Young people have always been at the heart of the MOSES Conference. In partnership with Renewing the Countryside, the
new Young Organic Stewards program now honors them and collects their activities into exciting new programming. This
group includes anyone 18-25 years old who is interested or involved in the organic industry. Four workshops and two social
activities are offered this year to hit hot topics identified by our young farmer planning group.
Workshops
Beginning Farmers
Friday - 8:30 am
Beginning farmers have a lot to learn, from fixing tractors to
navigating investment choices to managing relationships
with mentors, landlords, or even parents. Young farmers
Laura Frerichs, Michelle Benrud, and Janaki Fisher-Merritt
will reflect on the challenges and unique opportunities
available to young people getting started in agriculture.
Acquiring Land
Friday - 2:00 pm
Even if you didn't manage to have yourself born into a
farming family, you can still find ways to get started in
agriculture. Join Wisconsin Farm Center Director Paul
Dietmann for this look at various farm start-up options,
including leasing, partnerships, and the purchase of land.
Educational and Experiential Learning Opportunities
Friday - 4:00 pm
Internships, farmer-training programs, and university
degrees - there are a variety of opportunities to begin a
career in organic farming. Learn from a panel discussion
with Ryan Jepsen, Melanie Timpano and Bev Ruesink
on the pros and cons of their experiences participating in a
farmer training program, working as an organic farm intern,
and completing a college degree.
Planting the Seeds for the Young Organic Stewards
Saturday - 4:00 pm
A grassroots group of 18-25 year olds formed during the
2010 conference to recommend workshops and social
activities for future conferences. This Young Organic Stewards
group initiates dialog, learning and relationships for organic
and sustainable agriculture. What is the next journey? Join
the leadership team to discuss challenges, opportunities and
create next steps for the Young Organic Stewards.
Social Activities
Coffee Jam
Thursday - 8:30 pm
The Root Note, 115 4th St. S, Downtown La Crosse.
The Root Note is a popular place to sip Kickapoo coffee.
Join other Young Organic Stewards to relax, jam to music, or
nibble on local food. Meet in the lobby of the conference
check-in area for a short walk to The Root Note for an
evening of good company. Participants should bring money
to pay for food and beverages. If you are under the age of
18, parents must grant permission to leave the conference
grounds.
Cook and Connect
Friday, 6:30 - 8:00 pm, Radisson Center
Maybe you saw a delicious-looking dish, but you could not
figure out how to make it. Why not learn how to make it
yourself? Food is a force for creating authentic connections
with others. In this class, learn the essentials of vegan
cooking and prepare appetizing recipes. No fee, however
participation limited to 30 on a first-come basis.
