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Organic Industry Event

Organicology

Thursday, February 14, 2019 - 8:00am to Saturday, February 16, 2019 - 5:00pm

Organicology 2019 will be taking place February 14 -16 in Portland, OR. With intensive training sessions, workshops, world class keynote speakers, amazing entertainment and networking, Organicology is a conference of its own class. Organicology seeks to bring all of the stakeholder groups to the table to not only develop skills in their own areas of activity but to gain exposure to the challenges and accomplishments of those in other areas of the trade and movement. Each day of Organicology offers different opportunities to learn. Thursday is for intensives, Friday is for workshops and our Ark of Taste Dinner and concert, and Saturday is our Exhibitor Showcase.

The Organic Trade Association’s VP of Regulatory and Technical Affairs, Gwendolyn Wyard, will be leading the following Intensive session taking place on Thursday, February 14.

Intensive: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart? Integrity, Continuous Improvement and Evolution in the Organic Trade

In this intensive, we will look at IFOAM’s “Organic 3.0” and the OTA’s “Bold Steps” as potential guides for navigating the challenges now before us, and the “Middle Path”, developed by Organic Agsystems Consulting and Organically Grown Company staff as a process for deliberating options with the requirement that they provide open paths to continuous improvement through “relentless but patient” progress. Want to participate in shaping the future of the organic sector?  Want to learn how to break-down complex situations and find pragmatic, workable solutions?  Want to develop your management and problem-solving skills?  Then this is the intensive workshop for you!  Be prepared to be engaged!

The Organic Trade Association's Director of Legislative Affairs and Coalitions, Megan DeBates, will be leading the following workshop at the Conference on Friday, February 15.

Farm Bill & Organic Policy in 2019 | 10:00am – 12:00pm
Speakers: Megan Debates; Steve Etka, National Organic Coalition; Nichelle Harriott; Chris Schriener, Oregon Tilth; Brise Tencer      

This workshop will provide an update on the 2018-19 Farm Bill, and dig into policies ranging from working lands conservation and crop insurance to research, certification cost share, and enhanced enforcement against fraudulent organic imports. Learn about key strategies and opportunities for grassroots outreach to engage and mobilize around critical organic wins. Panelists will provide a primer on new and returning members of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, the Organic Caucus, and other policy needs.

Also on Friday, February 15, Gwendolyn Wyard will be speaking at the following workshops:

Ferreting out Fraud and Securing Future Supplies |1:30pm  3:00pm
Speakers: John Saunders; Chris Schriener, Oregon Tilth; Jessica Shade, The Organic Center; Gwendolyn Wyard

This workshop focuses on the tools and technologies to verify organic integrity throughout an increasingly complex supply chain. Panelists will discuss a variety of available and emerging mechanisms for preventing organic fraud, including Blockchain, organic-approved fumigation, and upgrades to electronic organic certificate management.

Private Sector Solutions to Increasing Organic Seed Usage | 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Speakers: Andrew Black; Heron Breen, Fedco Seeds; Micaela Colley, Organic Seed Alliance; Kristina Hubbard, Organic Seed Alliance; Logan Peterman, Organic Valley; Gwendolyn Wyard

The availability of organic seed and planting stock has dramatically increased, yet further improvement is needed. From improving regulatory frameworks to strengthen and clarify organic seed requirements to increased investments in research, education, and resources, this interactive workshop explores private sector solutions to expanding organic seed usage. Panelists will focus on how to develop the relationship and commitment between organic food processors, growers, and seed providers.

Organic Trade Association Board Member David Lively of Organically Grown Company is organizing an Organic Trade Association social at Organicology on Friday, February 15th at 5:00 p.m, taking place at the Hilton in Broadway I/II. 

But What has the Organic Trade Association Done for Me Lately?
Ever wonder exactly what the Organic Trade Association (OTA) does, or how its efforts benefit you?  Or maybe you are one of those of the opinion that the OTA’s activities only serve the needs of “the big boys” and not the historic trade and the organic grower base? Here is a chance to sharpen you awareness of the many challenges facing the organic movement and trade, and learn how our most significant national organization takes them on. This event, sponsored by OTA members from the fresh produce sector, will feature OTA Executive Director Laura Batcha in a Q&A session covering the broad range of concerns and activities that occupy the OTA’s staff and members on a daily basis. The setting is casual and the refreshments first rate. This event is open to both members and non-members. Please join us for an enlightening discussion!

Conference Information:

February 14-16, 2019

Hilton Portland Downtown

Portland, OR

EcoFarm Conference

Wednesday, January 23, 2019 - 10:00am to Saturday, January 26, 2019 - 5:00pm

The Ecological Farming Association (EcoFarm) will present the 39th annual EcoFarm Conference January 23 - 26, 2019 in Pacific Grove, CA - Featuring over 70 workshops, intensives, keynote speakers, an exhibitor marketplace, seed swap, awards banquet, live entertainment, mixers, and organic culinary fare. Workshops offer practical and cutting edge information on crop production, livestock, soil health, marketing, distribution, and food systems. As the oldest and largest organic farming conference in the West, EcoFarm is a prime networking and educational hub for farmers, ranchers, distributors, retailers, activists, researchers, and educators.

The Organic Center's Director of Science Programs, Jessica Shade, will be leading the following workshop at the Conference on January 24th from 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.:

Organic Truths and Lies – the REAL Science Behind the Benefits of Organic
Moderator: Lisa J. Bunin, PhD, Organic Advocacy;
Speakers: Jessica Shade, PhD, The Organic Center; Asa Bradman, PhD, University of California, Berkeley.

Every year  scientific research on the benefits of organic grows and so does the  spread of misinformation about the effects of organic on our health and environment. This workshop will dispel the myths and highlight what some of the most recent scientific studies say, and don’t say about how organic agriculture impacts our communities and ecosystems. You can rest assured that the benefits are enormous. For example, research has shown  that on average, organic farms have 44 percent higher levels of humic acid—the component of soil that sequesters carbon over the long term—than soils not managed organically. Come hear the latest and greatest about how organic fits into positive strategies to improve soil health, biodiversity, clean water, mitigate climate change, and reduce dietary and occupational exposurea to pesticides.

Organic Trade Association Board Member David Lively of Organically Grown Company is organizing an Organic Trade Association social at the EcoFarm Conference on Thursday, January 24th at 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. in the Sanderling room:

But What has the Organic Trade Association Done for Me Lately?
Ever wonder exactly what the Organic Trade Association (OTA) does, or how its efforts benefit you?  Or maybe you are one of those of the opinion that the OTA’s activities only serve the needs of “the big boys” and not the historic trade and the organic grower base? Here is a chance to sharpen you awareness of the many challenges facing the organic movement and trade, and learn how our most significant national organization takes them on. This event, sponsored by OTA members from the fresh produce sector, will feature OTA Executive Director Laura Batcha in a Q&A session covering the broad range of concerns and activities that occupy the OTA’s staff and members on a daily basis. The setting is casual and the refreshments first rate. This event is open to both members and non-members. Please join us for an enlightening discussion!

The Organic Trade Association's CEO/Executive Director, Laura Batcha, will be speaking at a workshop at the Conference on Friday, January 25th from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.:

Real, Regenerative, Regular? Which Organic Seal for You?
Presenters: Laura Batcha, Organic Trade Association; Paul Muller, Full Belly Farm; Elizabeth Whitlow, Regenerative Organic Alliance

After extensive controversy over how USDA regulates certified organic, particularly with regards to hydroponics, animal welfare, and corporate bias, two new certifications have arrived on the scene. Both start with USDA organic and add additional features. Representatives will discuss the new programs and what they offer organic farmers and consumers, and we will also hear the perspective from supporters of the existing USDA program. The Real Organic Project, founded by organic farmers, began in 2018 to refine stricter standards than the USDA, testing them in real-world situations with plans to roll out in 2019. Patagonia, Dr. Bronner’s and Rodale Institute are sponsoring the Regenerative Organic label, an add-on to USDA’s organic program, with significantly stricter regulations for soil management, carbon sequestration, animal welfare, ecosystem protection, and farmworker health and safety.

Conference Information:

January 23-26, 2019

Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds 

Pacific Grove, CA

World Ag Expo

Tuesday, February 12, 2019 - 10:00am to Thursday, February 14, 2019 - 5:00pm

World Ag Expo is the largest annual outdoor agricultural exposition featuring 1,450+ exhibitors and more than 100,000 attendees each year. Each year it is held at the International Agri-Center in Tulare, California,  starting on the second Tuesday of February. It has officially been designated by the U.S. Department of Commerce as an affiliate of the Foreign Buyer Program, which encourages exportation of American made goods. 

The Organic Trade Association's Director of Industry Relations, Membership and Development, Cassandra Christine, will be attending to walk the show floor on Wednesday, February 13. If you'd like to connect with us at the World Ag Expo, contact Cassandra Christine!

Trade Show Information:

February 12-14, 2019

International Agri-Center

Tulare, California

Winter Fancy Food Show

Sunday, January 13, 2019 - 10:00am to Tuesday, January 15, 2019 - 5:00pm

The 44th Winter Fancy Food Show, organized by the Specialty Food Association, will take place January 13-15, 2019 in San Francisco. This show will feature 1,400+ exhibitors from around the globe promoting 80,000+ specialty foods and beverages.

The Organic Trade Association's Director of Industry Relations, Membership and Development, Cassandra Christine, will be attending to walk the show floor. If you'd like to connect with us at Winter Fancy, contact Cassandra Christine

Trade Show Information:

January 13-15, 2019

Mascone Center

San Francisco, CA

Natural Products Expo West

Tuesday, March 5, 2019 - 10:00am to Saturday, March 9, 2019 - 4:00pm

Natural Products Expo West will be taking place March 5-9, 2019 in Anaheim, CA. The Organic Trade Association will be exhibiting at booth #1821 and is a content partner for organic education programming at the show. Click here for more information on organic at Expo West

Don't miss The Organic Center's 16th Annual Benefit Dinner, the biggest all-organic networking dinner at Natural Products Expo West. Expect a thought-provoking program featuring keynote speaker Shannon Allen. Shannon, wife of 2x NBA champion Ray Allen, is the creator and owner of the thriving all-organic fast-food restaurant chain grown™. Enjoy a delicious custom organic menu created by Chef Megan Mitchell featuring products supplied by our sponsors. Megan is a seasoned chef and internet personality who's worked with the Food Network, the Cooking Channel, and Tastemade. Sponsorships are available, or you can buy a table. Individual tickets go on sale in January. Add your name to the waiting list and be first to know when ticket sales launch. 

Trade Show Information:

March 5-9, 2019

Anaheim Convention Center

Anaheim, CA

CCOF Annual Meeting & Conference

Wednesday, February 27, 2019 - 8:00am

The CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) Annual Conference will be taking place on February 27, 2019 in Fresno, CA. The theme for the 2019 Annual Membership Meeting is "Organic Generation: The Next Era."

The Organic Trade Association's CEO/Executive Director, Laura Batcha, will be speaking at the Conference from 11:25a.m. - 12:00p.m. on "What Generations are Eating", this session will cover market trends and how they will impact the future of the organic sector. 

For more information contact Gwendolyn Wyard

Conference Information: 

February 27, 2019

Fresno DoubleTree Hilton Hotel

Fresno, CA

Biofach

Wednesday, February 13, 2019 - 8:00am to Saturday, February 16, 2019 - 5:00pm

Biofach is the world's largest trade show for organic, taking place February 13-16, 2019 in Nuremberg, Germany. The Organic Trade Association will host a pavilion of 14 U.S. organic companies at the show, come visit us at booth 4A-627! This pavilion is already filled, but if you are interested in being added to the waitlist for participation, contact the Organic Trade Association's International Trade Manager, Alexis Carey.

Organic Trade Association's CEO/Executive Director, Laura Batcha, will be presenting the following sessions at Biofach on February 14, 2019:

Global Organic Market | 10:00am - 11:30am | St. Petersburg
Laura will discuss the organic market in North America as well as import/export trade data

Blockchain, remote sensing and non-analytical tools for enhancing integrity in supply chains | 1:00pm - 2:30pm | Oslo
Despite all efforts to improve the regulatory system and components of the organic guarantee, fraud is ongoing. The most recent one was made public in Italy mid-November 2018 by the anti-fraud office. Technologies and tools for improving, if not solving, the core problems are available. It needs a dedicated discussion about new ways to change our approach to action

Additionally, Organic Trade Associatoin staff will also host the following meetings in conjunction with Biofach on February 14, 2019:

GOTS Certifiers Council Meeting | 1:30pm - 4:30pm | Lissabon 
Johanna Mirenda, Organic Trade Association's Farm Policy Director, will facilitate this meeting with the GOTS Certifiers Council. 

EU Stakeholder Meeting |4:00pm - 6:00pm | Prag
During this meeting US and EU organic stakeholders will discuss the effects of changing EU regulations as well as Brexit's effect on the US-EU organic equivelency arrangement. This meeting is invite-only. 

Trade Show Information:

February 13-16, 2019

Nuremberg, Germany 

Organic Grower Summit

Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - 8:00am to Thursday, December 13, 2018 - 3:00pm

The Organic Grower Summit will be taking place December 12 - 13, 2018 in Monterey, CA. This conference brings together organic growers, farmers and producers for two days of education, information and networking with their production, supply chain and support service providers. 

The Organic Trade Association's CEO/Executive Director, Laura Batcha, will be speaking in a session titled, "Organic Data Dive: A Look at the Numbers Driving Decisions on the Farm" taking place on Thursday December 13 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. The session will be moderated by Dan McGovern, editor of Sustainable Food News. Matt Lally of Neilson will provide an overview of current sales data on organic fresh produce and Laura Batcha will share the latest data trends in fresh organics. For more information, contact Cassandra Christine

Conference Information:

December 12 - 13, 2018

Monterey Conference Center

Monterey, CA

 

Provender Alliance Educational Conference

Wednesday, October 3, 2018 - 8:00am to Friday, October 5, 2018 - 5:00pm

The Provender Alliance Educational Conference will be taking place October 3-5, 2018 in Hood River, Oregon. Gwendolyn Wyard, the Organic Trade Association's Vice President of Regulatory & Technical Affairs, and Jessica Shade, The Organic Center's Director of Science Programs, will be presenting the following sessions at the Conference. For more information contact Gwendolyn Wyard

The Controversial Shopping Basket & Keeping USDA Organic Strong
Time: Friday Oct 5th from 10:30AM to 12:00PM
Location: Mt. Adams
Speaker: Gwendolyn Wyard

Back by popular demand! This session will provide up-to-date and accurate information on various controversial organic issues (background and current status) including where the topic is at in the regulatory process and how shoppers can weigh in and make their voices heard. Featured topics in the shopping basket may include (depending on audience interest and current events): animal welfare, allowed non-organic ingredients, GMO labeling regulations, new organic (plus) label claims & private certifications. Do you have specific questions or concerns? Bring your controversial product or label to the workshop and we’ll answer your questions!

Organic Farming and Climate Change
Time: Friday Oct 5th from 1:30PM to 3:00PM
Location: Mt. Hood
Speakers: Jessica Shade, Gwendolyn Wyard

The food system is in an interesting predicament—it’s a significant contributor to one of its own biggest threats—climate change. But fortunately, just as poor land-management practices are contributors to climate change, use of good on-farm practices can actually lead to climate change mitigation. Organic farming is poised to be part of the climate change solution, because organic farmers do not rely on fossil-fuel intensive synthetic inputs to manage pests or increase soil fertility, and they also use farming techniques that sequester carbon in the soil. This workshop will take a deep dive into the scientific research that explores the effect of organic farming practices on energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration. We will also explore challenges expected to face our food production systems in the face of climate change and the research behind organic practices as a means to increase resiliency.

Organic & Non-GMO Forum

Monday, October 29, 2018 - 8:00am to Tuesday, October 30, 2018 - 5:00pm

The fourth annual Organic & Non-GMO Forum will take place on October 29-30, 2018 in St. Louis, MO. 

Hundreds of producers, processors, merchandisers and service providers in the industry will gather to discuss the most pressing issues. From what’s new in gene editing tools to how the long-awaited USDA National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard is shaping up to what’s being done to stop fraud in the organic sector, the forum’s accomplished speakers will deliver on the latest developments.

At the Forum, Gwendolyn Wyard, Vice President of Regulatory and Technical Affairs for the Organic Trade Association (OTA), will shine a light on the ongoing concerns about food disclosure and fraud in the organic sector. In “Addressing Vulnerability to Fraud: A GOSCI Task Force Update”, Wyard will highlight the efforts of the Global Organic Supply Chain Integrity (GOSCI), a 48-member trade group formed in 2017 by OTA to develop a fraud prevention program designed specifically for the organic industry. Thus far, the group has created a comprehensive “best practices” guide to facilitate the industry-wide implementation of systems and measures to preserve the integrity of organic, both inside and outside of the U.S., and is presently overseeing a pilot to prevent and detect fraud in the global organic system. Contact Gwendolyn Wyard with any questions. 

Meeting Information:

October 29-30, 2018

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch

St. Louis, MO

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