Newsroom
2005
Organic production offers alternatives to conventional farmers
(Winnipeg) - Farmers can learn about the choices offered by organic production at a comprehensive workshop taking place at Assiniboine Community College in Brandon, Manitoba on November 12 and 13, 2005.
Being held in conjunction with the "Organic Matters on the Prairies" conference and trade show, farmers who attend the workshop, entitled "Gaining Ground" will learn how to transition successfully from conventional to organic production.
"Farmers are currently facing dual challenges of high-input costs and lower world commodity prices," explained conference co-chair and CWB organic marketing manager Donna Youngdahl. "The external input costs of organic production are lower and the
available prices are higher, so farmers may want to consider the organic alternative."
The environmental sustainability of organic production will also interest farmers who are concerned about land management, added Youngdahl.
The "Gaining Ground" workshop will include small interactive breakout sessions on making the switch to organic farm management, understanding the principles of organic farming, transition strategies and certification requirements.
The concurrent "Organic Matters on the Prairies" conference will appeal to both seasoned organic farmers and consumers, featuring presentations by internationally renowned organic specialists, expert panelists and practical learning sessions. Dr.
Elaine Ingham will de-mystify how to build soil fertility the organic way, working with soil biology. Pat Mooney will tackle the impact of biotechnology on organics, and participate on the panel, "Can Organic Farming Feed the World?" Organic food,
fibres and farm supplies will be on display at the conference's trade show.
The workshop and conference are being hosted by the Canadian Organic Growers, the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB), the Organic Trade Association, the Organic Food Council of Manitoba and the Organic Producers of Manitoba.
To register for the "Gaining Ground" workshop or the "Organic Matters on the Prairies" conference, visit www.organicmatters.ca.
For more information contact:
Donna Youngdahl
Conference co-chair
Tel: (204) 983-3635
donna_youngdahl@cwb.ca
Julie Fine
Conference coordinator
Tel: (204) 299-6614
nfo@organicmatters.ca