Free Training Set for Beginning and Current Organic Row Crops Farmers

By Jeff Gale and Lindy Berg et.al

Beginning and current farmers interested in transitioning to certified organic production of grains, oilseeds or pulses are the target audience for a two-day training presented by North Dakota State University Extension, the North Dakota Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program (SARE), and the National Center for Appropriate Technology.

The organic academy roadshow training is set for July 15 and 16 at the NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center. The start time on Monday is 9 a.m.

"Organic fruit and vegetable production often receives a lot of attention," says Jeff Gale, NDSU Extension agent and North Dakota SARE co-coordinator. "This training is unique because it focuses on medium- to large-scale row crop production."

During the workshop, expert speakers and experienced farmers from the Northern Great Plains region will cover a range of topics, including:

• Developing an organic system plan.
• Economics and markets for organic products.
• Considerations when transitioning an operation.
• Working with an organic consultant.

Participants will have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and share ideas with seasoned organic farmers and ranchers, including Nate Powell-Palm, Doug Crabtree and Margaret Scoles.