ICSD Staff Present at Great Plains Growers Conference
Jessica Weber and Rachael Emig presented at the Great Plains Growers Conference
February 3, 2014 (Independence, IA) – On Thursday, January 9th, ICSD staff members; Jessica Weber and Rachael Emig, had the honor of presenting information about the Farm to School Program and the Ag Ed Program at the Great Plains Growers Conference and Tradeshow.
The Great Plains Growers Conference and Tradeshow, held at Missouri Western State University, is one of the premier fruit and vegetable conferences in the central United States. This one-day Farm to School workshop brings together growers, food service directors, and other crucial industry personnel to explore opportunities to strengthen Farm to School programs throughout the Midwest.
Weber and Emig presented information on the history of the ICSD Farm to School program, how the district attained the Agriculture Education program, and the how the future will look for the combination of the two programs.
Lorin Fahrmeier, the Farm to Institution Project Coordinator at the University of Missouri stated, “Jessica and Rachael’s enthusiasm in their work is an ideal example of how partnerships can work to create an excellent learning and nutritional environment for students. They are ideal Farm to School role models for other schools in Iowa and our Midwest region.”
Furthermore, Tammy Stotts, the Farm to School Coordinator for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship noted that, “Independence is a true example of what can be done through a teamwork approach supported by their community. Jessica Weber and Rachael Emig were invited to provide insight into their successes. Sharing their challenges, triumphs and approaches helped to raise awareness and inspire others to engage in Farm to School in their schools and communities.”
More information on The Great Plains growers Conference and Tradeshow can be found on their website, www.greatplainsgrowers.org.
If you have questions regarding the Farm to School Program or the Ag Ed Program, please contact Jessica Weber at jessicaweber@independence.k12.ia.us or Rachael Emig at remig@independence.k12.ia.us.
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