12:30-1:15 Lunch

1:15 – 2:15pm: Transitioning to Organics with Melanie Rivard
Melanie is an independent organic inspector and evaluator with over a decade of experience in organic certification, having worked in the sector since 2010. Melanie will be using her experience to lead a workshop on transitioning to organics, and/or implementing organic practices.

2:15 – 2:30pm: Break.

2:30 – 3:15pm: Market Analysis & Updates with Dr. Laura Telford
Laura has spent the past 14 years as Manitoba Agriculture’s Organic Specialist. Her priorities are to work to ensure that organic operators have the skills and the market intelligence they need to build resilient and profitable businesses. She will be providing key updates and statistics about the scope and trends within the organic industry.

3:15 – 3:30pm: Break.

3:30 – 4:30pm: Developing High-Phosphorus Organic Fertilizers with Dr. Joanne Thiessen Martens
Dr. Thiessen Martens is a Professor at the University of Manitoba. She completed both undergrad and PhD degrees at the University. Her research focuses on nutrient flows in agroecosystems, including agronomic and environmental aspects. She is especially interested in phosphorus dynamics in soils and plants, as well as nutrient dynamics in all kinds of ecological farming systems. Joanne will be presenting her research findings on Struvite, Compost, and other Organic Phosphorus Management.

REGISTER AT: https://www.manitobaorganics.com/event-details-registration/organic-agdays-2026