Workshop

In the morning, Craig Holdrege explores how to work with the living dynamic qualities of plants and animals to better understand the world around us. In the afternoon, Sherry Wildfeuer, a long-time editor of the Stella Natura planting calendar, explains how the calendar is created, what it tells us, and how we can use it to learn to work with, rather than against, nature’s rhythms and forces.

The mission of biodynamics has always been one of fostering health for the purpose of universal human freedom.

The goal of the “farm organism” is so that every farm might source from within its own boundaries, all its own fertility needs that stream in from the cosmos.

One of the most transformative effects of the biodynamic preparations is not just on the soil, but on the imaginations of those who practice making the preparations. New possibilities open up when you practice creating with your own hands the fruits of a remarkable intuition.

Biodynamic Preparations as a Totality with a Focus on Valerian (507) and Yarrow (502) - Speakers: Luke Frey - Farthest Field Farms; Lloyd Nelson, Biodynamic Source; Dawn Rains, Living Soil Gardens; Harald Hoven, BD Consultant; Delmar McComb and Carin Fortin; Blossoms Farm; Gina Nonini, Marian Farms; Dr.

Hugh Williams, one of the best orchardists in the East and a biodynamic farmer for over forty five years, brings his perspective on harnessing the local ecology to cultivate the farm individuality. Also covered: the science and art of pruning fruit trees, including a few hours of pruning the Pfeiffer Center’s orchard under Hugh’s expert guidance.

Hugh is the owner of Threshold Farm in Philmont, NY. He has been growing fruit trees and orchards using biodynamic methods on a commercial scale for more than forty five years.

The ideal biodynamic farm is a self-contained individuality to which cows contribute milk, meat, and soil fertility. Megan Durney shares about the essential nature of the animal, and Kim Vaughan covers the basics of biodynamic dairy herd management, including rotational grazing and pasture management. The day includes a visit to our herd, cow barn, and dairy, the only one in Rockland County.

Join us at the Josephine Porter Institute for a hands-on practical experience learning some of the subtle aspects of making biodynamic preparations from Friday evening October 6, 7, 8, 2023 for food, fellowship, and inspiration!

An opportunity for our students and friends to join us in the art of making festival at the Spikenard Biodynamic Honeybee Sactuary... a wonderful learning experience with the chance to renew our inspirations and communal connection with the cycles of the year, including three days of special lectures, deepened beekeeping and observational experiences, artistic work, stirring the preparations, and a festival celebration. We will also be honoring and celebrating the 100-year anniversary of Rudolf Steiner's Bee Lectures given in 1923. Snacks and lunch are included each day.

The southeast biodynamic association will be hosting a preparation-making workshop on May 28-29 at Long Hungry Creek Farm in Red Boiling Springs, TN. This workshop is free and attendees may camp on the farm or stay in the local hotel (Armour's, 615-699-2810). Food will be potluck.

Pre-registration is appreciated. Please contact Jeff Poppen at barefootfarmer@gmail.com or call 615-699-2493 for additional information or to register.

Learn with all 5 of your senses at Otter Creek Organic Farm with Gary Zimmer, Leilani Zimmer-Durand and friends. A two-day, educational journey to improve your land's value and potential.

Every year, the Eco-Ag Conference & Trade Show sets a new standard for innovative and practical learning in modern agriculture. Each moment of programming is thoughtfully curated to provide useful, practical, and measurable information and connections that you can apply to your operation. Join us for the main conference and trade show on Dec. 5-7 or decide to come early for one of our incredible full-day Eco-Ag U intensive workshops… either way you can expect a fulfilling experience that will include: