White Feather Farm News!
The Dirt with Marcos | White Feather Farm News
August 14, 2024
Soil Fest 2024 Recap: Celebrating the Ground Beneath Our Feet
The day began with the thought-provoking Carbon Sponge program led by researcher Brooke Singer. Participants embarked on a guided meditation through the layers of the earth and the respiration cycle, setting the tone for a day of deep connection with our environment. Brooke highlighted the crucial role of soil in carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation, featuring the Carbon Sponge's work with sorghum as a climate-resilient, soil-friendly crop. The program also shed light on how small farms across the Hudson Valley are engaging in soil testing through the Small Farms Carbon Sponge Hub, emphasizing the importance of local action in global sustainability efforts.
The "Dirt It Yourself" workshop buzzed with activity as attendees delved into the world of composting, biochar, and regenerative practices. Conversations flowed as freely as the compost tea being brewed, with our staff tirelessly sharing knowledge about sustainable soil management. The community's hunger for this information was both inspiring and invigorating.
On July 27, White Feather Farm welcomed nearly 100 soil enthusiasts for Soil Fest 2024, a day dedicated to honoring and understanding the complex ecosystem that sustains all life on Earth. The event showcased the magic that happens when a community comes together to celebrate and learn about the very foundation of our existence.
Families joined in the fun with our Soil Safari and Scavenger Hunt, exploring the farm and uncovering the hidden wonders of soil ecosystems. The palpable excitement from both children and adults as they searched for items all over the farm. served as a heartening reminder that curiosity about our environment knows no age limit.
As the afternoon progressed, Arrowood Farm Brewery's Alternative Grain Beer Tasting offered a unique perspective on the relationship between soil health and our food systems. Participants sipped on beers brewed with locally grown sorghum and rice while discussing the vital role of crop diversity in maintaining soil vitality.
Throughout the day, the USDA Soil Shop provided free lead screenings of soil samples, underscoring the direct impact of soil health on our daily lives and well-being. This practical application of soil science brought home the importance of understanding and caring for the earth beneath our feet.
The event culminated with a lively performance by O'Sullivan's March, their Celtic and Irish tunes celebrating cultural roots as deep and varied as the soil ecosystems we'd spent the day exploring.
“Soil Fest 2024 was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of community action in addressing global challenges. Each workshop, conversation, and handful of soil examined represented a step towards a more sustainable future. At White Feather Farm, a Certified Naturally Grown and Real Organic Farm, we prioritize soil health every day, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable agriculture.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, our partners (including The Ground Up Food Truck for their delicious offerings), and the countless microorganisms working tirelessly beneath our feet. You are all integral to nurturing the foundation of life itself.
As we move forward, let's carry this energy with us. Every garden planted, every compost pile turned, and every sustainable choice made honors the intricate web of life that begins with healthy soil. By caring for our soil, we care for our planet and all its inhabitants.
Here's to dirty hands and bright futures. Until next year's Soil Fest, keep digging deep and nurturing the earth beneath your feet!
With Gratitude,
Marcos Stafne, Executive Director, White Feather Farm
The Dirt with Marcos | White Feather Farm News
June 20,2024
There’s a popular adage by Gary Snyder that goes "Nature is not a place to visit. It is home."
Last month, we welcomed a community of those who feel at home in nature to our Open House at White Feather Farm. As the new Executive Director, I was inspired by the incredible turnout and the enthusiasm of both new and returning visitors. It was a privilege to meet so many of you, to hear your stories, and to witness the deep connection you feel to this special place.
From the informative farm and greenhouse tours led by our knowledgeable farmers, to the enchanting storytelling of Wade Baker and the lively Balkan tunes of Mac&Cheeze, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Hands-on activities like seed bomb making and the soil stew workshop allowed visitors of all ages to engage with the promise of organic farming, while our biochar demonstration provided valuable insights for those seeking to deepen their understanding of sustainable practices to help enrich the soil.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to our remarkable team for their hard work in putting together such an exceptional event. Their dedication and passion for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship were evident in every aspect of the day.
As I embark on my journey at White Feather Farm, I am energized by the vital role this organization plays in fostering a love and appreciation for the potential of organic farming. We are not just a farm, but a model for sustainable living, an educational resource, and a catalyst for positive change. I look forward to learning more about our local community and working with all of you to continue cultivating and celebrating the beauty and purpose of this extraordinary place we call home.
We can't wait to welcome you back to the farm soon, where nature's beauty is always ready to nourish our stomachs souls! And remember, our farm stand is open every Saturday from 9am-2pm throughout the summer, offering the freshest, most beautiful produce around.
With Gratitude,
Marcos Stafne, Executive Director, White Feather Farm