompts\, not an additional agenda or a prediction of interview questions. Keep the response tied to Burke County rather than assuming every county uses the same policies. \nCheck the next milestone\nContact Tanner Collier at 828-764-9480 or tanner_collier@ncsu.edu about current participation details. Confirm any registration requirement and arrival instructions before traveling. No fee has been verified for this meeting. Keep its date separate from the later application opening and the start of training. Early November remains an approximate application period rather than a confirmed Nov. 1 opening. Use the official event page for meeting updates and the current class announcement for subsequent steps. Record the contact information you receive so you can resolve questions after reviewing the program materials. \nOfficial information and current participation details
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/burke-county-master-gardener-class-information-meeting-and-qa/
LOCATION:Burke County Extension Center\, 130 Ammons Drive\, Morganton\, NC\, 28655
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261028T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261028T153000
DTSTAMP:20261009T170054Z
CREATED:20261009T170028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261009T170054Z
UID:11010-1793172600-1793201400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:2026 Kentucky Grazing Conference — Elizabethtown
DESCRIPTION:Small ruminants take center stage\nThe 2026 Kentucky Grazing Conference will meet Oct. 28 in Elizabethtown\, Kentucky\, with a focus on sheep and goats. The theme\, Rooted in Resilience: Grazing Small Ruminants in Kentucky\, brings attention to the management decisions behind pasture-based small ruminant operations. The day runs from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern\, with arrival and registration from 7:30 to 8 a.m. General admission costs $45\, and the student rate is $15. Registration includes lunch and a trade show. \nExplore grazing approaches\nThe announced program addresses regenerative practices\, nutrition\, custom grazing and mixed-species grazing. The University of Kentucky Master Grazer Educational Program and partners are organizing the conference. Choose this Elizabethtown date if it fits your travel plans; Winchester hosts a separate conference the following day. Farmers can prepare by identifying a grazing question tied to their own animals and acreage. For example\, consider where your current pasture plan works well and where you need more information before changing it. Keep those observations brief enough to discuss during a break. These optional preparation ideas do not add sessions to the published program. A conference can also help you compare the questions other producers are asking and identify resources for follow-up. Take notes on an approach you want to investigate further rather than trying to make every management decision during one day. \nRegister for the correct location\nThis listing is for Hardin County Extension Office\, 111 Opportunity Way\, Elizabethtown\, KY 42701. The conference has separate dates and locations\, so select the appropriate option when registering through Eventbrite. Contact Katy Trimble at 270-625-5366 or katy.trimble@uky.edu with questions about the program\, student pricing or attendance arrangements. Check your confirmation for the local venue and date before traveling. Allow time for registration before the educational program gets underway\, and review the official event page for updates. If you need dietary or accessibility arrangements\, raise those questions in advance. After the conference\, review your notes with the people who help make grazing decisions on your farm and choose a realistic next step. Keep the organizer’s contact information available for questions that require additional local guidance. \nOfficial event information | Register
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/2026-kentucky-grazing-conference-elizabethtown/
LOCATION:Hardin County Extension Office\, 111 Opportunity Way\, Elizabethtown\, KY\, 42701
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261029T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261029T153000
DTSTAMP:20261009T170054Z
CREATED:20261009T170028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261009T170054Z
UID:11011-1793259000-1793287800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:2026 Kentucky Grazing Conference — Winchester
DESCRIPTION:Small ruminants take center stage\nThe 2026 Kentucky Grazing Conference will meet Oct. 29 in Winchester\, Kentucky\, with a focus on sheep and goats. The theme\, Rooted in Resilience: Grazing Small Ruminants in Kentucky\, brings attention to the management decisions behind pasture-based small ruminant operations. The day runs from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern\, with arrival and registration from 7:30 to 8 a.m. General admission costs $45\, and the student rate is $15. Registration includes lunch and a trade show. \nExplore grazing approaches\nThe announced program addresses regenerative practices\, nutrition\, custom grazing and mixed-species grazing. The University of Kentucky Master Grazer Educational Program and partners are organizing the conference. The Winchester program also includes business meetings for the Kentucky Sheep and Wool Producers Association and Kentucky Goat Producers Association. Farmers can prepare by identifying a grazing question tied to their own animals and acreage. For example\, consider where your current pasture plan works well and where you need more information before changing it. Keep those observations brief enough to discuss during a break. These optional preparation ideas do not add sessions to the published program. A conference can also help you compare the questions other producers are asking and identify resources for follow-up. Take notes on an approach you want to investigate further rather than trying to make every management decision during one day. \nRegister for the correct location\nThis listing is for Clark County Extension Office\, 1400 Fortune Drive\, Winchester\, KY 40391. The conference has separate dates and locations\, so select the appropriate option when registering through Eventbrite. Contact Katy Trimble at 270-625-5366 or katy.trimble@uky.edu with questions about the program\, student pricing or attendance arrangements. Check your confirmation for the local venue and date before traveling. Allow time for registration before the educational program gets underway\, and review the official event page for updates. If you need dietary or accessibility arrangements\, raise those questions in advance. After the conference\, review your notes with the people who help make grazing decisions on your farm and choose a realistic next step. Keep the organizer’s contact information available for questions that require additional local guidance. \nOfficial event information | Register
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/2026-kentucky-grazing-conference-winchester/
LOCATION:Clark County Extension Office\, 1400 Fortune Drive\, Winchester\, KY\, 40391
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261029T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261029T110000
DTSTAMP:20260926T192720Z
CREATED:20260926T192720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T192720Z
UID:10571-1793268000-1793271600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Fall Crop Protection Webinar #2: Extension Entomology Update
DESCRIPTION:Fall Crop Protection Webinar #2\nThe Extension Entomology Update session of the University of Kentucky Fall Crop Protection Webinar Series will be held online from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern. Felipe Batista\, a University of Kentucky entomology postdoctoral scholar will present the session. \nThe University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture\, Food and Environment and the Grain Crops Pest Management Group are presenting the 2026 Fall Crop Protection Webinar Series. The five-part online series focuses on agronomic crops and integrated pest management and is open to farmers\, Extension agents\, crop consultants\, industry professionals and others. \nEach session runs from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern. Participants must register online and select the webinar dates they want to attend. Certified crop advisers can earn one Integrated Pest Management continuing-education unit for each webinar\, for a possible five CEUs across the full series. Kentucky pesticide applicator credits are pending. \nPart of a Five-Week Series\nThe series runs on consecutive Thursdays from October 22 through November 19. Farmers can register for individual sessions or multiple dates through the official University of Kentucky event page.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/fall-crop-protection-webinar-2-extension-entomology-update/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261030
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261031
DTSTAMP:20261025T205059Z
CREATED:20261025T205059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261025T205059Z
UID:11224-1793318400-1793404799@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Virginia AFID Infrastructure Grants — Application Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Application deadline is Oct. 30\nVirginia’s fall 2026 AFID Infrastructure Grant applications are due Oct. 30 by 5 p.m. Virginia local time. The program supports reimbursable capital projects\, including food hubs\, farmers markets\, commercial kitchens and agricultural processing or packaging facilities. Applications must come from an eligible Virginia political subdivision. Farmers and community organizations should work with their locality on a proposed project. \nUnderstand the funding route\nThe maximum award is $50\,000. The announcement calls for an equal cash match\, with reduced matching requirements available for economically distressed localities. Review the current guidelines with the intended applicant before assuming a project or expense qualifies. This calendar entry marks a funding deadline\, not an educational meeting or an approval to start spending. Use the program’s actual application and grant terms for decisions about project costs and reimbursement. \nSuggested project preparation\nPrepare a concise description of the capacity the project would add\, the producers it would serve and the problem it would address. Identify the local-government partner and the information that partner needs to evaluate the idea. A preliminary budget can distinguish proposed capital costs\, available matching funds and unanswered questions. These are preparation suggestions rather than a grant-writing formula or a guarantee of selection. Ask the program staff which costs and documentation require clarification before making a financial commitment. \nCoordinate submission early\nUse the official page for guidelines\, forms\, the budget document and the recorded informational webinar. Joyce Blankenship is the program contact at 804-786-1906 or joyce.blankenship@vdacs.virginia.gov. Allow time for the eligible applicant’s review and submission process before the deadline. Keep a copy of the final materials and any receipt. This date-only calendar marker does not extend the 5 p.m. cutoff. Do not assume reimbursement is available merely because a project is described in an application or a purchase has been made. Confirm current requirements directly with the program. \nOfficial information and current participation details
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/virginia-afid-infrastructure-grants-application-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261103T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261103T210000
DTSTAMP:20260923T220501Z
CREATED:20260913T154134Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T220501Z
UID:9702-1793728800-1793739600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Winter Business Intensive: Infrastructure and Natural Resources
DESCRIPTION:Plan the Physical Farm Around the Business\nWinter Business Intensive: Infrastructure and Natural Resources is the third session in Appalachian RC&D’s 2026-27 Winter Business Intensive Field School. The November 3 class runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Langston Centre in Johnson City\, Tennessee. \nThe session focuses on the physical systems that make a farm work and the natural resources that support production. Buildings\, fencing\, water\, roads\, equipment\, soils\, pasture\, and other resources can determine what an operation can realistically produce and how efficiently it can grow. \n\n\nMatch Investments to Real Farm Needs\nParticipants can consider buildings\, fencing\, water systems\, equipment\, roads\, utilities\, and other infrastructure while also examining soil\, water\, forests\, pasture\, and related natural resources. \nThe goal is not simply to list improvements. Farmers can use the planning process to ask whether a proposed investment actually supports their production system\, markets\, and long-term business goals. A costly building or piece of equipment can become a burden if it does not solve a real production or labor problem. \nPlanning infrastructure before purchasing can help producers prioritize investments and understand how individual improvements fit into the larger farm system. \nPut Conservation Into the Business Plan\nNatural-resource decisions also have business consequences. Soil condition\, water availability\, erosion\, pasture quality\, and woodland management can influence productivity\, costs\, and resilience. \nFarmers can use the session to think about conservation and resource stewardship as part of business planning\, not as a separate activity. In some cases\, conservation practices can also connect producers with technical assistance or cost-share programs that make improvements more affordable. \nPrepare for Later Financial Decisions\nThis session builds on the earlier work of defining farm goals and assessing available resources. It also prepares participants for later discussions about markets\, financial management\, and production planning because infrastructure needs often shape both costs and capacity. \nAppalachian RC&D’s Winter Business Intensive is an eight-session series for beginning and experienced farmers. Completion can also qualify participants for Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program education credit toward eligible Producer Diversification requirements. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational and grant opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/winter-business-intensive-infrastructure-and-natural-resources/
LOCATION:Langston Centre\, 315 Elm St\, Johnson City\, TN\, 37601\, United States
CATEGORIES:Courses & Training,Education,Workshops & Seminars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Infrustructure-Natural-Resources1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261104T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261104T150000
DTSTAMP:20261025T205101Z
CREATED:20261025T205101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261025T205101Z
UID:11227-1793782800-1793804400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Farmer Wellness Day — Madison County
DESCRIPTION:A day for the farming community\nMadison County Cooperative Extension lists Farmer Wellness Day for Nov. 4\, 2026\, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Eastern at 258 Carolina Lane in Marshall. Lunch is provided\, and the official page links to online registration. The announcement does not yet provide a detailed agenda or identify individual speakers. \nMake time to participate\nSuggested preparation includes planning how essential farm work will be covered while you attend. Consider transportation\, the time away from the operation and any practical question that needs an answer before registering. Ask the organizer about the day’s format if that information would affect your decision. These are attendance-planning suggestions\, not a statement that the event provides private counseling\, health screenings or a particular treatment. Use the actual program information as it becomes available rather than assigning services to a broad wellness title. \nQuestions for the organizer\nYou may want to ask what kinds of learning activities are planned\, whether any part of the day requires advance preparation and how the lunch arrangements work. If you need an accommodation or have a dietary question\, discuss it directly with the office. Do not assume that an unpublished agenda includes a particular activity or that participants must share personal experiences in a group. Keep any private health questions for an appropriate professional setting. This listing describes a community education opportunity and does not offer medical advice or make claims about outcomes. \nConfirm registration and arrival\nContact Madison County Extension at 828-649-2411 if the registration link\, meeting arrangements or current program details are unclear. No ticket price has been verified\, so the calendar does not describe attendance as free. Retain any confirmation you receive and check for updated instructions before traveling. If you hope to follow up on a subject after the event\, ask which public resources the organizer recommends and record the contact information it chooses to share. A specific question and a manageable next step can help you make use of the information actually presented. \nOfficial information and current participation details
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/farmer-wellness-day-madison-county/
LOCATION:Madison County Extension Center\, 258 Carolina Lane\, Marshall\, NC\, 28753
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261105T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T160000
DTSTAMP:20260915T215705Z
CREATED:20260913T154134Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T215705Z
UID:9703-1793865600-1793980800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Veterans in Agriculture Regional Conference
DESCRIPTION:The Veterans in Agriculture Regional Conference will bring veteran farmers and their families together for two days of agricultural education\, hands-on learning\, farm tours\, and networking in Nashville\, Tennessee. \nThe conference will be held Nov. 5-6\, 2026\, at the Ed Jones Auditorium at the Ellington Agricultural Center\, 416 Hogan Road\, Nashville. The event is part of the Tennessee AgVets Opportunities on FarmLand\, or TN AgVOLs\, program and is being presented through a partnership that includes Appalachian Resource Conservation & Development Council\, the University of Tennessee Center of Farm Management\, Tennessee AgrAbility\, UT Extension\, and other agricultural organizations. \n\n\nAgricultural Training and Hands-On Learning\nThe Veterans in Agriculture Regional Conference connects veterans involved in agriculture with other farmers\, agricultural professionals\, and organizations that provide training and assistance. \nThe two-day program will include farm tours\, workshops\, demonstrations\, and networking opportunities. Participants will learn from agricultural professionals while meeting other veterans who are starting\, operating\, or expanding farms and agricultural businesses. \nThe conference is part of a broader TN AgVOLs effort to help veterans and transitioning service members enter agriculture. The program connects participants with technical assistance\, education\, hands-on training\, and other resources that can help them develop new agricultural businesses or strengthen existing operations. \nResources for Veteran Farmers\nTN AgVOLs works with agricultural organizations across Tennessee to connect veteran farmers with educational opportunities\, internships\, farm mentors\, and other resources. \nThe program also provides information about agricultural training scholarships. TN AgVOLs currently reimburses up to $250 for veterans who complete approved agriculture-related educational programs. Conference organizers also indicate that scholarship assistance is available for the Veterans in Agriculture Regional Conference. \nBeyond formal educational sessions\, the conference will give participants time to build connections with other veteran farmers and agricultural professionals. Those relationships can help beginning farmers identify resources\, learn from established producers\, and become more involved in Tennessee’s agricultural community. \nMeals Included During the Conference\nRegistration includes a light breakfast and lunch each day. According to event organizers\, the conference is open to veterans and their families. \nThe Veterans in Agriculture Regional Conference is the first annual conference organized through the TN AgVOLs initiative. Veterans interested in farming\, developing an agricultural business\, or expanding an existing operation can use the event to explore educational resources\, meet agricultural professionals\, and connect with other veteran farmers from across the region. \nDates: Nov. 5-6\, 2026\nLocation: Ed Jones Auditorium\, Ellington Agricultural Center\nAddress: 416 Hogan Road\, Nashville\, TN 37220\nFormat: In-person conference\nActivities: Farm tours\, workshops\, demonstrations\, and networking\nMeals: Light breakfast and lunch provided both days\nEligibility: Veterans and their families \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/veterans-in-agriculture-conference/
LOCATION:Ed Jones Auditorium\, Ellington Agricultural Center\, 416 Hogan Rd\, Nashville\, TN\, 37220\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Workshops & Seminars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-15-2026-05_39_44-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261105T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261105T110000
DTSTAMP:20260926T192720Z
CREATED:20260926T192720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T192720Z
UID:10572-1793872800-1793876400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Fall Crop Protection Webinar #3: Extension Plant Pathology Update
DESCRIPTION:Fall Crop Protection Webinar #3\nThe Extension Plant Pathology Update session of the University of Kentucky Fall Crop Protection Webinar Series will be held online from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern. Kiersten Wise\, University of Kentucky Extension plant pathologist will present the session. \nThe University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture\, Food and Environment and the Grain Crops Pest Management Group are presenting the 2026 Fall Crop Protection Webinar Series. The five-part online series focuses on agronomic crops and integrated pest management and is open to farmers\, Extension agents\, crop consultants\, industry professionals and others. \nEach session runs from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern. Participants must register online and select the webinar dates they want to attend. Certified crop advisers can earn one Integrated Pest Management continuing-education unit for each webinar\, for a possible five CEUs across the full series. Kentucky pesticide applicator credits are pending. \nPart of a Five-Week Series\nThe series runs on consecutive Thursdays from October 22 through November 19. Farmers can register for individual sessions or multiple dates through the official University of Kentucky event page.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/fall-crop-protection-webinar-3-extension-plant-pathology-update/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T133000
DTSTAMP:20261009T170054Z
CREATED:20261009T170028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261009T170054Z
UID:11012-1793952000-1793971800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Tennessee Forage & Grassland Council Annual Meeting
DESCRIPTION:A morning focused on forage management\nThe Tennessee Forage & Grassland Council will hold its annual meeting Nov. 6\, 2026\, at the Clyde M. York 4-H Center in Crossville\, Tennessee. Registration costs $50. The published meeting program runs from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Central\, with registration\, coffee and doughnuts at the start. Farmers traveling from the Eastern time zone should account for the difference: the meeting begins at 9 a.m. Eastern. The center is at 62 4-H Center Drive\, Crossville\, TN 38572. \nPasture challenges and producer experience\nThe agenda covers bale grazing\, foxtail management in pastures\, recovery from Hurricane Helene flooding and Johnsongrass management. A forage producer panel adds an opportunity to hear from farmers\, while a trade show gives participants time to make contacts between sessions. Lunch and an NRCS update appear near the end of the program. Together\, those topics bring pasture management decisions into one morning. Farmers can prepare by identifying the forage issue that most affects their operation and considering how it connects to grazing schedules\, winter feeding or recovery work. A brief set of farm observations will be more useful than a long list of general questions. These preparation ideas are optional and do not add topics to the published agenda. \nPlan the visit\nBefore registering\, review the official meeting information and the ticket page for current arrangements. Contact Malerie Fancher at 865-974-7324 or mfanche4@utk.edu with questions. If you need to discuss a particular pasture weed\, ask whether photographs or written observations would be useful for a conversation during breaks. Consider which points you want to take home from the producer panel and how you will record them. A practical follow-up plan might include reviewing one management option with your Extension contact after the meeting. Allow time to arrive for registration rather than planning around the first presentation alone. The local schedule uses Central time throughout; preserve that time zone when adding the meeting to your own calendar or arranging travel with another attendee. \nOfficial event information | Register
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/tennessee-forage-grassland-council-annual-meeting/
LOCATION:Clyde M. York 4-H Center\, 62 4-H Center Drive\, Crossville\, TN\, 38572
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T160000
DTSTAMP:20261025T205046Z
CREATED:20261025T205046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261025T205046Z
UID:11223-1793973600-1793980800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Ginseng Production Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Learn about wild-simulated ginseng\nWilkes County Extension will hold a free Ginseng Production Workshop Nov. 6\, 2026\, from 2 to 4 p.m. Eastern at the Wilkes County Agricultural Center\, 416 Executive Drive in Wilkesboro. Jim Hamilton will provide instruction and field demonstrations. The announced subjects include forest sites\, fertility\, planting\, production problems and marketing. Advance registration is required\, and space is limited. \nConsider a long production timeline\nThe announcement describes an eight- to 10-year period for roots to reach the size preferred by major export markets. That timeline makes the early evaluation of a proposed planting particularly important. Suggested preparation includes identifying the decision you need to make about your woodland and the information a local adviser would need to assess it. A course can help you ask better questions without establishing that a particular property or business plan is suitable. \nQuestions to investigate\nWrite down what you know about the proposed site and what remains uncertain. Ask how to evaluate conditions\, find dependable planting information and document a small trial if an adviser recommends one. Include questions about labor\, protecting the planting and the records a future business would need. These are preparation suggestions\, not additional announced curriculum. Do not treat a quoted market price or another grower’s experience as a guaranteed future return. Ask the appropriate agencies about current requirements before planning harvest or sales. \nRegister and check optional purchases\nBooks and seed will be available for purchase\, with limited quantities offered first-come\, first-served. Free attendance does not mean those materials are included. Contact Matthew Clay at 336-651-7333 or mhclay@ncsu.edu about registration\, accessibility and any instructions for the field component. Do not bring samples or assume a supply requirement unless the organizer requests it. Keep notes on resources you want to consult afterward. Use the official announcement and registration page for current availability and schedule changes before traveling to Wilkesboro. If you later research a small trial\, record the question it is intended to answer before selecting material or committing space. \nOfficial information and current participation details
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/ginseng-production-workshop/
LOCATION:Wilkes County Agricultural Center\, 416 Executive Drive\, Wilkesboro\, NC\, 28697
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T000000
DTSTAMP:20260927T214809Z
CREATED:20260913T154135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T214809Z
UID:9704-1794182400-1794182400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:WNC AgOptions Application Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Final application deadline for 2027 WNC AgOptions farm grants. The application is due Nov. 9 at 11:59 p.m.; farmers must have completed the required Intent to Apply step by Oct. 9.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/wnc-agoptions-application-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Education,Grants & Deadlines
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T183000
DTSTAMP:20260913T193212Z
CREATED:20260913T154139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260913T193212Z
UID:9706-1794249000-1794249000@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Sullivan County Beef Producer Meeting: Meats
DESCRIPTION:Sullivan County Beef Producer Meeting: Meats is scheduled for Nov. 9\, beginning at 6:30 p.m.. UT-TSU Extension Sullivan County is organizing the opportunity. The event is scheduled at Sullivan County Extension Office. The event is listed as free. \nThe current event listing describes the program this way: Free monthly beef producer education meeting. Dr. Kelly Vierck of the University of Tennessee will discuss meats. Attendance counts as one point toward Tennessee Master Beef certification. \nLivestock education is most useful when producers can connect management decisions with animal health\, forage\, reproduction and farm economics. Regional Extension programs give farmers a chance to compare practices\, hear current recommendations and ask questions that are specific to the conditions they manage at home. \nThe event may be useful to both newer and experienced producers because it provides a focused opportunity to step away from day-to-day farm work and concentrate on one subject. Participants can compare the information presented with the needs\, limitations and goals of their own operations. \nFor Appalachian Highlands readers\, the event may be especially useful when the subject connects directly to farm profitability\, conservation\, land access\, production risk or the development of a stronger agricultural business. AHF includes it in the Education Calendar so readers can track both learning opportunities and important application deadlines in one place. \nBefore the event or deadline arrives\, readers may want to save the official page\, confirm the date and time\, and note any registration\, eligibility or documentation requirements. Agricultural programs can change as organizers update schedules or funding guidance\, so checking the source again shortly before participating is a good final step. \nFor current registration information\, eligibility requirements and any schedule updates\, visit the official event page: https://sullivan.tennessee.edu/monthly-beef-producer-meetings/ AHF readers may also want to check related Extension or organizer resources for follow-up training\, technical assistance or future sessions connected with the same subject.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/sullivan-county-beef-producer-meeting-meats/
LOCATION:Sullivan County Extension Office\, 140 Spurgeon Lane\, Blountville\, TN\, 37617-4510\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T183000
DTSTAMP:20260928T165130Z
CREATED:20260928T165124Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T165130Z
UID:10749-1794249000-1794249000@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:NC AgVentures Farm Grant Applicant Webinar — November 9
DESCRIPTION:AgVentures November Webinar Explains the Farm Grant Process\nAgVentures November Webinar gives North Carolina farmers and eligible community organizations an opportunity to learn how the NC AgVentures Farm Grant Program works before the 2026 application deadline. This online session begins November 9 and will cover the same core information offered in the program’s other applicant webinars. \nNC AgVentures provides competitive grants of up to $10\,000 for agricultural projects intended to increase farm profits. The program is administered through NC State Extension with funding from the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission. \nWhat Applicants Should Know\nNC AgVentures says eligible farm applicants must be North Carolina residents with an established independent farm operation in the state. The farm must have generated revenue for at least one year. Local nonprofit community organizations may also qualify for projects that support agricultural profitability. \nThe 2026 grant cycle will accept no more than 200 applications\, so interested applicants should prepare early. Farmers are also expected to work with their local Extension agent during the proposal process. \nApplications Open October 15\nThe application portal opens October 15. The final deadline is December 15 at 6 p.m.\, but the portal will close earlier if the program receives 200 applications. The applicant webinar is intended to explain the process\, highlight updates and give prospective applicants a chance to ask questions before submitting.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/nc-agventures-farm-grant-applicant-webinar-november-9/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T200000
DTSTAMP:20260927T215209Z
CREATED:20260913T154135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T215209Z
UID:9705-1794249000-1794254400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:NC AgVentures Grant Application Webinar
DESCRIPTION:NC AgVentures will hold its final Farm Grant Application Overview Webinar on November 9 at 6:30 p.m.\, offering farmers one more chance to learn about eligibility\, project requirements\, and the application process. \nLearn How to Prepare an NC AgVentures Application\nNorth Carolina farmers considering an NC AgVentures Farm Grant can learn about the program and application process during the NC AgVentures Grant Application Webinar on November 9 at 6:30 p.m. \nThe online workshop is designed for prospective applicants who want to better understand the grant program before submitting a proposal. NC AgVentures is an NC State Extension program funded by the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission. The program provides competitive cost-share grants to eligible family farms and qualifying community organizations for projects intended to increase farm income and strengthen agricultural businesses. \nThe November 9 session is one of three applicant webinars offered during the 2026 grant cycle. NC AgVentures says each webinar will cover the same information\, so farmers can choose the session that best fits their schedules. \n\n\nGrants of Up to $10\,000 Available\nNC AgVentures offers awards of up to $10\,000. Eligible farm applicants must operate an established\, independent North Carolina farm that has generated revenue for at least one year. \nFarm projects may include efforts to add new crops\, increase efficiency\, expand production\, develop new markets\, or add infrastructure that can improve profitability. Previous projects have included greenhouses\, farm stores\, packing facilities\, labor-saving equipment\, and equipment for value-added production. Applicants cannot use grant funds to purchase land or animals. \nRecipients must contribute at least 15% of the total project cost in cash. For example\, a farmer requesting grant funding must develop a total project budget large enough to include that required contribution. \nThe program also offers Community Grants for nonprofit organizations\, cooperatives\, and government organizations whose projects directly benefit at least three farms. \nExtension Agents Play a Role\nFarm applicants must work with an N.C. Cooperative Extension agent on their proposals. \nNC AgVentures encourages applicants to contact their Extension agent early and requires applicants to contact an agent by December 1 to schedule time to discuss the proposed project and review the application. Farmers who do not already work closely with an Extension agent can contact their local Extension office for assistance. \nThe webinar can help applicants understand what information they should begin gathering before that consultation. \nThe application includes sections covering farm and contact information\, the proposed project\, project viability\, and the budget. Reviewers consider factors such as whether the project can increase farm income\, improve efficiency\, create or maintain employment\, introduce a new opportunity\, and become financially sustainable. \nApplication Window Opens October 15\nNC AgVentures will begin accepting applications October 15. The deadline is December 15 at 6 p.m.\, but applicants should not assume they can wait until the deadline. \nThe program will accept up to 200 applications for the 2026 cycle. If 200 completed applications arrive before December 15\, the online portal will close early. Each farm may submit only one application. \nFor Appalachian Highlands Farmers Magazine readers\, eligibility depends on location. NC AgVentures serves several counties within or near the magazine’s North Carolina coverage area\, including Alleghany\, Ashe\, Surry\, Wilkes\, and Yadkin counties. The separate WNC AgOptions program serves many western North Carolina counties. Farmers should verify which grant program covers their county before applying. \nPlease register in advance for the November 9 webinar through NC AgVentures. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational and grant opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/nc-agventures-grant-application-webinar-3/
LOCATION:Online / Virtual\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Grants & Deadlines
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/submit-header.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261110
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261111
DTSTAMP:20261025T205046Z
CREATED:20261025T205046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261025T205046Z
UID:11221-1794268800-1794355199@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Agribusiness End-of-Year Reports Workshop — Registration Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Register before the workshop\nCleveland County Extension asks participants to register no later than Nov. 10\, 2026\, for its Compiling Agribusiness End-of-Year Reports workshop. The workshop itself takes place Nov. 16. Register by calling 704-482-4365 or using the link on the official event page. This calendar item marks the registration milestone rather than a class meeting. \nKeep the two dates separate\nWhen planning attendance\, record the registration date and the workshop schedule separately. A reminder for the day of the program may come too late to complete enrollment or resolve a question. Ask the office whether it confirms a telephone registration and what information it needs from you. These are suggested administrative checks\, not a statement that a particular form\, payment or supporting document is required. Follow the organizer’s actual instructions rather than assuming that another county’s process applies. \nSuggested preparation before enrolling\nConsider whether the program’s subject matches the learning question you want to pursue. Identify the recordkeeping or reporting issue you hope to understand better and ask the office if you need clarification about the workshop’s scope. Keep private financial records secure and do not send them to a general registration address unless the organizer specifically requests them through an appropriate process. The deadline does not create a requirement to disclose business finances. Use it to arrange participation and obtain the correct meeting instructions. \nFinish early enough to resolve questions\nNo closing hour is published with this deadline\, so the calendar uses a single date without inventing an end-of-day cutoff. Submit early enough to contact the office if a confirmation is missing or a link fails. Morgan Walker can answer program questions at morgan_walker@ncsu.edu. Ask about accessibility or dietary arrangements when registering rather than waiting until arrival. Keep any confirmation with the separate workshop details\, and check the current event notice for changes. Registering records your intention to attend; use the organizer’s response to verify the final arrangements. \nOfficial information and current participation details
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/agribusiness-end-of-year-reports-workshop-registration-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Education
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T130000
DTSTAMP:20260921T215538Z
CREATED:20260921T201758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T215538Z
UID:10274-1794470400-1794488400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Knoxville Grower-Buyer Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Connect Directly With Regional Food Buyers\nFarmers\, ranchers\, and food producers looking to expand wholesale sales can meet regional buyers directly at the Knoxville Grower-Buyer Meeting on November 12. The free event runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kern’s Bakery\, 2201 Kerns Rising Way in Knoxville. \nThe Knoxville Grower-Buyer Meeting connects East Tennessee agricultural producers with chefs\, restaurant owners\, grocery managers\, distributors\, and institutional food-service buyers interested in local supply. Ultimately\, the goal is to help growers start conversations\, learn buyers’ needs\, and identify relationships to pursue after the event. \n\n\nLearn What Wholesale Buyers Need\nDoors open at 8 a.m. for networking and coffee\, followed by breakfast and a welcome session at 8:30. The main Grower-Buyer Meeting and Meet the Experts session runs from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Farmers can introduce their businesses\, discuss products and seasonal availability\, and ask buyers about purchasing requirements. \nOrganizers make clear that the meeting does not guarantee sales or contracts. Instead\, it is an opportunity to open a door and follow up later. That can help producers considering wholesale markets but not yet sure what individual restaurants\, grocers\, or distributors require. \nBusiness Guidance for Producers\nExperts will discuss marketing\, social media\, and food safety. They will cover Tennessee Department of Agriculture requirements and other wholesale-readiness topics. These topics matter because wholesale channels differ from direct-to-consumer sales in packaging\, delivery\, pricing\, and communication. \nThe Knoxville Grower-Buyer Meeting welcomes produce farmers\, fruit growers\, and row-crop operations. It also welcomes livestock producers\, dairies\, egg suppliers\, and specialty or value-added agricultural businesses. These groups are ready to explore wholesale expansion. Additionally\, partners include Real Good Kitchen Foundation\, Nourish Knoxville\, and UT Extension. \nRegistration is free. Farmers planning to attend may benefit from bringing information about their products\, seasonal availability\, production capacity\, and current sales channels to make the most of conversations with buyers. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/knoxville-grower-buyer-meeting/
LOCATION:Kern’s Bakery\, 2201 Kerns Rising Way\, Knoxville\, TN\, 37920\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20260919_120106-scaled.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T110000
DTSTAMP:20260926T192720Z
CREATED:20260926T192720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T192720Z
UID:10573-1794477600-1794481200@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Fall Crop Protection Webinar #4: Extension Weed Science Update
DESCRIPTION:Fall Crop Protection Webinar #4\nThe Extension Weed Science Update session of the University of Kentucky Fall Crop Protection Webinar Series will be held online from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern. Travis Legleiter of University of Kentucky Extension Weed Science will present the session. \nThe University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture\, Food and Environment and the Grain Crops Pest Management Group are presenting the 2026 Fall Crop Protection Webinar Series. The five-part online series focuses on agronomic crops and integrated pest management and is open to farmers\, Extension agents\, crop consultants\, industry professionals and others. \nEach session runs from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern. Participants must register online and select the webinar dates they want to attend. Certified crop advisers can earn one Integrated Pest Management continuing-education unit for each webinar\, for a possible five CEUs across the full series. Kentucky pesticide applicator credits are pending. \nPart of a Five-Week Series\nThe series runs on consecutive Thursdays from October 22 through November 19. Farmers can register for individual sessions or multiple dates through the official University of Kentucky event page.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/fall-crop-protection-webinar-4-extension-weed-science-update/
CATEGORIES:Education
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T120000
DTSTAMP:20260921T195259Z
CREATED:20260921T194840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T195259Z
UID:10256-1794650400-1794657600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Cover Crops Your Way: Session 2
DESCRIPTION:Build a Cover Crop Plan That Fits the Farm\nFarmers and growers looking to improve soil health can join Cover Crops Your Way\, a two-part workshop scheduled for October 22 and November 14 in Morganton. \nThe program begins with a classroom session from 6 to 8 p.m. October 22 at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Burke County Center\, 130 Ammons Drive.   Participants will return November 14 from 10 a.m. to noon for a hands-on demonstration at Oak Hill Community Park and Forest\, 820 N.C. 126. Pre-registration is required. \nThe workshop moves from classroom instruction to practical field application. \n\n\nCover Crop Selection\, Soil Testing\, and Establishment\nTopics will include the benefits of cover crops\, different cover crop varieties\, soil testing\, planning\, and establishment. Organizers also plan a cover crop planting demonstration during the field portion of the program. \nThe classroom session will cover different cover crop types and how to use them in production environments.   During the November field session\, participants will see how different cover crops are established and gain practical knowledge they can apply to their own operations. \nThat combination may help growers who understand the general benefits of cover crops but need help deciding which species\, planting methods\, or timing make sense for their farms. \nSupporting Healthier Soils\nCover crops can be part of a broader farm-management strategy\, not a one-size-fits-all practice. Producers need to consider their production system\, soil conditions\, planting windows\, and goals when selecting what to grow between cash crops. \nThe workshop aims to help participants develop a cover crop plan rather than simply introducing individual species. \nThe program is being offered through N.C. Cooperative Extension in cooperation with partners including Burke Soil and Water Conservation District\, Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina\, and Empowering Mountain Food Systems. \nFor Appalachian Highlands vegetable producers\, diversified farms\, market gardeners\, and other growers interested in soil health\, the two-session format provides both instruction and an opportunity to see cover-crop establishment in the field. \nParticipants must register in advance. Burke County Extension can also provide additional information about the sessions. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/cover-crops-your-way-session-2/
LOCATION:Oak Hill Community Park and Forest\, 820 NC-126\, Morganton\, NC\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Workshops & Seminars
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T120000
DTSTAMP:20260927T210322Z
CREATED:20260927T210322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T210322Z
UID:10693-1794650400-1794657600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Cover Crops Your Way: Field Demonstration
DESCRIPTION:Put Cover-Crop Planning Into Practice\nThe second session of Cover Crops Your Way will be held November 14 from 10 a.m. to noon at Oak Hill Community Park & Forest in Morganton. This hands-on demonstration follows the October 22 classroom workshop and focuses on establishing different cover crops in the field. \nParticipants will see practical techniques for cover-crop establishment and build on earlier instruction about species selection\, soil testing\, equipment and planning. \nA Hands-On Follow-Up\nThe field session gives growers an opportunity to connect classroom information with actual planting and establishment practices. The two-part format is intended to help farmers and gardeners choose cover crops that match their goals and understand how to put those choices into practice. \nRegistration Required\nThe demonstration will be held at Oak Hill Community Park & Forest\, 820 NC-126 in Morganton. The program is hosted by Burke County N.C. Cooperative Extension with regional partners. Pre-registration is required\, and participants can contact Burke County Extension at 828-764-9480 for information.
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/cover-crops-your-way-field-demonstration/
CATEGORIES:Education
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261115
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261116
DTSTAMP:20261025T205036Z
CREATED:20261025T205036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261025T205036Z
UID:11214-1794700800-1794787199@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Frozen Dessert University Scholarship — Application Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Apply for frozen dessert training support\nSDBII’s Frozen Dessert University scholarship deadline is Nov. 15\, 2026. The course meets Dec. 14–17 in High Point\, North Carolina. Selected applicants receive paid registration and up to $1\,000 in eligible lodging and transportation reimbursement. Mileage and other ground transportation costs are excluded. The notice gives an 11:59 p.m. cutoff without specifying a timezone. Confirm that detail and apply early. \nSuggested application preparation\nDescribe the business decision that this training could help you make. A useful application explanation connects the course with a specific learning need\, rather than a general wish to expand. Identify who would attend and how that person would share relevant information with others in the operation. These are preparation suggestions\, not a scoring rubric or a promise that any particular project will receive preference. Review the actual application before deciding what supporting information to collect. \nPlan the expenses before committing\nCompare the proposed trip with the current award rules. Keep covered registration separate from expenses that require reimbursement and identify costs the business would need to fund itself. Ask when an award decision arrives and what documentation a selected participant must retain. Do not book travel on the assumption that submitting an application guarantees funding. A simple written budget can help you see the cash needed before reimbursement and the amount that would remain your responsibility. \nCheck the current eligibility terms\nUse the SDBII opportunities page and applicant portal for the full business eligibility and personnel limits. Different dairy opportunities on the same page have different rules. This entry marks the scholarship application date\, not a second deadline for course admission or a class taking place that day. Keep a copy of your submission and any confirmation the portal provides. Ask the program about unclear expense categories\, access needs or payment timing before making a commitment. Follow the award instructions you actually receive if selected. \nOfficial information and current participation details
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/frozen-dessert-university-scholarship-application-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Education
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