Shenandoah Valley Small Farm Summit

Thursday, March 6, 2025 • 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

261 Mount Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22802

Join small farmers from throughout the Shenandoah Valley for a luncheon to learn about Virginia State University's Small Farm Outreach Program. This participatory session offers producers a chance to discuss issues, opportunities and resources available  in the region. Input from the Small Farm Summit will inform future SFOP programming in the Valley. Spanish interpretation will be provided.

For more information, contact Marian Dalke at 540-232-6010 or mdalke@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 Farm Orientation

Wednesday, February 19, 2025 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Workshop

This two-hour Zoom course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or Derrick Gooden at 804-586-5352 or 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, 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.

Grant Writing for Farmers

Wednesday, February 12, 2025 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Zoom Event

Build confidence in applying for grants by joining farmer Anita Roberson of Botanical Bites & Provisional, LLC, as she shares basic grant writing information. Anita will speak about what is needed to assist farmers in receiving multiple grant awards. She will share information on planning, developing budgets and understanding grant scoring criteria. She will also share some unique tips and talk about her experience as a grant reviewer.

Space is limited to 30 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, 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.

Tax Preparation for Farmers

Thursday, February 6, 2025 • 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

118 East Danville St, South Hill, VA 23970

Even if you hire an accountant to assist with filing your farm taxes, there is important information that you need to know as a farmer. Darrell Tennie, the founder and CEO of the Tennie Group, LLC, a tax and accounting firm located in Raleigh, North Carolina, will be leading this workshop. 

This workshop will cover the following topics:

• New tax laws and changes.

• Completing Schedule F.

• Recordkeeping.

• Reporting business expenses & deductions.

• Managing enterprise sales.

• Social security management.

• Managing wages.

• Working with nonprofits.

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.

Fruit Tree Pruning for Beginners

Thursday, January 23, 2025 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

15267 James Madison Pkwy, King George, VA 22485

Good pruning technique can increase the potential for quality fruit. Pruning is often neglected either due to a lack of skill or fear that improper pruning could lead to the injury or death of a tree. Pruning reduces overall tree size, improves structural strength, increases fruit production and improves the quality of fruit. Come and join us for this hands-on demonstration on pruning fruit trees for the beginner. Please feel free to bring any pruning tools that you may have for this workshop.

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, 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 Farm Orientation

Tuesday, January 21, 2025 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Zoom Event

This two-hour Zoom course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or Derrick Gooden at 804-586-5352 or 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, 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 Number 101 & 102

Wednesday, December 18, 2024 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Zoom Event

Did you know having a farm number is an essential first step in applying for most USDA funding? Are you wondering why a farm number is important, how it can help you achieve your goals of farm profitability, and how to obtain one? Then be sure to attend this online interactive workshop!

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. 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 Lot Forestry Management

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

Diversifying Streams of Revenue

This event has been postponed until 2025. Please check the calendar for the new date.

Zoom Event: As farming expands from cows, plows, and sows, listen to Michael Carter Jr. of Carter Farms and Africulture as he talks about how to increase revenue through unconventional farm products and the use of soft skills. Winter months should not mean a decline in revenue. Let's explore ways that farmers can increase their revenue.

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.

Institutionalizing DEIA

This event has been cancelled. Please view our calendar to find more events.

f 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.

Passing the Baton: Preparing Your Farm Operation for the Next Generation of Land Stewards

Monday, November 25, 2024 • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Virtual Zoom Event

Join Michael Carter Jr. of Carter Farms and Africulture as we discuss who's got next on your farm. This will assist you and your family or loved ones to have this pertinent and necessary discussion this holiday season. We will look at strategies of engaging younger generations in having and sustaining interests in agricultural operations as well as establish plans for farm transitions, how to properly prepare for the inevitable as well as building on to and sustaining your farm legacy.

This will be an interactive virtual workshop, please come with your questions as we work together to ensure Virginia has a vibrant local agriculture scene into the future.

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.

Carbon Farming and Monitoring WOrkshop

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Virtual Zoom Event

Are you using climate smart practices and looking for a way to measure the impact on your soil, operation and community? Join Carter Farms, Africulture and American Climate Partners as we explain USDA National Resource Conservation Services (NRCS) CEMA 221 latest programs. Let us answer your questions and share how these measuring tools will benefit your farming operation.

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.

Small Farm Orientation

Tuessday, November 19, 2024 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Zoom Event

This two-hour Zoom course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or Derrick Gooden at 804-586-5352 or 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, 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.

Farmer Wholesale Readiness

Wednesday, October 30, 2024 • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Zoom Event

Online Event: Are you ready to scale up your farming operation? Are you seeking large markets, with larger more consistent volume? Are you ready to sell your produce, proteins or value added products at the wholesale level? Join Michael Carter Jr. or Carter Farms and Africulture as we discuss what your markets require and what your farming operation may need to get there next season.

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.

Blueberry Production Workshop

Thursday, October 24, 2024 · 1 pm– 3 pm

361 Spirit Ridge Lane, Afton, VA 22920

Small-scale production of blueberries and small fruits has its challenges with the selection, production, and marketing.  Many varieties of blueberries are available for the Southeastern US and information on how varieties perform locally is available and will be discussed by individuals that have been in the small fruit and blueberry business for around 20 years.  Michael McConkey and Edible Landscaping has a wealth of information that needs to be considered before the production of blueberries begins.

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, 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.

Nutrient Management

Tuesday, October 22, 2024 · 10 am– 12 pm

Zoom

Zoom Event: Did you know you can notarize a document using secure audio-video technology? Yes, you can notarize a document securely. This process is known as remote online notarization (RON). RON allows you to appear before before a notary public via secure audio-technology and have your document notarized electronically. Let's discuss the process and how you can use RON to streamline documents that require notarization, whether for your business or personally.

Space is limited to 30 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, 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.

Youth and Beginning Agricultural WOrkers Safety Training

Thursday, October 17, 2024 • 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Zoom Event and Sussex County, VA

Youth on your farm operation? Entry level agricultural production workers? Through this workshop, farmers will learn how to mitigate labor and disability/injury risks, how to determine and conduct injury risk assessments, and ensure the safety and health of youth and beginning staff working in agriculture. This program also offers opportunity for youth to gain skills and trades training in the safe operation of farm equipment.

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. 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 Number

Wednesday, October 16, 2024 • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Zoom Event

Did you know having a farm number is an essential first step in applying for most USDA funding? Are you wondering why a farm number is important, how it can help you achieve your goals of farm profitability, and how to obtain one? Then be sure to attend this online interactive workshop!

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. 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 Farm Orientation

Tuesday, October 15, 2024 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Zoom Event

This two-hour Zoom course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or Derrick Gooden at 804-586-5352 or 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, 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.

Drought Designation Opportunities

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

growing garlic for the beginner

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

Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Certification Program

Application Deadline:

Friday, September 27, 2024 • 5 pm

Program runs: Nov 2024 - Nov 2025

In-person kickoff: Nov 6, 2024, Tidewater, VA

Program covers agribusiness, financial management, whole farm planning, and more.

$50 fee, scholarships available.

For more info contact: Katie Trozzo at ketrozzo@vt.edu, 540-232-2233.

Fundamentals of Planting and Growing Garlic

Thursday, September 26, 2024 · 10 am–noon 

Woodford, Virginia

Garlic is a wonderful crop. It’s easy to grow with almost no pest problems. It can be grown either in the ground or in a raised bed. October is the most popular month to plant garlic, but depending on where you live, you could plant sooner or later. Late September and October are the best times to plant garlic in the northern Piedmont. It should be done at least two weeks before the first frost, and must be done before the ground freezes. This workshop will teach you the proper way to plant garlic, how to prepare the ground, and properly care for it during the growing season.

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.

Small Farm Orientation

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 • 6–8 pm

Zoom Event OR 122 State Rte T 1101, Independence, VA

This two-hour course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual.

You may attend this course either online or at the G.A.T.E. Center, 122 State Rte T 1101, Independence, VA. Full details sent after registration.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or Derrick Gooden at 804-586-5352 or 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, 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.

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.

Small Farm Orientation

Tuesday, August 20, 2024 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Zoom Event

This two-hour Zoom course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or Derrick Gooden at 804-586-5352 or 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, 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.

Virtual Farm Tour

Monday, August 12, 2024 · 9–10 am

Zoom Event

Atlanta, Georgia, served as the kickoff meeting site for the USDA Farm Service’s National Urban Agriculture (NUag) Initiative, along with sixteen other cities nationwide in October 2023. An additional ten cities have recently been added to this pilot program. Come take a virtual tour to see what strides are being made at the Historic Westside Gardens with your host, Quinton “Farmer Qu” Arnold. He will explain their farming methods, crops grown, volunteerism, and how his organization supports the local community. A demonstration on how to construct a raised bed will take place, as well as their new venture into hydroponics.

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, 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.

Small Farm Orientation

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Zoom Event

This two-hour Zoom course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Derrick Gooden, regional program assistants for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu, or Derrick Gooden at 804-586-5352 or 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, 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.