Webinar to Help Identify Organic Specialty Grain and Crop Markets
Explore the growing opportunities in organic specialty grains and crop markets within the Great Plains region during SDSPA’s USDA TOPP (transition to organic) webinar on Nov. 7, 2024 at 12:30 p.m. Central Time.
Designed for transitioning and aspiring organic farmers, the session will provide valuable insights into identifying and tapping into these niche markets.
The 65 minute webinar will feature a panel discussion with seasoned organic farmers and representatives from the Organic Farmers’ Agency for Relationship Marketing (OFARM) and NF Organics.
Panelists, including Charlie and Aaron Johnson, Johnson Farms; Carmen Fernholz, A-Frame Farm; and Will Ortman, Berrybrook Organic, will share their experiences and strategies for successfully marketing organic specialty grains, such as heirloom varieties, ancient grains, and other high-demand crops.
Participants will learn about market trends, pricing dynamics, and effective approaches to building relationships with buyers and processors. Additionally, the webinar will cover the role of OFARM in supporting organic farmers with market access.
By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with practical knowledge to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities in the organic specialty grains market, helping them to make informed decisions and maximize their profitability in this growing sector.
Register HereThis program is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).
Agenda:
Welcome and Opening Remarks
Opportunities in Organic Specialty Grains and Crop Markets in the Great Plains
- Overview of the Great Plains region’s organic farming landscape
- Introduction to organic specialty grains
- Market trends and demand for specialty crops in the region
- Identifying niche markets and potential buyers
Panel Discussion with Three Seasoned Organic Farmers
- Panelist introductions and background
- Farmers share their experiences in growing and marketing organic specialty grains
- Challenges and successes in identifying and accessing specialty markets
- Best practices for transitioning to or expanding organic specialty crop production
- Audience Q&A with the farmer panel
Discussion with Grain Brokers
- Introduction to the Organic Farmers’ Agency for Relationship Marketing (OFARM) & NF Organics
- The role of supporting organic farmers in the Great Plains
- How these agencies assists in market access, collective bargaining, and building relationships with buyers
- Insights on market trends, pricing, and long-term opportunities for organic specialty grains
- Audience Q&A with representatives
Closing Remarks and Next Steps