Farm and food conference at Brampton fairgrounds

Halton and Peel Federations of Agricultural are pleased to host a local Growing Your Opportunities - Farm and Food workshop as part of a series being held across the province this fall and winter.

Scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 6 at the Brampton Fairgrounds, this one-day conference will provide

farmers and related stakeholders with an opportunity to investigate emerging trends in the agriculture and food industry and explore new marketing ideas and strategies to adapt to changing agricultural and consumer markets.

Speakers and networking opportunities will provide practical approaches to help

farmers address challenges unique to their farm operation so they can make the necessary steps to move forward in today's competitive marketplace.

A panel of producers will share how they or their sector has adapted to changing markets.

"Providing producers with access to innovative

ideas and solid business planning expertise is the goal of this day-long conference" said OFA representative, Henry Swierenga whose area includes Halton Region.

Last year, eight Growing Your Opportunities - Farm and Food conferences were held across the province receiving an overall satisfaction

rating of 96% (satisfied or very satisfied). Based on this success, local committees across the province are now in the planning stages to bring this type of learning forum to their communities.

In addition to the Halton and Peel Federations of Agriculture, the Town of Caledon, Region of Halton, Greater Toronto Agriculture

and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs are partnering to host this exciting event.

The $20 registration fee includes lunch. Register by contacting Nancy Comber, Halton Region Federation of Agriculture co-ordinator at 905-878-4955. Details can be found at http://www.omafra.gov.on.