A Taste of Randolph Farm - VSU College of AGriculture Field Day

Thursday, August 29, 2024 · Registration Begins at 7:30 AM

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA

This year's theme is "A Taste of Randolph Farm." Discover the rich offerings of the VSU College of Agriculture through:

• Diverse and innovative programs in food, agriculture, natural resources, family, youth, nutrition, and community engagement

• Opportunities to meet faculty, researchers, students, Extension specialists, and community members, including small farmers and industry partners

• Hands-on activities and the chance to taste Randolph Farm's produce and meats prepared by culinary experts

• The VSU Trojan Farmer's Market, where you can shop tasty, healthy, local produce and farm products

FARM TOUR STOPS—

• High-Tech Ag - Drones: Mr. Tim Sexton

• USDA Agencies & Virginia Agencies:

  • Farm Service Agency (FSA)

  • Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

  • Risk Management Agency (RMA)

  • Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

  • Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

  • Farm Credit of the Virginias

  • Virginia Department of Social Services

  • Virginia Farm Bureau

  • VA Department of Conservation and Recreation

  • University of Arkansas - RMA Navigator Program

• Food Safety & Packaging: Dr. Chyer Kim and Dr. Toktam Taghavi

• Nocturnal Animals; Stone Garden: Dr. Trakela Wright-Hicks, Ms. Bernadette Darrow, and Ms. Sheree Press

• Aquafarm: Mr. James Hill

• Taste of Randolph Farm: Sample tilapia, catfish, and trout prepared by Chef Reese & Chef Rose (HM students), and lamb by Jessica Queen & Chef Bobby Maddox from Belmont Butchery

• Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) - Aquaponics: Mr. Josh Dusci

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) - Pollinator Health: Dr. Zelalem Mersha

• Edible Flowers & Herbs: Dr. Theresa Nartea & Mrs. Robeson

• High-Tech High Tunnel: Ms. Grace Summers

• COA Departments & Clubs:

  • Department of Agriculture

  • Department of Family Consumer Science

  • Department of Hospitality Management

  • Horticulture Club, MANRRS, Pre-Vet Club

• Ginger & Garlic: Dr. Sanjun Gu

• High Tunnel Hemp: Dr. Ramesh Dhakal

• Soil & Water Quality: Dr. Leonard Githinji

• Recycling of Crop Residue: Dr. Adnan Yousuf

• Power Proteins:

  • Edamame: Dr. Guo-Liang Jiang

  • Faba Beans: Dr. Shahram Torabian

  • Black Beans, Kidney Beans, Great Northern Beans, Pinto Beans, and Navy Beans: Dr. Harbans Bhardwaj

• Small Ruminants: Live animals, Parasite Laboratory, Mobile Processing Unit, and Germplasm Laboratory led by Dr. Dahlia O'Brien & Dr. Stephan Wildeus, Ms. Davida Rimm-Kauffman & Ms. Mackenzie Robertson

• Healthy Animals: Dr. Eunice Ndegwa

• Fruits of Discovery - Canticuber: Dr. Shuxin Ren and Dr. Leah Hamilton

• Deer Fencing: Ms. Amanda Seow

• Switchgrass Energy: Dr. Maru Kering

• Heritage Cattle: Dr. Neal Brown, Mr. Berry Harris & Mr. Isaiah Embry

VSU TROJAN FARMER’S MARKET:

Shop tasty, healthy, local produce, and value-added farm products from these vendors:

• Sycamore Springs Farm (Visit Website)

• Crystal's Catering & Sweet Treats (Visit Facebook)

• Petersburg Oasis Youth Farm (Visit Facebook)

• Truth Village Farms (Read More)

• Browntown Farms (Visit Website)

• MiMi's Kitchen (Cooper Family Farms)

• Don Sebastian Salsa (Visit Website)

• Kate’s Sweet Bakes (Visit Website)

• Crunch On! Snacks

• Chocoberry

• Agriberry (Visit Website)

• JavaBean, LLC (Visit Website)

• Hungershop (Visit Website)

Join us for a family-friendly event that showcases the best of Randolph Farm and the VSU College of Agriculture.

For more information, contact Carrie Bolton at 804-524-5836 or cebolton@vsu.edu; or Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Carrie Bolton at cebolton@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5836 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Hemp Dos and Don’ts

Friday, April 12, 2024 · noon–2:30 pm

Virtual Zoom Workshop

This course will review some of hemp’s basic dos and don’ts. The workshop is excellent for folks interested in hemp but unfamiliar with what they should and should not do to be successful. The discussion will include the different types of industrial hemp, growing conditions, genetics, and post-harvest processing. A representative from VDACS Industrial Hemp will be on site to cover the dos and don’ts from a legal perspective.

Space is limited to 40 participants

For more information, contact Derrick Gooden at  804-586-5352 or email dgooden@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Small Ruminants: Wisdom for Weaning

Thursday, February 22, 2024· 6:30–8:30 pm
Zoom Event

Small ruminant producers of all experience levels will learn about the pros and cons of early vs. late weaning, post-weaning vaccinations, deworming, and other best management practices for promoting growth and weight gain for lambs and kids. Lee Wright, Superintendent and Sheep Specialist of the Southwest VA Agricultural Research and Extension Center will provide instruction and demonstration. There will be a question and answer session for problems associated with weaning and post-weaning.

For more information, contact Mandy Fletcher at 804-892-0108 or afletcher@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Community Day at Randolph Farm

To our valued community and supporters,

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the cancelation of our anticipated VSU AgFest events scheduled for this year, specifically the Fall AgFest Producer Day on October 4th and Community Day on October 5th at Randolph Farm.

The recent Tropical Storm Ophelia has left its mark on our region, severely damaging several beloved attractions on our farm, including the sunflower field, the sorghum maze, and our pumpkin patch. Given the circumstances, it is infeasible to hold the aforementioned events, and we prioritize the safety and well-being of our guests and staff.

However, we're not letting these challenges dampen our spirits entirely. We are eager to invite all of you to the VSU Trojan Farmers Market - the last one for this year - on October 19th. It will take place on campus in the VSU Douglas Wilder Parking Lot #28, Matthews-Jefferson Drive (College Avenue), Petersburg, VA. This event is not just for our VSU family, but also for our surrounding communities. From 12 pm to 2 pm, we will be giving away pumpkins, mums, and other surprises.

Event Contact Information:

• For Market details: Dr. Nartea at tnartea@vsu.edu.

• For Student Volunteer opportunities: Kilah Oliver at koli1323@students.vsu.edu.

We genuinely appreciate your understanding and support. Although we can't share the joy of Fall AgFest with you this year, we look forward to the farmers market and the many more opportunities to come together in the future. Thank you for being a part of our VSU family.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Pasture Lambing Workshop

Friday, July 28, 2023 · 9 am– 4 pm

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA 23803

 $25 per person; Includes lunch and workshop materials 

Hair sheep have been a growing segment of the U.S. sheep and small ruminant industry. They are well suited for sustainable, pasture-based production and are a good fit for novice producers. 

Over the past 20 years, Virginia State University has been managing and conducting research with a hair sheep flock of different breeds. The animals are managed in a low-input, easy-care production system that includes lambing on pasture at different times of the year (April, December and July). 

The day-long workshop introduces sheep producers to pasture lambing and provides hands-on exposure to activities associated with lambing. The research flock at VSU consists of 70 Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix ewes. Peak lambing activity is projected for the day of the workshop.

Workshop presenters include Mackenzie Robertson, Sheep Unit Intern, Dr. Dahlia O‛Brien, Small Ruminant Extension Specialist and Dr. Stephan Wildeus, Research Professor - Small Ruminants. 

$25 per person; Limited to 12 registrants to allow adequate hands-on exposure for participants.

 If you have any questions, please contact Mackenzie Robertson at mrob5952@students.vsu.edu 

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Ruminant Program office at jbrown@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

VSU Farmer Field Day

Wednesday, June 14, 2023 • 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA

Join us for an exciting, hands-on field day designed for Virginia farm producers at the VSU Randolph Farm. This event will allow farmers to enhance their skills, learn about the latest technologies and techniques, and network with other Virginia producers.

The event will feature live demonstrations of various agricultural practices. Attendees will have the chance to engage with VSU Ag Researchers and Virginia Cooperative Extension specialists, who will be on hand to share their expertise and answer questions.

Schedule

7:30 am - 8:00 am - Registration 

8:00 am - 8:30 am - Welcome

8:30 am - 9:30 am - Training #1

9:30 am - 10:00 am - Networking (station reset) 

10:00 am - 11:00 am - Training #2

11:00 am - 11:30 am - Networking (station reset)

11:30 am - 12:30 pm - Training #3

12:45 pm - 2:00 pm - Lunch – Sponsored by Colonial Soil & Water Conservation District

Training Stations (registrants can only choose three stations to visit).

1. Cut Flowers - Ms. Anita Roberson & Dr. Theresa Nartea 

2. High Tunnel Construction - Grace Summers 

3. Cattle - Alston Hilliard & Dr. Neil Brown 

4. Plastic Mulch Laying Drip Irrigation & Tensiometers - Dr. Sanjun Gu & Dr. Leonard Githinji 

5. Pond Cage Construction - Dr. Nick Romano, James Hill, Albert Spells 

6. Sheep - Dr. Dahlia O’Brien & Dr. Stephan Wildeus 

7. Sprayer Calibrations & IPM - Mike Parrish & Dr. Zelalem Mersha 

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at jharris@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5964 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

VSU College of Agriculture Field Day

Thursday, September 1 • 8:30 AM–12:30 PM

Virginia State University’s Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803

This free event will showcase the many ways VSU’s agricultural researchers, Extension specialists and professors support Virginia’s agriculture and forestry industries, the commonwealth’s number one private economic driver, with an annual economic impact of more than $91 billion.

Hop on and off trollies as they circle throughout Randolph Farm’s 416 acres and learn from the commonwealth’s leading experts about the latest techniques, trends, research and success stories impacting small-scale, limited-resource farmers and ranchers.

See first-hand how VSU’s research, teaching and public programming is enhancing the resiliency of Virginia’s food systems and addressing food safety and insecurity, especially among those who have limited social and economic resources.

Learn how you, your family, your business and your community can benefit from the food and agri-science programs at VSU.

EXPLORE

• Mobile Sheep & Goat Processing Unit

• Pond Aquaculture

• Hydroponic and Aquaponic Grow Systems

• High Tunnel Production

• Livestock Grazing Demonstration

• Industrial Hemp

• Sheep & Goat Production

• And More

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at (804) 524-5964 or jbrown@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5964 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Building Fish Cages For Ponds

Tuesday, May 3, 2022• 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Rd., Petersburg, VA

Participants will learn the basics of cage aquaculture and construct a fish cage. Raising fish in cages can utilize a water resource that is not suitable for other aquaculture production techniques. Farm ponds are a good example where cage aquaculture is quite suited as a production means.

Cage-building materials will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring leather gloves, tin snips, a tape measure, cutting pliers, and protective goggles

Featured Speakers: David Crosby, PhD, Fish Health Specialist, VSU & Cynthia L. Gregg, Extension Agent, ANR/UC, Brunswick County

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at jbrown@vsu.edu or call 804-524-5964.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Jessica Harris at jbrown@vsu.edu or call 804-524-5964 / TDD 800-828-1120 during business hours of 8AM and 5PM to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Basic Computer Skills for Farmers

Wednesday, March 16, 2022 · 6:00 om – 8:00 pm

Caroline Public Library, 17202 Richmond Turnpike, Milford, VA

Small-scale farmers are invited to join the Basic Computer Skills for Farmers workshop to learn techniques that are beneficial for use at home and in farm business operations. The workshop is designed especially for those with minimal computer experience. Participants will be introduced to computer operating systems, how to use a mouse, how to create, save and manage documents and images, how to create an email address, send email, navigate the Internet safely and effectively, and more.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

USDA Information Session

Thursday, October 21, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

This event has been cancelled. Please check the calendar for more events.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

How to Dig, Cure, and Store Sweet Potatoes

Wednesday, Oct 20, 2021 • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Event

Tracy Porter, a VSU SFOP Regional Program Assistant will provide a lecture and a pre-recorded video on how to dig, cure and store sweet potatoes. Marketing strategies will also be discussed. Tracy has years of experience planting and harvesting sweet potatoes. This workshop will help all beginning farmers and those looking to increase value.

For more information, contact Tracy Porter at (804) 481-2566 or tporter@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Hispanic Field Day

Wednesday, June 30, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Rosa’s Garden • 4301 Fox Hunter Lane, Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Cost: $10 • Limit 12 people

If you would like to get notified when this event is open for registration, please subscribe to our event email list.

For more information, contact the Small Farm Outreach Program at (804) 524-3292 or smallfarm@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

USDA Information Session

Thursday, Jun 24, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Join us for an inviting conversation with various agencies of USDA including Farm Service Agency (FSA), Rural Development (RD), Natural Resources and Conservation Services (NRCS) among others. USDA officials from around the state will share the agencies programs and opportunities for small farmers and will answer your questions concerning eligibility and participation. Join us to stay informed on all the new and current programs USDA has to assist our Virginia farmers.

For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Small Farm Orientation

This event has been cancelled. The next Small Farm Orientation is scheduled for August 9, 2021.

The program is geared to new and beginning farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Participants are directed through the process of developing a productive and profitable operation. Small Farm Outreach agent Vernon Health, developer and instructor for the program, has over 40 years of work experience in the Virginia agriculture industry. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation Manual developed by the instructor.

For more information, contact Small Farm Outreach agent Vernon Heath at (804) 892-4518 or vheath@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Hispanic Field Day

Wednesday, May 26, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Fair Produce • 274 Cedar Grove Rd, Lawrenceville, VA

Cost: $10 • Limit 12 people

Hispanic farmer Pedro Lopez has lambs, goats, and chickens on his farm. During the field day, we will be able to see how Mr. Lopez can take advantage of a small space for the production of his animals. He will explain to us how he keeps and sells them in the markets around his farm.

For more information, contact Hispanic Outreach Coordinator Mery Caldwell at (804) 481-0425 or mcaldwell@vsu.edu.

This workshop costs $10 and open to the public. Space is limited to the first 12 registrants.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are expected to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.

For more information, contact the Small Farm Outreach Program at (804) 524-3292 or smallfarm@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Growing Ethnic Vegetables

Tuesday, May 18, 2021 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Increasing demand for ethnic food offers small farmers tremendous opportunities to diversify their food production systems. Small Farm Resource Center coordinator and chief grower for Carter Farms Michael Carter Jr. will lead this workshop to show small farmers how to grow and market specific crops that appeal to customers. Participants will increase their knowledge in reference to planting African runner peanuts, cocoa yams, African spinach and jute leaf. Topics to be covered are soil requirements, planting, cultivating, harvesting and marketing of ethnic crops.

For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Aquaponics

Thursday, May 13, 2021 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Aquaponics is the integration of growing plants and fish into one system. Find out how to begin small scale aquaponics systems for hobbyists, schools, and as an enterprise for a farm or urban setting. A small scale aquaponics unit will be demonstrated as part of the workshop.

For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at (804) 892-4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

Pastured Poultry Workshop

Thursday, May 6, 2021 • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

The Small Farm Outreach Program will hold a virtual panel discussion in reference to small farmers raising and pasturing poultry. Topics will include layers versus breeders, space needed, disease management, predator management, processing and markets.

For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

High Tunnel Types and Construction

Wednesday, May 5, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

A high tunnel is an agricultural structure that allows a grower to extend the growing season and protect crops from adverse weather conditions. Workshop participants will learn about using high tunnels to grow horticulture crops. Topics covered will be structure selection, management, maintenance and costs associated with high tunnel production. Special emphasis will be place on all phases of high tunnel construction. Participants will learn about proper crop selection for protected culture. Also covered will be resources for materials and supplies.

For more information, contact Clifford Somerville at (804) 892-4581 or csomerville@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Farm Equipment Safety

Tuesday, April 27, 2021 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Agriculture safety should be a main concern to all who work or live on a farm, and everyone on the farm should understand the risks involved and follow proper safety procedures. Sometimes farmers and farm workers sustain injuries or experience a disability that impedes their capability to work, and these injuries not only impact the farmers, but also their families and even their community. The farm equipment safety workshop will increase the participants’ knowledge of their responsibility to operate equipment in a safe manner.

For more information, contact Michael Carter Sr. at (804) 481-1163 or mcarter@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Growing Small Grains Organically

This is event is rescheduled to Thursday, April 27, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

The Small Farm Outreach Program will hold a virtual panel discussion for Virginia’s small farmers raising small and specialty grains with organic production principles for livestock, mills and human consumption. We will discuss issues such as seed selection, weed control, pest control, no or limited tillage, commodity pricing, marketing, harvesting and harvesting equipment innovations, storage, transporting and useful agricultural technologies.

For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

For more information, contact the Small Farm Outreach Program at (804) 524-3292 or smallfarm@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Aquatic Weeds in Farm Ponds

Tuesday, April 27, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Every spring, farm ponds come back to life. Aquatic weeds are the first to be noticed covering the pond. Aquatic weeds can cause issues for farm pond owners. How do you control aquatic weeds in ponds? This Zoom program will cover the various control means and the different aquatic weeds in a pond.

For more information, contact David Crosby at (804) 524-3653 or dcrosby@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

2021 Berry Walk

Tuesday, April 22, 2021 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Virtual Facebook Live Meeting

(PLEASE NOTE DATE CHANGE, CORRECT DATE IS THURSDAY 4/22)

Dr. Reza Rafie will walk you through the VSU collection of the blueberry varieties and their potential for the 2021 production season. we will show you blueberry grown in a greenhouse, in high tunnels and in the field. we will demonstrated the basics of planting blueberry in the field and in containers. There will be a Q&A session at the end of this event.

For more information, contact Reza Rafie at (804) 712-4600 or arafie@vsu.edu.

VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE (https://www.facebook.com/VsuCollegeOfAgriculture) AT 4PM ON TUESDAY, APRIL 20, AT 4 PM TO VIEW THIS EVENT.

USDA Information Session

Thursday, April 22, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Join us for an inviting conversation with various agencies of USDA including Farm Service Agency (FSA), Rural Development (RD), Natural Resources and Conservation Services (NRCS) among others. USDA officials from around the state will share the agencies programs and opportunities for small farmers and will answer your questions concerning eligibility and participation. Join us to stay informed on all the new and current programs USDA has to assist our Virginia farmers.

For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Recreational Marijuana Informational Session

Tuesday, April 20, 2021 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Join the VSU SFOP and Virginia Small Farm Resource Center for an engaging conversation on the legalization of adult use recreational marijuana and what it could mean to small farmers with representatives from various state agencies, stakeholders and legislators. Small farmers will get an opportunity to ask their questions, share their concerns and hear about potential opportunities for legal growing operations in the Commonwealth.

For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

USDA Information Session

Thursday, April 15, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply for USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) direct or guaranteed loans and grants from USDA. Beginning, minority and veteran farmers can get help to prepare applications for farm ownership and operating loans and obtain the required borrower training.

Find out about the resources and current grants that are available from USDA, including the Rural Development Renewable Energy for America (REAP) grant and loan guarantee program, ValueAdded Producer Grant (VAPG) program, and Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) program. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs are also available to help you implement conservation practices that reduce soil erosion, enhance water supplies, improve water quality, increase wildlife habitat and reduce damages caused by floods and other natural disasters.

A multidisciplinary team from Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Small Farm Outreach Program at Virginia State University, and USDA agencies ensures that our financial and business management programs are innovative, culturally sensitive, level appropriate and practical for small-scale farm operations. The VCE Small Farm Outreach Program at VSU is an approved USDA FSA Borrower Training Vendor

For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at (804) 892-4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

VA Fresh Match/SNAP

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

Learn how to participate in the Virginia Fresh Match program that doubles the value of SNAP EBT (food stamps) for fresh fruits and vegetables. This webinar will inform you how healthy food incentives are used to increase consumer purchasing power so families with tight food budgets can bring home more fruits and vegetables. Learn how nutrition incentives work in your community, and how participation in the Virginia Fresh Match network can help you reach new customers and benefit your farming operation.

For more information, contact Michael Carter, Jr. at (804) 691-0490 or micarter@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Farm Family Financial Wellness

Thursday, April 8, 2021 • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

The mission of the FCS-Family Resource /Financial Management Office is to increase the capacity of communities and families to enhance their economic well-being. Financial well-being is defined by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) as consumers:

1. Have control over day-to-day, month-to-month finances

2. Have the capability to absorb a financial shock

3. Are on track to meet financial goals.

Our performance goal is to annually improve the financial status of individuals, families and entrepreneurs through financial management education programs, activities and coaching.

For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at (804) 892-4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Vegetable Production and Crop Selection

Wednesday, April 7, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

Vegetables can be an important crop for both small-scale farmers and home gardeners. Workshop participants will learn about production techniques, varieties and protected culture systems to grow vegetables for home use or as a business enterprise. Special attention will be on proper techniques for transplant production, alternative production systems, tillage, potential pests and planning. Crops that have market potential and potential health benefits will be emphasized.

For more information, contact Clifford Somerville at (804) 892-4581 or csomerville@vsu.edu.

YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM MEETING LINK IN THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A LINK, PLEASE EMAIL smallfarm@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.