ST. PAUL -- Minnesota farmers and others interested in the organic industry shouldn't miss the opportunity to get insider information at the 2010 Minnesota Organic Conference and Trade Show, Jan. 15 and 16 at the St. Cloud Civic Center.
Attendees will hear first-hand from David Vetter, an organic farming pioneer whose family adopted organic farming methods in 1953. Syndicated agriculture journalist Alan Guebert is also on tap to share his opinions and observations and registered dietician Angie Tagtow will discuss the public health benefits of sustainable food systems. In addition, you'll get to know organic farmers from all corners of the state who attend the conference.
The conference also offers scores of breakout sessions on weed management, soil health, crop variety selection, vegetable seed saving, food preservation, starting a CSA "subscription" farm, organic farm inspections, and discussions on the outlook for organic agriculture. Experienced farmer presenters are featured speakers in almost every breakout.
Registration costs $120 for the two-day conference and $85 for those who want to attend only one day. There are further discounts for additional people from the same farming operation. The cost includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks prepared with organic ingredients (such as winter pot roast with root vegetables, roasted heirloom squash, and apple crisp with oatmeal, black walnuts, and cinnamon ice cream) specially sourced from Minnesota and Wisconsin farmers. While registrations will be accepted at the door, same-day registrants will not be guaranteed meals, so prior registration is strongly encouraged.
The full conference program and registration forms are available at the MDA web site www.mda.state.mn.us/food/organic or by calling 651-201-6012.
