Those with smaller agricultural operations in the state, or considering getting into the business, can get a wealth of information on the newest techniques and resources at the ΒιΆΉΣ³» Small Agriculture Conference, May 5-6, at the Santa Fe Station in Las Vegas.
The event is being coordinated by the ΒιΆΉΣ³» Farm Bureau and , a unit of the University’s College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources. The USDA’s Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program (WSARE) is also assisting with the event. Small-acreage producers will be able to network with one another, as well as get the latest information on research, production and resources from experts, such as those from the Farm Bureau, Extension, WSARE, ΒιΆΉΣ³» Department of Agriculture, USDA Farm Service Agency, the University’s Desert Farming Initiative and more.
On May 5, there will be sessions to discuss marketing tools and an evening social and trade show, followed by dinner with a keynote speaker. Tentative breakout sessions that day may include:
- Honey Bee Production, Poultry Production, Vegetable Production
- Time and Stress Management
- Enterprise Budgets, Business Planning, Taxes
- Hydroponic Fodder for Water Conservation, Farming in the Desert and Organic Certifications
On May 6, the lunch session will feature success stories using WSARE funds, and the day will end with a panel discussion with agriculture leaders in the state. Tentative breakout sessions that day may include:
- Opportunities in the Farm Bureau, WSARE Grant Programs
- Food Sovereignty and Food Security
- USDA, Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Services Programs Available
- Value-Added Ag Producer Programs and Requirements
Those planning to attend are encouraged to For those who register online by April 25, fees are $80 (or $55 for ΒιΆΉΣ³» Farm Bureau members). Late registration at the event will be limited, and prices will go up.
For more information, contact Kaley Chapin, Extension outreach specialist at 702-467-2668, or Kyle Reber, ΒιΆΉΣ³» Farm Bureau Federation field representative at 775-870-0079.
Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should contact Paul Lessick, Extension civil rights and compliance coordinator, at 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or for more information.
