Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets The Vermont Cheese Council invites you to the 2026 Artisan Cheesemakers Conference on May 1 in Rutland.
Storytelling is the theme of this year’s conference, with a day full of in-person programming. While content is specifically geared toward cheesemakers, the conference is open to all: makers, mongers, chefs, retailers, industry folk, and food producers of all flavors!
Among the questions addressed in this year's conference will be the following:
- How do we guide cheese from farm to plate?
- How do we share stories in a compelling way, across a range of audiences?
- How do we connect the dots between flavor and provenance?
Join this year's conference for a full day exploring the stories, flavors, and flair behind a "successful" cheese.
Advanced registration is required. Space is limited, so don't delay!
Economic Services for Vermont Agriculture
Farmers are navigating a challenging economy and climate conditions right now. To help, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets has compiled this resource page with available funding and technical assistance opportunities that may support farms or agricultural businesses. This page brings together programs and resources from state, federal, and private organizations in one place to make them easier to find and explore.
View the resources
Vermont Maple Syrup and Maple Products Contest
The Vermont Maple Syrup and Maple Products Contest, which is held annually at the Vermont Maple Festival, is the largest maple contest in Vermont. The winners of this contest are recognized as having made the “Best of Vermont,” a laudable achievement in a state already known for the outstanding quality of its maple products. Vermont maple producers are invited to submit their products to the contest. Entries are due by April 20.
Learn more
Climate Change and Agriculture in Vermont
Vermont’s climate is changing, and farmers are directly experiencing these changes. Past climate trends, current observations, and future projections are listed in UVM Extension's recently published Climate Change and Agriculture in Vermont Fact Sheet. These can help Vermont farmers and service providers understand trends, identify risk, recognize potential opportunities, and make informed plans for the future.
View the fact sheet
Soil Health and Equipment Field Day
Join the Connecticut River Watershed Farmers Alliance (CRWFA) for their Soil Health and Equipment Field Day on April 11 in Fairlee.
The event will include demonstrations of equipment that is available for farmers to rent, including two different strip-tillers, a three-shank ripper, a roller crimper, and no-till seeders. Come for the snacks if not the tractor toys.
Learn more
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View the VAAFM Grants Calendar
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
116 State St. Montpelier, VT 05620
https://agriculture.vermont.gov
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