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Blue Ridge Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training (CRAFT) cultivates meaningful mentor relationships between aspiring and experienced farmers.
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 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: March 2nd, 5-7pm
Where: Bald Guy Brew Register HERE Not sure why your pasture isn’t recovering between rotations, or why your crops are growing slower? You may need a better understanding of your soil. Participants will leave this session with a soil testing kit, and will understand how to sample soil, interpret the results, and utilize local resources to further their quests for stronger soil. Light dinner will be provided thanks to our sponsors at Seven Springs Farm Supply! |
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When: March 7th, 5-6:30pm
Where: virtual, zoom link provided after registration Register: HERE Farmers who raise or handle allergens (milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, sesame, wheat, and soy) need to be aware of the potential risks and how to minimize cross-contact contamination. This includes fruit and vegetable growers and livestock producers. An allergen control program is an excellent way for producers to ensure a safer product and help protect their businesses from liability. During this workshop, producers can develop custom allergy control programs for their businesses with the help of local food safety expert Sara Runkel of the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association. Participants will have opportunities to ask questions to ensure that their plans fit the needs of their farm. This workshop will also discuss managing food safety risks and NC regulations for egg producers. |
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2023 Workshops:
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2022 Workshops:
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2020 Workshops: CRAFT events postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. 2019 Workshops:
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2016 Workshops:
2015 Workshops
2018 Workshops
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2017 Workshops:
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