Events

This interactive workshop will include holistic wellness strategies for farmers with emphasis on digital ag technologies' ability to contribute to their economic, physical, and mental wellness. Dr. Abhilash Chandel will present and assist farmers in the utilization of his recent development of the intuitive Agroclimate Viewer and Planner App - a digital tool free of costs to farmers that can forecast weather for 16 days, determine soil pH, and perform a host of other functions ultimately leading to cost savings, climate mitigation, improved cropland/land management, as well as zero to minimal waste. 

For more information, contact Tabitha Bugg at tbugg@vsu.edu or Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 / bdukes@vsu.edu.

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 Roland Terrell at 804-892-4612, or rterrell@vsu.edu.

Tomato plant grafting is a helpful method for improving yields and managing soil diseases for both high tunnel and field production of tomatoes.  Successful grafting requires a high degree of skill and attention to details to have consistent results.  Dan Gagnon of Broadfork Farm has combed the information available in academic and online setting and identified the need for a system to increase the success rate of growers grafting tomato plants on their farm.  This presentation uses slides and video from grafting done at Broadfork Farm.  Participants will have the opportunity to have hands on practice grafting experience while handling the tools and materials required for both grafting and healing or successful tomato grafting.

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

Are you a beginning farmer looking for financing options to purchase farm land or equipment ? Colonial Farm Credit is a great choice. They have been providing financing and expertise on land and equipment purchases for more than 100 years. Dwight Dean and Sara Meadows will walk you through the process of applying for a loan to begin your farming operation.

For more information, contact Marilyn Estes at 804-481-0485 or mestes@vsu.edu.

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.

**Bus leaves Randolph Farm at 6:30 AM**

Join us for this trip to the Wilson County Fairgrounds  (2331 US-301, Wilson, NC 27893) for the 2nd Annual ENCFC Agricultural Expo, a one-day event focused on advancing sustainable farming in Eastern North Carolina. With a spotlight on soil health, year-round growing, and building farm resilience and productivity, this expo will feature hands-on sessions and expert insights into key topics such as animal care, value-added crops, and farmer resources. Space is limited to just 55 participants, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting day of learning and connection.