MONTEREY, CA - Having attended the Organic Grower Summit (OGS) last year, I can confirm that the keynote presentation was one of the most memorable aspects of the show. That is why I was especially excited to learn that the second of two keynote presentations has been announced for this year's event, which is presented by Western Growers and Organic Produce Network (OPN). Leadership from three of the nation's most progressive organic growing operations have been confirmed as panelists.

"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 changing organic production landscape as well as the role of ag technology," said Matt Seeley, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of OPN. "From seed to soil to harvest, our goal is to present the most relevant and timely information on the most important subjects and issues facing organic production."

Dubbed Grower Roundtable: The State of Organic Growing, the keynote will feature panelists Joe Pezzini, Senior Director of Ag Operations for Taylor Farms; Nishan Moutafian, Vice President of Production for Driscoll's; and Briana Giampaoli, Organic Category Manager for Live Oak Farms. It will be moderated by Walt Duflock, Senior Vice President of Innovation for Western Growers. The keynote will explore how these organic leaders are dealing with hot-button topics including supply chain issues, inflation, labor, sustainability, new innovations, and technologies.

According to a press release, the newly announced keynote presentation is part of an extensive educational program designed to inform and engage organic producers, their service providers, and supply chain partners.

"While consumption of organic fresh produce continues to climb, domestic growers face an unprecedented array of regulatory and marketplace challenges that threaten future growth," Duflock said. "The leaders on this panel will share valuable insight into the state of the organic industry and strategies for turning obstacles into opportunities."

In the other keynote presentation, the annual Grower of the Year award will be given to this year's recipient, Rod Braga, President and CEO of Braga Fresh.

As we get closer to the event, being held November 29–30 in Monterey, California, keep coming back to ANUK for more event coverage.

Organic Grower Summit