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We believe that the educational and professional development of tomorrow’s growers and producers informs the health of our diverse local-food system and rural economy.
Based upon CRAFT models like Organic Growers School's WNC CRAFT and similar apprenticeship networks, Blue Ridge CRAFT connects aspiring farmers with experienced farmers and encourages innovative on-farm educational and professional experiences. Providing tools to established farmers that will enhance their mentorship abilities is central to Blue Ridge CRAFT's efforts. CRAFT first emerged in New York's Hudson Valley in 1994 as "a cooperative effort of local organic and biodynamic farms organized to enhance educational opportunities for farm apprentices." And, it has since spread to many other communities. Each organization is unique, but dedicated to the advancement of tomorrow's growers. To learn more about other CRAFT organizations, click here. In the fall of 2014, Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture was approached by established farmers seeking a way to provide structured education and training to their on-farm apprentices. Through further input from the community, Blue Ridge CRAFT was formed in 2015 with the goals of:
As we work together to form a more resilient and just food system and local economy, Blue Ridge CRAFT believes that is imperative that we encourage candid, meaningful conversations, form durable and inclusive partnerships, engage best practices, and excite innovation and creativity. |
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When: May 18th, 2025. 9am-1pm Where: Hedge Family Farm, Happy Valley, NC Cost: $0-$150, depending on ticket type Calling all Pawpaw lovers! If you are interested in learning more about growing pawpaw, join us at Hedge Family Farm with Craig Mauney to learn about grafting and take home potted pawpaw seedlings. The workshop is free to participants who would like to learn, however, participants who pay will be able to do hands on grafting and take home a potted pawpaw seedling with scion combo. Even if you don't leave with a seedling, this will be a great opportunity to network with other Pawpaw lovers in the area, get an idea of what grafting is and why it's important, and taste some delicious Pawpaw treats prepared by Craig! At this workshop, you can expect to...
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When: June 1st, 2025; 2-4pm
Where: Sustainable Development Farm, Fleetwood, NC Cost: Free! We’ll get our hands dirty as we demonstrate quick, low-cost tests you can do at home to check soil nutrients, structure, and biological activity. Participants will also compare healthy and degraded soils firsthand and leave with new ideas for improving their own soil—whether in a backyard garden or a large-scale farm. At this workshop, you can expect to:
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When: July 17th; 1pm-5pm
Where: Upper Mountain Research Station, Laurel Springs, NC Cost: $25 Recommended Donation (FAMACHA Training and Certification) or $10 High Country Producer This workshop will provide education on parasite control in small ruminants, and is a local, hands-on, certification training for FAMACHA. At this workshop, you can expect...
Participants will leave with a FAMACHA certification, including a FAMACHA card. |
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In 2024, Blue Ridge CRAFT hosted 16 workshops
that engaged over 180 aspiring, beginning, and established farmers. 2024 Workshops:
In 2023, Blue Ridge CRAFT hosted 18 workshops
that engaged over 140 aspiring, beginning, and established farmers. 2023 Workshops:
2021 Workshops:
CRAFT events postponed due to COVID-19 Pandemic
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2025 Workshops:
In 2022, Blue Ridge CRAFT hosted 17 workshops
that engaged 157 aspiring, beginning, and established farmers. 2022 Workshops:
2020 Workshops: CRAFT events postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. 2019 Workshops:
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2018 Workshops
2016 Workshops:
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2017 Workshops:
2015 Workshops
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