PITTSBORO, N.C. — With only a few months before our hallmark event, I have some updates on the 2021 Sustainable Agriculture Conference.
First and foremost, it’s still happening!
A few months ago, the forecast looked as though holding our 36th conference in person was a viable option. Our hopes were high to break bread and learn alongside one another in downtown Durham. Today things look different. Due to the surge of the Delta variant of COVID-19, the ongoing emergence of possibly more virulent and vaccine-resistant strains, and the uncertainty of whether large gatherings will be allowed this fall, we must prioritize the health of our staff, their families, conference attendees, and those who are not or cannot get vaccinated. Holding a large, indoor event is no longer a viable option.
Fortunately, there are still many ways to bring our community together in a safe, accessible way.
While there will be more to share in the coming weeks, we’re now planning two formats for the 2021 conference. First, we’ll host a virtual conference experience from November 5-14. Second, we’ll host outdoor, hands-on on-farm intensives on November 15 in various locations, in accordance with all applicable public health guidelines.
The good news is that we’ve done this before! In 2020, CFSA was one of the first sustainable agriculture organizations to lead an entirely virtual conference. Over five days, we held more than 70 sessions led by 142 speakers. The energy was incredible! We learned a lot and are listening to the feedback from the 700+ attendees as we proceed in going virtual again.
Whatever the format, we’re committed to bringing people together as a community. We want to provide a space for growers, advocates, and educators alike to share knowledge, hone skills, and discuss climate change, racial equity, food access, and so much more.
The Carolinas’ local and organic food and farming community has proven its resilience and adaptability throughout this pandemic. We are excited to bring that community together again at this year’s Sustainable Agriculture Conference. Stay tuned for more details, and please make plans to join us!
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–Carolina Farm Stewardship Association