Dust off your boots and press those pearl snaps! Local nonprofit Farmshare Austin is gearing up for its first-ever Farm Raiser.

Featuring live music from the Barn Owls, square dancing, barbecue, and craft beer from Rogness Brewing and Hops and Grain, the event will support Farmshare’s Indiegogo campaign facilitating the launch of the Farmer Starter program this fall.

Founded in 2012, Farmshare Austin aims to accelerate organic farming by offering on-farm education and training. Beginning October 1, Farmer Starter students will take part in an intensive six-month program to learn the skills essential to successful farming. Funds raised will be used to complete construction of the classrooms and student housing, furnish the facilities, and provide scholarships. Additionally, produce grown at the farm will support programs at the Sustainable Food Center, Sanchez Elementary School, and El Buen Samaritano.

Moontower Coop’s Tony Grasso will slow roast a Smith & Smith Farms hog brined with local honey, shaved pecan wood, apple scrap molasses, smoked serranos, and pickled garlic. Vegetarian and vegan options will also be available, along with assorted refreshments from local businesses that support sustainable agriculture.

Fri., July 18, 7-10pm

Getaway Motor Club, 3700 Thompson Street. $30

This article appears in July 11 • 2014.

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Anna Toon hails from West Texas and is a graduate of Texas Tech University. She writes about craft beer and sustainable agriculture – an ardent investigator of the good things in life.