Join Orleans County Conservation District at Allstad Farm in Hardwick for a practical workshop on managing wet areas, improving hay land productivity, and understanding tile drainage. Hear from Chad Allaire, the farmer behind Allstad, and technical experts. You'll learn about best management practices, installation considerations, and state and federal regulations. Farmers and landowners are welcome. Light lunch provided. Registration required.

You'll Learn About

• Managing wet areas to improve productivity
• When tile drainage makes sense and when it may not
• Best management practices that protect water quality
• Improving soil health and hay production
• Lessons learned from real drainage projects
• Installation considerations and costs
• State and federal regulations surrounding tile drainage

• Protecting drainage outlets and reducing erosion risks

   

Farm Tour & Presentations

The day includes a guided tour of Allstad Farm, including an existing NRCS conservation project, followed by presentations from farmers and technical experts covering research, installation, and regulatory considerations.

Presenters

Chad Allaire
Grass & Beef Farmer and Host

Joshua Faulkner
Research Associate Professor and Faculty Fellow
UVM Extension Center for Sustainable Agriculture

Chad Machia
Machia & Sons Drainage, LLC

Jim Eikenberry
NRCS Wetlands Specialist

Who Should Attend?

This workshop is designed primarily for farmers but will also be valuable for woodland owners, agricultural landowners, and anyone interested in improving land productivity while protecting natural resources.

Whether you're considering installing tile drainage, managing recurring wet spots, or simply looking for practical approaches to improving your hay land, you'll leave with actionable information and opportunities to ask questions directly to experienced practitioners.

Registration is required. Lunch will be provided. 

Ready to improve your land's productivity? Register today to reserve your spot at this free field day.