‘Getting Started in Organic’ Workshops
What does it take to get started farming organically? Join the Iowa Organic Association (IOA) for two “Getting Started in Organic” workshops on September 23, 2024 in Cedar Rapids, or September 25th in Story City. These informative sessions will be held from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and will serve as a valuable introduction to USDA Organic Standards, current organic market trends, and new USDA programs designed to support organic transition throughout Iowa.
Both workshops will provide attendees with essential insights into organic farming practices and the support available to organic farmers. Participants will also have the opportunity to hear firsthand from experienced organic producers about their farming operations and experiences. Industry experts will share their knowledge and insights on organic farming. Jamey Meyer from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) will provide a comprehensive overview of organic inspection requirements. Al Smith from Optimum Service Group will delve into the tools available for organic crop insurance through the USDA Risk Management Agency. Additionally, representatives from the Organic Farmers’ Agency for Relationship Marketing (OFARM) cooperative will offer valuable information on organic crop markets and effective marketing strategies.
Workshop in Cedar Rapids on September 23
Unique on the agenda for the workshop in Cedar Rapids will be a tour of the 190-acre Etzel Sugar Grove Farm, which is home to the Rodale Institute Midwest Organic Center. Farm Manger Drew Erickson will share about the organic production and research happening at the farm, equipment used in organic crop management, and important things to consider when transitioning to organic crop production.
The Rodale Institute Midwest Organic Center at Eztel Sugar Grove Farm provides research, education, and assistance to farmers looking to implement organic practices on their farms or diversify their crop rotations. It’s also an educational center for the public, and the site of collaboration between Rodale Institute researchers and local partners. The farm implements and educates the public on regenerative agriculture practices that restore the health of Iowa’s farms, watersheds and environment.
Workshop in Story City on September 25
Unique on the agenda for the workshop in Story City includes a panel discussion with organic farmers Noah Wendt and Dylan Farrell. Noah and his partner Caleb Akin run A&W Farms, which has about 2,100 certified organic acres near Cambridge, IA. Noah is participating in the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) as a mentor to Dylan, who is a beginning organic farmer and is working at A&W Farms while starting his own small-scale organic venture. Their mentorship, supported by the TOPP mentorship program, pairs experienced organic farmers with those new to or transitioning into organic farming.
Organic continues to be the fastest growing agricultural sector in the United States, with Iowa being the top producer of organic corn, soybeans, oats, and hog production and home to 1,193 certified organic operations. Consumers are increasingly choosing products and practices that enhance the farm, protect our communities, and our planet.
Iowa Organic Association offers a range of programs and technical and financial resources to support farmers and businesses interested in organic transition and diversification. Rosalyn Lehman, IOA Executive Director shares that “many of Iowa’s farmers and landowners struggle to find reliable support as they explore new organic production systems and land uses.” These workshops will provide guidance and tools to adequately assist organic and transitioning farmers and landowners.
Expanding organic production in Iowa is as much an opportunity for farmers to diversify production and income streams, as it is for businesses supporting those producers.
Funding for these workshops has been provided, in part, by the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA). Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the organizer(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Registration & Event Details:
- Workshop in Cedar Rapids: Monday, September 23 from 12 – 4 p.m. at the Indian Creek Nature Center, 5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
- Workshop in Story City: Wednesday, September 25 from 12 – 4 p.m. at the Fairfield Lodge, Grove Avenue (next to the carousel), Story City, IA 50248
- Registration: Visit www.iowaorganic.org/calendar for event details, agendas, and to register for these free workshops. For additional information, please contact Ethan Book, TOPP Outreach & Education Coordinator, at ethan@iowaorganic.org or 641-321-3352.
