Workshops
Session II
Friday, February 14 | 10:45-Noon
Solar / Agrivoltaics Roundtable
Matt Kleinhenz, OSU, Katie Carothers, Old Slate Farm, Jeff Dean, Timberlane Farms
Hear from multiple voices in this conversation about the contentious issue of agrivoltaics, the practice of integrating agriculture and solar panels on farmland, and how it can impact agricultural land in Ohio. These varied perspectives will explore this polarizing topic, as Ohio balances both preserving farmland and expanding renewable energy production.
Sustainable Foundations and Personal Resilience
Understanding Heirs’ Property at the Community Level
Steve Washington, CSU
Heirs’ property is land passed down informally from generation-to-generation. It’s a significant cause of land loss across the U.S. It usually involves landowners who died without a will and now is owned by “in common” multiple heirs, regardless of whether they live on the land or pay the taxes. Learn how to protect your lands by going through this overview of heirs’ property, strategies for preventing it, and key considerations in resolving heirs’ property risk.
Growing Sustainable Businesses
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
Jaime Hadji, Ohio Farmers Market Network
In 2024, the Ohio Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) underwent major changes. Dive into these new modernizations, the USDA Code of Federal Regulations, and gain the information necessary for applying to and accepting benefits. Also learn about the improvements planned for 2025, including a system for Plain Community farmers.
Organic Grain Market Outlook: A New Normal
Ryan Koory, Argus Media
Hear an overview of Argus’ latest perspective on U.S. organic grain market data. Following a period of unprecedented volatility, markets look to find new stability.
Organic Pigs on Pasture
Shara Trierwieler, Agape Organic Farms
Delve into the unique challenges and rewards of raising pigs in a sustainable and natural environment, understanding the benefits of pasture-based pig farming. From improved animal welfare to enhanced meat quality, gain valuable insights and tools to enhance your farming practices and maintain compliance with organic standards.
Building Soil Organic Matter Through Rotational Grazing
Jim Linne, White Clover Farms
Using rotational grazing techniques on well-managed grasslands is an excellent way to increase organic matter and improve soil health. Hear about personal experience with this technique and its efficiency in capturing carbon.
Vegetables, Fruit and Specialty Crops
The Essential Guide to Pawpaws
Valerie Libbey, Libbey Farm
Pawpaws (Asimina triloba) are North America’s largest native fruit. Discuss its history, growing tips and tricks, and educational resources. Learn about pollination, germinating seeds, propagating plants, and other best practices, and take home ideas for efficient fruit processing, delicious recipes, and value-added market opportunities.
Which Tool is the Right Tool?
Joel Dufour, Earth Tools Inc.
Dig into the world of garden tools—it’s a lot bigger than what you see at a big-box store! Learn the proper selection and ergonomics of various tools, how to identify high quality tools, and how to maintain them.
What is a Foodshed?
Benji Ballmer, Yellowbird Foodshed
We are all here because of our love for ourselves, the earth, and each other. Together, discuss how to take the work of the past, combine it with the current food system landscape, and work together to make change for a sustainable future.
* This session was not recorded due to its conversational aspect.
t This session's recording had technical issues.
Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association
NEW ADDRESS
150 E. Wilson Bridge Rd. Suite 230
Worthington, OH 43085
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orgOEFFA: (614) 421-2022 (614) 421-2022
OEFFA Certification: (614) 262-2022 (614) 262-2022