Michelle Wander, soil science professor at the University of Illinois, discusses how farmers can measure their progress and leverage that progress for future growth.
NRCS and other Federal Programs for Organic Farmers
Jonathan Manuel of the Champaign County Soil and Water Conservation District explores how to use government programs for assistance to organic transition.
Farmer Networks
Adam Davis of the USDA discusses the advantages to farmers and researchers of setting up a farmer-led research network in Illinois.
Brand the Farm, not the Food – Protecting the “local” in local grains
Bill Davison of University of Illinois Extension highlights the importance of protecting the local grain economy from large commercial interests and offers practical solutions for independent farmers.
Organics: A Farm Manager’s Perspective
Gary McDonald, organic farming consultant, explores the farm manager’s perspective on growing the organic grain economy in Illinois.
Financial State of the Organic Grains Industry
Richard Ritter of Flanagan State Bank discusses the size and breadth of the organic grains market.
