By Blake Jackson
Lincoln University of Missouri’s (LU) Horticulture Program recently hosted a series of regional conferences designed to provide Missouri farmers with practical, research-based information closer to their communities. This year’s events emphasized regenerative horticulture, soil health, and strategies that can help producers strengthen farm productivity and profitability.
The Southwest Farmers and Producers Conference, held Aug. 27 in Springfield, brought together 35 attendees. Area Educator of Horticulture Bleu Moore and Associate Professor of Horticulture Touria Eaton led sessions covering soil fertility management, soil health improvement, medicinal herb production and regenerative farming practices.
The conference also created opportunities for producers to exchange experiences and build connections with agricultural educators and other farmers.
“It was rewarding to watch relationships develop and to see farmers learning from and sharing experiences with one another,” Moore said. “The spirit of the conference was really bringing farmers together to learn from one another and build a stronger agricultural community in southwest Missouri.”
Jack “JJ” Spurlin, an Extension agent with LU’s Innovative Small Farmers’ Outreach Program (ISFOP) in Southwest Missouri, attended the event and said the discussions provided ideas that could benefit his work with local growers.
“I appreciated the emphasis on farmer-led research and the idea that producers can identify real problems on their farms, test practical solutions and then share what they learn with others,” Spurlin said. “That got me thinking about ways we can create more on-farm research and demonstration opportunities here in Southwest Missouri.”
Spurlin also noted that farmers can encounter barriers beyond technical challenges, including limited time, resources, and willingness to take risks when considering new approaches.
The conference series continued September 17, 2026, in Kansas City with the West Central Farmers and Producers Conference, which attracted 25 participants. Horticultural Area Educator Nathan St. Clair organized the event, which addressed challenges associated with producing crops during unpredictable weather conditions.
“Summer heat and humidity, along with periods of too much or too little rain, can affect plant health, yields, and ultimately, a farm’s profitability,” St. Clair said.
Sessions explored compost, biochar, organic soil amendments, soil microbiology, vermicomposting, composting, and no-till production of vegetables and flowers. St. Clair also discussed LU’s Horticulture Program and the resources available to Missouri producers.
“Lincoln University has educators, researchers and professors who want to see Missouri farms succeed,” St. Clair said. “This conference was an example of the knowledge, connections and practical support available to producers in our area.”
Photo Credit: lincoln-university-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education