Farmer-Chef Conference to be held in Buffalo.

Hyatt Regency Buffalo will play host to the Third Annual Farmer-Chef Conference on Monday, February, 21.
               
The theme this year is "Bridging the Farm to Table Gap" meaning all farmers, restaurateurs, and related professionals will gather and build awareness of Western New York's agricultural products, their quality, and accessibility to restaurants and the food industry in general.
               
"Using locally grown products is a boon to our economy," says Lisa Tucker, president of the Field & Fork Network. "Regional farms grow nutrient-rich produce, raise animals for food responsibly and employ a local workforce. Restaurants and food-related businesses save money when buying locally and have access to fresh, healthy, high-quality products. It's a win-win for everyone."
               
Western New York is home to nearly 7,500 farms in eight counties. There is a diverse range of crops, livestock, and dairy among other things. This is the reason why there is such a large following for the farm to table movement. Since 2008, the amount of restaurants that use local products has grown dramatically and they hope to keep that trend going.
               
"This growth is encouraging," Tucker continued. "Our annual conference is a superb way to foster collaboration and to continue nourishing the local food movement here in WNY."
               
Topics for the multiple programs and workshops will include butchery, institutional food procurement, value chain management, and appreciation for local wines. Joel Salatin, farmer and owner of Polyface Farm in Swope, Virginia, will be the keynote speaker at the conference. He is one of the many leaders in the farm to table movement and he has a passion for small farms and the need for a sustainable regional food paradigm in communities.
              
Lunch will include an informal topical discussion with a local expert seated at each table. Discussion topics can range from urban agriculture, school gardens, aquaponics, and recycling at your business.

The conference costs $65 per attendee or $85 per attendee with a marketplace table. The conference will be sponsored by Wegmans and more information can be found at www.fieldandforknetwork.com.

Salatin will also be appearing the same night for another speech at the Daemen College Wick Center at 8 p.m.  The speech will carry on the message that small farms can help the economy, create a healthier community and benefit the environment. "An Evening with Joel Salatin" will be $18 and $20 and are available at www.brownpapertickets.com. You can also get tickets by calling 716-565-2306.