Kirstin Bailey, [email protected], 402.870.2390; or Rhea Landholm, brand marketing and communications manager, [email protected] or 402.687.2100 ext. 1025
Lyons, NE - The Center for Rural Affairs will host the second in it’s series of learning circles of women farmers and landowners in eastern Nebraska to provide sustainable farming and conservation education and outreach. Post Harvest Handling and Soil Health will be held at Robinette Farms, Martell, NE on June 18, 2016.
The circles are co-led by agricultural professionals at the Center for Rural Affairs and farmer-leaders. They provide education on successful and sustainable production in a changing climate.
The first circle held on April 30 saw an impressive turnout with nearly 20 women in attendance.
“We saw a mix of beginning and established farmers, landowners, and those new to management come together to learn about tools and equipment to deal with our changing climate at the last Women's Learning Circle,” commented Kirstin Bailey, Project Organizer with the Center for Rural Affairs. “Everyone had a great time meeting new women farmers and discussing their farms.”
Bailey added, “Whether beginning or established farmers, experienced landowners or new to management, we have seen that women on farms largely share a commitment to environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Most raise a combination of specialty crops and small livestock, often with organic practices.”
According to the Center for Rural Affairs, learning circles are an important, innovative method for giving participants the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to enact change. In addition to learning from experts, our group will engage in peer-to-peer learning.
Participating women are considered the “experts” on their own production, farmland, and conservation needs, and are encouraged to speak about their own experiences and goals rather than passively listen to a professional in a traditional lecture format. This format builds knowledge and confidence.
“We are excited for this next event and can't wait to get together again,” concluded Bailey. “We encourage any woman who is interested in farming or is farming to come and participate.”
Event Details:
What: Women Farmer and Landowner Learning Circles: Post Harvest Handling and Soil Health
When: Saturday, June 18, 2016
9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Robinette Farms
17675 SW 14th, Martell, NE 68404
Topic: Post Harvest Handling and Soil Health; Topics covered include: how to handle produce after it is harvested, storage methods, as well as cover crops and soil preservation techniques
Light refreshments and snacks will be provided after the learning circle.
Since seating is limited, interested participants are asked to register in advance by June 15 to reserve a space.
