The 31st annual Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association conference will be held Jan. 28-29 in Ankeny, Iowa. The conference will include a trade show, presentations by industry leaders and roundtable discussions designed to educate growers on a wide variety of topics. Even if you are not a member but are interested in growing fruits and vegetables in Iowa, you are certainly welcome to attend.

PLAN TO ATTEND: Why attend the 2016 Iowa Fruit

“This event will provide a great opportunity for growers to learn about a wide variety of topics, including updates to the Food Safety Modernization Act, cider production and aquaponics,” says Joseph Hannan, horticulture field specialist with Iowa State University Extension. “The insurance panel offered on Jan. 28 gives farmers a chance to hear from six different specialists who will provide updated crop insurance information.”

Agriculture risk management and insurance explained
The conference will feature a pair of keynote speakers, including one who will provide additional insurance information. Ryan Albers, ag underwriting governance director at Farm Bureau Financial Services, kicks off the event on Thursday with information about agriculture risk management and insurance and how it affects farm business.

Tim Vala from Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, an agritourism operation in Gretna, Neb., will be Friday’s keynote speaker. Vala will share his story of turning his farm into a premier tourist destination that hosts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Local success stories also will be highlighted, with Harvestville Farm in Donnellson and Pheasant Run Farm in Van Horne being featured during the afternoon sessions on Jan. 29.

Trade show will have 30 exhibitors with latest equipment
A trade show will include more than 30 exhibitors, showcasing the latest seeds, supplies, high tunnel, irrigation equipment and grower information. The conference will be held at the FFA Enrichment Center on the DMACC Campus, 1055 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny, Iowa. A registration form can be accessed at ifvga.org.