Fertile Ground was a free, interactive workshop designed for organic, transitional, and small-scale growers. Participants learned how to deepen soil health, reduce input costs, and design fertility systems that are resilient and biologically alive. The workshop blended soil science, composting essentials, and regional resource mapping. Attendees applied the learning directly to their own operations, drafting personalized whole-farm fertility plans. Optional one-on-one follow-up consultations with permaculture designer Grant Depoy were also available.
Here is a summary of what took place during the Fertile Ground Workshop — Whole-Farm Fertility Systems Design & Management on Sunday, December 7, 2025:
12:00 – 12:15 PM: Participants arrived, checked in, and were welcomed with networking and an overview of the day’s schedule.
12:15 – 1:00 PM: Over lunch, the Food Works Team (with Blayne) facilitated a session on regional fertility resources and opportunities, including a segment from TOPP.
1:00 – 1:40 PM: Amanda Weidhuner from SIU Soil Science presented on soil foundations, covering science, soil health, and function.
1:40 – 2:20 PM: A round table discussion on on-farm fertility systems was facilitated by the Food Works Team.
2:20 – 2:35 PM: Attendees enjoyed a 15-minute break.
2:35 – 3:15 PM: Talib Mark Fletter of Dayempur Farm provided a farm case insight, sharing real-world experiences.
3:15 – 4:50 PM: Grant Depoy from The Permaculture Project led a mini design charrette where participants built their own farm fertility blueprints.
4:50 – 5:00 PM: The day closed with final takeaways, evaluations, planning packet distribution, and an opportunity to sign up for follow-up.
