In Their Words: Kate Hitchcock & Mike Hitchcock

Family Farming: Generation to Generation 

OPN Connect caught up with Kate and her father Mike Hitchcock to talk about their organic farming operations at Mesa Packing, LLC. and American Farms/G&H Farms as the two generations are now working side by side.

Western Growers Named Technology Sponsor for Inaugural Organic Grower Summit

The Organic Grower Summit (OGS) has announced Western Growers will serve as the Ag Technology sponsor for this year’s inaugural event.   As the Ag Technology sponsor, Western Growers will help coordinate the attendance of technology companies as exhibitors, and help facilitate elements of the technology area at the event.

Organic Garlic: Perpetual Demand Exceeds Situation

It is a very difficult proposition to grow organic garlic, according to Bill Christopher, CEO of Christopher Ranch, Gilroy, CA.  “You get half the yield and it is twice as expensive to grow.”

In Case You Missed It: NOSB Web Conference Provides Little Clarity on Hydroponics Decision

By Melody Meyer

The National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) held a first of its kind conference call on Monday August 14^th where the crops committee discussed their draft proposals on organic production in containers, hydroponics, aquaponics and aeroponics. This full board discussion was intended to help shape what the Crops Subcommittee proposes for the NOSB meeting this fall in Jacksonville, Florida. Although no voting occurred but there was a hearty round of discussion between the board members.