Small Farm Conference Agenda

Download a PDF of the 2009 conference agenda.

Better Process Control School

Yet another learning opportunity for small farmers will be available in conjunction with the 2009 W.Va. Small Farm Conference -  A Better Process Control School (BPCS) will be conducted by the W.Va. Department of Agriculture Thursday, February 25 and Friday, February 26.

Last month, we wrote in The W.Va. Small Farm Advocate of the largely untapped pathway by our state's small farmers to direct market their own commercially preserved foods. One barrier has been that acidified foods training is required before one can consider taking this step. The good news is that now the training is being offered close to home and soon.

Instead of having to go to out of state, farmers can attend a BPCS in Morgantown in February. The 25 to 30 individuals expected will begin their instruction 8 AM the morning of the last day of the WV Small Farm Conference at the Ramada Inn and continue for another full day past the end of the conference. Training will be provided in every area associated with the safe way to preserve food including how to document that proper procedures were followed. Class topics include microbiology basics, thermal processing, acidified foods, facility sanitation, and container closures.

The W.Va. Small Farm Center wants to see more individuals trained to preserve food so they will be able to market their own canned products. We are hoping that trained farmers will help their neighbors preserve their food. Of course, this type of preservation requires an approved kitchen and before someone can preserve their food they must first meet Health Department inspection. But all of that will be explained during the BPCS. If you are interested in attending, please let us know so we can  pass along your name to the W.Va. Dept. of Agriculture.

 Thank you! Travel safe and have a great season!