New Conference Aims to Optimize Money, Time and Farm Operations

NASHVILLE—A new conference for Tennessee farmers will be a solution for those who have limited time to explore the evolving options, issues and information they need to succeed.

The Pick TN Conference is a collaborative effort of the state’s major producer organizations and agriculture agencies and will provide farmers access to comprehensive resources for every facet of modern farm life in one event.

“We know our farmers want to diversify, and they need to be on top of current issues, technologies and marketing trends,” Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Julius Johnson said. “Whether you grow an orchard, flowers, a corn maze, wine grapes, acres of produce or manage a farmers market, you can leave the Pick TN Conference with new tools and knowledge to optimize your operation.”

The Pick TN Conference will take place Feb. 11-13, 2016 in Knoxville, Tenn. Conference sessions will cover a broad range of topics and participants can attend those that best suit the needs of their operation. The trade show will showcase technology and equipment exhibitors from all industry sectors. An Education Alley will feature representatives from educational, state and federal programs to answer questions and share information.

“There is no such thing as ‘just a farmer.’ Farmers are business executives, scientists, educators, mechanics, market analysts, publicists, conservationists and community leaders. It’s impossible to be an expert in every subject a farmer needs to master year to year, especially when there is little time available to be away from an operation,” Johnson said.

Registration and reservation details are available online at www.picktnconference.com. An early registration fee of $55 per person is available until Jan. 29, 2016. Late registration is $80. Participants will have access to conference sessions, a reception, the trade show, and lunch on Friday.

The event will be held at the Knoxville Marriott. To make hotel reservations, call 865-637-1234 and ask for the Pick TN Conference room rate.

State agriculture organizations involved in developing and hosting the conference include the Tennessee Agritourism Association, Tennessee Farm Winegrowers Alliance, Tennessee Association of Farmers Markets, Tennessee Farmland Legacy Partnership, Tennessee Flower Growers’ Association, Tennessee Fruit and Vegetable Association, Tennessee Organic Growers Association, Tennessee Department of Agriculture, and University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture.