2026 Food & Farm Forum Registration is Open

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ASAN Food & Farm Forum

Alabama’s Premier Gathering for Sustainable Agriculture & Community

The Food & Farm Forum is ASAN’s flagship annual event—a dynamic, hands-on gathering that brings together Alabama’s most passionate farmers, food advocates, educators, and community leaders. For over a decade, this transformative weekend has served as the cornerstone of Alabama’s sustainable agriculture movement, fostering knowledge exchange, building lasting partnerships, and strengthening the networks that nourish our communities.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Camp McDowell in Nauvoo, Alabama, the Forum creates an inspiring environment where experienced growers share wisdom with newcomers, innovative techniques are demonstrated in real-world settings, and meaningful relationships are forged around shared meals.

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🌾 2026 ASAN Food & Farm Forum

January 16–18, 2026 | Camp McDowell | Nauvoo, Alabama

Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network (ASAN) invites you to join us for the 2026 Food & Farm Forum, a three-day gathering that celebrates the strength, resilience, and innovation of Alabama’s sustainable food and farming community.

Each year, the Forum brings together farmers, ranchers, educators, advocates, and community leaders from across the Southeast to share knowledge, trade skills, and build lasting connections.

Thanks to a grant from Alabama Association of RC&D Councils, registration includes access to the Forum AND all meals from Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast—featuring locally sourced ingredients whenever possible—and shared hotel-style lodging at Camp McDowell (Friday & Saturday nights).

What to Expect

The Forum offers a mix of hands-on skillshares, in-depth discussions, and community gatherings, with sessions led by farmers and practitioners sharing their real-world experience. Topics include:

  • Soil health, water management, and climate resilience
  • Livestock and rotational grazing
  • Agroforestry and perennial systems
  • Organic and sustainable production methods
  • Guidance on telling your unique story, marketing, and farm business management
  • Cooperative development, food access, and equity in our food systems

Evenings at Camp McDowell bring opportunities to connect around shared meals, storytelling, music, and celebration — plus the beloved Trading Post, where attendees exchange seeds, tools, books, crafts, and other treasures.

Lodging & Meals

Comfortable, hotel-style lodging is available onsite at Camp McDowell, with meals and shared lodging included in Forum registration.

Get Involved

  • Sponsor or Exhibit: Support Alabama’s sustainable food future and reach hundreds of engaged community members.
  • Volunteer: Help make the Forum happen — learn, connect, and lend a hand!

Send an email to [email protected] for more information!

Come ready to learn, share, and grow together; because a more just, resilient, and sustainable food system starts with all of us.

Register Here!
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This Year’s F&FF Sponsors Include

Why Attend the Food & Farm Forum?

Learn from the Best

Dive deep into sustainable agriculture practices through hands-on workshops led by Alabama’s most experienced farmers and agricultural experts. From soil health and organic certification to business planning and direct marketing, our sessions cover the full spectrum of sustainable farming knowledge.

Build Your Network

Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for sustainable food systems. Whether you’re seeking mentorship, collaboration opportunities, or simply wanting to be part of a supportive community, the Forum provides unparalleled networking opportunities in an intimate, welcoming setting.

Experience Innovation

Explore innovative practices in regenerative and organic agriculture, composting, seed saving, and more. See demonstrations of natural farming methods, orchard care, and animal husbandry techniques that can transform your operation.

Who Should Attend?

The Food & Farm Forum welcomes anyone passionate about building a more sustainable and just food system:

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Small-scale and beginning farmers seeking practical knowledge and community support
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Experienced growers looking to share expertise and learn new techniques
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Food advocates and activists working on food access and policy issues
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Educators integrating agriculture and food systems into their curricula
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Community organizers building local food networks
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Chefs and food businesses interested in local sourcing and partnerships
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Youth and families exploring agriculture and food system careers
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Anyone curious about sustainable agriculture and local food

What to Expect

Hands-On Learning

  • Workshop sessions covering everything from seed saving to business planning
  • Demonstrations of sustainable farming techniques and equipment
  • Farm tours showcasing best practices in action
  • Interactive discussions with agricultural experts

Community & Connection

  • Evening social activities and informal networking time
  • Trading post for seed swaps and resource sharing
  • Campfire sessions and storytelling opportunities

Comprehensive Programming

  • Concurrent sessions tailored to different experience levels
  • Panel discussions on current agricultural issues and trends
  • Keynote presentations from regional and national food system leaders

Beautiful Setting

  • Weekend retreat format at scenic Camp McDowell
  • On-site accommodations available for various budgets
  • Inspiring environment that fosters creativity and reflection

Our Commitment to Accessibility

ASAN believes that financial barriers should never prevent participation in building Alabama’s sustainable food future.
We offer:

Scholarship support covering registration and/or lodging costs
Sliding scale pricing to accommodate different economic situations
Childcare services during sessions to support parent participants
Diverse programming welcoming all experience levels and backgrounds
Multiple accommodation options to fit various budgets