ST. CLOUD, Minn. — Hundreds of organic farmers in Minnesota are gathering to network and learn about the latest trends in their industry.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture says the majority of organic producers in the state live in Stearns County, so St. Cloud will again host the state's organic conference Friday and Saturday.
About 650 Minnesota farmers were certified organic in 2010. Agricultural officials say the popularity of organic food has grown steadily and that's attracted more producers.
Conference coordinator Cassie Dahl tells the St. Cloud Times (http://on.sctimes.com/1xYRJgg ) some of the conference workshops will cater to new farmers hoping to break into the industry. She says established producers can learn more about pest control methods, organic food processing or tax and market planning.
