Forest Farming at the Yew

Fifty-six people from across nine states came together at the Yew Mountain Center May 22 for the first West Virginia Forest Farming Field Day.

Participants were guided through several stations where they learned about selecting appropriate sites for forest farming, propagating native botanicals, using a variety of tree saps to make syrup and cultivating mushrooms. An introduction to making value-added products from forest-grown crops was also a part of the program.

Participating partners included: Appalachian Beginning Forest Farmers Coalition, Rural Action, Appalachian Sustainable Development, Shady Grove Botanicals, Natural Capital Investment Fund, Sprouting Farms, and Future Generations University. 

This event was sponsored by the Sacharuna Foundation, the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, and the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. Photos courtesy of Erica Marks