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We believe that the educational and professional development of tomorrow’s growers and producers informs the health of our diverse local-food system and rural economy.
Based upon CRAFT models like Organic Growers School's WNC CRAFT and similar apprenticeship networks, Blue Ridge CRAFT connects aspiring farmers with experienced farmers and encourages innovative on-farm educational and professional experiences. Providing tools to established farmers that will enhance their mentorship abilities is central to Blue Ridge CRAFT's efforts. CRAFT first emerged in New York's Hudson Valley in 1994 as "a cooperative effort of local organic and biodynamic farms organized to enhance educational opportunities for farm apprentices." And, it has since spread to many other communities. Each organization is unique, but dedicated to the advancement of tomorrow's growers. To learn more about other CRAFT organizations, click here. In the fall of 2014, Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture was approached by established farmers seeking a way to provide structured education and training to their on-farm apprentices. Through further input from the community, Blue Ridge CRAFT was formed in 2015 with the goals of:
As we work together to form a more resilient and just food system and local economy, Blue Ridge CRAFT believes that is imperative that we encourage candid, meaningful conversations, form durable and inclusive partnerships, engage best practices, and excite innovation and creativity. |
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When: January 29th, 2025
Time: 6pm-8pm Where: Online (Zoom) Cost: Free Join Organic Growers School, Blue Ridge Women in Ag, Michael Rayburn (NC Extension), & Lenwood Edwards and Jay Dunbar (CFSA) to discuss ways to pivot post-storm and how it's been going so far. This event is open to any WNC or Helene-affected farmer. Topics include:
Questions? email OGS Programs Coordinator Megan Krintz at [email protected]. |
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When: March 2nd, 2025. 2pm-4pm
Where: Tumbling Shoals Farm, Wilkes County Cost: Free This workshop is designed to provide the tools and skills necessary to manage your farm’s finances effectively. From tracking expenses and income to understanding cash flow and financial planning, we hope you will leave with a better grasp on your farms finances. This session will cover tools and strategies for record-keeping, tracking sales data, planning your finances strategically. Both beginning and experienced farmers welcome, this workshop will provide you with the confidence and resources to keep your farm's finances in order. |
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When: March 13th, 2025. 5:30pm-7pm
Where: Virtual, Zoom. Cost: Free Join Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture and Stephen Ussery, founder of Stewards Unlimited for a Farmer Focused Grant Writing Workshop! With expert advice tailored to agricultural needs, farmers will learn practical strategies for crafting compelling proposals, maximizing funding potential, and overcoming common application challenges. Whether you're new to grants or seeking to enhance your skills, this workshop will empower you to confidently secure funding for your farm projects. |
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2024 Workshops:
In 2023, Blue Ridge CRAFT hosted 18 workshops
that engaged over 140 aspiring, beginning, and established farmers. 2023 Workshops:
2021 Workshops:
CRAFT events postponed due to COVID-19 Pandemic
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2025 Workshops:
In 2022, Blue Ridge CRAFT hosted 17 workshops
that engaged 157 aspiring, beginning, and established farmers. 2022 Workshops:
2020 Workshops: CRAFT events postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. 2019 Workshops:
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2018 Workshops
2016 Workshops:
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2017 Workshops:
2015 Workshops
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