STORY CITY, Iowa — The Iowa Organic Association is excited to announce its 2024 Annual Meeting, set to take place on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Story City Community Center in Story City, just 45 minutes north of Des Moines, IA. This event serves as a vital gathering for Iowa’s organic community, offering opportunities for farmers, producers, consumers, and supporters of organic agriculture to connect, share insights, and shape the future of organic in the state. Event also includes a locally curated organic dinner, networking, and an opportunity to meet various exhibitors.
This year’s Annual Meeting will highlight the exciting connection between Organic and Regenerative, and will include the following presentations:
- Organic is Regenerative — Presented by Ashley Dulaney, Communications Director at Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF)
- Farmer Panel: Regenerating Soils with Organic Agriculture – Featuring panelists Caleb Akin, Jordan Clasen, Noah Wendt and more.
- Iowa Organic Association Update from the Board — Presented by Margaret Smith, Ph.D., IOA Board President
- TOPP Organic Mentorship: Year in Review — Featuring panelists Denise O’Brien, Emily Paulsen, and Gary Welsh
Ashley Dulaney, Keynote Speaker at the 2024 Annual Meeting, will be presenting the Organic Farming Research Foundation’s (OFRF) Organic is Regenerative toolkit, which bridges the gap between organic and regenerative practices. The presentation will explore how organic farming builds healthy soils, protects biodiversity, and contributes to climate resilience, moving beyond buzzwords to demonstrate the science-backed benefits of organic agriculture. Attendees will also get a quick overview of OFRF’s mission and ongoing work to support organic farmers. This presentation is designed to empower organic advocates with the tools to communicate the value of organic systems effectively, using OFRF’s comprehensive slide deck as a guide.
“We are thrilled to host our Annual Meeting in Story City this year,” says Ethan Book, Outreach and Education Coordinator. “It’s an opportunity for the organic community to come together, learn from each other, and celebrate the progress we’re making in organic agriculture across Iowa.”
Tickets and Sponsorships
Tickets to the event are $30 for IOA members and sponsors, and $50 for non-members through November 19, after which prices will go up. Space and tickets are limited, so we encourage early registration.
New this year: Gift Bag Sponsorship opportunities are available for those that wish to showcase their products and services to Iowa’s growing organic community, for just $50.
Questions?
For tickets, information or become a sponsor exhibitor for the IOA Annual Meeting, visit www.iowaorganic.org/annualmeeting
For any other inquiries, contact Kristi Kasper, Administrative Coordinator at [email protected] or 319-214-3381.
About the Iowa Organic Association
Since 2006, the Iowa Organic Association has been leading efforts across the state to advance organic agriculture and food systems by providing Iowa’s organic community with the expertise, resources and support needed to succeed in the organic industry. Our membership is a diverse community of organic stakeholders who champion organic practices and products in Iowa. For more information, visit www.iowaorganic.org.
–Iowa Organic Association