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Open Farm Day
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: July 28, 2024
Location: Statewide
Event Type: Special Event
We celebrate Maine agriculture year-round, and Open Farm Day is an extra special day to visit a farm and discover more ways to enjoy farm products year-round! Maine's Open Farm Day gives visitors the chance to explore host farms throughout the state on the fourth Sunday in July rain or shine. Please visit RealMaine.com to learn more about this special invitation to see Maine agriculture where it happens, get tips for a good visit, and find a list of participating farms.
Contact Email: ACFOpenFarmDay@maine.gov
Website: https://www.realmaine.com/
Houlton Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: July 18, 2024 - July 21, 2024
Location: Houlton, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A small fair featuring livestock, crafts, midway and state entertainment.
Website: http://www.houltonfair.org/
Ossipee Valley Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: July 11, 2024 - July 14, 2024
Location: South Hiram, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Old-fashion fair, unique exhibit halls, lots of livestock, midway, drag racing and animal pull events.
Website: http://www.ossipeevalleyfair.com/
Waterford World's Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: July 19, 2024 - July 21, 2024
Location: North Waterford, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A small family oriented agricultural fair, featuring local vendors, entertainment and livestock. Old MacDonald's Barn full of animals to touch, outside stage with local talent, demonstrations & livestock exhibits
Website: http://www.waterfordworldsfair.org/
Pittston Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: June 20, 2024 - June 23, 2024
Location: Pittston, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Small, family-oriented country fair. Midway, animal pulling events, children's games, Strawberry Festival.
Website: http://www.pittstonfair.com/
Bangor State Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: July 25, 2024 - August 3, 2024
Location: Bangor, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A family fair featuring a midway, animal exhibits, crafts, and commercial exhibits.
Website: https://www.bangorstatefair.com/
Northern Maine Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: July 31, 2024 - August 4, 2024
Location: Presque Isle, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Large family fair, lots of rides and exhibits, horse pulling, harness racing, tractor pulling, demo derby.
Website: http://www.northernmainefairgrounds.com/
Monmouth Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: June 26, 2024 - June 29, 2024
Location: Monmouth, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A small family agricultural fair with midway, animal exhibits, crafts and animal pull events.
Website: http://www.monmouthfair.com/
Skowhegan State Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 8, 2024 - August 17, 2024
Location: Skowhegan, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A large agricultural fair featuring a huge midway, animal exhibits, crafts, commercial exhibits, flower show, animal pull events and harness racing.
Website: http://www.skowheganstatefair.com
Union Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: July 7, 2024 - July 10, 2024
Location: Union, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A large family fair famous for the annual State of Maine Wild Blueberry Festival. Large midway, crafts, animal pull events, harness racing.
Website: http://www.unionfair.org/
Acton Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 22, 2024 - August 25, 2024
Location: Acton, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Outstanding exhibits, 4-H, livestock exhibit, flower show, animal pull events, midway
Website: http://www.actonfair.net/
Piscataquis Valley Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 22, 2024 - August 25, 2024
Location: Dover-Foxcroft, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Agricultural exhibits, milking parlor, homemade ice cream, crafts, midway, mechanical pulling, demo derbies, animal pulling and stage shows.
Website: http://www.piscataquisvalleyfair.com/
Windsor Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 24, 2024 - September 2, 2024
Location: Windsor, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A large, progressive fair with extensive agricultural, art/crafts exhibits. Large midway, animal pull events, harness racing and mechanical pulling.
Website: http://www.windsorfair.com/
Blue Hill Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 29, 2024 - September 2, 2024
Location: Blue Hill, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Great country fair, midway, exhibits, non-pari-mutuel racing, animal pull events, entertainment.
Website: http://www.bluehillfair.com/
Springfield Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: June 13, 2024 - June 16, 2024
Location: Springfield, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Stage shows, animal and mechanical pulling, antique autos, midway, livestock exhibits.
Website: http://www.thespringfieldfair.com/
Harmony Free Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 30, 2024 - September 2, 2024
Location: Harmony, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Free Admission, Free Parking, Stage Shows, Animal and Mechanical Pulling, Midway, Demo Derby, Livestock and Exhibit Hall.
Website: https://harmonyfreefair.weebly.com/
Clinton Lions Agricultural Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 5, 2024 - September 8, 2024
Location: Clinton, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Clinton Family oriented agricultural fair with animal and mechanical pulling utstanding midway, exhibit halls, stage entertainment and woodsmen contest.
Website: https://clintonlionsagfair207.com/
Litchfield Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 6, 2024 - September 8, 2024
Location: Litchfield, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Country fair with large midway, agricultural exhibits, livestock, animal pull events. Historical fair museum.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/litchfieldfair/
Oxford County Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 11, 2024 - September 14, 2024
Location: Oxford, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Livestock shows, animal pull events, midway, crafts, exhibits, and a new harness race track.
Website: http://www.oxfordcountyfair.com/
New Portland Lion's Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 13, 2024 - September 15, 2024
Location: New Portland, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Midway, exhibit hall, animal and mechanical pulling, crafts, livestock exhibits, woodsmen day, stage shows.
Website: http://www.newportlandlionsfair.com/
Farmington Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 15, 2024 - September 21, 2024
Location: Farmington, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Large midway, exhibit halls, livestock exhibits, animal pull events, harness racing, demolition derby.
Website: https://www.farmingtonfair.org
Common Ground Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 20, 2024 - September 22, 2024
Location: Unity, Maine
Event Type: Fair
A celebration of rural life, demonstrations, Maine-Organic produced foods and crafts as well as livestock exhibits.
Website: http://www.mofga.org/The-Fair
Cumberland Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 22, 2024 - September 28, 2024
Location: Cumberland Ctr, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Large exhibit halls, midway and livestock exhibits. Animal pull events and harness racing.
Website: http://www.cumberlandfair.com
Fryeburg Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: September 29, 2024 - October 6, 2024
Location: Fryeburg, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Maine's largest agricultural fair. Beautiful setting in prime foliage season. Exhibit halls, museum, harness racing and livestock shows.
Website: http://www.fryeburgfair.org/
Topsham Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 6, 2024 - August 11, 2024
Location: Topsham, Maine
Event Type: Fair
Agricultural exhibits, animal pull events, 4-H, crafts, midway and harness racing.
Website: http://www.topshamfair.net
Washington County Fair
Division / Program: Agriculture Resource Development
Date: August 24, 2024 - August 25, 2024
Event Type: Fair
Stream Smart Workshop - Presque Isle
Division / Program: Maine Forest Service
Date: May 8, 2024
Time: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Natural Resources Conservation Service, 735 Maine Street, Presque Isle, ME
Event Type: Workshop/Training
Maine Audubon is hosting a Stream Smart workshop on Wednesday, May 8 from 8:30 am-3 pm in Presque Isle. Join us to learn about: the value of free-flowing streams; the regulations that are applicable when working on road/stream crossings; the principles of building Stream Smart crossings; the costs and benefits of Stream Smart crossings; and where to look for funding. We will be in the classroom from 8:30 am-12:30 pm, we will provide lunch, then from 1-3 pm we will go out in the field to look at a variety of crossings.
Maine Audubon works with partners all across the state to provide training on how to construct culverts and bridges that restore and maintain fish and wildlife habitat while also protecting roads and public safety. Maine Audubon offers introductory workshops as well as hands-on field trainings for road professionals.
This workshop is designed for professionals responsible for road-stream crossings
- We will cover road-stream crossing projects from site assessment to permitting and installation.
- Emphasis is on maintaining and restoring aquatic habitat and economic values of the stream.
- Workshop presenters include professionals from state and federal agencies and statewide non-profits.
- Participants can receive recertification credit for Maine DEP's Voluntary Contractor Certification Program.
Coffee, snacks, and lunch provided.
MFS is a partner in the Stream Smart program.
Registration required
Contact Name: Hannah Young
Contact Phone: 207-781-2330 ext. 219
Contact Email: conserve@maineaudubon.org
Cost: Free
Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Training Course
Division / Program: Quality Assurance and Regulations
Date: July 15, 2024 - July 16, 2024
Location: Held in person at Bolton Hill Forestry Conference Space, 2870 North Belfast Ave., Augusta, Maine 04330. This is a two-part course: the initial training occurs in July, with an optional follow-up workshop held in September at the same location.
Event Type: Workshop/Training
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry offers an introductory Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Training. The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system is necessary for proper food safety management. This course aims to instruct participants on best practices to write their own sanitation and HACCP plans, and offer opportunities to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and receive technical assistance. The two-day course introduces participants to the basic requirements for establishments operating under a HACCP plan.
Who Should Attend?
- The target audience is Maine meat and poultry processors and personnel; multiple applicants from one entity are welcome as are individuals.
- Any individual interested in learning about HACCP principles, or those who may need to review and refresh on important topics.
- Those who wish to receive training to create or update their HACCP plans, and network with other peers.
- The course is open to the first 20 registrants.
Course Topics
Over the course of the two days, participants will:
- Be introduced to HACCP and Food Safety and the benefits of a HACCP system
- Review the importance of HACCP Prerequisite Programs, Good Manufacturing Practices and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures
- Learn what different food safety hazards that may be introduced or present in their food safety system
- Learn the Seven Principles of HACCP and how they form the basis of any HACCP Plan:
- Conducting a Hazard Analysis
- Identifying Critical Control Points
- Establishing Critical Limits for Each CCP
- Establishing Monitoring Procedures
- Establishing Corrective Actions
- Establishing Record Keeping Procedures
- Establishing Verification Procedures
- Understand how to use the principles of HACCP to implement and maintain a HACCP plan
Benefits of Attending
- Participants will receive insight into HACCP regulatory requirements (USDA-FSIS regulations), HACCP plan development, and implementation of HACCP systems.
- At the end of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion certifying they meet the regulatory requirements of 9 CFR 417.7 to create and maintain (and therefore operate) a HACCP plan under MMPI/USDA.
- Participants will be able to create their own plan to implement.
- Participation in (and successfully completing) the two-day course in July allows participants to attend an optional September workshop to collaborate, review, support, and improve their plans.
Participant Commitment Details
- The costs include the participant's time commitment, including submitting the registration form, traveling to and from courses, time in the course, training materials, and food and beverage for lunch each day.
- Requires an approximate time commitment of 40 hours of course training (8-10 hours each day, with scheduled breaks), plus homework assignments for part two, estimated at 15-25 hours.
- Program participants will need to secure their reservation by check payable to Treasurer, State of Maine, or use a credit card. You will receive payment instructions after submitting your reservation.
- At the program conclusion, participants will be asked to share their insights, which may be used to inform future training opportunities.
- To successfully complete the course and receive a certificate of training, participants must be present for the entire delivery and actively participate in the exercises during the two-day offerings in July. A certificate will not be issued if a participant misses portions of the course.
- All participants must register in advance and then secure their reservation with a payment.
- Participants who successfully complete the July training have the option to attend a September workshop; they will need to bring a draft of their own HACCP plan.
Registration
The registration priority deadline is June 1. You should submit your registration by July 1 in case there is a wait list opportunity.
Contact Name: Josh Collins
Contact Phone: (207) 287-3841
Contact Email: joshua.collins@maine.gov
Cost: $200
Related Documents: Registration Questions (PDF) / Civil Rights, Accessibility, and Limited English Proficiency Disclosures (PDF)
Fundamental BMPs to Protect Water Quality on Haul Roads and Skid Trails - Millinocket
Division / Program: Maine Forest Service
Date: May 2, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Brochu Garage, 350 Golden Road, Millinocket, ME
Event Type: Workshop/Training
This workshop is designed for loggers and foresters and includes indoor presentations and an outdoor session. The workshop will focus on the Fundamental BMPs with an emphasis on controlling the flow of water and minimizing/stabilizing exposed mineral soil.
Registration is limited to 20.
REGISTER
Agenda
-
BMPs and Water Quality: An Introduction to the main Topics for BMP Level One training.
Jim Ferrante, District Forester, Maine Forest Service -
Best Management Practices for Forestry: Protecting Maine's Water Quality: An introduction to the Maine Forest Service BMP manual.
Tom Gilbert, Water Resources Specialist, Maine Forest Service -
Maines Fundamental Best Management Practices for Forestry with Scenarios.
Jim Ferrante, District Forester, Maine Forest Service
Lauren Ouellette, District Forester, Maine Forest Service - Lunch - Provided
-
Field Site Visit One - Controlling water on skid trails and around yards
- Using the BMP Monitoring approach to assess the trail as a class and in groups
- Discussion of BMP improvements
-
Field Site Site Two - Planning a Crossing
- In groups, determine location of crossing
- What type of crossing should be installed
- What BMPs are applicable and why
- Using the BMP Monitoring approach to assess the crossing and approaches
- Discussion of BMP improvements
Continuing Education Credits:
- CLP- 1 day recertification
- Master Logger 6 credit hours
- SAF 4 category 1 credits
Thank You to our Partners and Sponsors:
- A&A Brochu
- Maine SFI
- Pleasant River Lumber
- Robbins Lumber
Contact Name: Jim Ferrante
Contact Phone: 207-441-4308
Contact Email: Jim.Ferrante@maine.gov
Emerald Ash Borer DACF Update for Cities and Towns
Division / Program: Maine Forest Service
Date: May 6, 2024
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Virtual - Teams
Event Type: Workshop/Training
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) will host guest speakers and provide an update for city and town tree and forest managers and public works staff on preparation for and response to the emerald ash borer in Maine. Guests from New Hampshire will provide insights from their experiences responding to emerald ash borer. Maine Forest Service will provide an update on the current situation in Maine.
Agenda
- Brief Introduction, Maine Forest Service
- EAB Situation in NH - Bill Davidson, N.H. Department of Natural & Cultural Resources, Division of Forests and Lands
- Management of the Utility Corridor in NH Ian Farley and Richard Sullivan, Eversource
- Maine Updates Mike Parisio, Maine Forest Service
- Wrap up, Maine Forest Service
Continuing Education Credits:
- Licensed Pesticide Applicator (1)
- Maine Licensed Professional Forester (1.5)
REGISTER
Fundamental BMPs to Protect Water Quality on Haul Roads and Skid Trails Workshop - Searsmont
Division / Program: Maine Forest Service
Date: May 7, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Robbins Lumber, 506 Main Street South, Searsmont, ME
Event Type: Workshop/Training
This workshop is designed for loggers and foresters and includes indoor presentations and an outdoor session. The workshop will focus on the Fundamental BMPs with an emphasis on controlling the flow of water and minimizing/stabilizing exposed mineral soil.
Registration is limited to 25.
REGISTER
Agenda
- BMPs and Water Quality: An Introduction to the main Topics for BMP Level One training.
- Best Management Practices for Forestry: Protecting Maine's Water Quality: An introduction to the Maine Forest Service BMP manual.
- Maines Fundamental Best Management Practices for Forestry with Scenarios.
- Lunch - Provided
-
Field Site Visit One - Controlling water on skid trails and around yards
- Using the BMP Monitoring approach to assess the trail as a class and in groups
- Discussion of BMP improvements
-
Field Site Site Two - Planning a Crossing
- In groups, determine location of crossing
- What type of crossing should be installed
- What BMPs are applicable and why
- Using the BMP Monitoring approach to assess the crossing and approaches
- Discussion of BMP improvements
Continuing Education Credits:
- CLP- 1 day recertification
- Master Logger 6 credit hours
- SAF 4 category 1 credits
Thank You to our Partners and Sponsors:
- A&A Brochu
- Maine SFI
- Pleasant River Lumber
- Robbins Lumber
Contact Name: Jared Gregory
Contact Phone: 207-215-5318
Contact Email: Jared.M.Gregory@maine.gov
Stewardship Education Alliance (S.E.A.) FAIR - Camden
Division / Program: Maine Forest Service
Date: May 31, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Camden-Rockport Middle School (CRMS) - rain or shine, 34 Knowlton St, Camden, ME 04843
Event Type:
The Maine Forest Service, along with representatives of over twenty environmental organizations and schools will offer engaging exhibits for the public. There will be activities and information for adults, middle schoolers, and high school students.
Cost: Free
Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk with author Tom Seymour at Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park
Division / Program:
Date: May 25, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Meet at the Backshore Trailhead parking area along Indian Bar Road on Cape Rosier in Brooksville. (Three Miles Off Route 176)
State Park: Holbrook Island
Event Type: Nature Exploration
Join Maine forager and author Tom Seymour as he leads a walk along groomed trails in search of early wild edibles. Tom will identify common forest, meadow, and seaside plants that have medicinal or nutritional value.
Water is provided. The walking session will last approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours and cover a total distance of mile. Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The program may be canceled due to continuous precipitation or lightning in the area. The park address is 172 Indian Bar Road, Brooksville.
Contact Name: The park
Contact Phone: (207) 326-4012
Website: https://https://www.maine.gov/holbrookisland
Cost: Free - programs are free and no entry fee is charged at Holbrook Island Sanctuary.
Related Documents: Wild Edibles Program with Tom Seymour (PDF 280KB)
Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk with author Tom Seymour at Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park
Division / Program: Parks and Lands
Date: May 25, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Meet at the Backshore Trailhead parking area along Indian Bar Road on Cape Rosier in Brooksville. (Three Miles Off Route 176)
State Park: Holbrook Island
Event Type: Nature Exploration
Join Maine forager and author Tom Seymour as he leads a walk along groomed trails in search of early wild edibles. Tom will identify common forest, meadow, and seaside plants that have medicinal or nutritional value.
Water is provided. The walking session will last approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours and cover a total distance of 3/4-mile. Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The program may be canceled due to continuous precipitation or lightning in the area. The park address is 172 Indian Bar Road, Brooksville.
Contact Name: The park
Contact Phone: (207) 326-4012
Website: https://https://www.maine.gov/holbrookisland
Cost: Free - programs are free and no entry fee is charged at Holbrook Island Sanctuary.
Related Documents: Wild Edibles Program with Tom Seymour (PDF 280KB)
Forestry Financial Incentives and Assistance - Hybrid
Division / Program: Maine Forest Service
Date: May 16, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: MOFGA Campus library, 294 Crosby Brook Road, Unity and Zoom
Event Type: Workshop/Training
Host: Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association
Join us for a discussion on available financial incentives and assistance with the Maine Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service! Financials can be a large limiting factor to stewarding your land well. Luckily, there are resources available - whether you need a new bridge, have an understory of barberry, or simply need an updated forest management plan.
Speaker Sean Horan, a Climate Smart agriculture and forestry professional with UMaine Coop Ext and NRCs will be sharing NRCS opportunities and programs aimed at helping individuals manage their forest land. Speaker Alyssa Gregory, a District Forester with the Maine Forest Service, will be using her vast knowledge of regulatory issues, education and urban forestry to inform individuals on best practices for managing their land.
Snacks and hot beverages will be provided to those attending in-person. With a sliding scale type registration aimed at making workshops accessible, the recommended price for participation is $5 for MOFGA members and $10 for non-members. Please pay what feels reasonable.
Please email forestry@mofga.org if you have any questions.
REGISTER