Millsap Farms Walk: Building Soil Health on the Market Farm
2024-05-15 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Millsap Farms, 6593 N Emu Lane, Springfield, MO, 65803, United States
Join Springfield Community Gardens and Millsap Farms as we tour the compost piles, deep mulched beds, and pigerator on Millsap Farms, as Curtis shares their philosophy and approach to soil building in their market gardens for abundant harvests of cut flowers and vegetables.
No registration is necessary for this in person event. Please be sure to bring a water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and bug repellent if you desire.
Visit website at Springfield Community Gardens for additional information: https://www.springfieldcommunitygardens.org/events/millsap-farms-walk-building-soil-health-on-the-market-farm
Visit Millsap Farms website for additional information: https://www.millsapfarms.com/

Introduction to Language Justice (Bilingual) - Norfolk, Neb.
2024-05-21 12:00 - 16:00 | Norfolk Public Library, 308 Prospect Ave, Norfolk, NE, 68701, United States
About: Does your organization or business have difficulty communicating with non-English-speaking audiences? You can increase participation opportunities and community engagement by eliminating language and cultural barriers at meetings, focus groups, and events, all while creating a bigger impact.
During this event you will explore historical language oppression and learn the key elements of language justice, how to use Zoom interpretation and interpretation devices, how to model language justice in community settings, and much more.
¿Su organización o empresa tiene dificultades para comunicarse con audiencias que no hablan inglés? Eliminar las barreras lingüísticas y culturales en reuniones, grupos focales y eventos importantes puede aumentar las oportunidades de participación y el compromiso comunitario dentro de su organización, al tiempo que crea un mayor impacto.
Durante este evento, explorará la opresión histórica del lenguaje, aprenderá los elementos clave de la justicia lingüística, aprenderá a utilizar la interpretación y los dispositivos de interpretación Zoom, modelará la justicia lingüística en entornos comunitarios y mucho más.

Cost: Free

When: Tuesday, May 21, from noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Norfolk Public Library, 308 Prospect Ave., Norfolk
Registration is required for this event (by Monday, May 13). Click here to register.
Questions/assistance with registering: Contact Nina Lanuza at ninal@cfra.org or 402.380.0785
Sponsor: The Center for Rural Affairs
All Center for Rural Affairs events and activities are open to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities and/or persons with limited English proficiency (LEP) will be made if requested in advance.

Special Farm Tour at Sankara Farm - KC, MO
2024-05-23 16:00 - 18:00 | Sankara Farm, 7419 Murkins Rd, Kansas City, MO, 64133, United States
Join New Growth Mo Food Systems as we host a special Farm Tour at Sankara Farm, a 27-acre, Black Family owned and operated Agroecological farm positioned in the natural beauty of the Little Blue River Valley in the unceded Ancestral lands of the Osage, Otoe-Missouria, Kaw and Kansa Peoples.
The farm hosts a wide range of AfroEcological programming and operates as the organizational hub of several local projects directly engaged with Black food sovereignty and Agroecology. We aspire to uphold the traditional ecological knowledge of our ancestors and create radical socioecological interventions that benefit people and planet. Our on farm workshops and education focus on Food Sovereignty, Agroecology and Cultural production. The Returning Generation Black Farmer Fellowship, Community Soil Science Cooperative and Black Emancipatory Agriculture Asset Map each are an innovative approach to uplifting soil health, Black Agrarian traditions and envisioning a future for Black farmers.
What to see/expect on the farm:
• Agroecological production beds
• Perennial Pollinator Habitats
• Mutulu Shakur Herbal Garden
• AgTech demonstrations: Microcontrollers and sensors
• Culturally relevant agrotourism
• Art and cultural production
• Walking trail & Ponds Currently under construction:
• Agrovoltaic production demonstration
• Perennial test beds – Kernza
• Soil remediation with mushrooms
• Ecological waste and greywater management
Learn more about Sankara Farm at https://www.sankarafarm.com
For more information on this event, email Bridget Luff, New Growth’s Food Systems Farm Outreach Coordinator at bluff@wcmcaa.org

Small Ag Producer Workshop Series
2024-06-08 13:00 - 16:00 | Warrensburg -University of Central Missouri, 400 South Maguire Street, Warrensburg, Missouri, 64093
Multiple Times and Locations: Each of the locations content will be identical and participants need to only attend one location. Lunch is provided. Warrensburg location listed for your convenience but please visit website for additional information and locations.
Are you a value-added agricultural producer looking to enhance your digital communications and marketing skills? Participate in the Small Ag Producer Workshop – Connecting with Customers to learn more about how online communications can grow your business!
This workshop is presented by Missouri State University Darr College of Agriculture and University of Central Missouri Department of Agriculture.
This workshop will cover:

How social media and website design drive sales
Benefits of free and low-cost scheduling platforms
The Basics of analytics
Utilizing ever-changing algorithms

Workshop Location and Time:

June 8, 2024: Warrensburg, UCM Campus, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
June 12, 2024: West Plains, Ozarks Small Business Incubator, Noon – 3 p.m.
June 13, 2024: Springfield, Darr Agriculture Center, Noon – 3 p.m.
June 14, 2024: Mountain Grove, Furit Experimentation Station, Noon – 3 p.m.

There is no cost to participate but participants are asked to pre-register. Registration and more information can be found at https://rb.gy/zc7fjz.

Community Food Systems + Farm to School and Early Care Conference
2024-06-13 09:00 - 2024-06-14 16:15 | Graduate Iowa City, 210 S Dubuque Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Join us in Iowa City, June 13-14!
This annual event is hosted by the Community Food Systems program and Iowa Farm to School and Early Care Coalition. This year’s theme is Rooted in Community: Growing Partnerships for Sustainable Food Systems. Join us for this unique, two-day event, celebrating food systems, farm to school and early care, and local food.
Early Bird Registration: April 1-15, 2024
Regular registration will be open April 16 – May 31, 2024.
It is our goal that the conference is accessible and inclusive. Individuals are encouraged to register for the full, two-day conference, but because that may not be feasible for all attendees, registrants can select which days or conference sections they would like to attend. Details and fees link is below.
Have a scholarship?
If you submitted a scholarship request, please do not register until you have heard back on the status of your scholarship.
General Attendance and Cost Options, Early Bird Fees, and Lodging Information:
Please visit website for details: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/ffed/cfs-annual-event
For info, please contact:

Bre Miller

millerb@iastate.edu
(515) 294-3086

2024 Agritourism Conference
2024-07-14 - 2024-07-16 | Best Western on the River, 401 N 3rd Street, Hannibal, MO, 63401, United States
Sunday, July 14
4 – 6 p.m. — Registration
6 p.m. — Reception & Dinner
Monday, July 15
7 a.m. – 9 p.m. — Bus Tour (Additional locations to be added):

Show Me HH Farms
Peno Creek Pumpkin Patch
Sweetwater Distillery
The Orchard

Tuesday, July 16
8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Workshop Schedule TBA
Registration Fee: $150/person, includes Sunday reception/dinner, Monday bus tour, lunch and dinner, and Tuesday program sessions and lunch. Individuals may participate in only Monday’s bus tour ($80) or the Tuesday workshops ($70). Registration is available online through Wednesday, July 10.

Hotel Details: Best Western On the River || 401 N 3rd St, Hannibal, MO 63401 || (573) 248-1150

Vendors: Limited vendor spaces are available at the host hotel during dinner on Sunday evening and throughout the workshop sessions on Tuesday afternoon. Contact Julie Waldrop (julie.waldrop@mofb.org // 573.893.1417) to reserve a space.
Contact Davin Althoff (davin.althoff@mofb.org // 573-893-1416) for additional details regarding the conference.

Marketing Your Farm with Gooseberry Bridge Farm
2024-08-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Gooseberry Bridge Farm, 177 Elm Grove Rd, Rogersville, MO, 65742, United States
Wednesday, August 7 from 6-8 PM
177 Elm Grove Rd, Rogersville, MO 65742
Marketing your farm and farm products takes time and effort outside of normal production duties. This farm’s strong online presence boasts over 175K followers across social media platforms. They also offer educational classes and a plant start CSA, all while homeschooling six children! This workshop will discuss Gooseberry Bridge Farm’s approach to creating online content and communicating with customers via social media and their website.
No registration is necessary for this in person event, however selecting ‘Going’ on the Facebook event is helpful for planning purposes. https://www.facebook.com/share/SUvoGEYTxkeLoUdE/
Please be sure to bring a water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and bug repellent if you desire.
Funding for Farmer Trainings to Support Specialty Crop Production in the Ozarks was made possible by a grant/cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.

Midtown Hoedown - You're going to want to SAVE THE DATE for this party, friends!
2024-09-14 17:00 - 21:00 | Longfellow Farm, 922 E. 30th, Kansas City, MO, 64109, United States
Planning is underway for our bigger and better Midtown Hoedown. This event is a family friendly, farm-centered folk dance perfect for farming and food enthusiasts of ALL ages. The highlight of the party is the gender-inclusive square dance with music by Halfsider, an old-time string band featuring Tricia Spencer, Howard Rains, Isaiah Sibi, and Rachel Krause. The dances are all taught on the spot – no experience is necessary.
This year attendees will also enjoy games, a small farm animal petting zoo, educational demonstrations, a pop-up farmers market, and delicious food and beverages for all ages. We’re even on the hunt for a couple amazing raffle prizes. Western wear is highly encouraged. Lively fun is mandatory!
It’s a celebration of urban farming and the diversity of the food in the soil and the folks who grow and eat it!
September 14th, 2024
5:00 – 9:00 pm
Longfellow Farm
922 E. 30th, KCMO
Admission is $25, children 12 and under are free.
Tickets include admission to the dance, free kettle corn and beverages for adults and children.
Tickets go on sale 8/1/24!

Inaugural Laclede County Ag Summit and Expo
2024-10-02 13:00 - 16:00 | The Exchange at Wall Street Cattle Company, 4900 Highway KK, Lebanon, MO, 65536, United States
This is a free, half-day program hosted by MU Extension. It provides access to essential resources and educational opportunities for Laclede County and area farmers, farm supporters, hobby farmers, future farmers, cooperative farming groups, and other stakeholders in one location. Plan to attend and experience great resources to help you improve and expand your agricultural operation.
Visit with Bill McKelvey, MU Extension: Bill will share information about how food and farm businesses can connect with the Heartland Regional Food Business Center, a 5-state initiative focused on helping businesses that serve local and regional markets start-up and expand through networking, technical assistance, and small grants. Additional MU Extension food and farm business resources will be shared as well.
Visit with Anna Maria Desipris, Sun and Bloom Farms: Anna Maria is the co-founder of Sun And Bloom, a regenerative organic and permaculture diversified educational farm in Lebanon Missouri. For the community, they grow veggies, herbs, flowers and fruits and raise chickens and turkeys for eggs and meat, as well as dairy goats and pigs. Additionally, the farm hosts workshops and courses for gardeners, homesteaders, farmers and culinary enthusiasts, as well as children farm education, farm to tale events and community seasonal festivals. Anna Maria will share about the farm’s approaches to becoming a regional hub of all things regenerative organic agriculture and permaculture.
Wednesday, October 2nd
1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The Exchange at Wall Street Cattle Company
4900 Highway KK – Lebanon, MO, 65536
For additional information, please visit: https://lacledecountymoagtour.org/agribusiness-summit%2Fexpo

Harvest Your Brand: A SKF Marketing Workshop for Growers in Hutchinson
2024-10-03 10:00 - 15:00 | Dillon Nature Center Community Room, 3002 E. 30th Ave, Hutchison, KS, 67502, United States
This half-day engaging and informative workshop is designed specifically for growers who want to elevate their brand and connect more effectively with consumers. Hosted by Shop Kansas Farms, this workshop will provide you with the tools and strategies needed to build a strong brand presence and market your products successfully.
What You’ll Learn

Branding Basics: Understand the fundamentals of creating a memorable and impactful brand.
Perfecting the Pitch: Develop your pitch that will help you broaden your consumer base.
Social Media Savvy: Learn how to leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
Fame at the Farmers Market: Master what it takes to have an engaging and memorable booth at the farmers market.

Who Should Attend
This workshop is ideal for farmers, growers and agricultural entrepreneurs looking to enhance their marketing skills and build a recognizable brand.
Date and Time: Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (lunch is included)
Location: Dillon Nature Center Community Room, 3002 E. 30th Ave in Hutchinson, Kansas.
Registration: Farm Bureau members of Kansas pay $50 and non-members pay $75. If you’re not a Farm Bureau member, you can join at www.kfb.org/join. Register for event here: https://form.jotform.com/kfbforms/FtoC-workshops
Don’t miss this opportunity to harvest the full potential of your brand and take your marketing efforts to the next level. Sign up today and start your journey towards greater recognition and success!

HACCP Workshop
2024-10-07 08:00 - 2024-10-09 17:00 | Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
When: October 7 & 9, 2024 (2.5 days)
Where: Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, Missouri 65201
Format: In person
The National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF), USDA, and FDA highly recommend implementing an HACCP plan in a food processing plant to ensure food safety from harvest to consumption.
Dr. Lakshmikantha ‘Kantha’ Channaiah, state extension specialist in food processing and an assistant professor in the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) will lead the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) training.
This in-person course helps food professionals learn the latest food safety issues that affect their products as well as how to develop an effective HACCP plan.
Registration cost: $500.
This event is limited to 30 participants.
An early bird discount of $50 for registrants who register before September 30, 2024.
Registration link: https://extension.missouri.edu/events/haccp-workshop-0
Channaiah is a leading food safety expert with more than 20 years of experience in teaching, training, and research. The course is accredited by the International HACCP Alliance.
Lunch will be provided on Oct 8 and 9, 2024.
A certificate with the International HACCP Alliance seal will be presented to participants at the end of the course.
Partners:
Dept. Food Science, MAFFIC and MU Extension.

Latina Women's Business Conference: Creating a Legacy (Only in Spanish)
2024-10-08 09:00 - 15:00 | Fremont City Auditorium, 925 N Broad St, Fremont, NE, 68025, United States
Session: Join us for a unique event in Spanish that brings together women leaders, companies and professionals from various sectors. This meeting aims to empower you with tools and resources to build and strengthen your professional and personal path. Through inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops and networking opportunities, you’ll have the chance to learn from industry experts, share experiences and make valuable connections.
We invite everyone, men and women, to join us in celebrating the talent and tenacity of Latinas as we build a legacy of success and leadership together.
For additional information: https://secure.everyaction.com/TXSZvrSod0KP1vdS_IrGIA2
Date: Tuesday, October 8, 2024 from 9 am to 3 pm Registration opens at 8 am
Cost: Pre-registration is $35 before October 7 and $40 at the door on the day of the event. This includes lunch.
Location: Fremont City Auditorium, 925 N Broad St, Fremont, NE 68025
Register by October 7th. To register, click here .
Questions: Brissa Borjas Esparza at 402.870.2749 or brissabe@cfra.org
Sponsored by: Centre for Rural Affairs
Translation:
Sesión: Únase a nosotros para un evento único en español que reúne a mujeres líderes, empresas y profesionales de diversos sectores.
Este encuentro tiene como objetivo empoderarle con herramientas y recursos para construir y fortalecer su camino profesional y personal.
A través de discursos inspiradores, talleres interactivos y oportunidades para establecer contactos, tendrás la oportunidad de aprender de expertos del sector, compartir experiencias y establecer conexiones valiosas.
Invitamos a todos, hombres y mujeres, a unirse a nosotros para celebrar el talento y la tenacidad de las mujeres latinas mientras creamos juntos un legado de éxito y liderazgo.
Fecha: Martes, 8 de octubre de 2024 de 9 am a 3 pm La inscripción se abre a las 8 am
Costo: El costo de preinscripción es $35 antes del 7 de octubre y $40 en la puerta el día del evento. Esto incluye el almuerzo.
Lugar: Auditorio de la ciudad de Fremont, 925 N Broad St, Fremont, NE 68025
Inscríbase antes del 7 de octubre. Para inscribirse, Haga clic here.
Preguntas: Brissa Borjas Esparza al 402.870.2749 o brissabe@cfra.org
Patrocinado por: Centro de Asuntos Rurales

Applied Food Safety Microbiology Training
2024-10-17 08:00 - 2024-10-18 12:30 | Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Microbial control programs play a key role in controlling spoilage, toxigenic, and pathogenic microorganisms in a variety of raw and finished food products. Food Drug and Administration (FDA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) regulations, audit programs, and customer requirements are driving the need for food processors to develop sound microbial control programs that address microbial issues in their products. This course aids food processors in gaining knowledge of the latest microbiological food safety issues that affect their products, as well as developing and implementing effective control programs assuring food safety. Besides implementing an efficient food safety program, this training will enable food processors to explore new markets, particularly a more lucrative and profitable food market beyond the county and state limits. Participants will acquire basic food safety microbiology knowledge and will be able to address common micro issues using an environmental monitoring program and preventive control strategies.
Target audience: small and medium-scale food (fruits, vegetables, canners, & meat) processors, quality assurance and quality control personnel, line supervisors, operators, sanitation supervisors, quality managers, farmers doing business in farmers market, canning professionals, and managers.
Instructor: Kantha Channaiah, a leading food safety expert with over 20 years of experience in teaching, training, and research, will be the main instructor for this course.
A certificate will be presented to participants at the end of the course.
Duration: 1.5 days
Timings: Day 1: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Day 2: 8:00 am to 12:30 pm.
When: October 17 & 18, 2024 (1.5 days)
Where: Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, Missouri 65201
Registration cost: Free for Missourians (Out of state Missourians pay $450)
https://extension.missouri.edu/events/applied-food-safety-microbiology
Partners:
Dept. Food Science, MAFFIC and MU Extension.

Harvest Your Brand: A SKF Marketing Workshop for Growers in Olathe
2024-10-17 10:00 - 15:00 | K-State Olathe Room, 22201 W Innovation Dr, Rm 223B, Olathe, KS, 66061, United States
This half-day engaging and informative workshop is designed specifically for growers who want to elevate their brand and connect more effectively with consumers. Hosted by Shop Kansas Farms, this workshop will provide you with the tools and strategies needed to build a strong brand presence and market your products successfully.
What You’ll Learn

Branding Basics: Understand the fundamentals of creating a memorable and impactful brand.
Perfecting the Pitch: Develop your pitch that will help you broaden your consumer base.
Social Media Savvy: Learn how to leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
Fame at the Farmers Market: Master what it takes to have an engaging and memorable booth at the farmers market.

Who Should Attend
This workshop is ideal for farmers, growers and agricultural entrepreneurs looking to enhance their marketing skills and build a recognizable brand.
Date and Time: Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (lunch is included)
Location: K-State Olathe Room 223B, 22201 W Innovation Dr in Olathe
Registration: Farm Bureau members of Kansas pay $50 and non-members pay $75. If you’re not a Farm Bureau member, you can join at www.kfb.org/join. Register for the workshop here: https://form.jotform.com/kfbforms/FtoC-workshops
Don’t miss this opportunity to harvest the full potential of your brand and take your marketing efforts to the next level. Sign up today and start your journey towards greater recognition and success!

Nebraska Farm to School Summit
2024-10-17 12:00 - 2024-10-18 14:00 | Holiday Inn Kearney, 110 2nd Ave Kearney, Kearney, NE, 68847, United States
The Nebraska Farm to School program enriches the connection communities have with fresh, healthy food and local food producers by changing food purchasing and education practices at schools and early care and education settings.
There are three core elements of Farm to School: Procurement, Education, and School Gardens. Farm to School works to provide resources to promote local Nebraska grown and raised products in the classroom, cafeteria, and community.

Nebraska Farm to School Summit Registration Now Open!
Join us for the Nebraska Farm to School Summit at the Holiday Inn Kearney (110 2nd Ave Kearney, NE 68847) on October 17-18, 2024. The conference will begin at 12:00 PM on Thursday October 17 and conclude at 2 PM on Friday October 18. Registration includes dinner on Thursday and breakfast and lunch on Friday. Register here: http://bit.ly/4bNAfL2
All farm to school stakeholders are welcome! This includes farmers and producers, school food service staff, educators, school administrators, early care and education providers, community members, local agency representatives, non-profits, and more! Convene with other farm to school stakeholders from across the state to share, learn, and collaborate.
At the event, we will launch our statewide Nebraska Farm to School Network and walk you through resources to stay connected with Farm to School year-round. The agenda is complete with keynote speakers, breakout sessions for deeper dives into Farm to School concepts, and plenty of opportunities for networking. This summit will give you the resources, support, and connections you need to make your life easier.

Better Process Control School (Acidified Foods) Training
2024-10-24 08:00 - 2024-10-25 12:30 | Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
The Better Process Control School (Acidified Foods) is an FDA-recognized course providing instruction primarily for operators, supervisors and manufacturers meeting the requirements stated in 21 CFR 114.10 and 21 CFR 108.25. The training is tailored for operators or manufacturers who produce thermally processed acidified foods. Those who complete the course will receive a Certificate of Course Completion to fulfill the training requirement of the FDA Acidified regulation.
Course Duration: 1.5 days
Timings: Oct 24, 2024: 8:00am to 5:00pm and Oct 25, 2024: 8:30am to 12:30pm. Lunch will be provided on day 1 (Oct 24, 2024).
Detailed information: https://extension.missouri.edu/events/better-process-control-school-acidified-foods-training
Examination:
There will be exams on the topics covered in the course immediately following the lecture. Exams are based on the FDA-approved standardized curriculum. A minimum score of =70% for each exam is needed to pass the school. Exams are open book and multiple choice and will be through Qualtrics. Upon successful completion of the school, participants will receive a certificate and their names will be submitted to the FDA. Participants who fail to secure a minimum 70% score may not be able to receive the Certificate of Course Completion.
Cost: $450
Contact: Lakshmikantha Channaiah, lchannaiah@missouri.edu, 573-882-2673
Partners:
Dept. Food Science, MU-Extension and MAFFIC.

Introduction to Language Justice (bilingual) - Grand Island, Neb.
2024-10-31 09:00 - 13:00 | Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W. Second St., Grand Island, NE, United States
Does your organization or business have difficulty communicating with non-English-speaking audiences? You can increase participation opportunities and community engagement by eliminating language and cultural barriers at meetings, focus groups, and events, all while creating a bigger impact.
During this event you will explore historical language oppression and learn the key elements of language justice, how to use Zoom interpretation and interpretation devices, how to model language justice in community settings, and much more.
Cost: Free
When: Thursday, Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W. Second St., Grand Island, Nebraska
Registration is required for this event by Wednesday, Oct. 30. Click here to register.
Questions/assistance with registering: Contact Nina Lanuza at ninal@cfra.org or 402.380.0785
Sponsor: The Center for Rural Affairs

Missouri Farmers Union 2024 Annual Meeting Featuring Will Harris
2024-11-07 16:00 - 20:00 | Bradford Research Farm, 4968 S Rangeline Rd, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Missouri Farmers Union will host our 2024 Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7th at the Bradford Research Farm in Columbia.
Bradford Research Farm
4968 S Rangeline Road
Columbia, MO 65201

Join us for good programming and better company!
$30 per ticket for MOFU members
$60 per ticket for non-members
Purchase tickets here: https://checkout.eventcreate.com/missouri-farmers-union-am24/select-buy
EVENT SCHEDULE
4:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Networking Happy Hour & Book Signing
4:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Welcome, MOFU President Tom Coudron
4:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Dr. Babu Valliyodan, Lincoln University, Hemp: Your Next Cash Crop
5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Will Harris, White Oak Pastures, Regenerative Ag
6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Dinner by Peachtree Catering
7:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Katie Nixon, Heartland Regional Food, Business Builder Grant
7:15 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Panel Discussion with Will Harris and Local Regenerative Ag Leaders
Panelists:
– Will Harris, White Oak Pastures
– Greg Judy, Green Pastures Farm
– Bill Sullivan, Sullivan Farms
– Liz Graznak, Happy Hollow Farm
– Emily Wright, Three Creeks Farm and Forest
See you there!

Southwest Iowa Local Food Summit
2024-11-08 09:00 - 16:00 | Liberty Memorial Community Center, 501 Main St, Malvern, IA, United States
About: Join us Nov. 8 for the second annual Southwest Iowa Local Foods Summit featuring educational sessions from regional speakers, businesses along Malvern’s Main Street, locally sourced food, and networking opportunities.
Session topics will include:

Farm to school
Rural grocery store initiatives
Breakouts for local farmers on production and marketing

The summit will also include:

Free breakfast and lunch (catered by Classic Cafe in Malvern)
Exhibitor booths and farm stands for community members to gather resources and shop
Real-time interpretation from English to Spanish will be available

Cost: free
Register by Friday, Nov. 1. To register, click here.
When: Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Liberty Memorial Community Center, 501 Main St., Malvern, Iowa
Questions/assistance contact: Angelyn Wang at angelynw@cfra.org or 402.870.1721
Hosted by: Center for Rural Affairs and Golden Hills RC&D

Anti-Poverty Advocates Summit
2024-11-12 08:00 - 2024-11-13 17:00 | Stoney Creek Hotel, Columbia, MO, 2601 S Providence Rd, Columbia, MO, 65203, United States
For over 120 years Empower Missouri has brought together a team of anti-poverty advocates to learn together, make connections, and advance our mission. Our 2024 Anti-Poverty Advocates Summit will be held in at Stoney Creek Hotel in Columbia, Missouri on November 12th and 13th. You won’t want to miss it!
Attendees will receive training, support and inspiration to advocate on affordable housing, criminal legal system reform, food security, and other anti-poverty issues. We’ll have two amazing keynote presentations, from Andrea Elliott and Merideth Rose, and you’ll have access to workshops (more details here) from local and national anti-poverty organizations, and coalition meetings to finalize policy agendas for the 2025 legislative session that starts in January. Together, we will use our voices to influence policy that will bring an end to poverty.
Click Here to Read Session Descriptions
Visit the website for additional information, including membership savings, hotel, and contact: Anti-Poverty Advocates Summit – Empower Missouri

Shared Kitchen Summit in New Orleans, LA
2024-11-12 09:00 - 2024-11-15 17:00 | The Conference Center on II, 601 Poydras Street, 11th Floor, New Orleans, LA, 70130, United States
The Shared Kitchen Summit is taking place in New Orleans, LA from November 12-15. The Shared Kitchen Summit is a four-day event built by shared kitchens, for shared kitchens. More than an event, it’s become the cornerstone to swapping best practices and accessing priceless hands-on data and technical know-how for running successful shared kitchen projects and programs. Attendees will access:

Expert-led panels
1:1 mentoring
Deep dive breakout sessions
Direct connections to industry resources
Local food systems tour
Shared Kitchen 101 Pre-Summit Workshop for pre-revenue and beginning kitchens (optional)

Each year Summit organizers put out an application for scholarships from underinvested communities to attend this technical assistance-rich event. This year 56 applications were submitted and Summit organizers have been able to cover 18 attendees.
Applications were submitted from businesses across the nation, if you are interested in supporting applicants from your region by either offering support for a scholarship or connecting with individuals and businesses to provide other forms of technical support, please reach out to tyler@thefoodcorridor.com. Additionally, please also reach out if you are interested in attending the conference!
For specific ticket information, click here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thefoodcorridor/1255138

Kansas Rural Center Food and Farm Conference
2024-11-16 08:30 - 15:30 | Broadview Hotel, 400 West Douglas Avenue, Wichita, KS, 67202, United States
Saturday, November 16th | Drury Broadview Hotel | Wichita, KS | $45
Join Common Ground Producers & Growers at this year’s Kansas Rural Center (KRC) Food and Farm Conference. Each year, KRC provides current commentary on real issues that our farmers and their communities face. This year’s keynote speaker, Austin Frerick, author of Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America’s Food, will highlight the increasing dominance of big business in our food system and the need for KRC’s ongoing efforts to keep our farmers on the land and to ensure the availability of healthy local food for all Kansans.
3 FREE spots available! If you are in the Greater Wichita area reply to this email letting us know that you are interested in attending. First come, first serve.
Follow this link for more information: 2024 Annual Conference — Kansas Rural Center

Kansas Farmers Union Pre-Convention Training
2024-11-18 - 2024-11-19 | Springhill Suites Marriott, One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS, 66044, United States
November 18-19th – Pre Convention Training | SpringHill Suites Marriott One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS
Join us at the Kansas Farmers Union Pre-Convention Farmers Training Monday, November 18th from 1 PM – 6:30 PM & Tuesday, November 19th 8 AM – 5 PM. Continue your stay for the Kansas Farmers Union Convention the 20-21st, all happening in Lawrence, Kansas.
Whether you’re an experienced specialty crop grower or just starting out, the pre-convention training offers valuable insights for both urban and rural agriculture enthusiasts, community gardeners and growers. Covering topics from canning to marketing your products, you’ll gain a wealth of knowledge from industry experts across various facets of agriculture.
Scholarships are limited and will be given to those who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color who are growers, food system stakeholders, and people interested in creating an equitable food system. Scholarships include 100% of pre-convention training and hotel stay or mileage.
Apply Here!
Scholarship applications will be accepted through November 8, 2024. Applicants will be notified on November 12, 2024
Reach out to Kansas Farmers Union for more information: Home | Kansas Farmers Union

The Conscience of Agriculture - Kansas Farmers Union's 2024 State Convention
2024-11-20 09:00 - 2024-11-21 15:00 | One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS, 66044, United States
Join us for our annual state convention where you’ll hear from wonderful speakers, vote on leadership and state policy, and connect with other Kansas farmers and ranchers.
Please contact Nick Levendofsky at nick@kansasfarmersunion.org if you are a beginning/emerging farmer and would like to apply for a scholarship.
Visit this link for a pdf. version of the tentative convention schedule: https://4c460b82-4bdf-4db7-94a6-d5913fab96bc.usrfiles.com/ugd/3ba50b_5c10e3fb9f0c416fbcff51d26341a765.pdf
Visit this link for prices, tickets, and more information: https://www.kansasfarmersunion.org/event-details-registration/kansas-farmers-union-2024-state-convention
Time & Location

Nov 20, 2024, 9:00 AM CST – Nov 21, 2024, 3:00 PM CST
Lawrence, One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS 66044, USA

Kansas Farmers Union
115 E. Marlin, Suite #108,

PO Box 1064McPherson, KS 67460
​Phone: 620-241-6630
Fax: 620-241-8054
Email: info@kansasfarmersunion.com

The Last-Minute Holiday Market - This year, it's okay to procrastinate.
2024-12-18 12:00 - 19:00 | WSU Hughes Metropolitan Complex, 5015 E 29th St. North., Wichita, Kansas, 67220, United States
Our Last-Minute Holiday Market on December 18, 2024, is the perfect platform to showcase your products and services to a bustling crowd of last-minute shoppers. Purposefully scheduled after Wichita State University finals but before Super Saturday (December 21) we’re targeting those procrastinators who want to find the perfect gift but just haven’t had time. Plus, Santa Claus will be stopping by the Holiday Market for photos and those last-minute wish list additions! Here’s what to expect:
• We plan to have food trucks serving lunch and dinner.
• Conveniently located at the WSU Hughes Metropolitan Complex with ample free parking.
• There are a limited number of tables are available for an additional fee or bring your own.
• Service providers must be able to sell gift certificates of some kind.
• There will be a mandatory pre-market Zoom meeting on Wednesday, December 11, at 4:00 p.m.
• Internet is not available for vendor sales processing; a signed agreement that you will not use WSU WiFi is required.
• We will encourage cash sales and plan to bring in an ATM for this purpose.
• The Kansas SBDC at WSU is unable to fund advertising for this event. However, we will actively promote it within the community. To ensure the event’s success, we kindly request that vendors contribute to the event’s promotion, such as by donating items for door prize gift baskets.
If you have any questions about the market, please contact email rebecca.ignowski@wichita.edu. Date: Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
Market Hours: Noon – 6:00 p.m. Setup: 10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Lunch: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Teardown: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Costs: $25.00 for 10′ x 10′ Booth Space $20.00 for 8′ x 8′ Booth Space $5.00 for 30″ x 6′ Table (Optional)

Great Plains Growers Conference
2025-01-09 08:00 - 2025-01-11 16:00 | Missouri Western University, 4525 Downs Drive, Saint Joseph, MO, 64507, United States
Pre-Conference WORKSHOPS January 9th conference & Trade Show January 10-11th

Welcome to the 2025 Great Plains Growers Conference!
We are excited to invite you to join us from January 9-11 for an enriching experience at the premier event for vegetable, fruit, cut flower, and specialty crop growers from across Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Each year, this 3-day conference draws 350-400 dedicated growers, ranging from full-time farm market vendors to part-time diversified horticulture producers, for a deep dive into the latest industry trends and practices.
Kick off the conference on Thursday, January 9th, with our full-day, topic-specific workshops, which are available for a separate admission fee. These focused sessions offer an opportunity to delve into specialized areas, including Hard Cider, Marketing Boot Camp, and Nut Orchards.
The main conference takes place on Friday, January 10th, and Saturday, January 11th, featuring a diverse range of educational tracks. Throughout these two days, you can attend concurrent sessions covering vital topics such as:

Business Development & Marketing
Vegetable Production
Greenhouse & Hydroponic Production
Protected Culture (Tunnels)
Integrated Pest Management
Forest Farming
S ARE Farmer Forum
Tree Fruits/Small Fruits
Organic/Regenerative Farming
Cut Flowers

In addition to the informative sessions, our conference also includes a vibrant trade show with over 40 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services in the industry.
The 2025 conference will be held from 9th -11th of January at Missouri Western University, St. Joseph, MO and will be in-person. To register and for more information, please visit: Great Plains Growers Conference – 2025 Great Plains Growers Conference
For additional information: GPGC c/o Buchanan County Extension, 4125 Mitchell Ave., St. Joseph, MO 64507, Tel. 816-279-1691 Email: Buchananco@missouri.edu
See you in January!

Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women
2025-01-21 17:00 - 20:00 | KS
Multiple Day Event – Please Read:
This four-part farm succession planning workshop series is produced through a partnership by extension professionals at Kansas State University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Purdue University. Each session will be held at in-person sites across Kansas, Nebraska, and Indiana. The program will feature a livestreamed keynote presentation and local hands-on activity to motivate participants to create farm succession plans and facilitate family and business conversations around this vital topic. Sixty-three in-person sites are available across these three states, as well as a fully online version of the program.
Program Description
According to US Census data, 70% of U.S. farmland will transfer to the next generation in the next 20 years. The impact of farms transitioning, either successfully to the next generation or unsuccessfully in the form of a land and estate sale, has implications for rural communities and rural prosperity. As farms become fewer and larger, population decline has hurt many rural areas, affecting the economic viability of more than just those directly on farms.
This hands-on evening workshop series will provide educational presentations and resources to motivate participants to start the farm transition planning process or review their current transition plan. Communication, financial, and legal aspects will all be covered. The goal is for participants to acquire knowledge they can apply directly to their own farm/ranch situation.
Participants must register for the entire 4-part series, as sessions will build upon each other.
This program is just one example of K-State Research and Extension’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. While the program is designed to highlight women’s issues in agriculture, it is open to any participant without regard to sex.
For more information, contact Robin Reid, K-State Agricultural Economics at 785-532-0964 or robinreid@ksu.edu(link is external).
Program Schedule
**Note that times listed are in Central Time Zone. For the Syracuse & Goodland locations, all session will start at 4:30 pm Mountain Time***
January 21st, 2025:
5:00 pm Registration & Dinner
5:30 pm Motivation for Succession Planning – A Personal Story
7:00 pm Local Activity/Discussion
8:00 pm End
January 28th, 2025:
5:00 pm Dinner
5:30 pm Family Communication around Estate and Transition Planning – Ashlee Westerhold and LaVell Winsor, K-State Ag Economics
7:00 pm Local Activity/Discussion
8:00 pm End
February 4th, 2025:
5:00 pm Dinner
5:30 pm Financial Aspects of Estate and Transition Plans – Jessica Groskopf, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension
7:00 pm Local Activity/Discussion
8:00 pm End
February 11th, 2025:
5:00 pm Dinner
5:30 pm Legal Aspects of Putting Your Plan into Place – Holly Dobbs, Esq., Dobbs & Folz, LLC
7:00 pm Local Activity/Discussion
8:00 pm End
Registration Information
The registration fee for in-person attendance is $60.00 before Jan. 12th, 2025, which includes all four nights meals and educational materials. The fee increases to $75.00 after Jan. 12th, 2025, and a workbook is not guaranteed. For in-person registration, the fee will be collected at the local site the first night of the program. In-person participation is HIGHLY encouraged, if at all possible.
A fully online option is available for $75.00 for family members that may live out of state or people that cannot participate in an in-person site.

Kansas Black Farmers Association Quarterly Meeting
2025-01-24 10:00 - 15:00 | Bluemont Room K-State Student Union, 918 N M.L.K. Jr. Drive, Manhattan, KS, 66506, United States
Join us at the Bluemont Room in the K-State Student Union for an engaging event featuring the latest updates on programs like Land Access, Organic TOPP, and the 2501 Socially Disadvantaged initiative. Key discussions will explore the future of agriculture and land access, the vital connection between soil health and farm health, and updates from our partners at Sodexo and Freshpoint. Don’t miss our special guest speaker, Hardisha Fairbands from Global Impact Operations at General Mills, sharing her expertise on global agricultural operations and sustainability.
Kansas Black Farmers has an emphasis on supporting and educating black famers on resources.
Visit our website to register (free registration and event): KBFA | Kansas Black Farmers Association

2025 Regional Specialty Crop Training and Networking Workshops—KS Farm-to-School Program
2025-01-30 09:00 - 15:00 | ESSDACK Learning Center, 1500 E 11th Avenue, Hutchison, KS, United States
You are invited to attend the Farm to School Regional Workshops to explore ways to connect producers and schools to purchase locally grown Specialty Crop products! Registrations are limited. There are 4 workshops to choose from.
Learning/Networking Sessions are scheduled:

Thursday, January 30—Hutchinson – ESSDACK Learning Center, 1500 East 11th Ave. Deadline is January 16.

Thursday, February 6—Lyons- Rice County Extension Office, 701 E Main St. Deadline to register is January 23.

Friday, February 7—Caldwell – Sugar Sisters Restaurant, 20 S Main St. Deadline to register is January 24.

Tuesday, February 13—Kansas City, MO- Ivanhoe Neighborhood Council, 3700 Woodland Ave. Deadline to register is January 30.

Workshops are scheduled 9am to 3pm.
Register here: 2025 Regional Specialty Crop Training and Networking Workshops—KS Farm-to-School Program — Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association

NSAS Annual Healthy Farms Conference - 2025
2025-01-31 07:30 - 2025-02-01 17:00 | Lied Lodge and Conference Center, 2700 Sylvan Rd, Nebraska City, NE, 68410, United States
Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society (NSAS) is a nonprofit, grassroots membership organization. Initiated over 40 years ago by farmer members, NSAS has grown into a dynamic organization with members from across Nebraska. We welcome farmers, eaters, supporters of local food and everyone with an interest in our lands and communities. Join us for the NSAS Annual Healthy Farms Conference in 2025!

When:

Jan 31, 2025, 7:30 AM – Feb 01, 2025, 5:00 PM

Where:

Lied Lodge and Conference Center,

2700 Sylvan Rd, Nebraska City, NE 68410, USA

Cost:
Range from $80.00 to $150.00

For more information, please visit the registration link: NSAS Annual Healthy Farms Conference – 2025 | My Site
