Some 200 attendees are expected for the 16th Annual Small Farm Conference at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore November 1-2. The event provides an avenue for participants to network and learn about new opportunities and strategies that promote farm profitability and sustainability.
New this year is the Industrial Hemp Pre-Conference scheduled for Thursday, October 31, where experts from the industrial hemp industry will provide information on hemp production and processing, marketing and laboratory analyses, and the legal and regulatory aspects of industrial hemp. Registrants who plan to attend both the Hemp Conference and the Small Farm Conference will receive a discount.
Back by popular demand for the Friday sessions are two food preservation classes on the dehydration of herbs and the preserving of apple butter using high acid canning techniques. Also available for Friday are sessions on alternative “niche” crop production, small flock poultry processing, managing an apple orchard and pasture rotation for sheep and goats.
Saturday’s offerings include: industrial hemp production, farm financial management tips, extending your strawberry growing season, and resources for beginning farmers and veterans. An expanded exhibitor expo highlights a variety of vendors and agriculture agencies in the state.
Also popular from last year and returning is the Special Event Farmers Market on Friday from 1-5 p.m. at the Student Services Center. Experience the best of Delmarva produce from local farmers; buy local, eat local, support local business.
For more information or to register by visiting umessfc2019.eventbrite.com.
