Agroforestry & Climate Adaptation: A Tour of Big River Chestnuts

Date: Saturday, June 29, 2024. Rain Date: Saturday, July 13
Time: Farm Tour from 9:30 to 11:30. Socializing from 11:30 to 12:30.
Cost: Free
Location:195 River Rd, Sunderland, MA

With each year that passes, extreme weather events become more frequent and erratic, and it
becomes harder and harder to make a living as a farmer. In response to climate change, many
farmers are experimenting with a range of ‘climate-smart’ practices that increase the diversity,
resilience, and adaptability of their operation. Some particularly exciting practices fall under the
umbrella of ‘agroforestry’ – a broad term that refers to any practice that intentionally integrates
forestry with agriculture.

Agroforestry is not new – It is a traditional practice that was forgotten as American farms grew
larger, less diverse, and more mechanized. However, agroforestry is starting to receive a great
deal of attention, and is primed for a resurgence. Indeed, agroforestry practices may prove vital
in keeping farmers farming.

Join us for a tour of Big River Chestnuts, where we will learn about agroforestry practices from
Jono Neiger. Big River Chestnuts is a 10-acre diversified alley cropping and silvopasture farm
started by Jono in 2018, with a vision to produce commercial quantities of chestnuts while
stewarding the river terrace soils and habitat. In addition to the chestnuts, Jono grows heartnuts,
hazelnuts, and persimmon. A diverse mix of perennial crops grow in between the rows of trees,
while livestock forage amongst the lush landscape, adding valuable nutrients while providing
light tillage, along with a host of other benefits.

The day will begin with a short discussion on the value of agroforestry as a climate adaptation
technique, followed by a walking tour of the farm. After the tour, people are encouraged to
socialize and enjoy some local snacks. Please register here.