From micro to macro: Organic Conference keynoters cover the spectrum

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) announces its selections for the January 2016 Minnesota Organic Conference keynote speakers. Both are highly regarded as thought-provoking speakers who challenge the status quo. Friday’s keynote presenter is Pam Marrone, "The Awesome Power of Biology and Microbes". On Saturday, Richard A. Levins will present "The Real Natural: Why the Future of US Agriculture Should be Organic".

Pam Marrone

Pam Marrone is the founder and CEO of Marrone Bio Innovations, which works to find natural product solutions for unmet weed and pest management needs. In 2014, the international publication Agrow named her “Best Manager with Strategic Vision” for her career of leadership in biopesticides. “Growers need effective, sustainable pest management solutions that are safe for people and protect our natural resources,” Marrone said about her presentation.

Richard Levins

Dr. Levins is Professor Emeritus of Applied Economics at the University of Minnesota. He’s an award-winning author of books about how policy and market power affect the food system and the general economy. His 30 year academic career focused on advising businesses and teaching economic principles, with special emphasis on sustainable agriculture, collective bargaining by farmers, community level effects of ag businesses, and public policy around agriculture.

The Minnesota Organic Conference is January 8-9, 2016 at the River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Explore educational sessions, preview the tradeshow, and download registration information at http://www.mda.state.mn.us/moc. Registration for the conference is now open. Remember to follow the conference at #MNOrganic16.