Keynote Presentations

Transforming the Heart of Agriculture

Thursday, November 15, 5:00 - 6:30 pm

Biodynamics is transforming the heart of agriculture on every continent and in every climate. Ueli Hurter will bring highlights of biodynamic initiatives from around the world, and Narendra Varma will ground us in Portland by sharing the agricultural, social, and economic transformation happening at Our Table Cooperative. Moderated by Daphne Amory.

Ueli Hurter

Co-Head of the Agriculture Section at the Goetheanum and Executive Board Member of the International Biodynamic Association

Neuchâtel, Switzerland

Narendra Varma

Founder and Executive Director of Our Table Cooperative

Portland, Oregon

Biodynamics in Practice: Stories of Regeneration

Friday, November 16, 8:30 - 10:30 am

Biodynamics is a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to farming that brings renewed health and vitality to soil, plants, animals, and people. With vibrant visuals and specific examples, three biodynamic farmers will share stories of how they are incorporating regenerative principles and practices to create biodiverse and self-sustaining farm individualities. Moderated by Beth Hoinacki.

Nadine Basile

Ranch Manager and Viticulturalist at Soter Vineyards and MSR Ranch

Carlton, Oregon

Anna Jones-Crabtree

Owner, Farmer, and Executive Director at Vilicus Farms and Vilicus Training Institute

Havre, Montana

Wali Via

Co-Owner and Farmer at Winter Green Farm

Noti, Oregon

Biodynamics, Indigeneity, and Social Justice

Saturday, November 17, 8:30 - 10:30 am

Transforming the heart of agriculture means transforming our human relationships. How can biodynamic, traditional, and Indigenous farmers and land stewards connect and learn from one another? What steps can we take to build equity, inclusion, and true community in North American agriculture? Orland Bishop, Jim Embry, and Claudia J. Ford will share perspectives on these important questions and engage in thought-provoking dialogue with one another and conference participants. Moderated by Megan Durney.

Update: Unfortunately, Rowen White will be unable to join us as planned for this keynote presentations due to the wildfires in California. Our hearts are with her and all affected by these fires.

We are pleased to welcome Claudia J. Ford to the keynote panel in her place.

Orland Bishop

Executive Director, ShadeTree Multicultural Foundation

Los Angeles, California

Jim Embry

Founder and Director of Sustainable Communities Network

Lexington, Kentucky

C laudia J. Ford

Teacher of Women’s Studies, Environmental Literature, Environmental and Business Ethics, and Global Business Economics

Providence, Rhode Island

Regenerating Soil, Food, and the Economy

Sunday, November 18, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

What does regeneration look like on the levels of soil, food, culture and economy and what are the challenges and opportunities we face in the coming decades realizing this potential? Hear a biodynamic practitioner, an Indigenous chef and farmer, and a leader in socially responsible investment share perspectives on these questions and engage in a lively conversation about the future of regenerative and biodynamic agriculture. Moderated by Greg Georgaklis.