This session will identify and discuss economic and social challenges, opportunities, and knowledge gaps for southern organic and transitioning to organic growers. The panelists will engage the audience in a discussion on social and economic barriers to starting and maintaining organic farming.

Facilitated by Kristie Wendelberger, Rodale Institute.

Sessions that are part of the OREI Track are presented in partnership with North Carolina A&T State University and Rodale Institute. This work is supported by the Organic Agriculture Research & Extension Initiative, project award no. 2024-51300-43046, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.