This three-day event features over 70 educational sessions and workshops, covering topics such as specialty crops, lavender, drone spraying and more. 

Many sessions are led by specialty crop researchers from Michigan State University and other institutions, with the added benefit of pesticide credits available for applicators attending various sessions. The show will be held at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids, Michigan from Dec. 10-12.

Drone spraying in specialty crops symposium

There will be a new all-day event on Thursday, Dec. 12: Drone Spraying in Specialty Crops Symposium, which will focus on using drones to apply crop protection materials in fruits and vegetables.

Experts from the West Coast, Europe and various local industry leaders will gather to discuss the latest best practices and future needs in cultivating vegetables, trees and vines. This comprehensive session will feature panel discussions and ample opportunities for Q&A, ensuring a thorough exploration of the topics.

Geared toward custom applicators and private growers who are considering the use of drones in specialty crop spray programs, participants will gain valuable insights into integrating drones, whether through contracted services or owned equipment.

Expo attendees can register to attend the symposium during the Expo registration process, but there is an additional $50 fee to attend this symposium. Registration is required to attend this session.

Attendees can also earn up to six CEUs.

More to the story — Jon Dinsmore 

Jon Dinsmore, a fourth-generation farmer in Yuma, Arizona, will share his journey of reaching consumers through social media.

“Attendees can expect to hear stories of going viral on social media and how being known as the Green Screen Farmer has allowed me to reach consumers from all sides,” Dinsmore said. “I share how crucial honest dialogue is when building relationships and connecting with individuals or groups — especially those you may think are not interested in your story. It’s about understanding the significance of one’s story, identifying its value and presenting it in an impactful way to everyone who will listen.”

One of Dinsmore’s favorite quotes is: “Your past doesn’t define you, it prepares you.” 

Through his session, he hopes to remind people that your future continues to shape your story — don’t settle for what has already been written.

Dinsmore’s session, More to the Story, will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m EST on Dec. 10.

You can find Jon Dinsmore on social media @thefarmerjon.

Great Lakes Lavender Growers association

This year, the Great Lakes Lavender Growers association will host its annual meeting/conference at the Great Lakes Expo. There will be a full day of education sessions and possibly an informal after-hours networking event. 

The Great Lakes Lavender Growers association works together to create a network of information and collaboration with commercial lavender growers while promoting the lavender industry through research and education. This will be the association’s second year at the Great Lakes Expo.

Details about its appearance at the show are still being organized, but in the meantime, visit greatlakeslavendergrowers.org/about-me/ to learn more about Great Lakes lavender.

Farm Market Bus Tour 2024

Get ready for Monday, Dec. 9, for an exciting full-day bus tour of West Michigan Farm Markets. The Farm Market Bus Tour will be held the day before the Great Lakes Expo and is your chance to dive into the best in farm marketing and agritourism.

This is a great opportunity to network with other farm marketers while learning how some innovative farmers get their products onto the tables of consumers using creative and unique marketing strategies.

There will be interactive discussions with other participants while traveling on the buses that will be moderated by Michigan State University Extension educators. The tour departs from Amway Grand Plaza/Convention Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 

The cost of the tour is $185 per person, which includes lunch and snacks. If you register after Nov. 15, the cost increases to $205 and subject to availability.

For more information about the tour, including descriptions of each of the host farm markets that will be visited, email Caroline Feehery.

For more information and to register, visit glexpo.com.