COVER CROPS FOR SMALL FARMERS, 10/11, WARREN
Cover crops are planted not for harvest, but for the purpose of soil improvement, pest management, and more. Using cover crops effectively can have a dramatic effect on productivity. On Thursday October 11th Paul McKenzie (Ag Extension Agent) will conduct a seminar entitled “Cover Crops for Small Farmers”. He will discuss the various plants that can be used as cover crops, their benefits, and how to manage them for best results. The program will also be of interest to hobby gardeners and market gardeners. The seminar will take place at 6:30 pm at the Warren County Extension Center, 158 Rafters Lane in Warrenton. There is no charge, but registration is requested by calling 252-257-3640, or via e-mail at paul_mckenzie@ncsu.edu.
FROM SEEDLING TO SALE: GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR TIMBER, 10/18, VANCE
Do you own a few acres of timber, but are unsure how to make the most of it? Paul McKenzie, Ag Extension Agent, will conduct a seminar on the topic on Thursday, October 18 at 6:30 pm. McKenzie will explain how to “Get the Most from Your Timber, From Seedling to Sale”. He will cover the basics of developing a plan, various timber improvement activities, potential cost-share programs, and how to prepare for a sale. The topic will be of interest to anyone who owns from ten to a thousand acres of trees! The program will be held at the Vance County Extension Center, 305 Young St. in Henderson. There is no charge, but registration is required by calling 252-438-8188 or via e-mail at paul_mckenzie@ncsu.edu.
PEACH ORCHARD TOUR, 10/22, WARREN (NEAR MACON)
On Monday October 22nd, local growers will have a unique opportunity to tour a local peach farm! The Hight Family has developed a successful small-scale peach operation focused on local sales. Come out and learn what it takes to raise peaches, from seedling to harvest. Learn about variety selection, pruning, pest management, irrigation and more. The Hight Peach Farm is a great example of what it takes to develop a small-scale farm enterprise that can generate supplemental income. The tour will start at 3:30 pm. There is no charge, but registration is required by October 18th. You may do so via phone at 252-257-3640 or e-mail at paul_mckenzie@ncsu.edu. The rain date is October 25th.
KERR-TAR BEEKEEPER CLUB, 10/8, VANCE
Are you a local beekeeper who would like to learn more? Have you ever thought about keeping bees, but didn’t know where to start? Then the Kerr-Tar Beekeeper Club is the place for you! The next meeting will be held on Monday, October 8th, 7 pm at the Vance County Extension Center. All are welcome to attend, regardless of experience or expertise! For more information, contact Wayne_Rowland@ncsu.edu or call 252-438-8188.
SMART PHONES FOR FARMERS, 11/30, WARREN
Have you ever considered buying a smart phone, but were overwhelmed by the choices? Or you have one but would like to know more about its capabilities? Can a smart phone be a valuable tool in your farming operation? Let’s explore these questions on November 30, 10 am to noon at the Warren County Extension Center. I’ll share information on choosing a smartphone, choosing a carrier, downloading apps, connecting to the web, using it for e-mail, and more. No cost, but registration required (paul_mckenzie@ncsul.edu or 257-3640 or 438-8188). Please let me know of your interest, or if another time would suit better.
MORE EVENTS (Details coming soon!):
Farm-City Breakfast, 11/16, Vance
Preserving Farmland via Voluntary Agricultural Districts, 11/15, Vance
Food-Safety for Produce Farmers, including intro. to GAP certification, Jan 17, Oxford
Multi-class series on developing a small-scale enterprise, early 2012, Oxford
Mushroom Production, 11/1, Greensboro
A&T Field Day, 10/18, Greensboro and Reidsville