Every winter, ‘long about the third week in January, when the “hoes are down” and farmers can catch a breath before the bustle of spring, the Ecological Farming Association hosts its annual conference, fondly known as “EcoFarm.” It takes place on the beautiful Asilomar grounds (designed by Julia Morgan in the 1920s) in Pacific Grove, near Monterey. I have attended the EcoFarm conference for the past eight years, and it has played a valuable role in my formation as a farmer.

EcoFarm is truly a gathering of visionaries. For over 20 years, it has been a place where stewards of the land (in the widest sense) gather to share their visions, hopes and dreams for a saner approach to agriculture than has become the norm in our society. “Ecological farming” fosters agriculture which respects and works within the limits of ecological necessity. Balance and health are only found within the landscape when all communities involved are working in cooperation, rather than competition. The needs and unique contributions of all forms of life (mineral, vegetal, microbial, animal and human) are best engaged when they support one another. A wise farmer always seeks to harmonize them so that conditions of excess (such as pollution) or depletion are avoided. In recent years, for instance, much worlds. If their needs are neglected (by poor soil management or lack of sound composting practices), we all pay the price of a devitalized agro-ecology.

Identifying problems and obstacles that keep us from our vision is one thing. Offering solutions is another, and it is precisely in the technical, “how to” wisdom presented at EcoFarm that I have found the greatest support (and inspiration). EcoFarm offers practical tools to farmers in an incredible array of seminars on topics as diverse as “organic weed control,” “biorational pest control,” “growing your own beneficial microorganisms,” “pollination with native bees,” “biofilters for wastewater management,” “alternative animal care” and “wildlife-friendly farming.” Experts from many fields (and most importantly, experts from the field!) share their insights and experience with inspired farmers (young and old) who are eager to learn “new tricks.” One thing I have noticed over the past few years is that more and more “conventional” growers are showing up at EcoFarm for information on how to improve their operations and become more responsive land stewards. New friendships are being formed, and that’s exciting.

Beyond cutting-edge tools for agroecosystem management, EcoFarm provides ample opportunity to look beyond the field” to the wider landscape: economic, political and social. Unique marketing strategies to help farmers stay viable, updates on political campaigns, tools for community building and the education of youth, labor concerns, land use issues, urban agriculture and traditional wisdom from indigenous culture are among the many “wider” issues addressed to strengthen and improve agriculture’s connection to the world at large.

Finally, EcoFarm is one heck of a good time! Great food, scenery, mixers, music and company all add a refreshing touch to the abundance of information shared. And everyone is invited to attend (not just farmers). Hope to see you there next year!