Are you looking for more information for your small farm? Well, these sessions are for you. Held Saturdays from 9am-12pm at the Talbot County Cooperative Extension Office these sessions are designed to provide more in-depth information for your farm enterprise.
These courses are open anyone interested in small farm production and pre-registration is required. Sessions cost $5 each to cover handouts and refreshments. For more information contact 410-822-1244 or sdill@umd.edu.
January 31, 2009 – THE WOODS IN YOUR BACKYARD: How to Create and Enhance Natural Areas Around Your Home
Small lots, such as the one you may own, are a big deal. The vast majority of landowners in Maryland have less than 10 acres. This land, wooded or not, is a vital resource for all. By enhancing or creating natural areas and woodland on your lot, you can enjoy recreation, aesthetics, and wildlife while providing environmental services like water filtering and carbon sequestration. If your lot connects to other lots, there’s ample opportunity to make an even bigger impact by getting neighbors involved! Owners of even just a few acres can make a positive difference in their environment through planning and implementing simple stewardship practices learned at The Woods In Your Backyard Workshop.
Instructor: Nevin Dawson, Forest Stewardship Educator, University of Maryland
February 28, 2009 – ORGANIC 101
Trying to decipher the NOP? Don’t understand OMRI? Never fear, we will walk you through the process of transitioning (jumping right in vs. intensive cover cropping), certification (why or why not?), pest management, soil improvement (manures, compost) and farm management (what to plant when, when to start transplants, do I need to hire help?) for organic vegetable production. A hands-on, interactive 3-hour program with resources.
Instructors: Laura K. Hunsberger, Extension Educator, University of Maryland
March 21, 2009 – BUSINESS PLANNING
Planning is essential to any business, no matter how large or small your inventory, payroll and bank account. To be successful a farm operation must know its current status and future plans. Having these plans mentally is not enough! Taking time to formulate thoughts, evaluate your business, devise a strategy, and anticipate possible problems will help your business be successful. This workshop will offer information and helpful tools, including a workbook and CD, to complete your farm business plan.