Organic growers and those with an in interest in transitioning to organic production can learn more about the latest research from the ISU Organic Ag Program during a field day Aug. 20 near Greenfield, Iowa.
The field day will run from 4-6 p.m. and includes a light meal featuring local and organic foods. Albert Lea Seed, who supplied the soybean, hybrid rye and red clover seed for the LTAR, will give an update from their organic seed company over supper. Participants will also learn about the USDA National Organic Program’s Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) which will support technical assistance to help producers overcome technical, cultural and financial shifts during and after organic certification. Anyone interested in transitioning to organic production can receive free mentorship through this program.
In addition to Delate, speakers will include Sabrina Ruis, soil scientist, USDA-ARS, Ames, Iowa, and Shelby Gruss, assistant professor in Agronomy. The event is supported through a grant from the USDA National Organic Program Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program.