The fifth assembly of Organicology took place in Portland, OR on February 2-4, 2017. This conference focuses on “the study of a sustainable food future,” with several tracks ranging from grower education to organic policy. The conference was well attended by a wide range of participants spanning the organic movement. Organic processors, distributers, growers, retailers, restauranteurs, advocacy groups, policy makers and research institutions were all represented. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the organic food chain from soil to seed to table, and discuss their vision for growing the organic movement.

The conference began on Thursday with several intensives, including a session on “Transition and Growth in the Organic Sector.”  In this session, participants discussed the barriers to organic certification and explored ways to encourage growers to transition to organic production. The intensives provided a space for all attendees to work together to solve issues facing the movement. After a full day of intensives, the evening began with a lively seed swap followed by keynote speaker Mas Masumoto. Friday was a full day of workshops with topics ranging from organic seed availability to climate change. The tradeshow on Saturday was an incredible networking opportunity, with over 100 companies active in the organic industry on display. One of the best organic tradeshows in the region, booths offered samples of produce, organic products and tasty beverages, as well as lots of organic knowledge and resources!  This conference stands out in the way it brings all sectors of the organic market together, as well as its sense of fun and community spirit. The next Organicology will be held February 14-16 in 2019.