Organic for Better Health
Supporting organic agriculture to improve health outcomes for people, communities, and land
Farming practices have a direct impact on our health!
There is a clear correlation between healthy soils, healthy food, and healthy people. By farming and supporting organic farming practices we gain many conservation benefits including improved soil and water quality, resilience to climate change, increased biodiversity, and wildlife habitat.
Organic farming practices help keep nutrients where they belong – in our food – and helps farmers and communities improve their quality of life.
At this community event, we will hear from a variety of folks about why the transition to organic is so crucial for positive community and environmental health outcomes, and ways we can advocate for healthy, clean food for all.
Light refreshments provided by Smokin’ Oaks Organic Farm Market
Panelists:
Justin Head, Farmer and Owner of Smokin’ Oaks Organics Farm
Justin Head is the only certified organic farmer in Robertson County. Like most farmers, he grew up surrounded by conventional farming practices. After learning how harmful those practices were, he felt convicted to get on the better side of farming. In 2015 he made the switch, and has slowly grown his farm's footprint ever since. Smokin Oaks is best known for it's responsibly raised meats, but is excited to introduce to you their locally grown grain.
Cindy Delvin, Owner of Delvin Farms
Together with her family, Cindy owns and operates a 260-acre all certified organic farm in Williamson county, growing over 72 varieties of fruits and vegetables. They sell to their over-700 member CSA, farmers markets, local restaurants, and organic stores. Cindy was instrumental in forming the Tennessee Organic Growers Association and is currently Vice President. She is a Master Gardener and serves as chair of the Horticultural Division of the Williamson County Fair. She's on the board of Pick Tennessee Conference.
Dr. Dilip Nandwani, Professor-Organic Agriculture Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH)-American Society for Horticultural Sciences (ASHS)
Dilip Nandwani PhD, Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH)-American Society for Horticultural Sciences (ASHS), Professor of Organic Agriculture at Tennessee State University. As an accomplished scientist, extension educator, mentor, and teacher, he sits on the board of several notable organizations including the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) and Tennessee Organic Growers Association (TOGA). He has received thirty-five external grants ($25.2 million), received sixteen awards, edited four books, and presented at over one hundred events nationally and abroad.
Caroline Mayhew, TOPP Project Coordinator
Caroline Mayhew serves as project coordinator in the USDA-funded Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) grant. As a former elementary teacher and farmer, she combines her expertise to support farmers transitioning to organic practices while also contributing to the certified organic farm at TSU to foster a more sustainable and resilient agricultural landscape.
Event Details:
April 11, 2024
6:00-7:30 PM
Smokin Oaks Organics Farm Market
2116 8th Avenue S, Nashville, TN 37204
