OSA is leading two hands-on trainings in Montana next month focused on seed harvesting, handling, and quality. The first event will teach organic specialty crop producers and experienced seed savers how to improve the quality of the seed they grow. The second event will teach farmers hands-on methods for improving their seed cleaning skills. Space is limited so interested participants are encouraged to register early. Both events are free.
Improve the Quality of the Seed You Grow
When: November 11, 2017 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: Missoula Public Library, 301 E. Main St., Missoula, Montana
Cost: Free of charge
Register: Click here or visit www.seedalliance.org/events
This workshop is designed for organic specialty crop producers and experienced seed savers who want to improve the quality of the seed they grow. This seed quality training is geared toward specialty crop growers who already save seed for on-farm use and/or produce seed under commercial contracts, as well as growers who are interested in integrating seed into their diversified operation. The workshop will cover how to monitor and improve the genetic quality, germination levels, and physical condition of the seed you grow. Participants should have basic knowledge in seed biology and are encouraged to review OSA’s publications and tutorials at www.seedalliance.org/publications before the workshop. Prior experience in growing seed is recommended.
Take Your Seed Cleaning Skills to the Next Level
When: November 12, 2017
Where: Good Egg Farm, 50537 Moiese Valley Rd., Moiese, Montana
Cost: Free of charge
Register: Click here or visit www.seedalliance.org/events
This hands-on training will help farmers take their organic specialty crop seed processing and handling skills to the next level. The workshop will include a demonstration of seed cleaning, processing, and handling. Demonstrations will include low-tech, hands-on techniques as well as small-scale seed cleaning equipment. A number of vegetable seed crops will be the focus of this two-hour training. Participants are invited to bring small quantities of their uncleaned seed crops to receive technical advice from instructors and other participants. The workshop is intended for farmers with prior seed growing experience. Participants are encouraged to review OSA’s publications and tutorials at www.seedalliance.org/publications before the workshop.
These workshops are made possible thanks to a grant awarded through the Montana Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
