What does growing local mean to you? Hundreds are set to find out what it means to them at the 6th annual Growing Local conference, which kicks off tonight and runs through Saturday.
“Attendees can expect to get a taste of the many different ways that Manitobans are working towards healthy, fair and sustainable food for all,” says conference assistant Erica Young. “It’ll be an inspiring weekend.”
The conference features over 40 food workshops on topics such as food justice, health, DIY food skills, sustainable agriculture, and indigenous and northern issues.
Participants will also get to enjoy delicious lunches prepared with local ingredients.
The conference, held at the Marlborough Hotel, kicks off tonight (Feb. 28) at 7:30 with a screening of the documentary “To Make a Farm.” The film profiles five young people who have decided to become small scale farmers, including Wes Huyghe of Little Path Farm in Manitoba.
Having so many come together to discuss food security and celebrate the activities occurring in our province makes for a welcoming environment, Young says.
“I’m most looking forward to the sense of community that comes from having 500 people from around the province gathered to share and learn from each other. I love hearing people’s stories.”
It’s not too late to attend Growing Local! Walk up registration opens each morning at 7:30 a.m. Cost is $80 for one day, or $140 for the weekend. For more information: http://www.foodmattersmanitoba.ca.