In this guided tour of Gorman Heritage Farm, the farm team will showcase the sustainable soil health practices that support the farm's productivity and environmental stewardship. This tour will give participants a comprehensive look at the various methods we use to improve and maintain soil health, which is vital to our farming practices.
This event is designed for farmers, gardeners, landowners, students, and anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and soil health. Whether you're new to soil health practices or looking to deepen your knowledge, this tour offers valuable insights for all levels of experience. Guests must purchase admission to the farm, unless they are GHF members or Evendale residents. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children aged 3-17 and $5 for seniors. Children under 3 are free.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore the following key features of the farm:
3-Bin Compost System: We’ll explain how our 3-bin compost system works to recycle organic waste into nutrient-rich compost that supports soil fertility.
Market Garden: A walk-through of our market garden will highlight the soil health practices we employ, including crop rotation, cover crops, no tillage, and organic fertilization techniques.
Windrow Compost: Participants will see and learn about the process of creating and maintaining windrow compost.
Farm Equipment: A discussion of the tools and equipment we use, such as a no-till drill, roller crimper, and compost spreader, and how they help us maintain soil health while minimizing disturbance to the land.
Crop Fields and Cover Crops: A tour of our crop fields will demonstrate how we integrate cover crops into our rotation to prevent erosion, improve soil organic matter, and promote biodiversity.
Soil Water Infiltration Test: We’ll conclude the tour with a demonstration of a soil infiltration test to show the importance of soil structure and its impact on water retention and runoff.
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9:30 a.m. | Attendees will meet in the Interpretive Center at Gorman Heritage Farm and depart on the tour.
9:30-9:45 a.m. | Tour the cut flower garden, children’s garden, and a 3-bin compost.
9:45-10:15 a.m. | Tour the Market Garden for a walk-through and highlight of the market garden soil health practices
10:15-10:20 | Explore the windrow compost system.
10:20-10:35 | See and learn about the equipment used in the crop fields to preserve soil structure and health.
10:35-11 | Tour the crop fields, learn about benefits of cover crops and no/low-till practices, and see a water infiltration test demonstration.
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This is a fully walking tour that takes place on paved, gravel, and dirt pathways. There is some rough terrain. Guests must purchase admission to the farm, unless they are GHF members or Evendale residents. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children aged 3-17 and $5 for seniors. Children under 3 are free.
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Amanda Hanger: ahanger@gormanfarm.org | (513) 563-6663