July marks the height of the growing season, when long days, warm temperatures, and steady fieldwork shape the rhythm of farm life. Crops continue to develop, livestock require increased attention during periods of heat, and producers focus on maintaining healthy soils, managing resources, and preparing for upcoming harvests. While the pace of summer can be demanding, it also offers opportunities to evaluate progress, strengthen management practices, and connect with fellow growers. This newsblast highlights educational programs, field days, workshops, and community events designed to support farmers, landowners, and agricultural professionals as they navigate the challenges and rewards of midsummer production.
Note: Green underlined text is a link
Announcements
Southeastern Specialty Crops Technology Needs Assessment
Specialty crop growers and agricultural stakeholders are encouraged to complete the Southeastern Specialty Crops Technology Needs Assessment, a survey led by researchers at NC State University. The purpose of this survey is to better understand the most critical challenges facing specialty crop production across the southeastern United States and to gather input on stakeholder interest in emerging technologies. The survey focuses on topics such as irrigation, nutrient management, labor reduction, pest management, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI). Information collected will help support the development of a multi-state research and Extension proposal focused on specialty crops, including peppers, cabbage, strawberries, and grapes. The survey will remain open until mid-July. For questions or additional information, contact Dr. Emmanuel Torres Quezada at eatorre3@ncsu.edu or Dr. Lorena Lopez at llopezq@ncsu.edu
The Flower Hour Podcast: Farmer-Florist Life & Drying Flowers with Betsy Burch
A new episode of The Flower Hour with Erin Small is now available! In this episode, Erin sits down with Betsy Burch to discuss her journey as a farmer-florist, the rewards and challenges of growing cut flowers, and creative ways flowers can be enjoyed beyond fresh bouquets. Betsy shares lessons learned from her farm, along with insights into drying flowers and their traditional uses in herbal teas and flower-based beverages. This episode offers valuable inspiration and practical knowledge for flower growers, gardeners, and floral enthusiasts alike. Listen on Spotify or watch on YouTube.
Virginia Forest Landowner e-Update Newsletter
Stay informed with the Virginia Forest Landowner e-Update, a free monthly newsletter from the Virginia Forest Landowner Education Program. Each issue provides timely information on forest management, stewardship practices, research updates, educational opportunities, and resources for woodland owners across Virginia. Subscribers also receive updates on upcoming workshops, retreats, webinars, and other forestry-related events designed to support sustainable forest management. To explore past issues or subscribe to future editions, visit the Virginia Forest Landowner Education Program website.
GRASS Program Reopens Enrollment for Virginia Producers
The Grazing for Appalachian Sustainability (GRASS) Project is once again accepting participants and is now available to eligible producers statewide. Led by West Virginia University and supported by USDA funding, this multi-state initiative helps livestock producers implement conservation practices while also contributing to economic, social, and market research focused on sustainable agriculture. Participants may be eligible for financial incentives supporting practices such as silvopasture, alley cropping, prescribed grazing, pasture and hay planting, nutrient management, and tree or shrub establishment. Additional incentives are available for planning, education, reporting, and soil sampling activities. Producers must be current with the Farm Service Agency (FSA), and enrolled properties must have FSA maps on file. An enrollment period is anticipated during July. For more information, visit the GRASS Project website or contact Kate Fotos at katherine.fotos@mail.wvu.edu
Fauquier Education Farm Surpasses 10,000 Pounds Donated in 2026
Fauquier Education Farm Donation Total Continues to Grow The Fauquier Education Farm has now donated more than 11,300 pounds of fresh produce to local food banks during the 2026 growing season. Recent harvests included squash, kohlrabi, cucumbers, broccoli, and kale, with volunteers helping plant hundreds of tomato, watermelon, and pepper plants to support future donations. The farm continues to provide fresh food to families in need while serving as a hub for agricultural education and community engagement.
SARE Highlights Cover Cropping Research in Wide-Row Corn Systems
The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program recently highlighted a farmer-led research project exploring the use of cover crops in wide-row corn production systems. Conducted by Iowa farmer Bob Recker and collaborators through two SARE Farmer/Rancher grants, the project examined how wider corn row spacing could support cover crop growth while maintaining profitability. Results showed improvements in water infiltration, soil organic matter, and opportunities for additional income through inter-row crops and grazing. The project demonstrates how innovative management practices can help improve soil health and farm resilience. Additional information is available through SARE's 2025/2026 Report from the Field and online resource library.
Virginia Farmers Encouraged to Participate in JLARC Agricultural Funding and Technical Assistance Survey
The Virginia Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) is seeking input from farmers across the Commonwealth regarding their experiences with agricultural funding programs and technical assistance services. Survey responses will help inform future discussions and recommendations related to agricultural support programs in Virginia. Producers are encouraged to share their perspectives on the accessibility, effectiveness, and impact of available funding opportunities and technical assistance resources. The survey will remain open through August 3, 2026. Please note that this survey is separate from the Virginia Farm Voluntary Agricultural BMP Inventory Survey currently being conducted by Virginia Cooperative Extension. Farmers can access the survey online through the JLARC survey link.
Solar Grazing Educational Resources
Interested in integrating livestock with solar energy production? A collection of solar grazing resources is now available to help producers explore the growing field of agrivoltaics. These materials include a recorded interview with Jess and Marcus Gray of Gray's LAMB scaping, producer experience videos from Virginia and North Carolina, best management practices for utility-scale solar sites, webinar recordings, and additional educational resources on grazing sheep beneath solar arrays. Producers can also learn more through organizations such as the American Solar Grazing Association and the Solar Farm Summit.
Featured Resources:
Gray's LAMB scaping: https://grayslambscaping.com/
· American Solar Grazing Association
· Gray's LAMB scaping Interview (June 24, 2026)
· Virginia Tech Solar Grazing Producer Videos:
· Soil-Site Management Protocols & Best Management Practices for Utility Scale Solar Site Development and Management in Virginia (Version 2) (see pages 35–36 for forage and grazing considerations)
· Additional Virginia Tech solar resources
· Virginia Tech Sheep Symposium recordings and proceedings
Series
Virginia Beef Cattle University 2026 (Blacksburg, VA)
Virginia Beef Cattle University is a three-day educational program designed to equip beef producers with practical knowledge and skills to strengthen their operations. Through hands-on workshops, educational breakout sessions, and expert-led presentations, participants will explore topics including herd health, nutrition and forages, reproduction, marketing and business management, precision technologies, and meat science. The program also provides opportunities to network with industry professionals, cattle organizations, and agricultural businesses while learning about emerging trends and innovations in beef production. Registration includes all educational sessions, networking events, and meals. Upcoming dates include:
· July 8–10: Virginia Beef Cattle University 2026 (Blacksburg, VA)
For more information and registration details, visit the Virginia Beef Cattle University registration page.
2026 Northern Piedmont Beginning Farmer Program (Warrenton, VA)
The 2026 Northern Piedmont Beginning Farmer Program: An Introduction to Getting Your Hands Dirty offers a six‑week foundation for new growers who want to build confidence in the core skills of successful gardening and small‑scale production. Meeting Monday evenings at the Fauquier Education Farm, the series covers essential topics such as soil science, amendments, crop selection, pest and weed management, and basic infrastructure needs. The course is “a six-week classroom lecture course on some of the basic techniques and concepts that can help you be a better gardener,” giving participants a structured, supportive place to start. For more information, contact Jim Hankins at fauquieredfarm@gmail.com or (540) 336-4338.
Landowner Retreats
Beginning Retreats provide information on hardwood and pine forest management, legacy planning, management planning, and more. Beyond the Basics Retreats take a deep dive into a specific forest management topic. All Retreats combine classroom instruction, field trips, and hands-on activities. Registration opens 10 weeks before events.
· September 11-12: Southeast Virginia Beginning Woodland Owner Retreat (Providence Forge, VA)
Regenerative Practices and Permaculture at Home (Galax, VA)
Located at the Permaculture Garden at Church of the Good Shepherd, located at 9441 Grayson Parkway, Galax, VA 24333. Workshops are free, but registration is required. Please email permaculture@graysonlandcare.org to register or for more information.
· July 11, 1:00 – 4:00 PM: Part Three - Homesteading and Herbal Medicine: Design your homestead for abundance and discover how to utilize your forest and garden for herbal medicines.
360 Cut Flower Discussion Group (Charlotte Court House, VA)
The 360 Cut Flower Discussion Group is a seasonal series designed to connect growers and build skills from field to vase through farm tours, hands-on workshops, and interactive field days. Events will run monthly through September 2026, offering opportunities to learn, share, and grow alongside fellow flower producers. Whether you're just starting out or expanding your operation, this group provides practical knowledge and community support. The upcoming dates in this series are: July 23, August 20, and September 25. For more information or to register, contact Erin Small at (434) 392-0300, erins96@vt.edu.
4 the Soil Highlights
S6 – E12: From Biosolids to Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Lauren Hines-Acosta of the Chesapeake Bay Journal, Part II
Lauren Hines-Acosta returns to continue the conversation on emerging issues shaping agriculture and conservation throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This episode explores concerns surrounding biosolid applications and PFAS ("forever chemicals"), the growing role of artificial intelligence in improving nitrogen use efficiency, and new technologies that help farmers better understand nutrient contributions from cover crop mixtures. The discussion highlights how innovation, research, and conservation practices are helping producers improve soil health while protecting water quality across the region.
S6 – E13: A Life Rooted in Soil Health with Dr. Ray Weil of the University of Maryland
In this special National Soil Health Day episode, the 4 the Soil team welcomes internationally recognized soil scientist Dr. Ray Weil of the University of Maryland. Dr. Weil reflects on his journey into soil science, sharing how his experiences managing an organic farm and decades of cover crop research shaped his passion for building healthier soils. The conversation explores the importance of living roots, plant diversity, soil biology, and working with natural systems to improve soil health, strengthen resilient farming operations, and support long-term agricultural sustainability. Listeners will also discover additional soil health resources, including The Nature and Properties of Soils, co-authored by Dr. Weil, and educational videos that bring soil science to life.
4 the Soil Blog Check out the latest 4 the Soil blog!
July
July 1, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Lavender Farm Tour (Victoria, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for a tour of the lavender fields and value-added operation at Red Fern Farm in Victoria, VA. Farm owner Katrina Wells will discuss lavender harvesting, processing techniques, and the development of value-added products sold through The Barn at Red Fern Farm. Participants will also hear from Tammy Holler, Nutrient Management Specialist, who will cover soil and nutrient requirements for successful lavender production. This tour offers growers and agricultural entrepreneurs an opportunity to learn more about specialty crop production and value-added farm enterprises. For more information, contact Marilyn Estes at (804) 481-0485 or mestes@vsu.edu
July 1, 4:00 PM: Demystifying Organics Workshop & Farm Tour (Keezletown, VA)
Join the Virginia Association for Biological Farming (VABF) at Radical Roots Community Farm for a workshop and farm tour focused on transitioning to certified organic production. Participants will learn about the organic certification process, explore practical steps for transitioning a farm to organic, discover available funding opportunities, and connect with experienced organic farmers and certification professionals. The event includes a guided tour of Radical Roots Community Farm and opportunities to ask questions and share ideas with fellow producers. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required.
July 1, 4:00 PM: Farm Trails and Food Guides: Connecting Community to Regional Farms and Food (Virtual)
Join the Virginia Association for Biological Farming for a virtual discussion on how farm trails and food guides can strengthen connections between local farms, food businesses, and their communities. Participants will learn how these resources help increase visibility for agricultural enterprises, support local food systems, and encourage consumers to engage with regional farms and food producers. This webinar offers farmers, food advocates, and community organizations an opportunity to explore strategies for promoting local agriculture and expanding access to regional food networks. Registration is required.
July 1, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Demystifying Organics Workshop & Farm Tour at Radical Roots Community Farm (Keezletown, VA)
Join the Virginia Association for Biological Farming at Radical Roots Community Farm for an informal workshop and farm tour focused on USDA Organic Certification. Participants will learn about the requirements, benefits, and certification process for organic production while connecting with experienced farmers, certifiers, and agricultural professionals. Discussion topics will include improving market competitiveness, strengthening recordkeeping systems, and accessing funding and technical assistance opportunities available to certified organic producers. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour Radical Roots Community Farm, a certified organic family-run operation that serves more than 200 low-income families through its grant-funded CSA program and wholesale partnerships. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact Jammica Boone at (757) 354-2330 or jammica.boone@vabf.org.
July 2, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Nutrient Management for Small Farmers (Ettrick, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for a workshop focused on nutrient management strategies for small farm operations. Participants will explore how weather variability and seasonal conditions influence nutrient management decisions, with special attention given to managing nitrogen and phosphorus for optimal crop growth while protecting surrounding environmental resources. This educational session will provide practical guidance for improving soil fertility, crop productivity, and environmental stewardship on small farms. For more information, contact Tim Sexton at tsexton@vsu.edu or (804) 524-1028.
July 3, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Dickenson County Farmers Market (Clintwood, VA)
Support local agriculture and connect with regional growers at the Dickenson County Farmers Market in Clintwood, VA. Held every Friday, the market brings together local farmers and producers offering fresh whole foods, handmade goods, and value-added products created within the mountain region. Supported by Virginia Cooperative Extension, the market provides an opportunity to strengthen local food systems while supporting small farms and community well-being through access to locally grown products and community engagement. For more information, contact Wayne Browning at wbrowning@vsu.edu or (804) 760-3932.
July 7, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Farm Service Agency & Crop Insurance Workshop (Verona, VA)
Join representatives from the Farm Service Agency and Southern Risk Management Education Services for a workshop focused on crop insurance and risk management tools for producers in the Southern Shenandoah Valley. Participants will learn about crop insurance basics, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, reporting deadlines, and practical risk management strategies designed for diversified and small-scale farm operations. The session will also highlight decision-making tools and available resources that can help producers strengthen long-term farm resilience and financial stability. For more information, contact Marian Dalke at mdalke@vt.edu or (540) 232-6010.
July 8, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM: Middle Peninsula Producer Conference (Manquin, VA)
Join the Three Rivers Soil and Water Conservation District for the Middle Peninsula Producer Conference at Hollyfield Manor in Manquin, VA. Participants will hear district updates from TRSWCD staff Waring Baylor and Trevor Guy, including information related to conservation and precision agriculture. Jayson Gill, Grain Originator with Perdue Agribusiness, will also provide current grain market insights. The event includes breakfast and conservation updates. RSVP is requested by June 26, 2026. For more information, contact Marley Goodman at marley.goodman@trswcd.org or (804) 443-4027.
July 8, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Pine View Greenhouses Tour (Jarratt, VA)
Come with the Virginia Cooperative Extension for a visit to Pine View Greenhouses, a family-owned greenhouse operation in Jarratt, Virginia known for its wide selection of locally grown flowers, hanging baskets, vegetables, shrubs, tropical plants, and seasonal produce. Participants will learn more about greenhouse production, seasonal plant offerings, and the management practices that support successful specialty crop operations while exploring a business recognized for its quality products and customer service. For more information, contact Garry Banks at gbanks@vsu.edu or (804) 760-3615.
July 8, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Farm Service Agency & Crop Insurance Workshop (Woodstock, VA)
Join representatives from the Farm Service Agency and Southern Risk Management Education Services for a workshop focused on crop insurance and risk management resources for producers in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Participants will learn about crop insurance basics, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, reporting deadlines, and risk management strategies designed to support diversified and small-scale farm operations. The session will also provide practical tools and decision-making resources to help producers strengthen farm resilience and financial planning. For more information, contact Marian Dalke at mdalke@vt.edu or (540) 232-6010.
July 8, 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM: Ruminant Webinar Series: Beef Cattle at VSU (Virtual)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for a monthly webinar series focused on ruminant production and management. This virtual session is designed for farmers, extension agents, educators, and industry professionals interested in improving the success and sustainability of ruminant operations. Participants will hear from expert speakers, gain practical management insights, and have opportunities for Q&A. For more information, contact Jessica Harris at jharris@vsu.edu or (804) 524-5964.
July 9, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Raising Chickens on Your Farm (Petersburg, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension at VSU Randolph Farm for a workshop focused on raising chickens for profitable egg production on small farms. Participants will learn step-by-step management practices for developing a successful poultry operation, including breed selection, production considerations, and strategies for meeting different market demands through value-added egg production. This session is designed to help producers better understand how poultry enterprises can contribute to diversified and sustainable farm income. For more information, contact Grace Summers at gsummers@vsu.edu or (804) 712-0093.
July 10, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: 43560 Project Garden Tour (Petersburg, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension at VSU Randolph Farm for a tour of the 43560 garden project demonstration plot. Participants will learn from experts how to gross $43,560 on a one-acre garden plot while exploring current crops and planning cool-season crops for fall and winter harvest. This tour provides practical insight into small-scale production planning and income opportunities for growers. For more information, contact Tammy Holler at tholler@vsu.edu or (804) 895-9472.
July 11, 4:00 PM: Adding Value: Expanding Sales by Using the Whole Animal (The Plains, VA)
Join Future Harvest at Kinloch Farm Store to learn how value-added products can increase profitability and create new market opportunities. Farm staff will share their experiences developing products such as bone broth, tallow, leather goods, snack sticks, and ready-to-eat meals from 100% grass-fed beef. Participants will also learn about grazing management, farm marketing, and strategies for maximizing the value of livestock products. Registration is required.
July 13, 8:00 – 9:30 AM: Walk & Talk: Trees (Farmville, VA)
Join Jason Fisher, Virginia Cooperative Extension District Agent for Forestry and Natural Resources, for a guided 1.5-mile educational walk along the Wilson Trail at Hampden-Sydney College. Participants will learn tree identification techniques, explore native tree species and their habitats, discuss forest ecology and environmental stewardship, and gain a greater appreciation for the woodlands of Southside Virginia. Attendees are encouraged to bring walking shoes, water, and binoculars if available. This program is free, but registration is requested. For more information or to register, contact Erin Small at erins96@vt.edu or (434) 392-0300.
July 14, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Forestry Basics (Courtland, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Small Farm Outreach Program for a workshop designed to help forest landowners manage timber in a biologically and economically sound way. Participants will learn about current trends and issues affecting forest ownership, including timber markets, timber sales, harvesting dynamics, and unique opportunities for landowners. For more information, contact Garry Banks at gbanks@vsu.edu or (804) 760-3615.
July 14, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Norton Friends and Farmers Market (Norton, VA)
Support local growers and producers at the Norton Friends and Farmers Market, held at the Norton Expo Center. This market brings together small farmers and community vendors offering fresh, whole foods and value-added products grown and created within the mountain region. Held every Tuesday from June through September, the market provides an opportunity to support local agriculture, connect with the community, and purchase fresh, locally produced goods. For more information, contact Wayne Browning at wbrowning@vsu.edu or (804) 760-3932.
July 15, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: On-Farm High Tunnel Field Day (Cape Charles, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for an on-farm field day focused on high tunnel production and healthy crop management. Participants will learn firsthand from a farm using a no-chemical approach to supply fresh produce to local and regional communities through farmers markets, restaurants, and CSAs. The event will also include practical insights on Integrated Pest Management and other mitigation techniques, along with information from NRCS and Rimol Greenhouse Systems on funding opportunities and financial assistance for growers. For more information, contact Ben Dukes at bdukes@vsu.edu or (804) 731-7916, or Helene Doughty at hdoughty@vt.edu or (757) 678-7946, ext. 3.
July 15, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Irrigation and Soil Management (Rapidan, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for a workshop focused on irrigation and soil management for crop production. Participants will learn how to determine irrigation demand, understand crop water needs, identify when plants need water, and assess how much soil moisture is available for plant use. The session will also cover how to conduct an irrigation system audit to evaluate how evenly water is applied to crops. For more information, contact Roland Terrell at rterrell@vsu.edu or (804) 892-4612.
July 15, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: ASD Veteran Coalition Meeting (Bristol, VA)
Military veterans involved or interested in agriculture are invited to attend Appalachian Sustainable Development’s Veteran Coalition Meeting at Michael Waltrip Brewing in Bristol. Held every third Wednesday, these gatherings are designed to strengthen the veteran farming community through networking, practical resource sharing, and collaboration opportunities that support veteran-led agricultural operations. Attendees can connect with fellow veterans, learn more about ASD programs and services, and enjoy free appetizers and soft drinks in a welcoming community environment. For more information, contact Appalachian Sustainable Development at asd@asdevelop.org
July 16, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Strawberry Production for Small Farmers (Petersburg, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension at VSU Randolph Farm for a workshop covering the basics of strawberry production for small farmers and urban growers. Participants will learn about site selection, soil preparation, sourcing plugs and transplants, planting dates, and growing methods for successful strawberry production. This workshop is designed for growers interested in adding strawberries to their farm or garden operation. For more information, contact Grace Summers at gsummers@vsu.edu or (804) 712-0093.
July 24–25: Generation NEXT Legacy Planning Workshop (Warrenton, VA)
Join Generation NEXT, a program of Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Virginia Department of Forestry, for a two-day workshop designed to help farm and forestland owners develop plans to keep their land intact, in agriculture or forestry, and within the family for future generations. Participants will learn from attorneys, accountants, conservation specialists, and fellow landowners while exploring topics such as estate planning, conservation easements, succession planning, family communication, and business structures for land ownership. The program begins with an evening session and dinner on July 24 from 5:00–7:30 PM and continues with a full-day workshop on July 25 from 8:00 AM–4:00 PM at the John Barton Payne Building in Warrenton. Registration is $90 for two family members and $10 for each additional family member and includes dinner, light breakfast, lunch, and a workbook. For more information, contact Karen Snape at (540) 231-6494 or ksnape@vt.edu.
July 28, 8:00 – 9:00 AM: Walk & Talk Landscaping (Farmville, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension for a free guided one-mile walking tour through the Town of Farmville led by Town Horticulturalist Jay Wilkerson. Participants will explore a variety of landscaping bed styles, discuss plant selection and landscape design principles, and learn seasonal maintenance practices used throughout the community. The program will also cover ways to enhance home and farm landscapes while providing opportunities to connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts and ask questions along the way. The walk begins at the Farmville Farmers Market Parking Lot and is open to all community members. For more information or to register, contact Erin Small at erins96@vt.edu or (434) 392-0300.
July 22, 11:30 AM: Blue Ridge PRISM Summer Meeting Featuring Ethan Tapper, Author of The Forest Year (Virtual)
Join Blue Ridge PRISM for its summer quarterly meeting featuring Ethan Tapper, bestselling author, forester, and ecologist from Vermont. Tapper will provide a preview of the ideas explored in his upcoming book, The Forest Year: Finding Hope in a World Worth Saving, scheduled for publication this fall. This virtual presentation will explore themes of forest stewardship, ecological resilience, conservation, and the relationship between people and the natural world. The event offers valuable insights for forest landowners, natural resource professionals, conservationists, and anyone interested in sustainable land management. Registration is required.
July 22, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Growers Academy – Cut Flowers: Growing Beauty in Your Garden (Warrenton, VA)
Join the Fauquier Education Farm for an evening workshop exploring the benefits and opportunities of growing cut flowers. Whether you're interested in enhancing your home garden or developing a small-scale farm enterprise, participants will learn about flower varieties well-suited for cut flower production and the management practices used to grow them successfully. This free workshop is open to the public and no registration is required.
July 22: Cut Flower Pest & Disease Field Day (Leesburg, VA)
Save the date for an upcoming field day at Far Bungalow Flower Farm focused on pest and disease management in cut flower production. Participants will have the opportunity to learn practical strategies for maintaining healthy flower crops, improving production quality, and managing common pest and disease challenges throughout the growing season. Additional details and registration information will be announced soon.
July 23, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: 360 Cut Flower Discussion Group – Session 3: Day of Design! (Lovingston, VA)
Join fellow flower growers at Poplar Flats Farm for Session 3 of the 360 Cut Flower Discussion Group, focused on enhancing the visual appeal and marketability of cut flower businesses. Participants will learn how to create eye-catching farm stand displays with Yvette Kisling, explore floral design techniques and tips with Virginia Cooperative Extension Agent Erin Small, and discuss strategies for adding value to flower sales through effective presentation and branding. Attendees will also have the opportunity to create and take home a floral arrangement while networking with other growers over lunch. The workshop will be held at Poplar Flats Farm, located at 134 Poplar Flats Road, Lovingston, VA 22949. Registration is $40 and includes lunch. For more information or to register, contact the Prince Edward County Extension Office at (434) 392-0300 or erins96@vt.edu
July 30: Save the Date – Loving Cup Vineyard Educational Farm Tour (Virginia)
The Virginia Association for Biological Farming (VABF) invites producers and agricultural professionals to save the date for an educational farm tour at Loving Cup Vineyard. Participants can look forward to learning about sustainable farming practices while networking with other growers and members of Virginia's biological farming community. Additional event information and registration details will be released closer to the event. For updates, visit the Virginia Association for Biological Farming website.
August
August 1, 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM: Food Preservation Conference (Wytheville, VA)
Food preservation methods such as canning, fermentation, dehydration, and freezing are great ways to keep food fresh throughout the year! Make sure that you are doing it safely by attending Virginia Cooperative Extension's Food Preservation Conference on August 1st, 2026, at the Wytheville Meeting Center. Pick from over 15 sessions, from beginning water bath canning to curing a ham! The cost of this event is $60, which includes lunch and access to pick from 15 high-quality educational sessions.
August 5, 1:00 PM (ET): Where'd You Get That? Tools, Materials, and Suppliers (Virtual)
Join the Virginia Beginning Farmer & Rancher Coalition for a webinar with Jim Hankins, Executive Director of the Fauquier Education Farm, exploring practical strategies for sourcing farm tools, equipment, materials, and supplies. Participants will learn where the Education Farm purchases essential items, discover vendor recommendations and sourcing options, and gain practical tips for selecting cost-effective tools and materials for their own gardening and farming operations. This webinar is ideal for beginning farmers, gardeners, and anyone looking to make informed purchasing decisions. Registration is required. For more information, contact Katie Trozzo at ketrozzo@vt.edu or (540) 232-2233.
August 5, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Growers Academy – Farmscaping (Warrenton, VA)
Learn how strategic plantings can support beneficial insects and strengthen natural pest management systems during this Growers Academy workshop at the Fauquier Education Farm. Participants will explore how flowers and diverse plantings can attract pollinators and predatory insects, helping create a healthier and more resilient growing environment. This free workshop is open to the public, and no registration is required.
August 6, 5:00 PM: Plow and Stars Farm Pasture Walk (Poolesville, MD)
Join Future Harvest, the Million Acre Challenge, and University of Maryland Extension for a twilight pasture walk focused on regenerative grazing systems and soil health. Participants will explore multi-species grazing, virtual fencing technology, silvopasture, and the transition of conventional cropland to regenerative agriculture. The program will also feature a demonstration of the Maryland Soil Health Card and discussions on improving pasture productivity, nutrient cycling, and long-term farm resilience. Registration is required. Rain date: August 13.
August 8: Ed Farm Festival (Warrenton, VA)
Celebrate the Fauquier Education Farm during this free community event featuring educational activities, farm experiences, and opportunities to connect with local agriculture. Vendor information will be announced closer to the event date.
August 19, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: ASD Veteran Coalition Meeting (Bristol, VA)
Military veterans involved or interested in agriculture are invited to attend Appalachian Sustainable Development’s Veteran Coalition Meeting at Michael Waltrip Brewing in Bristol. Held every third Wednesday, these gatherings are designed to strengthen the veteran farming community through networking, practical resource sharing, and collaboration opportunities that support veteran-led agricultural operations. Attendees can connect with fellow veterans, learn more about ASD programs and services, and enjoy free appetizers and soft drinks in a welcoming community environment. For more information, contact Appalachian Sustainable Development at asd@asdevelop.org
August 19, 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Growers Academy – Fall Cool Season Crops (Warrenton, VA)
Discover how to extend your growing season during this Growers Academy workshop focused on fall cool-season crop production. Participants will learn about crop selection, planting schedules, and management practices that can support harvests well into late fall and early winter. This free workshop is open to the public and no registration is required.
August 12–14: Amaranth Institute Symposium 2026 (La Conner & Mount Vernon, WA)
The Amaranth Institute Symposium 2026 will bring together researchers, educators, farmers, students, and industry professionals to explore the latest research, production practices, and innovative uses of Amaranthus species. The symposium will feature plenary presentations, oral and poster sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions that promote collaboration across the amaranth research and agricultural community. Researchers interested in presenting should note that plenary presentation abstracts are due July 15, while oral and poster abstracts, along with member registration, are due July 30. Additional registration and symposium information is available through the Amaranth Institute.
September 15–16: Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Summit East 2026 (Danville, VA)
Join growers, researchers, Extension professionals, and industry leaders at the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Summit East 2026 at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) Conference Center in Danville, Virginia. This two-day conference will feature educational sessions on greenhouse production, indoor and vertical farming, hydroponics, protected cropping systems, food safety, pest management, automation, data management, and business development. Attendees will also have opportunities to network with industry professionals, explore vendor exhibits, learn from grower and research showcases, and tour the Virginia Tech and IALR CEA Innovation Center. Extension scholarship opportunities and grower registration discounts are available. For more information and registration details, visit the CEA Summit East website. Applications close July 8th.
August 20, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Naturally Grounded: Urban Ag & Cash Crops (Petersburg, VA)
This workshop introduces urban agriculture and agroforestry as strategies for economic development and sustainability. Participants will explore food systems, crop planning, and the use of non-timber forest products. Teaching urban agriculture through hands-on, GIS-integrated, and community-based methods involves transforming vacant lots into productive green spaces, using data to optimize crop yields, and engaging local stakeholders. Effective programs utilize working farms as classrooms, apply spatial analysis to identify viable land, and focus on high-value cash crops such as microgreens, culinary herbs, and gourmet mushrooms.
August 24, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Pathways 2 Progress: Workforce Readiness (Petersburg, VA)
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension at Virginia State University for a workforce readiness workshop designed to help participants build skills for workplace success. This session will include career assessments, professional headshots, and financial literacy resources to support personal and professional development. The workshop will take place in Room 300 of the L. Douglas Wilder Building. For more information, contact Novita Epps at nepps@vsu.edu or (804) 524-5836.
Fall
September 12: Feast from the Field (Warrenton, VA)
The Fauquier Education Farm's annual fundraiser, hosted by Moriah Farm, returns September 12. The event will feature dinner, beverages, live music, auctions, raffles, and opportunities to support the farm's food access and educational programming. Ticket and sponsorship information will be available soon.
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Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.
