USA
August 30, 2017

There is a critical need to improve soil health in all agricultural systems. At this year’s meeting of the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, OFRF’s Research Program Director, Dr. Diana Jerkins will be holding a Special Session Symposium on Organic Agriculture Soil Health Research to discuss best practices for building healthy soils. OFRF also secured presenters for several soil health focused sessions throughout the conference.
 
More than 4,000 scientists, professionals, educators, and students are scheduled to attend this annual meeting, which is being held October 22-25, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. It’s an important opportunity to hear the latest research, meet and learn from peers, and take advantage of networking opportunities.

In the Special Session Symposium, Organic Agriculture Soil Health Research, Jerkins is bringing together researchers, extension, farmers and other organic agriculture stakeholders to provide current information on applicable research results. Nine issues have been identified—ranging from the effects of cover crops, compost, and rotation—to the influence of soil management practices on economic returns and best ways to disseminate information to producers. The discussion is applicable to both organic and conventional production systems to improve sustainability and profit. The presentation takes place on Wednesday, October 25, 2017: 9:30 AM-11:35 AM. You can view the presenters and topics here. This Special Session is being presented in conjunction with co-sponsors Organic Management Systems Community and Soil Health Community, and co-project leaders, Danielle Treadwell, University of Florida and Marty Mesh, Florida Organic Growers. 
 
Also on Wednesday, OFRF Policy Associate, Michael Stein will be participating in the American Society of Agronomy’s National and International Policy and Incentives for Soil Health Oral Session. Michael will be discussing the need to increase public support for organic agricultural research in the upcoming Farm Bill. You can view the presenters and topics here.
 
Additional Sessions:
Tuesday 10/24
Soil Health for Agroecosystems Oral Session, 1:30-4:30. Details
General Organic Management Systems Oral I, 9:25-11:45. Details
Soil Health for Agroecosystems Poster Session, 4:00-6:00. Details
 
Wednesday 10/25
General Organic Management Systems Oral II, 1:30-4:05. Details
Influence of Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Soybean and on Soil Quality, 2:05. Details
 
Early Bird registration fees end September 7th. Register now.
 
Presentations and proceedings from OFRF sessions will be available on the OFRF website.

OFRF would like to thank USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI) program and the Soil Health Institute for their support.

Website: http://www.ofrf.org

Published: August 30, 2017