Inaugural Veteran Farming Conference scheduled for July

Attendees don’t have to be military veterans to participate

A new ag event is debuting next month.

The inaugural Summer Military Veteran Farming Conference is scheduled for July 11 and 12 at The Farmstead Inn & Conference Center in Shipshewana, Ind.

“This is more than just a conference—it’s a launching pad for connection, healing, and
opportunity in agriculture,” said Joe Ricker, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and founder of Ease Orchard, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans through hands-on farming and beekeeping experiences.

Despite its name, attendees don’t have to be military veterans to participate in the event.

The conference is open to beginning and experienced farmers, homesteaders, and first responders.

The first day of the conference will have two program options for attendees.

They can choose to participate in a mental health first aid program, or a business workshop.

The mental health first aid course teaches participants how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness.

And the business workshop teaches business and production skills, and includes enterprise budgeting and cost of production.

The second day of the conference will include multiple sessions led by farmers and industry reps.

One presentation topic is assistive technology for veterans. Others include soil health, cover crops, and livestock production.

In addition, there’s a vendor expo, networking opportunities, and more.

Attendees must register for the conference.

Qualified veterans pay $20 per household, with standard registrations going for $120.