Sep 27, 2023

Organic Growers Summit explores regenerative agriculture

“Regenerative agriculture” is a fast-growing term that is helping to reshape how food is grown, but what does it mean for the organic fresh produce industry? A panel of organic industry leaders will address the trends and future related to regenerative and organic production at Organic Grower Summit.

“Regenerative — What Does it Mean for Organic?” will feature three experts in organic fresh produce discussing the relationship between regenerative and organic agriculture. Moderated by Jessy Beckett Parr, chief program officer at CCOF, session panelists are Eric Morgan, vice president of environmental science and resources for Braga Fresh; Vernon Peterson, president and founder of Abundant Harvest Organics; and Rebecca Gildiner, director of sustainability at Daily Harvest.

As regenerative agriculture continues to evolve, questions related to how it will effect organic production are front and center. What does the rise in the use of this buzzword mean for organic, and how are companies defining the relationship between regenerative and organic?

Described as an alternative means of producing food, with claims of lessening negative environmental and social impacts, regenerative agriculture is designed to prioritize soil health and create farm systems that work in harmony with nature to improve the quality of life.

“As an organic community, we need to stay informed and integrated into the regenerative conversation. And as market forces push for the adoption of regenerative claims and language, what does this mean for the organic brand and label?” Parr said in a news release. “This panel will address the trends and standards of regenerative organic marketing and certification.”

The sixth annual Organic Grower Summit is designed to provide information vital to organic growers and producers as well as an overview of the opportunities and challenges in the production of organic fresh food.

Highlighting the two-day event is a sold-out trade show floor featuring soil amendment, AgTech, food safety, packaging, and equipment exhibitors who will have the opportunity to connect with organic field production staff, supply chain managers, pest management advisors and food safety experts.

“OGS 2023 will provide up-to-date resources and information to support the continued success of organic producers, with an emphasis on the changing organic production landscape as well as the role of ag technology,” Matt Seeley, CEO of Organic Produce Network, said in the release. “From seed to soil to harvest, our goal is to present the most relevant and timely information on the most important subjects and issues facing organic production.”

OGS 2023 will be Nov. 29-30 at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa in Monterey, California. Further details on the educational program, including session topics and speakers, will be released in the coming weeks. For more information, visit organicgrowersummit.com.

The Organic Growers Summit is presented Western Growers and OPN.