The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) State Organic Program (SOP) and UC Organic Agriculture Institute (OAI) partnered Sept. 17-18 to offer organic agriculture networking opportunities in the Fresno area. The goal was to foster community, build meaningful connections among producers and professionals working in organic agriculture, and exchange information about local opportunities and needs as they relate to organic production in the San Joaquin Valley.
On Sept. 17, OAI organized tours of organic farms Nichols Farms, Cardoza & Cardoza Farming Co. and Blossom Bluff Orchards. OAI has a contract with SOP to develop such outreach and educational activities to experience firsthand what’s involved in the organic farming process.
The farm tours also offered attending SOP staff and members of the California Organic Products Advisory Committee (COPAC) a chance to share information and resources with these organic farmers, while providing information and receiving direct feedback on issues, challenges and successes for organic farming.
On Sept. 17, a networking dinner took place in Clovis. OAI invited local organic farmers, agricultural professionals and technical assistance/resource providers to network with SOP and COPAC members. It was a great opportunity for SOP to describe the work the program does and the role of COPAC.
On Sept. 18, a COPAC meeting was held at the Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Parlier. Agenda items included SOP updates, regenerative agriculture and more.
Click here to learn more about CDFA’s State Organic Program, click here to learn more about COPAC and click here for more information about the UC Organic Agriculture Institute.