Source: Amy Armbruster, Carolina Farm Stewardship Association, 12/6/12
MEDIA ADVISORY:
Organic Commodities and Livestock Conference
Helps Farmers Break into Organics Market
Rocky Mount - Organics are booming and the 4th Annual Organic Commodities and Livestock Conference, happening Feb. 14-15, 2013, gives farmers a unique opportunity to learn from the experts about how to grow organically and manage livestock sustainably.
Organic is one of the most dynamic and fast-growing segments of the U.S. agricultural market today. The organic industry is worth $28.6 billion (2010), and in North Carolina, demand for organics far outstrips production. According to NC State University, N.C. imports more than 90% of the organic products it sells, even though many of these products can be grown in-state. As commodity programs are eliminated, more farmers are becoming interested in organic production as a legitimate way to keep their farms profitable.
“People in the Carolinas are demanding more local, organic food choices. The Organic Commodities and Livestock Conference is a great opportunity for conventional and sustainable farmers and ranchers to learn more about how to break into this growing market,” says Roland McReynolds, CFSA’s Executive Director.
The conference features workshops on organic grain varieties, organic tobacco production, holistic vet care, soil fertility, and organic disease management. The $35 Conference registration includes lunch, keynote address, multiple workshops, and an evening reception on Feb. 15. The conference keynote speaker is Thor Oeschner, owner of Oeschner Farms in Newfield, NY. Mr. Oeschner will enlighten, energize and surely make us laugh as he shares his story about running his 300 acre farm, a mill, and a bakery.This year, for the first time, there will also be two free on-farm workshops. These pre-conference workshops happen Thursday, Feb. 14 at Lindale Dairy a certified organic dairy in Snow Camp, NC and at Hocutt Farms, a certified organic vegetable farm in Sims, NC.
For a complete list of conference offerings or to register for an on-farm workshop or the full conference, please visit: www.carolinafarmstewards.org/oclc. The registration deadline is Feb. 4, 2013.
What: 4th Annual Organic Commodities and Livestock Conference
When: Feb. 14-15, 2013
Where:
Feb. 14 – On-farm workshops at Lindale Dairy a certified organic dairy in Snow Camp, NC and at Hocutt Farms, a certified organic vegetable farm in Sims, NC.
Feb. 15 – Conference in Rocky Mount, NC at Brown Auditorium Business & Industry Center at Nash Community College
Who: Organic, Transitioning-to-Organic and Conventional Farmers and Ranchers, Agriculture Professionals and Commodities Groups interested in learning more about organic commodities and sustainable livestock and vegetable production
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