Bring your soil sample for testing to these upcoming events!
We are excited to offer free Soil Tests with Analysis and Recommendations to attendees of these upcoming events listed below. If you plan to attend but cannot bring a sample in advance, we can guide you on how to collect it during the event. We invite you to bring a soil sample from your garden, farm, or landscape to be tested for soil chemistry as part of our upcoming workshop series on soil health. This is your chance to get real data about your soil and learn how to interpret it alongside experienced educators and fellow growers!
September 3rd - Winchendon, MA
Soil Smarts: Testing, Reading, and Amending Organically
Event Series: Beginning Farmer Soil Health Training (FREE)
How well do you know your soil? Join the NOFA/Mass Technical Assistance team for a hands-on workshop that unpacks and demystifies the Chemical Soil Test, and demonstrates how the test can inform an on-farm soil health plan, or certified Organic Systems Plan (OSP). Whether you’re a beginning grower or an experienced organic farmer (certified or not), this session will help you sharpen your skills and make the most of your soil’s potential.
Cost: Free. A light lunch will be provided.
NOFA/Mass is happy to provide travel stipends to BIPOC and/or beginning farmer participants in this workshop. See confirmation email upon registration for submission details.
September 5th - Beverly, MA
Biological Diversity: Fostering Thriving Ecosystems Below Ground
Embark on a captivating exploration of soil biology in our Biological Diversity workshop. Journey into the dynamic world of soil microbes, organic matter, and decomposition as we unravel the essential role of biological processes in soil health. Through hands-on activities and insightful demonstrations, participants will gain a deeper understanding of microbial communities and their impact on soil fertility and resilience. This workshop will cover microbial collections techniques that the NOFA/Mass soil technical team employs to assess and enhance biological diversity in their agricultural systems. Whether you’re a farmer, gardener, or environmental enthusiast, this workshop offers invaluable knowledge and practical skills to cultivate thriving soils and sustainable landscapes.
Cost: Free
NOFA/Mass is happy to provide travel stipends to all BIPOC and/or beginning farmer participants in this workshop.
September 8th - Lawrence, MA
Underground Allies: Growing with the Soil Food Web
Every grower knows that successful cultivation is more than just planting a seed and waiting. It’s a dynamic blend of art, science, and deep connection with the living ecosystem beneath our feet. NOFA/Mass invites you to explore one of the most powerful — and often overlooked — tools for creating thriving gardens and farms: the microbial life in your soil.
In this interactive workshop, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of the Soil Food Web — the bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and other microscopic allies that form the foundation of soil health. You’ll learn how to assess and establish a healthy baseline of microbial life, and discover practices that bring soil biology into balance to support long-term organic fertility. This workshop is for growers of any experience who wish to learn more about soil microbes.