Farm to table market Day and Urban Ag Workshop

Saturday, March 15, 2025 • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

1500 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, VA 23607

This is community supported urban agriculture workshop and interactive agri-marketing resource event for area farmers which includes:

• grow your own food workshop for youth and adults

• plant and seeds giveaway

• farmers market

Plus educational sessions that cover:

• soil health

• plant propagation

• urban farming

• controlled environmental agriculture

• native plants

• fertilizer options

• integrated pest management

• and post harvesting strategies.

For more information, contact Tabitha Bugg at tbugg@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.

Farm Liability Issues

Wednesday, March 12, 2025 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

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

Farms and homesteads can be dangerous.  With a myriad of perils, it is important that landowners understand their responsibility to keep visitors safe and the liability they may incur if an injury occurs. Agents from the Virginia Farm Bureau will discuss why you, as a landowner, need the correct amount of liability insurance to protect yourself from financial ruin.  There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end.

For more information, contact James Gibson at 804-720-6826 or jegibson@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, sex (including pregnancy), 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 Renovation

Saturday, September 28, 2024 · 10 am–noon 

Reva, Virginia

Pasture renovation is defined as the process of improving species composition and extending the productive life of pastures. In this workshop, we will carefully review the six critical steps for pasture renovation. It’s important to note that pastures decline over time, but with proper care, the rate and severity of decline can be avoided. The workshop will answer several questions, including how to improve your pasture and why it is worth the effort.

For more information, contact Roland Terrell at 804-892-4612 or rterrell@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Understanding Farm Loans & Insurance Coverage

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

Permaculture, Perennials and Plant Selection

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 · 10 am–noon 

Sandy’s Plants, 8011 Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville, VA

Permaculture is a land management and design approach that adopts practices observed in flourishing natural ecosystems. It includes a set of design principles derived using whole-system thinking. It is a philosophy of working with, rather than against, nature. Sandy’s Plants is one of the largest suppliers of container-grown plants on the East Coast and utilizes open beds to ensure durability. They label each perennial with detailed descriptions of their traits.

Space is limited to 12 participants.

For more information, contact Forrest Hobbs at  804-892-5910 or fhobbs@vsu.edu; or James Gibson at 804-720-6826 or jegibson@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Farm and Farm Equipment Safety

This event has been cancelled.

Plastic-Laying Demonstration

This event has been cancelled. For more events, please see our full calendar.

irrigation and soil moisture management for farmers

Wednesday, August 21, 2024 · 9 am–noon

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Rd, Petersburg, VA

Farmers will learn about Irrigation systems and efficiencies, How to conduct an audit of the system, making determinations of when to irrigate and when to stop irrigation events. They will learn about the water holding capacity of soils, root depths and transmission of water under different circumstances. Farmers and growers will learn how to determine the soil moisture content and how to make sensible decisions

For more information, contact Tim Sexton at 804-524-1028, or email tsexton@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, sex (including pregnancy), 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: Flock/Herd Considerations for Breeding

Thursday, July 25, 2024 · 7:30–8:30 pm

Virtual Zoom Workshop

Breeding season and reproductive management of flocks and herds vary from farm to farm and are dependent on many factors. Regardless of management practices, most sheep and goat producers attempt to increase their flock’s or herd’s profitability and optimize the number of healthy offspring. What choices you make now—whether to cull, ram selection, breeding soundness exams, caring for ewes and proper nutrition—will influence the next 8 to 10 months of the year in your flock or herd. Learn best management practices regardless of the size of your operation.

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

Photo: Ulf Kintzel/White Clover Sheep Farm

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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Aerial Imagery for Farmers

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 · 9 am–noon

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

This workshop will provide farmers and gardeners with an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of aerial imagery, how it has been used, how to apply it to profitable agriculture production, how it can assist in making real-time decisions on disease and insect issues, and how it can have an impact on forestry management and herd health.

Space is limited to 40 participants.

For more information, contact Tim Sexton at 804-524-1028 or tsexton@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Setting up a Whole Farm Irrigation System

Tuesday, July 2, 2024 · 9 am–12:30 pm

Dundas, Virginia

Being able to water your field crops is essential during the summer months to keep your production going. Bruce and Walter Thompson, owners of Willowland Farm in Dundas, Virginia, will explain how they set up an irrigation system from the pond to each of their fields. They will show how the irrigation pump works and how they can control which fields are irrigated through an underground pipe system and control valves. They will also speak about using crop rotation for better production.

Space is limited to 20 participants.

For more information, contact Marilyn Estes at 804-481-0485 or mestes@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, sex (including pregnancy), 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: Farm Safety & Humane Handling

Thursday, June 27, 2024 · 6:30–9 pm

Glade Spring, Virginia

Small ruminants can be handled without expensive facilities. Generally, sheep and goats are friendly, calm, and a joy to raise. Despite their smaller size compared to cattle, it’s easy to underestimate their strength! Respecting them and being mindful of human and livestock safety measures is essential. Safety is paramount if you’re working sheep or goats alone, without someone to watch your back or lend a hand if needed. Beginning and experienced shepherds will enjoy a hands-on experience at Shepherd’s Way Farm. You will learn to understand animal behavior better, handle small ruminants humanely and safely, and take steps toward good stockmanship. Participants will gain experience in calmly working sheep or goats in pastures, pens, chutes, and handling facilities. Registration is required. A free dinner will be provided.

Space is limited to 20 participants.

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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Bringing Basic Solar Energy to Your Farm

Monday, June 10, 2024 · 6–8 pm

Fredericksburg, Virginia

This workshop has been canceled. For more information, contact Michael Carter Sr. at (804) 481-1163 or mcarter@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Emergency Preparedness

Thursday, May 30, 2024 · 4–6 pm

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

This workshop has been canceled. For more information, contact James Gibson at 804-720-6826 or jegibson@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Birds, bees, and urban trees

Friday, May 17, 2024 · 1–3 pm

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

Do you like birdwatching? Which tree is best for collecting honey? Interested in identifying bird, bee, and urban tree relationships? Dive deep into the connections, benefits, and functions of birds, bees, and urban trees within urban forestry ecosystems. We will explore the effects urban sprawl or "heat islands" have on birds and urban forests. Plus: buy honey from some local farmers!

For more information, contact Dr. Trakela Wright-Hicks at twright-hicks@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Precision Agriculture in Virginia

Friday, May 17, 2024 · 9 am–noon 

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

Farmers and Growers will have the opportunity to learn about the different aspects of managing their farm field by field and intra-field by using multiple inputs that occur during the growing season up through post-harvest, along with the aids to farmers that make the decisions easier to make, such as precise soil testing locations to determine intra-field variables, disease or pest test results, or pre-side-dress nitrate testing, which will reduce variability in yields and increase farm profits.

Space is limited to 30 participants.

For more information, contact Tim Sexton at 804-524-1028, or tsexton@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.

Modern Chicken Tractor Familiarization

Tuesday, May 7, 2024 · 10 am–noon 

Suffolk, Virginia

Regenerative agriculture empowers farmers to use principles that improve land health. Come explore and experience the animal-soil-plants-human connection and its profound benefits. Learn about paddock rotation using small fowl and the intensive grazing methods offered by a European-style “egg mobile” chicken tractor. We will also discuss usage, design and layout of solar-powered fencing and how to use it effectively to protect your flock. 

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916, or email bdukes@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.

Aerial Imagery for Farmers

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 · 9 am–noon

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

This workshop will provide farmers and gardeners with an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of aerial imagery, how it has been used, how to apply it to profitable agriculture production, how it can assist in making real-time decisions on disease and insect issues, and how it can have an impact on forestry management and herd health.

Space is limited to 30 participants.

For more information, contact Tim Sexton at 804-524-1028 or tsexton@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.

High Tunnel Maintenance and Repair

Saturday, March 30, 2024 · 10 am–noon

Carver Center, 9432 N. James Madison Highway, Rapidan, VA

When growing vegetables in a controlled environment, you need a strong and safe structure for you and your vegetable crop. Now is the time to prepare your high tunnel for spring planting. The high tunnel must be planned, designed, and constructed from a manufactured kit with directions. Periodically inspect and repair the high tunnel as needed to maintain a strong structure. This workshop teaches you how. 

For more information, contact Roland Terrell at 804-892-4612 or rterrell@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.

VSU Agfest Block Party - National ag Day Celebration

Tuesday, March 19, 2024 · 11 am –3 pm

VSU University Ave, Foster Hall

Join us at VSU AgFest, an annual celebration of agriculture and community spirit hosted by the Virginia State University College of Agriculture! At VSU AgFest, we come together to honor National Ag Day and showcase the vital role agriculture plays in our lives and communities.

What to Expect:

A day filled with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, entertainment, and delicious food. There's something for everyone at VSU AgFest.

• Interactive Exhibits: Explore innovative farming methods and sustainability practices at our interactive exhibits, including hydroponic unit displays from Randolph Farm.

• Close Encounters: Meet adorable small farm animals and learn about their essential role in agriculture.

• Family Fun: Enjoy inflatable activities, pedal carts, and entertainment for all ages along University Ave.

• Culinary Delights: Indulge in delicious fare from local food trucks, featuring the Hospitality Management Department.

• VSU Farmers' Market: Shop local and support small farmers at the VSU Farmer's Market, featuring a variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods.

• Music and Dance: Groove to the beat with live music and line dancing sessions, celebrating the vibrant culture intertwined with agriculture.

• Fashion Showcase: Discover the fascinating connection between fashion and agriculture at our fashion showcase, highlighting how fibers and textiles create garments.

• Educational Insights: Gain valuable knowledge on nutrition, climate-smart practices, and pollution, and explore the integrated well-being of families and communities.

• AND MUCH MORE!

Why Attend:

We believe in the power of community and the importance of agriculture in our daily lives. Whether you're a student, faculty member, community member, or industry professional, you'll find inspiration, education, and camaraderie at this special event.

Stay Connected:

Follow us on social media (@vsu_ag) and sign up for event updates to stay informed about the latest news and announcements regarding VSU AgFest. Together, let's celebrate agriculture and make a difference in our community!

For more information, contact us at agriculturerelations@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5493.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact us at agriculturerelations@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5493 / 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.

Laying Plastic Mulch in Your Operation

Saturday, March 16, 2024 · 10 am–noon 

Providence Forge, Virginia

Be a few steps ahead of the growing season by adding plastic mulch to your farming operation. This demonstration will include laying plastic on 3-foot-wide rows (with drip tape for irrigation). This season-extending farming method includes crowned beds to assist in water runoff, raising the soil temperature 10 degrees Fahrenheit, and ensuring irrigation is localized directly to the root zone. Light snacks, coffee, and water will be provided. The rain date is March 23, 10 am-noon.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or James Gibson at 804-720-6826 or jegibson@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Understanding the Function of Small Engine Parts

Saturday, March 9, 2024 · 10 am–12 pm

VSU Agriculture Engineering Building, 101 Myster Macklin Street, Ettrick, VA

The small engine, both two-stroke and four-stroke, has many intricate parts, all involved in properly operating the machine. The numbers two and four refer to how many piston strokes the engine takes to cover the complete fuel combustion and exhaust process. This workshop will help you understand how all the parts of a small engine, working together, secure a functional machine.

For more information, contact Roland Terrell at 804-892-4612 or rterrell@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, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Farm Equipment Safety & Maintenance Basics

Thursday, January 18, 2024 · 6–9 pm
Southwest VA Agricultural Research & Extension Center 12326 VPI Farm Rd, Glade Spring, VA 24340

This event is canceled, due to bad weather. 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.

Chestnuts 101

Tuesday, October 24, 2023 · 10 am–noon 

Virginia Chestnuts, 5990 Wheelers Cove Road, Shipman, VA

Virginia Chestnuts is a family owned and operated orchard with deep roots in Nelson County. Learn the basics of planning, production, processing, and marketing of Chinese chestnuts from the owner/operator of this farm. The workshop covers the last days of the harvest season of their 21 acres, and ideas about how chestnuts can function as a long-term cash crop and a mast source for livestock production.

For more information, contact Forrest Hobbs at 804-892-5910 or fhobbs@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.

Bringing Basic Solar Energy to Your Farm

Wednesday, October 11, 2023 · 2–4 pm 

Fredericksburg, Virginia

Solar energy can provide farmers with invaluable power options on the farm. It is convenient and inexpensive. Join Farmer Thomas Roberson as he discusses solar energy options in use on his small 10-acre farm. Learn about design basics, solar operations, and how he uses it for electric fencing, powering his well and cooling his high tunnels during the summer.

Space is limited to 20 participants.

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

Saturday, September 9, 2023 · 10 am–noon

VSU Agriculture Engineering Building, 101 Myster Macklin Street, Ettrick, VA

Come to this workshop and learn how to save time and money with best practices to maintain small engine farm equipment and keep it running year after year. The workshop will help you understand how a four-cycle small engine works, as well as common problems that occur and how to fix them. There will be some hands-on demonstrations, and we will also share some safety tips.

Space is limited to 20 participants.

For more information, contact James Gibson at 804-720-6826 or jegibson@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.

Hampton Community Gardens Tour

Saturday, September 9, 2023 · 8:30–10 am

Meet at 1296 Thomas Street, Hampton, VA

For many urban dwellers, garden space is at a premium. People that succeed in their personal efforts use a balcony or patio with containers or an indoor windowsill to satisfy their gardening needs, while others may have access to a rooftop or nearby designated space for rent or free use. Hampton has the perfect example of repurposing space to build their community. Currently, 3 separate sites with community gardens have over 25 5x10’ individual plots each, including a few that are ADA accessible. The gardens support collective participation in growing fruits, vegetable, and flowers, sharing labor and harvest for the community areas as well as each gardener’s individual plot. This tour will have docents to share ideas, information, and highlight unique qualities at each location. Guidelines, schedule and a map with addresses will be provided by email/text to registrants prior to beginning of the tour.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916, or email bdukes@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.

Plastic-Laying Demonstration

Wednesday, August 16, 2023 · 9 am–noon

This workshop has been canceled due to weather. For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916, or email bdukes@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.

Canceled—Plastic-Laying Demonstration

Monday, June 26, 2023 · 9 am–noon

Creekmore’s Place at Indian River, Virginia Beach, VA

Due to the weather, this workshop has been canceled.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916, or email bdukes@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.

Emergency Preparedness

Thursday, May 25, 2023 · 4–6 pm

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

Being prepared in an emergency is essential to surviving natural and man-made disasters. Representatives from Chesterfield Emergency Management will explain what items are needed for emergency situations, including how to get a kit, make a plan and stay informed. Crop and animal protection options during disasters will be reviewed by the Chesterfield environmental educator. Chesterfield County firefighters and first responders will also be available to share tips on how to prevent fires around the home and farmstead.

For more information, contact James Gibson at 804-720-6826 or jegibson@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.