9/11/2025 - In just a few weeks, there is going to be a wonderful, small forest farming conference at the beautiful United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary. This will be an immersive, weekend-long gathering bringing together new and experienced forest farmers, professionals, and natural products entrepreneurs from across the region. And I will be the keynote speaker!

Participants will explore forest farming topics including growing, conserving, harvesting, and marketing a wide range of species such as mushrooms, goldenseal, and elderberry. The event will also focus on small business development, marketing, value-added strategies, and looking at agritourism as a way to diversify income and engage the public with forest-based enterprises.

Experience hands-on learning, inspiring speakers, and networking opportunities in the heart of Appalachian Ohio. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, this conference will equip you with the tools, connections, and knowledge to grow sustainably.

The agenda and speaker bios are on the Appalachian Forest Farmer Coalition site here and registration is on Eventbrite. Registration is $100 and includes the keynote presentation, 5 classroom sessions, 4 field sessions, a panel with seasoned forest farmers and agritourism professionals, 2 workshops, 1 farm tour, and 5 meals. Attendees have multiple lodging options within a 15mi radius or camp at the United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary for $10 (paid upon entry via cash, check or card). And there are scholarships available. Apply for those on this Google form.

We are looking forward to the early fall road trip to Ohio. Hope to see you there!