Michigan Family Farms Conference
Michigan Family Farms Conference
TBD
The Michigan Family Farms Conference is more than just a conference. Year after year, farmers, educators, and food system professionals gather to network, learn, and share resources and experiences. We also come together to celebrate diverse agricultural experiences, expand our knowledge of sustainable agriculture, and strengthen the supportive network of farmers that we know is essential for building resilient farms.
The Michigan Family Farms Conference offers beginning, small-scale, and culturally diverse farmers a chance to network, learn, and build sustainable family farms. It is an energizing, hands-on event featuring multiple tracks of breakout sessions plus a youth track to engage the whole family.
Nominations
*No awards will be given in 2025 as the planning committee re-assesses this portion of the conference.
The planning committee would like to invite you to nominate individuals, farms, or producers for the awards presented at the Michigan Family Farms Conference (MFFC). Awards selection will be performed by the MFFC Planning Subcommittee, individuals representing many fields throughout the industry. The awards descriptions are below and you may send multiple nominations.
Award Descriptions
Farmer of the Year:
This award recognizes the people who put their heart, time, and energy into their farming endeavors and the health of their communities. They are leaders among small-scale sustainable farmers and land stewards, who inspire creativity, adaptability, and encourage holistic practices.
Dr. LeRoy Ray, Jr. Award:
This award recognizes a Food System Leader who is dedicated to bringing about positive change in their community through networking, education, advocacy, and ground work. They are passionate about uniting people around community care through food systems education, cultivation or distribution as a means for increased resilience and well-being.
Morse Brown Award, Courageous Catalyst:
This award recognizes people who demonstrate determined courage in the face of difficulties. They are not deterred by obstacles and navigate them in a relentless, plucky, audacious, and authentic way. They are a mover, shaker, and a change maker.
The conference is made possible in part by a grant from the USDA 2501 Program – Outreach and Assistance to Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers.