2018 NPSAS Winter Conference
January 25-27, 2018
Keynote Speakers
Blake & Blaine Hitzfield
Seven Sons Farms
Roanoke, Indiana
www.sevensons.net
Seven Sons Family Farms was established in 2000 by Lee and Beth Hitzfield and their seven sons. Their mission is simple; to produce nutrient-dense foods that heal and nourish our land and those who eat of its bounty.
Beginning in the ‘80s thru the early ‘90s they operated a conventional row crop and confinement hog operation producing pork for IBP and later Tyson Foods. As a result of a family health matter, they became aware of the problems that plague the conventional food system and how it is affecting the wellbeing of consumers. Through their personal life experiences they have come to the belief that how they manage their soil, plants and animals will directly affect the physical and mental health of those who consume the products of their farming choices.
Dr. Jonathan Lundgren
Blue Dasher Farm www.bluedasher.farm
Estelline, SD
Dr. Jonathan Lundgren is an award-winning scientist in the fields of agroecology and risk assessment, and has strong ties with the scientific community, policy makers and regulators, and numerous farmers, ranchers and beekeepers from around the world. Jenna Lundgren has played a strong role in improving community in Brookings, S.D. Her tireless work in youth mentorship, fitness promotion, and small business development and support have given her the tools to achieve the lofty goals set forward for the farm. They stand up for what they believe is right and have made Blue Dasher a flag around which supporters of ecologically-based agriculture will rally.
Pre-Conference Workshops
Net $4k/acre With Stacked Enterprises & Direct Marketing
by Blake & Blaine Hitzfield (Seven Sons Farms)
Brothers Blake and Blaine Hitzfield of Seven Sons will share the ins and outs of what they’ve learned over the past 15 years of operating a pasture-based livestock and direct marketing operation. Seven Sons raises grassfed beef, free-range pork and eggs on their 500-acre farm in Roanoke, IN. In this workshop you will learn how Seven Sons has built scaleable production models that generate profits to support over 10 full-time family members and staff. You will also learn how Seven Sons used the latest in internet marketing strategies to direct market their products to over 5,000 customers in the midwest. This workshop will be sure to leave you better equipped and inspired to take your farm to new levels.
Building Back Our Landscape
by Jay Fuhrer
What is a soil?
Soil Function/Demonstrations
Carbon Cycle
Principles of Soil Health
Cropping Systems
Grazing Systems
Cover Crops
Gardening (High Tunnel & Outdoor)Jay Fuhrer is a Soil Health Specialist employed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Bismarck, North Dakota. He has boots on the ground the last 38 years working with cropping systems, grazing systems, cover crops, and gardens. Jay also has an extensive background working with groups and entities, such as; soil and water conservation districts, national and international no-till organizations, watersheds, farm organizations, urban groups, and more. Recently, Jay spends his time at the Menoken Farm minimizing soil disturbance, adding soil armor, maximizing plant diversity, maintaining living roots in the soil, and integrating livestock.
Farmilies – Supporting Farm Women & Families
by Annie Carlson, Jill Jerde, Courtney Luhmann and Darcee Weber
Farm women face unique challenges: managing home, business, marriage, family…all at the same time. It can be wonderful and awful, and often on the same day. Join experienced farm women as they share their tips and tricks and their joys and struggles. We will offer practical ways to help you feel more connected, confident, and calm as we grow and share together. Come early to Winter Conference and relax for an afternoon with friends and fellow farm women! Kids are certainly welcome, husbands optional.