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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260414T140000
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DTSTAMP:20260403T175610
CREATED:20260401T194801Z
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UID:7939-1776175200-1776185100@nofa.organiclandcare.net
SUMMARY:Landscape Practices\, Ethics\, and Expertise: Indigenous Perspectives
DESCRIPTION:This course confers 2.5 CEUs for AOLCPs. AOLCPs receive 10% off the cost of the course. The discount code is available in the AOLCP Portal. If you have problems accessing the portal\, please email us. \nPart 1 | Wetlands: Ecological & Cultural Values\nBonnie Thomas & Nancy Turner\, PhD \nIn Northwestern North America\, wetlands (bogs\, estuaries\, swamps\, ponds\, tidal marshes)\, have been fundamental habitats and biodiversity hotspots. For over 14\,000 years\, these special ecosystems have provided First Peoples of the region with important foods\, medicines\, and materials. Many of our wetlands today have deteriorated and are in serious need of restoration. We dedicate the talk to Bonnie’s late Mother\, Secwepemc knowledge keeper\, Dr. Mary Thomas\, who taught us about a key wetland in her territory: the Salmon River estuary. \nPart 2 | What is the Role and Responsibility of a Professional in Respecting Indigenous Rights?\nPeggy Smith\, PhD \nWe often think upholding Indigenous rights is the responsibility of governments\, but professionals who work in the field of lands and resources have the potential to either undermine or uphold Indigenous rights. Dr. Smith will discuss how Indigenous rights shape land management and development\, as well as the responsibilities of professionals to uphold those rights through training and practice. \nLearn more and register here.
URL:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/event/landscape-practices-ethics-and-expertise-indigenous-perspectives/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Continuing Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NDAL_April_2026_landscape_practices_ethics.png
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T175610
CREATED:20260318T144608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T144608Z
UID:7919-1776366000-1776371400@nofa.organiclandcare.net
SUMMARY:Evenings with Experts: How to Grow a Better Bird Feeder
DESCRIPTION:This event confers 1 CEU for AOLCPs \nPresented by Desirée L. Narango\, Conservation Biologist\, Vermont Center for EcoStudies \nBird populations are declining at an alarming rate due to habitat loss\, climate change\, and pesticides. Fortunately\, there are simple actions you can take to restore critical bird habitat in your yards and gardens. In this talk\, Desirée will share her research on the importance of native plants to food webs\, why insects matter for bird conservation\, and the practical steps you can take to support bird habitat throughout the year. \nDesirée L. Narango is a conservation scientist at the Vermont Center for EcoStudies. Her research program focuses on understanding how global change impacts bird and insect populations\, and identifying conservation solutions in human-dominated habitats including residential yards and urban green spaces. Desirée has a Ph.D. in Entomology and Wildlife Ecology from the University of Delaware. \nJoin this FREE workshop in-person in Lexington\, MA (no registration required) or sign up to view it online via Zoom
URL:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/event/evenings-with-experts-how-to-grow-a-better-bird-feeder/
LOCATION:First Parish Church\, 7 Harrington Rd.\, Lexington\, MA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Continuing Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/grow-native-mass-logo.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260417T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260417T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T175610
CREATED:20260204T213549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T194628Z
UID:7884-1776416400-1776441600@nofa.organiclandcare.net
SUMMARY:Urban Tree Symposium: Beneath the Canopy: Roots\, Soil\, and City Life
DESCRIPTION:This event confers 4 CEUs for AOLCPs \nNew England Botanic Garden’s annual Urban Tree Symposium is dedicated to exploring the importance of urban forests and ways we can improve our green spaces. Each symposium brings together experts in the fields of forestry\, horticulture\, biology\, technology and more. You can expect to hear current and important information that will impact your work in our communities and your own home. The Urban Tree Symposium is geared towards current and aspiring professionals\, students and tree enthusiasts.   \nThis event is sponsored by Bartlett Tree Experts and co-hosted in partnership with the Ecological Landscape Alliance.  \nLearn more.
URL:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/event/urban-tree-symposium-beneath-the-canopy-roots-soil-and-city-life/
LOCATION:New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill\, 11 French Dr.\, Boylston\, MA\, 01505\, United States
CATEGORIES:conferences,Continuing Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/AE-2026-Urban-Tree-Symposium-HERO-April-17-march-2026.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260509T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260509T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T175610
CREATED:20260401T135917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T140033Z
UID:7929-1778324400-1778335200@nofa.organiclandcare.net
SUMMARY:Microscopy Training @ Woven Roots Farm
DESCRIPTION:Take control of your soil’s health! CT NOFA is excited to offer microscopy training this spring. \nThis course confers 4 CEUs for AOLCPs and any current AOLCP will receive $50 off the course price. You must be logged in to the OLC Portal to access the discount. Be sure to login using the link in the upper right corner of the ticketing page. Email us if you have difficulty accessing the discount. \n\nCourse Overview\nParticipants will view various soils and composts\, looking at the different soil structures and the microbes that thrive in healthy soil. Demonstrations include how to prepare a slide for viewing\, what you might find and how to evaluate your findings. Participants will be trained to analyze the following: \n\nBacteria : Fungi ratios – what they mean and why they’re important\nAggregate structure in soil/compost\nBacteria numbers and diversity\nQuality of fungi and what that means for your soil\nPredators – identify and quantify both aerobic and anaerobic microbes\nCompost tea and extracts – microbial populations that exist in real time\n\nThroughout the training we will discuss ways to create healthy\, living soil using regenerative agriculture techniques. At the completion of the training you will be ready to use your microscope to evaluate soil and compost\, with the ability to store the information in written and visual form\, to share\, and compare with future samples. \nDuring the in-person session (see Course Schedule\, below) all participants will work with their own DELUXE Microscope\, with camera\, plus materials kit with test tubes\, pipettes\, slides\, etc. Once this course is complete\, you will have the opportunity to join us for future practice sessions\, as well as share your new skills at events and gatherings. \n\nCourse Schedule and Information\nThis course will be conducted over 3 recorded training sessions\, 2 live virtual sessions\, and 1 in-person training session. The course price is $675 (or $625 for CT NOFA members or AOLCPs) and includes a microscope for each participant that will be theirs to keep for independent use. \nRecorded Sessions\nThree pre-recorded training sessions will be made available to participants to watch at their own pace. \nVirtual Sessions\nAll participants are invited to attend two live virtual sessions (via Zoom) on the following dates: \n\nApril 28 – 6:00pm to 7:30pm\nMay 5 – 6:00pm to 7:30pm\n\nIn-Person Sessions\nParticipants select one of the following two dates and locations for their in-person training. Click below to register for the full course (3 recorded sessions + 2 virtual sessions + 1 in-person session at the selected location). Please note that there are only 6 participant slots per location (total 12 participants for the entire course); this course is expected to sell out quickly. \n\nMay 9 – 11:00am to 2:00pm @ Woven Roots Farm & Community Center in Tyringham\, MA | REGISTER HERE\nJune 6 – 11:00am to 2:00pm @ The Hickories Farm in Ridgefield\, CT | REGISTER HERE\n\nPlease additionally note that AOLCP pricing is only accessible if you are logged in to the portal. To do so\, click either of the registration links\, above. On the window that opens\, click “log in” in the upper right. If you are an AOLCP and are unable to log in\, please contact us. \n\nTestimonials\nIn May of 2023\, the NOFA-NY education team had the great privilege to participate in soil microscopy training with Monique Bosch through CT-NOFA. The virtual training time let us get familiar with microscopes\, learn to identify aggregates\, fungal hyphae\, nematodes\, and some soil structure basics. The in-person training at Bard College was incredible! We found our own soil samples and analyzed them with students from the college\, allowing us to test our teaching skills and gain confidence. I highly recommend Monique and this program. I have been able to work with farmers and gardeners now to look at their soil structures and teach them about what they see. \n– Samantha (NOFA-NY) \nAt Assawaga Farm\, our microscope is an indispensable tool for maintaining and improving our soil’s health. We use it to assess the biology of many things on the farm including potting soil\, compost\, teas\, as well as general soil tests from our fields\, and it allows us a better understanding of what the soil and crops need to be healthy\, productive\, and sustainable. Looking at our farm through a microscope opens up a whole new perspective that we use to inform our decisions. \n– Alex Carpenter (Assawaga Farm\, Putnam\, CT) \n\nClick here to learn more about CT NOFA’s Soil Health programming.
URL:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/event/microscopy-training-woven-roots-farm/
LOCATION:Woven Roots Farm\, 12 McCarty Rd.\, Tyringham\, MA\, 01264\, United States
CATEGORIES:Continuing Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Spring-2026-Microscopy-Training-Event-Banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T175610
CREATED:20260318T145132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T145132Z
UID:7924-1779303600-1779309000@nofa.organiclandcare.net
SUMMARY:Evenings with Experts: Explore the Nighttime World of Caterpillars & Moths
DESCRIPTION:This event confers 1 CEU for AOLCPs \nThe Caterpillar Lab will present a photograph and video packed talk that explores the nighttime world of caterpillars\, moths\, and how to find them. Join us to learn how we can explore our own backyard habitats through the eyes of a moth\, using UV and special light traps to uncover a whole new perspective. This special lecture will include time to meet a few special caterpillar specimens up close\, and chat with Caterpillar Lab educators about all things local caterpillar. In-person attendees will also get to try out blacklight flashlights! \nThe Caterpillar Lab is a non-profit based in New Hampshire that fosters greater appreciation and care for the complexity and beauty of natural history through live caterpillar educational programs\, research initiatives\, and photography and film projects. They believe that an increased awareness of one’s local environment is the foundation on which healthy and responsible attitudes towards the broader natural systems of this world are built. \nJoin this FREE workshop in-person in Boylston\, MA (no registration required) or sign up to view it online via Zoom
URL:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/event/evenings-with-experts-explore-the-nighttime-world-of-caterpillars-moths/
LOCATION:New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill\, 11 French Dr.\, Boylston\, MA\, 01505\, United States
CATEGORIES:Continuing Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/grow-native-mass-logo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260606T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260606T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T175610
CREATED:20260401T140454Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T140454Z
UID:7933-1780743600-1780754400@nofa.organiclandcare.net
SUMMARY:Microscopy Training @ The Hickories Farm
DESCRIPTION:Take control of your soil’s health! CT NOFA is excited to offer microscopy training this spring. \nThis course confers 4 CEUs for AOLCPs and any current AOLCP will receive $50 off the course price. You must be logged in to the OLC Portal to access the discount. Be sure to login using the link in the upper right corner of the ticketing page. Email us if you have difficulty accessing the discount. \n\nCourse Overview\nParticipants will view various soils and composts\, looking at the different soil structures and the microbes that thrive in healthy soil. Demonstrations include how to prepare a slide for viewing\, what you might find and how to evaluate your findings. Participants will be trained to analyze the following: \n\nBacteria : Fungi ratios – what they mean and why they’re important\nAggregate structure in soil/compost\nBacteria numbers and diversity\nQuality of fungi and what that means for your soil\nPredators – identify and quantify both aerobic and anaerobic microbes\nCompost tea and extracts – microbial populations that exist in real time\n\nThroughout the training we will discuss ways to create healthy\, living soil using regenerative agriculture techniques. At the completion of the training you will be ready to use your microscope to evaluate soil and compost\, with the ability to store the information in written and visual form\, to share\, and compare with future samples. \nDuring the in-person session (see Course Schedule\, below) all participants will work with their own DELUXE Microscope\, with camera\, plus materials kit with test tubes\, pipettes\, slides\, etc. Once this course is complete\, you will have the opportunity to join us for future practice sessions\, as well as share your new skills at events and gatherings. \n\nCourse Schedule and Information\nThis course will be conducted over 3 recorded training sessions\, 2 live virtual sessions\, and 1 in-person training session. The course price is $675 (or $625 for CT NOFA members or AOLCPs) and includes a microscope for each participant that will be theirs to keep for independent use. \nRecorded Sessions\nThree pre-recorded training sessions will be made available to participants to watch at their own pace. \nVirtual Sessions\nAll participants are invited to attend two live virtual sessions (via Zoom) on the following dates: \n\nApril 28 – 6:00pm to 7:30pm\nMay 5 – 6:00pm to 7:30pm\n\nIn-Person Sessions\nParticipants select one of the following two dates and locations for their in-person training. Click below to register for the full course (3 recorded sessions + 2 virtual sessions + 1 in-person session at the selected location). Please note that there are only 6 participant slots per location (total 12 participants for the entire course); this course is expected to sell out quickly. \n\nMay 9 – 11:00am to 2:00pm @ Woven Roots Farm & Community Center in Tyringham\, MA | REGISTER HERE\nJune 6 – 11:00am to 2:00pm @ The Hickories Farm in Ridgefield\, CT | REGISTER HERE\n\nPlease additionally note that AOLCP pricing is only accessible if you are logged in to the portal. To do so\, click either of the registration links\, above. On the window that opens\, click “log in” in the upper right. If you are an AOLCP and are unable to log in\, please contact us. \n\nTestimonials\nIn May of 2023\, the NOFA-NY education team had the great privilege to participate in soil microscopy training with Monique Bosch through CT-NOFA. The virtual training time let us get familiar with microscopes\, learn to identify aggregates\, fungal hyphae\, nematodes\, and some soil structure basics. The in-person training at Bard College was incredible! We found our own soil samples and analyzed them with students from the college\, allowing us to test our teaching skills and gain confidence. I highly recommend Monique and this program. I have been able to work with farmers and gardeners now to look at their soil structures and teach them about what they see. \n– Samantha (NOFA-NY) \nAt Assawaga Farm\, our microscope is an indispensable tool for maintaining and improving our soil’s health. We use it to assess the biology of many things on the farm including potting soil\, compost\, teas\, as well as general soil tests from our fields\, and it allows us a better understanding of what the soil and crops need to be healthy\, productive\, and sustainable. Looking at our farm through a microscope opens up a whole new perspective that we use to inform our decisions. \n– Alex Carpenter (Assawaga Farm\, Putnam\, CT) \n\nClick here to learn more about CT NOFA’s Soil Health programming.
URL:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/event/microscopy-training-the-hickories-farm/
LOCATION:The Hickories\, 136 Lounsbury Rd.\, Ridgefield\, CT\, 06877\, United States
CATEGORIES:Continuing Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Spring-2026-Microscopy-Training-Event-Banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260827
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260829
DTSTAMP:20260403T175610
CREATED:20251222T183509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T143250Z
UID:7846-1787788800-1787961599@nofa.organiclandcare.net
SUMMARY:2026 ELA Annual Conference & Eco-Marketplace
DESCRIPTION:ELA’s 32nd Annual Conference & Eco-Marketplace: Navigating Uncertainty\n\nThis conference will confer 4 CEUs for any attending AOLCPs \nThe Ecological Landscape Alliance (ELA) is excited to announce the 2026 Annual Conference & Eco-Marketplace to be held on August 27 and 28\, 2026\, in Providence\, Rhode Island. The Annual Conference brings together leaders in ecological landscape practices with a diverse range of professionals involved in landcare\, including landscape architects\, designers\, growers\, horticulturists\, land stewards\,  arborists\, and installation/maintenance technicians. We also welcome students\, educators\, native plant enthusiasts\, community activists\, and home gardeners. The event will feature a two-day\, multi-track program with opportunities to network\, learn\, and share new insights and strategies that contribute to sustainable and regenerative landscape management. \nLandscape Design\nPresentations will explore innovative ways to use native plants\, mitigate climate change\, and design spaces that encourage biodiversity\, including habitats for birds\, butterflies\, and other wildlife. Join us for some interactive workshops and discussions that will equip participants with practical tools and ideas for integrating ecological principles into landscape design. \nAdvocacy & Activism\nThis track will explore how to advocate for environmental and ecological causes and demonstrate how individuals and organizations are making a positive impact in their communities. Join us to learn about people who are actively working in or passionate about creating social\, environmental\, or policy change. \nManaging Evolving Landscapes\nThis track is dedicated to the practical aspects of implementing and maintaining ecological landscapes. These sessions provide tangible takeaways\, covering regenerative practices\, plant propagation\, creating and managing meadows\, and managing invasive species. Sessions will also focus on effective land management and maintenance\, including tools and best practices. \nEcological Business Practices\nJoin us for sessions on ecological business practices\, which offer actionable insights into building and running ecological businesses. \nRegistration Information & Ticket Options \nWe welcome ELA Members to take advantage of Members Only Pricing\, 30% off non-member pricing. Please consider joining or renewing today to take advantage of this and other member benefits. \nOnly Members receive the additional benefit of access to the recordings of the 2026 Annual Conference presentations. Recordings will not be sent to non-members even if you have a virtual registration\, but you will\, of course\, have access to the live presentations.  Please note that this is a change from previous conferences. \nTicket prices include breakfast and lunch for the days you are registered. Note that AOLCPs who are not already ELA members will receive a 15% discount on their ticket price. The discount code is available in the AOLCP Portal. If you have problems accessing the portal\, please email us. \n\n1-Day | Member In-Person Ticket: $225\n2-Day | Member In-Person Ticket: $400\n1-Day | Non-Member In-Person Ticket: $290\n2-Day | Non-Member In-Person Ticket: $520\n1-Day | Member Virtual Ticket: $135\n2-Day | Member Virtual Ticket: $240\n1-Day | Non-Member Virtual Ticket: $175\n2-Day | Non-Member Virtual Ticket: $315​\n\nVenue & Hotel Information​\nWe are pleased to be hosting this year’s conference at the beautiful Omni Providence Hotel in Providence\, RI! \nTo make your stay as convenient and affordable as possible\, the ELA has secured a special block of discounted rooms just for our attendees. \n\nHow to Book: Simply click here to reserve your room at this exclusive rate.\nA Quick Note: Conference tickets do not include your hotel reservation\, so please be sure to book your accommodation separately.\nDon’t Miss Out! Space is limited and the discounted rate expires on January 5th. We encourage you to book your room soon to secure these savings!\n\nLearn more and register on ELA’s website.
URL:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/event/2026-ela-annual-conference-eco-marketplace/
LOCATION:OMNI Providence\, 1 West Exchange St.\, Providence\, RI\, 02903\, United States
CATEGORIES:conferences,Continuing Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nofa.organiclandcare.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/ELA-2026-conference-v2.png
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