Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Events TOGA! Tennessee Organic Growers' Association Convenes This Weekend
Posted by Dana Kopp Franklin on Wed, Mar 21, 2012 at 5:58 AM
- What's Organic About Organic? on Facebook
Friday kicks off with an all-day tour of a fascinating organic operation, Foggy Hollow Farm in Cheatham County, which features an award-winning sustainable farmhouse, the only new residence in Middle Tennessee to earn LEED platinum certification as a green building.
On Friday evening at 6:30, there’s a screening of What's Organic About Organic? at the Nashville Farmers’ Market. The documentary follows the struggles and passion of folks who try to farm responsibly and is an urgent call for developing meaningful standards for organic agriculture.
Director Shelley Rogers, a Tennessee native, will join a panel discussion afterward, along with some local farmers; the film’s co-producer, Marty Mesh of the organic certification program Quality Certification Service; and Michael Martin of Whole Foods in Franklin. The screening is open to the public. (A $10 ticket includes an appetizer spread and the discussion.)
Saturday brings a full day of workshops, including Jeremy Barlow of Tayst holding forth on the topic “Chefs Can Change the World” (also the title of his new book). At midday there’s a keynote address from Michael Ableman, a prominent urban farmer, activist, photographer and author (Good Land, Fields of Plenty and From the Good Earth). The workshops will be held at Lakeshore Christian Church in Antioch.
Levels of conference registration range from $35 to $85. Go here for more information and to reserve a spot.
