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Monday, February 25, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORY:

WVU conference to help improve state's small farms

WHAT: The West Virginia Small Farms Conference will help farmers, potential farmers and students learn how to turn today’s economic challenges and opportunities into tomorrow’s 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 conference’s focus will be on how to apply for grants, organize agritourism businesses, develop new products, reach consumers directly, organize West Virginia’s 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. Tuesday – High tunnel techniques for cold climate vegetables
  • 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday – “On-Farm Energy Bar: Alternative Sources and Conservation” (Part I)
  • 1-4 p.m. Wednesday – “On-Farm Energy Bar: Alternative Sources and Conservation” (Part II)
  • 11 a.m.-noon Thursday – “A West Virginia Meal,” demonstration by Dale Hawkins, executive chef of Stonewall Resort, Roanoke

See the full schedule at www.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.

fsm/2/25/08
Contacts:
Ann Bailey Berry
WVU Extension Communications
Office: (304) 293-5691