By Blake Jackson
The 15th Annual Organic Association of Kentucky (OAK) Conference will be held on January 30-31, 2026, at Kentucky State University’s Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm, located at 1525 Mills Lane in Frankfort, Kentucky.
This two-day event will bring together farmers, agricultural professionals, and food system advocates to learn, connect, and collaborate on advancing organic agriculture across the state.
The conference program will feature an engaging lineup of local and regional speakers, interactive workshops, panels, demonstrations, and keynote sessions. Participants will explore practical strategies for organic production, farm management, conservation, and community resilience.
Attendees will also gain access to trade show exhibits, networking opportunities, and valuable resources designed to support sustainable farming practices.
This year’s event will spotlight Emily Oakley, co-owner of Three Springs Farm, a certified organic vegetable farm in eastern Oklahoma. Oakley, who served as an Organic Producer Representative on the USDA’s National Organic Standards Board from 2016 to 2021, will join a panel of women farmers to discuss their leadership and contributions to agriculture.
The session coincides with the United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Women Farmer. Oakley will also present a workshop on her farm’s innovative cover cropping system, which replaces off-farm inputs with farm-grown fertility to improve soil health and sustainability.
OAK remains committed to making the conference affordable and accessible for all participants. Early-bird registration discounts are available through December 15, 2025, with reduced rates for OAK members and students.
Members receive exclusive benefits, including discounted registration for Family Farm members, while scholarships are also available to ensure inclusivity.
Conference registration includes a locally sourced lunch, and attendees are encouraged to share accessibility needs in advance. While walk-in registration may be available, advance sign-up is recommended due to limited space.
Details on nearby accommodations and travel directions are available on OAK’s website, and inquiries can be directed to conference@oak-ky.org.
Through collaboration, education, and community engagement, the 15th Annual OAK Conference continues to empower Kentucky’s farmers and advocates to strengthen organic agriculture and build a more sustainable food system for the future.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Government & Policy