SEATTLE, Wash. — The 47th annual Tilth Conference is ready to welcome attendees from around the Pacific Northwest, both in-person and virtually November 19-21 at the Lynnwood Convention Center. This year’s conference theme, The Innovative WA Farmer: Sharing What We’ve Learned will draw on lessons learned, and insight gained during the global pandemic.
“We have a great line-up planned of more than 25 lectures, workshops and panel discussions highlighting Washington’s innovative farmers and how they’ve adapted to a changing agricultural landscape over the past year,” said conference manager Teri Rakusin. “We’ve used this lens to shape our session tracks to bring these conversations to the forefront.” Rakusin cites several including Technological Innovations in Agriculture, Creative Partnerships for Innovative Solutions, Pathways Forward for WA Agriculture, Pursuing New Markets, and Rethinking Food Distribution. More details about the conference schedule can be found here.
Registered virtual attendees will be able to participate via YouTube Live allowing them to livestream sessions and the keynote speeches.
This year’s keynote speakers feature Thea Maria Carlson who recently joined The Agrarian Trust after leading the Biodynamic Association for nearly a decade. In addition to biodynamic and organic farming, Carlson’s diverse experience also includes urban agriculture, education, community organizing and leadership development. Also speaking is Katherine Un, Organizing and Advocacy Director with the National Young Farmers Coalition where she oversees national campaigns and grassroots organizing for holistic, structural change in agricultural systems and beyond on issues such as climate, land justice, student loan debt, government accountability and transparency, and immigration.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Tilth Conference without fun thrown into the mix. “There was a good deal of creativity and careful consideration that went into planning social events this year,” said Sheryl Wiser, Director of Outreach. “It’s been two years since we’ve been able to gather and this conference has always had a familial feel. People are genuinely happy to see one another. Every year it’s a warm point of connection for old and new friends.”
New to the social mix this year are a Seed Salon & Swap, Stories From The Farm, a “Moth” inspired story-telling event, a New Roots + Deep Shoots: Community and Farmer Mixer, photo booth, Sunday morning yoga and more.
In-person registration includes admission to educational sessions on Saturday and Sunday, keynote presentations, social events, happy hours and the banquet dinner, all meals on Saturday and Sunday, and access to the industry trade show. Tickets are offered on a sliding scale, ranging from $100-$400 with opportunities to register for Saturday (in-person only) or in-person Farm Walk on Friday. Registration details can be found here.
COVID-19 Safety Policy: All attendees agree to either show proof of vaccination or show proof of a negative COVID test received within 48 hours prior to attending the event. Masks must be worn at all times, except while actively eating, drinking, or speaking into a microphone. Learn more about our COVID-19 policy here.
Tilth Alliance, a Seattle-based organization works in community with Washington farmers, gardeners and eaters to build a sustainable, healthy and equitable food future. An advocate for food and agricultural policies that support a more sustainable food future while raising awareness of the critical relationship between food and climate change, we work collaboratively to advance organic and regenerative agriculture statewide.
Event webpage: www.tilthalliance.org/special_
Event registration: www.tilthalliance.org/special_
Event schedule: www.tilthalliance.org/special_
Event keynotes: www.tilthalliance.org/special_
— Tilth Alliance
