07/22/2026
Congratulations to OGRAIN —Organic Grain Resource and Information Network— for 10 years of service to farmers interested in growing organic grains!
Directed by Dr. Erin Silva, Professor of Organic and Sustainable Cropping Systems, OGRAIN arose, in part, from observing a gap between the research the lab was conducting and the farmers it should serve: organic farmers needed a specific support system, and their own network.
OGRAIN focuses on peer-to-peer learning and co-creation of local knowledge, and welcomes farmers with any level of experience or interest in organic production. Their annual Winter Conference in January features networking and two days of sessions, which are typically recorded and available for viewing.
“While our work is often focused on supporting organic farmers with successful production practices, we are well aware that finding markets is also a critical piece for farmers,” says Outreach Specialist Kelly Debbink, noting that AGC's work connecting grain chain end-users is vital in helping farmers thrive. “Plus, it’s pretty satisfying to see, eat, and drink these grains in local products!”
OGRAIN hosts and supports multiple field days each season, including an organic research field day every August at their Arlington, WI research station, showcasing work related to organic grain production that includes breeders, soil scientists, plant pathologists, and agronomists.
On July 24th they’ll be in Paxton, IL at AGC members Cow Creek Organic Farm and Silver Tree Spirits for Seed to Spirit, a unique farmer-distiller field day event. (Spots are still available—check it out at https://ograin.cals.wisc.edu/july-24th-2026-field-day/)
Learn more about OGRAIN from their member feature at https://www.graincollaborative.com/notes-from-the-grainshed/member-feature-ograin
Photos by Troy Yilmaz (1-2, 8-9), Keegan Gering (3), Chas Conway (5-7)
