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Welcome to the 37th annual California Small Farm Conference, a week-long event featuring over 40 online workshops as well as a dozen in-person gatherings around the state. Whether you’re a beginning farmer or a seasoned grower, a local food advocate or a farmers market manager, you’ll find something here for you. This year’s theme, "Rooted in Place", honors the vital relationship between farmers, communities and the land they steward.

Check out the schedule below for event times and locations. Click "Reserve Tickets" to register. Admission is on a sliding-scale, to ensure everyone can attend. Please select the amount you’re comfortable paying. Enjoy the conference!

Interested in sponsoring this event? Learn more here
or to register for this event.
Audience: Experienced Farmers clear filter
Sunday, February 23
 

8:00am PST

Boosting Beneficial Birds and Insects: Nest Boxes, Hedgerows and Other Natural Enemy Habitat
Sunday February 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
Beneficial birds and insects target a range of insect and rodent pests in agriculture. Farmland can offer diverse habitats to meet their reproductive and overwintering needs, which helps support these natural predators and creates a comprehensive defense system. In this workshop, we will explore the advantages of incorporating natural enemy birds and insects into agroecosystems and discuss ways to attract and support them using nest boxes, perches, flower patches, shrubs, trees, hedgerows, and riparian zones. We’ll also address their preferences for various native and nonnative plants. By inviting these beneficial species to your farm, you enhance sustainability and promote local biodiversity.
Speakers
JA

Jo Ann Baumgartner

Executive Director, Wild Farm Alliance
BM

Breanna Martinico

UC Cooperative Extension

Sunday February 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

8:00am PST

A New Model for Farmland Access and Transition: The Farmland Commons
Sunday February 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
The Farmers Land Trust is a national organization working to support farmland protection, transition, and secure access for farmers through the innovative Farmland Commons model, which decommodifies land by placing it in the ownership of local communities. This dynamic and engaging presentation will share how the Farmland Commons model works, and participants will leave with the knowledge and resources that will enable them to carry forward creative land transition and access opportunities to their own communities.
Speakers
IM

Ian McSweeney

The Farmers Land Trust
KV

Kristina Villa

The Farmers Land Trust

Sunday February 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
  Issues in Food & Ag / Other

9:45am PST

Strawberry Production in Hotter Climates
Sunday February 23, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
Strawberries thrive in the cooler, sunny climates of California’s Central Coast which is why the region is home to the majority of the state’s commercial strawberry production. However, there are many small-scale operations throughout the state growing strawberries in hotter, drier regions. What does it take to successfully grow strawberries on a smaller scale—especially in less climatically ideal regions? How do coastal practices need to be adapted to hotter growing conditions?  How does the heat affect disease and pest prevalence?

Join UC Cooperative Extension Small & Organic Farms Advisor, Margaret Lloyd, and Community Education Specialist, Lindsey Kelley, as we dive into these questions plus topics like cultivar selection, irrigation needs, planting and harvesting schedules, post-harvest handling, and more!
Speakers
ML

Margaret Lloyd

Small and Organic Farms Advisor, UC Cooperative Extension
avatar for Lindsey Kelley

Lindsey Kelley

Small Farms Program Community Education Specialist, UC Cooperative Extension

Sunday February 23, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

11:30am PST

Beyond the Newsletter: 5 Strategies to Scale a 100+ CSA Program in Less Than One Season
Sunday February 23, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
Most farmers know a newsletter is key to engaging an existing audience, but it’s the activities surrounding your newsletter that deliver growth. Scaling a CSA program requires more than just communication; it demands strategic planning and execution across various aspects of the business.

After a brief presentation, attendees will be guided through a hands-on workshop, where they’ll learn 5 strategies to grow a CSA. By the end of the session, attendees will leave with a clear, actionable plan to scale their CSA membership to 100+ members this season, leveraging a mix of good products, community engagement, and technology.
Speakers
avatar for Ari Memar

Sunday February 23, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
  Sales & Marketing

1:15pm PST

Which Direct Market Channel Is Right for Me?
Sunday February 23, 2025 1:15pm - 1:30pm PST
Online
Learn about different market channels and their pros and cons. Identify which market channels may be beneficial for your business.  
Speakers
RL

Ramiro Lobo

Small Farms Advisor, UCCE San Diego
avatar for Darlene Ruiz

Darlene Ruiz

Staff Research Associate, UCCE San Diego
Siguenos en las redes sociales- Follow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/cesandiego/ - Instagram@UCCESanDiego - X/Twitterhttps://www.facebook.com/sandiegoucce - Facebook

Sunday February 23, 2025 1:15pm - 1:30pm PST
Online
  Sales & Marketing

4:45pm PST

Wildlife Safe Ranching
Sunday February 23, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
We will cover the practical and legal knowledge required to run a successful operation in California alongside wildlife. We will cover deterrence, exclusion, guardian animals, and the dynamics of "Barnyard CSI" and kill site forensics. We will also touch on conflict with domestic animals (especially loose dogs) with livestock, and how wildfires, drought, and a changing legal landscape impact farmers, ranchers and wildlife. Our perspective is pro-farmer, pro-rancher, pro-homesteader, and pro-wildlife. Attendees will come away informed and empowered, including with information on how to access free resources to solve conflicts with wildlife legally and safely.
Speakers
GB

Gowan Batist

The Mountain Lion Foundation

Sunday February 23, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

4:45pm PST

Is There Soul in the Soil? The Spirituality of Farming
Sunday February 23, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
This workshop will explore the weaving of spirituality and agriculture from the experience of several panel members. These will include representatives from (for example) the Biodynamic community, Native American / Indigenous farmers, food producers with a more traditional faith background, and those with an atheist/agnostic spirituality.  

Science has given us so many incredible tools to advance agriculture and especially food production. We can now produce more food with greater nutrition in more diverse ecosystems while paying attention to the impacts of different methods on the environment and segments of society.  But a scientific focus can also lead to objectifying nature as something to manipulate at will, to control and use as a lifeless, mechanical resource.  But what if the soil has soul? What if the land we depend on for life and livelihood has something akin to consciousness or even personhood--different from the human sort but just as real?  Historically, many indigenous cultures have not separated their collective experiential knowledge (another name for empirical science) from their spirituality. What might it look like to form more intentionally collaborative relationships with the more-than-human beings that feed us, to honor spirit and science together?  This upbeat workshop will be facilitated with curiosity, dialogue among speakers, and respect for diverse views. Plus time for Q&A of course!  :)
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Stan Rodriguez

Dr. Stan Rodriguez

Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel
avatar for Angelie Ryah

Angelie Ryah

I'm a new farmer with my very first commercial growing operation!  Belong Farm has been a dream for many years so I am excited to see it take shape. I am using regenerative ag methods, and thrilled to join the badass farmer network that makes up Foodshed where we make uber nutritious... Read More →
LC
Sunday February 23, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
  Issues in Food & Ag / Other
 
Monday, February 24
 

8:00am PST

Let’s Talk About Nitrogen on Your Organic Farm
Monday February 24, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant production. It's particularly difficult to manage on organic farms because the availability dynamics are complex. This workshop will present a holistic way of thinking about nitrogen cycling and management so that growers can have a nitrogen plan in place. From compost and cover crops to soil organic matter and amendments, we'll talk about it all. By the end, you'll be empowered to understand how these different sources of nitrogen create a whole system plan and where you have room to improve.
Speakers
PL

Patricia Lazicki

UC Cooperative Extension
ML

Margaret Lloyd

Small and Organic Farms Advisor, UC Cooperative Extension

Monday February 24, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
  Organics

9:00am PST

Farmers' Market Manager Training Level 1: Elevating Market Management Standards
Monday February 24, 2025 9:00am - 6:00pm PST
Online
This half-day training, developed by the California Alliance of Farmers' Markets, offers farmers' market workers, managers, volunteers or enthusiasts insight into the rules and regulations and best practices for running a CA certified Farmers market. The program is designed to equip market managers, staff, volunteers, enthusiasts, with the essential skills needed to enhance the integrity, management, and sustainability of Certified Farmers’ Markets across California.

During this interactive session, participants will dive into the foundational elements of the Farmers' Market Manual, which promotes direct farmer-to-consumer relationships and supports small independent farmers. Upon completion of the training, participants will receive a free farmers' market management manual.

The training will be led by farmers' market longtime professionals and industry leaders Portia Bramble (North Coast Growers Assn), April Lancaster (Visalia Farmers markets) , Tanya Wolf (Ag institute of Marin), and Minni Forman (Food Farming dir. Ecology Center).

Speakers
MF

Minni Forman

Ecology Center
avatar for April Treona

April Treona

Downtown Visalia Certified Farmers' Market
PB

Portia Bramble

North Coast Growers' Association
avatar for Marikit Mayeno

Marikit Mayeno

Food and Farming Program Coordinator, Ecology Center

Monday February 24, 2025 9:00am - 6:00pm PST
Online
  Farmers Market Professionals

9:45am PST

Ag Technology: Funding Opportunities
Monday February 24, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
This panel presentation will explore various funding opportunities available to farmers for advancing agricultural technology. Panelists will discuss different incentive programs for farmers, including:

CDFA: Agrivoltaics and irrigation efficiency program
CORE: Electric tractor vouchers
CARB: Tractor replacement program
3CE: Ag Electrification Program
UCANR: Tool Lending Library

The session will be moderated CAFF's Tech Hub. Join us to learn how these funding opportunities can support your farming operations.
Organizer
avatar for Maria Ridoutt-Orozco

Maria Ridoutt-Orozco

Small Farm Technology Advisor, CAFF
Maria supports the Small Farm Tech Hub by leading technical assistance efforts to improve the productivity and competitiveness of small farmers. Maria is originally from Peru and fell in love with farming when she attended the Agrarian National University in Lima. After receiving... Read More →

Monday February 24, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
  Tools & Tech

11:30am PST

A Farmer's Guide to Groundwater and SGMA
Monday February 24, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
Do you use a well for irrigation? Have you heard about the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) or new regulations for groundwater? Confused by the endless acronyms and jargon, and need to understand what this really means for your farm? Come hear from three farmers who are working with CAFF on groundwater education. Walk away with an understanding of how SGMA functions in Tehama, Butte, and Monterey counties, how to get good information on SGMA in your region, and ways to get involved in groundwater policy in your region.
Speakers
RP

Rogelio Ponce

Sun Valley Farms
CT

Cheetah Tchudi

TurkeyTail Farm
SM

Sadie Morris

Oak Slough Farm
CV

Catherine Van Dyke

Water Policy and Organizing Manager, CAFF

Monday February 24, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
  Issues in Food & Ag / Other

11:30am PST

On-Farm Recordkeeping Technologies and Strategies
Monday February 24, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
Join us for a panel-style discussion on the essentials of recordkeeping for farmers. This workshop is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the various resources available to streamline and enhance your farm's recordkeeping processes. Whether you’re focused on improving your business operations, ensuring food safety compliance, or preparing for audits and certifications, this session has you covered.

The workshop will outline the critical aspects of recordkeeping, including profit/loss statements, crop plans, and the importance of accurate documentation for food safety and marketing, FSMA, organic certifications, and third-party audits, emphasizing how proper records play a pivotal role in meeting these standards.

After this workshop you won’t go at it alone! CAFF’s Farmer Services Office Hours are held every Monday to get in-depth advice on what records you need and how to maintain them efficiently. This workshop is your starting point to mastering farm recordkeeping—don’t miss it!
Speakers
avatar for Maria Ridoutt-Orozco

Maria Ridoutt-Orozco

Small Farm Technology Advisor, CAFF
Maria supports the Small Farm Tech Hub by leading technical assistance efforts to improve the productivity and competitiveness of small farmers. Maria is originally from Peru and fell in love with farming when she attended the Agrarian National University in Lima. After receiving... Read More →
avatar for Paulina S. Hernandez
AS

Arabelle Schoenberg

North Bay Regional Lead, Farmer Services, CAFF

Monday February 24, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
  Tools & Tech

1:15pm PST

Organic IPM for Vegetables
Monday February 24, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
This workshop will provide a foundational introduction to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and how the IPM framework can be applied on small-scale organic vegetable farms. We will start with a basic overview of key IPM concepts and strategies. Then we will explore how IPM can be used to manage two common and economically-damaging pests as examples, symphylans and cucumber beetles. This will include real-world examples of IPM for these pests from North Bay vegetable growers, shared with permission. We will use last 30 minutes of this workshop to walk through how to write your own IPM plan for a pest of your choice using a simple outline. This will start with accurate pest identification, understanding its life cycle, and prevention strategies. Then we will cover how to set action thresholds appropriate for your farm as well as strategies for monitoring and record keeping. We'll cover how to combine management strategies such as biological, cultural, mechanical, and organic chemical options. Attendees will leave this workshop with a draft of an IPM plan they can continue refining over time.
Speakers
EA

Ellie Andrews

Specialty Crops Advisor for Sonoma, Marin, and Napa Counties, UC Cooperative Extension

Monday February 24, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
  Organics

1:15pm PST

Path to Organic: How to Prepare for an Organic Certification
Monday February 24, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
Join us for a workshop on organic certification and inspection, featuring an experienced organic inspector and successful organic farmer. This session will provide insights into the certification process, compliance requirements, and practices for preparing for an inspection.
Speakers
MR

Megan Robertson

Alluvial Organics
KD

Kristen Draz

FogDog Farm
avatar for Grace Jackson

Grace Jackson

Farmer Services Regional Lead - Central Valley, CAFF

Monday February 24, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
  Organics

3:00pm PST

Steps for Conducting Research on Your Own Farm
Monday February 24, 2025 3:00pm - 4:15pm PST
Online
Every farm has unique challenges and, in striving towards solutions, farmers are innovative problem-solvers well-versed in constant trial and error. However, as a farmer, you may not think of yourself as a researcher or what you do as experimental trials. This workshop will break down the basic steps you can follow to conduct practical on-farm research projects to answer questions about a range of practices, from soil health, plant breeding and cultivar selection, and climate resilience. It will feature a panel of farmers who will share their motivation for doing research on their farms, their experience running basic experiments with accessible and inexpensive tools, and the different opportunities available to receive funding and assistance to develop farmer-led research projects. The aim of this workshop is to provide the background and tools needed to cultivate your curiosity and problem-solving skills into your own research.
Speakers
EA

Ellie Andrews

Specialty Crops Advisor for Sonoma, Marin, and Napa Counties, UC Cooperative Extension
avatar for Reyna Yagi

Reyna Yagi

Farmer/Owner, Yagi Sisters Farm
"First we eat, then we do everything else." ~ MFK FisherReyna also works for CAFF as a Groundwater Community Engagement Contractor, helping small farmers navigate and understand SGMA.
CH

Caiti Hachmyer

Farmer, Red H Farm
SG

Samuel Guitron

Gospel Swamp Farm
avatar for Moet Takata

Moet Takata

Ecological Pest Management Program Manager, CAFF
Moet supports the Ecological Pest Management Program to help farmers implement and sustain ecological pest management practices through applied research and outreach. She is based in the San Joaquin Valley, and conducts on-farm experiments in walnut orchards and winegrape vineyards... Read More →
Monday February 24, 2025 3:00pm - 4:15pm PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

3:00pm PST

Asian Specialty Crop
Monday February 24, 2025 3:00pm - 4:15pm PST
Online
In this conference I will be introducing a panel from different regions to talk about Asian Specialty Crop and the impact of how each region is doing. This is to create the talk of what's happening in our markets, how we can brainstorm, help each other out, etc.
Speakers
AV

Addison Vang

Hmong Community Food Systems Outreach Specialist, University of Wisconsin-Madison
CR

Chiang Rai Lor

Aggregation Coordinator, FairShare CSA Coalition
JM

Monday February 24, 2025 3:00pm - 4:15pm PST
Online
  Sales & Marketing

4:45pm PST

Regulatory and Advocacy Tools for Small Food Producers
Monday February 24, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
Farmers, homesteaders, artisans, and cottage food makers have the right to produce the food they want, and consumers have the right to purchase what they want to feed their families. However, laws and regulatory overreach often restrict these choices, and while consumer demand for locally grown products is rising, increased regulation can drive out small farms and businesses.

In this workshop, we will explore key federal, state and local regulations that impact small food producers. We will examine the federal rules regarding meat and poultry production, the prohibitions on interstate sales of certain products such as raw milk, cottage food regulations, and FSMA safety regulations. Since this conference in CA based, we will also touch on the state and local rules for each of the above food categories and also address typical local zoning regulations, the state Right to Farm law, and more. We will examine the legal solutions - such as meat and milk share agreements - that can farmers and small producers can employ to remain viable and grow.

Finally, we will explore the various legislative, policy, and advocacy tools that seek to expand food freedom choice for everyone, and offer guidance on how producers can build partnerships with legislators and mobilize supporters to change the rules to their benefit.
Speakers
CD

Monday February 24, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
  Farm Biz & Management

4:45pm PST

Organic Practices for Citrus and Avocado Growers
Monday February 24, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
Organic production of subtropical tree crops along the coast revolves around maintaining tree health through management of irrigation, nutrients and cultural practices. Disease and pests of these trees will be discussed and practices that reduce the occurrence.
Speakers
BF
Monday February 24, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
  Organics
 
Tuesday, February 25
 

8:00am PST

What is Carbon Farming?
Tuesday February 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
What is “carbon farming”? As government agencies, retail corporations, and the general public have become more interested in sustainable farming, terms like “organic,” “climate-smart,” “regenerative,” and others have become the buzz words of our time – but often lose some of the meaning and power behind the original intent. Carbon farming is an emerging term to join this list, with growing interest from funding agencies and produce buyers. But what exactly is “carbon farming?”

Join a panel discussion hosted by the new Resource Conservation District (RCD) Regional Ag & Climate Hubs to explore the important role of carbon on working lands and discuss how RCDs are collaborating with farmers. Panel topics will include the basic science behind on-farm benefits of carbon, how RCDs can help growers plan and implement carbon farming, and successes and lessons learned in carbon farming in California. This presentation is aimed at helping farmers understand what carbon farming really is, improving their ability to talk about the environmental benefits their farms provide, and giving them familiarity with Carbon Farm Plans and the agencies that can fund the creation and implementation of these plans. Service providers and the general public are encouraged to join as well to deepen their understanding of these issues.
Speakers
JK

Joshua Kouri

Central Coast Soil Hub
MF

Margot Flynn

Sacramento Valley Regional Soil Hub Coordinator, Sacramento Valley Soil Hub
EB

Elena Bischak

California Associations of Resource Conservation Districts

Tuesday February 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

8:00am PST

Research on CalFresh & Other Nutrition Assistance Programs at Farmers’ Markets
Tuesday February 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
This workshop will share research updates from three groups of UC ANR academics seeking to grow the use of CalFresh at farmers’ markets, as well as improve the experience of shoppers using CalFresh at markets. The recent funding threat to Market Match underscored the value of programs that connect direct marketing farmers and shoppers using nutrition assistance benefits. Each research program is testing interventions or listening for information that will strengthen those connections. You’ll hear about:

• NPI’s Market Match Research: In the summer of 2024, the Nutrition Policy Institute enrolled about 80 CalFresh recipients, that don’t use Market Match, in a pilot intervention testing the effectiveness of using text messages to inform participants about the Market Match program offered at a farmers’ market near their recruitment site. Participants completed an initial and follow-up survey, and a small sub-sample took part in an in-depth interview.

• CalFresh at Farmers Market Assessment Tool: UC ANR academics, Shannon Klisch and Cassandra Nguyen, collaborated to develop a tool that supports best practices for market staff to welcome CalFresh shoppers. The tool is based on a systematic review of published literature, pilot testing with market managers, and surveying content experts in the field. Practices included in the tool cover program implementation, accessibility considerations, market culture, communications about programs, and marketing.

• Sacramento Region Market Access Survey: UC Cooperative Extension Advisor Olivia Henry surveyed the managers of 70 markets in the greater Sacramento region in the spring and summer of 2024. She asked about what motivated and challenged them around CalFresh and the WIC/Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program. The results point to several recommendations for public agencies and technical assistance providers.
Speakers
SS

Samantha Sam-Chen

Project Policy Analyst, UC Nutrition Policy Institute
CN

Cassandra Nguyen

Assistant Professor of Cooperative Extension, UC Davis
OH

Olivia Henry

Regional Food Systems Area Advisor, UC Cooperative Extension

Tuesday February 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
  Farmers Market Professionals

9:45am PST

Grants: Preparing for the Proposal
Tuesday February 25, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
This workshop is designed to help producers and processors who are new to grant applications. There are many steps to take prior to beginning the application process: registering with the System for Award Management, creating a mission statement, defining your goals and needs, finding programs that are the right fit, and more! This workshop will, 1) provide an overview of everything the small producer should do before beginning their proposal in order to maximize success; 2) outline the differences between private, state, and federal grants; 3) provide resources for applicants searching for the right grant for their business; and 4) provide a few basic tips and tricks for writing a proposal.
Organizer
LT
Speakers
LD
avatar for Lauren McCawley

Lauren McCawley

RFSI Program Manager, California Department of Food and Agriculture
Lauren McCawley is the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Program Manager for the California Department of Food and Agriculture.The purpose of the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program is to build resilience in the middle of the food supply chain; to provide... Read More →

Tuesday February 25, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
  Farm Biz & Management

11:30am PST

Mentorship Magic! How mentorship strengthens organic & bolsters beginning farmer success
Tuesday February 25, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
Hear from farmers who are part of the West – Southwest Transition to Organic Partnership (TOPP) Program for a conversation about the importance of farmer-to-farmer mentoring and their pivotal role in expanding organic and supporting beginner farmer success. Join the conversation and find out how to become a mentor or find a mentor!
Speakers
JM

Justin Miller

Twin Peaks Orchard
avatar for Molly Nakahara

Molly Nakahara

Education Manager, CCOF Foundation
Advancing organic by supporting people and communities who care for the land. The CCOF Foundation unites the organic community to offer intentional education, financial support, and growth opportunities for organic professionals.

Tuesday February 25, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
  Organics

1:15pm PST

Blending Habitat Conservation & Restoration into Ag Landscapes: From Research to Reality
Tuesday February 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
Western Sustainable Agriculture and Research (SARE) supports farmer and rancher driven research on the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainable agriculture throughout the western U.S. and Pacific Islands. These research projects produce data-driven recommendations to assist producers and other land managers in making management decisions, such as integrating habitat conservation and restoration into agricultural landscapes.

This workshop will highlight two producers using Western SARE Farmer/Rancher grants to investigate management practices in different California landscapes to enhance sustainable agriculture.
Jesse Trace, Traceland Ranch in Cayucos, CA, will discuss his work on implementing rehydration and restoration practices, including berms, recharge basins, and plantings, to increase water infiltration and crop production as well as developing native oak cultivars for use as a food source.
Alex Palmerlee, Far View Ranch in Bangor, CA, will talk about how grazing management can aid in natural oak recruitment as a landscape-scale solution. They will share the outcomes of their own research and their experiences in conducting research through the Western SARE Farmer/Rancher grant program.
Speakers
JT

Jesse Trace

Traceland Ranch
AP

Alex Palmerlee

Far View Ranch Inc
avatar for Miranda Kersten

Miranda Kersten

Program Manager, Western SARE

Tuesday February 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

1:15pm PST

Farmers' Market Roundtable: Navigating Hot-Button Issues in Today’s Certified Farmers' Market Landscape
Tuesday February 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
This roundtable, hosted by the CA Alliance of Farmers' Markets, offers a dynamic space for farmers' market professionals and stakeholders  to come together and discuss the most pressing issues facing the industry today. In an open and collaborative format, participants will have the opportunity to share challenges, brainstorm solutions, and explore best practices around key topics such as market regulations, vendor management, financial sustainability, marketing, nutrition incentive grants, and the evolving role of markets in local communities.

CA Farmers' Market Industry leaders Cara Mae Woodloge of Napa Farmers Markets and Minni Forman Food and Farming Program Director at the Ecology Center will facilitate the discussion

With a focus on peer-to-peer learning, this session will encourage attendees to share insights, ask questions, and provide support to one another as they navigate the complexities of operating successful farmers' markets in California.

Speakers
avatar for Cara Mae Wooledge

Cara Mae Wooledge

Executive Director, Napa Farmers Market
MF

Minni Forman

Ecology Center
PB

Portia Bramble

North Coast Growers' Association
avatar for Marikit Mayeno

Marikit Mayeno

Food and Farming Program Coordinator, Ecology Center

Tuesday February 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
  Farmers Market Professionals

3:00pm PST

New and Ongoing Resources for Producers: Simple Grants for Compost and up to $25k for Healthy Soil Practices
Tuesday February 25, 2025 3:00pm - 4:15pm PST
Online
It can be difficult to obtain financing for conservation practices, as many government grants are confusing with burdensome reporting. Zero Foodprint exists to make it easy for growers to access funds for conservation practices, through our Compost Connector and Restore programs. This workshop will outline how each program works including eligibility, timelines, scoring criteria, and how they can overlap. There will also be time at the end for questions and attendees will be connected to the staff members who run each program if they have further questions.
Speakers
AW

Alana Williams

Zero Foodprint
Tuesday February 25, 2025 3:00pm - 4:15pm PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

4:45pm PST

Water Rights, Rural Water Systems and Water Use Efficiency
Tuesday February 25, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
Analysis of California water rights concerning small-scale agriculture and rural water consumers. Exploration of primary rural water systems, focusing on system reliability, life spans, and expenses. Examination of water usage efficiency, including a guide on conducting a distribution uniformity test and overall assessment of water systems, along with the importance of conducting such tests.
Speakers
TH

Tom Hammond

Abundance Ag Engineeirng

Tuesday February 25, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
  Farm Biz & Management
 
Wednesday, February 26
 

8:00am PST

Practical Tools for Implementing Regenerative Agriculture Practices
Wednesday February 26, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
Regenerative agriculture practices can build soil health and increase the resilience of farms to climate extremes. Access to equipment and information can be a barrier to entry for farmers who wish to experiment with new practices. This workshop will include a 30 min presentation on practical equipment considerations for implementing regenerative practices on California farms. In addition, the workshop will share practical resources and tools from the Western Cover Crops Council and the University of California Cooperative Extension that farmers can use to manage cover crops and adopt other soil health practices. Stories from California farms will be shared including successes, challenges, and strategies for when things do not go as planned. There is no one-size-fits all for implementing regenerative practices in a Mediterranean climate with diverse cropping systems and short crop rotations. Big picture considerations for maintaining soil health, implementing soil building practices and selecting cover crop species will be shared.
Speakers
SL

Sarah Light

UC Cooperative Extension

Wednesday February 26, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

9:45am PST

Soil Health In-Field Tests and Lab Analyses: What do they tell us? What are their limitations? How do they compare?
Wednesday February 26, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
There is no one metric that can be used to quantify soil health. Instead, we rely on measurements from an array of indicators to paint a picture of what is going on in the soil. With all of the options available, how do you know which tests to use? Are the results accurate? How do you put those results into context and build strong soil health on your farm? In this workshop, we will explore the various lab analyses and in-field measurements of soil health and talk about their benefits, drawbacks, and usage for farmers and technical assistance providers.
UC Cooperative Extension and UC Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program staff will share our experiences with measuring soil health and working to develop an in-field soil health assessment for farmers in Northern California.
Speakers
ML

Margaret Lloyd

Small and Organic Farms Advisor, UC Cooperative Extension
avatar for Lindsey Kelley

Lindsey Kelley

Small Farms Program Community Education Specialist, UC Cooperative Extension
VW

Wednesday February 26, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

11:30am PST

Apple Orchard Health
Wednesday February 26, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
This virtual workshop will provide a big-picture overview of key management strategies to promote apple orchard health. We will start with a 30-minute presentation that covers soil, nutrient, and water management and Integrated Pest Management strategies for insect pests and diseases focusing on organic/agroecological approaches. This will include examples and helpful photos of visual symptoms of different issues. At the end of the presentation, I will share a quick poll with the audience to ask them to rank which aspects of orchard health they'd like to hear most about from experienced apple growers. I'll share the results with everyone so we can all see which topics are highest priority. For the remainder of the time, we'll hear from a panel of small-scale commercial apple growers to learn which strategies they use in their orchards to promote orchard health, what works best for them in their context, and why. This will help show attendees what these strategies look like in practice and how strategies can be tailored to different orchard situations. After panelists feel they have covered the attendees' identified priority topics, we'll open it up for Q&A to help attendees explore how to effectively apply these strategies in their own orchards.
Speakers
TR

Ted Richardson

Bella Ridge Farm
ZS

Zea Sonnabend

Fruitilicious Farm
SD

Stan Devoto

Devoto Orchards
DH

Dave Hale

Hale's Apple Farm
EA

Ellie Andrews

Specialty Crops Advisor for Sonoma, Marin, and Napa Counties, UC Cooperative Extension

Wednesday February 26, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm PST
Online
  Farm Production / Practices

1:15pm PST

Cultivos de cobertura: mejorar la salud del suelo en cada temporada
Wednesday February 26, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
Cultivos de cobertura son integrales para la salud del suelo. Existen muchas especies y estrategias de cultivos de cobertura a lo largo de cada temporada. El objetivo de este taller es familiarizarse con las diferentes especies y estrategias de cultivos de cobertura en diferentes estaciones. Un panel de agricultores con experiencia en el uso de diferentes cultivos de cobertura liderará la discusión. El taller comenzará con una breve explicación de los diferentes roles de los cultivos de cobertura y su relación con la salud del suelo, la ecología microbiana y la formación de materia orgánica del suelo. Luego, cada uno de los tres agricultores compartirá sus experiencias con una de las siguientes estrategias de cultivos de cobertura: alforfón como cultivo a corto plazo entre rotaciones en el verano, trébol intercalado en surcos de verduras como brócoli y col rizada, y mostaza intercalada con fresas o verduras en el invierno.

Los tres agricultores panelistas son: Emilia Santos Pérez, propietaria de Alfa y Omega Organic Farm; Guillermo Lázaro, propietario de ALD & Y Organic Farm y Margarita Castro, propietaria de My Organic Farm. El taller será moderado por Daniel Hoffman, especialista en agricultura sostenible del Centro Nacional de Tecnología Apropiada (NCAT). Daniel tiene una M.Sc. en Ciencias de Cultivos y Suelos de la Universidad Estatal de Michigan.
Speakers
ES

Emilia Santos Perez

Alfa y Omega Organic Farm
GL

Guillermo Lazaro

ALD & Y Organic Farm
MC

Margarita Castro

My Organic Farm
DH

Daniel Hoffman

National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT)

Wednesday February 26, 2025 1:15pm - 2:30pm PST
Online
  Español, Español

4:45pm PST

Cómo prepararse para una inspección orgánica: Guía paso a paso
Wednesday February 26, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
Navegar por el proceso de inspección orgánica parece difícil, pero con la preparación adecuada, usted puede asegurar una experiencia de inspección sin problemas y con éxito. Este taller está diseñado para agricultores y productores que quieren certificar orgánico o aquellos que desean mantener su certificación. Si usted es nuevo en la certificación orgánica o si ya ha pasado antes por una inspección, esta sesión práctica le proporcionará las herramientas, los conocimientos y la confianza necesarios para prepararse para una inspección orgánica.

En este taller interactivo, los participantes aprenderán:
- Comprender las normas orgánicas: Obtener un conocimiento de las normas del Programa Nacional Orgánico (NOP) y cómo se aplican a su granja u operación.
- Requisitos de mantenimiento de registros: Aprender qué documentación se requiere para la inspección, incluidos los registros de producción, cosecha y venta. Discutiremos cómo establecer y mantener registros precisos que reflejen las prácticas orgánicas.
- Creación de un Plan de Sistema Orgánico (OSP): Descubra cómo desarrollar un Plan de Sistema Orgánico completo y efectivo que se alinee con los estándares NOP y aborde las necesidades específicas de su operación.
- Errores comunes de inspección: Comprenda los errores más comunes cometidos durante las inspecciones orgánicas y cómo evitarlos. Proporcionaremos consejos prácticos para ayudar a asegurar un proceso de inspección sin problemas.
- Preparación de su instalación: Obtenga consejos para organizar su granja o instalación para la inspección, incluyendo qué esperar durante la inspección, cómo preparar a su equipo, y cómo demostrar que sus prácticas cumplen con los requisitos orgánicos.
- Tratamiento de los incumplimientos: Aprenda a abordar los posibles incumplimientos que puedan surgir y asegúrese de que las medidas correctas se toman a tiempo.
- Inspección: El presentador cubrirá los detalles de una inspección correcta para poner en práctica lo aprendido.

Al final del taller, estará totalmente preparado para enfrentarse a su próxima inspección orgánica con confianza, asegurándose de que su granja o instalación sigue cumpliendo con los altos estándares de la certificación orgánica. Tanto si se está preparando para su primera inspección como si está revisando sus procesos para la renovación, este taller le dará las habilidades necesarias para tener éxito.

A quién va dirigido:
Este taller es ideal para agricultores, ganaderos, procesadores de alimentos y cualquier persona involucrada en el proceso de certificación ecológica, así como para aquellos interesados en mejorar sus prácticas y documentación ecológicas.

Duración:
1 hora (puede ajustarse en función de las necesidades de los participantes)
Lugar de taller:
Conferencia sobre pequeñas agrícolas del CAFF
Únase a nosotros y dé el primer paso hacia una experiencia de inspección orgánica eficiente y exitosa.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Núñez
BC

Wednesday February 26, 2025 4:45pm - 6:00pm PST
Online
  Español, Español
 
Thursday, February 27
 

12:30pm PST

North Bay Regional Gathering
Thursday February 27, 2025 12:30pm - 6:30pm PST
Green Valley Farm + Mill - 13024 Green Valley Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472
Join us at Green Valley Farm + Mill, just outside Sebastopol, CA, for the North Bay gathering of the CA Small Farm Conference. This event, open to anyone working within the small farm community, will feature an afternoon of educational workshops, panels, farm tours and networking events followed by a happy hour social.

FULL SCHEDULE
ARRIVAL & WELCOME
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

SESSION ONE
1:00 - 2:15 pm  
  • Farm to School
  • Dry Farming Techniques
  • Farm Tour with Green Valley Farm + Mill & Brambletail Homestead (repeated at 4pm)

SESSION TWO
2:30 - 3:45  
  • Rodent Pest Control 
  • Selling to Food Banks
  • Pricing for Different Markets & Knowing Your Cost to Grow

SESSION THREE
4:00 - 5:15 pm
  • Selling Wholesale & Working with Food Hubs
  • Farmers Markets & Other Direct Sales
  • Farm Tour with Green Valley Farm + Mill & Brambletail Homestead (repeated at 1pm)

HAPPY HOUR WITH FOOD & DRINKS 
5:30 - 6:30 pm


NOTE: Snacks, drinks, and lite bites (tamales!) during happy hour will be provided. Warm layers and farm-appropriate attire encouraged. Make sure to add this event to your personal schedule on Sched to receive updates.


EVENT PARTNERS:
  • Community Alliance with Family Farmers
  • University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
  • California Department of Food and Agriculture
  • Agricultural Institute Of Marin
  • Southwest Regional Food Business Center, University of California, Santa Cruz

Organizer
avatar for Layla Aguilar

Layla Aguilar

Ecological Farming Program Manager, CAFF
AS

Arabelle Schoenberg

North Bay Regional Lead, Farmer Services, CAFF
avatar for Evan Wiig

Evan Wiig

Communications Director, CAFF
Evan Wiig is the Director of Membership & Communications for Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF) and the founder of The Farmers Guild. A community organizer with a passion for regenerative agriculture, he's not only worked on farms and ranches across California, but previously... Read More →
Speakers
CH

Caiti Hachmyer

Farmer, Red H Farm
CR

Clare Reisman

criesman@santarosa.edu
avatar for Yvonne Socolar

Yvonne Socolar

Research Scientist, UC Berkeley
Yvonne's research interests lie at the nexus of agriculture and climate resilience. She studies how diversified management practices influence plant-soil-microbe interactions to promote farms’ ecological and economic well-being, particularly in the face of water limitations.
ZB
BM

Breanna Martinico

UC Cooperative Extension

Thursday February 27, 2025 12:30pm - 6:30pm PST
Green Valley Farm + Mill - 13024 Green Valley Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472 13024 Green Valley Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472
  In Person Gathering
 
From $20.00
2025 California Small Farm Conference
From $20.00
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