The Rising Influence of Regenerative Agriculture in Organic Farming
The concept of ‘regenerative agriculture’ is revolutionizing the way we approach food production, particularly within the organic fresh produce sector. The upcoming Organic Grower Summit 2023, co-hosted by Western Growers and OPN, aims to delve into the dynamic relationship between regenerative and organic agricultural practices.
The session titled ‘Regenerative—What Does it Mean for Organic?’ will be moderated by Jessy Beckett Parr, CCOF’s chief program officer. It will feature insights from three specialists in the organic produce realm: Eric Morgan from Braga Fresh, Vernon Peterson of Abundant Harvest Organics, and Rebecca Gildiner at Daily Harvest.
The evolving nature of regenerative agriculture raises pivotal questions about its impact on organic farming. This session will explore how the increasing popularity of regenerative practices influences the organic sector and how companies are interpreting and linking regenerative and organic methodologies.
The Philosophy and Practice of Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture, often viewed as a transformative approach to food production, aims to reduce environmental and social adversities. It focuses on enhancing soil health and developing farm ecosystems that coexist harmoniously with nature, ultimately benefiting overall quality of life.
Jessy Beckett Parr emphasizes the need for the organic community to be actively engaged in discussions about regenerative agriculture. “As the market gravitates towards regenerative claims and terminology, it’s crucial to understand what this shift means for the organic brand and certification,” Parr notes. The panel will discuss emerging trends and standards in regenerative organic marketing and certification, shedding light on these evolving concepts.
The Sixth Annual Organic Grower Summit: A Hub for Organic Innovation
The Organic Grower Summit 2023 is set to be a pivotal event for organic growers and producers. It promises to offer essential insights into the challenges and opportunities in organic fresh food production.
A highlight of the summit is the fully booked trade show, featuring exhibitors from various sectors such as soil amendments, agricultural technology, food safety, packaging, and equipment. This provides an invaluable networking opportunity for organic field production staff, supply chain managers, pest management advisors, and food safety experts.
Matt Seeley, CEO of the Organic Produce Network, shares his vision for the event: “OGS 2023 is dedicated to providing contemporary resources and information to bolster the success of organic producers. We aim to address the evolving landscape of organic production and the increasing role of agricultural technology.” The summit’s goal is to offer current and critical information on key topics and issues relevant to organic farming, from seed cultivation to harvest.