2015 Annual Conference

2015 Annual Conference

In this spot on Earth called Iowa, soil maps reveal some of the highest quality topsoils in the world. Rainfall charts and physical maps show plentiful water (usually) that others envy. But on other maps our fingers follow routes of unsustainable erosion levels from uncovered soil and tile lines. Still other maps show rapidly declining biodiversity. We need to draw Iowa’s map anew, so that — from the Mississippi to the Missouri — our state is filled with an agriculture that supports farms prized for their diversity of crops and livestock, food that is celebrated, and communities alive with diverse connections between farmers and friends of farmers. The 2015 Annual Conference will foster discussion on longer crop rotations, cover crops, pollinator habitat, weather resiliency, soil preservation, perennial crops, diverse crop mixes and irrigation. We will also explore how to tackle low profit margins and volatile market prices, and how to chart a profitable future. Learn from discussions between beginning farmers navigating future farming careers, and experienced farmers helping them reach their destinations through farm succession, mentorship and education. Find your way to Practical Farmers’ 2015 Annual Conference, settle in and set your path.