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Aspiring Farmers Day

• Saturday, March 14, 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:15 PM

Join us for Aspiring Farmer Day, a hands-on learning event designed to help beginning and prospective farmers take the next step in their agricultural journey. Hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension Putnam County and the ENYCHP team, this day offers a chance to learn directly from regional experts and connect with other new farmers.

Breakout Learning Sessions include:

• Vegetable Production Basics for New Growers with Teresa Rusinek, ENYCHP — Foundational insights for new vegetable growers including site preparation, soil health fundamentals, crop planning and rotation strategies, season extension basics, and pest management for small-scale operations. Ideal for those starting their first market garden or adding vegetables to an existing farm.

• Small Fruit Success: Growing Berries in the Hudson Valley with Heather Kase, ENYCHP —Introduction to small fruit production covering variety selection for the Hudson Valley climate, site assessment and soil preparation, planting systems and spacing, first-year establishment and care, and common pest and disease challenges. Perfect for those considering adding perennial berry crops to their farm plan.
• Growing Grapes for Wine and Fresh Market with Jeremy Schuster, ENYCHP — Growing grapes in the Hudson Valley for wine production or fresh market sales. Topics include site selection and vineyard planning, variety recommendations for the region, trellising and training systems, pest and disease management specific to grapes, and harvest timing and quality considerations.

• Turning Farm Dreams into Viable Businesses with Liz Higgins, ENYCHP — Comprehensive session on farm business fundamentals including developing a business plan, understanding farm finances and recordkeeping, pricing strategies and profit margins, marketing and branding basics, and accessing capital and grants. Essential for anyone turning their farm idea into a sustainable business.

• Getting Started with Poultry and Small Livestock with Brandy Keenan, CCE Putnam — Introduction to raising poultry and small ruminants (sheep and goats) on small-scale farms. Topics include breed selection for various purposes (eggs, meat, fiber, dairy), housing and infrastructure requirements, feeding and nutrition basics, flock and herd health management, pasture management and rotational grazing, and navigating local regulations and zoning. Designed for beginners interested in adding livestock diversity to their farm operation.

There will be a drop-in Q&A and one-on-one consultations with representatives from key agricultural support agencies. Bring your specific questions about funding opportunities, conservation programs, technical assistance, land-use planning and local resources.

Perfect for anyone considering a farm start-up or expanding an existing operation.

Rain Date: March 21

Fee

$30

Register

http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2026_Aspiring_Farmer_Day

Location

North Salem Community Center
3 Owens Road
Croton Falls, NY 10519

Last updated March 3, 2026