Biodynamic Herbs & Principles at Blossom’s
Tuesday, January 19, 2027
9:30 am - 2:30 pm
Join us for an immersive, hands-on field day exploring biodynamic farming as a truly regenerative farming system. Discover how biodynamic principles promote healthy soil, plants, animals, and people and are essential to the foundation of thriving community ecosystems. We'll explore soil biology, the rhythms of nature, biodynamic preparations, medicinal herbs, and whole-systems cultivation practices, deepening our understanding of food as medicine. This deep dive into the essence of biodynamics on January 19, 2027, 9:30-2:30 p.m. is the first in a four-part seasonal intensive with Carin and Delmar, Demeter-certified farmer/educators.
$50 - Includes lunch. | Location: Blossoms Farm, Aromas, CA
Farm to School
Wednesday, January 20, 2027
9 am - 6 pm
This pre-conference panel explores how California can strengthen organic farm-to-institution pathways across higher education, K–12 schools, healthcare systems, and statewide advocacy efforts. Panelists representing UC campuses, school districts, hospital food programs, and policy leaders will discuss strategies to expand procurement of organic, regionally sourced foods while addressing barriers in distribution, pricing, and producer capacity. Through case studies and cross-sector dialogue, the session highlights collaborative models that support small and mid-scale farmers, advance equity, and build resilient supply chains. Participants will gain insights into scaling impact and driving systemic change across California’s institutional food landscape.
$125 -Includes lunch. | Location: Asilomar Conference Grounds
Medicinal Herbs
Wednesday, January 20, 2027
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Demand for organic medicinal herbs continues to grow, creating new opportunities for domestic production. This full-day pre-conference intensive explores market trends, regulatory requirements, quality expectations, supply chain challenges, and resources to expand domestic cultivation. Designed for mid-size and large growers, landowners, processors, researchers, and industry partners, the event will provide a clearer understanding of the opportunities, partnerships, and investments needed to support the long-term growth of the organic domestic herb industry.
$125 - Lunch provided. | Location: Asilomar Conference Grounds
EcoFarm Bus Tour 2026
Wednesday, January 20, 2027
8 am -6 pm
This year’s EcoFarm Bus tour will visit some of the region’s most innovative organic farms, showcasing methods such as regenerative soil management, diversified cropping systems, organic livestock integration, and on-farm innovation. Farmers will share their experiences, challenges, and successes, offering practical knowledge and inspiration for growers, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.
Join us for a day-long tour to learn how these farms and ranches are cultivating healthy soils and fostering resilient, biodiverse ecosystems; a unique opportunity to see sustainable agriculture in action, connect directly with growers, and gain insights into the diverse practices that define today’s organic movement.
Whether you’re new to organic agriculture or a seasoned practitioner, this tour provides valuable learning, hands-on observation, and a chance to network with fellow attendees in a relaxed, scenic setting. Comfortable transportation, a continental breakfast, and lunch are provided.
$135 - Includes lunch. Location: Departs from and returns to Asilomar Conference Grounds
Produce Safety Alliance (PSA) Grower Training Course
Wednesday, January 20, 2027
9 am-6 pm
The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule (PSR) sets minimum food safety standards for the production of fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts. The Produce Safety Alliance (PSA) Grower Training course was developed to educate growers and farm workers about the PSR and assist with implementation of practices to satisfy the regulatory requirements set forth by the PSR. At least one individual from the farming operation must attend a PSA Grower training course to meet regulatory requirements.
The University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources has established a Produce Safety Technical Assistance Program to support growers in California with PSR compliance. They will be presenting the PSA Grower Training course at this pre-conference.
The course registration fee is $10.00 for California residents. | Location: Asilomar Conference Grounds
