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  • From: Jerry and Marienne <kreitlow AT cmgate.com>
  • To: market-farming AT lists.ibiblio.org
  • Subject: [Market-farming] Sustainable Farming Conference in MN
  • Date: Tue, 12 Dec 2006 15:11:17 -0600

Hi Folks,

Well, here's another conference for the list, but this one's in Minnesota.  If you're from the frozen-tundra-that-isn't-frozen-yet state, or you just want to take a road trip, we'd love to have you!

Thanks,
Jerry Ford
------------
Statewide Sustainability and Environmental Conference to be Held in Buffalo, MN

Minnesota is often looked to as a prime example of how local and regional organizations can work together with individuals for vital rural communities. thriving farms, and a healthy environment.  But how does the average citizen or local farmer sort through all these groups, programs and projects so that they can contribute in a meaningful way?

They can come to the Crow River Sustainable Farming Conference in Buffalo on Saturday, January 6th. Titled “Connecting Our Sustainable Communities - Collaborating for a Better Minnesota”, this day-long event will bring together sustainable agricultural groups, environmental organizations, local food advocates, and supporters of family farms in Minnesota.

To be held at Buffalo United Methodist Church, 609  8th St. NW, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., this multifaceted event is sponsored by Crow River Sustainable Farming Association - the folks who bring you the Minnesota Garlic Festival and a variety of farm tours in the summer.

The centerpiece of the conference is an afternoon session with all the members of The Sustainers Coalition, a group of six Minnesota organizations dedicated to strengthening our state’s foundation of family farms and rural communities.  Each group will present their mission and projects in a panel moderated by local farm advocate, Jerry Ford, with time for questions and comments from the public.

The Sustainers Coalition includes Land Stewardship Project, Minnesota Food Association, Sustainable Farming Association,  Minnesota Project, the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, and Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture.

There will also be special interest sessions throughout the day, including:

- “Conscious Eating” presented by Chef Alex Roberts of Restaurant Alma in Minneapolis, which specializes in local and organic foods; and Greg Reynolds of Riverbend Farm in Delano.

- A workshop on maintaining healthy soils with Dr. Carl Rosen, U of M professor in Soil, Water and Climate; and a seminar on organic certification.

- A presentation by Farm Beginnings, a program that helps families get established on the land; and Minnesota Farmers Union will discuss their work in sustainability and transferring farms to the next generation.

- Crow River Organization for Water and Wright County Soil and Water Conservation District will talk about water quality, run-off, erosion concerns, and programs for riverbank and lakeshore landowners.

Registration includes admission to all these events, membership in Sustainable Farming Association, and a potluck lunch featuring foods right off the farm. This delicious meal is also the setting for the annual meeting of Crow River Sustainable Farming Association.

The Qeej Troupe, an exciting musical ensemble from the Hmong Cultural Center, will perform during the afternoon general session, and there will be exhibits from each of the presenting organizations.

For further information, directions and registration forms, please call Jerry Ford at 320-543-3394 or email jerry AT marienne.com.  Visit the Sustainable Farming website at www. sfa-mn.org




  • [Market-farming] Sustainable Farming Conference in MN, Jerry and Marienne, 12/12/2006

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