Inaugural Organic Grower Summit Slated for December

In December, a joint production between California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and Organic Produce Network (OPN), the inaugural Organic Grower Summit (OGS) will bring together organic growers, producers, and processors for two days of education, information and networking opportunities with organic production supply chain and service providers.

More than 50 sponsors have confirmed their attendance at the event, with more than half of the 72 available trade show booths sold. Among participating exhibitors are leaders in the fields of seed, packaging, soil amendments, food safety and ag technology who will be connecting with organic field production staff, supply chain managers, pest management advisors and food safety experts.

Educational session panels at OGS will include farm soil management, environmentally sustainable packaging, advances in agricultural technology, and a discussion with elected state and federal officials on key issues facing agriculture. Among confirmed speakers are Karen Ross, secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture; Miles McEvoy, deputy administrator at USDA-AMS; plus additional keynote presentations and speakers to be announced in the coming weeks.

OGS also is finalizing an educational Outreach Program for PCA, PRC and qualified applicators to kick off the event. Attendees are eligible for two hours of approved continuing education credit and will learn about new requirements for pesticide use near schools and worker protection standards. 

Attendee registration for the December 13-14 summit in Monterey, Calif., is $399, with discounts available for CCOF members. Registration includes all activities and events associated with the event, including opening reception, breakfast, educational sessions, keynote presentation, lunch and trade show floor. For more information visit www.organicgrowersummit.com.