Media Advisory: WVU conference to help improve state\'s small farms

February 25th, 2008

* WHAT :* The West Virginia Small Farms Conference will help farmers, potential farmers and students learn how to turn todays economic challenges and opportunities into tomorrows business successes during a potpourri of WVU -organized skill-building sessions.

* WHO :* Finance, horticulture, tourism, aquaculture and culinary specialists from WVU , Penn State, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture and successful businesses will be among the experts working with participants during the three-day event. This is the fourth conference WVU Extension has organized in cooperation with other state and federal agencies.

* WHEN :* 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 26; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28

* WHERE :* Ramada Inn Conference Center, 20 Scott Ave., Morgantown

* WHY :* Opportunities and challenges have never been greater for farmers as the cost of energy rises, consumer demand for local foods increases and the economy continues to lose strength. The conferences focus will be on how to apply for grants, organize agritourism businesses, develop new products, reach consumers directly, organize West Virginias first statewide farmers market organization and other business strategies and tactics.

* PHOTO /VIDEO OPS :* A variety of opportunities will be available, including:

  • 4-5:30 p.m. TuesdayHigh tunnel techniques for cold climate vegetables
  • 9 a.m.-noon WednesdayOn-Farm Energy Bar: Alternative Sources and Conservation(Part I)
  • 1-4 p.m. WednesdayOn-Farm Energy Bar: Alternative Sources and Conservation(Part II)
  • 11 a.m.-noon ThursdayA West Virginia Meal,demonstration by Dale Hawkins, executive chef of Stonewall Resort, Roanoke

See the full schedule atwww.wvu.edu/~agexten/sustanag/events/SF2008_Home.html.

NOTE : For more information, contact Tom McConnell, WVU Extension specialist and conference organizer, at 304-698-7007.