Transitioning to Organic at Rodale Institute
Rodale Institute - Kutztown, Berks County
Friday, June 5
10:00am—3:00pm
$15 all registrants, lunch will be provided.
This field day is a collaboration between PASA, Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO), Rodale Institute, and Pennsylvania Women's Agricultural Network (WAgN).
Healthy soil is the foundation for organic agriculture. Learn soil-building techniques and other sustainable practices during this day of tours and presentations highlighting the numerous resources available to farmers interested in transitioning to organic production. Expert presentations, in-field demos, and online training tools will show the essential skills needed to farm without restricted materials and to comply with the USDA’s National Organic Program.
PA State Rep. David Kessler will present information on Path to Organic, a pilot program providing temporary financial aid to farmers converting from conventional to organic agriculture. Jeff Moyer, Farm Director at Rodale Institute, will present an overview of the electronic resources and field demonstrations that Rodale Institute offers as part of its educational programs for current and prospective organic growers. Melanie Saffer, Certification Director with Pennsylvania Certified Organic, will present the nuts and bolts of the actual certification process and record keeping.
*PROGRAM CHANGE*
The June 5 field day will now include a panel discussion in the afternoon to present information about new opportunities for funding for farmers that are already organic certified or interested in transitioning.
We are inviting a group from PA NRCS to talk about their Organic Initiative. This is a brand new section under the existing EQIP program and NRCS has received a significant amount of funding for it. All WAgN members who qualify should send in their applications before May 29. To learn more about eligibility requirements, go to www.rodaleinstitute.
