About the Organic Growers School
Now in its 15th year, the OGS seeks to provide down-to-earth and affordable information on all aspects of sustainable living, from raising healthy food with environmentally-friendly methods, to using renewable energy, cooking wholesome meals, and creating native landscaping. We do this primarily through our three programs: The Organic Growers School Spring Conference, the Farmer to Farmer Mentoring Series, and the True Nature Country Fair.
The Organic Growers School, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, is a result of the cooperation between representatives of North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, North Carolina State University, Warren Wilson College, Blue Ridge Community College and many WNC farmers & educators.
A Brief History
In 1993, a group of farmers and specialists gathered to discuss the growing need for a conference that addressed the nuts and bolts, region specific, crop growing information applicable for farmers in Western North Carolina. The Organic Growers School is a grassroots organization that grew out of the volunteer efforts of these agriculturists, with a mission to deliver very practical information about organic agriculture at a reasonable price.
The first Organic Growers School was held in 1994, attracting just under 100 participants. By 2006, the school grew to over 1000 participants, drawing farmers, gardeners, and educators from 14 states, and becoming the largest event of its type in the South.
The School’s distinctive structure, practical and timely instruction, community involvement, and motivated mission contribute to its repeated success. The rise in attendance coincides with the national organic industry’s annual growth rate of over 20%. Even with its popularity, the original mission of OGS remains the same, and the founders are proud to offer a learning service that contributes to the future of sustainable agriculture while building relationships within the community.
OGS Board of Directors
Tom Elmore, President
Co-owner & Operator, Thatchmore Farm
Jeanine Davis, Vice President
Assoc. Professor & Extension Specialist, NCSU
Karen Vizzina, Treasurer
Earthstar Herbals & massage therapy
Linda Blue
NC Cooperative Extension
Karen Joslin
Warren Wilson College
Ruth Uffleman
Reems Creek Nursery
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Always Growing
The Organic Growers School is committed to developing its curriculum according to the increasing demand for practical grower-to-grower education in the southern Appalachians.
Towards that goal, OGS recently obtained its 501(c)3 non-profit status, and the board is working to expand its programs beyond the Spring School in order to meet the increasing demand for accessible knowledge on sustainable agriculture.
Be sure to look for us in the coming year as we develop our program and provide more educational opportunities.
The vision for OGS in the future includes:
• Classes & workshops in a variety of locations, to different audiences, multiple times per year.
• More on-the-farm sessions
• A sustainable Agriculture curriculum available at a local community college.
• A family-oriented fall country fair
