On Monday, November 14th, the Catskills CRAFT (Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training) group visited Apple Pond Farm in Callicoon, NY for their annual meeting and 2012 planning session. Approximately 25 participants shared their impressions of the 2011 schedule and discussion led to 2012 training and other group member needs that CRAFT could help organize. 

Planning for 2012 will continue with social and networking events through the winter months. The 2012 Catskills CRAFT program will encompass three areas of activity that can be spearheaded by group members:  1.) on-farm training, 2.) work parties, and 3.) social events. 

Farm visits will demonstrate a specific skill that the group seeks training in. These will be enhanced by a separate track of work parties in which member farmers seek assistance with a specific farm task. This track may utilize a new Time Banking system being launched by one of the member farmers in Delaware county. And finally, the group will hold at least two social events during the next season that focus on community building and engaging beginning and established farmers alike. 

Hosts, Sonja Hedlund and Dick Riseling, coordinated a beautiful and abundant potluck for the group to share in. For over 25 years, Sonja and Dick have been farming their 80 acres. Chicken, goats and sheep are raised for eggs, meat and fiber. In 2003, the farm expanded into renewable energy with a wind turbine, solar hot water system and solar panels. The farm now produces 85% of its electricity each year. They host farm vacations and educational programs. 

For more information about Apple Pond Farm, visit www.applepondfarm.com.

Catskills CRAFT farm visits and events are scheduled June through November. As 2012 planning continues, additional events will be added. Visit www.catskillscraft.org for a full schedule and email info@catskillscraft.org to be added to our group distribution.