“Organic farming continues to be one of the fastest growing sectors in American agriculture,” said Jim Kotcon, associate professor of plant and soil sciences. “Part of our mission is to provide best-practice recommendations to help growers succeed. With 20 years of progress at the WVU Organic Farm, we’re in a unique position to illustrate the latest research in organic production methods.”
Established in 1999, the WVU Organic Research Farm project compares organic farming systems to assist growers in the transition from conventional to organic farming methods. On the 144-acre farm, a multidisciplinary team from the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design and WVU Extension Service studies field crops, livestock, organic pasture management, vegetable production, weed, insect and disease management and soil quality.
The event will include workshops, hands-on activities, tours of farm and discussions about faculty, staff and student research programs. Featured presentation topics include organic sheep management, insect pests, soil microorganisms and industrial hemp.
“Other exciting things this year include dinner featuring organic produce grown on the farm and family activities – including the WVU Insect Zoo,” Kotcon said. “We enjoy putting together this event every year and hope participants benefit from our efforts.”
For those who wish to avoid crowds, many of the projects will be available as posters or video presentations on the Organic Field Day website.
Gates open at 1 p.m. with events beginning at 2 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m.
For more information or to see a detailed schedule, visit http://fieldday.wvu.edu.
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CONTACT: Lindsay Willey
Director of Marketing and Communications
304-293-2381; Lindsay.Willey@mail.wvu.edu