Organic Grower Summit 2023 presented by Western Growers and OPN
MONTEREY, CA—September 20, 2023 – “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 outlook related to regenerative and organic production at Organic Grower Summit 2023 presented by Western Growers BB #:144734 and OPN BB #:338018.
“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, the session will include panelists 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 impact organic production are front and center. What does the rise in the use of this buzz word 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?” said Parr. “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, ag tech, 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,” said Matt Seeley, CEO of Organic Produce Network. “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 held November 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 on the sixth annual OGS, please visit www.organicgrowersummit.com.
About Organic Produce Network
OPN is a marketing organization serving as the go-to resource for the organic fresh produce industry. The company’s mission is to inform and educate through a strong digital presence with an emphasis on original content and complemented by engaging live events that bring together various components of the organic food community. The OPN audience includes organic producers, handlers, distributors, processors, wholesalers, foodservice operators, and retailers.
About Western Growers
Founded in 1926, Western Growers represents local and regional family farmers growing fresh produce in Arizona, California, Colorado, and New Mexico. Our members and their workers provide over half the nation’s fresh fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts, including nearly half of America’s fresh organic produce. Some members also farm throughout the US and in other countries, so people have year-round access to nutritious food. For generations, we have provided variety and healthy choices to consumers. Connect with and learn more about Western Growers on our Twitter and Facebook.
