Know Before You Go

We are very excited to welcome you to our inaugural New Biology Experience event next week. As you plan your trip, we encourage all attendees to carefully review the information herein to maximize your comfort and enjoyment during the conference.

SEATING:

  • Folding chairs and hay bales will be available for seating at the event. Optional: Bring blankets/yoga mats/your own chairs for grounding/movement/comfort.

 

CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR/RAINGEAR:

  • Wear shoes appropriate for a farm environment with grass, dirt, gravel and mud. Consider bringing separate mud boots.
  • Wear casual, comfortable clothing you can move in and dress in layers to accommodate chilly mornings/evenings and protection from hot sun (sleeves, hats/bandanas, etc.)
  • Bring rain gear if the weather calls for rain. The event spaces are covered, but the entire event takes place outdoors.

 

CELL/INTERNET:

  • Cell Service is spotty in the mountains and there is no wired internet or wifi. Please plan accordingly.
  • A limited number of products sold by Dr. Cowan will be available for purchase. Cash and checks accepted.
  • Print out directions to and from your lodging to the farm as a back up before getting in your vehicle to drive to the farm. In the event your GPS loses signal in the mountains, those printed directions will keep you going the right way!

 

FOOD/GAS/CASH:

  • Polyface Farm and the surrounding area is rural, and access to food for purchase, cash machines, gas, etc. is limited. Do not plan on being able to find food, banks or gas stations close by. Do any shopping and/or banking and gas up your vehicles before traveling from your hotel(s) in town (Staunton or surrounding area) before traveling up the mountain to the farm or to any rural lodging you may have booked.
  • Please review the menu on the website and plan ahead before finalizing your dining plans. Meals are complimentary for all attendees and provided for your convenience. However, the farm is not able to handle special dietary requests.
  • Bring food and snacks if you have special dietary needs that are not met by the menu provided  (lunch, dinner, coffee, tea and water provided).
  • Polyface Farm store will be open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The store (and the farm) is closed on Sundays.
  • Polyface Farm’s store keeps kombucha in stock. Additional food offerings are limited but may include snacks such as chips and cheese, along with occasional specialty items like chocolate milk, regular milk, sausages such as chorizo, and other farm products. If you plan to purchase refrigerated items, we recommend bringing a cooler with ice to help keep your products at a safe temperature for travel home.

 

AREA ATTRACTIONS:

  • If you plan to extend the trip and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, please note that Polyface Farm is closed on Sundays, but there are many local attractions in the area, especially outdoor adventures.

 

DOG POLICY:

  • In general, Polyface allows dogs on property, provided they are fully controlled (leashed and managed), use designated areas for elimination and are kept away from farm animals (working dogs) and livestock. Attendees are fully responsible for their dogs and must safeguard their dogs and the humans and animals around them at all times.