By Scout Nelson
The Great Plains Growers Conference, an essential gathering for vegetable, fruit, cut flower, and specialty crop growers from states including Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, and Nebraska, will take place from January 9-11 at the USD DakotaDome.
This premier event draws 350-400 attendees annually, ranging from full-time market vendors to part-time horticulture producers, providing them with a platform to delve into the latest industry trends and practices.
The conference kicks off on Thursday, January 9th, with full-day, topic-specific workshops that require a separate admission fee. These workshops offer specialized knowledge in areas such as Hard Cider production, Marketing Boot Camp, and Nut Orchards, providing valuable insights for attendees looking to deepen their expertise.
The main conference, running on Friday and Saturday, January 10th and 11th, includes a series of educational tracks covering a wide array of subjects crucial for today's growers.
Key topics include Business Development & Marketing, Vegetable Production, Greenhouse & Hydroponic Production, Protected Culture, Integrated Pest Management, and Organic/Regenerative Farming. Each session is designed to offer practical strategies that can be immediately applied to improve crop production and business operations.
In addition to the rich educational content, the conference features a vibrant trade show with over 40 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services in the industry. This setting not only provides insights into new technologies and tools but also offers ample networking opportunities, allowing growers to connect with peers and industry leaders.
Special events, such as the S ARE Farmer Forum and the Growers Innovation Night, further enhanced the conference experience, offering more informal settings for learning and engagement. The event's schedule also includes meals and breaks, where participants can discuss the sessions and exchange ideas in a relaxed atmosphere.
Overall, the Great Plains Growers Conference represents a key opportunity for agricultural professionals in the Midwest to gather, learn, and grow together.
By attending, participants will gain access to cutting-edge agricultural practices and develop relationships that can lead to future collaborations and enhanced agricultural endeavors. For those interested in participating, registration details and additional information can be found on the conference's official website.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: Kansas, Business, Education