2017 Forum for Rural Innovation 

The purpose of the forum is to showcase new and exciting projects and programs that enhance farm or rural business profitability. The day will be filled with exhibits and panels, offering opportunities for networking and education. Hear how individual farms, businesses and universities are planning for agriculture.

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Agenda

8:15-9 a.m.
Registration, View Exhibits

9-10 a.m.
Agripreneurs: The Future of Agriculture
Matthew Byrd, Byrd’s & Bee’s Honey, Harrisville, WV
Jordon Masters, Micro Produce by Allegheny Genesis, Westover, WV
Evan Dodrill, Shady Ridge Enterprises, Asbury, WV

10-10:45 a.m.
Agriculture Law
Mark Botkin, BotkinRose Attorneys & Counselors at Law, Harrisonburg, VA

10:45-11:15 a.m.
Problems with operating on leased Land
Tyler Wegmeyer, Wegmeyer Farms, Hamilton, VA

11:15-12 p.m.
I Think I Need Marketing
Bonnie Taylor, CCS Innovations, Waterford, VA

12-12:30 p.m Innovation Awards
2017 Innovation Award Winners
Mark & Donna Butcher- Walnut Hill Creamery
Tyler Wegmeyer & Phillip Shenk- Wegmeyer Farm/Wayside Farm Fun

12:30-1:15 p.m.
Lunch and View Exhibits
Including local food products from: Allegheny Genesis, Black Dog Coffee, Blue Ridge Cattlemen’s Association, Locke Country Store, Mackintosh Fruit Farm, Mocks Green House, Orr’s Farm Market, Planet Density Foods, Shepherds Whey Creamery, Spring Gap Mountain Creamery and South Street Under.

1:15-2:15 p.m.
Marketing Demand and Challenges with Direct Marketing
Phillip Gottwals, ACDS, LLC, Columbia, MD

2:15-2:45 p.m. 
Miniature livestock Animal Craze
John Moore, Temple Hall Farm Regional Park, Leesburg, VA

2:45-3:45 p.m.
Agritourism Obstacles; “Haybales to Bridesmaids”
Don Taylor, Windy Knoll Farm, Nokesville, VA
Philip Shenk, Wayside Farm Fun, Berryville, VA

3:45-4:00 p.m. 
Closing Remarks