Iowa Organic Conference to Highlight Economics and Climate-Smart Systems

By Kathleen Delate

The country’s largest university-sponsored organic conference will return Nov. 25 to the University of Iowa in Iowa City. A joint effort of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the University of Iowa, the conference will feature producers and experts from across the country sharing tips for transitioning into organic production and methods to enhance organic operations.

Registration is $100 through Nov. 10 and $150 after that date. Conference registration is available online at https://www.regcytes.extension.iastate.edu/iowaorganic/.

This year’s theme is “Organic Agriculture: Economic Opportunities and Climate-Smart Systems” featuring keynote speaker Thelma Velez, research and education program director, Organic Farming Research Foundation. Velez will speak on how OFRF surveys organic farmers on their research and education needs and how they work to have their voices heard through various outlets, including the Farm Bill.  

The conference begins at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24, with vendor setup, and a reception featuring local and organic food and drinks at 6 p.m. in the UI Memorial Union.

Monday’s breakout sessions start at 8 a.m. and will include information on transitioning into organic farming, weed management, organic livestock production and specialty crops. Other sessions include improving soil health, organic no-till, transitioning to organic and working with NRCS, among others. Monday’s lunch will highlight local and organic produce, meats and dairy products assembled into a gourmet meal by Chef Anne Watson and her University of Iowa dining team.

“The Iowa Organic Conference is the largest university-sponsored organic conference in the country,” said Kathleen Delate, professor and extension organic specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Last year’s conference brought over 30 exhibitors, ranging from organic seed sales to local food system nonprofits, to government offices working with transitioning and certified organic farmers. Despite the challenges of storms and wet fields, organic farmers are anticipating successful organic yields.”

Hotel rooms are available at The Graduate Hotel for Sunday, Nov. 24. Guests may access room reservations online.

For additional conference information and directions to the conference, visit the 2024 Iowa Organic Conference webpage or contact Kathleen Delate at kdelate@iastate.edu or 515-294-5116.