By Blake Jackson
The Agroforestry Symposium: Growing Opportunities in Emerging Tree Crop Industries will bring together farmers, researchers, and industry professionals to support market development for perennial specialty crops across the United States.
The event will spotlight chestnut, pecan, hazelnut, black walnut, and elderberry, with panelists examining market trends and strategies for moving these high-value crops from farm to retail.
“The Center for Agroforestry has worked with industry partners for three decades to build the scaffolding for a robust tree crop industry in the Eastern half of the United States,” said Director Ron Revord. “In recent years, we’ve seen strong market pull for these crops that hold great potential for contributing to the success of family farms across our region.”
The free, annual symposium is hosted by the Center for Agroforestry and will be held in person at the State Historical Society of Missouri in downtown Columbia, with a livestream available via Zoom for remote attendees.
The program runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, and the full schedule and speaker information are available on the Center’s website. Lunch will be provided for in-person participants, and all attendees must register in advance.
On Wednesday, Jan. 14, the Center will host a workshop for growers, natural resource professionals, and entrepreneurs focused on tree crop management and agroforestry integration. Small-group sessions allow participants to ask questions of industry experts, with a $10 registration fee.
For registration, visit https://missouri.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_01a7OtwHtiUv8CG
Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Education