Conference showcases developments in organic trade

KALISPELL — The Montana Organic Association has announced the dates for its 14th Annual Conference, “The Heartbeat of Organics: Stimulating the Pulse of our Producers, Consumers, and Policymakers,” Dec. 1-3, at Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell.

The keynote speaker, John Reganold, Ph.D., Washington State University regents professor of soil science, will discuss sustainability, organic farming, and soil health. The conference also has scheduled presentations by experts in organic policy; funding opportunities; mobile high tunnels; brewing opportunities; animal vaccines; wildlife; the seed movement; grazing cover crops; weed termination; and crop insurance.

Also offered are several organic farm tours of beef and vegetable operations; Organic and Kids’ Universities; “Turn Here Sweet Corn,” a one-woman play; the Tropical Montana Marimba Ensemble; live and silent auctions; and the organic meals from Montana farmers and ranchers.

“The conference is a great way to learn about all the current important organic issues and be on top of the latest techniques, services and products in the industry,” David Oien, 2015 MOA Conference participant and owner of Timeless Foods, said. “A must-attend event.”

MOA Conference information is at http://www.MontanaOrganic Association.org/conference2016.htm, by phone from Susan at 406-274-4869 or via email at moa@MontanaOrganic Association.org.

People who would like to participate as a vendor, sponsor, volunteer or donor for the scholarship fund, or have auction items to donate should contact the association.

The full listing of sponsors for the conference is available online at http://www.montanaorganicassociation.org/sponsors.htm.

The Montana Organic Association is a nonprofit trade organization that advocates and promotes organic agriculture. MOA’s website is http://www.montanaorganicassociation.org.