{"id":9447,"date":"2025-12-09T14:07:33","date_gmt":"2025-12-09T19:07:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/?page_id=9447"},"modified":"2026-04-27T12:03:15","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T16:03:15","slug":"ycfnspeakerseries2026","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/ycfnspeakerseries2026\/","title":{"rendered":"York County Farmers&#8217; Network Speaker Series 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<h4><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9452 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"317\" height=\"317\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-105x105.png 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-317x317.png 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-423x423.png 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-634x634.png 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo-32x32.png 32w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/YCFNlogo.png 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,317px\" \/>Upcoming Workshops and Programs<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Thursday, January 08, 2026 <\/strong>Composting and Its Utilization<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thursday, February 19, 2026<\/strong>\u00a0Protecting What Matters: A Practical Look at Farm Insurance and Risk Management<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thursday, February 26, 2026 <\/strong>Basics of Greenhouse Technology<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thursday, March 05, 2026\u00a0<\/strong>Non-Thermal Seed Treatment Solutions for Organic Farming Systems<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thursday, March 19, 2026 <\/strong>Build a Better Business Workshops \u2013 York County<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thursday, April 09, 2026<\/strong> How to Develop a Marketing Strategy for Your Farm Business<\/li>\n<li><strong>Saturday, April 11, 2026 <\/strong>Tree Pruning Workshop<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wednesday, April 29, 2026 <\/strong>Staying Safe and Working Strong: Practical Injury Prevention and Adaptive Tools for Farmers<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thursday, May 07, 2026 <\/strong>Maine Agricultural Mediation Program: \u201cA Healthy Farm Is Nothing Without a Healthy Farmer\u201d<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thursday, June 25, 2026 <\/strong>York County Farmers&#8217; Network Strawberry Social<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Registration is required<\/strong>, with a\u00a0<strong>sliding scale fee<\/strong> ($0-$15) per session.<\/p>\n<p>Unless noted otherwise these workshops are<strong> located at the York County Cooperative Extension Office at 45 Kennebunk Road, Alfred ME 04002 and include dinner<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9463 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Nick-Rowley-201x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"201\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Nick-Rowley-201x300.jpg 201w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Nick-Rowley-94x140.jpg 94w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Nick-Rowley.jpg 268w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,201px\" \/>Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Composting and Its Utilization<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Nicholas Rowley,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:nicholas.rowley@maine.edu\">nicholas.rowley@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Compost is a popular soil amendment that supports healthier crops, stronger soils, and more resilient growing systems. By transforming everyday organic materials into a nutrient-rich resource, composting reduces waste while closing the loop on the farm and in the home garden. This workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of the composting process\u2014from understanding the science behind decomposition to identifying the right mix of materials for successful composting. Attendees will explore practical methods for managing compost, troubleshooting common issues, and incorporating finished compost into soils for maximum agronomic benefit. This session is valuable for both commercial producers seeking to improve soil structure and yields, and home gardeners interested in sustainable practices.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9465 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Thea-Champlin-248x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"248\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Thea-Champlin-248x300.jpg 248w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Thea-Champlin-105x127.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Thea-Champlin-317x383.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Thea-Champlin-423x511.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Thea-Champlin-634x766.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Thea-Champlin.jpg 736w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,248px\" \/><\/strong><strong>Date:\u00a0Thursday, February 19, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Protecting What Matters: A Practical Look at Farm Insurance and Risk Management<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Thea Champlin,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:Thea.Champlin@american-national.com\">Thea.Champlin@american-national.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Join local Farm Family agent, Thea Champlin, for a down-to-earth look at farm insurance and risk management. With years of experience working on horse farms, Thea\u2014owner of The Champlin Agency\u2014shares real-life stories and simple, practical strategies to help farmers protect what matters most and keep their operations resilient.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-9066 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-300x266.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"212\" height=\"188\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-300x266.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-1024x907.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-768x680.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-1536x1361.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-105x93.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-317x281.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-423x375.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-634x562.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-846x750.jpg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-951x843.jpg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806-1268x1123.jpg 1268w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2024\/03\/IMG_6806.jpg 1692w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,212px\" \/>Date:\u00a0Thursday, February 26, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Basics of Greenhouse Technology<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Ankit K. Singh,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:ankit.singh@maine.edu\">ankit.singh@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A beginner-friendly workshop introducing the fundamentals of greenhouse technology for Maine growers. Topics include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Types of greenhouse structures and materials<\/li>\n<li>Heating, cooling, and ventilation systems<\/li>\n<li>Basic automation and environmental controls<\/li>\n<li>Common challenges and low-cost solutions for small and mid-size farms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The session also covers how greenhouse systems can extend the growing season, improve crop quality, and support farm profitability.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9461 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Gulsun-Akdemir-285x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"285\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Gulsun-Akdemir-285x300.jpg 285w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Gulsun-Akdemir-105x111.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Gulsun-Akdemir-317x334.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Gulsun-Akdemir.jpg 380w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,285px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Date: \u00a0Thursday<\/strong><strong>, March 5, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Non-Thermal Seed Treatment Solutions for Organic Farming Systems<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Gulsun Akdemir,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:gulsun.akdemir@maine.edu\">gulsun.akdemir@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Ensuring high-quality, pathogen-free seed is essential for organic crop production, yet organic standards limit conventional chemical treatments. This seminar highlights emerging non-thermal, non-chemical sanitation methods\u2014particularly pulsed electric fields (PEF) and ozone-based technologies. Participants will learn how PEF disrupts microbial cells through electroporation, and how ozone provides rapid microbial inactivation without harmful residues. Both approaches show promise in reducing bacterial and fungal pathogens while maintaining seed vigor and improving germination. This session equips organic growers with scientific insights and actionable guidance for implementing innovative seed-treatment solutions that align with organic certification.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9466 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Jason-Ensti-200x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Jason-Ensti-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Jason-Ensti-93x140.png 93w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Jason-Ensti.png 288w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,200px\" \/><strong>Date: \u00a0Thursday, March 19, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Build a Better Business Workshops \u2013 York County<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Dr. Jason Entsminger, <a href=\"mailto:jason.entsminger@maine.edu\">jason.entsminger@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A hands-on workshop series for business owners seeking practical tools and new insights to strengthen and grow their operations. Content includes financial modeling, business strategy mapping, resilience planning, and cultivating a growth mindset. Offered in York County beginning at 1:00 PM, with refreshments and an early dinner included. Participants may choose a half-day or full-day format. Thanks to York County Executive Committee funding, this $100 workshop is subsidized to $25. Attendees will leave with actionable steps, meaningful connections, and a clearer path to business growth.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9459 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Brett-Johnson-300x285.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Brett-Johnson-300x285.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Brett-Johnson-105x100.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Brett-Johnson-317x301.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Brett-Johnson-423x401.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Brett-Johnson.jpg 468w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,300px\" \/><strong>Date: \u00a0Thursday, April 9, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> How to Develop a Marketing Strategy for Your Farm Business<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Brett Johnson, \u00a0<a href=\"mailto:brett.w.johnson@maine.edu\">brett.w.johnson@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A practical workshop led by Sustainable Agriculture and Farm Business Management Educator Brett Johnson. Participants will explore best practices in farm marketing, including market research, developing a customer profile, and creating a marketing strategy that captures more value and supports long-term profitability. Content is appropriate for both beginning and experienced producers, with the goal of helping participants build a functional marketing plan.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9464 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Renae-Moran-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Renae-Moran-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Renae-Moran-105x70.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Renae-Moran-317x211.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Renae-Moran-423x282.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Renae-Moran.jpg 564w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,300px\" \/><strong>Date:\u00a0Saturday, April 11, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Tree Pruning Workshop<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Snell Family Farm<br \/>\n1000 River Rd.<br \/>\nBuxton, Maine 04093<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Renae Moran,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:rmoran@maine.edu\">rmoran@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Renae Moran will demonstrate pruning techniques and teach the principles of pruning fruit trees.\u00a0 The class will include a discussion of different strategies of pruning that can improve fruiting and manage tree size.\u00a0 There are many ways to shape and prune a tree, so come and learn about what works best for your orchard.<\/p>\n<div>Check out our page on fruit trees:<\/div>\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/fruit\/growing-fruit-trees-in-maine\/pruning\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/fruit\/growing-fruit-trees-in-maine\/pruning\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1767704897947000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2LDe37RX8Jr5-IryOxlKjK\">Pruning &#8211; Cooperative Extension: Tree Fruits &#8211; University of Maine Cooperative Extension<\/a><\/div>\n<p>Snow date: April 12, 2026.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9458 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Bella-Russo.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"163\" height=\"206\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Bella-Russo.jpg 136w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Bella-Russo-105x133.jpg 105w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 163px) 100vw, 163px\" \/><strong>Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Staying Safe and Working Strong: Practical Injury Prevention and Adaptive Tools for Farmers<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Bella Russo (Maine AgrAbility), <a href=\"mailto:isabella.russo1@maine.edu\">isabella.russo1@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/umaine-extension.formtitan.com\/ftproject\/events?eventid=a1cUy000004ilyb\"><strong>Register here!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Maine AgrAbility will present and demonstrate assistive technologies and adaptive tools for use on small-scale farms and in gardens. Participants will learn about tools and ergonomic practices that increase productivity, reduce pain, and support mobility. Physical tools will be available for demonstration, and participants are encouraged to ask questions. Information about the Maine AgrAbility program will also be shared.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9462 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Lucy-Wess-192x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"192\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Lucy-Wess-192x300.jpg 192w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Lucy-Wess-90x140.jpg 90w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/12\/Lucy-Wess.jpg 256w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,192px\" \/><strong>Date:\u00a0Thursday, May 7, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> Maine Agricultural Mediation Program: \u201cA Healthy Farm Is Nothing Without a Healthy Farmer\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker:<\/strong> Lucy Wess, <a href=\"mailto:lucille.wess@maine.edu\">lucille.wess@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/umaine-extension.formtitan.com\/ftproject\/events?eventid=a1cUy000004im53\">Register Here<\/a>!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Maine Agricultural Mediation Program (MAMP), part of UMaine Extension\u2019s Health &amp; Wellness Programs, supports farmers, fishermen, food system workers, teams, and families through difficult conversations and conflict resolution. MAMP assists with interpersonal and business-related conflicts, navigation of USDA-related issues, and building confidence with personal finances. The program focuses on sustainable, self-built solutions to strengthen farm operations and wellbeing.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<figure id=\"9524\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9524 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/02\/Bill-an-Anna-Spiller-183x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"183\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/02\/Bill-an-Anna-Spiller-183x300.jpg 183w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/02\/Bill-an-Anna-Spiller-85x140.jpg 85w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/02\/Bill-an-Anna-Spiller-317x520.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/02\/Bill-an-Anna-Spiller-423x693.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/york\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/02\/Bill-an-Anna-Spiller.jpg 488w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,183px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bill and Anna Spiller have been raising crops on this 130-acre property in Maine since 1967. They also farm another piece five miles away, on land that has been in Bill&#8217;s family since 1894.<br \/>Photo Credit: Nemeth, Tibor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><strong>Date: \u00a0Thursday, June 25, 2026 <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>6:00 PM &#8211; 8:00 PM<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> Spiller Farm, 85 Spiller Farm Ln, Wells, ME 04090<\/p>\n<p><strong>Title:<\/strong> \u00a0 &#8220;When Agriculture and Conservation Connects &#8211; Securing a Future for Local Food Production.&#8221; The Third Annual YCFN Strawberry Social<\/p>\n<p>This event will be held in collaboration with the\u00a0<b>Great Works Regional Land Trust<\/b>. The event will be limited to\u00a0<b>80 participants<\/b>, with registration offered on a first-come, first-served basis and a\u00a0<b>$5 registration fee<\/b>. We emphasize that the strawberries are from Spiller farm, the biscuits are handmade, and dinner will be provided.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/umaine-extension.formtitan.com\/ftproject\/events?eventid=a1cUy000005WP21\">Register Here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Speaker: Bill and Anna Spiller<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n<div dir=\"ltr\">Bill&#8217;s story is exceptionally compelling. He has been farming here since 1967. He know every bump and gully on his land. He and Anna know the wildlife that depend on these acres. He has been innovative in his ag practices- doing PYOs before PYOs were a thing and building an on-site market.. He donates food to food pantries- thus sharing the bounty his land produces. He wanted to see his farm continue beyond his ownership to produce local food for local people and he committed to that idea by selling a conservation easement. This is where the past shaped the present and meets the future. There are few things that are more compelling than this.<\/div>\n<div dir=\"ltr\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"ltr\">This is an opportunity for the farmers within the farmer&#8217;s network and the members that have supported GWRLT&#8217;s conservation efforts to hear and celebrate this commitment. This is also a chance for your farmers to see they have support and respect from a broader public.<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Upcoming Workshops and Programs Thursday, January 08, 2026 Composting and Its Utilization Thursday, February 19, 2026\u00a0Protecting What Matters: A Practical Look at Farm Insurance and Risk Management Thursday, February 26, 2026 Basics of Greenhouse Technology Thursday, March 05, 2026\u00a0Non-Thermal Seed Treatment Solutions for Organic Farming Systems Thursday, March 19, 2026 Build a Better Business Workshops [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":232,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-9447","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>York County Farmers&#039; 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