OFFER Will Host Meeting on Organic Research, November 21, 2019

Oct. 25, 2019
gather around organics

Positioning Ohio as a Leader in Organics

A Meeting to Discuss Research Priorities and Resources

Thursday, November 21, 2019
Wooster, Ohio    9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.*
Research Services Room 126

There has never been a better time to engage in organic research. As consumer demand and organic acreage grows, producers need answers and innovation regarding production systems, pest management, nutrition, marketing, economics, genetics, and more, posing a variety of intriguing research questions. Recognizing these needs, the 2019 Farm Bill substantially increased funding for organic research.

Organic funding sources commonly call for an increased level of engagement with organic farmers, including on-farm research, the creation of educational resources, and other outreach efforts--goals that mirror the mission of cooperative extension.

Whether you’re new to organic research or a seasoned veteran, we welcome you to join us for a workshop focused on planning high quality organic research proposals. This event is open to faculty, students, county educators, and staff members—anyone engaged in research and outreach. The program will feature invited speakers from USDA-NIFA, the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association, and other regional organic research partners. 

Topics will include:

  • trends and growth in Ohio organic production
  • research priorities
  • resources available to fund, plan, and carry out organic research projects
  • keys to NIFA grant application success
  • strategies for building resources for the future
  • See full schedule with speakers. 

County and Columbus-based employees are encouraged to join us in Wooster, but a zoom link will also be supplied. Please register here. The meeting goes from 9-12,* but Wooster attendees are welcome to linger for a light lunch and discussion.

For questions, contact Cassy Brown (brown.1844@osu.edu or 330-262-3634) any of our meeting planning committee members, listed below.

Kathy Bieleck 
Cassy Brown  
Steve Culman
Doug Doohan
Cathy Herms
Doug Jackson-Smith
Matt Kleinhenz