Eureka, Montana, October 26, 2015 — The Montana Organic Association (MOA) is gathering its members and inviting the public to join them in celebrating the organic movement that came about almost thirty years ago. Montana now ranks first among states in the production of certified organic wheat and ranks second in organic production of all grains, peas, lentils and flax.
Cultivating Soils, Opportunities and Relationships is the theme of the 13th Annual Conference of the Association. It is a gathering of a diverse but like-minded people who have dedicated themselves to living by organic standards that convey trust and transparency to the consumer. They come together to share their stories, learn from each other and confront the many challenges that face them at this time.
The keynote address will be given by David Granatstein who holds the position of Statewide Coordinator for Washington State University’s Center for Sustaining Agriculture & Natural Resources. He brings a wealth of knowledge from his many educational and research projects, including soil erosion control in furrow irrigated fields; on-farm research of bio solids and compost; integrated fruit production; and soil quality studies.
This year’s speakers are very engaging and knowledgeable in their fields, including Montana State University (MSU) researchers and faculty members, Chef Claudia Galofre Krevat of Claudia’s Mesa, Liz Carlisle – author of Lentil Underground, and Montana Department of Agriculture’s Director Ron de Yong. Several sessions are back by popular demand, including Organic University, Kids’ University and a Seed Class. MSU’s analytical labs have graciously given us access to four of their facilities for small, guided tours. There are also two local livestock farms with a unique opportunity to tour with a veterinarian. Conference sessions will be on a variety of topics, including Opportunity Panels on Grain, Produce, Livestock and Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture and Beginning Farmers. Conference participants will get updates from the USDA, Organic Trade Association, National Organics Standards Board, Organic Advisory and Education Council, and the Montana Organic Association’s Board.
Add the movie, What’s Organic About Organics?, silent and live auctions, networking with other professionals in organics, and a large dose of Bozeman fun thrown in and you’ve got the recipe for an amazing organic event. And, of course, the organic food will be nothing short of amazing!
For more information, sponsorship and advertising, or to register, visit the MOA website at www.montanaorganicassociation.org or call Lou Ann Crowley at (406) 721-4331.
The Montana Organic Association is a non-profit trade organization that advocates and promotes organic agriculture for the highest good of the people, the environment and the State’s economy. MOA’s website is: www.montanaorganicassociation.org.
Source: Montana Organic Association
