Sustainable food systems for healthy living and New York State’s organic food production will be discussed at the 13th annual “World On Your Plate” conference planned for Oct. 7 and 8 in Daemen College’s Wick Campus Center.
“The conference will feature experts who will explore the importance of creating a healthier, safer and more sustainable food system, and changes that can have a positive impact on the future of our food production,” said Dr. Brenda Young, chair of Daemen’s Global and Local Sustainability Program.
The 2016 conference, “From Seeds to Solutions,” will include a panel discussion on Friday on organic food production with facilitator Tom Szulist of Singer Farms Naturals. Panelists will include Tim Bartlett, manager of Lexington Cooperative Market; Jim Bittner, owner of Bittner-Singer Farms; Bridget O’Brien-Wood, director of food service for Buffalo Public Schools; and Erwin Rakoczy, a member of the Clarence Farmer’s Market Board.
Petra Page-Mann
The evening schedule will wrap up with a roundtable discussion on the New York Organic Action Plan led by Elizabeth Henderson and Liana Hoodes of the Northeast Organic Farmers Association.
On Saturday, “Resilient Seeds in a Changing Climate” will be discussed by morning keynote speaker Petra Page-Mann of Fruition Seeds Organic Seed Co., who will address the importance of saving seeds and revitalizing the regional food supply.
Afternoon keynote speaker Frances Moore Lappe, author of 18 books on world hunger, living democracy and the environment, will discuss “The Solution is On Your Plate.” She will examine the social and environmental impact from the foods we choose and ways to reduce food waste and enhance sustainability.
Frances Moore Lappe
The conference will also feature workshops on a range of topics, including plant-based nutrition for disease prevention, sustainable landscaping, importance of public transportation for healthy food access, and climate and food security. Information from local vendors, live entertainment, and other activities are planned.
Advance tickets for the two-day conference are $30 or $35 at the door. Friday only tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Area students may attend for free by pre-registering and with appropriate school identification.
For advance tickets and additional information, visit www.worldonyourplate.org or contact Eveline Hartz ateveline.hartz@gmail.com.