More than 1,500 organic farmers and gardeners are expected in Massachusetts this weekend for the 35th Northeast Organic Farming Association conference.
The three-day event that starts Friday features about 200 workshops on just about everything from growing crops and raising livestock, to setting up community-based co-ops, to marketing and selling produce.
Organizers say interest in organic growing is being spurred by an increased awareness of the health and environmental benefits of organic food as well as by people looking to grow their own produce during a tough economy.
The conference draws organic growers from all six New England states as well as New York and New Jersey
Conference co-coordinator Julie Rawson says most of the people expected to attend are not large-scale operators.