Pennsylvania will host organic farmers from throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast to learn from internationally renowned organic and sustainable agriculture experts at the 3rd Annual Growing Pennsylvania’s Organic Farms Conference December 13-14 in Harrisburg

"We are pleased to offer established, new and transitioning organic farmers the chance to pick the brains of the most innovative and successful professionals in the field," said state Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. "This is a priceless opportunity to learn what works to sustain organic farms and improve productivity and profitability, while giving consumers the high quality organic products they crave."

Secretary Redding will welcome Keynote Speaker Gary Zimmer, co-founder, president and chief visionary officer of Midwestern BioAg, an author and expert on soil quality who is considered by many to be the "father of biological farming."

Jim Gerritsen, president of the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association, will speak on the future of organic farming during a plated organic dinner.

Other speakers include a wide range of experts in grass-fed milk production, managing soil fertility and health, small grains, cover crops, pest management, organic seed, and fruit production, management and marketing.

The Conference supports Northeast and Mid-Atlantic organic farms with information and discussion on the best organic farming practices available. The conference is a collaboration of public and private organizations, organic farmers and advocacy groups, including the Department of Agriculture, Rodale Institute, PA Certified Organic, Organic Valley Dairy, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service and PA Farm Link.

For more information on speakers, topics and registration, visit the Growing Pennsylvania’s Organic Farms Conference. Students receive a $50 registration discount with ID.

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12/13/2016