CASSADAGA — The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County’s Agriculture program will host a pasture walk hosted by Doug and Colleen Aldrich in Cassadaga from noon to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 29.

The walk is suitable for those interested in learning more about improving soil health, rotational grazing and direct marketing of meat and eggs to consumers. The Doug and Colleen Aldrich Farm is located at 2841 Tarbox Road, Cassadaga. A light lunch will be provided, with donations accepted that day to help cover the cost of lunch. Pre-registration is required by contacting Lisa Kempisty at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County at 664-9502, ext. 203 or emailing ljk4@cornell.edu by June 27.

Doug and Colleen Aldrich use manure compost to fertilize their pastures. They manage 200 acres of grass pastures, using rotational grazing, raising 70 dairy heifers and 20 beef animals, including cow-calf pairs, heifers and steers. The Aldriches have developed a high tensile perimeter fencing system, dividing the eight pasture lots using poly wire as temporary fencing for the interior of the paddocks. Water hydrants every 300 feet provide water to tubs for the livestock in each of the paddocks.

Discussion leaders will include:

¯ Rob Halbohm, water quality technician with the Chautauqua County Soil and Water Conservation District, will lead a discussion on the Pennsylvania Soil Quality Assessment worksheet, in which all participants will receive a copy to evaluate their own farm’s soil health. The assessment is a tool that any producer can use in the field to evaluate the condition of their soils, and begin the development of a plan to improve soil quality.

¯ Katelyn Walley-Stoll, farm business management educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension – Chautauqua County, will lead a discussion on local marketing, covering the opportunities and challenges associated with direct marketing products to consumers, focusing on meat and egg sales. Printed resources will be made available, and ideas for local marketing initiatives will be covered.

Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences and questions throughout the pasture walk. To maintain biosecurity, wear footwear that can be easily disinfected at the farm or wear plastic boots that fit over one’s boots/shoes that will be provided.