Name: Michigan TOPP Network Partner Event: Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference 2025
Start: 2025-8-18EDT9:16AM
End: 2025-8-19EDT12:00AM

Michigan TOPP Network Partner Event: Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference 2025

August 18, 2025 - August 19, 2025

The Leelanau School, 1 Old Homestead Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636

This year, we’ll explore the topic of Incubate + Integrate. Monday will “incubate” ideas with technical and hands-on workshops tailored for farmers, while Tuesday will “integrate” by broadening the scope to explore community solutions. Throughout, we’ll also weave in a focus of farmer wellness, recognizing the importance of resilience and well-being in our work.

On Farm Workshops

Head to farms throughout the area for hands-on learning from innovative farmers. This is what the summer conference is all about. TOPP is funding organic farm tours at Lakeview Hill Farm, Green Bird Cellars, Bardenhagen Berries. On the bus ride to Lakeview Hill Farm, Sam Wallace will be discussing "Mentorship Opportunities for Organic Farmers." As part of the tour of the Glen Arbor Farmers Market, TOPP is helping to coordinate a session on "Organic Market Premiums."

Presentations

Learn from the best in a more classic conference format, with presentations, discussions, and more. Sessions supported by TOPP include:

Title: A Biological Path from Conventional to Ecological Production

Session Summary: Many find the beginning by working with fields that previously relied on conventional practices resulting in soil conditions devoid of organic matter and microbial life. By reviewing and employing techniques promoted by previous generations of seminal practitioners, we can significantly reduce the time in reconditioning soils to create living vibrant ecosystems.

This workshop will survey the work of pioneering biological farming practitioners, examining innovative concepts, techniques for improving soil conditions, and the supporting science of this approach.

Title: Ecological Pest Control

Session Summary: Ecological pest management requires an integrated holistic system for success. There is a time-lag in developing sustainable, self-supporting systems that necessitates the use of short-term control solutions in managing pest and disease pressures.

This workshop will explore the disadvantages of synthetic chemical controls, positive cultural practices, intro to Integrative Pest management technique, Organic approved pest controls, disease & weed suppression techniques, and recipes for homemade pest control products.

Roundtables

Join us for interest group roundtable discussions, where you can connect with others who share your passions and experiences in farming. Sessions supported by TOPP include an Organic Farmer Affinity Group.

Visit https://www.smallfarmconference.com/conference-details to learn more!

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