Field Day: Blackbrook Farm

Come and be inspired by a tour of Blackbrook Farm, operated by our own WiWiC Conservation Coach Ayla Dodge and her husband. 

Hear and see firsthand how they are overcoming unique challenges presented by their farm’s sandy soils in both their vegetable operation and pasture establishment for the livestock they have integrated into their operation. 

Ayla will also share how they have worked with the NRCS to implement conservation on their farm by establishing some pollinator habitat and using cover crops.

All women farmers, landowners and conservationists from Polk, Barron, Dunn and surrounding counties are welcome to attend-- whatever your background, from beginners to experts!

Resource Experts Attending:  

Ayla Dodge, Blackbrook Farm

Wisconsin Women in Conservation Host:  Stephanie Coffman & Sarah Broadfoot, Marbleseed

Snack provided

Location:  Blackbrook Farm

Ayla with her husband James run a 140 acre farm outside of Amery, Wisconsin, that has a very scenic and diverse mixture of tillable land, pasture, woods, a pond and a stream running through it all. Their farm is home to pasture-raised hogs, a small herd of Scottish Highland cattle and pastured chickens for meat!  These animals help them to improve the soil through their manure as well as rooting and pecking the ground. They love to eat quack grass and veggie scraps from their organic vegetable CSA operation!  They value this composting cycle that keeps inputs lower, builds soil and gives the best life to these healthy animals. In 2022, they will be growing about 4-5 acres of Certified Organic vegetable crops, with the remaining acres in either organic alfalfa hay, pollinator habitat, cover crop, fallow, or home to their animals.

Event Details:

• Event is free to attend but registration is required and space is limited.
• All women, or anyone who identifies as such in a significant way, are welcome to attend – from  landowners to farmers to conservationist enthusiasts – whatever your background, from beginners to experts! Our WiWiC events follow a Learning Circle model, with ample time and a safe space for story sharing, networking and collaborative learning. We all have something to both share and learn together.
• Dress for the weather.  Bring a sunhat, sunscreen and good walking shoes.
• This event is outdoors and no masks are required. Social distancing is encouraged.
• Photos will be taken at this event and used for educational purposes only by WiWiC and the partner groups.  If you do not wish to have your picture taken, let the on-site WiWiC host know.
• WiWiC is a family-friendly space and you are welcome to bring your children.  We will have some independent kids activities available.

About Wisconsin Women in Conservation

WiWiC is a state-wide collaborative effort led by the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute in partnership with Wisconsin Farmers Union, Renewing the Countryside and Marbleseed (formerly MOSES).  A three-year multi-faceted project funded by the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), WiWiC brings together Wisconsin women landowners to connect and learn about conservation practices, resources, and funding opportunities.