MONTEREY, CA - Over the past month, Western Growers and the Organic Produce Network (OPN) have been building anticipation for the 2021 Organic Grower Summit (OGS) by releasing information about education sessions taking place. However, the moment has finally arrived for the associations have announced the keynote presentation for the event, “Next Gen: A Conversation with the Next Generation of Organic Leaders,” and confirmed panelists.

“As the future of the organic fresh produce industry rests with the next generation of growers and producers, they will face a wide array of opportunities and obstacles,” said Tonya Antle, Co-Founder of OPN. While the sales and consumption of organic fresh produce items continues to grow, challenges from labor, water, regulations, and other hot button issues await these new leaders. It is important we hear their viewpoints and perspectives as it relates to the future of organic production and growth of our industry.”

Taking place at the 2021 OGS show, the keynote presentation will be moderated by Dave Puglia, President and CEO of Western Growers. According to a press release, the panelists for the in-depth discussion will include Keith Barnard, Senior Vice president of Sales and Sourcing, Mission Produce; Bianca Kaprielian, CEO and Co-Owner, Fruit World; and Mike Valpredo, President and Co-Founder, Country Sweet Produce.

The discussion will feature candid commentary on the organic fresh landscape of today, the issues that organic fresh producers must address, and what the future of the multi-billion-dollar sector may look like.

This thought-provoking presentation will bolster the overarching purpose behind OGS, which is to provide an overview of the opportunities and challenges in the production of organic fresh food. The newly announced keynote presentation is a piece of an extensive educational program created to inform and engage organic producers, service providers, and supply chain partners.

"In partnership with Western Growers, this year’s OGS will provide up-to-date resources and information to support the continued success of organic producers, with an emphasis on the role of ag technology," added Antle. "From seed to soil to harvest, our goal is to present the most relevant information on the most important subjects and issues facing organic production."

The summit will be held December 1–2 at the Monterey Hyatt Conference Center in Monterey, California, and exhibition and general registration is currently open.

Only two booths remain available before the OGS trade show floor sells out, with exhibitors including companies dealing in soil amendments, ag technology, food safety, packaging, and equipment connecting with organic field production staff, supply chain managers, pest control advisors, and food safety experts.

Don’t risk missing out on this informational opportunity and register by clicking here.

As the summit approaches, AndNowUKnow will continue to bring you updates.

Organic Grower Summit