WELCOME Dear Friends, On behalf of the Biodynamic Association’s board and staff I am thrilled to welcome you to our 2014 North American Conference: FARMING FOR HEALTH. We hope you enjoy the food, the music, the dancing, the talks, the workshops, the exhibitors, and the connections to new friends and old! I would like to thank the many sponsors, exhibitors, presenters, scholarship fund donors, and volunteers who made this event possible. I hold out to each of you our intention that this event bring you the insights, experiences, and community you need to take your next steps in seeking health for the earth, for your community, and for your self. That is why we have created this remarkable space for learning, growth, and celebration. To prepare for this event, I encourage you to take a few moments of reflection on the questions: What is my intention for being here? Who do I bring with me in my heart—friends, family members, departed mentors? These reflections will help you find your way to the people you need to meet and the ideas you need to encounter and engage. This event brings together an amazing array of people in the biodynamic movement and other allied movements to share their wisdom—more than 90 different presenters participating in more than 60 workshops! Drink deeply from this wellspring of wisdom, and remember that we are each here as both teacher and student, so take courage and weave your own red thread of wisdom into the larger tapestry of this event. I also encourage you to step back occasionally and listen deeply, find a quiet place within, and feel the spirit pulsing through the whole community. Only thus can a true community form. As Rudolf Steiner said: The healthy social life is found When in the mirror of each human soul the whole community finds its reflection and when in the community the virtue of each one is living Blessings on our conference!
Robert Karp, Executive Director
Contents Schedule 2 Map 5 Keynote Speakers
6
Workshops At a Glance Tracks Descriptions
8 9 12
Special Events
26
Learning Community Meetups
28
Artistic Activities
30
Presenters
31
Exhibitors
34
Meals Conference Menu Food & Beverage Donors Local Food Tasting
36 36 37 38
Practical Information Children at the Conference Audio and Video Recordings Internet, Message Board, and Free Literature Quiet Reflection Bookstore and Author Signings Evaluations
40
The Biodynamic Association
42
Biodynamic Scholarship Fund Donors
43
Sponsors
44
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SCHEDULE Thursday, November 13 7:30 am - 6:30 pm Registration open Prefunction 8:00 am - 8:45 am Eurythmy Keeneland 8:30 am - 7:00 pm Childcare open Kids Suite 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Full-Day Pre-Conference Workshops Merging Modern Methods and Old-Time Wisdom Conference Theater The Spiritual Foundations for Biodynamics Gulfstream/Hialeah 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Morning Pre-Conference Workshops Biodynamic Bootcamp for Gardeners Oaks Fermenting: Enhancing Human and Soil Health Seneca/Iroquois Holistic Planned Grazing Shawnee/Cherokee Working with a Goethean Approach in Biodynamic Education Downs/Churchill 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Lunch Ballroom 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm Bookstore open Prefunction 12:30 pm - 5:30 pm Pre-Conference On-Farm Workshops Buses/vans depart from motor lobby entrance Hands-On with the Biodynamic Preparations Foxhollow Farm Transforming a Conventional Hog Farm through Biodynamics Lyvers Farm 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Afternoon Pre-Conference Workshops Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Oaks Forming and Dissolving: A Workshop for Educators Derby Health Strategies for Organic Livestock Shawnee/Cherokee Origins, Development, and Modern Trends in Biodynamic Agriculture Seneca/Iroquois Permaculture in Practice at Salamander Springs Farm Downs/Churchill 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Opening Celebration and Local Food Tasting Ballroom
Friday, November 14 7:30 am - 6:30 pm Registration open Prefunction 7:30 am - 8:15 am Eurythmy Keeneland 7:30 am - 8:15 am Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Impulse in North America Gulfstream/Hialeah 8:30 am - 7:00 pm Childcare open Kids Suite 8:30 am - 9:30 am Welcome and Opening Remarks Ballroom 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Bookstore open Prefunction 9:30 am - 10:30 am Keynote: Human Health from the Ground Up, Daphne Miller, MD Ballroom 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Exhibits Atrium 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Workshop Session 1 Alchemical Principles of the Biodynamic Preparations Conference Theater Biodynamic Winegrowing Pimlico A Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy Pimlico C Our Agrarian Future: A Conversation with Mary Berry Gulfstream/Hialeah Pfeiffer Soil Testing Revisited Seneca/Iroquois Plain Speaking the Language of Biodynamics Oaks Securing Capital from Social Investors Downs
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SCHEDULE The Synergy of Livestock on Farms, Orchards and Vineyards Pimlico B Understanding and Using the Nine Biodynamic Preparations Derby Understanding Health and Disease in Soil and Plants Churchill A Way of Knowing as a Way of Healing Shawnee/Cherokee Who Are the Animals Really? Belmont Why I Farm Biodynamically Aqueduct 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm Lunch Ballroom 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Workshop Session 2 Biodynamic Beekeeping Seneca/Iroquois Compost Quality, Innovations, and Biodynamic Influences Churchill Creating Fair Farms Oaks Gardening with the Four Elements Conference Theater The Individuality of the Farm and the Human Being Gulfstream/Hialeah Innovative Farm Succession and Land Ownership Strategies Downs Integrating the Biodynamic Preparations on a Large Farm Pimlico B Questions and Conversation on Themes from the Conference Aqueduct Sensitizing Minerals, Plants, and Animals for Human Nutrition Pimlico A The Source of Healing in Plants, The Source of Healing in Gardens Shawnee/Cherokee Staying with It: The Rhythms of Animals, Ecology, and Economics Belmont Weeds, What They Tell, and How to Ferment Them for Fertilizers Derby A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives Pimlico C 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Deepening the Theme Through Conversation and Sensory Exercises Ballroom 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Dinner Ballroom 7:30 pm - 8:00 pm North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program Graduation Ballroom 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm Keynote: Making the Soil, Food, Health Connection, Patrick Holden Ballroom 9:30 pm - 11:00 pm Young Farmer Social Bluegrass Brewing Co.
Saturday, November 15 7:30 am - 8:15 am Eurythmy Keeneland 7:30 am - 8:15 am Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Impulse in North America Gulfstream/Hialeah 8:30 am - 4:00 pm Registration open Prefunction 8:30 am - 10:30 am Keynote: Biodynamics and Health, Panel Ballroom 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Bookstore open Prefunction 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Exhibits Atrium 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Workshop Session 3 Biodynamic Solutions to Pest Problems Conference Theater The Biodynamics of Health: The New Ecology Seneca/Iroquois Building Biodynamic Soil Shawnee/Cherokee Composting as a Free Deed: Being and Becoming Belmont CowSignals and Subtle Signs of Animal Health Pimlico C The Economics of Sacred Agriculture Derby The Emerging Biodynamic Marketplace Pimlico B Geomancy and the Health of the Biodynamic Organism Aqueduct Questions and Conversation on Themes from the Conference Pimlico A
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SCHEDULE Rudolf Steiner, Wendell Berry, and the Resettling of America Downs Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA Churchill Terrestrial and Cosmic Nutrition: Why Biodynamics Is a Great Help Gulfstream/Hialeah Urban Biodynamic Farming for Healthy Food and Communities Oaks 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm Lunch Ballroom 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Workshop Session 4 Biodynamic Education and the Tria Principia Aqueduct Farming with Empathy Oaks Farming with the Demeter Biodynamic Standard Derby Integrating Vegetable Seed Saving in your CSA or Market Garden Pimlico B Making the Soil, Food, Health Connection Conference Theater The Medicinal Qualities and Healing Gifts of the Preparations Seneca/Iroquois No-Till Permaculture Systems for Staple Crop Production Churchill Soil Health and Human Fertility Pimlico C Understanding the Nature of the Vortex Gulfstream/Hialeah Vines and Ovines Belmont Working with Cosmic Rhythms and Planting Calendars Shawnee/Cherokee Young Biodynamic Farmers Downs 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Artistic Activities and Learning Community Meetups See pages 28-30 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Dinner Ballroom 7:30 pm - 8:00 pm Honoring Hugh Courtney Ballroom 8:00 pm - 8:30 pm Violin and Eurythmy Performance Ballroom 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm Square Dance Ballroom 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm Film Screening: One Man, One Cow, One Planet Conference Theater 8:30 pm - 10:00 pm Film Screening: Coming to Ground Derby
Sunday, November 16 7:30 am - 8:15 am Eurythmy Keeneland 7:30 am - 8:15 am Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Impulse in North America Gulfstream/Hialeah 8:00 am - 11:30 am Bookstore open Prefunction 8:30 am - 9:30 am Registration open Prefunction 8:30 am - 11:30 am Childcare open Kids Suite 8:30 am - 9:15 am The Future of Biodynamics and the BDA Ballroom 9:15 am - 10:00 am Closing Plenary Ballroom 10:00 am - 11:00 Closing Ceremony Ballroom 11:00 am - 11:30 am Meet bus and carpools to Foxhollow and Long Hungry Creek Farms Motor Lobby Entrance 11:30 am Bus and carpools depart to farms 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm Field Day at Foxhollow Farm Foxhollow Farm 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm Field Day at Long Hungry Creek Farm Long Hungry Creek Farm 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Bus from Foxhollow Farm to Hyatt
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FLOOR PLAN Second Floor
MAP Second Floor TO CONVENTION CENTER
TO PARKING FREIGHT ELEVATOR
WOMEN
KEENELAND
MEN
WOMEN
HIALEAH
HYATT REGENCY LOUISVILLE 311 South FourthOAKLAWN Street Louisville, KY 40202 USA
PREFUNCTION ROOM
T +1 502 581 1234 GULFSTREAM F +1 502 581 0133 louisville.hyatt.com
REGENCY NORTH
ELEVATORS
ATRIUM
ESCALATORS
PREFUNCTION ROOM
REGENCY BALLROOM MEN
SENECA
FLOOR PLAN First Floor PARK
COAT CHECK PREFUNCTION ROOM
IROQUOIS
SUITE
DERBY REGENCY SOUTH
SHAWNEE CHEROKEE
OAKS
CONFERENCE THEATER
KENTUCKY SUITE
CHURCHILL DOWNS SUITE
BOARDROOM
DOWNS
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B
CHURCHILL
TO FOURTH STREET LIVE!
First Floor TO FOURTH STREET LIVE! HOTEL ENTRANCE
SALES AND CATERING OFFICE LOBBY
SARATOGA
MOTOR LOBBY ENTRANCE
GIFT SHOP WOMEN MEN
BELMONT
AQUEDUCT
PREFUNCTION HYATT STAYFIT速
PIMLICO C
PIMLICO B
PIMLICO A
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KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Daphne Miller, M.D. — Human Health from the Ground Up Friday, November 14, 9:30 - 10:30 am
Dr. Daphne Miller is a family physician, writer, and Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of California San Francisco. In 2000 she founded WholefamilyMD, San Francisco’s first integrative primary care practice, where she still cares for patients across the lifespan. Part clinician, part ecologist, and part anthropologist, Miller approaches medicine with the idea that opportunities for health and healing are found not only in the medical system but in such unexpected places as home kitchens, school gardens, community organizations, spiritual centers, farms, and nature trails. Throughout her career, her teaching, writing, and advocacy work have reflected this perspective. In her latest book, Farmacology: What Innovative Family Farming Can Teach Us About Health and Healing (William Morrow, 2013), Miller discovers how learning from sustainable farmers can make her a better doctor. Her first book, The Jungle Effect (HarperCollins 2008), a Northern California Bestseller, chronicles her voyages to areas around the world that are still relatively free of modern chronic diseases. Miller is a nationally recognized leader in the Healthy Parks, Healthy People initiative, an effort spearheaded by the National Parks Service to build linkages between our medical system and our park system in order to reintegrate human, environmental, and ecological health. Her 2009 Washington Post article “Take a Hike and Call Me in the Morning” is widely credited with sparking “nature prescriptions,” a concept that is rapidly gaining traction across the United States.
Patrick Holden — Making the Soil, Food, Health Connection Friday, November 14, 8:00 - 9:30 pm
Patrick Holden grew up in London but was deeply influenced by a year he spent in California at the beginning of the 1970s. He returned to the UK to study biodynamic agriculture and started a community dairy farm in West Wales in 1973. It is now the longest-established organic dairy farm in Wales, with a herd of 75 Ayrshire cows—the milk from which is made into an award-winning cheddar-style cheese by his son, Sam. Patrick is the founding director of the Sustainable Food Trust, whose mission is to promote international cooperation between all those involved in sustainable food production—not just those who are certified organic. Between 1995 and 2010, he was the director of the Soil Association and became a much sought-after speaker and campaigner for organic food and farming. He spearheaded a number of prominent food campaigns around BSE, pesticide residues, and GM food. More recently, he was a member of the UK government’s working group on the Foresight Report into Future of Food and Farming and received a CBE for services to organic farming in 2005. His other current positions include patron of the Biodynamic Association in the UK; Living Earth and the Soil Association Land Trusts; Senior Environmental Advisor to JCB; and International Ambassador of the Soil Association.
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KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Jean-Paul Courtens, Laura Riccardi Lyvers, Steven Johnson, DO, and Lavinia McKinney — Biodynamics and Health Saturday, November 15, 8:30 - 10:30 am
Jean-Paul Courtens and his wife Jody Bolluyt own and operate Roxbury Farm, which was founded in 1990. Today, Roxbury Farm is a 375-acre diversified operation in Kinderhook, New York, producing vegetables, hay, beef, lamb, chicken, and pork. Since 1991 the farm has been a CSA and has grown to serve over 1,400 families spread out between New York City, Westchester County, Columbia County, and the Capital District. Jean-Paul is considered a pioneer leader in the CSA and organic movement. In 1994, he co-founded CRAFT (Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farm Training) to improve the experience of farm apprentices. In 2000, in association with Equity Trust, he and Jody helped develop a model ground lease that protects the Roxbury farmland through a combination of a conservation easement and a re-sale restriction to ensure that the farm will always be in the hands of small farmers. Laura Riccardi Lyvers has run the biodynamic program for Foxhollow Farm since 2007. She makes the preparations with help from Foxhollow folks, local gardeners, and farmers and applies biodynamic field sprays on the 700 acres of pasture and hayfields. Laura is owner of Biodynamic Agricultural Resources. She lives with her husband Philip at Lyvers Farm, where her favorite pastimes are tending the home dairy herd and playing in her herb gardens. Dr. Steven Johnson is the director of the Evergreen Medical Centre in Jeffersonville, Indiana, and specializes in integrative, anthroposophic, and internal medicine. He has many years of experience and interest in biodynamics and has interest in bridging PAAM (Physician’s Association for Anthroposophic Medicine) and AAMTA (Association for Anthroposophic Medicine and Therapies in America) with the Biodynamic Association. He is an internationally respected lecturer, teacher, and physician. Dr. Johnson has completed the American Holistic Association’s criteria for board certification and the American Osteopathic Associations’ prolotherapy certification. Dr. Johnson brings special expertise to his conventional internal medicine practice by integrating through the application of alternative medicine. Lavinia McKinney has been farming in the Missouri Ozarks for 40 years. She helped write the organic standards for the first Missouri organic growers in the 1970s. Elixir Farm has been certified organic since 1976 and became certified Biodynamic by Demeter 20 years ago. Lavinia has been a practicing acupuncturist for 25 years and had a medicinal plant seed company for 15 years. She currently farms with Daniel Roth, and together they produce certified organic beef and produce for the farmers market in St. Louis, Missouri.
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Conference Theater
Gulfstream/ Hialeah
The Source of Healing in Plants, The Source of Healing in Gardens
Biodynamic Beekeeping
Gardening with the Four Elements Tal Simchoni
The Individuality of the Farm and the Human Being Leah Walker
Shawnee/ Cherokee
Seneca/ Iroquois
Conference Theater
Patrick Holden
Making the Soil, Food, Health Connec2on
Understanding the Nature of the Vortex Jennifer Greene
Conference Theater
Gulfstream/ Hialeah
Biodynamic Terrestrial and Cosmic Nutri2on Solu2ons to Pest Problems Gunther Hauk Hugh Courtney
Mary Berry
Deb Soule
The Medicinal Quali2es and Healing Gi]s of the Biodynamic Prepara2ons
Seneca/ Iroquois
Steven Johnson, DO
The Biodynamics of Health: The New Ecology
Seneca/ Iroquois
Gunther Hauk
Oaks
Harald Hoven & Sherry Wildfeuer
Working with Cosmic Rhythms and Plan2ng Calendars
Shawnee/ Cherokee
Jeff Poppen
Building Biodynamic Soil
Shawnee/ Cherokee
Deb Soule & Jean David Derreumaux
Lloyd Nelson & Hugh Courtney
Securing Capital from Social Investors Tera Johnson, Woody Tasch, Don Shaffer & John Steven Bianucci
Downs
Walter Goldstein
Understanding Health and Disease in Soil and Plants: A Biodynamic Approach
Churchill
Shabari Bird
Weeds, What They Tell, and How to Ferment Them For Fer2lizers
Derby
Compost Quality, Innova2ons, and Biodynamic Influences
Churchill
John Bloom, Tom Spaulding & Jean-‐ Steve Diver Paul Courtens
Innova2ve Farm Succession and Land Ownership Strategies
Downs
Bill Keener
Staying with It: The Rhythms of Animals, Ecology, and Economics at Sequatchie Cove Farm
Belmont
Henning Sehmsdorf
The Economics of Sacred Agriculture
Derby
Churchill
Star2ng, Growing & Maintaining a CSA: Lessons from the Founding Steffen Schneider Genera2on & Rachel Schneider John Peterson, Jean-‐Paul Courtens, Elizabeth Henderson & Janet Gamble
Rudolf Steiner, Wendell Berry, and the ReseUling of America
Downs
Farming with Empathy
Oaks
Jim Fullmer
Farming with the Demeter Biodynamic Standard
Derby
Young Biodynamic Farmers John Peterson, Sara PaUerson, Monique Blais, Eric Woodridge & Andrew Stewart
Downs
No-‐Till Permaculture Systems for Staple Crop Produc2on Susana Lein
Churchill
Aqueduct
Mark Trela
Vines and Ovines Biodynamic Educa2on and Jaime Irwin the Tria Principia Jonathan Code
Belmont
Aqueduct
Compos2ng as a Geomancy and Free Deed: Being the Health of the Biodynamic and Becoming Organism Bruno Follador Karen Davis-‐ Brown
Belmont
Session 4: Saturday, November 15, 2 PM -‐ 3:30 PM
Urban Biodynamic Farming for Healthy Food and Thriving Communi2es Daron Joffe
Oaks
Ques2ons and Conversa2on on Themes from the Conference
Aqueduct
Mac Mead, Lincoln Geiger & Janet Gamble
Steffen Schneider
Why I Farm Biodynamically
Aqueduct
Who Are the Animals Really?
Belmont
Session 3: Saturday, November 15, 11 AM -‐ 12:30 PM
Crea2ng Fair Farms Elizabeth Henderson
Oaks
Jean-‐Paul Courtens
Understanding and Using the 9 Biodynamic Prepara2ons
Derby
Session 2: Friday, November 14, 2 PM -‐ 3:30 PM
Plain Speaking A Way of the Language Knowing as a Way of Healing of Biodynamics Craig Holdrege Cynthia Hoven
Gulfstream/ Hialeah
Pfeiffer Soil Tes2ng Revisited Hugh Lovel
Alchemical Principles of the Biodynamic Prepara2ons Dennis Klocek
Shawnee/ Cherokee
Our Agrarian Future: A Conversa2on with Mary Berry
Seneca/ Iroquois
Conference Theater
Gulfstream/ Hialeah
Session 1: Friday, November 14, 11 AM -‐ 12:30 PM
2014 Biodynamic Conference: Workshops at a Glance
Dawn Combs
Paul Entwistle and Cory Eichman
Integra2ng Vegetable Seed Saving in your CSA or Market Garden
Soil Health and Human Fer2lity
Elizabeth Candelario
The Emerging Biodynamic Marketplace
Pimlico B
Integra2ng the Prepara2ons on a Large Farm Ulrich Hack
Pimlico B
Kelly Mulville
Pimlico B
Hubert Karreman, VMD
The Synergy of Livestock on Farms, Orchards, and Vineyards
Pimlico B
Pimlico C
CowSignals and Subtle Signs of Animal Health
Pimlico C
A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives Coree Entwistle, Cher Smith & Robin Verson
Pimlico C
Farm-‐Based Educa2on Inspired by Anthroposophy Dana Burns, Bente Goldstein, Nicki Robb, MaU Davis & Traci Par2n
Pimlico C
Ques2ons and Conversa2on on Themes from the Conference
Pimlico A
Pimlico A
Philip Lyvers
Mark Trela
Sensi2zing Minerals, Plants, and Animals for Human Nutri2on
Pimlico A
Biodynamic Winegrowing Joseph Brinkley, Ned Horton, Ann Sperling, Sarah Black & Will Stapp
Pimlico A
WORKSHOPS BY TRACK Biodynamic Basics
Biodynamic Boot Camp for Gardeners (p. 12) Merging Modern Methods and Old-Time Wisdom for Farming and Gardening (p. 12) The Spiritual Foundation for Biodynamics (p. 12) Hands-On with the Biodynamic Preparations (p. 14) Origins, Development, and Modern Trends in Biodynamic Agriculture (p. 15) Plain Speaking the Language of Biodynamics (p. 16) Understanding and Using the Nine Biodynamic Preparations (p. 16) Why I Farm Biodynamically (p. 17) Gardening with the Four Elements (p. 19) Building Biodynamic Soil (p. 20) Composting as a Free Deed: Being and Becoming (p. 21) Urban Biodynamic Farming for Healthy Food and Thriving Communities (p. 22) Farming with Empathy (p. 22) Working with Cosmic Rhythms and Planting Calendars (p. 24)
Advanced Biodynamics
Transforming a Conventional Hog Farm Through Biodynamics (p. 14) Alchemical Principles of the Biodynamic Preparations (p. 15) Sensitizing Minerals, Plants, and Animals for Human Nutrition (p. 19) Geomancy and the Health of the Biodynamic Organism (p. 21) Terrestrial and Cosmic Nutrition (p. 22) Biodynamic Education and the Tria Principia (p. 22)
Animals
Holistic Planned Grazing: Principles, Practice and Design (p. 12) Health Strategies for Organic Livestock (p. 14) Transforming a Conventional Hog Farm Through Biodynamics (p. 14) The Synergy of Livestock on Farms, Orchards and Vineyards (p. 16) Who Are the Animals Really? (p. 17) Biodynamic Beekeeping (p. 17) Staying with It: The Rhythms of Animals, Ecology, and Economics at Sequatchie Cove Farm (p. 20) CowSignals and Subtle Signs of Animal Health (p. 21) Vines and Ovines (p. 24) Field Day at Foxhollow Farm
Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 1 Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 3 Session 3 Session 4 Session 4
Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 3 Session 4
Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 1 Session 2 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Post-Conference
Biodynamic Preparations
Hands-On with the Biodynamic Preparations (p. 14) Alchemical Principles of the Biodynamic Preparations (p. 15) Understanding and Using the Nine Biodynamic Preparations (p. 16) Integrating the Biodynamic Preparations on a Large Farm (p. 19) Biodynamic Solutions to Pest Problems (p. 20)
Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 1 Session 2 Session 3
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WORKSHOPS BY TRACK The Medicinal Qualities and Healing Gifts of the Biodynamic Preparations (p. 24) Understanding the Nature of the Vortex (p. 24)
Biodynamic Research
Understanding Health and Disease in Soil and Plants: A Biodynamic Approach (p. 17) Compost Quality, Innovations, and Biodynamic Influences (p. 17)
Biodynamics in the Marketplace
The Emerging Biodynamic Marketplace (p. 21) Farming with the Demeter Biodynamic Standard (p. 22)
Educators
Working with a Goethean Approach in Biodynamic Education and Mentorship (p. 12) Forming and Dissolving: A Workshop for Educators (p. 14) Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy (p. 15) The Individuality of the Farm and the Human Being (p. 19) Biodynamic Education and the Tria Principia (p. 22)
Gardening
Biodynamic Boot Camp for Gardeners (p. 12) Permaculture in Practice at Salamander Springs Farm (p. 15) Gardening with the Four Elements (p. 19) The Source of Healing in Plants, The Source of Healing in Gardens (p. 20) Weeds, What They Tell, and How to Ferment Them for Fertilizers (p. 20) Urban Biodynamic Farming for Healthy Food and Thriving Communities (p. 22) Integrating Vegetable Seed Saving in your CSA or Market Garden (p. 22) Working with Cosmic Rhythms and Planting Calendars (p. 24)
Health
Fermenting: Enhancing Human and Soil Health (p. 12) Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine (p. 12) Health Strategies for Organic Livestock (p. 14) Understanding Health and Disease in Soil and Plants: A Biodynamic Approach (p. 17) A Way of Knowing as a Way of Healing (p. 17) Sensitizing Minerals, Plants, and Animals for Human Nutrition (p. 19) The Source of Healing in Plants, The Source of Healing in Gardens (p. 20) The Biodynamics of Health: The New Ecology (p. 20) Terrestrial and Cosmic Nutrition (p. 22) Making the Soil, Food, Health Connection (p. 24) The Medicinal Qualities and Healing Gifts of the Biodynamic Preparations (p. 24) Soil Health and Human Fertility (p. 24)
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Session 4 Session 4
Session 1 Session 2
Session 3 Session 4
Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 2 Session 4
Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Session 2 Session 2 Session 3 Session 3 Session 4 Session 4
Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 1 Session 2 Session 2 Session 3 Session 3 Session 4 Session 4 Session 4
WORKSHOPS BY TRACK Innovative Farming Practices
Origins, Development, and Modern Trends in Biodynamic Agriculture (p. 15) Permaculture in Practice at Salamander Springs Farm (p. 15) Biodynamic Winegrowing (p. 15) The Synergy of Livestock on Farms, Orchards and Vineyards (p. 16) Understanding Health and Disease in Soil and Plants: A Biodynamic Approach (p. 17) Pfeiffer Soil Testing Revisited (p. 16) Integrating the Biodynamic Preparations on a Large Farm (p. 19) Staying with It: The Rhythms of Animals, Ecology, and Economics at Sequatchie Cove Farm (p. 20) Weeds, What They Tell, and How to Ferment Them for Fertilizers (p. 20) Biodynamic Solutions to Pest Problems (p. 20) Farming with Empathy (p. 22) Farming with the Demeter Biodynamic Standard (p. 22) Integrating Vegetable Seed Saving in your CSA or Market Garden (p. 22) No-Till Permaculture Systems for Staple Crop Production (p. 24) Vines and Ovines (p. 24) Young Biodynamic Farmers (p. 25) Field Day at Foxhollow Farm Field Day at Long Hungry Creek Farm
Soil and Compost
Fermenting: Enhancing Human and Soil Health (p. 12) Merging Modern Methods and Old-Time Wisdom for Gardening and Farming (p. 12) Pfeiffer Soil Testing Revisited (p. 16) Compost Quality, Innovations, and Biodynamic Influences (p. 17) Building Biodynamic Soil (p. 20) Composting as a Free Deed: Being and Becoming (p. 21)
The Social Dimension of Agriculture
Our Agrarian Future: A Conversation with Mary Berry (p. 16) Securing Capital from Social Investors (p. 16) Creating Fair Farms (p. 17) The Individuality of the Farm and the Human Being (p. 19) Innovative Farm Succession and Land Ownership Strategies (p. 19) A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives (p. 20) Questions and Conversation on Themes from the Conference The Biodynamics of Health: The New Ecology (p. 20) The Economics of Sacred Agriculture (p. 21) Rudolf Steiner, Wendell Berry, and the Re-Settling of America (p. 21) Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA: Lessons from the Founding Generation (p. 21) Farming with Empathy (p. 22 Field Day at Foxhollow Farm
Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 1 Session 1 Session 1 Session 2 Session 2 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 4 Session 4 Session 4 Session 4 Session 4 Post-Conference Post-Conference
Pre-Conference Pre-Conference Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 3
Session I Session 1 Session 2 Session 2 Session 2 Session 2 Sessions 2 and 3 Session 3 Session 3 Session 3 Session 3 Session 4 Post-Conference
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WORKSHOPS Thursday Thursday, November 13
Full-Day Workshops, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Merging Modern Methods and Old-Time Wisdom for Gardening and Farming — Jeff Poppen (Conference Theater) Jeff Poppen, Tennessee’s “Barefoot Farmer,” will cover the practical aspects of biodynamic gardening and farming in this full-day workshop, drawing on his 30+ years’ experience as a biodynamic market gardener. Beginning with an overview of why biodynamics came into being, we will review Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Course and discuss how to implement the indications for biodynamic agriculture throughout the life of your garden or farm. We will focus on building a dynamically, biologically active soil, encompassing topics ranging from minerals, soil biology, and tilth to the making and use of biodynamic preparations. The day will also include a hands-on demonstration of the horn manure preparation. There will be plenty of time for questions and answers, so bring all your burning questions about practical biodynamics! The Spiritual Foundation for Biodynamics — Gunther Hauk, Cynthia Hoven, Harald Hoven (Gulfstream/Hialeah) This workshop will be divided into four sessions: 1) the basic principles of biodynamics, 2) earthly and cosmic forces and the agricultural individuality, 3) enlivening our understanding through eurythmy, 4) the biodynamic homeopathic preparations: an introduction.
Morning Workshops, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Biodynamic Boot Camp for Gardeners — Robert King, Susan Kurz (Oaks) Biodynamic Boot Camp introduces biodynamics to urban gardeners who have a small garden — as little as 10’x12’ — in a lawn, community garden plot, or shared garden site. Students will learn tools, techniques, and preparations for a successful small-scale experience in biodynamics. Attention is given to building quality soil and compost using barrel compost preparation (BC) and readily available local organic materials: green grass clippings, leaves, and animal manures. Gardening is not limited simply to the growing season; Biodynamic Boot Camp involves a detailed discussion of the
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“garden’s year.” “Garden” means “to enclose” and is defined by the perimeter. Gardeners will learn practices to become better observers, gain awareness of changes within the garden, and learn how to respond to support the growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, and grains. Participants will acquire skills to stir and apply barrel compost and equisetum spray to balance increasingly wet growing seasons. Fermenting: Enhancing Human and Soil Health — Shabari Bird (Seneca/Iroquois) Join Shabari Bird for a demonstration fermentation of veggies, grains, and dairy for human health. For soil and farm health, Shabari will present easy methods for fermenting your weeds for fertilizers and minerals. Many of our most health-giving ferments are derived from soil bacteria. Natto has the highest source of Vitamin K and uses Bacillus subtilis as starter. Koji, the source of miso and sake, comes from soil fungus Aspergillus orazae. Ginger provides a rich microbial and bacteria mix for the soil and for the Korean favorite kimchi. Shabari first learned to ferment from her father when she was a young girl. He taught her sauerkraut and salami making. She has taught fermenting workshops at the John Campbell Folk School, Nashville Food Summit, Australian Biodynamic Association conferences, and in her homes in the US and Australia. Holistic Planned Grazing: Principles, Practice and Design — Kelly Mulville (Shawnee/Cherokee) Well-managed livestock consistently benefit the health, profitability, and ease of management on farms, orchards, and vineyards. Holistic planned grazing is a powerful tool that often leads to significant reductions in farm inputs while increasing soil health, crop quality, and biodiversity. This presentation will explore the principles and practices for effectively managing livestock grazing on a range of farming situations. Working with a Goethean Approach in Biodynamic Education and Mentorship — Craig Holdrege (Downs/Churchill) As Goethe wrote, “if we want to behold nature in a living way, we must follow her example and become as mobile and malleable as nature herself.” How do we develop such inner mobility and flexibility? How can we develop a more intimate perception and understanding of the organisms and processes that make up the life of a farm or garden? How
SNAKES WELCOME. To many, the sight of a snake in the garden is a bad omen. In our biodynamic garden in Eckwälden, Germany, we have built a house for our resident snake and offer him (or her) a greeting as we pass. While the respect and nurturance a skin care company shows a snake may seem irrelevant or silly, we know otherwise—and know you do, too. Dr. Hauschka Skin Care, Inc. is a proud supporter of the 2014 Biodynamic Conference. dr.hauschka.com
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WORKSHOPS Thursday
can inner work flow into our day-to-day activities? In this workshop we will work with exercises in both inner and outer observation and also with the practice of “exact sensorial imagination.” We will discuss how all this has its place in farmer education and apprenticeships.
Afternoon Workshops, 1:00 - 5:00 pm Hands-On with the Biodynamic Preparations — Hugh Courtney, Patricia Frazier, Lloyd Nelson (Foxhollow Farm, bus departs Hyatt at 12:30 pm) Members of the Fellowship of the Preparation Makers will instruct this hands-on workshop at Foxhollow Farm in fundamental biodynamic preparation making, stirring, application, and uses. The workshop will begin with a lecture on the biodynamic spray preparations, including barrel compost. After the lecture, participants will rotate between a stirring exercise, making barrel compost, and a tactile experience of several preparations provided by Fellowship members. The barrel compost will then be buried on Foxhollow Farm. Bus to the farm is included in the registration fee, departing the motor lobby entrance of the Hyatt Regency at 12:30 pm sharp. Participants may eat lunch at the Hyatt before boarding the bus (advance registration required) or are welcome to bring a brown bag lunch. The bus will return to the Hyatt by 5:30 pm. Transforming a Conventional Hog Farm Through Biodynamics — Philip Lyvers (Lyvers Farm, vans departs Hyatt at 12:30 pm) In this advanced on-farm workshop, those experienced with biodynamics are invited to tour, experience, and observe Lyvers Farm, taste food raised on the farm, and engage in conversation around the many questions and possibilities this unique farm inspires. Fourteen years ago, and after 30 years of commercial farming, Philip began using biodynamic practices with his large-scale hog and grain operation. Lyvers Farm is now a farrow-to-finish operation with a closed herd, using no antibiotics, vaccines, wormers or hormones, selling 9,000 hogs per year. Vans to the farm are included in the registration fee, departing the motor lobby entrance of the Hyatt Regency at 12:30 pm sharp. Participants may eat lunch at the Hyatt before boarding the bus (advance registration required) or are welcome to bring a brown bag lunch. Sausage and sauerkraut will also be served upon arrival at the farm. The vans will return to the Hyatt by 5:30 pm.
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Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine — Matias Baker; Dana Burns, DVM; Betsy Cashen, RD; David Gershan, MD; Melissa Greer, DO; Steven Johnson, DO; Dennis Klocek; Mac Mead; Basil Williams, DO; Elizabeth Sustick, RN (Pimlico A & B) This advanced workshop responds to a common heartfelt need being expressed by many individuals presently working in the fields of biodynamic agriculture and anthroposophic medicine. Through a blend of presentations and discussions, participants will look at the connections between these spheres. Presentations by Steven Johnson, DO and Dennis Klocek will be interspersed with presentations and discussions in small groups on various aspects of the theme. We will then come together to harvest insights and share thoughts on how to continue bridging these spheres in the future. We envision the gathering serving as a seed for continued conversations. The event is sponsored by the Biodynamic Association, the Physicians’ Association for Anthroposophic Medicine, and the Raphael Medical Foundation. Please note that this workshop runs until 6:00 pm. Forming and Dissolving: A Workshop for Educators — Jonathan Code (Derby) This workshop will explore the fundamental polarity of forming and dissolving as a principle in natural processes, a dynamic in consciousness, and an approach to working with biodynamic education. We will explore this polarity through the lenses of science (phenomenology), art (creative process), and dialogue (group reflection). This workshop will touch on personal methods of working as an educator in biodynamics (my own!) developed over the last ten years with the aim of fostering a forum for sharing practice amongst others engaged in teaching/learning in this exciting field. Health Strategies for Organic Livestock — Hubert Karreman (Shawnee/Cherokee) In this workshop, we will address the basic tenets for farm animal health, the immune system, holistic approaches to internal parasities, allowed conventional medicines for certified organic livestock, biologics, botanicals, acupuncture, homeopathy, and intuitive energy.
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Thursday - Friday Origins, Development, and Modern Trends in Biodynamic Agriculture — Hugh Lovel (Seneca/Iroquois) We will begin this workshop by looking at science as the art of knowing, using Goethean observation to work with both spirit and substance in science and to discover beauty and goodness as well as truth. We will also cover how Rudolf Steiner’s background in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and medicine relates to and can help us understand biodynamics. Next we will discuss the evolution of the term “biodynamic” and the development of biodynamic preparations and practices, including horn clay, barrel compost, Lily Kolisko’s experiments with crystallization and homeopathy sequential spraying, and many others. Finally, we will look at the quantum revolution in science and its implications for the application of intent, non-locality, entanglement, coherence, syntropy, and homeopathic potencies, and how this relates to prayer, dowsing, homeopathy, map spraying, field broadcasting, radionics, and other practices. Permaculture in Practice at Salamander Springs Farm — Susana Lein (Downs/Churchill) Learn to implement permaculture principles and practices on your farm or homestead — to utilize local resources, nutrients, and energy and to cycle them through your farm systems. Drawing on 30 years of experience and practices developed at Salamander Springs Farm, Susana Lein will teach you how to create and maintain healthy, living soil — without tillage. The workshop will demonstrate staple grain and dry bean crops and intensive vegetable production, utilizing continuous cover crops, poultry forages, mulches, and living manures. Farm practices and systems will include nutrient and water capture (ponds, gray water, rainwater catchment), perennial fruits and nuts, polycultures, solar food dehydrating, seed saving, use of poultry, working with micro-climates, gravity, and slope. Participants will also be introduced to passive solar design and construction, off-grid solar electricity, gravity-fed spring water, and using salvage materials, local lumber, clay, and straw in natural building on the farm. This workshop will give you tools for a holistic approach to sustaining your farm or homestead during uncertain times.
Friday, November 14
Session 1, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Alchemical Principles of the Biodynamic Preparations — Dennis Klocek (Conference Theater) This workshop will focus on the alchemical principle of spagyric substance that is at the core of biodynamic preparation methods. The term “spagyric” was coined by the great alchemist Paracelsus to describe procedures for taking apart a substance at one level of existence and reinvesting it into itself it at a higher, more energetic, level. The resulting spagyric substance transcends its natural order energetically. Seen in this way, putting cow manure in a cow horn is alchemically spagyric. But the alchemy in the biodynamic preparations goes even deeper because the imagination behind how to carry out spagyric processes involves recognizing the synergy between the salt, sulfur, and mercury forces in the substances being worked with. This workshop will offer insights into these three universal processes at work in biodynamic practices. This is an advanced workshop intended for those with a working knowlege of biodynamic principles and practice. Biodynamic Winegrowing — Sarah Black, Joseph Brinkley, Ned Horton, Will Stapp (Pimlico A) Benefit from the insights of a panel of professional and mid- to large-scale vineyard managers who practice biodynamics in a commercial vineyard setting. Discussion will center around biodynamic practices as they relate to “real world” farming needs with respect to quality wine grape production. The panel will present specifics on their practices, challenges they have dealt with, how they implement the methods, and the results they have witnessed over time, leaving time for audience questions. Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy — Dana Burns, Matt Davis, Bente Goldstein, Traci Partin, Nicki Robb (Pimlico C) Join us as this panel of veteran farm-based educators shares details about their programs and how they incorporate Rudolf Steiner’s pedagogical principles, as well answers your questions on curriculum and how best to work with students of all types on your farm or garden.
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WORKSHOPS Friday
Our Agrarian Future: A Conversation with Mary Berry — Mary Berry, with Robert Karp (Gulfstream/Hialeah) Mary Dee Berry is the daughter of Wendell and Tanya Berry and the executive director of The Berry Center in New Castle, Kentucky. This newly formed foundation is dedicated to continuing the work of Wendell Berry in order to create an agriculture that uses nature as the standard, accepts no permanent damage to the ecosphere, and takes into consideration human health in local communities. Our conversation will focus on several themes from Mary’s current thinking about the future of agriculture, including creating an economic and policy infrastructure for farmers based on the parity system, and how we can inculcate deep agrarian values and capacities in a new generation of aspiring farmers who have not grown up on farms. Pfeiffer Soil Testing Revisited — Hugh Lovel (Seneca/Iroquois) Biodynamic preparations are wonderful for catalyzing the soil biology and organizing what is present in soils. They can sometimes seem magical in the speed and efficacy of results. But it sure is hard to organize something that isn’t there. Many biodynamic growers would be amazed at how well their preparations work when they blend their key deficiencies into their compost before spreading. Rudolf Steiner guided Ehrenfried Pfeiffer’s studies in this direction, and Pfeiffer was doing comprehensive soil testing in the ‘50s and ‘60s. This workshop carries this forward with hundreds of examples, easy-to-follow methods, and soil testing labs performing these tests in both America and Australia. Plain Speaking the Language of Biodynamics — Cynthia Hoven (Oaks) If you have studied the fundamentals of biodynamic agriculture, you know that Rudolf Steiner used phrases that are hard to understand at first reading. Spend some time with Cynthia Hoven, a lecturer on anthroposophical studies, to go deeper into the basic concepts that lie at the root of things. The topics will include: What are etheric forces? What are astral forces? What are earthly and cosmic forces? What did Rudolf Steiner mean when he refered to elemental beings?
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Securing Capital from Social Investors — Tera Johnson, Don Shaffer, Woody Tasch(Downs) Organic and biodynamic farmers and food entrepreneurs need capital to start, maintain, and grow their operations. Fortunately, a growing number of socially minded “slow money” investors and institutions are showing an interest in providing a source of affordable and friendly capital to local farmers and food entrepreneurs. What are we learning from these efforts? What are best practices? How can a farmer be prepared to work effectively with a social investor? What resources are out there for farmers, entrepreneurs, and would-be investors? Come benefit from the wisdom of this talented panel. The Synergy of Livestock on Farms, Orchards and Vineyards — Kelly Mulville (Pimlico B) Well-managed livestock have demonstrated significant benefits to the overall health, profitability, and ease of management of farms, orchards, and vineyards. Of particular importance is reducing or eliminating outside inputs including fossil fuels, machinery, fertilizers, hand labor, and irrigation. Simultaneous increases in crop quality and yield, biodiversity, soil health, and quality of life for both humans and livestock are common benefits of sound grazing practices. This presentation will explore the principles and practices of effectively managing various classes of livestock in numerous farm settings including orchards, vineyards, row crops, and cover crops. Understanding and Using the Nine Biodynamic Preparations — Hugh Courtney, Lloyd Nelson (Derby) What are the biodynamic preparations? Why, when, and how should they be used? In this workshop, Hugh Courtney, founder of the Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics (JPI), and biodynamic advocate Lloyd Nelson will provide a comprehensive overview of the nine biodynamic preparations. We will begin with an investigation into the theoretical aspects of the preparations, discuss how they are made, and then explore the many ways to practically apply the preparations on your farm or garden. Understanding Health and Disease in Soil and Plants: A Biodynamic Approach — Walter Goldstein (Churchill) Soil health can be maintained and built by routine applica-
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tions of high-quality organic matter and by application of biodynamic principles. However, we live in a world where soil quality is widely disregarded and exploitive and unnatural technologies are routinely applied to soil in order to grow food. The results of taking these shortcuts are greater problems with crop diseases and contamination of our water. We will discuss linkages between soil health, crop health, and animal and human health with a special emphasis on management-induced susceptibility to diseases. We will also discuss the effects of breeding under conventional or biologically healthy conditions on the positive and negative relationships between plants and their endophytic microorganisms. A Way of Knowing as a Way of Healing — Craig Holdrege (Shawnee/Cherokee) Biodynamic agriculture is concerned with establishing a healthful, spiritually grounded approach to working with the earth and producing food. Healing our interactions with the earth certainly involves lessening our ecological footprint and developing more nature-friendly technologies. But such measures will be truly lasting and fruitful inasmuch as they are rooted in and guided by a shift in consciousness and the ways we think. This shift involves developing ways of perceiving and thinking that are alive as nature herself. Many ingrained modern habits of thought stand in the way of this inner transformation. The question is: what would a healing way of knowing look like and how can we get there from here? Who Are the Animals Really? — Steffen Schneider (Belmont) The workshop will try to shed some light on the spiritual being of our farm animals and then, based on what we learn there, demonstrate practical consequences and techniques of husbandry and feeding and breeding. Why I Farm Biodynamically — Janet Gamble, Lincoln Geiger, Mac Mead (Aqueduct) In this workshop, three farmers, each of whom have been farming biodynamically for decades, will give a warm and candid picture of their farms and farming methods and share why biodynamics continues to be an inspiration and a source for personal and professional development. Mac Mead farms using draft horses and is the executive director of the Pfeiffer Center. Janet Gamble is owner-operator of
Turtle Creek Gardens and developed and led a nationally recognized farmer training program at the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute. Lincoln Geiger co-founded Temple-Wilton Community Farm, one of the first and most innovative community supported agriculture (CSA) farms in North America.
Friday, November 14
Session 2, 2:00 - 3:30 pm Biodynamic Beekeeping — Gunther Hauk (Seneca/Iroquois) In this workshop we will explore the mystery of the honeybee, her role in nature above and beyond pollination, and also her role in our evolution. Join renowned biodynamic beekeeper and author Gunther Hauk to gain insight into the need to change our basic paradigm in beekeeping and to understand naturally occurring processes and phenomena in the colony that need to be respected and strengthened if we want to let the honeybees regain their health and vitality. As Rudolf Steiner said in Bees, “Actually, every human being should show the greatest interest in this subject, because, much more than you can imagine, our lives depend upon beekeeping.” Compost Quality, Innovations, and Biodynamic Influences — Steve Diver (Churchill) This talk will address compost quality (whether buying in commercial compost or making your own), what to look for and how to understand compost quality (through lab testing and DIY qualitative methods, including the circular paper chromatography method), innovative methods and uses from around the world, and biodynamic influences (reflecting on the trend-setting methods of Dr. Ehrenfried Pfeiffer that are seeing a resurgence and progression in today’s world). Creating Fair Farms — Elizabeth Henderson (Oaks) A biodynamic farm aspires to be a harmonious living organism. What does this mean for the people who work on the farm? How can we nurture mutually supportive and fair relationships in the context of employer and employees on a farm? What will transform work on farms for farmers/ farmworkers into respected careers with livable compensation? Come with your ideas about what it would mean to allow a voice at the table for everyone who works on a farm,
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www.urielpharmacy.com
866.642.2858
Biodynamic Winter Intensive 2015
Two weeks of workshops for farmers, gardeners and others seeking a renewed relation to the land
February 8 - 13
WWW. TURTLETREESEED. ORG
FOR A FREE CATALOG PLEASE CALL: 518-329-3037 TURTLE @ TURTLETREESEED . ORG
Developing a Qualitative Understanding of Nature: Animals, Humanity and Evolution at The Nature Institute
February 15 - 20
The Role of the Animal and the Human Being in Light of Our Evolving Earth at Hawthorne Valley Farm
For more information: www.hawthornevalleyfarm.org
FARM | 518-672-7500 327 County Route 21C, Ghent NY 12075
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while providing living wages, decent benefits and pricing that gives access to nutrient dense, organic, culturally appropriate, locally grown food to people of all income levels. Gardening with the Four Elements — Tal Simchoni (Conference Theater) This workshop will give an imagination of the four elements, helping participants to picture their own properties in light of earth, water, air, and warmth. Where is an element more active? Where is it missing and needing balance? Is this element perhaps off the property but nearby in a way you can connect to? This will be followed by a drawing exercise and a conversation of the drawings. We will also experience the elements in movement with our bodies. Workshop participants are encouraged to read an excerpt on the four elements from the book Culture and Horticulture: The Classic Guide to Biodynamic and Organic Gardening prior to attending the workshop. The Individuality of the Farm and the Human Being — Leah Walker (Gulfstream/Hialeah) The potential to perceive, with real understanding, the individuality—of a place, of another, of ourselves—is an ever-present, ever-evolving possibility, one we may work with all our lives to finesse, whether we are called to the land, to the healing arts, or into a deeper commitment within community. The parallels between farm and human being are both plain and extraordinary. Just as Rudolf Steiner articulated biodynamics as healing remedy for the earth, he also suggested a practice commonly referred to as biography work—the art of observing life experience—as healing remedy for the human soul and, further, for our shared social environment. This workshop will focus on the practical application of biography work on active farms and within educational settings, illuminating new ways of perceiving life experience and social dynamics, serving our efforts to heal the earth and create a more hopeful future. Innovative Farm Succession and Land Ownership Strategies — John Bloom, Jean-Paul Courtens, Tom Spaulding (Downs) In this workshop, we will explore how we think about and construct ownership, determine appropriate use, and connect to community as the basic elements of farmland preservation. This threefold view of land can be used as a framework for land use planning, as well as protection and stewardship.
Ownership is a matter of destiny, use a matter of rights, and community an economic function. Based upon the practical experience gleaned from farmers and farmland trusts, this workshop is designed to help problem solve and and plan for the future of farmland. This workshop will highlight some innovative examples of farm succession and land ownership from within and outside of the biodynamic community. Integrating the Biodynamic Preparations on a Large Farm — Ulrich Hack (Pimlico B) The Hack Farm is a 1,000-acre Demeter certified Biodynamic farm close to Lake Huron in Ontario. A wide variety of grain crops are grown, as well as hay and pasture for beef cattle, and there is an on-farm dairy and bakery. All of the biodynamic preparations are made on the farm and distributed to many other farms in the area. In this workshop, Uli Hack will share some of the unique features of his family farm, from the crops grown to the social form of ownership, and then delve into the specifics of the role of the preparations on the farm — including preparation making, methods of applying the preparations to large acreage, and the social element of producing and distributing the preparations as part of the farm’s activities. Sensitizing Minerals, Plants, and Animals for Human Nutrition — Philip Lyvers (Pimlico A) Nutrition, whether you are talking about soils (minerals), plants, animals, or man is both a challenge to understand and essential to a farmer’s success. We will look at nutrition from conventional to organic to biodynamic systems, using the case study of Lyvers Farm’s evolution from conventional to a hybrid incorporating biodynamic practices. We will also discuss how spiritualizing minerals can re-enliven humanity and help it move toward spirit. This is an advanced workshop intended for those with a working knowlege of biodynamic principles and practice. The Source of Healing in Plants, The Source of Healing in Gardens — Jean David Derreumaux, Deb Soule (Shawnee/Cherokee) Each medicinal plant embodies its own form, flavor, fragrance, texture, chemistry, healing properties, and personality. This is also true of the garden as a whole being — awake and alive with color, aroma, purpose, and personality. We will first explore a variety of elements to include in the
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WORKSHOPS Friday - Saturday design of a healing garden such as water, light, hedgerows, pollinator habitats, meditation spaces, arbors, rock walls, native plants, and medicinal herbs. Using fresh herbs from a nearby garden, participants will be guided through a threestep process in developing a deeper spiritual connection with a plant. This process, when practiced regularly, deepens and inspires a person’s understanding of the source of healing found in individual plants and in gardens. Staying with It: The Rhythms of Animals, Ecology, and Economics at Sequatchie Cove Farm — Bill Keener (Belmont) Working with animals is the central theme of Sequatchie Cove Farm. In this workshop we will share the rhythms of our farm and how animals are integral to both its ecology and economics, touching on marketing, education, communication, multigenerations, finance, and how the flow and ebb of our living farm works. Weeds, What They Tell, and How to Ferment Them for Fertilizers — Shabari Bird (Derby) Shabari Bird leads us through an exploration of common weeds and what they reveal about soil and mineral deficiencies. Henbit, for example, is a common weed occuring in biodynamic gardens. Its purple flowers indicate a copper deficiency. This weed is serving your garden to provide your soil with copper. Many weeds are biostimulants with abundant plant growth hormones, and fermentation of these plants releases these growth factors without spreading the weeds’ seeds. Shabari will also introduce agro-homeopathy, a natural system that utilizes the energetic patterns of plants, animals, and minerals without the toxic side effects. Shabari will reveal this dynamic form of agriculture, which is being widely used in Brazil, India, Pakistan, and Europe. A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives — Coree Entwistle, Cher Smith, Robin Verson, withKaren Davis-Brown (Pimlico C) This will be a conversational time, hosted by the Radical Farmwives, exploring a few of the facets of farm and homestead life from a woman’s perspective. The three hubs around which we will wind our discussion are: 1) The land, family, and gardens — the home business 2) Family and community — living in contact 3) Biodynamics, anthroposophy, and spiritual life — working from the inside
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We will share our own perspectives and invite open conversation with all attendees. Our goal is are to generate inspiration, information, and greater connectivity locally and continentally.
Saturday, November 15
Session 3, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Biodynamic Solutions to Pest Problems — Hugh Courtney (Conference Theater) In this workshop we will go beyond “pest control” to explore the larger question of what stimulates pests to appear in our agricultural environment and what their presence is trying to tell us. We will cover the practical aspects of “ashing,” or “peppering,” and participants will undertake a potentization exercise. We will emphasize the insights to be gained from a thorough study of Lecture Six of Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Course. The Biodynamics of Health: The New Ecology — Steven Johnson, DO (Seneca/Iroquois) There is a new emerging global consciousness about the interconnectedness of all things natural and supranatural. In this seminar we will explore anthroposophical insights into the current dynamics between health, nutrition, ecology, and spirituality. Are we crossing a new threshold of human awareness that transcends and inspires us beyond the material views of health, nutrition, and ecology in our present time? Building Biodynamic Soil — Jeff Poppen (Shawnee/Cherokee) In this workshop, we will focus on how to build a dynamically, biologically active soil, encompassing topics ranging from minerals, soil biology, and tilth, to the making and use of biodynamic preparations. We will explore what Rudolf Steiner meant by “you should go on manuring as before” in the Agriculture Course and how we can form the foundation of the health of our farms and gardens through our soil. Composting as a Free Deed: Being and Becoming — Bruno Follador (Belmont) The focus of this workshop will be to stimulate a different way of seeing and relating to compost. At the same time technical and practical details of how to mix, build, and turn
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the compost pile and, most importantly, how to understand and access the different qualities of the organic matter and the compost pile itself, will also be adressed. The workshop will revolve around the following questions: How can we develop a living, practical, and personal relationship with compost and soil fertility that goes beyond a mentality of waste management and yields? How does our way of seeing, thinking, and speaking contribute to creating our agricultural reality? And within this context could we start seeing the compost pile as an outer expression of our way of thinking and relating to nature, where the compost pile begins to show itself as the outer expression of the inner gesture of the gardener and farmer? CowSignals and Subtle Signs of Animal Health — Hubert Karreman, VMD (Pimlico C) The CowSignals method of observation enables the audience to quickly learn key visual signs that help inform the farmer if their cows’ basic needs of feed, water, air, light, rest, and space are being met. CowSignals is geared to removing obstacles to health in hopes of also producing more milk. A portion of the talk will delve into a bit more esoteric signs of animal health as well. The Economics of Sacred Agriculture — Henning Sehmsdorf (Derby) The term “economics” comes from the ancient Greek word “oekonomia,” which Aristotle defined as stewardship of the household in imitation of nature providing for her offspring. In this session, farmer, academic, and businessman Henning Sehmsdorf will show how this alternative idea of economics can transform the management practices of the small-scale, self-sufficient farm. We will examine farm production logs and budgets and explore the difference between husbanding the land in order to meet the needs of households and communities and the usual profit-focused enterprise model. We will also consider how this relates to Rudolf Steiner’s dual vision of associative economics and of agriculture as the means by which to heal the earth, and how that vision illuminates the economics of sacred agriculture. The Emerging Biodynamic Marketplace — Elizabeth Candelario, David Byrnes (Pimlico B) Amy’s Kitchen, Republic of Tea, Lundberg, Suja Juice, and many other organic food companies are developing Biodynamic® products for store shelves. Wonder what all the Bio-
dynamic buzz is about? Please join us for a discussion about the emerging Biodynamic marketplace, and explore why Biodynamic farming and the development of Biodynamic products represents an emerging marketplace trend. Geomancy and the Health of the Biodynamic Organism — Karen Davis-Brown (Aqueduct) At its essence, biodynamic agriculture is the development of skills, capacities, knowledge, and awareness to partner with all of the beings who live and work with us, as the human egos who are the heads, hearts, and hands of our agricultural individualities. Bringing together the geomancy taught by Ana and Marko Pogacnik, the information provided by natural science, and the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, this workshop will provide information, resources, and a forum for discussing how the participant, as a biodynamic practitioner, can participate in this partnership in a new way. This is an advanced workshop intended for those with a working knowlege of biodynamic principles and practice. Rudolf Steiner, Wendell Berry, and the Resettling of America — Steffen Schneider, Rachel Schneider (Downs) Ninety years after Rudolf Steiner’s “Koberwitz Impulse” and 35 years after Wendell Berry’s book The Unsettling of America, we find ourselves at a crossroads. Drawing on the insights and inspirations of Steiner and Berry, we will explore future bearing elements now emerging as the real food economy. Can we discern and fashion a new narrative for Agri-Culture? Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA: Lessons from the Founding Generation — Jean-Paul Courtens, Janet Gamble, Lincoln Geiger, Elizabeth Henderson, John Peterson (Churchill) From its humble — and radical — beginnings as an intimate, shared-risk partnership between a single farm and group of consumers, today’s 13,000+ community supported agriculture (CSA) farms have become as diverse as the crops they grow (employing CSA as just one market channel or strategy among many) and some serving thousands of members with produce from multiple farms. How do we start, grow, and maintain high-integrity CSAs in this increasingly complex and competitive environment? In this workshop some of the country’s most successful CSA pioneers will take questions and share “warts and all” from their rich wisdom and experience.
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WORKSHOPS Saturday
Terrestrial and Cosmic Nutrition: Why Biodynamics Is a Great Help for Spiritualizing Our Thinking — Gunther Hauk (Gulfstream/Hialeah) What do we really get from the food we eat, not only in relation to substances but also to forces? We all are familiar with the stream of nutrition based on the food we eat, but we know little about the stream of nutrition that works in seven-year cycles. In this workshop, we will explore Rudolf Steiner’s understanding of nutrition and how these streams give us the capacity to think and to work. Urban Biodynamic Farming for Healthy Food and Thriving Communities — Daron “Farmer D” Joffe (Oaks) In this workshop, Farmer D will provide both practical advice and inspiration for starting, managing, and sustaining biodynamic gardens and farms in a wide variety of venues from backyards to master planned communities. He will also share examples of designs and actual projects where he has integrated biodynamic gardens and farms into homes, schools, hospitals, neighborhoods, resorts, and more.
Saturday, November 15 Session 4, 2:00 - 3:30 pm
Biodynamic Education and the Tria Principia — Jonathan Code (Aqueduct) Undertaking the study of biodynamics through methods informed by the alchemical Tria Principia opens a wealth of possibilities. In the first instance, such an approach invites engagement through a braiding of science, artistic, and contemplative approaches. This opens the possibility for learning biodynamics to be transformative learning. Furthermore, biodynamic education can be integrative education if it engages the whole human being: hand, head, and heart. This workshop will establish a basis for the Tria Principia through the above methods in order to explore its relevance for deepening a relationship to both the theory and practice of biodynamics. Educators and practitioners alike may find this approach informative to their work in this dynamic realm of work and study. This is an advanced workshop intended for those with a working knowlege of biodynamic principles and practice.
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Farming with Empathy — Jean-Paul Courtens (Oaks) This workshop is an introduction to an alternative approach of farming whereby a balance is found between mind and heart, between service and self-interest, between numbers and imaginations. Jean-Paul will address what motivated him to be a farmer and how biodynamics informs every decision made on the farm, resulting in both the just and the practical. He will share the what, the how, and the why at Roxbury Farm, exploring biodynamics as more than a reduced-input model: working the land, employing others, working with animals, marketing products, purchasing equipment, and financing, owning, and passing on the farm. Farming with the Demeter Biodynamic Standard — Jim Fullmer (Derby) The US Demeter Farm Standard is written based on seven basic principles that comprehensively outlines the Biodynamic concept of a farm as a living organism. It is a very practical and agronomic view of Biodynamic agriculture that has roots back to the foundation of the sustainable agriculture movement itself (1927). The Demeter Standards not only form a well-rounded and comprehsensive education tool to explain the general practice of Biodynamic agriculture, they also serve as a very high-bar threshold definition for Biodynamic agriculture that protects the US consumer from dilution of its integrity. This workshop will focus on the seven principles behind the Standard and is recommended for any practioner or consumer seeking a well-rounded, hands-in-the-earth explanation of what Biodynamic agriculture is and why Biodynamic farmers are some of very best on the planet. Integrating Vegetable Seed Saving in your CSA or Market Garden — Cory Eichman, Paul Entwistle (Pimlico B) Saving seeds used to be part of the culture of farming, but the move towards specialization has pushed most vegetable growers to rely completely on the global seed industry. It can be a challenge to grow your own seed when you have dozens of crops, many of which are varieties of the same species. This workshop will explore some practical suggestions for integrating seeds into your production. We will consider isolation issues, selection and breeding, population sizes, space issues, economic concerns, and the importance of enthusiasm!
Organic Valley dairy farmers like the Polich family believe in the importance of providing healthy, local organic dairy products for the communities they live in. For over 25 years, our farmer-owned cooperative has been committed to producing nutritious organic products in harmony with the earth and with respect for animals. Learn more about our mission at OrganicValley.coop.
ŠOrganic Valley 2014-11070
Polich Family Farm One of our more than 750 Midwest farmer-members
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WORKSHOPS Saturday
Making the Soil, Food, Health Connection — Patrick Holden (Conference Theater) Ninety years after Rudolf Steiner gave his Agriculture Course to farmers, the messages from the lectures remain as prescient as ever. In this workshop we will connect the ideas and impulses of Steiner and Sir Albert Howard with our rapidly evolving current understanding of the life of the soil and plant, animals, and human health. This will lead into a discussion of how modern farmers can best steward the earth and its people by building healthier soils, which will in turn enhance the vitality of the plants, animals, and people upon which work the health of future civilizations will depend.
Soil Health and Human Fertility — Dawn Combs (Pimlico C) There is a strong correlation between the fertility of the land and the fertility of our population. We must stop treating only the symptoms of nutritional deficiencies in farmland just as we must stop treating the symptoms of disease in the human body without ever taking the time to correct the imbalance at the root in either. Dawn Combs overcame an infertility diagnosis using her own botanical and whole food protocol while living on the family’s small biodynamic farm. Through her personal story we will explore the need for a deeper healing of the soil if we are to heal the current lack of fertility in our bodies.
The Medicinal Qualities and Healing Gifts of the Biodynamic Preparations — Deb Soule (Seneca/Iroquois) Yarrow, chamomile, nettle, oak bark, dandelion, valerian, and horsetail have been used as medicine by herbalists for a very long time. The medicinal qualities, herbal actions, and healing gifts of each plant will be discussed, along with how to grow and prepare them into teas, tinctures, and flower essences. Part of the workshop will include tasting the herbs and reflecting on the feelings and insights that arise.
Understanding the Nature of the Vortex — Jennifer Greene (Gulfstream/Hialeah) The vortex is the principal water form that takes up the substances of the biodynamic horn manure (500) and horn silica (501) preparations. We will look at surfaces, movement, rhythm, and pulsation as these give the matrix for the preparations to work. Through slides, video, and direct experience we will explore the fascinating phenomenon of the vortex and its importance for biodynamics.
No-Till Permaculture Systems for Staple Crop Production — Susana Lein (Churchill) This workshop will focus on an important component of the permaculture systems covered in the pre-conference afternoon workshop: non-mechanized staple crop production without tillage. Susana Lein will draw on 30 years of experience and practices developed at Salamander Springs Farm in creating and maintaining healthy, living soil — without tillage — from degraded land without topsoil. She will demonstrate the farm’s systems for staple grains and dry beans, inspired by Japanese rice farmer Masunobu Fukuoka’s seminal work, and for no-till cornmeal and popcorn, using “Three Sisters” native American practices. Use of poultry in the system, continuous cover crops, mulches, living manures, and integrating poultry forage crops will also be covered. Learn to cycle local resources, nutrients, and energy through your farm or homestead and to provide staple proteins and grains for your community.
Vines and Ovines — Jaime Irwin (Belmont) As biodynamic wine continues to grow in popularity, we are finding innovative ways to integrate animals into the vineyard system. This workshop will explore intense rotational grazing of sheep on a commercial scale in vineyards. We will cover the practicalities of managing sheep in a vineyard, including stocking numbers, rotational periods, and how to adjust of the amount of feed and weather. We will also discuss the beneficial effects that sheep can have within the system, looking at water saturation levels, nitrogen, production levels, carbon sequestration, and leaf-hopper populations.
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Working with Cosmic Rhythms and Planting Calendars — Harald Hoven, Sherry Wildfeuer (Shawnee/Cherokee) The plant is enveloped in the rhythms of sun, moon, and planets. Before you use a planting calendar to consult what should be done on a given day on the farm or in the garden, learn about the most important rhythms. Beginning with the sun and its influence on the day and the seasons, we will move on to consider the various rhythms of the moon, as
WORKSHOPS
Saturday - Sunday well as a basic understanding of the planets. Then we will explore Rudolf Steiner’s comments on sun, moon, and planets and finally look at how different biodynamic researchers have turned all this into planting time suggestions. Hopefully it will turn the attendees into researchers themselves, eager to explore the validity of the planting calendars, and coming up with their own ideas how to use the calendar. Please bring your calendars along to the workshop. Young Biodynamic Farmers — Monique Blais, Sara Patterson, Andrew Stewart, Eric Wooldridge, with Farmer John Peterson (Downs) What are the successes, challenges, hopes and dreams of the next generation of biodynamic farmers? Farmer John Peterson — lifelong farmer, author, social artist and star of The Real Dirt on Farmer John — will host this lively roundtable with four young biodynamic farmers from across the continent: Monique Blais (Grassroots Family Farm, PA), Sara Patterson (Red Acre Farm, UT), Andrew Stewart (Angelic Organics Farm, IL), and Eric Wooldridge (Bells Bend Farm, TN).
Sunday, November 16 Field Day at Foxhollow Farm — Laura Riccardi Lyvers, Janey Newton (Bus departs Hyatt at 11:30 am) This field day will begin with the history and overview of this 1,300-acre, family-owned farm. Working under organic and biodynamic practices since 2006, the farm is home to a grass-fed beef operation, vegetable gardens, and a variety of workshops and community events. Participants will then choose between two tracks to tour and look more closely at different aspects of the farm: (1) grazing practices and large-scale biodynamic applications or (2) connections to the land, the local community, and the food system. Bus to the farm is included in the registration fee, departing the motor lobby entrance of the Hyatt Regency at 11:30 am sharp. Those who pre-ordered a box lunch can pick up their lunch before boarding the bus (advance registration required) or are welcome to bring a brown bag lunch. The bus will return to the Hyatt by 5:30pm.
Field Day at Long Hungry Creek Farm — Jeff Poppen (Carpools depart Hyatt at 11:30 am) Join the “Barefoot Farmer” Jeff Poppen for a farm tour, dinner, and patio concert at Long Hungry Creek Farm, one of the oldest and largest farms working with organic and biodynamic practices in Tennessee. The goal of the Long Hungry Creek Farm is to grow the highest quality farm products possible, while enjoyably developing an economically viable, aesthetically pleasing, and humus-rich farm that remains relatively independent regarding its own feed and fertilizer needs. Poppen runs a community supported agriculture (CSA) program with the food he grows using about eight acres of his farmland and about 40 head of cattle. This CSA delivers fresh produce to about 200 patrons in the Nashville area, but does not account for all of the food grown at the farm. Poppen is always sure to have extra for neighbors, friends, and the surrounding community. Poppen has been making and utilizing biodynamic preparations in his farming and gardening for a little over 25 years, and has spent the last 40 years providing his own food for himself from what he is able to grow. Long Hungry Creek Farm is located 140 miles south of Louisville (a 2.5-hour drive). Bus transportation will not be provided to this field day, but we will coordinate carpooling among participants. Carpools should plan to depart the Hyatt at 11:30am. (Note that the farm is in Central Time, one hour earlier than Louisville). For those wishing to stay overnight, several local accommodation options are available.
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SPECIAL EVENTS Opening Celebration and Local Food Tasting Thursday, November 13, 6:00 - 9:00 pm The conference will open this year with a festive celebration featuring local foods, Biodynamic wine, music, a silent auction, and lots of time to connect with old friends and new. Conference Altar and Quiet Reflection Space Thursday - Sunday, November 13-16 We invite all conference participants to bring a small object from their farm, garden, or home landscape to add to the conference altar, which will be located in Keeneland. Throughout the conference this room will also be available for quiet reflection, meditation, and movement. Eurythmy: The Movements of Life Thursday, November 13, 8:00 - 8:45 am Friday - Sunday, November 14-16, 7:30 - 8:15 am Saturday, November 15, 4:00 - 5:30 pm Start each morning at the conference by taking your understanding of biodynamics to the next level and embodying your spiritual practice! Through eurythmy, the movement practice created by Rudolf Steiner, we engage in meaning-filled, mindful movements that refresh and inspire us, build community, and help us deepen our sense of meaning, purpose, and connection. An in-depth experience of eurythmy opens our understanding for the basic concepts of biodynamics, including the etheric world, rhythms of the year and of life and death, the relationship of macrocosm and microcosm, and much more. Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Impulse in North America — 90 Years after Koberwitz Friday - Sunday, November 14-16, 7:30 - 8:30 am 2014 marks 90 years after Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Course in Koberwitz, out of which the biodynamic movement was initiated. We will open each day of the conference together with an active exploration of the significance of the living Koberwitz impulse through silence, seed talks, conversation, and poetry. NABDAP Graduation Ceremony Friday, November 14, 7:30 - 8:00 pm Celebrate the newest crop of beginning biodynamic farmers graduating from the North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program. Apprentices who have completed two
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years of on-farm training, classroom study, and an independent project will be awarded certificates of completion and share stories from their farming education. Young Farmer Social Friday, November 14, 2014, 9:30 - 11:00 pm Mix and mingle with fellow young farmers at one of Louisville’s local establishments, the Bluegrass Brewing Company, located a few blocks from the conference venue. Meet at the bottom of the escalators at the Hyatt Regency after the keynote to walk together, or join the group later on your own. The BBC has an ever-changing selection of their own locally brewed beers on tap, as well as a full food menu. Walking directions from the Hyatt Regency: Exit the front doors and turn right (north) on 4th Street. Walk 2 1/2 blocks north to Main Street, then turn right (east). The BBC is one block east at the corner of 3rd Street and Main Street. Learning Community and Interest Group Meetups Friday, November 14, 4:00 - 5:30 pm Would you like to meet with other biodynamic urban gardeners, preparation makers, medicinal herb growers, or educators at the conference? Learning community and interest group meetups will create space for conference participants to share questions, ideas and experiences with one another through facilitated conversation. (See page 28.) Artistic Activities Saturday, November 15, 4:00 - 5:30 pm Engage your creativity with guided artistic sessions designed for farmers and gardeners (see page 30): • • • • •
Cultivating Spirit: Inner Practice = Outer Work Eurythmy: The Movements of Life Singing from the Inside Out Sensing the Story Dynamics of Work Movements: Movement Principles for Farmers and Those Who Work the Land
Honoring Hugh Courtney Saturday, November 15, 7:30 - 8:00 pm At each biodynamic conference we take the time to honor one of the pioneering elders of the biodynamic movement, sharing our gratitude and celebrating their accomplishments. This year we will honor Hugh Courtney, founder and former director of the Josephine Porter Institute for Ap-
SPECIAL EVENTS plied Biodynamics (JPI) and current owner of Earth Legacy Agriculture. Violin and Eurythmy Performance Saturday, November 15, 8:00 - 8:30 pm In this special performance, Emmanuel Vukovich and Sea-Anna Vasilas will perform selections from the Bach violin Sonata No. 2 in a minor, highlighting relationships between music, eurythmy, and farming, and co-creating a deeper understanding of the essence of nature through the arts. Square Dance Saturday, November 15, 8:30 - 10:00 pm Kick up your heels and enjoy a lively revival of the square dance, a tradition once common in farming communities. All dances will be taught and led by a caller, with live music from an old time string band led by farmer Eric Wooldrige. Beginner friendly and fun for all ages!
Film Screening: Coming to Ground Saturday, November 15, 8:30 - 10:00 pm Enjoy a feature documentary that portrays Kentucky’s efforts to move away from tobacco dependency to create a new agricultural economy and culture. Told through the voices of Kentucky farmers, agricultural thinkers, and policy makers, this is a story of how Kentucky agriculture survived catastrophic change to create a new farm culture and the foundation of a new local food system, featuring local farmers and presenters Janey Newton and Laura Riccardi Lyvers. Film Screening: One Man, One Cow, One Planet Saturday, November 15, 8:30 - 9:30 pm Watch the classic documentary that follows Peter Proctor, New Zealand’s father of biodynamics, along the back roads of rural India, revealing the miracle of organics and the farmers who are reclaiming their agricultural heritage. A must see!
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LEARNING COMMUNITY MEETUPS Saturday 4:00-5:30 pm Self-Organized Meetups In addition to the pre-organized meetups below, there will be 15 tables available in the Regency Ballroom for self-organized meetups, so you can name your topic at the conference and invite others to join you. Look for the large signup sheet near the entrance to the ballroom. Agriculture Section Sherry Wildfeuer (Shawnee) Biodynamics arose out of eight lectures given by Rudolf Steiner in the last year of his life, just six months after he re-founded the Anthroposophical Society and inaugurated the School for Spiritual Science. Members of the Agriculture Section of this School will welcome conversation with anyone interested in learning about how biodynamics relates to the Anthroposophical Society and about the work of the Agriculture Section on this continent. Anthroposophic Medicine for Animals and Livestock Dana Burns (Pimlico C) Farmers, anthroposophic doctors, and others who are interested in using anthroposophic medicine with animals will meet to share animal health issues we are experiencing, explore how anthroposophic medicine can help biodynamic farming, and discuss the practical implications of using these medicines on farms. Biodynamic Educators Collaborative Rachel Schneider (Iroquois) The Biodynamic Educators Collaborative is a growing group of biodynamic educators from across North America who come together to collaborate and share, identify, and nurture best practices and encourage a deepening and cross-fertilization of philosophy, principles, and practices. Current members as well as anyone interested in joining the collaborative are invited to participate in facilitated small group conversations related to developing ourselves as biodynamic educators. Biodynamic Initiative for the Next Generation Megan Durney (Churchill) The Biodynamic Initiative for the Next Generation (BING) is an invitation to connect, share, and learn from others who are concerned with the next generation of farmers and farming. Whether you are a young apprentice, a practiced biody-
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namic farmer, anywhere in between, on or off the farm, you are welcome to join us. We will explore the topic of “health” collectively through the principles and stages of the Theory U process developed by Otto Scharmer (www.presencing. org), a framework and social form that illuminates what may be unconscious as well as what is possible in the world. Biodynamic Medicinal Herb Growers Dennis Klocek (Aqueduct) Each herb plant has mastered a particular environmental challenge, and the forces that the plant uses to master that challenge become active as a challenge to the life body of the recipient of the herb. As the life body acts to master the herbal challenge, health is restored to the recipient. Please come to the group with anecdotes about how growing strategies of herbs under your care have enabled the plants to master environmental challenges in your growing area. Biodynamic Writers Mark Ross (Pimlico B) Biodynamic writers—whether you write a blog, a CSA newsletter, educational articles, or books—are invited to meet with others who are communicating biodynamics and “farming the living word” to share experiences and questions with one another. Biography Work for a Healthy Social Future Leah Walker (Ballroom 21-22) Anyone interested in self-development and fostering healthy relationships is invited to discuss what biography work looks like in practice and explore how it can be applied in work and organizational life. Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Matias Baker and David Gershan, MD (Ballroom 44-45) Farmers, health practitioners, and others with a strong foundation in biodynamics or anthroposophic medicine are invited to explore the connections between these two fields, building on the pre-conference event on this theme. Please bring your thoughts on the following questions: What are the key overlaps or areas of activity bridging biodynamic agriculture and anthroposophic medicine? What are some examples of work currently being done in this shared field? How can anthroposophical medical insights support the work of biodynamic farmers and vice versa? How can prac-
LEARNING COMMUNITY MEETUPS
Saturday 4:00-5:30 pm
titioners in these two fields best collaborate? How can we strengthen this bridge in the future? Building Community Around Farms Lincoln Geiger (Ballroom 31-32) All who have a passion for building community around farms and inspiring people to feel that they belong to the earth through the gifts of nature are invited to share experiences, questions, concerns, and hopes for the future. DemeterLOCAL Jim Fullmer and Elizabeth Candelario (Pimlico A) DemeterLOCAL is an education and small farm certification program of Demeter USA. Its purpose is to provide the resources and support needed for farmers, educators, students, and community members to develop Biodynamic farming and products within their regional foodshed. Recognizing that farmers themselves are the best teachers, the program utilizes the Demeter Farm Standard as a guide, and features an innovative low cost peer-to-peer certification assessment for farmers who sell their produce within 200 miles of their farm. Demeter’s goal is to have ten DemeterLOCAL chapters up and running within the next year. Farm-Based and Waldorf Educators Bente Goldstein and Erin Houlihan (Seneca) Members of the Farm-Based Educators Inspired by Anthroposophy (FBEIBA), as well as individuals involved in Waldorf education, will meet to discuss integrating biodynamics into children’s education and development. All educators will first meet together and then break into two conversation groups, one focused on farm-based education and the other focused on Waldorf schools. Farmers Working with Apprentices Cory Eichman (Belmont) Farmers and gardeners who are mentoring apprentices are invited to network with peers and explore ways to make the apprentice experience a better one for both mentors and apprentices. We will be sharing challenges and best practices and work together to help each of us develop our individual approaches to hosting apprentices. Fellowship of Preparation Makers Patricia Frazier (Cherokee) Members of the Fellowship of Preparation makers and oth-
ers actively involved in making biodynamic preparations are invited to discuss the current state of preparation making on the North American continent, how we can cultivate our inner selves in our work with preparations, and how preparation makers can support one another. Holistic Management and Biodynamics Kelly Mulville (Ballroom 24-25) Exciting potential exists in the synergistic combination of holistic management and biodynamics. This group will share experiences and discuss possibilities for continued learning and advancing of practices. Latin American Biodynamic Practitioners Walter Moora (Ballroom 34-35) Anyone working or living in Latin America is invited to discuss issues related to practicing biodynamics in the Central and South American contexts, especially the making and use of the biodynamic preparations in tropical and Equatorial climates. Permaculture and Biodynamics Susana Lein (Gulfstream) Meet with others interested in the interface between permaculture and biodynamics and discuss integrating principles and practices from both streams to aid in the development of holistic systems—the farm as a complete organism. Quality Testing and Quality Research Walter Goldstein and Sarah Weber (Ballroom 41-42) This is a meetup for farmers, consultants, scientists, and others who are working actively to evaluate the quality of soil, compost, and food or who are interested in doing so, using quantitative and qualitative methods. This session will include a report on the Quality Testing Network, which the Biodynamic Association is seeking to establish, as well as reports from others working in this field. We will also take time to explore deeper questions of what is quality and how one evaluates it. Urban and Community Gardeners and Farmers Karen Davis-Brown (Hialeah) Meet with gardeners and farmers from urban and suburban areas to share successes, challenges and questions—agricultural, cultural, social, and economic—related to growing food in these contexts.
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ARTISTIC ACTIVITIES Saturday 4:00-5:30 pm Cultivating Spirit: Inner Practice = Outer Work Martha Loving Orgain (Conference Theater) Combining art and science in the practice. Using hands-on art experience, Martha Loving will present the universal principles of light and darkness in relationship to nature. These laws of nature are incorporated in the art of veil painting by the methods of Liane Collot d’Herbois and in the medical practice of Collot Painting Therapy. These laws exist in the human being and in nature. All that is presented is for development of the individual and for cultivating our connections to the spiritual forces in nature. Drawing in charcoal and with colored pencils and wet-on-wet watercolor exercises will complement learning meditation in an easy way to develop your practice. Due to materials, this workshop will be limited to 20 participants. Dynamics of Work Movements: Movement Principles for Farmers and Those Who Work the Land Bill Keener (Oaks) Regardless of the activity or discipline, whether forking manure, pulling weeds, or just walking, there are certain universal principles inherent in the mastery of movement which can be taught, shared, and learned and are adaptable to any activity. Using principles and exercises from Spacial Dynamics and Bothmer Gymnastics, we will learn to move so that our bodies will not be worn down. We will explore how movement is initiated and where it begins. By learning that healthy movement is initiated outside the body, we have the ability to train our bodies to follow the proper gestures of work. We will touch on the best body mechanics to work without pain. Eurythmy: The Movements of Life Cynthia Hoven (Keeneland) Take your understanding of biodynamics to the next level and embody your spiritual practice! Through eurythmy, the movement practice created by Rudolf Steiner, we engage in meaning-filled, mindful movements that refresh and inspire us, build community, and help us deepen our sense of meaning, purpose, and connection. An in-depth experience of eurythmy opens our understanding for the basic concepts of biodynamics, including the etheric world, rhythms of the year and of life and death, the relationship of macrocosm and microcosm, and much more.
Sensing the Story Daphne Amory (Downs) Reading and understanding the story of nature as it is unfolding before us requires using our senses and being present. How do we sense deeper into nature so as to engage more fully with the story? In this workshop, we will dive into play with sensory imagination, developing the skills necessary to actively participate in the emerging story. Singing from the Inside Out Lorna Kohler (Derby) Each of us embodies a unique vocal instrument with the capacity to express the beauty and wisdom of body, mind, emotions, and spirit. This session will explore ways of teaching ourselves to sing with joy, ease, and confidence and to be fully present in our own voices while singing with others. Please drink water throughout the day and bring water to the workshop.
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PRESENTERS Presenter
Workshop
Daphne Amory Matias Baker Mary Berry Shabari Bird
Sensing the Story Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Our Agrarian Future Fermenting: Enhancing Human and Soil Health Weeds, What They Tell and How to Ferment Them for Fertilizers Biodynamic Winegrowing Young Biodynamic Farmers Innovative Farm Succession and Land Ownership Strategies Biodynamic Winegrowing Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy The Emerging Biodynamic Marketplace Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Biodynamic Education and the Tria Principia Forming and Dissolving: A Workshop for Educators Soil Health and Human Fertility Farming with Empathy Innovative Farm Succession and Land Ownership Strategies Keynote: Biodynamics and Health Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA Biodynamic Solutions to Pest Problems Hands-On with the Biodynamic Preparations Understanding and Using the Nine Biodynamic Preparations Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy Geomancy and the Health of the Biodynamic Organism A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives The Source of Healing in Plants, The Source of Healing in Gardens Compost Quality, Innovations, and Biodynamic Influences Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Impulse in North America Integrating Vegetable Seed Saving in Your CSA or Market Garden A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives Integrating Vegetable Seed Saving in Your CSA or Market Garden Composting as a Free Deed: Being and Becoming Hands-On with the Biodynamic Preparations Farming with the Demeter Biodynamic Standard Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA Why I Farm Biodynamically Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA Why I Farm Biodynamically Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy Understanding Health and Disease in Soil and Plants Understanding the Nature of the Vortex
Sarah Black Monique Blais John Bloom Joseph Brinkley Dana Burns, DVM Elizabeth Candelario Betsy Cashen, RD Jonathan Code Dawn Combs Jean-Paul Courtens
Hugh Courtney Matt Davis Karen Davis-Brown Jean David Derreumaux Steve Diver Megan Durney Cory Eichman Coree Entwistle Paul Entwistle Bruno Follador Patricia Frazier Jim Fullmer Janet Gamble Lincoln Geiger David Gershan, MD Bente Goldstein Walter Goldstein Jennifer Greene
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PRESENTERS Melissa Greer, DO Ulrich Hack Gunther Hauk Elizabeth Henderson Patrick Holden Craig Holdrege Ned Horton Cynthia Hoven Harald Hoven Jaime Irwin Daron “Farmer D� Joffe Tera Johnson Steven Johnson, DO Hubert Karreman, VMD Bill Keener Robert King Dennis Klocek Lorna Kohler Susan Kurz Susana Lein Hugh Lovel Martha Loving Orgain Philip Lyvers Lavinia McKinney Mac Mead Daphne Miller, MD Kelly Mulville
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Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Integrating the Biodynamic Preparations on a Large Farm Biodynamic Beekeeping The Spiritual Foundation for Biodynamics Terrestrial and Cosmic Nutrition Creating Fair Farms Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA Keynote: Making the Soil, Food, Health Connection Making the Soil, Food, Health Connection A Way of Knowing as a Way of Healing Working with a Goethean Approach to Biodynamic Education Biodynamic Winegrowing Eurythmy: The Movements of Life Plain Speaking the Language of Biodynamics The Spiritual Foundation for Biodynamics The Spiritual Foundation for Biodynamics Working with the Cosmic Rhythms and Planting Calendars Vines and Ovines Urban Biodynamic Farming for Healthy Food and Thriving Communities Securing Capital from Social Investors The Biodynamics of Health: The New Ecology Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Keynote: Biodynamics and Health CowSignals and Subtle Signs of Animal Health Health Strategies for Organic Livestock Dynamics of Work Movements Staying with It: The Rhythms of Animals, Ecology, and Economics Biodynamic Boot Camp for Gardeners Alchemical Principles of the Biodynamic Preparations Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Singing from the Inside Out Biodynamic Boot Camp for Gardeners No-Till Permaculture Systems for Staple Crop Production Permaculture in Practice at Salamander Springs Farm Origins, Development, and Modern Trends in Biodynamic Agriculture Pfeiffer Soil Testing Revisited Cultivating Spirit: Inner Practice = Outer Work Sensitizing Minerals, Plants, and Animals for Human Nutrition Transforming a Conventional Hog Farm Through Biodynamics Keynote: Biodynamics and Health Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Why I Farm Biodynamically Keynote: Human Health from the Ground Up Holistic Planned Grazing: Principles, Practice and Design The Synergy of Livestock on Farms, Orchards and Vineyards
PRESENTERS Lloyd Nelson Janey Newton Traci Partin Sarah Patterson John Peterson Jeff Poppen Laura Riccardi Lyvers Nicki Robb Rachel Schneider Steffen Schneider Henning Sehmsdorf Don Shaffer Tal Simchoni Cher Smith Deb Soule Tom Spaulding Will Stapp Andrew Stewart Elizabeth Sustick, RN Woody Tasch Mark Trela Robin Verson Leah Walker Sherry Wildfeuer Basil Williams, DO Eric Wooldridge
Hands-On with the Biodynamic Preparations Understanding and Using the Nine Biodynamic Preparations Field Day at Foxhollow Farm Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy Young Biodynamic Farmers Starting, Growing and Maintaining a CSA Young Biodynamic Farmers Building Biodynamic Soil Field Day at Long Hungry Creek Farm Merging Modern Methods and Old-Time Wisdom Field Day at Foxhollow Farm Keynote: Biodynamics and Health Farm-Based Education Inspired by Anthroposophy Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Impulse in North America Who Are the Animals Really? Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Impulse in North America Keynote: Biodynamics and Health The Economics of Sacred Agriculture Securing Capital from Social Investors Gardening with the Four Elements A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives The Medicinal Qualities and Healing Gifts of the Preparations The Source of Healing in Plants, The Source of Healing in Gardens Innovative Farm Succession and Land Ownership Strategies Biodynamic Winegrowing Young Biodynamic Farmers Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Securing Capital from Investors Questions and Conversation on Themes from the Conference A Woman’s Eye View of the Farm with the Radical Farmwives The Individuality of the Farm and the Human Being Working with the Cosmic Rhythms and Planting Calendars Bridging Biodynamic Agriculture and Anthroposophic Medicine Young Biodynamic Farmers Square Dance
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EXHIBITORS Exhibitors
Friday - Saturday, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Biplantol
Adonis Press and Social Self Anthroposophical Society in America Aurora Recording The Berry Center Camphill Communities of North America Celestial Planting Calendar Center for Crop Diversification Crofters Crossfields Institute Demeter USA EcoFarm Elemental Development Farmers Market by Overstock.com Great Lakes Sacred Essences Hawthorne Valley Farm Insight Garden Program Interrupcion Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics Kimberton Whole Foods Logosophia Mockingbird Meadows Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association Pendragon Specialties Quantum Agriculture Rancho del Gallo RSF Social Finance Skye Taylor Spikenard Farm and Honeybee Sanctuary SteinerBooks STIR
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Biplantol:
Homeopathic plant and soil amendment, imported from Germany.
For more information and distributorship opportunities, Web: bioplantimport.com Email: info@bioplantimport.com
Turtle Tree Seeds Uriel Pharmacy Waldorf School of Louisville Weleda W.S. Badger Company, Inc. Yggdrasil Foundation
P roud supporte r of the
I O DY N A M I C C O N F E R E N C E 2014 B Your family-owned and operated Greater Philadelphia Area Community Market
our locations: Kimberton 610.935.1444
Downingtown 610.873.8225
Ottsville 610.847.2419
Douglassville 610.385.1588
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New Release from Logosophia Press A Monk in the Bee Hive by Skye ann louise Taylor
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MEALS Conference Menu All meals served at the conference will feature local, organic, and biodynamic foods, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. See Schedule (pages 2-4) for meal and break times. A limited number of meals are available for purchase at the registration desk. With special thanks to our food and beverage donors (opposite page). Lunch — Thursday, November 13, 12:30 - 1:30 pm Kentucky Proud Vegetable Soup Hearty Grilled Cheese Gluten-Free Option: Gluten-Free Bread Grilled Cheese Vegan Option: Hummus and Veggie Sandwich Sweet Potato, Kale, and Beet Chips Warm Potato Salad Lunch — Friday, November 14, 12:30 - 1:30 pm Hearty Beef Stew with Potatoes and Veggies Veggie Option: Veggie Stew Vegan Option: Veggie Stew without Cheese Sour Cream and Shredded Cheese Steamed Brown Rice Root Veggie Slaw Gluten-Free Corn Bread with Honey and Butter Dinner — Friday, November 14, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Organic Artisan Greens with Shredded Carrots, Beets, and Sunflower Seeds with Dijon Vinaigrette Pork Sausage with Sauerkraut and Apples and Spicy Mustard Roasted Butternut Squash Rice Risotto
Transforming prisoners’ lives through connection to nature. www.insightgardenprogram.org 415-854-0067
Visit our booth at the conference!
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Sautéed Kale with Onions and Garlic Veggie Option: Roasted Butternut Squash Rice Risotto, Mediterranean Spiced Mushrooms on Polenta, Sautéed Kale with Onions and Garlic Vegan Option: Toasted Rice Risotto and Roasted Butternut Squash (No Cheese), Mediterranean Spiced Mushrooms on Polenta, Sautéed Kale with Onions and Garlic Rustic Bavarian Dark Bread and Gluten-Free Breads and Butter Lunch — Saturday, November 15, 12:30 - 1:30 pm Grilled Chicken Breast Stuffed with Corn Bread Stuffing with Cranberry Chutney Mashed Sweet and Russet Potatoes Brussels Sprouts Veggie Option: Stuffed Squash with Wild Mushroom, Cheese, and Wild Rice Filling, Brussels Sprouts Vegan Option: Stuffed Squash with Wild Mushroom and Wild Rice Filling (No Cheese), Brussels Sprouts Rustic Bread and Gluten-Free Bread Option with Butter Dinner — Saturday, November 15, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Spinach Salad with Chopped Egg and Warm Bacon Dressing Veggie/Vegan options: with Raspberry Vinaigrette Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles Green Beans Gluten-Free Option: Beef Stroganoff with Gluten-Free Noodles, Green Beans Veggie Option: Vegetable Lasagna with Marinara Sauce Vegan Option: Veggie Stroganoff with Egg Noodles, Green Beans Italian Bread with Butter
FOOD & BEVERAGE DONORS Thank you to our food and beverage donors
Northern Astro Calendar 2015 by Brian Keats with monthly stories & illustrations by Mary Stewart Adams & Patricia DeLisa To support individual research, facilitate biodynamic practice, learn naked-eye observation of the night sky, and celebrate the wonder of it all through starry imaginations built out of the celestial gesture each month.
$20 plus postage Available through: www.fairytalemoons.com for information contact: mary@fairytalemoons.com 231.838.8181 For the Goetheanum Mathematics and Astronomy Section.
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LOCAL FOOD TASTING Opening Celebration and Local Food Tasting Thursday, November 13, 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Sponsored by Farmers Market by Overstock.com The conference will open with a festive celebration featuring local foods, music, a silent auction, and lots of time to connect with old friends and new. A limited number of tickets are available for purchase at the Registration Desk. Station One Grass-Fed Cow Cheese Crackers (Gluten-Free Option) Apples Station Two Butternut Squash Soup (Vegan) Sweet Potato, Beet, and Kale Chips and Sour Cream Station Three Organic Spinach, Kale, and Beet Salad with Berry Vinaigrette (Vegan) Station Four Stone-Ground Grits (Vegan) with Add-Your-Own Sausage, Chicken, Tomato, Onions, or Peppers and Cream Sauce
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Station Five Biodynamic Pasta with Marinara Sauce (Vegan) and Meatballs Station Six Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Station Seven Mini Pear and Apple Tarts and Meringue Cookies Drinks Biodynamic Wines Graindrops Biodynamic Herbal Tea, Coffee, and Water
OHIO ECOLOGICAL FOOD AND FARM ASSOCIATION
Curious?
(614) 421-2022 • www.oeffa.org
100% Natural & Certified Organic Body Care • Family friendly business practices including childcare and babies at work program • Organic gardens to provide vegetables for the daily company organic lunch • Ecology Center providing workshops for community members in sustainable living practices
ORGANIC CERTIFICATION WORKSHOPS AND WEBINARS FARM TOURS ANNUAL CONFERENCE TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT
W.S. BADGER CO., INC. • badgerbalm.com
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PRACTICAL INFORMATION Children at the Conference Childcare Childcare and children’s activities in the Waldorf tradition will be led by our Childcare Coordinator Marianne Else. Marianne has years of experience as an Eurythmist, family coach, home schooling facilitator and artist. Childcare will be offered onsite at the Hyatt Regency in a secure room during the following times: Thursday, November 13: 8:30 am - 7:00 pm Friday, November 14: 8:30 am - 7:00 pm Saturday, November 15: 8:30 am - 7:00 pm Sunday, November 16: 8:30 am - 11:30 am There is no charge for childcare, but donations to support the time of the care providers are appreciated. Children must be at least three years old and fully toilet trained in order to participate in childcare. The room will be staffed with two care providers at all times. Parents must sign a liability release before leaving children in the childcare room. Children’s Activities Children participating in the childcare program will have access to a variety of Waldorf-inspired toys and free-play activities, such as a play kitchen, wooden toys, dress-up garments, games and other toys that foster imagination. In addition, we will have materials for children to engage in different art and creativity projects, including knitting, crocheting, painting, and drawing. Finally, Marianne will lead the children in eurythmy and will provide art lessons for the children. In order to ensure that all children are able to enjoy creative and social play we ask that you leave all electronic devices (iPads, iPods, video game players, etc) in your hotel room. However, children are welcome to bring a loved doll or snuggly. Children’s Meals If you pre-ordered child box meals, they will be delivered to the childcare room. You are also welcome to bring food for your child, as well as bring your own meals to the childcare room if you would like to eat with your child.
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Audio and Video Recordings
Aurora Recording will be recording on November 14-15. You may order DVDs of the keynotes and CDs or MP3s of the keynotes and most workshops—either separately or as a set. Order forms are available at Aurora’s table at the conference, or you may order afterwards through the link on our site at www.biodynamics.com/conference or by calling Aurora at (828) 944-0177.
Internet
The Hyatt offers wireless internet, with upgraded bandwidth available for a fee.
Message Board and Free Literature
A message board for conference attendees is located in the Prefunction room. Free literature tables are located on the first floor.
Quiet Reflection
The conference altar is located in Keeneland, which will also be available throughout the conference for quiet reflection, meditation, and movement.
Bookstore and Author Signings
SteinerBooks will be selling biodynamic and related books, calendars, and DVDs in the Prefunction room starting at noon on Thursday and continuing through 11:30 am on Sunday. A number of presenters will be signing books at the conference. Please see the schedule near the bookstore for the signing schedule.
Evaluations
We greatly appreciate your feedback on our conference evaluation forms. You will receive a paper form upon registration, but you may also fill it out online any time at www. biodynamics.com/conference/eval. And of course we’d love to hear from you at any point with thoughts or suggestions. Thank you! Biodynamic Association 1661 N. Water Street, Suite 307 Milwaukee, WI 53202 (262) 649-9212 info@biodynamics.com
Our Vision: To be the preferred supply chain partner in the specialty, natural & organic, and fresh product marketplace in North America. Learn more at KeHE.com
Château Maris Cru Minervois La Livinière, Languedoc, France “The Biodynamic Apostles of the Languedoc”. “Maris farms biodynamically and produces very good to outstanding wines”. One of the “Top Producer confronting climate change head-on” “The wines are impressive across the board and offer serious levels of fruit and texture, while staying fresh, balanced and very drinkable. They also represent superb values.” The Wine Advocate. “Perhaps THE most dedicated organic/biodynamic winery, Chateau Maris takes every possible step to work as naturally as possible. The winery buildings are built of sustainable hemp, vineyards are worked by horse and plow, organic and biodynamic practices in the cellar and vineyard all are geared towards growing the healthiest fruit possible with the best expression of their local terroir in the sunny south of France. In addition their wines are exceptional values!” Chris Cree, Master of Wine.
www.chateaumaris.com
Available at Zachys.com
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THE BIODYNAMIC ASSOCIATION Become a member of the Biodynamic Association and read more about Farming for Health in the Fall 2014 issue of our Biodynamics journal Members also receive online access to: • • • •
the last four issues of the journal supplementary articles handouts and slides from selected conference workshops the Biodynamic Directory for members
To join: visit our membership table at the conference, call us at (262) 649-9212 x2, or join online at www.biodynamics.com/join. The Biodynamic Association (BDA) is a nonprofit association of individuals, groups, and organizations who are committed to rethinking agriculture through healthy food, healthy soil, and healthy farms. Founded in 1938, the BDA is considered to be the oldest sustainable agriculture organization in North America.
Visit SteinerBooks, the official bookseller for the Biodynamic Association, in the Prefunction area at the conference, and shop online at www.biodynamics.com/_webstore.
Thank you for visiting SteinerBooks through our website, as a percentage of all resulting sales will go to support our work!
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THE BIODYNAMIC ASSOCIATION Biodynamic Scholarship Fund Donors Thanks to these generous donors and many other individuals, we were able to award over $20,000 in scholarships to help 114 young farmers, apprentices, educators, and others to participate in the 2014 Biodynamic Conference. Colorado Farm Development Initiative Council of Anthroposophical Organizations Geary Rimmer Vincent Wolf Foundation High Wind Association Foundation Owsley Brown Charitable Foundation RSF Social Finance George L. Shields Foundation Ann West Jim Willetts Jean-Paul Courtens Diane Henke Jean Flood Susan Kurz Anthony Fleischmann Ted Lemon David Gershan
Board of Directors Daphne Amory, Daphne Amory Consulting, California Jean-Paul Courtens, Roxbury Farm, New York Janet Gamble (Vice President and Secretary), Turtle Creek Gardens, Wisconsin Paula Manalo Gaska (Treasurer), Mendocino Organics, California Greg Georgaklis, Farmers to You, Vermont Susan Kurz, Rhode Island Steffen Schneider (President), Hawthorne Valley Farm, New York
Staff Rebecca Briggs, Communications Coordinator Thea Maria Carlson, Director of Programs Robert Karp, Executive Director Zachary Krebs, Technology Advisor Penny Molina, Conference Coordinator Hannahrose Rand, Conference Assistant Lucy Saunders, Membership Coordinator
Biodynamic Association Board of Directors Susan Kurz, Greg Georgaklis, Paula Manalo Gaska, Steffen Schneider, Daphne Amory, Jean-Paul Courtens, and Janet Gamble
Erin Schneider, Program Assistant Rebecca Watterson, Accounting Assistant Sarah Weber, Research Program Coordinator
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SPONSORS Thank you to all our generous sponsors
Hideaway Farms
The Berry Center
Spikenard Farm Honeybee Sanctuary
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