Quantum Based Agriculture works with the circuitry of the soil/plant system. Most people understand that soil minerals contain positive and negative charges. But QBA goes beyond simple charges to the interactions of all the vibrations that exist in soils, plants and the atmosphere.

Phil Callahan did extensive research on the vibrational energy of plants, soils and animals. A few theories and systems exist for managing the energetic system of agriculture.

Biodynamics is the best known method as described by Rudolph Steiner in 1924. The use of homeopathy is also becoming more widespread in agriculture. 

Although we are only beginning to understand the importance and power of this aspect of soil management, we believe it is essential to consider the energetic component in your soil management plan and start to understand Quantum Based Agriculture.

This will be an introduction to these concepts looking at various applications and practices.

9:30am - 1pm

Cost: FREE

We have a fantastic short day planned to look at Spring Fertility Management. Tracey from Homepathic Farm Services, and Steve from Chaos Springs will be joining us.
Matt Gallagher from Asure Quality will also be here with an update on the National Organics Standard with some key changes and how they might affect us on farm.

 Lunch will be provided.

Please still ‘purchase’ a free ticket so we know how many lunch numbers etc.

 We encourage you to bring someone who isn’t a member, maybe someone who is thinking of converting to organics.

Cost: $20 or Free for ODPG Members

This a practical foodweb workshop to supply the participants with the skills to conduct qualitative assessments on their compost teas or compost inoculum.

It includes training on how to use your small microscope and recognition of the following groups of organisms: bacteria, fungi, protozoa and nematodes.

Attendees are supplied with a manual describing in detail the workings of their microscope, colour prints of microbes and qualitative assessment template/sheets.

This day course is primarily aimed at first time users; farmers making their own compost inoculums or teas, and input suppliers producing inoculum on a commercial scale.

The foodweb workshop training is a hands on experience therefore each student must supply their own microscope with the following specifications: minimum 3 objectives (4x, 10x, 40x magnification) A Binocular is recommended. Two 10x eyepieces. Light source and adjustable light condenser. Fine and course focus ability. Fully mechanical stage. Some microscopes interface with computer and/or cameras. These microscopes are easily obtainable in NZ and range in cost from $750.00 onwards.

Cost: $350 plus GST

Review of soil biology and their functions

• Understanding the carbon cycle

• Principles of thermal composting and vermi composting

• Compost pile types and construction

• Utilizing farm resources

• Recipes for optimum composting –diversity is the Key

• Monitoring and maintaining compost piles

• Assessing compost quality

• Equipment Options

• Site Selection and Layout

• Technical Tools

• Methods of application

Course Tutor Steve Erickson | Chaos Springs

Morning & Afternoon tea provided, bring your lunch

Cost: $250.

There are many different theories on soil and farm management. This workshop will explore the systems we have implemented over the past 18 years here at Chaos Springs which include;

Precise Composting Methods

Farm Specific Plant Extracts

Appropriate Crop Rotations

Accurate Grazing Management

Energetic Systems

This introductions to these methods will include an indoor explanation of each technique and a farm tour looking at the results.

Cost : $80

Tutor: Steve Erickson

Morning tea provided bring your lunch

This one day workshop will include

What is Biochar?

How do you make it?

Uses and benefits

Kiln types and scales

Application methods and rates

The Workshop will be run by Shakēd From and Dr Pranoy Pal.

Pranoy Pal has over 10 years as a skilled scientist and manager and is highly experienced in the best practices of kiwifruit production. He has Bachelors and Masters degrees in Agricultural Science, Chemistry and Horticulture and a PhD in Soil Science Systems. He has been actively involved in Biochar trials in Kiwifruit and written several papers on the subject.

Shakēd From Shakēd is a gardener and community organizer, working in the fields of permaculture, forest gardening, waste minimization, and social, environmental and Tiriti justice. Since 2013, Shakēd has been making, using and teaching about biochar as a way to mitigate climate change, increase animal health, and build soil fertility and resilience, at backyard and farm scales.

 The day will be a combination of indoor information and a practical demonstration of making biochar in two different systems. More information will be distributed on registration.

Morning tea provided, bring your lunch

Cost - $80.00 register here