Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference

Description:

We invite you to participate in the Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference. The conference is scheduled August 1 and 2, 2009 in Kissimmee, Florida.

Increased consumer demand for local products such as organic, heirloom, hydroponic, grass-fed beef, pastured poultry and ethnic meats and vegetables are providing new and increased opportunities for producers.

The USDA defines small farms as those with gross annual sales of $250,000 or less. Small farms contribute 37% of the value of all agricultural products sold in the U.S. In Florida, 93% of the 47,000 farms are defined by the USDA as small farms and this number is growing. The conference will provide two full days of educational and networking activities geared to small farms. Educational events will consist of presentations, workshops, demonstrations, and discussion groups on a variety of topics. Professor John Ikerd is the keynote speaker, and includes a special address by Florida Agricultural Commissioner Charles Bronson. Topics will include:

* Alternative Energy * Alternative Enterprises * Business and Marketing * Horticulture * Livestock including live animal exhibits * Organic & Sustainable Farming * Policy and Regulations

Networking opportunities will range from visiting with exhibitors with new products and technologies to refreshment breaks and lunches featuring product from Florida farms.

If you are affiliated with, interested in, or just want to learn more about diversified farming enterprises and community-based food systems in Florida, you will want to participate in this conference.

EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS JUNE 1. For more information visit the University of Florida's Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Website