The biodynamic preparations harness life-regulating processes and are subtle catalysts to help create conditions for healthy growth. Mac Mead and Megan Durney lead us in making several of the biodynamic compost preparations and discuss their healing effects on soil and plants

We will gather to plant next year’s garlic crop and sing our way through the work. All songs will be easy to follow. Every voice is welcome!

On a biodynamic farm, we strive to meet the farm’s needs from within. This workshop includes hands-on composting, seed saving, and soil-building, with Mac Mead linking soil and spiritual science, and Megan Durney teaching essential seed-saving skills

The ideal biodynamic farm is a self contained individuality in which the animals play a major role. Mac Mead and Megan Durney share about the essential nature of the animal and Kim Vaughan covers the basics of biodynamic dairy herd management, including the life rhythms of a dairy cow and the role healthy soil plays in animal and pasture health. The day includes a visit to our herd, cow barn, and dairy, the only one in Rockland County

The opening lecture of this year’s Midwinter Agriculture Intensive will explore the seven types of wood used in the seven pairs of columns of the first Goetheanum, their relationship to the seven planets, and their influences on the kingdoms of nature.

In the heart of the winter each year we pick a poignant theme from Rudolf Steiner’s lectures on agriculture and celebrate it with artistic activities, presentations, small and large group discussions, and festive meals! More details about this year’s event are forthcoming. 

Hugh Williams and Hanna Bail, owners and operators of Threshold Farm, will share their perspective on unfolding the living being of their particular farm individuality. Also covered: the science and art of pruning fruit trees, including a few hours of hands-on learning, pruning our own orchard under Hugh and Hanna’s expert guidance

Using barrel compost, a biodynamic compound preparation, is an efficient way to boost soil fertility. Mac Mead leads the class through every step of making this valuable substance, and how to use it. Mac also covers weed, pest, and fungus control, using biodynamic preparations and peppers. Seeding methods and supportive cultural practices in the greenhouse will be covered as well as detailed planning of the gardening year.