Farmers will have a chance to network with local restaurants interesting in serving what they grow at a Farm to Fork Forum next month in Jefferson.
The event is being put together by the Mohawk Valley Economic Development District in partnership with Visit Schoharie County, the Office for Agricultural Development of Schoharie County, Montgomery County Agricultural Development, and the New York State Restaurant Association.
It will kick off a series of agribusiness panels organized under the Mohawk Valley Farm and Agribusiness Network, a new initiative aimed at strengthening the region's agricultural sector.
The forum will run from 1-4pm on March 6 at the Mill Pond Inn & Tavern.
Registration is free and ends February 28.
Register through MVFAN’s website at mvfoodaction.org/home.
Forum highlights will include an expert panel and discussion focusing on the challenges and opportunities facing farmers and restaurateurs.
Those attending will hear first hand from panelists selling and buying products direct from farms.
The discussion panel will feature a question and answer session.
There will also be networking opportunities and a chance to connect with local farmers’ markets, state, and county agribusiness groups, and others in the agricultural sector.
“With our close proximity to many urban areas, restaurants represent a tremendous potential market for our agricultural producers,” said Nick Kossmann, county ag specialist.
“Similarly, the region’s strong agricultural sector provides opportunities for restaurants to source high quality local products for their menus.”
“The Mohawk Valley’s agricultural sector is poised for significant growth,” added Heather Devitt of MVEDD.
“Through MVFAN, we aim to connect agribusinesses to funding and programs that will create a more vibrant and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.”