Biodynamics

Since 1972, Hawthorne Valley Farm has been a working farm committed to the understanding and practice of Biodynamic agriculture. As society attempts to cope with the turbulence caused by an industrial approach to agriculture, the biodynamic concept of the farm as an ecologically sustainable whole is one that can help bring a timely solution to contemporary challenges. Biodynamic methods recognize the importance of both human and biological community life and strive to bring renewing forces to both. Through this series of offerings, we seek to further the understanding and practice of Biodynamic farming and gardening.

Biodynamic Winter Intensive 2012

Schedule: Weeks 1 & 2 (PDF, 55 kb)

The 2012 Winter Intensive is full. To recieve registration information for 2013, please send us an email.

Biodynamic Winter Intensive 2013:

Animals, Humanity, and the Living Context of Agriculture

A workshop for farmers, gardeners, and others seeking a renewed relationship to the land

Hawthorne Valley Farm Learning Center and The Nature Institute offer two complementary weeks of instruction to those seeking a fuller understanding of Biodynamic agriculture. The first week offers participants a way of becoming more perceptive land workers by deepening one’s observations of the qualitative and dynamic aspects of nature and by practicing flexible thinking in relation to animal and human development and evolution. The second week extends these themes and introduces concepts and practices more specifically related to Biodynamic agriculture, including speciesappropriate animal husbandry, holistic veterinary considerations, the evolution of the socio-economic context of agriculture, and the significance of farm individualization and the role of the Biodynamic preparations.

Sliding scale $250 to 450 per week or $400 to 800 for both sessions, includes morning snack and lunch

For more information or to register please email or call 518-672-7500 x 232

● Week 1: February 10 to 15, 2013
● Week 2: February 17 to 22, 2013

This Winter Intensive is part of the two-year North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program and alternates with intensives focused on soils, plants, and the stars. Enrollment in the North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program includes course fees associated with participation in this two-week program.

Co-sponsored by:

Hawthorne Valley Farm Learning Center
The Nature Institute
Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association

Various housing options are available including Bed & Breakfasts, motel and home stays. Prices vary beginning at $30 per night. The Biodynamic Winter Intensive fulfills the classroom requirement for the North American Biodynamic Apprenticeship Program (NABDAP). For more information on how to join this national, two-year program in Biodynamic agriculture, please visit the website.