Organic Grower Summit looking at ag tech, soil health and market trends
The Organic Grower Summit, set for Dec. 4-5, announced a comprehensive lineup of expert-led seminars, industry-leading speakers and a special keynote panel, opened by California Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the evolving organic market, including education on the latest ag tech, soil health innovations and government regulations.
The event’s keynote panel, featuring Western Growers Association President and CEO Dave Puglia, will provide insights on the future of organic farming. The luncheon will also feature the prestigious Grower of the Year Award, presented by Fendt.
Sponsored by the International Fresh Produce Association, Certis Biologicals and Bank of America, the OGS seminar program will offer seven sessions exploring topics like:
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Will ag tech make organic farms more profitable? Features moderator Walt Duflock, Western Growers Association; panelists Bartley Walker, Pacific Ag Rentals; Daniel Bernstein, HawkTower; and Larry Jacobs, Jacobs Farm Del Cabo.
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Regenerating soil health with organic practices Features moderator Brise Tencer, Organic Farming Research Foundation; panelists Eric Brennan, USDA Agricultural Research Service; Karen Lowell, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; and Scott Park, Park Farming Organics.
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A whole systems approach to managing pests and weeds? A rundown on best practices. Features moderator: Vonnie Estes, International Fresh Produce Association; panelist: Eric Morgan, Braga Fresh; Doug Currier, Organic Materials Review Institute; Kim Horton, Taylor Farming; and Gina Colfer, Wilbur Ellis Ag.
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Organic, regenerative or both: What does the market want? Grower and retailer point of view Features moderator Eric Morgan, Braga Fresh; panelists Ann Marie Hourigan, Whole Foods Market; La Rhea Pepper, Textile Exchange; Tim Nuss, Nuss Farms; and Thaddeus Barsotti, Capay Organic.
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How's SOE going so far? A closer look at USDA's Strengthening Organic Enforcement rule Features panelists Jenny Tucker, National Organic Program; John McKeon, Taylor Farms; Connie Karr, Accredited Certifiers Association; and Merideth Kiser, Heath & Lejeune.
Matt Jungmann, national events director at Farm Progress, said, "This year’s revamped schedule gives Organic Grower Summit attendees a unique chance to connect with industry experts in the field and on the retail side, explore new innovations and learn how to make their operations more efficient and profitable."
