Nebraska Extension Educator Keith Glewen said this program is geared for those individuals who wish to learn more about the components of successful organic grain production.
“Extension professionals across Nebraska have experienced an uptick in the number of questions pertaining to organic grain production,” Glewen said. “Therefore, we are providing this educational program as an attempt to answer questions and provide additional information as it relates to getting starting in this growing industry.”
The “Starting an Organic Grain Farming Operation — What You Need to Know” workshop will take place from 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m. Jan. 30 at the University of Nebraska Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center near Mead, Nebraska, with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m.
The workshop features speakers experienced in various facets of organic crop production and marketing.
“The presenters have a wealth of experience with organic farming,” Nebraska Extension Educator Gary Lesoing said. “They will provide important information about the transition to organic farming and tools for success for farming organically.”
Topics and presenters include:
- “The Mental Transitioning from Conventional to Organic Farming”: Dave Welsch, certified organic farmer since 1993, Milford, Nebraska.
- Organic certification — From Application to Certification Decisions: Clayton Blagburn, certification specialist, OneCert Organization Inc., Lincoln, Nebraska.
- Organic grain marketing: Alex Wolf, Scoular organic grain manager, Omaha, Nebraska.
- “The Importance of Cover Crops in an Organic Rotation”: Jim Starr, Joel and Jim Starr Partnership, Hastings, Nebraska.
Joel Gruver, associate professor of soil science and sustainability ag at Western Illinois University, will speak on two topics — “Farming System Strategies for Success in Organics,” and “Weed Management in Organic Row Crops.”
The program will conclude with a speakers panel with the opportunity to interact with those directly involved in organic grain farming.
There is no fee to attend, but participants must pre-register by 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 28 to ensure resource materials are available and for meal planning purposes. Seating is limited. Registration and more information available online.
