By Scout Nelson
Each year during February and March, regional Local Food Producer Workshops are organized to support farmers and small food businesses across Kansas. The workshops are held in partnership with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Kansas SARE. In 2026, the events are also co-sponsored by Growing Growers through a USDA-NIFA Beginning Farmer Rancher Development grant, helping expand learning opportunities for participants.
These workshops are designed to help producers understand how to successfully market and sell their products through farmers' markets, direct-to-consumer sales, and other local marketing channels. Participants gain practical knowledge that helps improve business planning, marketing strategies, and overall success in local food systems.
In addition to learning sessions, the workshops create valuable networking opportunities. Producers can connect with other farmers, small food businesses, and industry professionals to exchange ideas and learn from real experiences. Peer learning plays an important role in helping participants discover new approaches and strengthen their businesses.
The 2026 workshop series include helpful services such as free scale certification and lunch at all locations. Some workshops also provide training for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, giving producers additional tools to expand sales opportunities. Participants are encouraged to review workshop agendas for details on topics and available sessions.
For scale certification, attendees are advised to bring up to five years of previous scale test reports if available. If a scale has never been certified, it must have an active NTEP Certificate of Conformance. Producers can check certification status through the official NTEP certificate website before attending.
One scheduled workshop will take place in Parsons on March 6, 2026, at the Southeast Research and Extension Center. Online registration is available, with registration closing on February 27. Mail-in registration pdf is also offered for those who prefer paper registration.
Overall, the Local Food Producer Workshops provide practical education, technical support, and networking opportunities that help strengthen local food systems and support producers as they grow their businesses and serve their communities more effectively.
Photo Credit: istock-elenathewise
Categories: Kansas, Business, General