Agriculinary Botany: From Conservation to Culinary Innovation / Fig & Thyme: Agroforestry Meets Gourmet Agriculture

Friday, October 30, 2026 • 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

1600 East Washington St, Petersburg, VA 23803

Explore how figs and culinary herbs can strengthen diversified farms through agroforestry, specialty crop production, and value-added agriculture. Participants will learn fig propagation, orchard management, thyme cultivation, companion planting, food forest design, and food-as-medicine applications while discovering how conservation practices—including forest farming, alley cropping, tree and shrub establishment, windbreaks, mulching, and conservation planning—improve soil health, biodiversity, and environmentally resilient farming systems. 

Featured demonstrations include a seasonal Fig & Thyme Smash, with a non-alcoholic botanical alternative paired with locally sourced goat cheese, brie, walnuts, honey, flatbreads, and fresh figs. Designed for orchardists, agroforestry producers, beekeepers, cheesemakers, herb growers, and beginning farmers interested in creating profitable specialty crop enterprises rooted in conservation and perennial agriculture.

Conservation Connection

This workshop supports NRCS conservation education, demonstrations, technical assistance, and environmentally resilient specialty crop production through experiential learning and producer collaboration.     

Following the Workshop

Participants are invited to remain on site from 3:30–5:00 PM to visit the Producer Marketplace & Community Connection, explore specialty products, meet local farmers and agricultural organizations, and continue informal networking before the optional, separately ticketed Agroculinary Happy Hour later that evening.

Guests wishing to extend their experience are welcome to attend the separately ticketed Agroculinary Happy Hour: Learn - Taste - Connect, featuring seasonal food pairings, botanical culinary demonstrations, producer spotlights, and musical entertainment later that evening.

For more information, contact Tabitha Bugg at tbugg@vsu.edu.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

VSU FALL FOR FUN FEST & TROJAN FARMERS MARKET

Friday, October 30, 2026 • 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

VSU Summerseat Urban Agriculture Center

20814 James St, Petersburg, VA 23803

Near the VSU Multipurpose Center

FREE PARKING IN LOT #41

FREE EDUCATIONAL EVENT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Near the VSU Multipurpose Center, lawn facing Dupuy Road

FREE PARKING IN LOT #41

Featuring:

12:30pm BEST Costume Contest - $100 Cash Prize to Winner

Every Half Hour Raffle Giveaway - $25 Amazon Gift Card

LIVE DJ MUSIC & DANCING

REGISTER: https://web.cvent.com/event/ac33069b-2ef6-46d0-bc02-b500e9ec26fd/register

Vendors:

Backyard Farm, Petersburg, VA-Produce, Rabbit Hutches, Chicken Coops

Browntown Farms, Warsaw, VA-Produce, Jams

CocoGin LLC, Glen Allen, VA-Juices, Nutty Bars

Eden Green Farms, S. Prince George, VA-Produce, Art, BioChar, WormComp®

Java Bean LLC Chesterfield, VA-Coffee, Lemonade

Mimi’s Kitchen & Gardens, Waverly, VA-Produce, Eggs, Baked Goods & More

NuFarm, Chesterfield, VA-Fresh Ginger, Herbs

Onai Botanicals Farm, Virginia Beach, VA- Teas, Spa Products, Gifts, Flowers

Petersburg Oasis Youth Farm, Petersburg-VA Produce, Hibiscus & More

Project Mother Farm, Chester, VA-Handmade Farm Apparel

Ribickie Farms, Southampton, VA-Mushrooms, Teas, Spices, Grow Kits

Sycamore Springs Farm, Surry, VA-Produce, Ham, Garlic, Spices, & More

104 Ministries Farm, South Prince George, VA-Produce

Virginia’s Finest Farm, Richmond, VA-Lettuce, Greens, Dried Produce, Spices

VSU Horticulture Club, VSU TAMM Club, VSU Entrepreneurship Club

FeedMore, Richmond, VA-Hunger Relief, Food Bank

104 Ministries Farm, S Prince George, VA-Sweet Potatoes

43,560 Market Farm Project, Small Ruminants Program, VSU, Petersburg, VA

Farmers Market information:

Dr. Nartea at tnartea@vsu.edu

Student Volunteer information:

Taylor J. Briggs at tbri8331@students.vsu.edu

DRIVING DIRECTIONS to Summerseat for Urban Agriculture Center

Address: 20814 James St, Petersburg, VA

From the North (Fredericksburg, Washington, D.C., Maryland)

Take I-95 South to Exit 54 (Temple Avenue).

Follow signs for Temple Avenue west toward Boulevard.

Turn left onto Route 301 (Boulevard).

Turn right onto Dupuy Avenue at Wawa.

Continue straight onto East River Road, passing VSU.

About 1 mile from Boulevard, make a sharp left onto 2nd Avenue.

Drive down 2nd Avenue and park at Lot 41. After parking, you will see the market

tents set up at the Summerseat Urban Ag Center, just walk over from Lot 41.

From the South (Emporia, North Carolina)

Take I-95 North to Exit 54 (Temple Avenue), then follow the directions above.

From the Northwest (Staunton, Charlottesville)

Take I-64 East to Route 288 South to I-95 South.

Take Exit 54 (Temple Avenue), then follow the directions above.

From the Southwest (Roanoke, Lynchburg, Blackstone)

Take Route 460 East to I-85 North, then I-95 North to Exit 54 (Temple Avenue).

Follow the directions above.

From the East (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Wakefield)

Take Route 460 West through Disputanta and Hebron.

Turn left at Wagner Road (McDonald's on the right).

Take the I-95 North ramp on the right and continue to Exit 54 (Temple Avenue).

Follow the directions above.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services, or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call 804-524-3292 / TDD 800-828-1120 during business hours of 8 am and 5 pm to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Coop Camp, Part 1: PLanning the Flock

Thursday, October 29, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

5620 E. River Rd, Foster, VA 23056

Discover the fundamentals of successful poultry production, from local regulations, site selection, and coop design to breed selection, predator protection, and flock management. Learn about raising birds for eggs, meat, or profit, compare hatching versus purchasing chicks, and gain practical insights during an informative and engaging workshop. A guided farm tour and Q&A will follow the info session, along with fall drinks, light refreshments and snacks.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 / bdukes@vsu.edu or Malique Middleton at 804-481-1163 / mmiddleton@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Interpreting Soil Samples For Farm BMP’s

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

300 Gordondale Road

Atkins, VA 24311

Join others to learn about the importance of soil sampling that accurately represents the soil in your fields. Additional topics of how to interpret soil sample results and soil scenarios will be presented by Tammy Holler (VSU Small Farm Agent). A question/answer session will follow. Dinner will be provided.

Registration is required by October 23.

For more info, contact: Amanda “Mandy” Fletcher

804.892.0108 | afletcher@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Introduction to Small Scale Berry Production and High Tunnel

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Greensville/Emporia Extension Office, 105 Oak Street, Emporia, VA 23847

This program will teach participants to get started  growing strawberries and blueberries on a small scale for profit. Attendees will learn about site selection, variety selection and best practices for planting and care. This program is designed for growers new to berry production and those interested in high tunnel systems as a possible production practice.

For more information, contact Garry Banks at (804) 760-3615 or gbanks@vsu.edu.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Ginger workshop and field day 2026

Friday, October 23, 2026 · 9:00am–4:00pm

VSU Randolph Farm Pavilion, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA 23803

This event provides basic information and research updates on ginger, Topics include sustainable field and high tunnel ginger production, ginger seed production, integrated pest management, marketing, and post harvest. A field tour to field, high tunnel and greenhouse ginger research and demonstration on Randolph Farm will be provided. The target participants of this event are interested growers as well as extension educators. A light lunch will be served.

Please contact Peter Coffey at plcoffey@vsu.edu for more information.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Small Farm Orientation

Thursday, October 22, 2026 • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting -OR- 303 Gay St, Cambridge, MD 21613

This two-hour online course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes and Malique Middleton, small farm agents for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Theresa Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. 

Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual. 

QUICK TECH NOTE: Please install Microsoft Teams on the device you will be using. Test your microphone and speakers. Open the meeting link a few minutes early.

For more information, contact Ben Dukes at (804)731-7916, bdukes@vsu.edu or Malique Middleton, (804) 481-1163, mmiddleton@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

COA Regional Focus Group Follow Up

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

1425 Norchester Avenue Norfolk, Virginia, 23504

The Small Farm Outreach Program (SFOP) will host focus groups on behalf of Virginia State University College of Agriculture. As a result of the overwhelming stakeholder support, SFOP is reaching out to revisit participants and their communities in their localities. These sessions will include sharing focus group results and a facilitated conversation. We will also be providing follow up resources and templates on how to host your own focus groups. Meet us where you are and bring a friend for a night of dynamic conversation.

For more info, contact: Danielle Freeman-Jefferson

804-898-9142 | dfreeman-jefferson@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

VSU SFOP and USDA Information Update

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Lexington Farmers Market

South Jefferson Street

Lexington, Va 24450

The VSU Small Farm Outreach Program events and services will be highlighted at a booth as part of the Lexington Farmers Market in Lexington. The marketing rules will be available to individuals considering being vendors at this market, Participants will be able to get an idea or different marketing practices while having an opportunity to have questions answered.

For more info, contact: Forrest Hobbs 804-892-5910 | fhobbs@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

COA Regional Focus Group Follow Up

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

33446 Research Drive Painter, Virginia, 23420

The Small Farm Outreach Program (SFOP) will host focus groups on behalf of Virginia State University College of Agriculture. As a result of the overwhelming stakeholder support, SFOP is reaching out to revisit participants and their communities in their localities. These sessions will include sharing focus group results and a facilitated conversation. We will also be providing follow up resources and templates on how to host your own focus groups. Meet us where you are and bring a friend for a night of dynamic conversation.

For more info, contact: Danielle Freeman-Jefferson

804-898-9142 | dfreeman-jefferson@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Electric Fence-Building

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 • 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Mount Jackson Methodist Church

141 Orkney Drive Mount Jackson, Virginia, 22842

Come out to spend a day at Llamazing Blessed Homestead to learn electric fence installation

with Gallagher Fencing. This free workshop will teach you how to install high tensile electric

fencing from start to finish. Get hands-on experience while meeting sales representatives

to discuss fencing needs at your farm operation.

Space is limited to 40 participants. Lunch will be served.

Recommend participants bring gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection.

Sponsored by: Gallagher Electric Fencing and Martin’s Native Lumber

For more info, contact: Marian Dalke

(540) 232-6010 | mdalke@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

NC State Fair Bus Tour

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 • 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

The North Carolina State Fair Ag Bus Tour from Virginia State University (VSU) is a bus tour that explores food, farming, and fair festivities. The bus picks up and drops off passengers at the following locations and times:

• VSU Randolph Farm Pavilion: 6 AM departure

• Walmart's parking lot: 7:30 AM departure

• North Carolina State Fair: 9:30 AM arrival

The 2026 North Carolina State Fair will be held at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds 1207 Blue Ridge Road Raleigh, NC 27607.

For more information, contact Derrick Cladd at 804.892.4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Harvesting Hope – A Mental Health Initiative for Farmers

Saturday, October 17, 2026 • 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

Agricultural producers encounter a distinct set of mental health challenges arising from operational uncertainties, financial volatility, environmental pressures, and the demanding nature of production agriculture. These stressors can significantly impact personal well-being, decision-making capacity, and long-term business sustainability.

This Mental Health Training Class is designed to provide producers with a structured foundation in mental health awareness, emphasizing the identification of stress indicators, early signs of mental health concerns, and appropriate response strategies. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practices with producer-relevant scenarios, promoting practical skills in stress management, communication, and peer support within agricultural operations.

In addition, the program addresses the persistent stigma associated with mental health in rural communities and highlights available professional and community resources. By strengthening mental health literacy among producers, this training aims to enhance resilience, support healthier work environments, and contribute to the overall stability and sustainability of agricultural enterprises.

For more info, contact: Yowei Peralta

(804) 892-0282 | yperalta@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

3rd Annual AgriCuilnary Tech Chef Challenge

Thursday, October 15, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, VA 23803

The AgriCulinary Tech Chef Challenge is a signature youth culinary competition of the AgriCulinary Academy that brings high school students together to showcase their culinary skills, creativity, teamwork, and career readiness. Student teams compete in an industry-inspired culinary challenge while applying skills in food preparation, food safety, leadership, communication, time management, and presentation. The experience connects students with chefs, educators, and industry professionals while highlighting career pathways across agriculture, culinary arts, hospitality, and foodservice.

For more info, contact: Chef Radelle Reese

804-524-1158 | rreese@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Increasing Soil Health with Cover Crops

Friday, October 9, 2026 • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

16299 Savagetown Road Painter, Virginia, 23420

In this field demonstration, farmers will learn how to incorporate cover crops on

their farm. Participants will learn how to begin the Spiral of Soil Health by creating

healthy soil that helps plants take up nutrients, supports maximum growth, helps

withstand or resist drought, and retains topsoil by reducing erosion. We will show

how the use of cover crops sustains agricultural practices and our ability to

provide food for the future. Please join us to discover how six trial cover crops

may affect your farm’s soil health. A restroom will not be available.

For more info, contact: Ben Dukes

804-731-7916 | bdukes@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

High Tunnels: Growing for the Cool Season and Winter Preparation

Thursday, October 8, 2026 • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Hybrid or In - Person

Coalfield Agricultural Center

449 Agricultural Drive Clintwood, Virginia, 24228

Interest in high tunnels is rapidly increasing across the region. Please join the Virginia State University Small Farm Outreach Program and Virginia Cooperative Extension for this third hybrid event of 2026 on high tunnels.

Horticulture specialist and high tunnel expert Dr. Sanjun Gu will focus on cool-season growing and preparing for what may be an active 2026–27 winter ahead. Join us virtually (online) or in person at the Coalfield Agricultural Center in southwestern Virginia.

For more info, contact: Wayne Browning

804-760-3932 | wbrowning@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Shenandoah Valley Small Farm Summit

Thursday, October 8, 2026 • 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Keezletown Ruritan Club

1118 Indian Trail Rd, Keezletown, VA 22832

Come and gather with small farmers from throughout the Shenandoah Valley for the second annual

Small Farm Summit. This engaging session invites you to provide input into the Shenandoah Valley Small

Farm Network. Share emerging successes and highlight remaining work needed to support producers

in the Shenandoah Valley region. The Small Farm Outreach Program will share the results from Virginia

State University’s statewide focus groups conducted in Fall 2025. Dinner will be served, and Spanish

interpretation will be provided.

For more info, contact: Marian Dalke

540-232-6010 | mdalke@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Backyard Urban Farming

Thursday, October 8, 2026 • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Address Will Be Sent to Confirmed Attendees

New Small Farm Agent, Malique Middleton, opens his backyard urban farm, The Gewd Farm, to the community for an interactive tour exploring how everyday residential spaces can be transformed into productive urban farms. Participants will walk through the farm, learn about raised beds, small scale crop production, composting, medicinal plants, and other techniques used to maximize limited growing space. The workshop will also explore the benefits of urban agriculture and opportunities for turning a backyard or small parcel into a productive farm. Participants will leave with practical ideas and inspiration for making the most of the land they already have.

For more info, contact: Malique Middleton 804.481.1163 | mmiddleton@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Safety on the Farm

Thursday, October 8, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Southampton County Office of the Virginia Cooperative Extension

21300 Plank Road Courtland, Virginia, 23837

Life on the farm has inherent risks. Equipment operation, electricity, high elevations, weather factors,

hazardous natural pests, chemical exposures are among many elements farm operators deal with daily.

Large companies and insurance companies spend vast quantities of time and money ensuring their

employees are trained in safety. As a sole proprietor farmer, you are on your own. This engaging session

attempts to review some common safety practices, but also point out a few "gotcha" hazards that people

don't often consider to avoid dangerous consequences.

For more info, contact: Garry Banks

804-760-3615 | gbanks@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Soil Test Results and Interpretation

Wednesday, October 7, 2026 • 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

Got your soil test results back, but not sure what they’re telling you? Join us for an informative

webinar designed to help you decode your soil report and turn numbers into practical decisions.

We’ll walk through soil test reports step by step, explaining what was tested, why it matters, and

how to interpret management recommendations for your land. You’ll also learn why soil health

is the foundation of productive, resilient soils and discover practical strategies for managing

healthier soils over time. Whether you’re new to soil testing or looking to better understand your

results, this session will help you gain confidence in making informed decisions for your farm

or property.

*QUICK TECH NOTE: Please install Microsoft Teams on the device you will be using. Test your microphone and

speakers. Open the meeting link a few minutes early.

For more info, contact: Ben Dukes

804-731-7916 | bdukes@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Trees for Bees

Wednesday, October 7, 2026 • 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

“Trees For Bees” explores why trees are the important source of pollen and nectar for bees and pollinators. Participants learn how trees shape ecosystems, create micro climates and reduce bee foraging stress. The class also teaches choosing the right tree for the right location using methods from the presenters bestselling book: “Choosing Your Perfect Tree: Tips from a Landscape Designer”

For more info, contact: James Gibson 804.720.6826 | jegibson@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO)

Wednesday, October 7, 2026 • 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center

2410 Wickham Avenue Newport News, Virginia, 23607

There’s no better time to improve the fertility and vitality of your soil than the present. Join us for a hands-on workshop

exploring Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO)—a powerful, low-cost technique rooted in Korean Natural Farming. IMO works

by collecting and cultivating native microbes already present in your environment. Because these microorganisms are

adapted to your local climate, they integrate easily into your soil, helping to naturally enhance fertility, structure, and

overall plant health. In this practical, information-rich workshop, you will:

• Learn the four stages of IMO, and how each one functions

• Understand how IMO supports soil health and plant growth

• Watch a step-by-step demonstration of how to prepare and apply IMO

• Take part in an outdoor, hands-on demo to collect IMO and start your own process

Whether you’re a gardener, farmer, or simply interested in regenerative practices, you’ll leave with the knowledge and

confidence to begin working with nature to build healthier soil. Come ready to learn, observe, and get your hands a

little dirty!

For more info, contact: Ben Dukes

804-731-7916 | bdukes@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Fall High Tunnel Organic Nutrient Management

Wednesday, October 7, 2026 • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

2778 Cut Bank Road Warfield, Virginia, 23889

Join us in Warfield, Virginia as Alex Hessler, DCR Small Farm NM Specialist shares his knowledge of using organic soil nutrient materials in a High tunnel to develop healthier soils and increase fall vegetable production. Followed by getting your hands in the soil if time permits. We will be planting a variety of fall vegetable plants.

Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear proper footwear, this will be an outdoor hands-on type workshop.

For more info, contact: Tammy Holler 804.895.9472 | tholler@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Herd & Forage Improvement Farm Field Day

Tuesday, October 6, 2026 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

A&W Ranch

160 South Montevideo Circle Penn Laird, Virginia, 22846

VSU’s Small Farm Outreach Program invites you to a field day at A&W Ranch in the Shenandoah Valley. Learn from rancher Glenn Anderson and Small Farm Agent Tim Sexton about their on-farm research trials comparing lespedeza and novel endophyte fescue on cattle nutrition and weight gain. Glenn will provide a tour of his ranch, where he raises Angus beef using rotational grazing management practices. Glen has been raising livestock for 22 years. He will discuss his challenges and successes with the Herd Health and Forage Improvement Program. Tim will discuss the program and funding available to animal managers who would like to improve grass types, animal health, and weight gains, as well as other factors to consider when raising animals for profit.

For more info, contact: Marian Dalke 540-232-6010 | mdalke@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Virginia APEX Accelerator

This event has been cancelled.

Fall Vegetable Gardening

Tuesday, October 6, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

2778 Cut Bank Road Warfield, Virginia, 23889

Have you ever wondered what you could grow in the fall and winter months? Join us in Warfield, Virginia, to learn by doing as we get our hands in the soil to learn how to use vegetable transplants and direct-seeding techniques. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear proper footwear. This will be an outdoor, hands-on workshop.

For more info, contact: Tammy Holler

804-895-9472 | tholler@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Virginia APEX Accelerator

This event has been cancelled.

Fall Pasture Lambing

Monday, October 5, 2026 • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

2778 Cut Bank Road Warfield, Virginia, 23889

Like any livestock management system, pasture lambing requires careful recordkeeping;

knowledge of animal nutrition, health and behavior; and—just as important—attention to detail.

Learn low-stress sheep birthing and flock management techniques with Dr. Dahlia O’Brian. Topics will include:

• Items to include in your lambing toolbox

• Nutrition and feeding management

• Record keeping

• Newborn lamb care

• Ewe health management

Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear proper footwear. This will be an outdoor event.

For more info, contact: Tammy Holler

804-895-9472 | tholler@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

4th Annual Family Ag Day

Saturday, October 3, 2026 • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Grundy Community Center

22734 Cinema Drive Grundy, VA 24614

The Virginia State University Small Farm Outreach Program and Virginia Cooperative Extension will be present to support the 4th Annual Family Agriculture Day at the Grundy Community Center in Buchanan County, Virginia.

This family event will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Grundy Community Center (Movie Theatre Parking area).

Please come enjoy this wonderful event sponsored by the Big Sandy Soil Water Conservation District and the Buchanan County Board of Supervisors.

For more info, contact: Walter Browning

804-760-3932 | wbrowning@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.