Annual MOA Conference

This year’s Missouri Organic Association’s Annual Conference is bringing together producers, consumers/eaters, and experts in the field for a 2 day conference of presentations, workshops, discussions, networking, and trade show exhibits. Friday’s sessions are devoted to agricultural marketing and are funded by a Risk Management Education grant to promote organics in Missouri; consequently, scholarships are available to cover registration costs. Saturday’s sessions are packed full of organic production information on topics from grains and herbs, small fruits and vegetables to cattle, goats, and dairy.

Highlighting this year’s conference is Kathleen Delate, State Organic Specialist from Iowa State University. Kathleen was the first organic specialist at a major university. Come hear her present on topics of both organic grains and organic vegetables. Kathleen has more than 8 years of organic research under her belt which she plans to share in each of her sessions.

The keynote speaker this year is Pat Garrity, Executive Director of Floyd Boulevard Local Foods Market. The Local Foods Market includes a grocery store featuring locally produced foods and crafts, open-air farmers’ markets, a food processing center and a resource and education center for seminars on topics such as growing and cooking organic foods. Pat is now leading the way for steps to become a legal co-op entity.

As the organic industry & local foods movement continues to grow, consumers are demanding wholesome, nutritious, sustainable, local foods. Come be a part of this growing conference that is bringing together producers and eaters in one location to share knowledge, experience, and resources to promote sustainable living. Presentations include research analysis, producer experiences, buyers, nutritionists, and experts in marketing and sales.

Note: you don’t have to be organic to come! Some of our speakers and members are not certified organic. We are all learning from each other.

For a full program agenda and registration form go to the Missouri Organic Association’s website. Registration includes meals.

For additional information, email kellyd@missouri.edu or call 573-882-1905.