New and Small Farm Conference 2026

The 2026 New and Small Farm Conference, organized by The Ohio State Small Farm Team (Ohio State University Extension), is an annual event designed to assist new and small-scale farmers across Ohio in developing profitable and sustainable agricultural operations. Attendees can expect a comprehensive program featuring educational sessions, hands-on demonstrations, and valuable networking opportunities. The conference curriculum covers a wide range of critical topics, including sustainable production methods, effective marketing strategies, land and resource management, options for diversification, and funding opportunities for farm development. Specific breakout sessions delve into practical subjects such as bee keeping, attracting beneficial insects, toxic plant identification, integrated pest management, market preparation, utilizing perennials on a cut flower farm, fecal egg counting for small ruminants, boosting small farm sales through internet utilization, navigating farm insurance, profitable high tunnel rotations, understanding small farm taxes, and engaging with on-farm research through ePlus. The keynote speaker for the event is Michael Kilpatrick, owner of The Farm on Central and founder of Growing Farmers, who will present on "Get Your Life Back," focusing on minimizing stress, optimizing time and productivity, and implementing systems for thriving farm operations. The conference also includes a trade show with vendors and is supported by various sponsors.