Lexington Gears Up for the 2024 Kentucky Fruit and Vegetable Conference

Lexington, Kentucky, Prepares for Annual Fruit and Vegetable Conference

Lexington is set to host the _Kentucky Fruit and Vegetable Conference_ on January 6-7, 2024, at the Marriott Griffin Gate Resort. This year’s event promises to be a significant gathering for local produce and specialty crop growers. Pre-conference activities will kick off on January 5, allowing participants to get a head start on the educational opportunities available.

Key Details of the Event

The conference is a collaborative effort by the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, Kentucky State University (KSU), and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA). These organizations aim to provide insights and training relevant to producers and marketers in the industry. This premier event is designed to facilitate interaction among growers, offering them valuable training on production methods and marketing strategies.

Featured Speakers and Topics

Attendees can expect to hear from over _80 speakers_, addressing topics that range from general interest to specialized production methods. The session lineup includes areas like vegetable production and organic farming techniques, along with business management skills crucial for enhancing profitability. Specialized tracks will also be available, including focused discussions on urban and small-scale farming, which may attract diverse participants interested in these growing sectors.

Interactive Learning Opportunities

The conference will also feature a vibrant trade show, showcasing over _70 exhibitors_. Here, attendees can explore various products and services tailored for the agricultural scene. Participants can look forward to engaging in sessions such as a cut flower short course and a roundtable aimed at addressing the pressing issues facing urban farmers. Additionally, the event will host a _Farmers Market Short Course_, a workshop focused on writing food safety plans, and a session on bringing farm products to schools—all organized by different agricultural organizations in the state.

Valuable Feedback Shapes the Event

The planning team takes feedback from previous conferences seriously. Rachel Rudolph, a vegetable specialist from the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension, noted that they strive to improve the event each year. She mentioned, “It’s good to have variety, so there is something of interest for everyone,” highlighting the importance of diverse topics such as pest management and grower panel discussions. This year, participants can look forward to presentations from local and out-of-state experts, including representatives from the National Ag Law Center and various universities.

Registration Information

Those interested in attending can register online before December 13 for _$80_, with prices rising to _$100_ after that date. The registration process is available through TicketSpice on the event’s website, providing a straightforward means for attendees to sign up for what promises to be an informative and beneficial two-day gathering.

The Kentucky Fruit and Vegetable Conference not only serves as a platform for education but also fosters community and collaboration among producers, ensuring that Kentucky’s agriculture continues to thrive in a competitive market. As the event approaches, the anticipation builds among growers eager to learn, share, and connect with their peers.