Tuesday, February 11, 2020
Fairfield Public Library, Fairfield

AGENDA 

• 9:00-9:15 - Welcome and Introductions (All attendees)
  
  
• 9:15-10:15 - What is “Organic”? (Kristine Lang, Rodale Institute/Midwest Organic Center - history of National Organic Program, basic steps to certification, benefits and challenges of organic, trends, and resources)
  
  
• 10:15-10:30 - BREAK

• 10:30-11:45 - Organic Regulations and Production Overview (Kristine Lang, Rodale Institute/Midwest Organic Center - organic regulations and production considerations for crop production including nutrient management, pest/weed management, rotations, buffers, land transition, and natural resources/biodiversity)
  
  
• 11:45-12:00 - Organic Resources in Iowa (Roz Lehman, Iowa Organic Association)
  
  
• 12:00-1:00 - BREAK FOR LUNCH

• 1:00-2:00 - Organic Processing - Beth Bennett, Professional Proteins

• 2:00-2:15 - BREAK
  
  
• 2:15-4:00 - Organic Producer Panel & Discussion (producers describe their operation, why they farm organically, challenges, opportunities, and open Q&A)
   
  • Kim Andersen, Brighton
  • Kent Boyum, Fairfield
  • Nelson Smith, Brighton
  • Francis Thicke, Fairfield

• 4:00 - Adjourn