East Coast Biodynamic Workshop

Some things about a vineyard site can’t be easily improved. Like soil type and topography. But there are certainly things that can be enriched – like biodiversity and soil resiliency – through thoughtful farming practices. Such as biodynamics.

Biodynamics is the original organic agricultural movement. It treats soil fertility, plant growth, and animals as ecologically interrelated tasks. I wrote more about that here.

On July 27-28, we’re hosting the first east coast vineyard-specific biodynamic workshop. 

To help guide our program, we're welcoming Joseph Brinkley to Maryland. Joseph is a viticulturist, biodynamic specialist and the director of vineyard operations at Bonterra – the nation’s largest organic winery and Wine Enthusiast’s 2016 American Winery of the Year.

We met Joseph a little more than a year ago when we welcomed him to our team to help guide the development of Burnt Hill.

We’re thrilled to have Joseph share his vast knowledge with east coast vignerons.

BIODYNAMICS FOR VINEYARDS: Vineyard Management Practices in Relation to Soil Health & the Biodynamic Preparations is a two-day workshop which includes lectures and field work focusing on overall soil health and a balanced farm system.

Lectures and experiential learning will focus on overall soil health and a balanced farm system, which can be achieved through the following areas: cover cropping, compost, biodiversity, and biodynamic field sprays.

• Cover Crops: The four primary plant types (legume, grass/small grain, brassica, flower) and the value of diverse plantings.
• Compost: Using high quality ‘ingredients’ and biodynamic preparations (BD 502-507) to enliven soil. Sourcing the best materials from your locale and the proper way of mixing and handling these materials to ensure that your compost is of the highest quality. 
• Biodiversity: Increasing plant and animal biodiversity with animals, trees, meadows, etc. – while creating functionality and beauty with multiple layers of benefit.
• BD Field Sprays: The biodynamic preparations and their ideal timings, stirring, and application methods in order to bring overall health to the farm.

You’ll come away with practical information to incorporate into your own vineyard.

Save The Dates! Friday, July 27 - Saturday, July 28, 2018, 9am to 5pm each day.

This is a hands-on workshop – with only 40 spaces available.

Cost is $200 ($150 for MWA & MGGA members)