Resources

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Production Tips

Practical, farmer-tested resources to help Alabama growers improve their operations and increase profitability.
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Food Safety

A collection of documents related to the growing, safe handling and storage of food.
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Helpful information that ASAN thinks you should know.
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Events

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CRAFT

The Alabama CRAFT Network is made by farmers for farmers, focusing our programming for small farmers, landless farmers, and large-scale producers who are interested in sustainable or organic practices.
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Graze

ASAN’s signature farm-to-fork celebration showcasing collaborations between Alabama farmers and chefs. Experience amazing food, live music, and community while supporting sustainable agriculture.
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Food & Farm Forum

A yearly gathering of Alabama’s most awesome agriculture specialists and farmers, coming together to share knowledge and resources to strengthen the community as a whole.
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Upcoming Events

View ASAN’s calendar of events

Technical Assistance

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NRCS

Natural Resources Conservation Service, formerly known as the Soil Conservation Service, is an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture that provides technical assistance to farmers and other private landowners and managers.
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TOPP

TOPP is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources.

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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 and organic 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 about organic farming practices with newcomers, innovative techniques are demonstrated in real-world settings, and meaningful relationships are forged organically around shared meals.

The 2026 Food and Farm Forum was a great success. We thank our speakers and presenters for giving their time and knowledge to benefit the organic and sustainable farming community.
Materials from their presentations can be found Here

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