Conferences, Talks, Presentations & Workshops
Upcoming
Restoring Degraded Riparian Forested Buffers into Multi-Functional Habitats for Socio-Ecological Resilience. Lake Champlain Basin Conference. January 27, 2026; 11-12:15 Chittenden Bank Room 4C. Register here. Come learn about a socio-ecological reconciliation project at Shelburne Farms aimed to mitigate phosphorus pollution, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate Abenaki land access, foster local ecoliteracy, and restore degraded forested Riparian Buffers. Hear about the 6 year pilot and three next-level project including data from two years of the current study, site history, methodology, socio-ecological reconciliation principles, community collaborations, and context within restoration and regenerative agriculture movements
Multi-Functional Restoration of Degraded Riparian Buffers via Socio-Ecological Reconciliation Principles and Practices. Winter NOFAVT Conference. Feb. 14th, 2026. St. Michael's College. Register here. Join Ruth and Jess’ team with microbes, fungi and plants to learn about innovative strategies that restore degraded riparian buffers to resilient landscapes through applying ancient and modern permaculture practices to a local farm. Learn about this case study’s site history, design, methodology, and current data to mitigate phosphorus runoff, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate land access to original peoples, and foster ecoliteracy in the local community. Then brainstorm how these socio-ecological principles and strategies can be applied in your gardens, homesteads, farms, parks, and local communities. Leave inspired with new ideas and fresh opportunities for collaborations which strengthen community networks.
Innovative Strategies to Restore Degraded Forested Riparian Buffers at Shelburne Farms. Eagle Hill NE Natural History Conference. April 17 2026; 10-1pm. Meeting Place: Parking lot just outside of the front gate at Shelburne Farms by the store at 1611 Harbor Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482. Register here. Join us at Shelburne Farms to walk from a critical source area through a degraded riparian forested buffer past two restoration studies to the outlet at Orchard Cove in Unceded Abenaki Territory. This tour will cover topics such as manual nonnative species removal, mycorrhizal ecology, phosphorus remediation, mycoremediation, phytoremediation, pollinator habitat, interspecies diversity, grassroots community collaboration, ecoliteracy, rematriation, and soil science amidst whole system principles: reclaiming the commons and socio-ecological reconciliation. While early spring, ephemerals and early bloomers will likely be sharing their glory amidst the restored areas. We will highlight site history, colonial agriculture’s legacy, research and restoration methodology, data from two years of the current study, data from the six year pilot project, their context within the restoration and regenerative agriculture movements as well as broader implications for bioregional watershed and trophic resilience. Gear: It may be cold and wet so bring waterproof, insulated boots, layers, water, and any snacks needed to stay warm and cozy.
We will also be offering a talk at the conference over the weekend on this restoration research as part of a larger restoration session. Stay tuned!
We will also be offering a talk at the conference over the weekend on this restoration research as part of a larger restoration session. Stay tuned!
Innovative Strategies to Restore Degraded Forested Riparian Buffers; Shelburne Farms, July 23, 5:30 - 7:30 pm.
Come tour a socio-ecological reconciliation project at Shelburne Farms, from critical source to watershed, aimed to mitigate phosphorus pollution, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate Abenaki land access, foster local ecoliteracy, and restore degraded forested Riparian Buffers. Hear about the 6 year pilot and three year next-level project taking place at Shelburne Farms. Data from the current study will be shared along with site history, methodology, socio-ecological reconciliation principles, community collaborations, and context within the larger restoration and regenerative agriculture movements.
Come tour a socio-ecological reconciliation project at Shelburne Farms, from critical source to watershed, aimed to mitigate phosphorus pollution, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate Abenaki land access, foster local ecoliteracy, and restore degraded forested Riparian Buffers. Hear about the 6 year pilot and three year next-level project taking place at Shelburne Farms. Data from the current study will be shared along with site history, methodology, socio-ecological reconciliation principles, community collaborations, and context within the larger restoration and regenerative agriculture movements.
Past
Innovative Strategies to Restore Degraded Forested Riparian Buffers; Shelburne Farms, November 12, 5:30 - 7:00pm.
Come learn about a socio-ecological reconciliation project at Shelburne Farms aimed to mitigate phosphorus pollution, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate Abenaki land access, foster local ecoliteracy, and restore degraded forested Riparian Buffers. Hear about the 6 year pilot and two year next-level project taking place at Shelburne Farms. Data from two years of the current study will be shared along with site history, methodology, socio-ecological reconciliation principles, community collaborations, and context within the larger restoration and regenerative agriculture movements. This will involve a powerpoint with accompanying handouts in the farm barn. Register here.
Come learn about a socio-ecological reconciliation project at Shelburne Farms aimed to mitigate phosphorus pollution, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate Abenaki land access, foster local ecoliteracy, and restore degraded forested Riparian Buffers. Hear about the 6 year pilot and two year next-level project taking place at Shelburne Farms. Data from two years of the current study will be shared along with site history, methodology, socio-ecological reconciliation principles, community collaborations, and context within the larger restoration and regenerative agriculture movements. This will involve a powerpoint with accompanying handouts in the farm barn. Register here.
Strategies, Initial Findings, and Research Aims in Restoring a Degraded Riparian Forested Buffer, Shelburne Farms, July 24th, 5:15-7:15 pm
Walk and view from critical source area to the lake this myco-phytoremediation restoration project in previously degraded riparian buffers now designed to: mitigate phosphorus, increase pollinator habitat, offer medicine, food, and tools for the Abenaki Peoples and nurture eco-literacy in the bioregional community. Bioregional context, site history, ecological reconciliation principles, methodology, results from Year 1, expected deliverables, and invitations for collaboration will be shared with time for questions. Register here.
Walk and view from critical source area to the lake this myco-phytoremediation restoration project in previously degraded riparian buffers now designed to: mitigate phosphorus, increase pollinator habitat, offer medicine, food, and tools for the Abenaki Peoples and nurture eco-literacy in the bioregional community. Bioregional context, site history, ecological reconciliation principles, methodology, results from Year 1, expected deliverables, and invitations for collaboration will be shared with time for questions. Register here.
Restoring a Degraded Forested Riparian Buffer, Eagle Hill NE Natural History Conference; April 4-6, Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel, Springfield MA
This myco-phytoremediation project on unceded Abenaki land evaluates the utility of mycorrhizae and native plant polycultures in phosphorus (P) mitigation, and pollinator habitat improvement, while facilitating Original Peoples’ land access and increasing eco-literacy. This study, building on a completed pilot study, restores a degraded forested riparian buffer. This involved clearing six plots of Rhamnus cathartica (Common Buckthorn) and planting assemblages of 42 native, polyculture species that provide food, medicine and tools for the Abenaki peoples. Three plots were inoculated with endemic mycorrhizae, three plots were uninoculated, and three plots were left as undisturbed control. Data is gathered over three years in P soil, P soil water, P plant uptake, mycorrhizal presence, and plant diversity. This study offers innovative strategies to forested riparian buffer management which often uses chemicals for nonnative species removal and rarely considers P remediation, pollinator habitat and Indigenous land access in its design and implementation. While investigating differences in P dynamics between the inoculated, uninoculated and control plots, efficacy of mycorrhizal inoculation is also considered. From this project’s execution and findings, a manual is being written to inform current Best Management Practices for Forested Riparian Buffers. Harvesting fruit and above ground plant tissue via phytoremediation when maximum P in its tissue before plants senesce offer a valuable socio-ecological service of valuable plant access to Abenaki while simultaneously P mitigation. Designing a multi-functional riparian buffer with the Original Peoples of this land, preparing and installing through a grassroots community while gathering rigorous scientific data provides a model for reconciliation.
This myco-phytoremediation project on unceded Abenaki land evaluates the utility of mycorrhizae and native plant polycultures in phosphorus (P) mitigation, and pollinator habitat improvement, while facilitating Original Peoples’ land access and increasing eco-literacy. This study, building on a completed pilot study, restores a degraded forested riparian buffer. This involved clearing six plots of Rhamnus cathartica (Common Buckthorn) and planting assemblages of 42 native, polyculture species that provide food, medicine and tools for the Abenaki peoples. Three plots were inoculated with endemic mycorrhizae, three plots were uninoculated, and three plots were left as undisturbed control. Data is gathered over three years in P soil, P soil water, P plant uptake, mycorrhizal presence, and plant diversity. This study offers innovative strategies to forested riparian buffer management which often uses chemicals for nonnative species removal and rarely considers P remediation, pollinator habitat and Indigenous land access in its design and implementation. While investigating differences in P dynamics between the inoculated, uninoculated and control plots, efficacy of mycorrhizal inoculation is also considered. From this project’s execution and findings, a manual is being written to inform current Best Management Practices for Forested Riparian Buffers. Harvesting fruit and above ground plant tissue via phytoremediation when maximum P in its tissue before plants senesce offer a valuable socio-ecological service of valuable plant access to Abenaki while simultaneously P mitigation. Designing a multi-functional riparian buffer with the Original Peoples of this land, preparing and installing through a grassroots community while gathering rigorous scientific data provides a model for reconciliation.
Film Screening and Fundraiser for Railyard Apothecary's Herbal Justice Fund
November 1 ALE Seminar: Myco-Phytoremediation in Multi-Functional Riparian Buffers: Restoration, Education, Training and Rematriation at Shelburne Farms, Year 1
1:10-2pm, 110 Jeffords Hall, UVM, Learn about an active socio-ecological restoration research project grown from a four year pilot study at Shelburne Farms. This project aims to restore a degraded riparian buffer with objectives to: mitigate phosphorus, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate land access for the Abenaki Peoples and grow eco-literacy. Bioregional context, site history, ecological reconciliation principles, methodology, results from Year 1, expected deliverables, and invitations for collaboration will be shared with time for questions. Here is a link of the recording.
1:10-2pm, 110 Jeffords Hall, UVM, Learn about an active socio-ecological restoration research project grown from a four year pilot study at Shelburne Farms. This project aims to restore a degraded riparian buffer with objectives to: mitigate phosphorus, increase pollinator habitat, facilitate land access for the Abenaki Peoples and grow eco-literacy. Bioregional context, site history, ecological reconciliation principles, methodology, results from Year 1, expected deliverables, and invitations for collaboration will be shared with time for questions. Here is a link of the recording.
October 16 Community Presentation, Myco-Phytoremediation in Multi-Functional Riparian Forest Buffers: Restoration, Education, Training, and Rematriation.
6-7:30 PM, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
Hear about the pilot foundation of this new research, objectives, methodology, results from Year 1, and expected deliverables. Register here.
October 6, Educational Site Tour to VT Farm To Plate, Agroforestry Working Group
9:30-1 PM, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
Sept 23, Educational Site Tour for Community Members
8:30-10:30 AM, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
July 25 Community Presentation & Site Tour
5:30-7pm, Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, VT
Our current research project: Myco-Phytoremediation in Multi-Functional Riparian Forest Buffers: Restoration, Education, Training, and Rematriation
6-7:30 PM, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
Hear about the pilot foundation of this new research, objectives, methodology, results from Year 1, and expected deliverables. Register here.
October 6, Educational Site Tour to VT Farm To Plate, Agroforestry Working Group
9:30-1 PM, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
Sept 23, Educational Site Tour for Community Members
8:30-10:30 AM, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
July 25 Community Presentation & Site Tour
5:30-7pm, Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, VT
Our current research project: Myco-Phytoremediation in Multi-Functional Riparian Forest Buffers: Restoration, Education, Training, and Rematriation
May 7, 12, 26, 27 & June 2 Ecological Restoration Community Workshops with MycoLab
9am-4pm. Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, VT
Opportunities for youth and adults to learn how to identify and remove nonnative species as part of a large site preparation phase of this restoration & reserach project at Shelburne Farms.
Register here! If you have questions email: [email protected]
May 19 Maine Fungi Fest
Incomprehensive Fungi Song
~12pm. University of Southern Maine Campus, Portland Maine.
Song performed by Jess and Mycelial madness friends.
May 18 Maine Fungi Fest
Working with Mycorrhizae in Forested Riparian Buffers on Farms with a Reconciliation Orientation.
3pm. University of Southern Maine Campus, Portland Maine.
Mycorrhizal fungi have networked with flora for over 400 million years. Learn about an Ecological Restoration project in which mycorrhizae are applied in regenerative agriculture. Design, methods, data, conclusions, and current next steps to expand this work will be shared from four years of mesocosm and field trials from a proof-of-concept Myco-Phytoremediation pilot at Shelburne Farms. After a presentation, participants will be invited to share in small group discussions around their understanding of and relationship with mycorrhizae, along with strategies for ethically rewilding landscapes that increase pollinator habitat and protect watershed health while collaborating with Original Peoples to begin to address some of the social injustices accompanying colonial agriculture's ecological devastation.
April 21 NE Natural History Conference
Restoring a Degraded Riparian Forested Buffer while Balancing Phosphorus Remediation, Biodiversity, and Indigenous Land Access
4:05 Room C. 55 Eagle Street Albany, NY.
This myco-phytoremediation pilot project on unceded Abenaki land evaluated the utility of mycorrhizae and native plant polycultures in phosphorus (P) mitigation, and pollinator habitat improvement, while facilitating land access for the Original Peoples. Literature, Methodology, Data, and next steps will be shared.
April 20 NE Natural History Conference
The Vermont Fungal Scientific Advisory Group (FSAG)
1:55pm, Room C, Eagle Street Albany, NY.
The Vermont FSAG aims to assist the Endangered Species Committee by compiling a species list for the state of Vermont, sponsoring and supporting outreach and educational programs about fungi, and advocating for the conservation of rare fungi species and their associated natural communities. In order to better understand the fungal diversity within the Green Mountain State, comprehensive data collection is necessary. This will entail an accurate accounting of previously vouchered/collected specimens, QA/QCing ongoing observations, and sequencing/genetic barcoding where appropriate. We recognize that this is a vast undertaking and to fully embrace the task, FSAG has employed a community science based approach to information gathering. In addition to updating archival records, we are focusing our efforts on engaging the public to contribute to these collective aims. In this presentation, Jess Rubin will review the Fungal SAG origins, its role within the VT Agency of Natural Resources, and how our research can support VT Conservation Design Initiatives. Dave Muska will discuss the FSAG’s approach to public outreach and education over the past year and forthcoming season.
Feb 17 VT Winter NOFA Conference
Working with Mycorrhizae on Farms with a Reconciliation Orientation. Carol McGranaghan and Jess Rubin.
Mycorrhizal fungi have networked with flora for over 400 million years. Learn about a local Ecological Restoration project in which mycorrhizae are applied in regenerative agriculture. Design, methods, data, conclusions, and next steps to expand this work will be shared from four years of mesocosm and field trials of a proof-of-concept Myco-Phytoremediation pilot at Shelburne Farms. This workshop explores the rematriation context in which MycoEvolve operates and offers information to help guide decision making for best management practices in the organic farming movement.
9am-4pm. Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, VT
Opportunities for youth and adults to learn how to identify and remove nonnative species as part of a large site preparation phase of this restoration & reserach project at Shelburne Farms.
Register here! If you have questions email: [email protected]
May 19 Maine Fungi Fest
Incomprehensive Fungi Song
~12pm. University of Southern Maine Campus, Portland Maine.
Song performed by Jess and Mycelial madness friends.
May 18 Maine Fungi Fest
Working with Mycorrhizae in Forested Riparian Buffers on Farms with a Reconciliation Orientation.
3pm. University of Southern Maine Campus, Portland Maine.
Mycorrhizal fungi have networked with flora for over 400 million years. Learn about an Ecological Restoration project in which mycorrhizae are applied in regenerative agriculture. Design, methods, data, conclusions, and current next steps to expand this work will be shared from four years of mesocosm and field trials from a proof-of-concept Myco-Phytoremediation pilot at Shelburne Farms. After a presentation, participants will be invited to share in small group discussions around their understanding of and relationship with mycorrhizae, along with strategies for ethically rewilding landscapes that increase pollinator habitat and protect watershed health while collaborating with Original Peoples to begin to address some of the social injustices accompanying colonial agriculture's ecological devastation.
April 21 NE Natural History Conference
Restoring a Degraded Riparian Forested Buffer while Balancing Phosphorus Remediation, Biodiversity, and Indigenous Land Access
4:05 Room C. 55 Eagle Street Albany, NY.
This myco-phytoremediation pilot project on unceded Abenaki land evaluated the utility of mycorrhizae and native plant polycultures in phosphorus (P) mitigation, and pollinator habitat improvement, while facilitating land access for the Original Peoples. Literature, Methodology, Data, and next steps will be shared.
April 20 NE Natural History Conference
The Vermont Fungal Scientific Advisory Group (FSAG)
1:55pm, Room C, Eagle Street Albany, NY.
The Vermont FSAG aims to assist the Endangered Species Committee by compiling a species list for the state of Vermont, sponsoring and supporting outreach and educational programs about fungi, and advocating for the conservation of rare fungi species and their associated natural communities. In order to better understand the fungal diversity within the Green Mountain State, comprehensive data collection is necessary. This will entail an accurate accounting of previously vouchered/collected specimens, QA/QCing ongoing observations, and sequencing/genetic barcoding where appropriate. We recognize that this is a vast undertaking and to fully embrace the task, FSAG has employed a community science based approach to information gathering. In addition to updating archival records, we are focusing our efforts on engaging the public to contribute to these collective aims. In this presentation, Jess Rubin will review the Fungal SAG origins, its role within the VT Agency of Natural Resources, and how our research can support VT Conservation Design Initiatives. Dave Muska will discuss the FSAG’s approach to public outreach and education over the past year and forthcoming season.
Feb 17 VT Winter NOFA Conference
Working with Mycorrhizae on Farms with a Reconciliation Orientation. Carol McGranaghan and Jess Rubin.
Mycorrhizal fungi have networked with flora for over 400 million years. Learn about a local Ecological Restoration project in which mycorrhizae are applied in regenerative agriculture. Design, methods, data, conclusions, and next steps to expand this work will be shared from four years of mesocosm and field trials of a proof-of-concept Myco-Phytoremediation pilot at Shelburne Farms. This workshop explores the rematriation context in which MycoEvolve operates and offers information to help guide decision making for best management practices in the organic farming movement.
