Important details about this year's school CHOOSE FROM OVER 60 CLASSES! MORE WORKSHOPS THAN EVER BEFORE! and at Blue Ridge Community College Flat Rock, NC in Western North Carolina, 30 minutes from Asheville Pre-register by March 1 and save $. Table of Contents: 3rd Annual Children’s Program Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions Sponsors and Exhibitors Saturday Class Schedule Sunday On-Farm Workshop Registration Details Directions Registration Form The event held every March known as The Organic Growers School is organized by The Organic Growers School, INC., a 501(c) 3 tax-exempt organization. Your registration fee goes directly to funding this and other Organic Growers School educational activities. Please direct any correspondence to: OGS Board of Directors |455 Research Drive | Fletcher | NC | 28732 A Day of Workshops for beginning gardeners to advanced commercial growers. – Half-day hands-on work- shops and cooking classes will be held to a limited capacity and require an additional $5 registration fee per workshop. Check space availability for these work- shops and classes online at www.organicgrowerss- chool.org before registering or contact the registrar. The Organic Growers School is proud to present the 3rd annual program for kids. This supervised full-day event is open to children ages 7-12 years old, with a registration limit of 30. If you register a child for the children’s program, and it has met capacity, you will be contacted by the OGS office and refunded the registration amount and your entire registration amount (accompanying adults) should you choose not to attend as a result. Check space availability for the children’s program online at www.organicgrowersschool.org before registering or contact the registrar. See full details about the kids track on page 2 of this flyer. If you have a disability and forsee the need for assistance while attending the Ogranic Growers School, please contact Coordinator, Meredith McKissick before March 1st. This will enable us to better serve you on the day of the event. The continued success of the Organic Growers School is dependent upon YOUR HELP. If you are interested in volunteering for this year’s school please contact Coordinator Meredith McKissick at (828) 342-5333 or info@organ- icgrowersschool.org and sign up. A four hour shift equals a $40 registration (lunch not included). Pre-register by March 1 and you can sign up for our $10 lunch buffet provided by Greenlife Grocery (details on back page). If you don’t want the catered lunch and wish to join the Organic Growers School in celebrating area chefs and restau- rants, you can purchase freshly prepared food using organic and local ingredients from Rosetta’s Kitchen, West End Bakery and Urban Burrito. Plan to bring some $1s and $5s to spend on lunch if you decide not to opt for the catered buffet. Lunch for speakers and attending sponsors will be provided by Greenlife Grocery. Snacks this year will be delicious homemade goodies provided by The Youth Fresh Food Initiative as well as McDowell County, Henderson County, and Buncombe County 4H clubs! Bring some change for snacks and support these great programs! Complimentary hot tea and coffee will be available throughout the day thanks to The Dripolator Coffeehouse, Hendersonville Community Co-op, Earthfare and the French Broad Food Co-op. Please help us minimize the waste created by this event by bring- ing your own mug for coffee, tea, and drinks throughout the day, plus a fork and spoon for lunch. 2007 Registration Register at www.organicgrowersschool.org or mail form on page eleven! 2 2 2 3 4-9 9 10 10 11 Contact the Organic Growers School at (828) 342-5333 or email [email protected]
Transcript
Important details about this year's schoolCHOOSE FROM OVER 60 CLASSES! MORE WORKSHOPS THAN EVER BEFORE! NEW TRACKS THIS YEAR: Urban Growing and Sustainable Forestry.
at Blue Ridge Community CollegeFlat Rock, NCin Western North Carolina, 30 minutes from AshevillePre-register by March 1 and save $.
Table of Contents:3rd Annual Children’s Program Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions Sponsors and Exhibitors Saturday Class Schedule Sunday On-Farm Workshop Registration Details DirectionsRegistration Form
The event held every March known as The Organic Growers School is organized by The Organic Growers School, INC., a 501(c) 3tax-exempt organization. Your registration fee goes directly to funding this and other Organic Growers School educational
activities. Please direct any correspondence to: OGS Board of Directors |455 Research Drive | Fletcher | NC | 28732
A Day of Workshops for beginning gardeners to advanced commercial growers.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
WORKSHOP CAPACITY – Half-day hands-on work-shops and cooking classes will be held to a limitedcapacity and require an additional $5 registration feeper workshop. Check space availability for these work-shops and classes online at www.organicgrowerss-chool.org before registering or contact the registrar.
CHiLDREN’S PROGRAM – The Organic GrowersSchool is proud to present the 3rd annual program forkids. This supervised full-day event is open to childrenages 7-12 years old, with a registration limit of 30. Ifyou register a child for the children’s program, and ithas met capacity, you will be contacted by the OGSoffice and refunded the registration amount and yourentire registration amount (accompanying adults)should you choose not to attend as a result. Checkspace availability for the children’s program online atwww.organicgrowersschool.org before registering orcontact the registrar. See full details about the kidstrack on page 2 of this flyer. Disabled? If you have a disability and forsee the needfor assistance while attending the Ogranic GrowersSchool, please contact Coordinator, MeredithMcKissick before March 1st. This will enable us to better serve you on the day of the event.
Calling All VOLUNTEERS! The continued success ofthe Organic Growers School is dependent uponYOUR HELP. If you are interested in volunteering forthis year’s school please contact CoordinatorMeredith McKissick at (828) 342-5333 or [email protected] and sign up. A four hour shiftequals a $40 registration (lunch not included).
LUNCH: Pre-register by March 1 and you can sign up for our$10 lunch buffet provided by Greenlife Grocery (details on backpage). If you don’t want the catered lunch and wish to join theOrganic Growers School in celebrating area chefs and restau-rants, you can purchase freshly prepared food using organicand local ingredients from Rosetta’s Kitchen, West End Bakeryand Urban Burrito. Plan to bring some $1s and $5s to spend onlunch if you decide not to opt for the catered buffet. Lunch forspeakers and attending sponsors will be provided by GreenlifeGrocery. Snacks to support local youth: Snacks this year will be delicioushomemade goodies provided by The Youth Fresh Food Initiativeas well as McDowell County, Henderson County, andBuncombe County 4H clubs! Bring some change for snacks andsupport these great programs! Hot Tea and Coffee: Complimentary hot tea and coffee will beavailable throughout the day thanks to The DripolatorCoffeehouse, Hendersonville Community Co-op, Earthfare andthe French Broad Food Co-op.Bring your own mug and Utensils: Please help usminimize the waste created by this event by bring-ing your own mug for coffee, tea, and drinksthroughout the day, plus a fork and spoon forlunch.
2007 RegistrationRegister at www.organicgrowersschool.org or mail form on page eleven!
22234-99101011
Contact the Organic Growers School at (828) 342-5333 or email
The 2007 Organic Growers School is pleased to present the3rd Annual Children's Program
Agriculture and the EnvironmentThe 2007 Organic Growers School is pleased to present the 3rd Annual Children’sProgram, centered on the importance of agriculture and theenvironment. Children will spend the day learning aboutlivestock, plants, soil, insects, energy, and healthy foodthrough an array of hands-on activities through-out the day. The program is open to boys and girls ages 7-12, and isoffered to the first 30 participants to register. Snacks will be provided by CynthiaBushoven of Fresh Abundance*.
Contact Us!
Information and registration available onlineat: www.organicgrowersschool.orgFor registration and attendanceinquiries, contact OGS Registrar,Karen Vizzina email: [email protected]: (828)369-2375Mailing address: Karen Vizzina, 926 WelchRd. Franklin, NC 28734. For sponsor, exhibitor, food vendor,speaker, and volunteer inquiries, contactCoordinator, Meredith Leigh McKissickemail: [email protected]: (828)342-5333. Mailing address is: Meredith McKissick,Organic Growers School, 1623 MountHebron Rd. Old Fort, NC 28762.
Answers to Frequently AskedQuestions (FAQs)Q: Can I register for just a class or two and not the whole day?
A: Because we try to keep things bothaffordable ($40 for an entire day-long con-ference!) and simple, we regret that we can-not offer partial registrations.Q: What about my kids?
A: This year we are excited to once againoffer a kids track for ages 7-12. Kids 13 andolder are welcome to attend the regularadult learning sessions. The OrganicGrowers School is not able to offer child-care, so leave the littlest ones at home andsign 'em up when they reach 7!Q: Can I register online?A: Yes, at organicgrowersschool.org witha credit card. There is also a printable regis-tration form on the site if you would prefer toprint it out and mail with a check. Q: Can I register the day of the event?
A: Yes, but it's more expensive. Late reg-istration, meaning those postmarked March2 or later, or on the day of the schoolbetween 7:30 and 8:30am, is an additional$15. So save money by planning ahead.Register now!
8:30 AM REGISTRATION AND DROP-OFF9:00 AM WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION
MORNING SESSION9:15 AM Garden Security
Fool the birds and protect your garden by making your ownscarecrow and dressing it up with your old clothes, with DavidGrimsley.
Local Food & Farm JeopardyTest your knowledge and win prizes, with Molly Nicholie ofASAP’s Growing Minds.
Message in a BottleLearn about ecosystems and create a plant terrarium, withDan and Jessica deBettencourt of Johnston ElementarySchool.
12:00- 2:00 PM LUNCH WITH PARENTS
AFTERNOON SESSION2:00 PM How Funky is Your Chicken?
Learn about types of chickens, the special adaptations ofchickens, and why chickens are such a popular domesticanimal, with Casey McKissick and students from BuncombeCommunity School.
Stop Bugging MeEnjoy an interactive game and learn about insects and theirplace in the ecosystem with Rachel Reeser of EvergreenCommunity Charter School.
Soaking in the SunLearn to build a solar oven, and then use it to bake yourafternoon snack, with Cynde Bushoven of Fresh Abundance.
The Worms Crawl InCreate your own vermicompost starter kit and learn how tofeed kitchen scraps to the worms, with Karen Joslin andstudents from the Warren Wilson College Garden.
*Fresh Abundance is a personalized catering service dedicated to working with clients to create individualized & creative menus. Because every event withfood should be special, we feature locally produced and seasonally fresh foods. We also offer unique jams, jellies, pickles, and baked goods.2
BackHome Magazine • The Dripolator Coffeehouse Global Organics Specialty Source Inc.• Hendersonville Community Co-op
Rosetta’s Kitchen • Urban Burrito • West End Bakery If you would like to be an Exhibitor, Food Vendor, or Sponsor, contact OGS Coordinator Meredith McKissick at [email protected] or (828) 342-5333.
The Sustainable FarmingProgram
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Please support our sponsors with your patronage:Bountiful Sponsors ( $1000 +)
Harvest Sponsors ( $500 +)
Soilbuilder Sponsors ( $250 +)
Friends ( $100 +)
The Beattie Foundation
Thank You!
14th Annual Organic Growers School • Saturday March 10, 20077:30 - 8:30 REGISTRATION • Visit Exhibits and Seed Exchange
How to Save Heirloom Seeds Cricket Rakita, Saving Our Seed
Project, CFSAMany open-pollinated, heirloom vegetables have qualities that you won’tfind in today’s hybrid varieties. Learnabout some of the best varieties to growand how you can save the seeds.
Low Maintenance, No-DigLandscaping and Flower
Borders Robyn Cammer, Frog HollerOrganiksLearn to build your garden without digging, and to maintain a healthy,weed-free garden without the use ofchemicals. Also learn to attract worms toyour garden and encourage them towork for you.
Easy Raised Beds for HighPerformance Jeff Ashton, Author
and GardenerRaised beds can be an efficient and productive method for growing plants.Learn some of the best ways to buildand manage beds to produce an abundance of vegetables
Growing Blackberries andRaspberries Walter Harrill,
Imladris FarmsBerries are a natural choice for growingin the mountains of the Carolinas. Learnthe basics of growing blackberries andraspberries from a local berry farmer,including planting, pruning, harvesting,and propagation.
TRACKsession1
9:00 to10:30
session211:00 to
12:30
session32:00 to
3:30
session44:00 to
5:30
Back by Popular Demand BEGINNING GardeningA1A
2A
3A
4A
Sustainable Garden Planning &Design Andy Brown, Equinox
Environmental Planning & DesignThis session will teach you how to usenative plants, water conservation, andother sustainable design techniques tocreate an attractive garden, minimizeenvironmental impact, and enhancehabitat.
Organic Beekeeping GregRogers, Haw Creek Honey, & Eric
Brown, Brushy Mountain Bee FarmBeekeeping can be a rewarding hobby.Attend this informative session to learnhow to be successful in organic beekeeping.
Home-scale Composting Brian Rosa, NCDENR
Composting is a great way to feed yoursoil and make home gardening easier.Attend this session and learn how toimprove your soil and your crops withhome-made compost.
Integrated Pest Managementfor Beginners Jere Brittain,
Retired ProfessorThis session will discuss the history anduse of Integrated Pest Management ingardening. Beginners will learn how tomonitor pest activity and how to deter-mine timing and need for pest control,with an emphasis on organic production.
B1B
2B
3B
4B
Nurturing Healthy Soils
Farmscale Soil Care &Equipment Choices Bryan
Green, CEFS & Ken Fager, NCSUCenter for Environmental Farming FarmManager Brian Green and NCSUResearcher Ken Fager will discuss top-ics such as cover cropping, crop rota-tion, no-till production, minimum tillagesystems, fallowing and equipment usedto implement these practices.
No-Till, Low-Till, and BeneficialInsects Patryk Battle, Sparkling
Earth Farm, & Keith Baldwin, NC A&TUniversityExperienced researchers and producerswill discuss how minimal tillage systemsfunction, the benefits and drawbacksobserved, equipment used, beneficialinsect habitat development, and more.
Growin’ Green Manure Alex Hitt, Peregrine Farm
Wondering which cover crops will be themost beneficial in your farming system?There are many choices when it comesto green manures, and many ways touse them. Come and learn from Alex ashe discusses various cover crops heuses on the farm and why he has chosen them.
Farm Composting 101: HotPiles Brian Rosa, Organic
Recycling Specialist, NCDENR & PatrykBattle, Sparkling Earth FarmGood compost is at the heart and soulof any sustainable farming system andone of the very best things you can doto feed your soil and keep a healthy balance of microbes thriving. This session will cover the basics of how tobuild, maintain, and use the compostmade on your farm.
7:30 - 8:30 REGISTRATION • Visit Exhibits and Seed Exchange
New and Aspiring Farmers
Access to Capital David Lee,Carolina Farm Credit, Joyce
Harrison, Self-Help Credit Union, & FredWaldkoetter, Mountain MicroEnterpriseLoan FundIn this session, three local leaders willdiscuss all aspects of financing for yourfarm operation. Topics include how toprepare a loan request package, howlenders analyze loans, and a questionand answer period.
Access to Land Andrew Branan, North Carolina
Farm Transition NetworkThis session will discuss various strategies for new farmers’ access toland with emphasis on farmland transitions. Learn how NCFTN assistsin ensuring productive farms as the landpasses from one generation to the next.
Access to Markets Kate Slattery& Peter Marks, Appalachian
Sustianable Agriculture Project Kate Slattery and Peter Marks of theAppalachian Sustainable AgricultureProject will present an overview ofregional market demand for local foodand tips on basic business practices tohelp new farmers in these markets.
New Farmer RoundtableSpeaker TBA
Join a panel of “green and seasoned”farmers and agriculture experts for dis-cussion on issues facing new farmerstoday, including Q&A, hard lessonslearned, and a CD-ROM of valuableonline resources for the New Farmer.
D1D
2D
3D
4D
Alternative Energy Options
Sustainable Energy EconomicsNed Ryan Doyle, SE Energy &
Environmental ExpoThis session will discuss sustainableenergy options in light of our currenteconomic and energy system. Ned willdiscuss environmental and economicrelationships as well as practical optionsfor the individual.
Biodiesel: Introduction andOverview Brian Winslett, Blue
Ridge BiofuelsThis session will discuss how biodieselis made, how it’s used, social and political obstacles, use in the home, andother types of biofuels. Brian will alsotalk about environmental incentives andimparts of burning this fuel.
Wind Energy in North CarolinaBrent Summerville, Appalachian
State UniversityNorth Carolina has outstanding windresources that are shared with only afraction of the nation. This session willdiscuss affordability, efficiency, andaccessibility for NC homes, farms, businesses, schools, and utilities.
Harnessing Solar Energy DavidWallace, State Energy Office
In this session, you’ll learn about solarenergy systems for heat and electricityin your home or on your farm. This session will discuss design basics,proper application, and tax and financialincentives.
E1E
2E
3E
4E
Commercial Farmers*
Mixing of the Salads JoeBassett, Clemson University
This session will focus on productionmethods of salad greens in the green-house. Varieties, fertilization, and pestmanagement will be discussed.
Passive Solar GreenhouseResearch & Design Dr. Terry
Carroll, Appalachian State University
Energy efficient passive solar green-houses are designed to harness thesun’s energy for both light and heat andcan reduce growers’ greenhouse heat-ing costs by 90%. This presentation willillustrate three main passive greenhousedesigns.
Post-Harvest ManagementTechniques for Quality Produce
Bryan Green, CEFS & Steve Moore, NCA&T University
This session will focus on small farmpost-harvest management techniques.Specific discussions will center on getting produce to market, working withpresentation, knowing the differentrequirements of buyers, and seasonalityversus long term storage.
Basic Drip Irrigation & FertilizerInjections Jason Graham,
Gra-Mac Distributing Co.
This session will cover the advantagesof different types of drip systems, pumpsources, filtration concerns, flow rates,manual versus automatic systems, anda look at some injection pumps for fertilizers.
* This track is for professional growers who are already growing or intend to grow products for sale; speakers in these sessions may defer very basic questions to the breaks.
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14th Annual Organic Growers School • Saturday March 10, 20077:30 - 8:30 REGISTRATION • Visit Exhibits and Seed Exchange
Principles and Practices ofOrganic Pest Management
Robin Kohanowich, Central CarolinaCommunity CollegeThis session is an introduction to pestmanagement terminology, principles andpractices. Organic certification regula-tions will be discussed. This session isintended to provide background information for the pest management workshops that follow.
Weed Ecology and the DirtyDozen Joe Allawos, Sugar Creek
Farm OrganicsThis session will provide an overview ofweed ecology and how it relates toweed management. Management practices for some of the more commonweeds in this area will also be discussed.
Disease Epidemiology and theDirty Dozen Mark Boudreau,
Hebert Green AgroecologyThis session will provide an overview ofdisease epidemiology and how it relatesto disease management. Managementpractices for some of the more commondiseases in this area will also be discussed.
Insect Pest Management andthe Dirty Dozen Speaker TBA
This session will provide an overview ofcommon insect pests and their lifecycles and how this relates to pest management on your farm or in yourgarden. Management practices for themore common pests in our area will be discussed.
TRACKsession1
9:00 to10:30
session211:00 to
12:30
session32:00 to
3:30
session44:00 to
5:30
Pest Management LivestockG1G
2G
3G
4G
High Tensile Fence PrimerChase Hubbard, Warren Wilson
CollegeLearn how to build inexpensive electricfence for managing your animals.Chase will share tried and true methodsfor easy to install fencing that lasts whileallowing for greater flexibility in grazingmanagement.
This session To Be Announced
Check online at www.organicgrowersschool.org forupdates.
Don Schrider, American LivestockBreeds ConservancyBiosecurity is a management tool thatcan help protect your livestock investment from threat of disease.Participants will receive a certificate ofattendance and materials to personalizea biosecurity plan to fit their own farm.
Chicken Meat and EggSelection Clinic Don Schrider,
American Livestock BreedsConservancyThis session will provide attendants withthe opportunity to learn how to bestselect and breed productive poultry fromwithin their own flocks using well documented, tried and true assessmentpoints.
H1H
2H
3H
4H
Sustainable Forestry
The History of SouthernAppalachian Forests John
Palmer, Haywood Community CollegeThis session will present a slide show ofhistoric photos of mountain forests.From the forest primeval through today,photos will show how human impact onand use of the forest has changed theface of the Southern Appalachians.
Threats to SouthernAppalachian Forests Steven
Shaper, Great Smokey MountainsNational ParkThis session will cover non-native plantsand insects in the SouthernAppalachians. Identification, specificthreats, and effective control methodswill be covered.
Working Forest ConservationEasements Tom Craven,
Triangle Land ConservancyThis session will cover the options available to landowners who are considering conservation easements.Specifically, a spectrum of less restrictive easement types will be discussed, detailing the benefits andcosts of each.
Local Wood: The Future ofSustainable Forestry Richard Sanders,Warren Wilson College, & Andy Bennett,Doubletree FarmsThis session will cover the options available to forest landowners in themountains for gaining income from theirforest. The focus will be on sustainabletimber harvest and on farm processingof lumber and firewood.
7:30 - 8:30 REGISTRATION • Visit Exhibits and Seed Exchange
Permaculture
The Meaning of PermaculturePatricia Allison, Earthaven
EcoVillage Permaculture is about a whole lot morethan mulch beds, natural building, andchicken tractors. By using Permacultureprinciples we can design the social/cultural landscape which will supportand enhance our physical sustainability.
Creating a Permaculture UrbanHomestead, Including Home
Orcharding Andrew Goodheart Brown,Barefoot GardensLearn the basics of converting a delinquent landscape (grass yard) into avibrant, healthy, diverse Garden ofEden, with a focus on home orchardssuitable for WNC.
Cultivating the Future:Engaging Children in the
Landscape Chuck Marsh, Useful PlantsNursery
This workshop will explore strategies forimplementing kid friendly landscapeswith suggested plants, easy to build garden structures, and water features.
Good Weeds, Bad Weeds, andInvasive Exotics Joe Hollis,
Mountain GardensMany of the most useful plants can beproblematic in a Permaculture (perennial)setting. Join Joe in a discussion of weed types, specificspecies, simple control and coexistencetechniques (including marketing!), andthe philosophy of weeds.
J1J
2J
3J
4J
Medicinal Herbs
Sustainability & Collection ofForest Botanical Products Gary
Kauffman, National Forests in NorthCarolinaMedicinal Plants, horticultural species, floralgreens, and culinary plants are harvested inthe National Forests in North Carolina. Thissession will describe the permitting processand discuss ongoing mentoring studies,including experimental harvests, to maintainsustainable collections.
Making It With Medicinals AmyHamilton & Libby Hinsley,
Medicinal Herbs for CommerceJoin this important discussion about enter-ing the medicinal herb marketplace andsucceeding as a grower. Topics willinclude harvesting, drying, analytical test-ing, and other quality assurance issuescritical to any grower interested in growingmedicinal herbs for commercial sale.
Growing Oriental Herbs inWestern North Carolina
Joe Hollis, Mountain GardensGinseng is only one example of the connection between our flora and ecologyand that of East Asia. Joe will discusssome potential crops for our area, as wellas current marketing efforts and opportunities.
Mountain Roots Mimi Middleton, Mountain Spirit School
of HerbalismCome learn an ethical approach to themedicinal uses of our native mountainroots. In this session we will explore thefolkloric uses of Ginseng, Goldenseal,Yellowroot, Sassafrass, Solomon’s Seal,Bloodroot, Black Cohosh, and Wild Yam.
K1K
2K
3K
4K
Urban Growing
Urban Gardening in the U.S.Turtle, Bountiful Cities Project
Drawing from his experience working inAsheville’s urban gardens, Turtle willpresent an overview of the diversity ofurban gardens in the U.S. and discusseffective ways to meet the challenges offarming in urban areas.
Urban Soil Management LauraLengnick, Warren Wilson College
Compaction, poor drainage and heavymetal contamination are common soilmanagement challenges faced by urbangardeners. Laura will present some recommended practices and provideuseful technical resources for creatinghealthy soils in urban landscapes.
Grow Biointensive JeffreyMcConnaughey, Warren Wilson
CollegeBiointensive agriculture uses small-scale,human-powered practices to producediverse crops and healthy soils in fragmented landscapes. Learn how toproduct vegetables year-round!
Livestock in the City BrendaSears, Asheville Animal Services,
& Steve Arpin, West Asheville Farmer
Urban gardening with livestock can be achallenge! Learn about the regulationsgoverning livestock keeping within citylimits from an Asheville Animal Servicesofficer and hear some livestock keepingtips from a West Asheville farmer.
14th Annual Organic Growers School • Saturday March 10, 20077:30 - 8:30 REGISTRATION
Landscaping for Water QualityProtection Diane Silver & Cliff
Ruth, NC Cooperative ExtensionWith tremendous development pressurein Western North Carolina, stormwaterrunoff is a critical water quality issue.Landscaping for stormwater is an important tool for protecting surfacewater. This session will offer plantspecifics for rain gardens other similarpractices.
Natural Landscaping TerryDalton, NC Arboretum
You can create beautiful meadows, riparian, or woodland landscapes withnative species suited for your site. Inthis session we will also discuss methods to greatly reduce or eliminateusage of fertilizers, herbicides, irrigation,pesticides, and maintenance for theselocations.
NurseryThis session is designed for horticulturalinterests that go beyond the showy,floriferous plant collections. Landscapeplants offering edible treats for humansand wildlife alike will be explored on aregional level.
Arboriculture 101 TonyMorrison, NC Arboretum
This course will cover the basics in treeselection, planting, care and removal.Understanding these fundamentals caneliminate any need for the gardener orhomeowner to use chemicals.
Spring Time Garden DelightsMichael Gentry, Everyone Cooks!
Join Chef Michael Gentry as he prepares savory treats including SpringHerb Congee, Ramp Pesto, Day LilyKimchi, Aloo Chat, Nettle Tea withAgave nectar, and Marzipan balls.Smell, sample, and take home recipes.
The Daily Grind: Fresh Grainsand Flatbreads for Everyday
Diana S. McCall, Swannanoa School ofCulinary ArtsIn this session we will learn about thenutritional value of fresh ground grainsand experience a hands-on demonstra-tion of grain grinding and flatbread mak-ing using rice, chickpeas, wheat, andbuckwheat.
Which Cheese Please? AndrewGoodheart Brown, Barefoot
Gardens, & Chad Underwood, GreenlifeGroceryThis session will discuss what cheesesto use for which applications. Samplesof several tasty varieties will beavailable.
RAW! Marc Williams, SwannanoaSchool of Culinary Arts
This class will focus on the tasty andnutritious products available from rawfoods. Demonstrations will include foodfrom juicing, sprouting, and other tech-niques. We will also discuss benefitsand considerations of raw foods.
N1N
2N
3N
4N
10:30 - 11:00 Morning Break
12:30 - 2:00 Lunch
3:30 - 4:00 Afternoon Break
*Half-day, hands-onworkshops and cooking classes require pre-registrationby March 1 and anextra $5 registration fee per class/workshop. Sign up at:www.organicgrowersschool.org
Morning half-dayworkshops run from9am - 12:30 with a halfhour break at 10:30. Afternoon half-dayworkshops run from2pm - 5:30pm with a half hour break at 3:30. Check workshopavailability at ourwebsite:www.organicgrowersschool.org
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Fermenting Garden Vegetables Sandor Ellix Katz,Author CLASS LIMIT=15
Fermentation techniques evolved alongside agricultural prac-tices; they preserve food, add nutrients, and create compellingflavors. This hand-on workshop will demystify fermentation. Wewill prepare ferments and learn about their health benefits andthe incredible diversity of them consumed around the globe.
Building with Stone in the Landscape David Reed, AuthorCLASS LIMIT= 30
Stones in the garden bring beauty and harmony to the landscapein any season. Here is a chance to be inspired and gather practicalinformation using dry stack techniques from local artisan, authorand stonemason David Reed.
HALF DAY WORKSHOP*
Kudzu: The Plant that Ate the South Mimi Middleton,Mountain Spirit School of Herbalism CLASS LIMIT= 25
Where did kudzu come from and why is it everywhere? What isbeing done to fend it off? What are kudzu’s benefits? Come learnanswers to these questions as we discuss the practical uses ofkudzu as a culinary plant and animal feed, and practice usingkudzu for basket and paper making, medicine, and much more.
OAM PM
AM
Shitake and Oyster Mushroom Production RichardSanders, Warren Wilson College CLASS LIMIT=25
Ever wonder how you can produce delicious specialty mushroomsin your woodlands? Richard Sanders will tell you about his crew’ssuccessful mushroom production at Warren Wilson College, andoffer suggestions for your own start-up production. You’ll have thechance to inoculate your first log. This workshop intended forbeginning growers and hobbyists.
AMGoat Cheese Making Chris Owen, Spinning SpiderCreamery CLASS LIMIT=20
In this workshop, the owner of a licensed farmstead goat dairythat produces fine fresh and aged cheeses will demonstrate howto make some simple cheeses and what you need to do to sellthem.
PM
Post-Harvest Handling and Food Safety Mike Boyette, NCState University, additional speaker TBA CLASS LIMIT=30
This workshop will cover correct post harvest handling techniques fororganic growers, including refrigeration recommendations, curing anddrying. In addition, we will discuss the growing concern over food safe-ty in organic produce, and what growers can do to address these con-cerns on their farm. Informational packets provided.
AM Organic Home Brewing Jay Adams, Vintner, NationalBJCP Judge & Home-brewer CLASS LIMIT=25
During this workshop, attendees will learn techniques forbrewing a five gallon batch of organic beer using extract ingre-dients. While beer is brewing, we will discuss whole grainbrewing procedures and sample some local and nationalmicrobrews.
PM
Understanding & Making Biodiesel Jack Simms, BiselProcessors, & Paul Goodman, Cowee Harmony Gardens
CLASS LIMIT= 40This is an exciting time, when the potential to save money, begreen, and develop fuel independence are all possibilities. Learnthe basics of biodiesel and its variations, and see the simplicitywith which it can be made on a home scale.
PM
HALF DAY WORKSHOP*PHoney & Herbs Ceara Foley, NC School of HolisticHerbalism CLASS LIMIT= 20
Delve deeper into the diverse delights of honey; superb sweeten-er and powerful healing agent. Discover the medicinal propertiesof honey as well as its synergistic effects with herbs. Make andsample herbal honey pills, meglethin (herbal honey wine), andherb infused honey. Learn about syrups and the benefits of theancient Chinese practice of honey-frying herbs. Beekeepers,kitchen witches, and health care providers will all agree to addhoney to the apothecary.
Propagation by Seeds, Cuttings, and Division AnthonyLeBude, NCSU CLASS LIMIT= 25
Learn and practice fundamental plant propagation techniques ofwoody and herbaceous plants. Techniques will be general in natureso you can apply them to various crops. Topics will include seedcollection and storage, stem and root cutting, rooting hormones,and creating and managing a rudimentary greenhouse. Note: Bringpruners and gloves and be prepared to take plants home with you!
AM PM
HALF DAY WORKSHOP*Q
HALF DAY WORKSHOP*R
HALF DAY WORKSHOP*S
SUNDAY MARCH 11, 1-5 PM at Warren Wilson CollegeHot Pile Composting: The Hands-On, The Realities, The Nitty-Gritty Presenters: Patryk Battle, Sparkling Earth Farm, Jon Nilsson, East Coast Compost, and Brian Rosa, NCDENR Composting Specialist Class Limit = 50 (minimum is 15) Cost: $25 per person includes refreshments
During this workshop, attendees will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience constructing a thermophilic (hot) compost pile,observe an active pile, review compost analysis and compost ingredient analysis, and use these results to develop effective hot compost.Attendees will learn techniques to monitor their pile in order to get the results required by organic standards. We will also discuss skillsneeded for home construction and the materials and techniques needed for maintaining aeration. This workshop will include both handson and classroom instruction, and will spend time discussing your individual situations and plans for incorporating hot pile compostinginto your unique farming system. Finally, we will discuss realities of production and yield, and how to most effectively use this black goldas a catalyst to improve your production system. 9
Workshops
On-Farm Workshop
The Catered Lunch Buffet Option is Back!After last year’s great lunch success, we have chosen to offer the cateredlunch option once again. This year’s lunchbuffet will be provided by Greenlife Grocerywith local beef donated by Crooked CreekFarms. Please help us minimize the wastecreated by this event by bringing your ownmug for coffee, tea, and drinks throughoutthe day, plus a fork and spoon.
Lunch Menu:Beef Sheppard’s PieBaked Tofu with Shiitake Glaze and Spicy Fried RiceSesame KaleMixed Greens SaladChick Pea SaladRoasted Garlic Corn BreadVariety of Cookies
You must pre-register by March 1 to order this optional $10 lunch.Remember, you may register at www.organicgrowersschool.org or by mail-ing the form on the opposite page.
Registration Details* IMPORTANT * Please ReadRegistration Process: THERE IS NOADVANCE SIGN UP FOR SPECIFICCLASSES, except for classes in thecooking track, half-day hands-onworkshops, and the children’s program.Please note that we do ask you toindicate on your registration form whichclasses you are most likely to attend—this is simply to help us estimate classsizes—you will not be registeredspecifically for those classes. Pleasenote that classroom space is limited andwill be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. If a class is particularlyimportant to you, make it a point toarrive early for that class. If you registerbefore March 1, you should receiveconfirmation of your registration in themail. If you register after March 1,please contact the registrar by email(preferably) or phone to confirm yourspot.Waiting Lists: If you don’t make it into acooking class, a half-day workshop, orthe Children’s Program, you mayprovide your name and contact info tothe registrar, who will maintain a 5-deepwaiting list for each of these sessions.Refund Policy: Registration for the2007 Organic Growers School is non-refundable. The School will be held rain,snow, or shine. The only exemption tothe non-refund rule is if you register fora half-day workshop or the Children’sProgram, are notified that they are full,and choose not to attend as a result. Ifyou are unable to attend for any otherreason, we will be happy to send youdocumentation so that your registrationfee can be recorded as a tax-deductiblecontribution to the ongoing work of TheOrganic Growers School.
Need a place to stay the night? The Mountain Inn & Suites is located at the same exit off of I-26 as Blue RidgeCommunity College, and charges $59 per night for a room.When you call tomake reservations, make sure to mention that you’re with the Growers School.For reservations call (828) 692-7772.Also check our sponsor, Highland Lake InnBed & Breakfast. Rooms here range in sizeand amenities, and therefore also range inprice. Visit their website at www.hlinn.com fordetails about reservations.
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Directions to the Organic Growers School atBlue Ridge Community CollegeThe campus is approximately 30 minutes southeast of Asheville. Take I-26to the Upward Road Exit (Exit 53). Turn toward Flat Rock. Go about 1/2 mileand turn right on South Allen. Go about 1/2 mile to college and turn left.Follow signs for registration.
Seed & Plant Exchange TableSeed saving and plant exchanges are key steps in preserving
genetic diversity and protecting regionally adapted varieties. Thepopular self-serve Seed & Plant Exchange table will be open throughoutthe day. Please bring your excess seeds and small plants to share, barter,or trade. Seed saving supplies and recommended readings will be provid-ed.Make a reminder to bring bulk or prepackaged seed. Please label eachseed or plant variety name and any comments on the variety’s features,advantages, ornamental or craft uses, etc. If you have questions about theSeed & Plant Exchange, please contact Lee Barnes at 828-452-5716 [email protected].
This registration form is for: c Adult c Child (7-12)Name: ___________________________________________Parent or Guardian name if signing up for Children’s Session:_________________________________________________Address (City, Street, State, Zip): __________________________________________________________________________________________________Phone: ___________________________________________Email: ___________________________________________ REGULAR SESSIONS:Please help us estimate classroom size by indicating the regular 1.5 hour sessions that you are most likely to attend. THIS DOES NOTREGISTER YOU SPECIFICALLY FOR THESE CLASSES.I am most likely to attend: (i.e 1A, 2C, 3H, 4J)Session 1: (9:00 - 10:30) ____ Session 2: (11:00 – 12:30)_____Session 3: (2:00 – 3:30) ____ Session 4: (4:00 – 5:30)_____
HALF DAY WORKSHOPS (Advance Registration Required): Check the space availability for the half-day hands-on workshops onlineat www.organicgrowersschool.org before registering.(Please indicate workshop with letter code and workshop title):Morning Workshop: ______ / _____________________________ Afternoon Workshop: _____ / _____________________________COOKING CLASSES (Advance Registration Required):I would like to attend:Session 1/ Spring Garden Delights _____ Session 2/The Daily Grind _____Session 3/ Which Cheese Please? _____ Session 4/ RAW _____PAYMENT:SATURDAY REGISTRATION:c $40 Regular c $30 Student c $30 Child (7-12) = $ _______c # of half-day workshops _______ x ($5) = $ _______c # of cooking classes _______ x ($5) = $ _______
c Greenlife lunch (optional) _______ x ($10) = $ _______(must pre-register by 3/1)
c $15 late registration Fee $ _______(postmarked after 3/1 or day of school)SUNDAY SESSION:c at Warren Wilson College: $25 = $ _______
TOTAL Due $ _______I understand and accept the terms of this registration.Signature:______________________________ Date: __________Mailed registrations: Checks only. Please make checks payable toOrganic Growers School and mail with completed form to:
Quick registration available online with credit card:www.organicgrowersschool.org
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This registration form is for: c Adult c Child (7-12)Name: ___________________________________________Parent or Guardian name if signing up for Children’s Session:_________________________________________________Address (City, Street, State, Zip): __________________________________________________________________________________________________Phone: ___________________________________________Email: ___________________________________________ REGULAR SESSIONS:Please help us estimate classroom size by indicating the regular 1.5 hour sessions that you are most likely to attend. THIS DOES NOTREGISTER YOU SPECIFICALLY FOR THESE CLASSES.I am most likely to attend: (i.e 1A, 2C, 3H, 4J)Session 1: (9:00 - 10:30) ____ Session 2: (11:00 – 12:30)_____Session 3: (2:00 – 3:30) ____ Session 4: (4:00 – 5:30)_____
HALF DAY WORKSHOPS (Advance Registration Required): Check the space availability for the half-day hands-on workshops onlineat www.organicgrowersschool.org before registering.(Please indicate workshop with letter code and workshop title):Morning Workshop: ______ / _____________________________ Afternoon Workshop: _____ / _____________________________COOKING CLASSES (Advance Registration Required):I would like to attend:Session 1/ Spring Garden Delights _____ Session 2/The Daily Grind _____Session 3/ Which Cheese Please? _____ Session 4/ RAW _____PAYMENT:SATURDAY REGISTRATION:c $40 Regular c $30 Student c $30 Child (7-12) = $ _______c # of half-day workshops _______ x ($5) = $ _______c # of cooking classes _______ x ($5) = $ _______
c Greenlife lunch (optional) _______ x ($10) = $ _______(must pre-register by 3/1)
c $15 late registration Fee $ _______(postmarked after 3/1 or day of school)SUNDAY SESSION:c at Warren Wilson College: $25 = $ _______
TOTAL Due $ _______I understand and accept the terms of this registration.Signature:______________________________ Date: __________Mailed registrations: Checks only. Please make checks payable toOrganic Growers School and mail with completed form to:
Quick registration available online with credit card:www.organicgrowersschool.org
c h e c k o u t o u r n e w w e b s i t e a t : w w w . o r g a n i c g r o w e r s s c h o o l . o r g
Organic Growers School1623 Mt. Hebron RoadOld Fort, NC 28762Mail registration form to address shown on form
PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE
PAIDASHEVILLE, NC
PERMIT #422
A day of workshops for beginninggardeners to advancedcommercial growers
OGS 2007 Registration Enclosed
What’s New at this year’s school?
Urban Growing and Sustainable Forestry Classes!Sunday workshop at Warren WilsonCollege: Hot Pile CompostingLearn how to make your ownbiodiesel, goat cheese, compostand of course, learn the lateston growing organic!
