This episode of Voices from the Field was produced in partnership with ATTRA and the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. To learn more about SARE’s library of practical information and available grants to fund projects that advance sustainable agriculture, visit sare.org.

 In this episode, NCAT Sustainable Agriculture Specialist Tyler Jenkins dives into the world of chestnuts with Michelle Ajamian, who works with Rural Action as a network developer for Appalachian Staple Foods Collaborative. 

 Michelle shares her experiences and insights from her work in southeastern Ohio as a project developer and advocate for small-scale farming. She discusses her efforts to establish a thriving market for chestnut growers in the region. 

 
Chestnuts are a sustainable and nutritious crop with deep roots in American agriculture. Michelle explores the success stories of cultivating chestnuts – from fostering community partnerships to promoting environmentally friendly practices.

Resources:

·        Demonstrating Higher Yields and Market Opportunities of Mixed Annual and Perennial Intensive Planting in Appalachian Ohio

·        Producing Culinary Chestnut Flour with Michelle Ajamian and Amy Miller

·        Consider Chestnuts: A Potential Perennial for Market Farms

·        Rural Action

·        Appalachian Staple Foods Collaborative

Contact Tyler Jenkins at tylerj@ncat.org.

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 You can get in touch with NCAT/ATTRA specialists and find access to our trusted, practical sustainable-agriculture publications, webinars, videos, and other resources at ATTRA.NCAT.ORG.