Field Days Frequently Asked Questions
Are walk-ins allowed at DAPFD?
Yes, Absolutely.
The Friday intensives have a smaller group size to ensure everyone has a chance to fully participate. We encourage folks to sign up ahead of time to make sure we can have a place for everyone.
Where is DAPFD?
Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, VT
How do I sign up for Friday Intensives?
Keep your eyes peeled to our website, your email and social media for the 2026 Intensives announcement.
Can I pay with a check?
Yes! If you’d like to pay with a check, please email dapnetinfo@gmail.com and tell us 1) What days you would like to come and how many people are coming 2) What sliding scale level you want to use 3) If you are a DAPNet member 4) Your name, email address and phone number 5) Your meal preferences (if you’re coming Friday or Saturday.) Then we can tell you the amount to pay.
Make checks payable to “The Draft Animal Power Network”
Send them to: DAPNet P.O. Box 24 Greenwich NY 12834
Which day should I go to?
That depends upon what you want to experience! We recommend Friday for those who are extremely interested in furthering their knowledge and skills with draft animals in a particular area (e.g. forestry, farming, working/caring for draft horses, working/caring for oxen, equipment fabrication and large animal rescue). The higher price of this daylong experience reflects the level of educational opportunity.
We recommend Saturday to those who haven’t narrowed down their interests yet and want to experience a little bit of everything. And since camping is free and lots of fun networking happens Saturday evening, you should definitely stay for Sunday’s homemade breakfast and fun workshops!
Is camping available?
Yes! There is free onsite camping in a field close(ish) to the goings on. There is no electric or water for campers. Bring your tent, sleep in your car/truck or bring a camper.
Is there somewhere to stay locally if I don’t want to camp?
Yes, there are a number of different Hotels within 30 minutes driving distance from Shelburne Farms.
What languages are the presentations given in?
All presentations and demonstrations will be in English. However, we often have some French speaking presenters and participants who may be able to help translate or explain things in French.
The cost of admission is giving me hesitation about attending DAPFD even with the volunteer rebate. What should I do?
We want Field Days to be accessible to as many people as possible. This year we have implemented a sliding scale payment system.
Friday and Saturday admission includes lunch and dinner. If you would rather bring your own food, please let the folks at the registration table when you arrive and we can refund you the cost of your meals.
Do I need to have experience with draft animals prior to coming to DAPFD?
Complete beginners are VERY welcome. We recommend you take one of our beginner intensive courses on Friday October 2nd, 2026 or join us for Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 if you’d like to see many different demonstrations and attend different workshops.
We aim to offer enough diversity of information on Friday and Saturday that you could leave with at least a basic understanding of driving, training, farm and woods work, basic equipment, and hoof care.
Are dogs allowed?
NO!
We love dogs, but we ask that you leave all pets behind. This is an event with many working animals and bringing your pet could infringe on the safety of our working animals, teamsters, and attendees.
What food is available at Field Days?
We will have lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday provided. You can select your food choice when you register. There are omnivore, gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, and dairy free options. Sunday morning is Teamster Breakfast. All are welcome. Payment is by donation ($10-15 suggested.)
Is there parking onsite?
YES, there is free parking onsite.
What are the seating options at Field Days?
We have tables and chairs (and tea and coffee!) in a covered area for eating meals, taking a break, and doing some socializing. The seating options for the outside workshops are limited and we encourage folks to bring their favorite camp chair or cushion for when your legs get tired.
Is DAPFD suitable for families and/or children?
DAPFD is very family and youth friendly. Young people and a chaperone have free admission Saturday and Sunday (but please RSVP so we know to prepare for you.) With questions send us an email at dapnetinfo@gmail.com.