Great Plains Vegetable Growers Conference
Jan. 8th, 9th & 10th, 2009
By MVGA Board Members

St. Joseph is at it again, for the 16th year! What's new? The location and, similar to the 'Back to the Future theme', the conference is returning to its roots- to Missouri Western State University's 'Fulkerson Conference Center'. The conference center was expanded some years ago, so it will offer us more room and other amenities, but the main reason for the move was the Ramada adding an indoor water park- right where we had our trade show! Revenue from trade shows is vital in supporting conferences, not to mention all the networking possibilities for attendees as well. The Fulkerson Conference Center does not have lodging. Our 'headquarter hotel' will still be the Ramada Inn. To better serve you, we have included the program for the conference and preceding high tunnel workshop. The registration form and introductory letter are not included since many MVGA members have been at the conference before, thus will be mailed the conference packet directly. If you need a registration form contact Buchanan County Extension Center directly. Everything is ready.

Please take a moment to review the program. The CSA mini school has returned to accompany the High Tunnel Workshop on Thursday. A new feature was added to that day, a late afternoon snack and refreshment event in the trade show area to stimulate networking. A few other 'firsts' include a honey bee session on Friday and, all on Saturday, a farmer's market tract (all day), a farm business session (morning), & a farm energy session (afternoon). Lastly, Buchanan County Extension does a great job organizing the conference every year. We all appreciate their efforts!

Buchanan County Extension
4125 Mitchell Avenue
St. Joseph, MO 64507
(816) 279-1691
fowlert@missouri.edu

Don't forget! MVGA has its annual meeting late Friday afternoon at this conference.