Learn New Farming Techniques Every Month with Catskills CRAFT

Guest Blogger Kristan Morley is an AmeriCorps member serving as the Pure Catskills Coordinator for the Watershed Agricultural Council.

 




Are you a new farmer looking for advice, help, or just want to mingle with other farmers? Join Catskills CRAFT (Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training) for some fun at our monthly events, which are now in full swing!

Cheyenne Miller (far right) addresses Catskills CRAFT members 
at Root 'N Roost Farm (August 2013).

During the most recent August 2013 Catskills CRAFT event, members visited Root ‘N Roost Farm in White Sulphur Springs, NY. The group of roughly two dozen people had the opportunity to experience and observe sustainable and permaculture-based methods, and no-till farming from owner operators Sean Zigmund and Cheyenne Miller. Sean and Cheyenne led a tour of their garden beds, chicken coops, pig pens, and duck ponds while explaining rotational grazing, permaculture, hugelkultur, and recycled materials. Members shared stories, asked questions, and discussed farming throughout the evening.

Jen McGlashen (far right) offers samples of her homemade sauces 
to Catskills CRAFT members (June 2013).

More and more Catskills CRAFT farmers attend each month because of the innovative and diverse farming topics covered at each farm.  Channery Hill Farm in Callicoon Center, NY shed light on food preservation with a canning demonstration from farm owner Jen McGlashen. In July, Catskills CRAFT members headed to Heather Ridge Farm in Preston Hollow, NY to learn about diversifying a farm business from farm owner Carol Clement. And of course our last event covered human and animal powered farming methods at Root ‘N Roost Farm.

Carol Clement (far left) shows off her animals at Heather Ridge Farm (July 2013)

It’s not too late to enjoy a night out at a Catskills CRAFT meeting. Join us September 9 at Dirty Girl Farm in Andes, NY to learn about goat milk and cheese. Save the date on October 14 for a visit to Rondout Valley Organics in Ellenville, NY where they will show Catskills CRAFT members a CSA model, and give a garlic planting workshop. The season ends in November with a contradance and celebration (time and place still to be determined).

People of all ages including farmers and non-farmers are welcome to attend. Please visit our website for more information on Catskills CRAFT, upcoming events, and past farm tours.

A special thank you to Channery Hill Farm, Heather Ridge Farm, and Root ‘N Roost Farm who have served as gracious hosts this year.

A young girl pets a chicken at Root 'N Roost Farm (August 2013).

Catskills CRAFT looks forward to seeing you at the next event!