Upcoming Events
High Tunnel Energy Efficiency
Webinar
When: December 14, 12:30-1:30PM
Where: Zoom
Cost: Free, Registration Required
This webinar will focus on energy use and conservation in high tunnel and greenhouse production. Energy costs can be substantial in a smaller diversified production system and reducing electric bills can help the bottom line.
We'll understand energy costs and how to approach an energy assessment of your farm. We’ll then talk about energy efficient designs and materials for new structures and energy retrofits for existing structures.
About the presenter: Chris Lent is an Agricultural Specialist working out of Pennsylvania for the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) as part of the Northeast regional team. He operated an organic vegetable farm for ten years and worked in the fields of energy efficiency, solar installation, and organic farm inspection. His work at NCAT has focused on farm energy, organic vegetable production, local food systems, high tunnel management, and urban agriculture.
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For questions or assistance in registration, contact matt@cheshireconservation.org or (603)756-9282.
2024 Grant Information Sessions
Monadnock Food Co-op Farm Fund Info Session
When: December 5, 6:00PM
Where: Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81565190972)
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Designed for farmers, this grant aims to bolster efforts to expand sustainable food production for wholesale markets. Funds cover equipment, packaging, technical assistance & more
More grant info here!
Conservation Opportunity Fund Info Session
When: December 6, 6:00PM
Where: Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82690912082)
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Designed for small landowners <20ac, this grant funds projects to create and improve wildlife habitat across our region. This includes pollinator meadows, aquatic improvements & more
More grant info here!
NH Conservation Districts Climate Resilience Grant Info Session
When: December 7, 6:00PM
Where: Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81227178491)
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Designed for farmers, this statewide grant awards up to $10k for projects that improve farm resilience to climate change or reduce their agricultural impacts on our climate.
More grant info here!
Birding on the Farm Workshop
Series
When: January 27, 2024, 9:00AM-11:00AM
Where: TBD
Cost: Free
Join us for an exciting opportunity to bird on farms throughout our region! Learn new skills, and learn about wildlife conservation on the farm!
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Participants will learn about farm habitat dynamics for birds, habitat management, wildlife conservation on the farm, as well as species identification from experienced bird guides.
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This workshop series is open to birders and enthusiasts of all skill levels!
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Participants should bring binoculars with them (extras may be available), and weather appropriate attire.
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Walking will include slow-paced off-path walks over relatively flat terrain, with stops for discussion and observation!
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For questions or assistance in registration, contact matt@cheshireconservation.org or (603)756-9282.
On-Farm Solar Webinar
When: January 23, 2024, 12:30-1:30PM
Where: Zoom
Cost: Free, Registration Required
Are you interested in learning more about solar options for your farm? As solar panel costs have lowered, and incentives have increased, more farms are turning to solar to offset electricity costs.
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Join this webinar to learn about site assessment, compare ground mounted and roof mounted systems, and incentives and funding available for solar projects. We will touch on leasing land for larger solar development. and introduce resources available through The Agrisolar Clearinghouse, a program run by the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT).
About the presenter: Chris Lent is an Agricultural Specialist working out of Pennsylvania for the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) as part of the Northeast regional team. He operated an organic vegetable farm for ten years and worked in the fields of energy efficiency, solar installation, and organic farm inspection. His work at NCAT has focused on farm energy, organic vegetable production, local food systems, high tunnel management, and urban agriculture.
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For questions or assistance in registration, contact matt@cheshireconservation.org or (603)756-9282.
Board Meetings
The fourth Thursday of every month, the board of the Cheshire County Conservation District meets to discuss the District’s strategic plan and annual plan of work. Minutes are available by appointment; please call 603.756.2988 ext.4 or email info@cheshireconservation.org with a request. To attend in person please call 603.756.2988 x3011 or email info@cheshireconservation.org with any questions or to request additional information!**