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X-WR-CALNAME:Appalachian Highlands Farmers Magazine
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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Appalachian Highlands Farmers Magazine
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261001
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CREATED:20260921T201758Z
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UID:10272-1790812800-1790899199@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Robinson Center Field Day
DESCRIPTION:Eastern Kentucky Agriculture Takes Center Stage\nThe University of Kentucky Robinson Center will hold its 2026 Field Day on October 1 at the Robinson Center in Jackson\, Kentucky. The all-day event is part of the center’s broader Mountain Ag Week programming. It allows producers\, families\, youth\, and community members to connect with agricultural research\, Extension education\, and regional resources focused on Eastern Kentucky and the Appalachian region. \nThe Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability is part of the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture\, Food and Environment. Its work centers on agriculture\, forestry\, natural resources\, and community development in Eastern Kentucky.   The center includes research and outreach facilities that allow university specialists and Extension personnel to work directly with producers and communities in the region. \n\nPhoto courtesy of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture\, Food and Environment \nWhat Farmers Can Expect\nThe Robinson Center has not yet posted the detailed 2026 Field Day agenda. Recent Robinson Center Field Days have included farm tours\, interactive demonstrations\, hands-on workshops\, and conversations with University of Kentucky specialists. Recent programs have highlighted field research\, forestry\, wood products\, crop trials\, and other topics tied to the center’s research and Extension work. \nThe annual Field Day has also given producers and community members a chance to see research projects in a working farm setting and ask university staff questions directly. The October 1 event follows other Mountain Ag Week activities at the Robinson Center\, including Youth Science Day and Win With Wood. \nA Regional Resource for Producers\nFarmers and landowners in Eastern Kentucky may find the event especially useful because the Robinson Center’s mission specifically includes the land\, natural resources\, and people of Eastern Kentucky and the Appalachian region. Producers interested in livestock\, crops\, woodland management\, agricultural technology\, or regional research may want to watch for the final 2026 agenda. \nThe University of Kentucky currently lists Robinson Center Field Day as an all-day event on October 1. Additional details\, including the final schedule and any registration instructions\, may be released as the event approaches. Farmers planning to travel should check the official event listing before leaving for Jackson. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/robinson-center-field-day/
LOCATION:Robinson Center\, 130 Robinson Road\, Jackson\, KY\, 41339\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Field Days
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ORGANIZER;CN="University of Kentucky Robinson Center":MAILTO:robinson.center@uky.edu
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260930T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260930T000000
DTSTAMP:20260927T212030Z
CREATED:20260926T192714Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T212030Z
UID:10567-1790726400-1790726400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Free Kentucky BQCA Certification Enrollment Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Kentucky BQCA Certification is available at no cost for a limited time\, giving beef producers an opportunity to complete the Beef Quality and Care Assurance program before the enrollment deadline. The training focuses on animal care\, handling\, and management practices that support responsible beef production. \n\n\nFree Kentucky BQCA Enrollment Ends September 30\nThe Kentucky Beef Network and University of Kentucky Extension are covering Beef Quality and Care Assurance enrollment costs for Kentucky producers through September 30. The promotion makes online BQCA certification free during September 2026. \nKentucky’s BQCA program builds on national Beef Quality Assurance practices and adds training on cattle handling and animal care. Educational modules cover best-management practices for handling cattle\, supporting animal well-being and applying the core principles of BQCA. \nUse the September Enrollment Code\nProducers completing the training online can access the Kentucky Beef Network training platform and use the September promotional code listed by UK Extension. The regular online enrollment cost is $10\, but the Kentucky Beef Network and University of Kentucky Extension are sponsoring that cost from September 1 through September 30. \nProducers who want the free online certification should complete enrollment before the end of September. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about Educational and grant opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/free-kentucky-bqca-certification-enrollment-deadline/
LOCATION:TN
CATEGORIES:Certifications,Courses & Training,Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/KY-BQCA-2-scaled.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T203000
DTSTAMP:20260923T190054Z
CREATED:20260913T153925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T190054Z
UID:9675-1790708400-1790713800@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:NC AgVentures Grant Application Webinar
DESCRIPTION:NC AgVentures will offer a Farm Grant Application Overview Webinar on September 29 at 7 p.m. to help North Carolina farmers understand eligibility\, project requirements\, and the 2026 application process.  \nLearn How to Prepare a NC AgVentures Grant Application \nNorth Carolina farmers considering a 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 N.C. 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 organizers offer three applicant webinars during the 2026 grant cycle\, including the November 9 session. 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. Recipients 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 a 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. \nNC AgVentures Grant Application 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. \nAdvance registration is required for the November 9 webinar through NC AgVentures. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/nc-agventures-grant-application-webinar/
LOCATION:Online / Virtual\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Grants & Deadlines,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/submit-header.png
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T210000
DTSTAMP:20260927T153135Z
CREATED:20260926T192457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T153135Z
UID:10554-1790704800-1790715600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Farm Dreams
DESCRIPTION:Explore Whether Farming Is Right for You\nOrganic Growers School will offer its Farm Dreams workshop online on September 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. This entry-level program is designed for people considering a farming career who want practical guidance before making major commitments of land\, money\, or time. \nParticipants will examine their resources\, skills\, intentions\, and expectations while learning about the realities of operating a small farm. The workshop emphasizes thoughtful planning rather than rushing into production. \n\n\nBuild a Practical Path Forward\nFarm Dreams introduces participants to sustainable farming careers in Western North Carolina and the wider Southern Appalachian region. Attendees begin developing an educational plan\, identify regional training and support networks\, and clarify the next steps that fit their own farm goals. \nThe program also connects aspiring farmers with experienced growers who can speak about the day-to-day realities of operating a farm business. \nDesigned for Beginning Farmers\nThe workshop is appropriate for people who are still deciding whether to farm\, as well as those who have already started exploring land\, enterprises\, or training opportunities. Participants do not need an established farm business to participate. \nOrganizers will host the September 29 session online. Prospective participants should register through Organic Growers School before the workshop. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about Educational and grant opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/farm-dreams-3/
LOCATION:TN
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/loans-1-scaled.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T210000
DTSTAMP:20260921T174839Z
CREATED:20260913T153925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T174839Z
UID:9673-1790704800-1790715600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Farm Dreams Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Explore Whether Farming Is the Right Path at the Farm Dreams workshop\nOrganic Growers School will offer its Farm Dreams workshop online on September 29 from 6 to 9 p.m.\, giving aspiring farmers an opportunity to explore what it takes to turn an interest in agriculture into a realistic farming plan. \nFarm Dreams workshop is an entry-level program for people considering starting a small farm but who may not yet know what type of operation they want to build\, what training they need\, or what resources they already have. \nRather than assuming participants are ready to launch a farm business\, the workshop encourages them to examine whether farming fits their skills\, goals\, and desired lifestyle. \n\n\nAssess Skills\, Resources and Intentions\nParticipants will assess their existing resources\, skills\, and farming intentions while beginning to develop an educational plan for their agricultural goals. \nFarm Dreams workshop also introduces participants to sustainable farming careers in Western North Carolina and to regional training programs and support networks that can help them continue learning. Experienced North Carolina farmers will participate\, giving prospective producers a chance to hear from people already operating farms. \nThat can be valuable for people who have enthusiasm for farming but limited experience with the business and lifestyle realities that come with agricultural production. \nQuestions about land\, equipment\, production knowledge\, business planning\, and markets can quickly become important when someone moves from gardening or agricultural employment toward operating an independent farm. \nA Starting Point in Farmer Education\nOrganic Growers School offers farmer education for people at several stages of their agricultural careers. Farm Dreams serves as an early step for those still exploring farming\, while programs such as Farm Beginnings and Journeyperson provide more intensive training for people farther along in their farming careers. \nThe September 29 session is online\, making it accessible to prospective farmers throughout the Appalachian Highlands without requiring travel to Western North Carolina. \nFarm Dreams workshop Participants can use the workshop to identify gaps in their experience\, consider the resources they will need\, and establish practical next steps before making major financial or land commitments. \nOrganic Growers School describes the Farm Dreams workshop as practical\, common-sense training designed to help prospective farmers better understand both the challenges and possibilities of starting a farm. The organization offers registration online. \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/farm-dreams/
LOCATION:Online / Virtual\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Farm-Dreams-1-scaled.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260929T140000
DTSTAMP:20260922T212645Z
CREATED:20260913T153925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T212645Z
UID:9674-1790672400-1790690400@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Win With Wood
DESCRIPTION:Forestry Skills Meet Career Exploration at Win With Wood\nWin With Wood will bring Kentucky youth to the University of Kentucky Wood Utilization Center in Jackson on September 29 for a day of hands-on forestry education\, wood-industry skills\, and career exploration. \nThe annual event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wood Utilization Center\, part of the Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability. The program connects young people with forest and wood-industry professionals\, Extension agents\, community leaders\, and University of Kentucky specialists. \nThe event introduces participants to Kentucky’s forest products sector while giving them opportunities to test skills they may use in forestry and wood-related careers. \n\n\nWin With Wood Competitions Build Practical Skills\nParticipants can compete in a variety of forestry and wood-products events. Competitions reflect skills used in both primary and secondary wood industries\, as well as traditional forestry work. \nYouth may take part in as many events as they choose. Registration begins at 9 a.m.\, competitions start at 9:30 a.m.\, and continue until 1 p.m.\, with the overall program ending at 2 p.m. \nThe program separates participants into two age divisions. Juniors are ages 9 through 13\, while seniors are ages 14 through 18. \nIn addition to competition\, students can meet forestry professionals and learn about education\, training\, and career paths connected to Kentucky’s wood and forest industries. The program aims to give young people a realistic look at the skills these careers require while exposing them to opportunities they might not encounter otherwise. \nScholarship and Recognition Available\nParticipants earn points based on their performance in the individual events. The three highest-scoring participants in each division receive Charles Barnhart medallions. \nThe highest-scoring senior is also eligible for the Albert W. Spencer $500 scholarship\, sponsored by the Kentucky Forest Industries Association and the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture\, Food and Environment. \nThe scholarship adds a college and career-development component to a program already focused on forestry education and workforce awareness. \nAppalachian Forestry Has Regional Importance\nEastern Kentucky concentrates much of the state’s forestland\, keeping forestry especially relevant there. That makes programs such as Win With Wood particularly useful for Appalachian youth who may live near working forests and wood-products businesses but have limited exposure to the careers associated with them. \nWin With Wood gives students a chance to turn that regional resource into a learning experience by combining competition\, outdoor education\, and direct interaction with people working in the industry. \nThe official registration deadline was September 18. Teachers and families interested in late-registration possibilities should contact their local 4-H agent or the event organizers for current availability. \nDate: September 29\, 2026\nTime: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.\nLocation: University of Kentucky Wood Utilization Center\, 311 Woodcenter Drive\, Jackson\, Kentucky \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/win-with-wood/
LOCATION:UK Wood Utilization Center\, 311 Woodcenter Drive\, Jackson\, KY\, 41339\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Field Days,Workshops & Seminars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026header-www-2.png
ORGANIZER;CN="University of Kentucky Forestry and Natural Resources":MAILTO:forestry.extension@uky.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260928T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260928T200000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210554Z
CREATED:20260913T153925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T210554Z
UID:9672-1790620200-1790625600@appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com
SUMMARY:Organic Pest Management Webinar
DESCRIPTION:Build an Ecological Approach to Pest Management\nOrganic Growers School will offer its Organic Pest Management Webinar on September 28 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Eastern as part of its 2026 Organic Crop Management series. The free online session will help growers better understand agricultural pests and develop practical strategies to prevent and respond to pest problems on the farm. \nTom Elmore of Thatchmore Farm will lead the workshop. Elmore brings more than 30 years of farming experience and will share pest-management practices that have worked on his own operation. \n\nBeatriz Moisset\, CC BY-SA 3.0 \nUnderstand Pests Before Trying to Control Them\nThe webinar will take an ecological approach rather than focusing only on what to do after damaging insects appear. \nParticipants will learn about pest biology and how pests interact with the larger farm ecosystem. The session will also address techniques for sampling and monitoring pest populations and beneficial insects. \nUnderstanding those relationships can help farmers determine whether a pest population requires intervention and which management strategy may be appropriate. \nThe program will also examine connections among pests\, soil conditions\, and nutrient management. These relationships matter because crop health and growing conditions can influence a plant’s vulnerability to pest pressure. \nEncourage Beneficial Insects and Prevent Damage\nThe workshop will cover management strategies farmers can use to prevent pest damage while encouraging beneficial insects. \nBeneficial insects can play an important role in ecological crop management by preying on or otherwise helping control agricultural pests. Learning to recognize these insects can also help growers avoid management practices that unintentionally eliminate organisms that help protect crops. \nParticipants will learn how to develop a plan for managing pest outbreaks rather than waiting until damage becomes severe. \nThat planning approach can help growers think through monitoring\, prevention and response strategies before pest pressure becomes an emergency. \nPart of a Broader Organic Crop Management Series\nOrganic Growers School’s Organic Crop Management series provides training in soil health\, weeds\, pests and diseases. The organization says the series is designed to give growers whole-farm management tools while also addressing standards and record-keeping requirements involved in applying for and maintaining organic certification. \nThe September 28 pest-management session follows Organic Soil Management and Organic Weeds Management workshops earlier in the month. An Organic Disease Management webinar is scheduled for October 5. \nThe pest-management webinar may be useful to organic growers\, farmers transitioning toward organic production\, and other producers interested in reducing pest pressure through ecological and preventative management practices. \nYou can register through Organic Growers School. \nDate: September 28\, 2026\nTime: 6:30-8 p.m. Eastern\nFormat: Online\nCost: Free \n  \nRead our full-length articles about educational opportunities here!
URL:https://appalachianhighlandsfarmers.com/event/organic-pest-management-webinar/
LOCATION:Online / Virtual\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Webinars
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