Hosted by orchard stewards Cathy and Ian Finley, the field day will explore how diverse cover crop blends are being used to increase organic matter, build biomass, improve water movement, support nutrient cycling, and break up compacted soils. Participants will hear firsthand about Little Dog Farm’s approach to selecting and managing cover crops, lessons learned over time, and how practices have evolved as the orchard has become established.

The virtual field day will also feature insights from regenerative soil and living compost specialist Jo Tobias of RootShoot Soils, who works with farmers and land stewards to better understand soil biology and apply practical strategies to rebuild soil function in the field. Jo will share perspectives on how biologically focused management practices, including compost-based liquid bio-blends and nutrient cycling approaches, can support orchard resilience.

As drought and water availability continue to be growing concerns for fruit producers across BC, this field day will explore how cover cropping and soil-building practices can contribute to healthier, more resilient orchard systems.

The event will include a pre-recorded farm tour followed by a live Q&A with Ian Finley and Jo Tobias.