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MOSES Conference Encourages Organic Farming, Sustainability
In partnership with: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
It’s only natural that one of the nation’s largest organic events is held in Wisconsin every year. After all, the state is one of the leaders in organic production and sales.
The MOSES Organic Farming Conference, hosted by the nonprofit organization Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service, is a three-day event held annually in La Crosse to promote organic and sustainable agriculture, providing education, resources, and expertise.
More than 170 vendors attracted thousands of people in February 2017 to learn about organic farming techniques. The conference offered more than 60 workshops, two keynote speakers and a two-floor exhibit hall. Workshop topics covered information about field crops, livestock, soil health and more. Plus, organically grown food was featured.
The conference is highly anticipated and supported by Wisconsin’s diverse organic community, including members of the Wisconsin Organic Advisory Council (WOAC), a 12-member panel appointed by the State Secretary of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. It provides guidance to the Secretary, the Governor, the Legislature and other state agencies on actions that can be taken to further Wisconsin’s industry.
“The WOAC brings together public and private resources to promote Wisconsin’s national leadership position in organic agriculture,” says Angie Sullivan, organics, grazing and specialty crop specialist with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. She works closely with Wisconsin’s organics community, including members of the council.
“The advisory council supports organic production, processing and purchasing opportunities for Wisconsin farmers, processors and consumers,” she continues. “Many of the council’s members attend the conference, and they’re always excited, proud and honored to have the largest organic farming conference in the country held right here in the state.”
Council members offer extensive knowledge of all things organic. One example is Harriet Behar, who is the organic specialist for MOSES and also on the National Organic Standards Board. She has an expansive knowledge of organics, thanks to 16 years as an organic inspector, 30-plus years as an organic grower and work with national coalitions.
Learn more about the conference at mosesorganic.org.