SMALL FARMS CONFERENCE NOT SO SMALL

Wednesday, 19 August 2009 10:21

Over 800 Florida farmers and professionals participated in the 1st Annual Florida Small Farms Conference, which was held on August 1st and 2nd at Osceola Heritage Park’s Exhibition Building in Kissimmee.

The 1st annual Small Farms Conference hosted by University of Florida (UF) Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS)/ Florida A & M University (FAMU) – College of Engineering Sciences Technology and Agriculture (CESTA) included; 30 educational sessions, and over 75 educational and industry exhibitors.  A guest appearance by Charles Bronson, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture, expressed his interest of innovation of farm production within the Agricultural System and the vast alternative choices we have in contrast to foreign oil.  The two day seminar included 100 industry speakers who discussed educational topics such as alternative energy, food policy regulations, livestock, business, marketing, organic and sustainable farming and horticulture.

SMG’s SAVOR Osceola was recognized for their culinary efforts as the team prepared delicious meals each day of the conference that allowed the attendees to taste a wide selection of different foods such as; milk, yogurt, free range chicken, goat, lamb, pastured pork, rabbit, and grass fed beef.  Brian Eggers, Director of Food & Beverage, spoke with the local farmers about SAVOR Osceola and the commitment that we share to bring Farm-to-Table Freshness to our operation.  SAVOR Osceola Catering by SMG looks forward to continuing the partnerships with the local farmers to supply Farm-to-Table produce at Osceola Heritage Park.

“The first ever Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference was a ground breaking event.  This conference surpassed our highest expectations and attendees made it very clear that they want this event to become an annual event.  We were truly impressed with SAVOR Osceola Catering by SMG; they were very accommodating and motivated to make this event a success,” said Bob Hochmuth, Multicounty Extension Agent with the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.