Second Annual Small-Farm Workshop Set
Small farms represent more than 90% of all farms in Florida. In 2002, the latest year data is available from the US, Florida farms sold more than $6 billion worth of agricultural products, with product sales from small farms representing about 15% of that total.
The second annual 2007 South Central Florida Small Farm and Alternative Enterprise Workshop will demonstrate some of the ways farmers can share in this major part of the state’s economy. The regional event — one of several held throughout the state — will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, April 27, and 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., Saturday, April 28, at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota.
The event is hosted by the University of Florida-Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences/Sarasota County Extension. It is sponsored by the University of Florida-Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences/Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (UF-IFAS/FAMU) Small Farm and Alternative Enterprise Program. The workshop is open to small and mid-size landowners who are considering growing crops and animals for profit or pleasure. Speakers will discuss how to make an informed decision about starting and operating a variety of small farming enterprises, such as hydroponics, organic vegetable production, pasture-raised poultry, gourmet mushrooms, community-supported agriculture and renewable energies.
The Florida Association of Community Farmers' Markets (FACFM) is a partner in the event and will provide the latest information about the local food system to farmers, chefs and other interested parties. Presentations will include the benefits of direct marketing, booth displays, food safety, and market management, as well as a farmer/chef “mixer,” which will allow these two facets of the food system to meet and exchange ideas to better utilize their respective talents.
Pre-registration by April 17 is recommended. Pre-registration cost of the workshop is $10 for Friday, $25 for Saturday or $30 for both days. On-site registration cost is $15 for Friday, $30 for Saturday or $40 for both days. Registration cost includes lunch and all program materials. For more information, program agenda and registration instructions, please visit the online registration center of the UF/IFAS-Sarasota County Extension Web site at http://sarasota.extension.ufl.edu/EdSched.htm.
For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask about the 2007 South Central Florida Small Farm and Alternative Enterprise Workshop.
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