June settles into the full pace of the growing season, bringing longer days, warmer temperatures, and the steady demands of summer production. Fields begin to fill out, gardens push into peak growth, and producers turn their attention toward managing soil health, livestock, water, pests, and market readiness as seasonal pressures intensify. It is a month shaped by both opportunity and adaptation, where preparation and practical knowledge play an important role in maintaining resilient operations. This newsblast highlights workshops, field days, educational programs, and community events designed to support farmers, landowners, and growers as they move through one of the busiest and most productive times of the year.
Announcements
The Flower Hour Podcast
The first episode of a new extension podcast, The Flower Hour with Erin Small, is now available for streaming on YouTube and Spotify. This podcast is dedicated to connecting flower growers and the resources they need to thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned cut-flower farmer, a backyard grower, or just getting started, this is a space where growers can learn, share experiences, and build community. Each episode brings you conversations with farmers, researchers, and Extension specialists who work in the field and garden every day. You’ll explore practical tips, research-based insights, and real stories from growers across the region. Check out the latest Flower Hour episodes on their Spotify: The Flower Hour with Erin Small and YouTube Channel: The Flower Hour
Support Local Food Access at the Fauquier Education Farm 5K & Fun Run
Support the Fauquier Education Farm by participating in the annual Ed Farm 5K & Fun Run fundraiser starting at 9 AM, Saturday, June 13th. This community event invites runners and walkers to enjoy a scenic trail course that winds through the farm’s surrounding landscape while helping fund educational programming, volunteer initiatives, and fresh food production efforts that benefit local families. Participants can choose between the full 5K course and the shorter Fun Run, making the event accessible to all experience levels. Proceeds directly support the ongoing operations and outreach efforts of the Fauquier Education Farm. Use coupon code EFV2026 at checkout for your $5.00 discount.
Feedback Opportunity: Sensory Evaluation Toolkit for Virginia Wine and Cider Producers
Virginia Tech researchers are seeking feedback from Virginia wine and cider producers on a new, free online toolkit designed to help producers conduct sensory evaluation exercises. Participants will review the toolkit and complete a short survey to help improve the final resource for producers across the state. Participation is a self-paced program and includes watching short training videos, exploring the online tool, and completing a survey. The full process should take about 30 minutes, with the survey taking less than 10 minutes. Producers may also participate through an in-person walkthrough at the Winchester AREC. Anyone involved in the Virginia wine and/or cider industries who is at least 18 years old is eligible to participate. For more information, contact Dr. Alexis Hamilton at ahamilton@vt.edu or 540-231-1892.
Series
2026 Northern Piedmont Beginning Farmer Program (Warrenton, VA)
The 2026 Northern Piedmont Beginning Farmer Program: An Introduction to Getting Your Hands Dirty offers a six‑week foundation for new growers who want to build confidence in the core skills of successful gardening and small‑scale production. Meeting Monday evenings at the Fauquier Education Farm, the series covers essential topics such as soil science, amendments, crop selection, pest and weed management, and basic infrastructure needs. The course is “a six-week classroom lecture course on some of the basic techniques and concepts that can help you be a better gardener,” giving participants a structured, supportive place to start. For more information, contact Jim Hankins at fauquieredfarm@gmail.com or (540) 336-4338.
Landowner Retreats
Beginning Retreats provide information on hardwood and pine forest management, legacy planning, management planning, and more. Beyond the Basics Retreats take a deep dive into a specific forest management topic. All Retreats combine classroom instruction, field trips, and hands-on activities. Registration opens 10 weeks before events.
· September 11-12: Southeast Virginia Beginning Woodland Owner Retreat (Providence Forge, VA)
Regenerative Practices and Permaculture at Home (Galax, VA)
Located at the Permaculture Garden at Church of the Good Shepherd, located at 9441 Grayson Parkway, Galax, VA 24333. Workshops are free, but registration is required. Please email permaculture@graysonlandcare.org to register or for more information.
· June 13, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Part Two – Growing Abundant Gardens: Learn about permaculture methods for building a food forest, planning fruit tree guilds, and using water with swales and rainwater catchment systems.
· July 11, 1:00 – 4:00 PM: Part Three – Homesteading and Herbal Medicine: Design your homestead for abundance and discover how to utilize your forest and garden for herbal medicines.
360 Cut Flower Discussion Group (Charlotte Court House, VA)
The 360 Cut Flower Discussion Group is a seasonal series designed to connect growers and build skills from field to vase through farm tours, hands-on workshops, and interactive field days. Events will run monthly through September 2026, offering opportunities to learn, share, and grow alongside fellow flower producers. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding your operation, this group provides practical knowledge and community support. The upcoming dates in this series are: June 18, July 23, August 20, and September 25. For more information or to register, contact Erin Small at (434) 392-0300, erins96@vt.edu.
4 the Soil Highlights
S6 – E9: Moving Agriculture Forward with Kim Melton of the Red River Basin Commission, Pt. I
Kim Melton, soil health coordinator for the Red River Basin Commission, joins Mary, Eric, and Jeff to discuss how soil health education and collaboration are helping move agriculture forward across the Red River Valley region. Spanning three states, one province, and two countries, Kim’s work focuses on bringing together farmers, scientists, and conservation partners to strengthen soil stewardship and agricultural resilience. The episode highlights how keeping soil on the land through conservation-minded practices supports both productive farms and healthier ecosystems.
S6 – E10: Cover Crops, Wind Erosion, and Snirt with Kim Melton of the Red River Basin Commission, Pt. II
Kim Melton, soil health coordinator for the Red River Basin Commission, joins the 4 the Soil team to discuss the ongoing challenges of wind erosion and soil loss across the Red River Basin. In this episode, Kim explains how cover crops, crop rotations, and maintaining soil organic matter help protect fields from erosion while improving moisture retention and long-term resilience. The conversation also introduces the concept of “snirt”; snow mixed with soil blown from exposed fields and highlights the importance of keeping soils covered year-round. Tune in to learn more about practical strategies that help farmers build healthier, more resilient soils from the ground up.
4 the Soil Blog Check out the latest 4 the Soil blog!
June
June 1, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Small Ruminant Land Management as a Path to Native Forest Restoration (Radiant, VA)
Kathryn and Neil Hughes own and operate a 10-acre forest farm in Madison County, VA, where they have been reforesting traditional farmland in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains since 2019. Their farming system centers on using animals to balance land management needs with small-scale farming imperatives. They grow, sell native plants, and also breed award-winning dairy goats – both of which they sell through their website. Tour topics will cover native plant production, NRCS cost-share projects, management of conservation areas, and lessons learned in the management of pastured poultry and small ruminants. This event will include a walking tour of their high tunnel, native plant nursery (both woody and herbaceous species), their conserved riparian buffer and wetland, an American Chestnut planting, an overview of their grazing paddocks, and an optional hands-on activity after lunch. Contact: asd@asdevelop.org
June 1, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Agroforestry Farm Tour Series 2026: Goat Silvopasture with Kathryn Hughes of Adaptive Life Farm (Madison County, VA)
Join Appalachian Sustainable Development for a farm tour exploring how small ruminant land management can support native forest restoration and regenerative agriculture. Kathryn and Neil Hughes of Adaptive Life Farm will share how they use goats and other livestock to balance conservation goals with small-scale farming systems on their 10-acre forest farm in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Participants will tour native plant nurseries, grazing paddocks, riparian buffer areas, wetlands, and an American Chestnut planting while learning about NRCS cost-share projects, conservation management, and lessons from working with pastured poultry and dairy goats. An optional hands-on activity will follow lunch. This free event is supported in partnership with Friends of the Rappahannock, and registration is required due to limited capacity. For more information, contact Appalachian Sustainable Development at asd@asdevelop.org
June 1, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: DIY Small Acreage Woodlots (Courtland, VA)
Many Virginia landowners manage small parcels that include wooded areas, but hiring contractors for every management task is not always practical or affordable. This workshop will introduce simple, hands-on woodlot management activities that landowners can do themselves while also highlighting compatible practices and common issues to avoid. Participants will gain practical ideas for caring for small woodlots through stewardship, recreation, and sweat equity. For more information, contact Garry Banks at (804) 760-3615 or gbanks@vsu.edu
June 1 – August 7: Online Woodland Options for Landowners Short Course (Virtual)
This 10-week self-paced online course introduces landowners to the fundamentals of forest management and woodland stewardship. Participants will learn about forest planning, woodland management practices, and natural resource conservation while working alongside professional mentors. Upon completion, attendees will have the opportunity to develop a draft forest management plan and participate in an optional hands-on field trip. Registration fee: $55 per family, including educational materials and field trip access.
June 2, 9:00 – 11:00 AM: From Registration to Revenue: USDA Programs, NRCS Conservation Contracts, and the Path to Market for Urban Producers (Virtual)
Learn how to register with USDA, secure NRCS conservation contracts, and position your operation for premium market sales. Using a live DMV urban farm as a working example, this workshop will guide participants through Soil Health Management Plans, conservation practices, cost-share opportunities, and pathways from paperwork to profit. For more information, contact Alan Diggs at (804) 704-5800 or akdiggs@vsu.edu
June 2, 2:00 – 3:00 PM: Grant Writing for Small and Beginning Farmers (Virtual)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension and the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program for a webinar focused on grant writing strategies for small and beginning farmers. Presented by Marian Dalke, the session will cover practical tips for identifying and applying for grant opportunities offered through federal and state agencies, foundations, and agricultural support organizations. Participants will learn how grants can help strengthen farm operations, support new projects, and improve long-term farm sustainability. For more information, contact Katie Trozzo at ketrozzo@vt.edu
June 2, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Bringing Basic Solar Energy To Your Farm (Fredericksburg, VA)
Join Farmer Thomas Roberson for a practical discussion on solar energy applications for small farms. Participants will learn about solar design basics, day-to-day operations, and how solar systems can support electric fencing, wells, and high tunnel cooling. This workshop highlights affordable and convenient energy options that can strengthen farm efficiency and resilience. For more information, contact Michael Carter Sr at (804) 481-1163 or mcarter@vsu.edu
June 3, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Electric Fence-Building (Mount Jackson, VA)
Spend the day learning electric fence installation with Gallagher Electric Fencing and Madison Wood. This free, hands-on workshop will guide participants through the process of installing electric fencing from start to finish while offering opportunities to gain practical experience and discuss fencing solutions for farm operations directly with industry representatives. Sponsored by Gallagher Electric Fencing and Madison Wood. For more information, contact Brent Noell at (804) 892-0140 or bnoell@vsu.edu
June 3, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Bethel Food Forest Farm Tour (Cumberland, VA)
Tour Bethel Food Forest Farm and learn more about regenerative growing practices for edible crops. Farmer Lucia Lopes grows microgreens, herbs, and edible flowers for local markets and is developing a food forest focused on future organic fruit production. This event offers participants a closer look at diversified production systems and regenerative agriculture in practice. For more information, contact Marilyn Estes at (804) 481-0485 or mestes@vsu.edu
June 3, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Berry Field Day (Virginia Beach, VA)
Join Hampton Roads AREC for a guided field walk and educational presentations focused on berry production, management, and research trials. Participants will explore topics including row covers, garlic-strawberry intercropping, blackberry taste testing, preplant nitrogen rates, pest management, berry physiology, biopesticides, agroclimatic tools, and berry health benefits. The event will also showcase a variety of berry cultivars currently under evaluation while offering opportunities to learn directly from researchers, Extension specialists, and industry experts. Free admission. Food will be available for purchase from on-site local food trucks. RSVP by May 30, 2026. For more information, contact jsamtani@vt.edu
June 3, 5:30 – 7:00 PM: Understanding Cottage Law in Virginia (Bedford, VA)
Do you make food products from home or operate under Virginia’s Cottage Food Law? Join Food and Beverage Advisor Maria Niechwiadowicz for an informative session covering upcoming changes to Virginia’s Cottage Food Law taking effect this July. Participants will learn about updated compliance requirements, home-based food production regulations, and practical next steps for expanding food businesses beyond the home kitchen. Snacks will be provided. Hosted by the Virginia SBDC in partnership with Bedford County Economic Development and the Greater Roanoke & NRV SBDC. Call (434) -845-5966 or contact SKeener@lynchburgregion.org
June 3, 6:00 – 9:00 PM: Backyard Composting (Stuart, VA)
Learn how to turn food scraps and yard waste into valuable compost for gardens, landscapes, and houseplants. This workshop will explore the “layering effect” of composting while discussing the benefits of improved soil health, water retention, waste reduction, and methane reduction. Participants will also learn practical methods for creating and using compost with minimal effort at home or on the farm. For more information, contact Brent Noell at (804) 892-0140 or bnoell@vsu.edu
June 3, 7:00 PM: Emergency Drought Management Webinar – Part II (Virtual)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association for the second installment of the Emergency Drought Management Webinar series. This virtual session will focus on practical summer strategies for managing cattle during drought conditions, addressing hay shortages, and understanding current cattle and drought outlooks. Participants will gain timely insights and management recommendations to help strengthen herd resilience and navigate challenging seasonal conditions. For more information, contact Emily Bowman at (540) 231-2792.
June 6, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: 4th Annual Dairy Day (Farmville, VA)
Bring the whole family to Prince Edward Extension’s 4th Annual Dairy Day at the Five County Fairgrounds in Farmville. This community-focused event will feature educational activities, hands-on learning opportunities, and family-friendly experiences centered around dairy production and agriculture. Designed for all ages, Dairy Day offers participants the chance to connect with local agricultural partners and learn more about the dairy industry in a fun, interactive environment. Registration is $5 per person. For more information, contact Erin Smith at erins96@vt.edu
June 8, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Risk Management (Courtland, VA)
Develop practical strategies to improve financial stability, reduce risk, and strengthen farm business management. Participants will also learn about USDA programs and receive technical assistance connecting them with legal, tax, and farm business services. Guest speaker SeRena M. Hill, Navigator Project Director with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, will join the session. For more information, contact Jimmy Maclin at (804) 731-6595 or jlmaclin@vsu.edu
June 8, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Shade Saves Lives (Petersburg, VA)
This workshop explores how tree planting and increased canopy coverage can help reduce heat and improve community resilience, especially in urban areas. Participants will engage in hands-on activities such as temperature mapping, tree canopy measurements, and identifying areas most affected by heat. Through group discussions and practical demonstrations, attendees will develop ideas and strategies for increasing shade and creating healthier, safer neighborhoods. Morning session: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Afternoon session: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
June 9, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Rain Garden Rescue (Petersburg, VA)
Explore soil restoration and composting through hands-on activities, GIS mapping, and community-based learning at VSU Randolph Farm. Participants will examine common urban soil challenges such as compaction and low organic matter while learning practical strategies to improve soil health, water retention, and ecosystem resilience. This workshop also highlights how composting and soil restoration practices can support sustainability efforts by reducing runoff, improving tree survival, and strengthening urban landscapes.
June 9, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Small Ruminant Webinar Series: Online Certification (Virtual)
Join this monthly webinar series focused on sheep and goat production and management. Designed for farmers, educators, and industry professionals, the series features expert speakers, practical production insights, and opportunities for participant discussion. Topics support the long-term success and sustainability of small ruminant operations.
June 10, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Herd Health and Forage Improvement for Animal Production (South Hill, VA)
June is an important time for livestock producers to focus on improving herd health, grazing efficiency, and forage management. This workshop will explore how forage quality and seasonal stress can affect animal performance, including weight gains, birth weights, and overall herd productivity. Participants will also learn practical strategies for reducing stress, improving forage utilization, and producing healthier, higher-quality livestock while increasing farm profitability. For more information, contact Tim Sexton at (804) 524-1028 or tsexton@vsu.edu
June 10, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Risk Management (Rapidan, VA)
Develop practical strategies to strengthen financial stability, improve loss prevention, and manage risk within your farm operation. Participants will learn how USDA programs can support long-term financial security while also receiving opportunities for one-on-one technical assistance related to farm business concerns, legal resources, tax planning, and business services. This workshop is designed to help producers build stronger and more resilient agricultural operations. For more information, contact Jimmy Maclin at (804) 731-6595 or jlmaclin@vsu.edu
June 11, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Basic Soil Fertility for Farmers (South Boston, VA)
June is an important time for planting crops and preparing soils for strong seasonal growth. This workshop will explore soil fertility fundamentals, including the 18 essential nutrients required for plant development and the common symptoms associated with nutrient deficiencies. Participants will also learn how nutrient needs change throughout different growth stages and how proper fertility management can improve crop performance and increase farm profitability. For more information, contact Tim Sexton at (804) 524-1028 or tsexton@vsu.edu
June 11, 12:00 – 1:00 PM: Summer Season Growing in High Tunnels: Improving Quality, Yield, and Profit (Virtual)
Summer growing conditions across Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic can bring significant challenges, including heat, drought, excess moisture, and fluctuating temperatures. Join Virginia State University horticulture specialist and high tunnel expert Dr. Sanjun Gu for a discussion on how high tunnels can help growers better manage summer production conditions. Participants will learn how controlling heat, light, and water can improve crop quality, increase yields, and strengthen overall farm profitability. For more information, contact Wayne Browning at (804) 760-3932 or wbrowning@vsu.edu
June 11, 4:00 – 6:00 PM: Practical Realities of Building a Regenerative Farm From the Ground Up (Westminster, MD)
Harden Family Farms invites visitors into a thriving 22‑acre USDA‑certified organic operation that’s steadily transforming into a model of regenerative, community‑rooted agriculture. During the event, participants will explore everything from soil‑building practices and biochar amendments to high‑tunnel vegetable production, value‑added herbal goods, and integrated livestock systems. The tour also highlights the farm’s pollinator plantings, diversified marketing outlets, and the restoration of a historic bank barn that now supports retail and artisan work. Contact: deb@futureharvest.org.
June 12, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Confident & Capable: Women Raising Cattle Workshop for Women Farmers (West River, MD)
Join this full‑day, hands‑on workshop designed to help women farmers build practical skills and confidence in low‑stress cattle handling. Hosted by SMADC in partnership with New Roots Farm, the event features expert instruction, interactive demonstrations, resource materials, and a locally prepared farm‑to‑table lunch. Participants will dive into essential topics—from humane handling and transport to cattle health, body‑scoring, and navigating liability—while learning directly from experienced women producers. For more information, contact the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission at info@smadc.com
June 15-16, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM: 100-Level Silvopasture Fundamentals (Stanardsville, VA)
Build a strong foundation in silvopasture with this two-day introductory training designed for natural resource professionals, producers, and educators. Participants will explore the principles of agroforestry and silvopasture through expert-led classroom sessions and hands-on field demonstrations, including site assessment, forage establishment, and integrating trees with livestock systems. This workshop blends technical instruction with real-world applications to equip attendees with practical tools for implementation. Questions? For more information, visit asdevelop.org/ATFNRP or contact Tabitha Bugg at tbugg@asdevelop.org
June 17, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM: 200-Level Silvopasture Design Intensive (Rapidan, VA)
Take your silvopasture knowledge to the next level with this advanced, one-day design intensive. Participants will engage in expert-led field instruction at Val Verde Farm, exploring real-world systems including tree selection, layout, and rotational grazing integration. Through guided site evaluations and collaborative design activities, attendees will develop practical silvopasture plans grounded in conservation and management objectives. This immersive training combines field application with technical design instruction to strengthen implementation skills. For more information, visit asdevelop.org/ATFNRP or contact Tabitha Bugg at tbugg@asdevelop.org
June 17, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: How to Correctly Sample Soil and How to Apply the Resulting Data (Ashland, VA)
Proper soil sampling is an important step in improving soil productivity and reducing unnecessary input costs. This workshop will teach participants how to correctly collect soil samples, interpret soil test results, and apply that information to improve crop performance and soil management decisions. Attendees will also learn how soil testing can optimize fertilizer and lime applications, increase yields, and reduce over-fertilization while saving money over time. For more information, contact James Gibson at (804) 720-6826 or jegibson@vsu.edu
June 17, 3:00 – 5:00 PM: VSU SFOP and USDA Information Update (Moneta, VA)
The VSU Small Farm Outreach Program will share information about upcoming events, services, and USDA resources during the new Moneta Farmers Market. Participants interested in becoming market vendors will have the opportunity to learn about market rules, marketing practices, and available support programs while connecting directly with VSU SFOP representatives. This event offers a valuable opportunity for growers and community members to ask questions and explore resources available to support small farm operations. For more information, contact Forrest Hobbs at (804) 892-5310 or fhobbs@vsu.edu
June 17, 4:00 – 6:00 PM: Intro to No-Till Drills and Native Forages (Location TBA)
September Farm, the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative, Alliance for the Shenandoah Valley, and VSU’s Small Farm Outreach Program are partnering for a pasture walk and demonstration focused on establishing warm-season grasses using no-till seed drills. Farmer Jay Hafner will demonstrate how to properly set up and use a no-till drill while also showcasing conservation best management practices currently in use at September Farm. Beginning in summer 2026, the seed drill will also be available for rent to farmers and landowners throughout the region. This event is supported through a grant from American Farmland Trust. Rain date: June 24. For more information, contact Marian Dalke at (540) 232-6010 or mdalke@vt.edu
June 17, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: ASD Veteran Coalition Meeting (Bristol, VA)
Military veterans involved or interested in agriculture are invited to join Appalachian Sustainable Development’s Veteran Coalition Meeting at Michael Waltrip Brewing in Bristol. Held every third Wednesday, these gatherings are designed to strengthen the veteran farming community through networking, resource sharing, and collaboration opportunities that support veteran-led agricultural operations. Attendees can connect with fellow veterans, learn more about ASD veteran programs and services, and enjoy free appetizers and soft drinks in a welcoming community setting. For more information, contact Appalachian Sustainable Development at asd@asdevelop.org
June 18, 9:00 – 11:00 AM: Compost Facility Tour & Workshop (Crimora, VA)
Take a guided tour of Black Bear Composting to learn how organic materials such as food scraps, yard trimmings, and clean waste wood are transformed into products that support healthier soils and reduced waste streams. Participants will hear about Black Bear Composting’s successful organics recycling operation and learn from Pedro Aponte of St. Isidore Homestead, who has worked with the facility for several years to improve soil health on his farm. This workshop offers practical insight into composting systems, soil improvement, and sustainable waste management practices. For more information, contact Marian Dalke at (540) 232-6010 or mdalke@vt.edu
June 22, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM: 2026 Procrastinators Commercial Pesticide Applicator Re-certification (Rapidan, VA)
Virginia Cooperative Extension will host the 2026 Procrastinators Commercial Pesticide Applicator Re-certification program at the VCE–Culpeper Carver Center in Rapidan, VA. This training offers recertification credits for multiple Virginia and Maryland pesticide applicator categories, including agricultural, ornamental, and core certification requirements. Participants will receive updated information and continuing education needed to maintain commercial pesticide applicator licenses while strengthening safe and effective pesticide management practices. Registration cost is $55. For more information, contact ashappling@vt.edu or call (540) 727-3435 ext. 355.
June 25, 6:00 – 7:30 PM: Savor the Flavor – American Lamb & Goat Meat (Virtual)
Join chef and lamb expert Nick Forrest for a discussion on selecting, preparing, and sourcing quality lamb and goat meat from local producers. As grilling season begins, participants will learn more about meat cuts, preparation techniques, and ways to connect with local farmers and markets. For more information, contact Amanda “Mandy” Fletcher at (804) 892-0108 or afletcher@vsu.edu
June 26, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM: VSU COA Small Farmer-Focused Field Day (Petersburg, VA)
Join Virginia State University Randolph Farm for a small farmer-focused field day featuring educational programming, networking opportunities, and demonstrations designed to support small and beginning producers across the region.
June 26, 12:15 PM: Fifteen Minutes in the Forest – After the Storm 2: Cleanup Safely (Virtual)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Fifteen Minutes in the Forest series for a short educational video focused on safely cleaning up storm-damaged woodlands and properties. Premiering on YouTube, this monthly series provides practical forestry and woodland management information for landowners and natural resource enthusiasts. Viewers can also explore more than 175 educational forestry videos available through the program’s YouTube channel.
June 26, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: The ABC’s of Farm Insurance (Petersburg, VA)
Many factors are involved in finding the right insurance coverage for your farming operation. It is usually highly customized, and can include insurance for buildings, such as barns; dwellings; livestock; seed; hay; tools and equipment. Mark Winn will give an overview and answer your questions about what coverage is best for you and your farm. For more information, contact Tammy Holler at (804) 895-9472 or tholler@vsu.edu
July
July 1, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Lavender Farm Tour (Victoria, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for a tour of the lavender fields and value-added operation at Red Fern Farm in Victoria, VA. Farm owner Katrina Wells will discuss lavender harvesting, processing techniques, and the development of value-added products sold through The Barn at Red Fern Farm. Participants will also hear from Tammy Holler, Nutrient Management Specialist, who will cover soil and nutrient requirements for successful lavender production. This tour offers growers and agricultural entrepreneurs an opportunity to learn more about specialty crop production and value-added farm enterprises. For more information, contact Marilyn Estes at (804) 481-0485 or mestes@vsu.edu
July 2, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Nutrient Management for Small Farmers (Ettrick, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for a workshop focused on nutrient management strategies for small farm operations. Participants will explore how weather variability and seasonal conditions influence nutrient management decisions, with special attention given to managing nitrogen and phosphorus for optimal crop growth while protecting surrounding environmental resources. This educational session will provide practical guidance for improving soil fertility, crop productivity, and environmental stewardship on small farms. For more information, contact Tim Sexton at tsexton@vsu.edu or (804) 524-1028.
July 3, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Dickenson County Farmers Market (Clintwood, VA)
Support local agriculture and connect with regional growers at the Dickenson County Farmers Market in Clintwood, VA. Held every Friday, the market brings together local farmers and producers offering fresh whole foods, handmade goods, and value-added products created within the mountain region. Supported by Virginia Cooperative Extension, the market provides an opportunity to strengthen local food systems while supporting small farms and community well-being through access to locally grown products and community engagement. For more information, contact Wayne Browning at wbrowning@vsu.edu or (804) 760-3932.
July 7, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Farm Service Agency & Crop Insurance Workshop (Verona, VA)
Join representatives from the Farm Service Agency and Southern Risk Management Education Services for a workshop focused on crop insurance and risk management tools for producers in the Southern Shenandoah Valley. Participants will learn about crop insurance basics, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, reporting deadlines, and practical risk management strategies designed for diversified and small-scale farm operations. The session will also highlight decision-making tools and available resources that can help producers strengthen long-term farm resilience and financial stability. For more information, contact Marian Dalke at mdalke@vt.edu or (540) 232-6010.
July 8, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Pine View Greenhouses Tour (Jarratt, VA)
Come with the Virginia Cooperative Extension for a visit to Pine View Greenhouses, a family-owned greenhouse operation in Jarratt, Virginia known for its wide selection of locally grown flowers, hanging baskets, vegetables, shrubs, tropical plants, and seasonal produce. Participants will learn more about greenhouse production, seasonal plant offerings, and the management practices that support successful specialty crop operations while exploring a business recognized for its quality products and customer service. For more information, contact Garry Banks at gbanks@vsu.edu or (804) 760-3615.
July 8, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Farm Service Agency & Crop Insurance Workshop (Woodstock, VA)
Join representatives from the Farm Service Agency and Southern Risk Management Education Services for a workshop focused on crop insurance and risk management resources for producers in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Participants will learn about crop insurance basics, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, reporting deadlines, and risk management strategies designed to support diversified and small-scale farm operations. The session will also provide practical tools and decision-making resources to help producers strengthen farm resilience and financial planning. For more information, contact Marian Dalke at mdalke@vt.edu or (540) 232-6010.
July 8-10: 2026 Virginia Beef Cattle University (Blacksburg, VA)
Virginia Beef Cattle University 2026 brings together producers from across the region for three days of intensive, future‑focused learning in herd health, nutrition, marketing, reproduction, precision technologies, and meat science. Through hands‑on workshops, expert‑led breakout sessions, and dedicated meeting spaces, participants gain practical skills they can immediately apply to strengthen and grow their operations. The event also offers valuable networking with industry partners and a signature evening gathering featuring a locally prepared prime rib dinner. With its all‑inclusive registration and robust educational program, BCU 2026 is designed to fuel producer success and elevate the next generation of beef cattle leadership.
July 9, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Raising Chickens on Your Farm (Petersburg, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension at VSU Randolph Farm for a workshop focused on raising chickens for profitable egg production on small farms. Participants will learn step-by-step management practices for developing a successful poultry operation, including breed selection, production considerations, and strategies for meeting different market demands through value-added egg production. This session is designed to help producers better understand how poultry enterprises can contribute to diversified and sustainable farm income. For more information, contact Grace Summers at gsummers@vsu.edu or (804) 712-0093.
July 15, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: ASD Veteran Coalition Meeting (Bristol, VA)
Military veterans involved or interested in agriculture are invited to attend Appalachian Sustainable Development’s Veteran Coalition Meeting at Michael Waltrip Brewing in Bristol. Held every third Wednesday, these gatherings are designed to strengthen the veteran farming community through networking, practical resource sharing, and collaboration opportunities that support veteran-led agricultural operations. Attendees can connect with fellow veterans, learn more about ASD programs and services, and enjoy free appetizers and soft drinks in a welcoming community environment. For more information, contact Appalachian Sustainable Development at asd@asdevelop.org
Further Out
August 1, 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM: Food Preservation Conference (Wytheville, VA)
Food preservation methods such as canning, fermentation, dehydration, and freezing are great ways to keep food fresh throughout the year! Make sure that you are doing it safely by attending Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Food Preservation Conference on August 1st, 2026, at the Wytheville Meeting Center. Pick from over 15 sessions, from beginning water bath canning to curing a ham! The cost of this event is $60, which includes lunch and access to pick from 15 high-quality educational sessions.
August 8: Ed Farm Festival (Warrenton, VA)
Celebrate the Fauquier Education Farm during this free community event featuring educational activities, farm experiences, and opportunities to connect with local agriculture. Vendor information will be announced closer to the event date.
August 19, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: ASD Veteran Coalition Meeting (Bristol, VA)
Military veterans involved or interested in agriculture are invited to attend Appalachian Sustainable Development’s Veteran Coalition Meeting at Michael Waltrip Brewing in Bristol. Held every third Wednesday, these gatherings are designed to strengthen the veteran farming community through networking, practical resource sharing, and collaboration opportunities that support veteran-led agricultural operations. Attendees can connect with fellow veterans, learn more about ASD programs and services, and enjoy free appetizers and soft drinks in a welcoming community environment. For more information, contact Appalachian Sustainable Development at asd@asdevelop.org
August 20, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Naturally Grounded: Urban Ag & Cash Crops (Petersburg, VA)
This workshop introduces urban agriculture and agroforestry as strategies for economic development and sustainability. Participants will explore food systems, crop planning, and the use of non-timber forest products. Teaching urban agriculture through hands-on, GIS-integrated, and community-based methods involves transforming vacant lots into productive green spaces, using data to optimize crop yields, and engaging local stakeholders. Effective programs utilize working farms as classrooms, apply spatial analysis to identify viable land, and focus on high-value cash crops such as microgreens, culinary herbs, and gourmet mushrooms.
September 12: Feast from the Field (Warrenton, VA)
The Fauquier Education Farm’s annual fundraiser banquet, hosted by Moriah Farm, will feature dinner, beverages, live music, raffles, auctions, and a community celebration in support of local food access and agricultural education programs.