In anticipation of a new and improved raw milk bill being introduced in the 2014 legislative session, Rural Vermont announces its Raw Milk Summit, scheduled for Sunday October 27th at the Bethel Town Hall with special guest Mark McAfee of Organic Pastures. Past, current, and future raw milk producers of all sizes and from every corner of Vermont are invited to participate in a full day of consensus-building, strategizing, networking, and much more.
If you'd like to see an improved raw milk with comprehensive change, Rural Vermont needs your guidance and feedback as plans and details are sorted for the 2014 legislative session. Changes to the current raw milk law will affect everyone selling any quantity of raw milk, so it is critical that ALL raw dairy farmers attend and participate in this process!
Special guest and raw milk champion Mark McAfee of Organic Pastures Dairy will be keynoting the event and on-hand throughout the day for informal conversation.
Mark McAfee is the founder of Organic Pastures Dairy, a family owned, operated, and inspired raw milk dairy near Fresno, California. His is one of the few remaining family-owned and operated dairies in California and they produce 100% USDA certified organic, Grade A, raw milk of super-premium quality. Mark is one of our country’s most valued raw milk and food freedom activists, and is internationally recognized as an expert in raw milk production.
Farmers can also expect a mini resource fair featuring businesses, organizations, and individuals offering expertise and assistance on topics of specific interest to raw dairy producers. Invited participants include Mark McAfee’s Raw Milk Institute, Bob White Systems, Co-op Insurance, Weston A. Price Foundation, plus several healthcare professionals and vets. Get questions answered about raw milk’s health benefits and safety record, as well as best practices, animal health and technical assistance.
Throughout the day, farmers will be fueled with snacks generously provided by our good friends at Champlain Orchards and Healthy Living Market. A largely local and complimentary, hearty lunch will be catered by the fine folks at Chef’s Market in Randolph. Meat and vegetarian soups supplemented by cornbread, roasted squash, and fermented veggies are on the menu.
Following the hard work of the day, it’ll be time for some fun – and dessert! Farmers are encouraged to stay and invite their customers and other raw milk enthusiasts to join the group for a free and open-to-the-public Ice Cream Social from 4-5 pm.
To ensure we have the wisdom of as many farmers as possible, there is no cost to attend the Summit, however pre-registration is required. Register online at www.ruralvermont.org or call the office (802) 223-7222. All Summit participants will be enthusiastically invited to become members of Rural Vermont by making a sliding scale contribution either online in advance or at the door.
Assistance with carpooling, childcare, and local accommodations may be available. For ongoing updates about the Summit, check back here periodically or visit www.ruralvermont.org. Contact Shelby Girard at shelby@ruralvermont.org with any questions.
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