In its 34th year, the annual Guelph organic conference is preparing to host hundreds of guests including speakers, exhibitors and attendees from across Canada and the United States.
Over the four-day period, 41 workshops (by paid admission) will take place. There will also be a free trade and sampling expo.
“Anyone who is remotely interested in organics should attend. There is always a really good selection of presentations and it’s becoming more and more critical to know where our food is coming from and what is being used to produce it,” says Norm Eygenraam, president of Multi Shelter Solutions in Palmerston.
“It’s a show without a lot of glitz and glam that offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about organics,” says Eygenraam. “I’ve been involved for more than 15 years,” he adds.
For Laura Baer, an organic farmer at Vibrant Farms and registered massage therapist, it’s the passion and excitement of the conference that keeps her coming back.
“I’ve been involved with the conference ever since my first year at University of Guelph in 2007. I always meet new people who are excited and inspired about creating changes in their communities,” she says.
“There are workshops and speakers that appeal to the everyday consumer, the small farmer and the large organic farmer and or distributor,” notes Baer. However she warns, “you’ll be so inspired after you leave, you’ll just have to come back next year.”
Martin de Groot, owner of Mapleton’s Organics, says “the Guelph conference is like a reunion – where you meet old friends as well as new.”
He notes that the conference is a welcome highlight for him during the winter season, and “gives hope when so many like-minded and positive people are together.”
“Whether you are interested in growing organically in your backyard or on 2,000 acres you’re going to access a wealth of expertise and information,” says Tomas Nimmo, conference manager.
“For consumers, over 30 of our exhibitors will be sampling their organic products on the Saturday and Sunday. There is a wide variety from chocolate to carrot juice, cheese to pickles, miso soup and more,” he adds.
Gardening enthusiasts will be able to get a jump start on their plans as they visit multiple seed vendors and learn about permaculture, pollination and biodynamics.
Nimmo also bills the conference as a one stop shop for farmers looking to organics as a way to increase their farm revenue.
“It’s an opportunity for farmers – big and small – to network with established organic producers and buyers. They’ll walk away with a clear picture of pricing, volumes, opportunities and more,” he notes.
The Guelph Organic Conference takes place at the Guelph University Centre from Jan. 29 to Feb. 1.
Baer will be one of the panelists at the Organic Foods and Holistic Health Symposium taking place on, Jan. 29 starting at 6pm.
Eygenraam will be presenting “greenhouses 101 – knowing the basics before you buy – choices and consequences” on Jan. 31 at 11am.
De Groot will be scooping organic ice cream, including speciality flavour vanilla maple sugar, at the Mapleton’s booth on the main floor.
To see the full 41 workshop schedule visit www.guelphorganicconf.ca. Online registration is available until Jan. 25 at noon. After Jan. 25, individuals can register on site. A full list of exhibitors is also available at the event website.
