Living Soil, Vibrant Crops: Using Compost & Compost-Derived Amendments [CRAFT]

When Barb and Mike Dietrich started Oley Valley Organics 11 years ago, their land, according to Barb, was “basically just dirt, not a living soil.

There were no earthworms to be found.” However, after just a couple of years of adding organic matter and farming organically, the earthworms came back.

At this workshop, you’ll learn how Barb and Mike have improved their soil’s health using compost and compost-derived amendments—such as compost teas and extracts. You’ll also learn how improving soil health fosters a balanced soil ecosystem, where natural predators can effectively fight farm pests.

Today, Oley Valley Organics is a certified-organic, 13-acre farm specializing in asparagus, strawberries, garlic, and some seasonal vegetables. Last year, Barb and Mike also opened a year-round local and organic natural food store near their farm. Now, beyond promoting their own operation, they also support over sixty other local farmers and producers with their store.

Speaker information

Prior to co-founding Oley Valley Organics, Barb Dietrich studied under a soil microbiologist and volunteered at the Rodale Institute, where she learned how to compost, make teas and extracts, and use the microscope to determine the soil microbiology.

Additional information

This is a CRAFT event. CRAFT (Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training) events are designed for aspiring and beginning farmers, but can nonetheless provide valuable opportunities for experienced farmers to glean insights from their peers.

Questions?

Take a look at our frequently asked questions about our workshops and events. Otherwise, please contact this event’s coordinator, Aaron de Long, by email at aaron@pasafarming.org or by phone at (814) 349-9856 x25.

Event partner