The California Small Farm Conference (CSFC), the state’s premier gathering of small-scale farmers, ranchers, and farmers’ market managers, begins this Sunday, March 6th. The Conference is anticipated to attract 400+ members of the small-scale farming community and the general public.
Sunday, March 9th:
•Ticketed attendees participate in one of the four field courses designed to provide valuable hands-on education at local small farms and ranches in Sacramento county.
•After a day in the field, attendees are invited to attend Sunday evening’s Welcome Reception at 5:30pm.
Monday, March 10th:
•Monday is the first day of networking opportunities and workshops. New this year – the Morning Mixer at 8:00am and Table Talks at noon. Both are unique opportunities for farmers to discuss key challenges and innovative solutions with experts.
•The Tasting Reception will be held Monday evening at 5:30pm for the general public. Over twenty local chefs, farmers, artisanal producers, beer and wine makers, will offer samples of their local favorites to ticket holders. Tickets may be purchased onsite for $50. Members of the media are invited to a special VIP Preview of the Tasting Reception from 5:00 to 5:30pm. Tickets and a list of participating vendors are available online at: http://www.californiafarmconference.com/tasting/
Tuesday, March 11th:
•Farm to Fork Director, Nicole Rogers, will deliver the keynote at the breakfast on Tuesday, March 8th, at 8:00am. Joining her is a panel of farm to fork professionals including: Mary Kimball, executive director, Center for Land-Based Learning; Chelsea Minor, director of public affairs, Raley’s Fine Stores; Matt Byrne, owner, SunFed Ranch; and Scott Ostrander, executive chef, Inn at Park Winters.
•At 12:00pm we will host the Award Luncheon. The Tom Haller Award will be presented to Ron Kelley of R. Kelley Farm, who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to help small farms thrive.
CSFC registration is still available on-site at the DoubleTree Hotel. Please review our conference schedule for a listing of open registration times: http://www.californiafarmconference.com/conference-at-a-glance/