| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Ron Zellar |
| December 31, 2008 | (406) 444-3684 |
Sign Up Now For Organic Farming Workshops in February
HELENA, Mont. — Sales of organic products have increased annually by an average of 20 percent during the past decade, which has benefited Montana processors and created opportunities for Montana farmers of wheat, peas, lentils and other crops.
To take advantage of this rapidly growing market, some Montana farmers have taken steps to establish certified organic crops on land previously enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program, and by transitioning fields from conventional farming practices. Both methods of converting to organic production will be explained during full-day workshops hosted by the Montana Department of Agriculture during February.
Workshops will be held 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Lewistown, Great Falls and Scobey on the following dates:
- February 3 - Lewistown, Fergus County Sheriff’s Complex basement meeting room, 121 8th Avenue South. (Registration deadline: January 22)
- February 10 - Great Falls College of Technology Heritage Hall, 2100 16th Ave. South. (Registration deadline: January 29)
- February 16 - Scobey, Nemont Friendship Meeting Room, 701 Second Ave. West. (Registration deadline: February 4)
Representatives of the Montana Department of Agriculture and the Montana State University College of Agriculture will discuss organic production economics, organic standards, organic certification and inspection, organic farming practices, weed management, nutrient management, and tools available to assist farmers including assistance from the MSU Extension Service. A panel of local organic farmers will share their experiences and answer questions. Organic grain buyers will be present to discuss market trends and opportunities to sell Montana-grown organic crops.
Lunch will be provided at all three workshops. Workshops may be cancelled if an insufficient number of people register by the deadlines listed above. To register or get more information, contact the Montana Department of Agriculture's hail specialist at (406) 444-3144 or by email at agr@mt.gov.