Reserve your place today for the largest organic seed event in the U.S. Registration is now open for the 9th Organic Seed Growers Conference. This year’s theme — Synergy that Sustains — reflects an emphasis on developing collaborative networks for research, education, and advocacy, and supporting a diversity of approaches to advancing organic seed systems. Read on for details about pre-conference intensives, the Willamette Valley Seed Tour, and the workshops scheduled for the main event, as well as the Trade Show and scholarship opportunities. Be sure to visit the conference webpage for additional details about hotels, traveling to Corvallis, and other FAQs.
Seed Economics Intensive | Look Financial Risk in the Eye
When: Wednesday, February 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Cost: $150
Navigating the finances of growing seed commercially can be challenging and managing the risks are essential to success. No need to worry! Join us for this one-day intensive to gain the tools you need to manage financial risk in commercial seed production. Learn more about the intensive and speaker lineup.
Organic Plant Breeding Intensive | Sharpen Your Breeding Skills
When: Thursday, February 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Cost: $150
Take your on-farm breeding skills and variety development projects to the next level! This crash course in organic plant breeding will provide the basic skills to initiate or advance your organic breeding projects. Learn more about the intensive and speaker lineup.
Willamette Valley Seed Tour | Hop on the Bus
When: Thursday, February 15 from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Cost: $150
Kick start your conference with another great tour of mid-Willamette Valley seed production! This year’s day-long tour sponsored by Oregon Tilth will feature seed production and cleaning on a number of different scales. Learn more about the tour locations and register early, as space is limited.
Conference Workshops | Get Into the Weeds
When: Friday, February 16 & Saturday, February 17 | Cost: $375
Do we have a line-up for you! Hear the latest in cutting-edge research, seed policy, and more, and trade knowledge, techniques, and ideas with fellow seedheads from around the world. Check out workshop details and speaker lineup.
Business Trade Show | Network and Be Seen
When: Friday, February 16 & Saturday, February 17 | Cost: $325 for businesses and $180 for government & non-profits
New for 2018 is a 2,400 square-foot heated tent showcased in a high-traffic conference area and a farmer-centric Trade Show raffle. Booths are available on a first come, first served basis. Contact Cara Loriz by email or at (360) 385-7192 to learn more or to reserve your booth.
Scholarships for Farmers, Interns, and Students | Lending a Hand
Deadline to apply: December 3, 2017
Thanks to our sponsors, we’re able to offer a finite amount of half-priced scholarships for farmers who net less than $50k per year and agricultural interns and students. Awards allow successful applicants to register for the main conference at half price ($187.50). Learn more and apply today.
