FARMING WITH DRAFT ANIMALS WORKSHOP

 

Join us for an on-farm, experiential workshop on plowing techniques using draft horses.

When: Sunday, June 16, 2013, 1pm–5pm.
Where: Belfair, WA
Cost: $30/person and pre-registration required: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/399458

 

 There is a rich history of using draft animals in farming, logging, and transportation in Western Washington. Mechanized approaches to farming have mostly replaced the use of draft animals, but the time-tested method is making a come-back with the realization that heavy farm work can be accomplished in an energy and land-use efficient manner using animal power. This workshop is an opportunity to learn from and network with some of our region's most influential and skilled teamsters.

The workshop is intended for the small-scale farmer who is looking to incorporate draft animal power into their farm. Workshop topics will include:
- Introduction to horse powered operations: draft horse farm ecology, economics, and general care
- Cultivation basics: equipment for field cultivation, hitching and horse training, as well as safety
- Soil management basics: soil types, land impacts of various types of equipment, and soil fertility management

- A live demonstration of horse powered farm cultivation by experienced teamsters.

Presented by the Small Farms program of WSU Extension/Mason Conservation District and Pacific Salmon Center's Farm at Waters' Edge. For more info contact Lucas Patzek at: lpatzek@wsu.edu, 360-867-2151.