Marbleseed Conference 2026 - Session

Sometimes we inherit fence, sometimes we have to start from scratch–fencing for livestock can be done in a lot of different ways. Once it is established, maintenance is ongoing. If you are willing to do some of that work, this workshop is for you.

Randy will cover:
• making high tensile wire connections and splicing wire
• handling portable polywire, step-in posts, and reels
• purchasing solar chargers, gates, cutout switches, and testers
• designing physical barriers such as corrals and handling facilities

You will leave with tips on maintaining a fence that’s right for you. Come with questions!

Harvest and post-harvest processing of small grains is labor intensive. The right tools can make production more efficient, profitable, and accessible for farms of any size.

Presenter Sam Bibby will review various pieces of equipment used in small-grain production, from combines and fanning mills to grain screeners and bagging equipment. We'll work hands-on with several pieces of equipment and discuss when and why you might use each one. Sam will share practical insights on setup, maintenance, and matching equipment to your scale of production.

Session description coming

Let's talk all things elderberry and black currant! Lily Hislop, the Savanna Institute's elderberry and black currant researcher, shares her work with these two up-and-coming crops, including the participatory breeding research she brings to working farms. Then, Mark Villers of Homestead 36 in Sturgeon Bay, WI, talks about his experiences farming these two crops, including plant sourcing, planting, maintenance, harvesting, and marketing.

This presentation is for anyone thinking about growing elderberries or currants, or who has an interest in plant breeding research. Expect to come out of this session with both academic and practical knowledge of these plants.

Are you frustrated that the government seems out of touch with your needs? Your elected officials need to hear your voice. They can be educated, and they're truly interested in hearing from individual farmers!

Join this roundtable to learn talking points and strategies to help you write effective letters and emails. Become more comfortable making direct calls. Consider hosting policy-related events at your farm. Once you are known to them, you can become a resource to your legislators when they are considering programs and funding.

Building healthy, resilient soils starts on the farm! In this panel, experienced growers will share practical strategies for generating on-farm fertility and reducing purchased inputs without sacrificing productivity. From integrating cover crops and green manures to managing livestock, composting systems, and nutrient cycling, panelists will highlight approaches that strengthen soil health, lower costs, and increase longterm self-reliance.