Curious about Alpacas? As part of National Alpaca Farm Days, four local farms have teamed up for an event this Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 27 and 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Riceville area. It’s your chance to learn about this unique member of the camel family.
Alpacas are shorn once a year for their warm, silky fleece, which is similar to the cashmere used to make yarns and fabrics for luxurious clothing. There will be demonstrations of spinning and other fiber arts, as well as hands-on activities for children. Admission is free. Alpaca fiber, yarns and ready-to-wear garments will be available for purchase.
For info and directions, call Starr Cash at 298-9166, or drop an e-mail to starr@veneziadream.com.
Got a weed problem? Flame it! On Saturday, Sept. 27, from 3 to 5 p.m., Rocco and Mike of Jafasa Farm will demonstrate the results they have had using flame weeding and shallow cultivation for stale-bedding and weed control in direct-sown vegetable crops. They’ll discuss timing, tools, technique and safety. Other tools and techniques for managing weeds with minimal soil disturbance will also be presented.
The mini-school fee is $20, which includes educational materials.
To register, Contact Meredith McKissick at (828) 450-2026 or meredith@organicgrowersschool.org.
