Rooted in Support: Farmers Share Their TOFGA Conference Experience

At the Texas Center for Local Food, we believe in the power of knowledge-sharing, community-building, and investing in the future of sustainable agriculture. That’s why we launched the Farmer Support Fund to provide financial support for farmers to attend valuable training and networking opportunities. Thanks to the generosity of our grassroots supporters, we were able to offer six scholarships to farmers to participate in the Texas Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (TOFGA) 2025 conference. Two farmers were able to seize this educational and networking opportunity, which provided a space for learning, connection, and inspiration, equipping farmers with tools and knowledge to strengthen their operations.

The two scholarship recipients, Pier-Anne Lachance of Yellow Bird Creek Restoration Farm and Lemi Berhane of Mena Farm, shared their experiences from the conference and the impact it had on their farming journey.

Pier-Anne Lachance: Building Knowledge and Community

Pier-Anne Lachance, a new farmer selling poultry and vegetables in the Houston area, attended TOFGA 2025 to connect with other growers and explore new market gardening and livestock production practices. Reflecting on her experience, she shared:

"I was pleased with the offerings at the conference and surprised by the variety of topics covered. It was hard to choose the best sessions for my context. I have attended other events, but this one provided the most learning opportunities and engaging discussions."

One of the highlights for Pier-Anne was the pre-conference workshops, where she participated in a hands-on crop planning session:

"The knowledge I acquired is directly transferable to my practices this season and tools to build for the future."

Beyond learning, Pier-Anne found immense value in the connections and motivation the conference provided:

"One important aspect of participating in conferences is the motivational aspect—to break the loneliness associated with being a farmer alone on your plot of land. TOFGA 2025 was a great place to get some energy back for the start of the season."

Lemi Berhane: Learning, Networking, and Strengthening Farm Goals

Lemi Berhane of Mena Farm attended the TOFGA 2025 conference alongside her sister, Wubet, as they continue to develop their farm, which includes growing alfalfa for small animals, managing greenhouse vegetables, and preparing barns for pregnant sheep and goats. The conference gave them an invaluable opportunity to network and learn from experienced farmers.

"Networking with seasoned individuals who share similar interests allowed us to gain insight into growing alfalfa, breeding goats, and fine-tuning our farm operations."

The sessions on business and marketing were particularly beneficial:

"These workshops helped clarify our farm’s goals and build a solid marketing plan. In addition, I received valuable information on grants and USDA farm programs for beginning farmers."

Lemi also appreciated the accessibility of resources and support from the sponsors:

"The sponsors were knowledgeable and eager to help, especially in answering my questions about conservation techniques and complying with regulations."

While she missed the keynote speaker, Lemi left the conference feeling prepared and motivated:

"I left with plenty of materials, ideas, and contacts for follow-up. I am also grateful for the scholarship that made it possible to attend this informative event."

Continuing to Support Our Farming Community

The experiences of Pier-Anne and Lemi demonstrate the importance of making conferences and training opportunities accessible to farmers. These gatherings not only provide technical knowledge but also foster the sense of community and support needed to sustain a thriving local food system.

Our Farmer Support Fund is an ongoing initiative, and we continue to accept donations to ensure more farmers have access to educational opportunities like TOFGA. If you’d like to support this effort and help farmers grow their knowledge, networks, and businesses, consider contributing to the Farmer Support Fund today.

Special shout out to the volunteer Board and conference volunteers that organized a successful event enabling these beneficial experiences for farmers!

Together, we are strengthening local food systems, one farmer at a time!