MOFFA 2018 WINTER MEETING SPEAKERS

MOFFA WINTER MEETING 2018
FEBRUARY 17, 2018
(Snow Date February 24)
8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Maryland Dept. of Agriculture
50 Harry S. Truman Parkway
Annapolis, MD 21401

Keynote Speaker Ben Friton of Can YA Love & Forested, LLC: Friton leads seminars and lectures around the world focusing on restoring ecosystems using biomimicry. He has worked in densely populated communities and has patented vertical garden systems and currently is trying to develop the most ecologically beneficial agricultural systems possible.

Susan Payne, Maryland Department of Agriculture, Maryland Healthy Soils Consortium:  Payne coordinates the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Certainty and Ecosystem Markets Programs and administers the Department’s Agricultural Nutrient and Sediment Credit Certification Program and its Healthy Soils Initiative. In addition to working with relevant federal and state agencies and entities, she sits on many national, regional, and inter-agency committees addressing water quality trading, interstate ecosystem markets, regenerative agriculture, climate change, and greenhouse gas reductions.

Roger Williams, George Washington Carver Agricultural Institute and New Incubator Farm Training Initiative at Tufts: Roger came to Culpeper in the fall of 2015 to join the Carver Piedmont team. Coming from a career in IT and design engineering, he has integrated his systematic process thinking with a deep interest in both education and the study of the soil interrelationships required for sustainable farming. Handing off his three-year stint as President of the Central Maryland Beekeepers Association to make the move south, he brings his focus to creating the structure for the New Farmers Training program at the Carver Piedmont center.

Cerruti RR Hooks, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Entomology at UMD: Organic research is a major part of his research program. The overall aim of the organic research program is to develop and disseminate information on production tactics that reduces off farm inputs while increasing profits. He specifically conducts research on lands going through organic transition and in double-cropping organic production systems with the long-term goal to provide producers information that gives them greater economical sustainability and confidence in transitioning land to organic production. To accomplish our organic objectives, we employ a trans-disciplinary strategy that includes collaboration with Agricultural Economists, Acarologist, Weed and Soil Ecologists, Nematologists, and Entomologists.

Andrew G. Ristvey, Ph.D., University of Maryland Extension: Ristvey currently works at the Department of Extension, University of Maryland, College Park. Andrew does research in Water Science, Soil Science and Irrigation and Water Management. He received his Master of Science degree in 1993 from the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore in the MEES program. Soon after he worked on shoreline restoration and then wetland and forest-stand delineation. Ristvey spent two years doing environmental and horticultural education at Adkins Arboretum inside Maryland’s Tuckahoe State Park.

Galen Dively, Professor Emeritus and IPM Consultant, UMD:  Dr. Galen P. Dively is an emeritus professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology at Juniata College and doctorate in entomology from Rutgers University. He worked as an Extension Specialist in agricultural IPM for 34 years, providing training and ways to reduce pesticide use in vegetable and field crops. Since his retirement in 2006, he continues to conduct research on transgenic Bt crops, sublethal effects of pesticides, efficacy evaluation of organic insecticides, and studies addressing information gaps in the biology and management of the invasive pests.

Erik de Guzman & Meghan Ochal, Dicot Farm: Dicot Farm grows Certified Organic vegetables in Waldorf, MD – 25 miles south of Washington, DC. Their goal is to provide nutrient-dense foods to neighbors to help them become healthier and happier, and create a more equitable and engaged community.

Dominic Hosack, THEARC Farm: is an urban farm operating as a community project of Building Bridges Across the River (BBAR) and was developed to involve the community in nature, nutrition, and healthy eating. The farm consists of 25 raised beds, 8 in-ground rows, a culinary herb garden, medicinal herb garden, an eighteen-tree orchard, community compost bins, a hoop house and a pollinator garden.

Peter Scott, Fields 4 Valor (F4V):  is a non-profit organization that provides food, education, and employment to veterans, veteran family members, and gold star families. F4V does this through providing members, at no cost, with; Farms Shares, Apiary Products, Fruit Shares, Value Added Food Products, Dry Goods, and Culinary Education.

Through these activities, F4V hopes to provide a healthy diet, ease the financial burden of transitioning from service, recovering from injury and/or disability, and continuing life after the loss of a loved one.

Benny Pino & Courtney Sauer, Loblolly Farm: an organic farm in Brandywine, MD producing seasonal flowers and produce and specializing in wedding and event design. Nestled along the corridor of the Patuxent & Potomac Rivers in Southern Maryland, they cultivate over 35 species of flowers in over 100 different varieties on their one-acre farm. They believe in slow, locally grown flowers, nurtured for their intrinsic qualities.

Neith Little, Urban Agriculture Educator, University of Maryland Extension: Little is the urban agriculture Extension Educator for Baltimore City. Her role is to help urban farmers learn what they need to better achieve their goals through one-on-one technical assistance, workshops, field days, written resources, and applied research.

Mike Klein, Good Fortune Farm: Long time MOFFA member, Klien runs a small diversified farm using organic methods located just 20 miles south of Washington DC near Waldorf, MD. Their primary crops are seasonal market vegetables. They also raise pastured eggs, chicken and turkey for meat.

Gerald Brust, Ph.D., University of Maryland Extension, IPM Vegetable Specialist: Brust is the IPM Vegetable Specialist responsible for providing leadership in the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive agriculture and natural resources extension education and applied research program in vegetable crops. He develops sustainable production systems for Maryland’s commercial vegetable industry by supporting the commercial vegetable industry (including organic). Burst examines and develops new pest and nutrient management programs for growers by working with the industry through education and research to promote sustainable production practices that minimize environmental impacts.

Rachael Childress Nagle, Heritage Ferments and Cultures: Rachael is a fermentation alchemist who has been experimenting with fermentation for many years. She is extremely knowledgeable about the science of live cultures and shares many historical tidbits that will tweak your interest. Rachael lives in Delaware with her husband and 3 children.

Alan Leslie, Postdoctoral Research Associate UMD Department of Entomology: Alan Leslie earned his Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Maryland, and is currently a Postdoctoral Associate in the Hooks Lab at UMD. His research focuses on cultural practices such as plant diversification and cover cropping that promote beneficial insects and suppress pests that can be applied to organic farming systems. Alan has also conducted research on aquatic invertebrates in agricultural drainage ditches and insects in restored salt marshes in the Chesapeake Bay. His talk is entitled “Controlling Weeds in Organic Vegetables with Living Mulches”.

Eric Rice, Willow Oaks Craft Cider: Eric and Lori Rice craft their farmhouse style cider from certified organic, American heirloom apples on their 35-acre farm in Middletown, Maryland. Their farm is a productive, small, family farm located in the heart of the Middletown Valley of Maryland. The farm is the state’s first certified organic orchard, with over 1800 apple, cherry, pear, peach, and apricot trees. As an early advocate for organic agriculture, Eric participated in the beginnings of the organic program in Maryland, collaborating to write the state regulations as well as helping to found MOFFA.

Dr. Kris Nichols, Soil Microbiologist & KRIS Systems Education & Consulting Services: Dr. Nichols is a leader in the movement to regenerate soils for healthy food, people and a planet. She is currently the founder and principle scientist of KRIS (Knowledge for Regeneration In Soils) Systems Education & Consulting Services and a sub-contractor with Soil Health Consulting, Inc. Her current focus is to address current and future agricultural needs by exploring the similarities between the soil and gut microbiomes by looking at the carbon key. Kris builds upon a soil health foundation to identify biological methods for agricultural production and tools and practices to reduce pest issues, soil erosion, fossil fuel use, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Nick Maravell, Nick’s Organic Farm: Nick has farmed organically since 1979 and he emphasizes value added on-farm processing and direct marketing. He uses a diversified farming system to produce vegetables, forages, grains, seed, beef, poultry, eggs and poultry feed. Nick has also been active for many years at the national and state level in the development of organic legislation and standards, organic research priorities, and organic marketing issues. He is a founding board member of MOFFA, has served as a steering committee member on the Scientific Congress on Organic Agricultural Research and actively participated in drafting its National Organic Research Agenda, published in 2007.

Mike Tabor, Licking Creek Bend Farm: Owner and social activist, Michael started Licking Creek Bend Farm in 1972 and two years later he participated in his first farmers’ market in Washington, D.C.  His mission is to provide delicious and nutritious food at an affordable price. He is a long-standing member of MOFFA.

Alexis Baden-Mayer, Political Director at Organic Consumers Association: Baden-Mayer is a lawyer and activist who has contributed to some of the organizations most successful projects, including the Millions Against Monsanto campaign.

 

Ben Friton of Can YA Love and Forested will be Keynote Speaker at MOFFA 2018 Winter Meeting

Keynote Speaker Ben Friton of Can YA Love & Forested will discuss the History of Agriculture and Going Back to the Fundamentals of Thriving Ecosystems at the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association 2018 Winter Meeting.Ben Friton of Can YA Love and Forested

Friton leads seminars and lectures around the world focusing on restoring ecosystems using biomimicry. He has worked in densely populated communities and has patented vertical garden systems and currently is trying to develop the most ecologically beneficial agricultural systems possible.

The 27th Annual MOFFA Winter Meeting is on Saturday February 17, 2018 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Maryland Department of Agriculture Building, 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis. The meeting is open to the public. Snow date is Feb. 24, 2018.

Join farmers, consumers, advocates, and researchers at this public meeting and potluck lunch. MOFFA Board Member, Claudia Raskin said:

“We will have information you can use,  dynamic presentations and workshops for farmers, gardeners, and folks who are interested in organic food, food justice, and more.  You can learn something new or share your experience.  Our organic potluck lunch is Legendary!  Book sale!  Auction!”

Hear from Farmers and Activists:

  • Nick Maravell Facilitator, Public Policy Update – with Mike Tabor, and Alexis Badenmyer
  • Susan Frick Payne, from the Maryland Department of Agriculture will discuss the  Maryland Healthy Soils Consortium.
  • Rachael Childress Nagle, Fermentation – Microbes & How they Impact Our Health
  • Eric Rice, Willow Oaks Craft Cider, Opportunities & Questions – Hard Ciders & Beyond
  • Mike Klein, Simplifying accounting, tax preparation and taxes for the farmer
  • Roger Williams, George Washington Carver Agricultural Institute and New Incubator Farm Training Initiative at Tufts, Are Value-Added Farm Products a Good Choice for You?
  • Erik de Guzman & Meghan Ochal, Dicot Farm, Dominic Hosack, THEARC Farm, Peter Scott, Fields 4 Valor, Panel Discussion: New Voices in Organic Agriculture

Learn from University of Maryland Extension Specialists and Scientists:

  • Cerruti RR Hooks, UMD, Can spiders contribute to organic pest management?
  • Alan W. Leslie, UMD, Controlling weeds in organic vegetables with living mulches
  • Andrew G. Ristvey, UMD Extension, Growing Hops
  • Gerald Brust, UMD Extension, Using plant biostimulants
  • Neith Little, UMD Extension, What is urban agriculture?
  • Galen Dively, UMD, Organic insecticides: what works and what doesn’t

Check the MOFFA events page, marylandorganic.org/events, for updates on the agenda.

Attendees please bring a dish to share for the Potluck Lunch, one of the highlights of the meeting. You are encouraged to donate an item for the Auction to support MOFFA. Members may bring display materials. Table space will be available in exchange for auction item donations.

Registration is $20 for non-members and $5 for members. Membership is $25 for one year, $45 for two years and $12 for students. Registration is at the door or online.

Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association (MOFFA) was established in 1991 as a non-profit organization. MOFFA strives to build a sustainable network of individuals and organizations that support small farms, family gardens and ecologically sound businesses.

MOFFA has a Great Variety of Speakers Lined Up for Winter Meeting

MOFFA 2017 WINTER MEETING SPEAKERS

Kirsten S. Traynor, PhD, Flickerwood Apiary– studies how pesticides impact honey bee health for the University of Maryland in the lab of Dr. Dennis vanEngelsdorp and is the editor of Bee World, published by the International Bee Research Association.

Bernie Fowler, Jr., Farming 4 Hunger (F4H) is a non-profit organization formed in 2012 to serve those in need of fresh food in Southern Maryland. The organization grows and distributes over a million pounds of locally grown, fresh food each year. Bernie Fowler Jr., founder, had a vision through his own personal struggles to help people in his hometown gain better access to fresh fruits and vegetables. F4H accomplishes its mission through unique partnerships with 27 local farms, 20+ churches, local businesses and schools, the Maryland Food Bank, the Department of Corrections, and a great network of community volunteers.

Jason King: Unsun.org UNSUNG,  is the app for ending hunger in America, creating everyday superheroes. The “sharing economy” has never been this awesome. A a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Alan Leslie, Postdoctoral Research Associate UMD Department of Entomology Alan Leslie earned his Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Maryland, and is currently a Postdoctoral Associate in the Hooks Lab at UMD. His research focuses on cultural practices such as plant diversification and cover cropping that promote beneficial insects and suppress pests that can be applied to organic farming systems. Alan has also conducted research on aquatic invertebrates in agricultural drainage ditches and insects in restored salt marshes in the Chesapeake Bay. His talk is entitled “Managing cover crops to suppress weeds in organic vegetables”.

Bonnie Raindrop, Chair of Central Maryland Beekeepers Association, Maryland Pesticide Education Network The Central Maryland Beekeepers Association,Strive to educate our members on the best methods and practices for successful beekeeping, and to educate the public on the importance and value of honeybees in our ecosystem.

Cleo Braver Cottingham Farm Growers of certified organic heirloom vegetables and herbs on the banks of the Goldsborough Creek in Talbot County, Maryland Bee advocacy and  pesticide policy and legislation in Maryland

Galen Dively, Professor Emeritus and IPM Consultant, UMD.  Dr. Galen P. Dively is an emeritus professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology at Juniata College and doctorate in entomology from Rutgers University. He worked as an Extension Specialist in agricultural IPM for 34 years, providing training and ways to reduce pesticide use in vegetable and field crops. Since his retirement in 2006, he continues to conduct research on transgenic Bt crops, sublethal effects of pesticides, efficacy evaluation of organic insecticides, and studies addressing information gaps in the biology and management of the invasive pests.  His talk is entitled “ How changes in conventional pest management practices are impacting organic farming”.

Mitchelle Stephenson, Fair Farms: Fair Farms Maryland is a movement of environmental and public health groups, businesses, consumers, and farmers committed to a sustainable food system. She will lead a discussion about the Atrazine legislation in Maryland that is being introduces by MD Senator Will Smith.

Justine Beaulieu, GAPs educator with UMD Plant Sciences Department The training will cover the basics of food safety for pre and post harvest.  Attendees will receive a certificate of training from MDA.

Nick Maravell, Nicks Organic Farm, Mike Tabor, Licking Creek Bend Farm, Rick Hood, Summer Creek Farm: Farmer discussion of Organic Issues

Marjory Hudson, Mitchelle Stephenson, Fair Farms, Mike Tabor: Workshop on Mobilizing Community Action. How one community is winning the fight a against concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFO).

Deana Baldwin, MDA:  The Maryland Produce Safety Program will provide outreach, education, inspection and enforcement of the federal Food Safety Modernization Act’s Produce Safety Rule.

Beckie Gurley Chesapeake Farm to Table, Veronica Cristo Chesapeake Bounty North Beach Market and Kitchen and Deena Kilmon, Chesapeake Harvest: Food Hub Aggregation

Michael Weese, Michael Weese is a Mycologist and fungal enthusiast in the Mid-Atlantic region.  His work involves being a local teacher, guide, consultant, mushroom cultivator, social sculptor, web administrator, operations manager, photographer, writer, soil engineer, permaculturist, ecologist, environmental steward, conservationist and friend to nearly all he meets. Michael has influenced many people across the globe to forage and cultivate their own mushrooms through sharing his knowledge and experience firsthand online, in the classroom, and field.

Lincoln Smith: Lincoln Smith runs Forested, a 10-acre forest garden in Bowie, MD. He tests forest farming methods, educates aspiring forest farmers, consults on new forest farms and brings forest products to market. He runs a forest garden CSA, designs edible landscapes, and holds forest-to-table events. Creating a Forest Garden Forest gardens produce food and supplies from thriving ecosystems. Learn how to create a layered, polycultural food forest. We’ll discuss forest garden methods, some of the great plants you can grow, and how to take care of them. Learn from Lincoln’s 10 years of forest garden successes and learning experiences.

MOFFA’s 26th Annual Winter Meeting, on Saturday February 11, 2017, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, at the Maryland Department of Agriculture Building, 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis. The meeting is open to the public. Register and get more info at https://marylandorganic.org/events/.

moffa-winter-meeting-2017

Don’t forget our wonderful Potluck Lunch too! Bring a dish to share.

MOFFA WINTER MEETING 2017

Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association to Hold Conference in Annapolis

MOFFA Winter Meeting will be February 11, 2017
The MOFFA Winter Meeting will be February 11, 2017

MOFFA, the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association, announces its 26th Annual Winter Meeting, on Saturday February 11, 2017, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, at the Maryland Department of Agriculture Building, 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis. The meeting is open to the public.

At this public meeting, you can join farmers, consumers, advocates, and researchers. MOFFA Chairperson Holly Budd said, “Whether you are a consumer or distributor looking for good sources of local organic food, or a farmer or gardener in search of new ideas, techniques and inspiration, the MOFFA Winter Meeting has something for you.” The day will consist of presentations, panels, and workshops, including research talks by  University Of Maryland Extension and scientists.

Attendees:

  • Please bring a dish to share for the Potluck Lunch, one of the highlights of the meeting.
  • You can bring seeds to exchange with the other participants in the MOFFA Seed Swap.
  • You are encouraged to donate an item for the Auction to support MOFFA.
  • Members may bring display materials and table space will be available in exchange for auction item donations.

Registration is $20 for non-members and $5 for members. Membership is $25 for one year, $45 for two years and $12 for students. Registration is at the door or online. For more information or to register online, go to marylandorganic.org or contact Holly Budd at 443-975-4181.

More information coming soon!

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Bring a dish to share at the Potluck Lunch. It’s one of the best parts of the MOFFA Winter Meeting!

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Developing the next generation of women and girls as leaders in agriculture, nutrition and dietetics!

WANDA-- an initiative to encourage, engage and empower women & girls to advance their education and leadership in agriculture, nutrition and dietetics. At Howard U.
Learn about WANDA– an initiative to encourage, engage and empower women & girls to advance their education and leadership in agriculture, nutrition and dietetics at the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association Winter Meeting in Annapolis, February 20, 2016

According to the US Agricultural Census roughly 6100 of 3.2 million are black female farmers. And the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics reports only 3600 of 89,000 Registered Dietitians-Nutritionists are black women are among their ranks. Yet one in 4 African-American women older than 55 has diabetes. And more women must become producers of their destiny vs. bystanders to their death.

That’s why investing in women and girls, we build local economies, improve the community’s health and build confidence in them to aspire for change. To this end, NativSol is kick starting WANDA– an initiative to encourage, engage and empower women & girls to advance their education and leadership in agriculture, nutrition and dietetics.

#IAmWanda A global initiative.  to encourage, engage and empower women & girls to advance their education and leadership in agriculture, nutrition and dietetics.
#IAmWanda A global initiative. to encourage, engage and empower women & girls to advance their education and leadership in agriculture, nutrition and dietetics.

Tambra Raye Stevenson, MS Founder/Nutritionist NATIVSOL KITCHEN, come back home Washington, DC, will open the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association Winter Meeting in Annapolis, Maryland on February 20, 2016. In this presentation you will learn why it’s an imperative to invest and how to support the movement. This workshop share the opportunity and the movement creation process of improving the food system with women leaders as change agents.

Tambra Raye Stevenson, MS Founder/Nutritionist NATIVSOL KITCHEN come back home Washington, DC
Tambra Raye Stevenson, MS Founder/Nutritionist NATIVSOL KITCHEN,, will open the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association Winter Meeting in Annapolis, February 20, 2016 with #IAmWanda:Developing the next generation of women and girls as leaders in agriculture, nutrition, and dietetics!

Tambra Raye  has been Honored as the 2014 “Nutrition Hero” by Food & Nutrition Magazine, she is an inspiring speaker, nutrition justice advocate, and consultant. The award-winning Tufts-trained health communicator has emerged as a media source for NBC’s The Grio, WHUR-FM, Huff Post, Washington Post, Sirius XM Radio, NBC Nightly News, BET.com, TheRoot.com, and New America Media.

She has spoken at the U.S. Library of Congress, U.S. Department of Agriculture, W,K, Kellogg Foundation, Howard University, John Jay College, African Immigrant Refugee Foundation, American Public Health Association, and National Association of Black Journalists.

In 2014 Tambra was selected as National Geographic Traveler Magazine’s Traveler of the Year for her passion of finding her Fulani roots in Niger and Nigeria and purpose of promoting health of African heritage foods. As the founder of NATIVSOL KITCHEN, she was shortlisted by the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation as a Young African Leaders Summit delegate in Ethiopia during the African Union Summit to speak on youth employment in Africa related to food security and agriculture.

Coming from a family of healers, she develops cultural and faith-based nutrition and wellness programs. She is the founding member of the DC Mayor’s Office on African Affairs’ Health Education Planning Committee. She serves on the Mission Committee for the American Heart Association and community leadership board for the American Diabetes Association. She created the culinary ministry at Saint Teresa of Avila Roman Catholic Church to address the intersection of faith, food and justice and teaches faith-based nutrition.

She is an advisor for Oldways Preservation Trust’s African Heritage and Health Program and leads the health committee for the NAACP DC Branch and serves on the DC Dept of Health’s diabesity committee. Tambra holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition/premedical sciences and a Spanish minor at Oklahoma State University and completed her dietetic internship from Dominican University. On the David Boren National Security Scholarship, she studied and practiced community health at Ponticifia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra in Dominican Republic. She is a 2013 Echoing Green Fellowship semi-finalist.

The MOFFA Winter Meeting runs from 8:00 am to 5:oo pm, February 20, 2016, at the Maryland Department of Agriculture in Annapolis, Maryland.There will be information for farmers and gardeners in search of new ideas, techniques, & inspiration, as well as networking opportunities for consumers and distributors looking for good sources of local, organic food. For more information about the MOFFA Winter Meeting, please visit the Events Page.

 

Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association to Hold Conference in Annapolis

MOFFA, the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association, announces its 25th Annual
Winter Meeting, on Saturday February 20, 2016, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, at the Maryland
Department of Agriculture Building, 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis. The meeting is open to the public.

Go Back to the Future with Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association: Combining the old tried and true sustainable organic farming techniques with the latest science and research.

At this public meeting, you can join farmers, consumers, advocates, and researchers to:
● Learn how Maryland producers are going back to the roots of organic agriculture, and
beyond organic into the future.
● Add your voice to discussions about nutrition and agriculture, climate change, soil and
sustainable organic farming and gardening.
● Network with some of the pioneers of the organic food movement.
● Find a local CSA, Farmer’s Market, or organic food resource.

MOFFA Chairperson Holly Budd said, “Whether you are a consumer or distributor looking for good sources of local organic food, or a farmer or gardener in search of new ideas, techniques and inspiration, the MOFFA Winter Meeting has something for you.” The day will consist of presentations, panels , and workshops , including research talks by Extension and UMD researchers.

Attendees:
● Should bring a dish to share for the Potluck Lunch , one of the highlights of the meeting.
● Can bring seeds to exchange with the other participants in the MOFFA Seed Swap .
● Are encouraged to donate an item for the Auction to support MOFFA.
● Members may bring display materials and table space will be available in exchange for
auction item donations.

Registration is $20 for non-members and $5 for members. Membership is $25 for one year, $45 for two years and $12 for students. Registration is at the door or online. For more information, or to register online, go to marylandorganic.org.

Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association (MOFFA) was established in 1991 as a
non-profit organization. MOFFA strives to build a sustainable network of individuals and
organizations that support small farms, family gardens and ecologically sound businesses.

Equipment demo at the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association winter Meeting
Equipment demo at the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association winter Meeting

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Keynote at MOFFA meeting: “Turning your dreams of healthy soil into reality”

At the upcoming MOFFA meeting (3 days away!), the keynote speaker, Dr. Moebius-Clune, the Director, Soil Health Division, USDA-NRCS, Washington, DC will speak on:
“Turning your dreams of healthy soil into reality.”

The keynote will be delivered from 9am-10am this Saturday, February 21, at the Maryland Department of Agriculture in Annapolis ( 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway).

Hope to see you there!

MOFFA Winter Meeting Schedule Available

logo  

WINTER MEETING 2015
Emcee: Erroll Mattox
When: February 21 (snow date Feb. 28) 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Maryland Dept. of Agriculture 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis
Only $5 for members; $20 for non-members
Hope to see you there!

Please note: Presentations and times are subject to change.

8:00-8:30    Registration, Coffee
8:30-8:45    Welcome & Announcements
Holly Heintz Budd, MOFFA Chair
8:45-9:00    Introduction to the United Nations International Year of Soils                              Tanya Tolchin, MOFFA Vice-Chair
9:00-            Keynote Speaker on Soil Health:
10:00           “Turning your Dreams of Healthy Soil into Reality”
                      Dr. Bianca Moebius-Clune, Ph.D.
Director, Soil Health Division, USDA-NRCS, Washington, DC
10:00-         Coffee Break
10:30           Silent Auction, Seed Swap, Display Tables, Book Sales Table                                      (Donated by Storey Publishing, 100% of proceeds for MOFFA)
                      Break into separate rooms

10:30-11:00
A) Connecting with Chefs & Distributors
Chris Miller, MOM’s Organic Market
Jonas Singer, Union Kitchen
Terrance Murphy, We’ll Juice Mobile Bar and La Fromagerie
B) Can Reduced Tillage and Cover Crop Residues be used to Manage Weeds in Organically Grown Vegetables?
Cerruti RR Hooks, Ph.D. & Guihua Chen, Ph.D., University of Maryland

11:15-noon
A) Pollinators in Peril
Kirsten Traynor, Ph.D.
University of Maryland and Bee World magazine
B) The Ethnic Crops Program at UDC
Yao M. Afantchao, Extension Agent, Ethnic and Specialty Crops Program, Cooperative Extension Service, CAUSES, University of the District of Columbia (UDC)

12:00-      Homegrown ‘Eat Local’ Potluck Lunch, Silent Auction, Seed Swap,
1:20          Networking
1:20-         Board Elections & Announcements
1:30

1:30-2:15
A) Outreach to Low & Moderate Income Shoppers at Farm Markets
Michael Tabor, Licking Creek Bend Farm, will screen his video and share questions & skepticism about current approaches to increasing access to fresh foods.
B) Integrating Horsepower & Livestock into the Diversified Farm
Tom Paduano & Sarah Rider, Owners and Farmers, Flying Plow Farm

2:15-     Silent auction winners announced, Seed Swap, Display Tables
2:30      Grab some coffee, Break into separate rooms

2:30-3:15
A) Farm to Faith: Growing Connections
Rev. Rebecca Iannicelli, United Methodist Church
Rev. Darriel Harris, Baltimore Food and Faith Project
Mike Klein, Good Fortune Farm
B) Organic Certification FAQ
Deanna Baldwin, Maryland Department of Agriculture. Certified Organic or considering certification? Deanna Baldwin will update you and answer questions about NOP interpretations and compliance with all of the rules.

3:15-4:00
A) Bio-Fuels
Jay Martin, Provident Organic Farm
B) Good Agricultural Practices
Shirley Micallef, Ph.D. & Sarah Allard, University of Maryland, will give updates on GAP research and practices for organic farming.

4:00-4:45
A) The Monsanto Experiment: What GMOs & Pesticides Are Doing to Human Health & the Environment
Alexis Baden-Mayer, Esq. Political Director, Organic Consumers Association
B) MOFFA Discussion Session
Holly Heintz Budd, Chair, MOFFA & Tanya Tolchin, Vice-Chair, MOFFA Are you new to MOFFA? Have you been a member for a long time? Join this session for a chance to meet others and share your interests, what you’re working on, and why you’re part of MOFFA.

4:45- 5:00 Wrap-up

Urban Farming in Baltimore

Tyler Brown, Farm Manager at Real Food Farm, Baltimore Maryland, will be presenting about the urban farming collective and The Farm Alliance of Baltimore, at the MOFFA Winter Meeting on February 15, 2014.

Real Food Farm is Civic Works’ innovative, multi-plot urban agricultural enterprise engaged in growing fresh produce on six acres of land in Clifton Park in northeast Baltimore. They broke ground in October 2009 and since then, have been busy growing food, educating youth, partnering with community organizations, and bringing more real food to Northeast Baltimore. Real Food Farm works toward a just and sustainable food system by improving neighborhood access to healthy food, providing experience-based education, and developing an economically viable, environmentally responsible local agriculture sector.

Tyler Brown is the Farm Manager at  Real Food Farm, a project of Civic Works, Inc. engaged in growing fresh produce on six acres of land in Clifton Park in northeast Baltimore. Since October 2009, Tyler and Real Food Farm  have been busy growing food, educating youth, partnering with community organizations, and bringing more real food to Northeast Baltimore. He is a Baltimore City Master Gardener and an Urban Trainer in the Future Harvest Beginning Farmer Training Program; currently an advisory board member for the Baltimore City Food Policy Advisory Committee, and Community Greening Resource Network; and a founding member of The Farm Alliance of Baltimore City.

MOFFA, the Maryland Organic Food and Farming Association 23rd Annual Winter Meeting, is on Saturday February 15, 2014, from 8 am to 5:00 pm, at the Maryland Department of Agriculture Building, 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis.

Registration is $20 for non-members and $5 for members. Membership is $25 for one year or $45 for two years. Registration is at the door.

THE FARM BILL – THE GOOD, BAD AND THE UGLY; SPECIFICS ON THE ORGANIC CHALLENGE & FSMA

THE FARM BILL - THE GOOD, BAD AND THE UGLY; SPECIFICS ON THE ORGANIC CHALLENGE & FSMA Tacoma Park Silver Spring Co-op’s Second Annual Food and Public Policy Series:

This year, the series will focus on healthy and safe food and how our representatives are addressing the issue of food safety and the availability of healthy food.

Consumers and Farmers must stay alert as the FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) regulations are developed, in order to protect sustainable farming and access to fresh, organic produce. Find out what’s happening to farmers, the Farm Bill, organic agriculture and the ability for all income groups to have access to sustainable foods. (Are we still subsidizing large farms and penalizing low income folks?)

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY, 1, 2014

THE FOOD SAFETY MODERNIZATION AND ITS IMPACT ON OUR CO-OP AND FAMILY FARMS

1:00 – 4:00PM

Historic Takoma Building
7328 Carroll Ave. Takoma Park MD 20912
 

SPEAKERS:

  •  Michael Taylor, Deputy Director, FDA
  • Ferd Hoefner, NSAC (National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition) — will cover Farm Bill big picture and what is good, bad and ugly in the final product
  • Steve Etka, NOC (National Organic Coalition) – will discuss specific organic issues
  • Ariane Lotti, NSAC – will discuss FSMA, where we are, what comes next and we will all share

Q&A and discussion that follows about the future of sustainable agriculture

 Upcoming forums include:

  • Saturday, Feb 15, 1-4pm, GMOs, AND HOW LEGISLATION MIGHT IMPACT MARYLAND CONSUMERS
  • Guest Speaker: Barbara Mikulski, MD US State Senator
  • Saturday, Feb 22, 1-4pm, HEALTH OF THE BAY AND ITS IMPACT ON FOOD, FARMERS AND CONSUMERS
  • Invited Guest: Ben Cardin, MD  US Senator
  • Saturday, March 1, 1-4pm, IMPACT ON US AGRICULTURE POLICIES ON MARYLAND CONSUMERS
  • Invited Guest: Chris Van Hollen, MD US Congressman, 8th
  • Saturday, March 22, 1-4pm, TAKOMA PARK/SILVER SPRING CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR COUNTY OFFICE AND THEIR POLICIES ON FOOD, AGRICULTURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

 Seating is limited, please do not hold seats.

For more information contact: outreach@tpss.coop

 Please join me for a tour of the Co-op after each event.

Sherri Collins