Snow date: February 23. This event is being offered in-person and on Zoom. In this session of our three-part series, we'll look at different types of benefits that farm owners can offer their employees beyond wages, and often instead of health insurance. It's important to know your employees and what matters most to them. That can […]
Snow date: February 27. Childcare and dinner provided with RSVP.Please join us at the Climate Cafe! MOFGA will be hosting a series of gatherings inviting farmers and farmworkers to connect over climate concerns, share adaptation strategies and strengthen our networks of support. Discussion will be informal and spontaneous, guided by participants' interests, with peer to […]
Join University of Maine Extension Maple Industry Educator Jason Lilley to learn everything you need to know about making your own maple syrup. We'll discuss identifying and tapping trees, collecting and boiling sap, filtering, grading, and canning syrup. Jason will focus on homestead-scale systems that require a limited initial investment in equipment. This webinar is […]
University of Idaho's Heritage Orchard Conference was established in 2019 with an in-person conference held at the Sandpoint Organic Agriculture Center. The conference attracted a diverse group of heritage tree fruit enthusiasts for a day of presentations ranging from heritage fruit exploration to apple identification. Since 2020, the conference has been organized as a free […]
Relying on unpaid or family labor on dairy farms is not a sustainable option in our rapidly changing job market. In the second installment of our three part dairy labor management series, we will hear from the farmers about what has worked on their farms and what they have done differently. The farmers will do their […]
This class is being offered on a sliding scale of $30-$60. This course is free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here. Learn to prune fruit trees to encourage vigorous growth, healthy fruit set and quality fruit yield. Collection and storage of scion wood […]
The Kennebec Soil and Water Conservation District Office will be hosting a small farm workshop for small farms interested in improving the water quality of China Lake. This workshop is geared towards small scale, “backyard” farms in the China Lake region who are interested in improving the health and sustainability of their natural resources. The talk […]
This three part forum series is supported by NOFA-VT and MOFGA. Our first session is focused on vegetable producers, our second session is focused on livestock producers, and our third session is focused on whole-farm water management planning across production types. Dynamic weather patterns brought about by a changing climate pose new challenges to producers throughout […]
*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here.Are there old, overgrown fruit trees on or near your property? Don’t give up on them! Join us for this pruning workshop focused on renovating mature or neglected fruit trees.This workshop is appropriate for those who have […]
In the regions where cereal grains originate, you’d be hard-pressed to find wild wheat without barley growing alongside it. This is hardly surprising — grain mixtures (i.e. maslins) can use resources more efficiently, better tolerate changing climates, and minimize the impact of pests or pathogens.For grain farmers wishing to transition to organic practices but unable […]
*This class is the first in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series. **Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program.Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in […]
This three part forum series is supported by NOFA-VT and MOFGA. Our first session is focused on vegetable producers, our second session is focused on livestock producers, and our third session is focused on whole-farm water management planning across production types. Join us for a discussion with Dr. Jaime Garzon focused on soil fertility in grasslands […]
*Postponed due to snow! Join us on 3/24 (Mt Desert), 3/30 (Hope), and 3/31 (Cumberland).*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here.Are there old, overgrown fruit trees on or near your property? Don’t give up on them! Join us for this pruning workshop focused […]
Gardeners and orchardists are invited to bring their seeds, scionwood and cuttings to share to this free community event. We will have over 150+ types of scionwood to share, including some from the MOFGA orchards! The day will also include custom grafting, speakers and demonstrations, and more. We look forward to seeing you there. For […]
Get yourself growing! Join Emily Springer of Meeting House Farm on March 26, 2024 from 4-5:30 p.m. for Grow Your Own Apothecary. This online workshop covers how plants have been used for centuries in home apothecaries and offers tips on how you can establish your own apothecary garden. Join us to learn how to grow […]
*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) community members. Taught by Mike Biltonen, this webinar is an introduction to the art and science of Holistic Integrated Pest Management (IPM) from a biodynamic perspective. We will discuss the basics of IPM in principle and practice, including the use of historical data, observations, […]
This three part forum series is supported by NOFA-VT and MOFGA. Our first session is focused on vegetable producers, our second session is focused on livestock producers, and our third session is focused on whole-farm water management planning across production types. Because of climate change, it can be more difficult than ever to plan for meeting […]
*Postponed due to snow! Join us on 3/30 (Hope).*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here.Are there old, overgrown fruit trees on or near your property? Don’t give up on them! Join us for this pruning workshop focused on renovating mature or neglected fruit […]
Piscataquis County Soil & Water Conservation District (PCSWCD) will be hosting an Apple Grafting Workshop on March 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with CJ Walke. CJ has worked with PCSWCD for 10 years and has an impressive background in orchard management and is MOFGA's Orchard Programs Manager. This event will be held at the […]
*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here. Are there old, overgrown fruit trees on or near your property? Don’t give up on them! Join us for this pruning workshop focused on renovating mature or neglected fruit trees. This workshop is appropriate for those […]
MOFGA is excited to hold our annual Grow Your Own Organic Garden class, this year in webinar format. Whether you're a beginning gardener or a seasoned gardener in need of new tips, you're welcome to join. Central topics include soil science, composting, and crop rotation.This webinar is taught by Caleb Goosen, Organic Crop & Conservation Specialist at […]
*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here. Learn how to reproduce your favorite apple tree varieties! Bench grafting is a very cost-effective way to create (graft) new small trees for planting. Participants will learn why and when to bench graft fruit trees, as well […]
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This is an informative, casual opportunity to connect and learn about sound breeding principles for many breeds and management styles. An approved analyzer from aAa Weeks will give a brief presentation on aAa Analysis and analyze the Wolfe's Neck Dairy herd. Different breeds and age groups will be present to provide a variety of examples. The analysis […]
Join MOFGA and environmental protection advocates from across the state for this Conservation Lobby Day, at the capitol in Augusta. Coordinated by the Environmental Priorities Coalition, this is an opportunity to speak directly to legislators about your concern for environmental, equity, and climate issues. MOFGA will hold a brief Zoom meeting on April 8, to […]
Increasingly employees entering the Maine job market are also in need of housing. Offering a housing option can help to keep a dairy farm competitive in the job market as well as increase the value of the overall real estate, and potentially, allow a diversification in one’s business model. Melissa Harvey, state equal opportunity officer […]
MOFGA's Climate Cafe is a series of in-person events that will take place around the state inviting farmers and farmworkers to connect over climate concerns, share adaptation strategies and strengthen our networks of support.This Cafe will take place at Beech Hill Farmstead. Moderated discussion will be informal and spontaneous, guided by participants' interests and with […]
This event is a fundraiser for the El Salvador Sistering Committee; co-sponsored by the Maine Grain Alliance.Pupusas — corn-based flatbreads stuffed with cheese, beans, meat or other ingredients — are a traditional and much-loved food in El Salvador. The word “pupusa” may derive from native Central American Nawat words meaning “fluffy,” “fluffy thing” or “puffy.” […]
*This is the second in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series. **Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program. Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in […]
For many of us, gardening is something that happens in small spaces. Raised beds can boast abundance, and are often a more accessible form of gardening for renters or folks with limited space. At the same time, they can also require a bit of advanced planning to get started! In this webinar, Dr. Mariam Taleb […]
Matt Dow of Sweetland Farm in Albion has worked extensively on land he purchased in 2017 to boost fertility and increase yields. Faced with challenging markets, and the costs of starting a dairy, Dow has worked to find cost-effective ways to achieve his land fertility goals. Please join us for a field walk and conversation […]
*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here. Mushrooms are a delicious addition to almost any garden, homestead, woodlot, or farm. In this workshop, learn how to select mushroom logs and varieties, with a specific focus on shiitakes; design an appropriate site for growing […]
This event is hosted by Meeting House Farm.Most medicinal herbs are grown in Europe or Asia Pacific which means that U.S. farmers are missing a HUGE opportunity to provide local herbal medicine to our community. Join us for "Adding Herbs to Your Crop Plan" on April 24 from 4-5:30 p.m. to learn which herbs grows […]
Join us to celebrate (belated) Earth Day with a spring cleanup at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity, Maine, on Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.We’ll spend time tidying the grounds to get ready for the upcoming growing season and events we'll be hosting. Tasks include raking, garden bed prep, working […]
*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here.Learn to topwork (graft) new disease-resistant, cider, dessert or heritage varieties onto your existing trees! Topworking is the type of grafting that is done when you have an established tree and you’d like it to produce a different […]
*Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members, as well as members of the MOFGA Journeyperson program. Join us on April 28th from 10am to 2pm for a vernal pool field day with Joe Roy, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife's Private Lands Wildlife Biologist! We will begin the day […]
We hope you'll join us for our next Gardening Q&A! Whether you've been gardening for decades or you're daydreaming about starting your first garden this year (or somewhere in between), these informal Zoom conversations are a chance to discuss whatever gardening topics are on your mind. Bring your questions for a casual conversation and a […]
Being able to diversify the genetics of your herd can be an important asset when working with cattle. However, the lack of contract artificial insemination technicians in Maine means that qualified breeders are often geographically out of reach for most people. Learning to perform artificial insemination can be a step in maintaining your farm’s biosecurity, […]
MOFGA's Climate Cafe is a series of in-person events that will take place around the state inviting farmers and farmworkers to connect over climate concerns, share adaptation strategies and strengthen our networks of support.This Cafe will take place at the Center for an Ecology-Based Economy. Moderated discussion will be informal and spontaneous, guided by participants' […]
*Update: this panel was originally hybrid but is now fully remote (on Zoom). Registrants will receive access to the Zoom link ahead of the event.* Join us for a panel presentation featuring wood bank leaders from around the state of Maine who will share their stories of organizing and running wood banks. Sharing similarities with food […]
*This is the third in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series. **Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program. Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in […]
Many conservationists, farmers, and backyard gardeners find themselves tasked with managing invasive, or introduced, species that outcompete native ones. Limiting the spread of such species, and revitalizing native plant populations, has been identified as a key solution for combatting biodiversity loss. Less widely known are the social aspects of how we manage and discuss invasive […]
Join us for a discussion on available financial incentives and assistance with the Maine Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service! Financials can be a large limiting factor to stewarding your land well. Luckily, there are resources available - whether you need a new bridge, have an understory of barberry, or simply need an updated forest […]
This meeting is being hosted by Meeting House Farm. In celebration of the arrival of spring we are happy to announce that our Seedling Sale is coming up May 17 and 18 from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Falmouth, Maine! During the sale, Emily Springer will also offer her popular "Grow Your Own Apothecary" class […]
*Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members, as well as individuals enrolled in MOFGA's Journeyperson program.Learn about assisted migration efforts at MOFGA's woodlot; strategies for growing nursery stock; planting new trees for assisted migration; as well as more broadly planning climate adaptation efforts. Plus, enjoy lunch with colleagues!REGISTER HEREOur […]
Join us for the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Farmworker May Days happening on May 19 (LGBTQ+ in Midcoast Maine) and May 26 (BIPOC in Southern Maine)! Over these days, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ farmworkers will build confidence in safety skills, get excited for the farm season and feel connected to identity based community. Workshops include power tool and tractor […]
*Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members, as well as members of the MOFGA Journeyperson program. In this session, Dr. Jay Wason and two of his current graduate students, Laura Pinover and Emily MacDonald, will discuss how their recent and ongoing research efforts are helping us understand how forest […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.Kickoff the season with a tour of a diversified vegetable farm to see various infrastructure and […]
Join us for the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Farmworker May Days happening on May 19 (LGBTQ+ in Midcoast Maine) and May 26 (BIPOC in Southern Maine)! Over these days, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ farmworkers will build confidence in safety skills, get excited for the farm season and feel connected to identity based community. Workshops include power tool and tractor […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.Knowing proper handling and first-aid techniques can save lots of money and grief when raising livestock […]
Come join us for an open, comfortable and facilitated space for parents who farm. Hear from others who know the juggle and the struggle. We will hear about things that have worked... and some epic fails. Division of labor will be a focus topic of the evening. How might roles shift year to year and […]
*Due to extenuating circumstances, this event has been cancelled. We hope to hold it next year! Please reach out to [email protected] for any questions.
*This event has been cancelled due to extenuating circumstances. For a previous iteration of this webinar on MOFGA's YouTube channel, click here.Questions? Concatct [email protected]
Learn safe chainsaw operation in these one-and-a-half-day courses. We’ll cover personal protective equipment (PPE) and chainsaw selection, and practice safe handling and open-face bore cutting techniques with instructor supervision. Designed for beginners.REGISTER HERELearn more about MOFGA's chainsaw courses here!$240 general admission and $190 for MOFGA and Midcoast Conservancy members.Questions? Email [email protected]
Are you finally getting that backyard chicken flock you've long dreamed of? Join us for this introductory workshop on keeping backyard chickens, with MOFGA's Organic Dairy & Livestock Specialist, Jacki Martinez Perkins. This workshop will cover topics such as: the basics of chicken care over the seasons; site preparation; and troubleshooting common issues. Participants will […]
*This sliding scale registration is designed to make attendance as accessible as possible to people with different financial resources, while also ensuring that costs are covered. The recommended price is $190 for MOFGA members; $210 for non-members. Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and those enrolled in the […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration. This workshop will focus on body mechanics and movement patterns to help avoid potential work […]
*This is the fourth in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series. **Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program. Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in […]
June 20th, 6pm-7:30pm Chris Grigsby, MOFGA's Certification Director Meg Mitchell, MOFGA's Climate Smart and Organic Transition Specialist Virtually on Zoom Register Here! Join MOFGA’s certification director, Chris Grigsby, and Meg Mitchell, MOFGA's Climate Smart and Organic Transition Specialist, to learn the basics of organic certification as well as demystifying the process and requirements of […]
Join us for this free, hands-on, skill-sharing event! All ages are invited to MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity for a day of fun and learning focused on sustainable living skills. Come prepared to roll up your sleeves and dig in! Click here for more info. To see the draft schedule, click here.
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.This session is designed for farmworkers currently working on commercial farms in Maine or people interested […]
Spencer Aitel of Two Loons Farm has been growing a small amount of organic grains for years. He has many tips and tricks for both planting and harvest of immature forages and fully mature grain crops. Please join us for a tour of his current planting and to ask questions around all aspects of organic […]
Join us for a No-till Growers and TOPP (Transition to Organic Partnership Program) Meeting on Sunday, July 7, 4-7 p.m. at Frith Farm in Scarborough, Maine. This meeting is geared toward farmers who are growing using no-till, ecological practices or are transitioning to these methods. There will be opportunities to learn about transitioning to organic […]
Solar-powered Moorit Hill Farm & Fiber is home to a small-scale fiber mill, a flock of Icelandic sheep, gorgeous pasture, laying hens, and two adorable livestock guardian dogs. Owners/operators Elizabeth and Josh started Moorit Hill with just 4 sheep in 2017, and have continued to expand their flock, as well as their sustainable agriculture and fiber […]
*This is the fifth in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series. **Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program. Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in […]
*Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members, as well as members of the MOFGA Journeyperson program.Join Jacki Martinez Perkins, MOFGA’s Dairy & Livestock Specialist, to learn how to safely and humanely process chickens at the home or small farm scale. In this hands-on workshop, participants will be involved in each […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.Rainbow Farm is a diversified pasture based farm specializing in poultry including layers, broilers and turkeys. […]
Are you interested in climate adaptation and mitigation projects on your farm or forest land? The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical and financial assistance to plan and implement conservation work. Come visit a farm that has completed a conservation plan with NRCS, and learn about the process and outcomes. This is also an […]
For nearly two decades, the Maine Grain Alliance has been uniting bakers, millers, maltsters, brewers, grain professionals, and farmers, through meaningful conversations aimed at strengthening our regional grain economy. This year's 17th annual Kneading Conference (July 25-26) will see the introduction of the first-ever Organic Farmer Track— a series of educational workshops focused on organic […]
Learn about how we’re fighting to end PFAS contamination on farmland!Join MOFGA on July 25 from 12 to 1 p.m. for an interactive discussion about PFAS and learn about why we’re suing the EPA.Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or “forever chemicals,” are industrial chemicals that persist in the environment indefinitely. Due to the practice of […]
The Dostie Farm and their family have generations of knowledge on feeding dairy cows, and the equipment to harvest and store high quality fermented forages, including high moisture ear corn, which can be valuable in helping to balance rations looking to move away from imported concentrates. While they no longer milk cows, they have maintained […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.Suncatcher Flower Farm leases 1 acre of land from Crystal Spring Farm in Brunswick. Joined by […]
Learn the basic skills needed to safely use a winch-equipped farm tractor in the woods. This beginner-level course will cover basic tractor and winch operation, building hitches, skid trail layout, landing management and techniques to limit residual stand damage. The course will not include hands-on tree felling instruction. REGISTER HERE *This sliding scale registration is […]
Are you interested in climate adaptation and mitigation projects on your farm or forest land? The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical and financial assistance to plan and implement conservation work. Come visit a farm that has completed a conservation plan with NRCS, and learn about the process and outcomes. This is also an […]
Join us on Wednesday, August 7 at 10:30 a.m. for a Field Day at Aurora Mills and Farm in Linneus, Maine. This free event, designed for farmers, is part of the Maine Grain Alliance’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program grant. The day will feature a tour of the farm, mill, equipment, and buildings. Sara Flewelling […]
Join Nurture Through Nature for a fun-filled day of learning how to build your very own backyard oven! Get your hands dirty as you work alongside experienced instructors to create a beautiful and functional oven that you can use to bake delicious pizzas, bread, and more. This hands-on workshop will teach you the ins and outs of […]
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist for work in our Assisted Migration plot. Assisted Migration is the practice of aiding species in their movement as a response to climate change. MOFGA has set aside a small plot in our woods as a place for experimentation with Assisted Migration.Work in this area may include building or maintenance, […]
NEW DATE! Our August 9 tour has been rescheduled to August 16 due to rain. Come visit (or re-visit) Alice's off-grid, low-key homestead, featuring a tiny cabin and gorgeous gardens. Ask questions about living small, keeping things simple, and adapting to changing life circumstances and visions over time. Alice held a "beginner homestead" Gather & Grow tour […]
*Free for Journeyperson program participants and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Scholarship application for anyone interested is available here. This workshop is an introduction to the practices involved in growing nursery stock, like apple and other fruit seedling trees. The focus will be on bud grafting, which involves grafting a growth bud onto rootstock in […]
*This event is free for participants in MOFGA's Journeyperson program, as well as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members.Learn to dye fabrics with locally foraged plant materials in this introductory natural dyeing workshop, open to new and experienced dyers alike. Participants will tie-dye cotton bandanas with goldenrod and experiment with wool yarn […]
If you're planning to welcome a small group of into your life, you'll want to be prepared! Join us for this introductory workshop on small-scale shepherding, with MOFGA’s Organic Dairy & Livestock Specialist, Jacki Martinez Perkins. This hands-on workshop will cover topics such as: ensuring appropriate space and resources for your flock; grazing; herding; seasonal care tasks; troubleshooting […]
Join the Low-Impact Forestry program as we learn from Sarah Robinson from Piscataquis County Soil and Water Conservation District and Dustin Small from Bissel Brothers Three Rivers about identifying and sustainably harvesting forest foods. Together, they will teach us about common edible plants found in Maine's forests - right here in Unity at the MOFGA campus.Please bring […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.Wild Few Herb Farm is a no-till medicinal herb farm growing 30 different varieties of herbs […]
*This is the sixth in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series. **Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program. Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in […]
Alan Day Community Garden (ADCG) is home to bountiful veggie gardens, tended to by community members, as well as to a community food forest project. At 1 pm, join Scott Vlaun from the Center for an Ecology-Based Economy in Norway for a tour of ADCG, with a specific focus on the food forest. Learn about the […]
Visit a sweet homestead boasting food forest-inspired fruit and nut trees, berry bushes, and topiary in Mt. Vernon, Maine. Greg and Debbie grow cherries, mulberries, apples, elderberries, chestnuts, hazelnuts, and more. This is a perfect opportunity for those interested in homesteading, having fun with topiary, propagating trees, and/or cultivating fruits and nuts -- especially those less commonly grown in Maine. Learn about Greg's transition […]
This event has been cancelled due to low registration.Join MOFGA as we are guided by Elizabeth Grey and Alice Hotopp through a morning exploration of the Ecology of Grief.Ecological grief is the sense of loss that accompanies bearing witness to the changing landscape as a result of climate change and environmental destruction. As a landowner, the […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.Come tour Second Frost Farm, a MOFGA-certified organic vegetable farm in Monroe offering a wide range […]
Please join us to tour a small hobby urban garden. We'll explore a number of ongoing experiments as well as tried and true techniques. Expect to chat about vertical systems, year-round growing, biochar, earthen flooring and automating rain barrels as well as espaliers, edibles and native mixes. We will explain our adapted greenhouse and adapted […]
View the Early Schedule REGISTRATION CLOSED - See you next time!*Participants in MOFGA's Journeyperson program and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members are welcome to register at no cost.Calling all cider makers, orchardists, fruit enthusiasts and apple nerds!Come learn about innovative orcharding methods, identifying and preserving heritage varieties, foraging wild fruit, cider […]
We hope you'll join us for our next Gardening Q&A! Whether you've been gardening for decades or you're daydreaming about starting your first garden this year (or somewhere in between), these informal Zoom conversations are a chance to discuss whatever gardening topics are on your mind. Bring your questions for a casual conversation and a […]
Learn about native plants that will help pollinators feel at home in your garden, via this weeknight webinar with Ivonne Vazquez of Bas Rouge Farm & Forge. Participants will learn about plants native to their region in Maine; how gardeners can attract pollinator species by stewarding native plants; and get tips on some native plants that would be […]
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist for work in our Assisted Migration plot. Assisted Migration is the practice of aiding species in their movement as a response to climate change. MOFGA has set aside a small plot in our woods as a place for experimentation with Assisted Migration.Spend the afternoon helping us remove invasive plants from […]
Join Richard Roberts, the Director of Maine Grain Alliances’s Heritage Seed Restoration Project, for a free educational workshop on planting winter grains. Attendees will have the opportunity to see small-scale cultivation equipment in use and discuss strategies for overwintering small grains in Maine – including soil fertility management, understory seeding for weed control, insulating your […]
MOFGA’s Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for apprentices, Journeypeople, farmworkers and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. All events are free but require registration.New Spoke Farm grows diversified, vibrant vegetables for CSA, markets and wholesale. They utilize a variety […]
Join the O’Donnells at Rusted Rooster Farm for a grain harvest field day demonstration and a discussion on drying, storage, and post-harvest grain handling practices.REGISTER HERE.
Join MOFHA, Downeast flower farmers, and farmworkers for three flower farm visits in the Downeast area. We will gather first at Salt Farm Flowers for a welcome activity and a tour, and then head out to see Solid Roots Flower Farm and Seal Point Farm. Bring your own lunch and snacks. Carpooling between sites throughout […]
The workshop is part of our three-part Starting Your Farm online series. First up is Accessing Resources. If you are interested in starting a farm, it is never too soon to consider your options of how to access land and capital resources. Join Maine’s field agent for Land For Good and Bo Dennis, MOFGA’s Beginning […]
*This is the seventh in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series. **Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program. Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in […]
Join MOFGA and the Ecology Learning Center for a screening of “Seeds of Change,” a film that chronicles the intersecting stories of lifelong farmer Mark McBrine and several incarcerated men as they grow their own food in a 5-acre prison garden. An organic farmer in Maine sets out to transform the prison food system. Filmed over […]
The Common Ground Country Fair will be held at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity, Maine on September 20, 21, and 22, 2024. MOFGA’s annual celebration of rural living features 1000+ exhibitors and speakers, and emphasizes vibrant communities, sustainable living and local economies, while highlighting organic agriculture. Learn more here.Advance tickets are on sale […]
*Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and MOFGA Journeypersons.Join professional sawyer Nick Zandstra for a hands-on opportunity to learn about portable bandsaw mills. The course will cover basic mill operation, mill yard layout and techniques to maximize lumber quality while milling logs harvested from the MOFGA woodlot. Please […]
*This event has been moved from its previously scheduled date, June 14.Learn the art of baking in a cob oven at beautiful Morning Glory Farm in Bethel, Maine! Wood fired earth ovens make it possible to bake incredible crusty breads and pizzas outdoors at home. In this one day workshop you will learn to bake using […]
Aprenda sobre las plantas nativas que ayudarán a los polinizadores en su jardín, en este seminario web entre semana con Ivonne Vazquez de Bas Rouge Farm & Forge. Participantes aprenderán sobre plantas nativas de su región en Maine y cómo los jardineros pueden atraer especies polinizadoras cuidando las plantas nativas. También, obtenga consejos sobre algunas […]
DESCRIPTIONJoin farm-based educators and farm to school practitioners for a hands-on, farm-based learning experience this October! This day-long experience invites you into peer-facilitated conversations around topics of your choosing: early learners on the farm, balancing production and education, favorite farm programs for teens, summer camp, running a mission-based organization, and more. The morning will include […]
Esta clase ha sido cancelada debido a circunstancias atenuantes. Si quieren recursos de este tema, pueden enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]. ¿Quieres crecer más verduras durante los meses fríos? Participe en este webinar sobre extendiendo la temporada de jardinería. Con Ivonne Vazquez de Bas Rouge Farm & Forge, aprenderan acerca de usar cubierta de fila; […]
Learn to preserve the bounty and bold flavors of summer by mixing fruit and peppers in your jams in this early fall workshop. Participants will learn the basics of making delicious jams -- including safe and sanitary jarring practices -- and work together on making fruit + hot pepper jams to take home. Each participant will walk […]
This event is being hosted by UMaine. A two-day gathering at University of Maine, Orono, to inform people about current research about brown ash forests and reconvene the community of people who care for brown ash. We will also be hosting a community dinner on Indian Island on the night of October 8. We will […]
*Registration for this workshop is full. To join the waitlist, please email [email protected] Emily Springer of Meeting House Farm – a MOFGA-certified organic herb farm in Scarborough, Maine – to learn about the history and art of blending tea/tisane. Meeting House Farm grows organic herbs for Infusion Herb Co., a local producer of organic herbal products.Using locally-sourced herbs, […]
Growers are increasingly interested in cultural practices that improve plant health, extend the growing season, and increase the resilience of their farm’s operation. High tunnels are now widely used on mixed vegetable farms in Maine, and their popularity is only growing. However, a high tunnel is a major investment, and may not be the appropriate […]
The workshop is part of our three-part Starting Your Farm online series. Once you have begun to explore your options for starting a farm, it is important to consider what you plan to grow and sell. Join Nicolas Lindholm, MOFGA’s Business and Marketing Specialist, for an interactive workshop on enterprise selection and financial planning. We […]
*This is the eighth in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series.**Registration is free for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community members and participants in the MOFGA Journeyperson Program.Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in March to […]
As the growing season comes to a close, spend an evening with Ivonne Vazquez of Bas Rouge Farm & Forge for this webinar on garden clean-up. Participants will receive guidance on how to clean up their gardens, while accounting for aesthetics, sustainability, and next year's growth. This webinar will include a Q&A section.This webinar will be recorded; and the […]
We’ll be at Maine Conservation Voters’ annual Evening for the Environment – and we hope to see you there! The event will be held at the University of New England Innovation Hall in Portland, Maine on Thursday, October 17 from 6-8 p.m. The Evening for the Environment is a gathering to celebrate the environmental accomplishments […]
Have fun with fermenting in this hands-on workshop, wherein participants will turn the season's harvest into delicious kimchi, kraut, and takuan. Instructor Rich Lee of Tendersoles Farm will teach participants about these particular types of ferments; guide participants through collaboratively making kimchi, kraut, and takuan; and discuss the various steps in the fermentation process. Participants will walk away […]
This event will take place at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity, ME with a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. Donations gratefully accepted at the door to support this and other MOFGA programming.Fall fruit season is here! Join us at MOFGA for a celebration of apples & other delicious tree fruit!The day’s offerings […]
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist for work in our Assisted Migration plot. Assisted Migration is the practice of aiding species in their movement as a response to climate change. MOFGA has set aside a small plot in our woods as a place for experimentation with Assisted Migration. Work in this area may include building or […]
MOFGA’s Farmer to Farmer Conference is known for its intimacy, in-depth treatment of topics, and profound discussions. The conference offerings are based on the idea that farmers learn best from their peers and other practitioners. Conference speakers include prominent and accessible university faculty, extension educators, and other agricultural professionals. Our unique workshop session format presents […]
Join MOFGA's Low-Impact Forestry program for a visit to Appalachian Mountain Club's (AMC) land near Katahdin Iron Works for a chance to learn about their stream restoration work. We will hear from their foresters as well as scientists from the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). The workshop will begin with indoor presentations […]
Learn safe chainsaw operation in these one-and-a-half-day courses. We’ll cover personal protective equipment (PPE) and chainsaw selection, and practice safe handling and open-face bore cutting techniques with instructor supervision. Designed for beginners. REGISTER HERE Registration is $240 general admission and $190 for MOFGA and Midcoast Conservancy members. Learn more about MOFGA's chainsaw courses on our […]
The workshop is part of our three-part Starting Your Farm online series. Designed for participants who have attended session one and two of the Starting Your Farm series, this workshop will cover how to create a production plan for your first year. This interactive workshop will guide you through the process of developing your first […]
In this follow-up to The Art of Blending Tea on October 9, participants will learn about blending teas/tisanes for medicinal purposes. Learn from Emily Springer of Meeting House Farm – a MOFGA certified organic farm in Scarborough, Maine. Meeting House Farm grows organic herbs for Infusion Herb Co., a local producer of organic herbal products. This class will focus on the medicinal […]
*This is the final class in a series of 9 classes. Registration price covers the whole series.Join Master Beekeeper Karen Thurlow for our first-ever foray into beekeeping through the seasons. From getting hives going in March to feeding and putting them to rest in November: this series will trace the shifting activities, challenges, and hive […]
What does it mean to practice biology as a feminist? To grapple with the colonial and racist histories of modern plant sciences? To move toward a feminist, decolonial botany? Explore these questions with Dr. Banu Subramaniam: Luella LaMer Professor of Women's and Gender Studies at Wellesley College, plant evolutionary biologist, and author of Botany of Empire: Plant Worlds and […]
Access to funding is so often a barrier for individuals and communities looking to start food and land-based projects. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are banks and credit unions that specifically focus on making financial resources more accessible to marginalized communities, who are typically excluded from the financial system. CDFIs are commonly used to fund […]
Learn to sustainably forage white pine needles, and to make salve with your harvest in this evening workshop led by Emily Springer of Meeting House Farm, and organized by The Ecology School & MOFGA.The class will focus on the herbal benefits of white pine for skin, as well as how to make a salve from infused white pine oil. […]
*The snow date for this event is December 13.Join MOFGA for our annual Kitchen Licensing Workshop!This in-person workshop is designed for farmers, homesteaders, and aspiring small business owners interested in producing value-added food products (e.g. cheese, ice cream, baked goods, preserves, ferments) to sell for retail in Maine. Participants will learn about the process of […]
Access to funding is so often a barrier for individuals and communities looking to start food and land-based projects. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are banks and credit unions that specifically focus on making financial resources more accessible to marginalized communities, who are typically excluded from the financial system. CDFIs are commonly used to fund […]
Get in touch with MOFGA at the 2025 Agricultural Trades Show! Join us for the following slate of events: 9-10 a.m. — Coffee Hour Crop Conversation Caleb Goossen, MOFGA Crop Specialist; Jason Lilley, University of Maine Extension; and others Join extension, technical assistance providers, and your peers for a round table discussion on vegetable production. […]
Join us for a discussion with Katrina Amaral of Timberdoodle Farm to learn about logging for long-term sustainable land management while farming, what to consider for stand health and diversity, and Timberdoodle's environmental ethic.REGISTER HERETimberdoodle Farm is a specialty logging & sawmill business based in Strafford, New Hampshire. Owners Miles and Katrina Amaral began custom […]
This event has been rescheduled to January 16. Join University of Maine Extension Maple Industry Educator, Jason Lilley, to learn everything you need to know about making your own maple syrup. We'll discuss identifying and tapping trees, collecting and boiling sap, as well as filtering, grading, and canning syrup. Jason will focus on homestead-scale systems […]
*Please note that in case of severe winter weather, this event will be held on January 26 at 1 pm.Join Nicholas Repenning of go-en fermented foods for a miso-making workshop. This hands-on workshop will include a discussion about miso and its uses, as well as the history and cultural significance of this traditional fermented food […]
*This is a 3 part webinar series with sessions taking place on: January 18, January 19, & January 25 from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. All sessions will be recorded & the recordings shared with registrants. We will reserve January 26 as a snow date in case of power or internet outages. About the class: There are […]
*This is a 3 part webinar series with sessions taking place on: January 18, January 19, & January 25 from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. All sessions will be recorded & the recordings shared with registrants. We will reserve January 26 as a snow date in case of power or internet outages. About the class:There are so many […]
This winter, MOFGA will be hosting three webinars to introduce tools that are commonly part of a farm's financial records, highlighting and demonstrating effective and efficient ways to use them to assess risks and evaluate opportunities. These online sessions will cover Cash Flow projections, Unit Cost Analysis spreadsheets, and Income Statements’ Chart of Accounts, showing that […]
Join MOFGA for our annual membership meeting via Zoom.At the annual meeting, you’ll hear reports from board members and MOFGA’s executive director on our impact during 2024 and plans for 2025. We'll also be conducting the vote for our board of directors by mail in the winter issue of The MOF&G and online starting on December 23. Register and cast your […]
*This is a 3 part webinar series with sessions taking place on: January 18, January 19, & January 25 from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. All sessions will be recorded & the recordings shared with registrants. We will reserve January 26 as a snow date in case of power or internet outages. About the class:There are so many […]
This winter, MOFGA will be hosting three webinars to introduce tools that are commonly part of a farm's financial records, highlighting and demonstrating effective and efficient ways to use them to assess risks and evaluate opportunities. These online sessions will cover Cash Flow projections, Unit Cost Analysis spreadsheets, and Income Statements’ Chart of Accounts, showing that […]
Are you curious about adapting your garden to the changing climate? Learn about how climate change affects how we grow in Maine, and how gardeners can adapt their gardening practices to mitigate the effects of climate change on their harvest while supporting their local ecosystem. In this webinar, Sean Birkel, Maine State Climatologist and Research […]
The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) proudly presents Seeds of Change. Stream the award-winning PBS film February 7-23, 2025 from the comfort of your home, and join us for a livestream discussion at 7 PM on February 20.About the film:An organic farmer in Maine sets out to transform the prison food system. Filmed over the […]
Did you know that there are over 4,000 different wild bee species in the US? We usually think of wild pollinating bees in our gardens and meadows, but many of our wild bee species also rely on forest habitats for part of their life cycle. For example, some are specialized to only collect pollen and […]
Join us for the first of our February farmer-led producer meetings, facilitated by MOFGA’s Organic Crop and Conservation Specialist, Caleb Goosen. Meet with fellow farmers to discuss seeding schedules, both for in the ground in tunnels, and for seedlings.We will dive into topics like:How many successions?When do you start? How much time is between them?This session will […]
We hope you'll join us for our first Gardening Q&A of 2025! Whether you've been gardening for decades or you're daydreaming about starting your first garden this year (or somewhere in between), these informal Zoom conversations are a chance to discuss whatever gardening topics are on your mind. Bring your questions for a casual conversation and […]
Hosted by MOFGA, this webinar will be led by staff members of Ambrook who will share some tips and tools to start off 2025 with strong farm recordkeeping habits. The session will include free resources that help you find funding for your operation, best practices for good books, and an overview of Ambrook's ag bookkeeping software. […]
This winter, MOFGA will be hosting three webinars to introduce tools that are commonly part of a farm's financial records, highlighting and demonstrating effective and efficient ways to use them to assess risks and evaluate opportunities. These online sessions will cover Cash Flow projections, Unit Cost Analysis spreadsheets, and Income Statements’ Chart of Accounts, showing that […]
The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) proudly presents Seeds of Change. Stream the award-winning PBS film February 7-23, 2025 from the comfort of your home, and join us for a livestream discussion at 7 PM on February 20.About the film:An organic farmer in Maine sets out to transform the prison food system. Filmed over the […]
Join us for the second of our February farmer-led producer meetings, facilitated by MOFGA’s Organic Crop and Conservation Specialist, Caleb Goosen. Meet with fellow farmers to discuss a topic of interest. The topic will be chosen by the farmers in attendance at our February 12 meeting on seeding schedules and announced at a later date. This session […]
Join us for the first of our March farmer-led producer meetings, facilitated by MOFGA’s Organic Crop and Conservation Specialist, Caleb Goosen. Meet with fellow farmers to discuss a topic of interest. The topic will be chosen by the farmers in attendance at our February 27 meeting and announced at a later date. This session will be farmer-led […]
This event is hosted by UMaine Cooperative Extension. Concerned about how a more extreme climate is impacting your farm or landscape? Too much or too little water? Concerned about soil erosion, wind impacts or shifting seasons? Come learn about Climate Adaptation Planning as a tool to assess risks and identify solutions to increase resilience and […]
*In the event of severe weather, the event will take place on Sunday, March 9 at 10 am.Learn to prune fruit trees to encourage vigorous growth, heavy fruit set and quality fruit yield. Fruit tree experts will offer hands-on pruning experience. Collection of scion wood and storage will also be discussed. This workshop is directed […]
This event is held by the Southern Aroostook Soil & Water Conservation District, as a part of their Winter Ag School. Speaker: Andy Whitman, Climate Carbon Specialist, Maine Forest ServiceLocation: Meduxnekeag Ramblers Club, Littleton, MELearn about current available carbon market options for small woodlot owners, and what to know to help you determine if program […]
MOFGA is bringing back our Spring Growth conference!Building off the conversation that was created in the “Striving to Normalize Farm Financials” session at our Farmer to Farmer Conference last fall, MOFGA is hosting a one day event for diversified mixed vegetable farms in Maine, to generate and share open conversation about farm financial realities. The […]
This event is hosted by UMaine Cooperative Extension.Sean Birkel, Assistant Professor and Maine State Climatologist, and Rebecca Long, Coordinator of Horticulture Training Programs for UMaine Cooperative Extension, will discuss climate change in Maine, impacts important to your garden and explore how to make your garden more resilient. This webinar will lay the groundwork for the […]
The Climate Forums are brought to you by NOFA-VT and MOFGA. This event is one in a three-part series discussing flooding, excess precipitation, and farm resilience.Farmers throughout New England have been severely impacted by extreme precipitation and flooding. As a result, farms are innovating, exploring creative and meaningful ways to adapt their businesses and production […]
This event is held by the Southern Aroostook Soil & Water Conservation District, as a part of their Winter Ag School.Speaker: C.J. Walke, MOFGA Orchard Program ManagerLocation: Sherman, MEC.J. will discuss basics of pruning fruit trees, with an overview of pruning tools and techniques. Bring your pruners and loppers (if you have them) and spend […]
Join us for a fun, educational afternoon celebrating the sweet Maine tradition of maple syrup production! Whether you’re an experienced sugarer or a maple novice, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore MOFGA's beautiful sugarbush, watch the sugaring process, and learn winter tree identification, all while enjoying hot drinks and the warmth of a crackling outdoor […]
Speaker: Caleb Goossen, Crop and Conservation Specialist, MOFGAThis class is held online via Zoom.REGISTER HERELearn an organic approach to insect and disease management with an overview of IPM practices. Caleb will discuss common and newly-emerging pests and diseases in Maine and share management strategies, including cultural methods.1 Pesticide Credit
This event is hosted by UMaine Cooperative Extension. Ecological Design is a helpful tool for implementing a Climate Adaptation Plan. In this workshop Jesse Watson from Maine Ecological Design School will introduce the Ecological Design process and principles that go into this type of planning process. Some considerations include: categories of land use; reading the landscape, […]
This event is hosted by the UMaine Cooperative Extension.In this webinar, participants will learn about the interdependence of pollinators, plants, and the environment. We will cover what participants can observe in their own backyards and actions everyone can take to create resilient backyard habitat for pollinators now and in the future.Please note: This webinar will […]
Are you curious about adapting your garden to the changing climate? In this webinar, learn some key climate adaptation strategies for gardeners that will help you grow successful veggie and fruit crops while supporting your local ecosystem. Meg Mitchell, MOFGA's Climate Smart and Organic Transition Specialist, and C.J. Walke, MOFGA's Orchard Program Manager, will offer their […]
This event is held by the Southern Aroostook Soil & Water Conservation District, as a part of their Winter Ag School.Speaker: Daniel Mays, Frith Farm and author of "The No-Till Organic Vegetable Farm"Two options for viewing the class:1. Online via Zoom – REGISTER HERE2. Group viewing of online class in the library at Houlton High […]
*In the event of snow or severe rain, the event will take place on Sunday, March 23 at 10 am.Are there old, overgrown fruit trees on or near your property? Don’t give up on them! Join us for this pruning workshop focused on renovating mature or neglected fruit trees.This workshop is appropriate for those who […]
Join MOFGA and Maine Farmland Trust for climate and soil health-focused conversation for farmers and agricultural service providers. We will address climate-driven events on our farms by focusing on our strengths and building our community of resources. This will be a facilitated discussion, led by farmers, about climate needs, concerns, and adaptation strategies. Expect to […]
This event is held by the UMaine Cooperative Extension.Here in Maine we’re now dealing with more periods of intense heat, prolonged drought, dramatic rain, and a slew of pests and diseases. How do we stay sane, prepare our gardens for success, and bounce back from the inevitable challenges? This workshop will cover a variety of […]
This event is hosted by Maine Grain Alliance as part of the Transition to Organic Partnership Program. Maine’s grain economy has seen incredible growth over the last decade, driven by a revival of the state’s milling and malting industries.Farmers and producer partnerships made this revival possible and maintaining them will be crucial to meet the […]
The Climate Forums are brought to you by NOFA-VT and MOFGA. This event is one in a three-part series discussing flooding, excess precipitation, and farm resilience.Sean Birkel will review Maine’s historical temperature and precipitation trends and future climate projections, and discuss impacts to the growing season. Sean will give an overview of online tools relevant […]
The federal funding freeze is just one part of the equation resulting from recent federal actions that is affecting farmers. Cuts in crucial programming and mass firings of vital staffing also have a direct impact on farmers. While some funds have been unfrozen and some staff have been temporarily reinstated, the long-term impacts of these […]
This event is hosted by UMaine Cooperative Extension. Soil fertility is subject to change over the course of the growing season and requires active management. A good fertility management program helps to ensure that commercial crop and forage production is efficient, as well as economically and environmentally sustainable. In recent years, extreme weather events characterized by […]
Do you have farm animals? Do they have hooves? Do they get their hooves trimmed? Why not?Overlooking the hoof health of our farm animals has economic and welfare consequences. While it can be a valid choice to hire someone to maintain the integrity of hooves on our farms and homesteads, as caretakers we are obligated […]
About the class:Grow Your Own Organic Garden covers all the basics of organic gardening — such as supporting soil and plant health, starting seeds indoors and outdoors, interplanting, pest management, watering, and harvesting. Participants will have plenty of time to ask questions and connect with one another about shared experiences in their gardening journeys so […]
Join MOFGA and American Farmland Trust for climate disaster relief focused conversation and listening session for farmers and agricultural service providers. Were you impacted by the December 2024 storm? A flooding event? Concerned about how climate-driven events might impact your farm in the future? We want to hear what you think robust disaster relief programs […]
This event is held by the Southern Aroostook Soil & Water Conservation District, as a part of their Winter Ag School.Speaker: Anthony D’Amato, Forestry Program Director, UVM and Paul Catanzaro, Professor & State Extension Forester, UMass AmherstTwo options for viewing the class:1. Online via Zoom – REGISTER HERE2. Group viewing of online class in the library […]
This event is hosted by Green Acre. Part of the One Shared Earth film series, Gather is a portrait of a growing movement amongst Native Americans to restore access to healthy food. The film shares stories of how Native communities are building sustainable food systems that improve health, strengthen food security and restore Native agriculture practices. In times of great change, […]
*This event has been rescheduled from March 29 to April 5 due to inclement weather.Learn to prune berry bushes to encourage plant health, vigorous growth, and high fruit yield. Seth Yentes, co-owner and operator of North Branch Farm, will offer guidance on pruning techniques and safety, as well as hands-on pruning experience via some of […]
*This event has been rescheduled from March 29 to April 5 due to inclement weather.Are there old, overgrown fruit trees on or near your property? Don’t give up on them! Join us for this pruning workshop focused on renovating mature or neglected fruit trees.This workshop is appropriate for those who have not pruned fruit trees […]
*Postponed to April 6 due to inclement weather forecast*Kick off the growing season at this free, annual event!Gardeners and orchardists are invited to bring their seeds, scionwood (fruit tree wood for propagating fruit trees), and plants to share. You don't need to bring anything in order to participate! There is always an abundance of seeds […]
Elizabeth Keen from Indian Line Farm in South Egremont, MA will discuss the process of completely remodeling a 1930s dairy barn into an updated wash/pack, using funds from the MA Food Security and Infrastructure Grant. Elizabeth has been managing the farm since 1997. Indian Line has a 250 member CSA, one Saturday market and does […]
Herbaceous perennial plants are an important part of home gardens. They provide food for wildlife and pollinators and provide interesting flowers and forms that change throughout the year. As perennials and long-term plants in the garden, they can be susceptible to changes in climate, including fluctuations in temperature, rainfall, and snowfall. Stephanie will discuss things […]
The Climate Forums are brought to you by NOFA-VT and MOFGA. This event is one in a three-part series discussing flooding, excess precipitation, and farm resilience. Climate Adaptation Planning is a useful tool to assess risks and identify strategies to increase resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change. This session will discuss the process […]
The Organic Grain & Summit will bring together grain growers and seed savers for a day of educational workshops at Kennebec Valley Community College. Attendees will explore topics such as building soil health, managing weeds organically, growing grains for seed production, and heritage grain seed restoration.Tickets are free for farmers, $50 for non-farmers, or $25 […]
MOFGA and Maine Farmland Trust (MFT) are proud to partner with the Portland Museum of Art to present a screening of Common Ground. This award-winning film documents some of the many challenges facing farmers and our food system, and it explains that one of our most effective tools to mitigate climate change might be right […]
Join us for the first in this webinar series focused on produce safety! Throughout this series of three webinars, Lindsay Werner of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry and Robson Machado of the Cooperative Extension will guide farmers through the information needed to build and implement food safety plans. This webinar is intended to prepare […]
This event his hosted by Meeting House Farm.Learn from Emily Springer at Meeting House Farm in "Grow Your Own Apothecary" -- A 12-Week Herbal Gardening Course.Imagine stepping into a lush, vibrant garden—one that not only enhances your home’s beauty but also serves as a powerful source of healing for you and your family. This 12-week course […]
Join MOFGA at the Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick for a free screening of Common Ground. The library will screen the 45-minute educational version of this film and host a panel discussion. The film documents the genesis and the environmental impacts of so-called conventional farming, and it proposes that employing regenerative farming techniques can mitigate the effects […]
Take action to support farmers!The federal funding freeze is just one of many federal actions that is affecting farmers. Cuts in crucial programming and mass firings of vital staffing also have a direct impact on farmers. While some funds have been unfrozen and some staff have been temporarily reinstated, the short-term impacts have been harmful […]
Learn how to support your livestock animals’ health by examining their fecal samples for parasites and general markers of gut health. Fecal monitoring is one important way to measure the well-being of your animals, and some fecal monitoring can be done at home with the right knowledge and equipment. In this class, Jacki Martinez Perkins, […]
Join MOFGA and Maine Farmland Trust for a climate and soil health focused conversation for farmers and agricultural service providers. We want to address climate-driven events on your farm by focusing on our strengths and building our community of resources. This will be a facilitated discussion, led by farmers, about climate needs, concerns, and adaptation […]
*In the event of severe weather, this workshop will be held on April 20 at 10 am.Sold Out - to be added to the waitlist, email [email protected] how to reproduce your favorite apple tree varieties through bench grafting — the practice of grafting fruit tree scionwood onto rootstock — in this beginner-level workshop. Bench grafting is […]
The 2025 Convergence Event aims to unite the community in exploring food system shifts that advance social equity, racial justice, and climate resilience.PFAS Advocacy in Maine & DC Join the 2025 Convergence on May 29 for a session led by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association on Maine’s leadership in the fight against PFAS […]
MOFGA is proud to partner with the Maine Film Center in Waterville to present a free screening of Saving Walden's World. This documentary, by Maine-based filmmaker Jim Merkel, follows his journey from government contractor to climate activist. Jim travels across continents to learn from societies that are living well with a small ecological footprint, and where […]
*This event has been cancelled due to low registration. If you would like to take the class at the Augusta location on April 30, click here.About the class:Grow Your Own Organic Garden covers all the basics of organic gardening — such as supporting soil and plant health, starting seeds indoors and outdoors, interplanting, pest management, […]
Are you curious about adapting your garden to the changing climate?In this webinar, learn some key climate adaptation strategies for gardeners to help your native plants and ornamentals thrive; as well as how what you choose to grow can support your local ecosystem and preservation efforts amid climate change. Learn from Emily Baisden, Wild Seed […]
Join us to celebrate (belated) Earth Day with a spring cleanup at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.We’ll spend time tidying the grounds to get ready for the upcoming growing season and events we'll be hosting. Tasks include raking, garden bed prep, working in […]
Please join us for our next No Till Grower Meeting on Sunday April 27 at Assawaga Farm in Connecticut from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This event is geared toward farmers who are growing using no-till, ecological practices or are actively transitioning to these methods. Also learn about organic mentorship opportunities offered through the Transition […]
Join us for the second event in this series focused on produce safety! Throughout this series of three webinars, Lindsay Werner of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry and Robson Machado of the Cooperative Extension will guide us through the information we need to build and implement food safety plans. This workshop is intended to […]
This event is hosted by UMaine Cooperative Extension. Ponds are a key nature-based tool for tackling challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity. In this workshop, participants learn how to build and maintain a pond to enhance their landscape, increase biodiversity, maximize wildlife habitat, and help reach water management goals in a […]
About the class:Grow Your Own Organic Garden covers all the basics of organic gardening — such as supporting soil and plant health, starting seeds indoors and outdoors, interplanting, pest management, watering, and harvesting. Participants will have plenty of time to ask questions and connect with one another about shared experiences in their gardening journeys so […]
Say hello to May, and the growing season, during MOFGA's Gardening Q&A. Whether you've been gardening for decades or you're daydreaming about starting your first garden this year (or somewhere in between), these informal Zoom conversations are a chance to discuss whatever gardening topics are on your mind. Bring your questions for a casual conversation and […]
Mushrooms are a delicious addition to almost any garden, homestead, woodlot, or farm. In this introductory workshop, learn how to select mushroom logs and varieties, with a specific focus on shiitakes; design an appropriate site for growing shiitakes outdoors; and practice inoculating logs. Participants will be able to bring home an inoculated shiitake log, which […]
Join us for a deep dive into sugarbush management! This crash course will cover an overview of maple in Maine, habitat assessment (including Bird Friendly Maple! and invasive plants), production, and financial incentives. You'll leave this workshop with resources and knowledge to increase the biodiversity of your sugarbush while accessing financial resources (including NRCS), forestry technical assistance, and a couple different certifications. This […]
Learn safe chainsaw operation in these one-and-a-half-day courses. We’ll cover personal protective equipment (PPE) and chainsaw selection, and practice safe handling and open-face bore cutting techniques with instructor supervision. Designed for beginners.Day 1 of this course will run 10am - 4pm, and Day 2 will run 8am - 4pm.REGISTER HERELearn more about MOFGA's chainsaw courses […]
How does climate change affect pests and diseases that gardeners may contend with? And what are some best practices for organic, sustainable, and ethical management of said pests and diseases? Bring your questions, and hear from two experts -- Mariam Taleb and Caleb Goossen -- in this Q&A. This webinar will be recorded, and the recording will be […]
Join us for the third event in this series focused on produce safety! Throughout this series of three webinars, Lindsay Werner of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry and Robson Machado of the Cooperative Extension will guide us through the information we need to build and implement food safety plans. This webinar is intended to […]
This event is hosted by UMaine Cooperative Extension and Cultivating Community.Join UMaine Extension and Cultivating Community for a workshop that will teach the basics of how to maximize yields in your urban garden. Learn different planting techniques, and strategies for extending your garden vertically. This workshop will be a mix of instruction and hands on […]
This workshop with Cynthia from Labor Movement will focus on body mechanics and movement patterns to help avoid potential work related musculoskeletal injuries while farming. We will discuss and practice ideal vs real and ways to modify to get the work done safely and efficiently.In addition to the workshop, there will be a table of […]
Nestled on the serene grounds of MOFGA’s campus in Unity, Maine, the Maine Heritage Orchard has blossomed over the past decade, into a monument of environmental stewardship and agricultural heritage. As it marks its 10th anniversary, the orchard is a testament to community collaboration and educational innovation, showcasing nearly 400 varieties of historic apples and […]
POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER. New date TBA. Kick off summer with Rosemont Market at their first-ever GrillMont—a community cookout celebrating the season of sunshine, grilling, and great food. They'll be serving: Burgers from Pineland Farms. Sausages from Colvard & Company. Rosemont-made potato salad, chips & seltzer. Free beer tastings with Oxbow Brewing. Rosé samples from our curated Rosémont selection. Plates are […]
Join DJ Dance Party at the Topsham Exhibition Hall for a 60's, 70's, and 80's dance party!All proceeds benefit MOFGA.$20 tickets, with a cash bar. This event is 21+. BUY TICKETS.
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist for work in our Assisted Migration plot. Assisted Migration is the practice of aiding species in their movement as a response to climate change. MOFGA has set aside a small plot in our woods as a place for experimentation with Assisted Migration.VOLUNTEER SIGN-UPWork in this area may include building or […]
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist for work in our Assisted Migration plot. Assisted Migration is the practice of aiding species in their movement as a response to climate change. MOFGA has set aside a small plot in our woods as a place for experimentation with Assisted Migration. VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP Work in this area may include […]
Learn safe chainsaw operation in these one-and-a-half-day courses. We’ll cover personal protective equipment (PPE) and chainsaw selection, and practice safe handling and open-face bore cutting techniques with instructor supervision. Designed and structured to create a welcoming learning environment for beginner-level chainsaw users who can relate to the experiences of women in the woods or feel safest […]
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist for work in our Assisted Migration plot. Assisted Migration is the practice of aiding species in their movement as a response to climate change. MOFGA has set aside a small plot in our woods as a place for experimentation with Assisted Migration. VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP Work in this area may include […]
Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for journeypeople, farmworkers, and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. Tour a diversified vegetable farm to see various infrastructure and soil health practices at work. Dharma Farm is a certified organic farm in Washington, Maine, growing […]
Help to maintain trails throughout wooded areas on the MOFGA campus. Volunteers may perform a variety of tasks under the leadership of our Low Impact Forestry Specialist.VOLUNTEER SIGN-UPTo learn more about Low Impact Forestry at MOFGA, click here.
Jacki Martinez-Perkins and Nicolas Lindholm of MOFGA, in partnership with the Cumberland County Food Security Council, have built a financial analysis tool to help support and inform historically underserved farmers in Maine raising culturally important livestock species. This spreadsheet tool is meant to use current, real-world data inputs to help growers and technical service providers […]
Help to maintain trails throughout wooded areas on the MOFGA campus. Volunteers may perform a variety of tasks under the leadership of our Low Impact Forestry Specialist. VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP To learn more about Low Impact Forestry at MOFGA, click here.
Farm & Homestead Day at MOFGA is a free, annual, volunteer-run event. The day's activities center around sustainable living and consist of delicious food and opportunities to learn new skills through hands-on workshops for people of all ages. To learn more, visit the event's main page here.What to bring:We are striving for a zero waste event. […]
Please join us for our next no-till grower meeting on Sunday June 22, 1-6:30 p.m. at Tobacco Road Farm in Connecticut. This event is geared toward farmers who are growing using no-till, ecological practices or are actively transitioning to these methods. These events are not intended for gardeners or homesteaders. Participants will also learn about […]
Join us for an immersive and exciting event in June: The ASCFG Equipment & Field Day, hosted by the marvelous Johnny’s Selected Seeds! This event will feature live demonstrations and expert instruction on how to use different farm tools (both hand and tractor scale equipment) on Johnny’s research farm.After a welcome and an introduction, attendees […]
Help to maintain trails throughout wooded areas on the MOFGA campus. Volunteers may perform a variety of tasks under the leadership of our Low Impact Forestry Specialist. VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP To learn more about Low Impact Forestry at MOFGA, click here.
Join Seth Kroeck for an educational field day at Crystal Spring Farm, exploring the topic of small-scale organic grain production on sandy soils. This event will offer grain growers an opportunity to see the farm’s grain operation first-hand and learn from Seth's experience adapting organic production methods to Maine's unique soil conditions.REGISTER HERE.
Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for journeypeople, farmworkers, and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. Knowing proper handling and first-aid techniques can save lots of money and grief when raising livestock on your farm. Jacki Martinez Perkins, a long-time homesteader […]
This event is hosted by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.Come tour the beautiful Mt Joy Community Orchard, and learn about growing fruit trees in urban areas. This tour and workshop will be led by Aaron Parker, owner of Edgewood Nursery and a community leader at Mt Joy. We will discover the many resilient and […]
Help to maintain trails throughout wooded areas on the MOFGA campus. Volunteers may perform a variety of tasks under the leadership of our Low Impact Forestry Specialist. VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP To learn more about Low Impact Forestry at MOFGA, click here.
Join MOFGA and Emily Springer, of Meeting House Farm, for an early summer evening of learning about, and planting, medicinal herbs at MOFGA's Education Center in Unity.In this beginner-friendly class, participants will learn about 12 vital medicinal herbs that they can grow at home or in their community. Participants will also learn about herb garden […]
Do you have farm animals? Do they have hooves? Do they get their hooves trimmed? Why not?Overlooking the hoof health of our farm animals has economic and welfare consequences. While it can be a valid choice to hire someone to maintain the integrity of hooves on our farms and homesteads, as caretakers, we are obligated […]
Join us on July for a two-part workshop at UMaine’s Rogers Farm! To start things off, UMaine Extension Professor, Dr. Jaime Garzon, will showcase his legume variety trial and outline the practical applications of this research as cover crops for grain growers. In the second session, UMaine Research Associate Tom Molloy will lead attendees through […]
Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for journeypeople, farmworkers, and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. Hall Brook Farm in Thorndike, Maine, grows organic vegetables for wholesale markets on a tractor scale. Come learn about farming practices Hall Brook Farm has implemented […]
This event is hosted by the Maine School Garden Network.Join the Maine School Garden Network for a tour of the BCOPE Alternative High School garden! Learn about the work educators are doing to incorporate nature-based education into their curriculum via the garden. A picnic will follow the tour, and participants are encouraged to bring a […]
Spend a summer evening touring a vibrant school garden!At the Troy Howard Middle School Garden Project, students tend a 1/3 acre garden and a year-round greenhouse -- producing veggies, fruits, flowers, heirloom seed crops, and more. The garden provides both material sustenance and educational enrichment. Student-harvested produce -- over 1,500 pounds of it yearly -- goes […]
Join us for a tour of the Orono Community Giving Garden! The Orono Community Giving Garden (OCGG) is a collaborative resource for people in the Orono area to share food they've grown, and to gather and learn from the process of gardening. The garden is tended to by volunteers, and it features a wide variety of veggies, fruits, and flowers that […]
Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for journeypeople, farmworkers, and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. Come walk through flowers with Swell Farm to learn the basics about flower farming through the seasons in Maine. Different sales channels will be discussed including […]
Are critters nibbling on your veggies? Are plants developing strange colors, or wilting unexpectedly? Join Cooperative Extension, Cultivating Community, and MOFGA for an interactive tour of the common pests and diseases that appear at the height of summer. We’ll search over fruits and under leaves to help growers increase their comfort with diagnosing what ails […]
Join Wild Seed Project and MOFGA for a lunchtime webinar with Jessica J. Lee, environmental historian, writer, and author of Dispersals, among other works. In this webinar, Jessica will consider the core themes of her book Dispersals: On Plants, Borders, and Belonging, including ideas of kinship, language for native and invasive plants, and will explore the connections between cultural histories, personal histories, […]
Do you have farm animals? Do they have hooves? Do they get their hooves trimmed? Why not? Overlooking the hoof health of our farm animals has economic and welfare consequences. While it can be a valid choice to hire someone to maintain the integrity of hooves on our farms and homesteads, as caretakers, we are […]
Join us in Bangor for a tour of a residential urban garden!Learn from gardeners Barbara and Miriam about their gardening journey. Participants will learn about how they designed their garden for a small space, how they interact with the community through their garden, the joys and challenges of gardening in an urban environment, and the […]
Join us to learn from the authors of a recent report we developed that details the historical growth trajectory of organic agriculture in Maine from 2007-2022. Report authors Jed Beach of FarmSmart Business Services and Rose Wilson of Rose Wilson Consulting will sit down with MOFGA’s Executive Director, Sarah Alexander, to share how the report […]
Farm Training Project (FTP) workshops are designed for journeypeople, farmworkers, and other beginning farmers. They follow an informal format including a farm tour and conversation on the topic of the day. Join Caleb Goossen, MOFGA’s crop specialist, and Sound Pine Farm in Brunswick, ME, for a tour and discussion on establishing a low-till production system. We will […]
Join us for a tour of the community gardens at Beach Plum Farm Preserve in Ogunquit! Spanning 22 acres, Beach Plum Farm Preserve is the last remaining saltwater farm in Ogunquit. Managed by the Great Works Regional Land Trust, it is now home to thriving community gardens, a half-mile loop trail with marshland and ocean views, and, […]
Join the educators from Know yOUR Land Consulting, Wild Seed Project, and Maine Organic Farmer's and Gardener's Association at the MOFGA Fairgrounds in Unity, ME for a two-day professional development intensive for teachers and educators to increase skills and comfort for outdoor teaching. The program will be facilitated in partnership by Kathy Pollard and Ann Pollard-Ranco (Penobscot citizen), […]
Come join us for an open, comfortable, and facilitated space for parents who farm. Hear from others who know the juggle and the struggle. We will hear about things that have worked… and some epic fails. How might roles shift year to year and season to season as the children grow?Food and childcare provided! Please […]
Our biggest summer event is back! Join us for the 3rd Annual Paella Party at our Scarborough Market — featuring a giant pan of paella prepared on-site by Chef Carter from Colvard & Co. Plus: free tastings from Harbor Fish Market, Dunstan’s Smokehouse, Kittylamb, Oxbow Brewing, and more. Paella plates are $10, with 100% of […]
Calling all MOFGA Volunteers! Come celebrate the summer with us! We'll be at two different public events in Portland and Bangor so MOFGA volunteers from all across the state can participate. MOFGA volunteers will be eligible for special discounts and activities, so come join the fun! Be sure to wear your Fair Volunteer t-shirt, and […]
Sign up now for a special collaboration between MOFGA and Community Plate. Recently featured on NPR, Community Plate works to bring people together by pairing potluck suppers with live storytelling. On Sunday, August 17, we'll gather at MOFGA's Exhibition Hall in Unity for an evening of home-cooked food and homespun yarns. All guests are asked […]
One of the strategies for avoiding Colorado potato beetles is to plant your crop early. Another strategy is to plant your crop late. Which potato planting timing is right for you and your farm?Join Everett Ottinger of Nettie Fox Farm and MOFGA's Organic Crop Specialist Caleb Goossen for a walk through of an on-farm participatory […]
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist for work in our Assisted Migration plot. Assisted Migration is the practice of aiding species in their movement as a response to climate change. MOFGA has set aside a small plot in our woods as a place for experimentation with Assisted Migration. Interested in learning more about assisted migration? Click […]
Calling all MOFGA Volunteers! Come celebrate the summer with us! We'll be at two different public events in Portland and Bangor so MOFGA volunteers from all across the state can participate. MOFGA volunteers will be eligible for special discounts and activities, so come join the fun! Be sure to wear your Fair Volunteer t-shirt, and join […]
Do you have farm animals? Do they have hooves? Do they get their hooves trimmed? Why not? Overlooking the hoof health of our farm animals has economic and welfare consequences. While it can be a valid choice to hire someone to maintain the integrity of hooves on our farms and homesteads, as caretakers, we are […]
We are excited to build, expand, and maintain MOFGA’s trail system at our Education Center in Unity, ME. Be part of building the infrastructure for visitors to enjoy for years to come! SIGN UP HERE. Stay tuned for more volunteer dates this fall!
Join our Low-Impact Forestry Specialist and spend the morning helping us remove invasive plants from our woodlot.So called "invasive" plants in our woodlot, including shrubby honeysuckle, multiflora rose, false glossy buckthorn, bittersweet vine, and more, are being actively managed. We are working on removing these plants over time through a cost-share program with NRCS. Learn more […]
Join Out in the Open alongside MOFGA’s Low Impact Forestry staff for a forest work day. Learn basic trail maintenance skills while finishing a ¼ mile trail and create a fairy village. This will entail moving and cutting limbs using hand saws and other tools, and happen with guidance from an experienced trail builder. The […]
Join us for a morning of races, a farmer’s market, music, and so much fun! This is not your ordinary race. Racehorses have been giving their all on the Cumberland Fairground track for 154 years. Imagine the finish you’ll have tapping into their spirited, courageous, and determined energy! We are getting creative with details to […]
