The Farm to School Roadshow is an opportunity to make new connections and learn how to build successful Farm to School relationships. These in-person events will bring together Minnesota school nutrition professionals, early care providers, producers and farmers for networking and training opportunities.
The Roadshow is a full day event with options to attend the full day or half day.
Growing for Wholesale - Vegetable Production and Planning (9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.) - Vegetable Farmer Focused
The morning session will take an in-depth look at vegetable crop planning and management for production to the wholesale market, specifically schools. We will deep dive into topics such as crop planning, pest management, and safe harvest and storage with UMN Extension Educators. Growers will leave the morning with customizable crop plans for common crops schools are buying and the most up to date research related to growing healthy, abundant crops.
Business of Farm to School and Farmer/ Buyer Networking (1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.) - All Farmers/ Producers and Schools/ Early Care Providers Welcome
The afternoon session is open to all local sellers (farmers, producers, makers) and buyers (schools, early care centers and providers) who are interested in expanding their local purchasing power and reach. This session will include a training titled “The Business of Farm to School- From Planning in the Fields to Serving on the Tray, and Everything in Between” and a networking activity where buyers and sellers will have an opportunity to meet and explore potential business partnerships.
Bring your business cards!
Dates and Locations for in-person events:
February 13th - Cloquet Public Library (Cloquet)
February 18th - The Minnesota Department of Education (Minneapolis)
February 26th - Aune Hall at Graham Park (Rochester)
February 28th - New Ulm Civic Center (New Ulm)