Ras Virtual Summit

The Ras Virtual Summit is an enlightening event focused on sustainable agriculture and resilience, taking place in San Luis Obispo, United States. Central Coast Bioneers has collaborated with Cal Poly's Center for Sustainability to feature prominent permaculture author Mark Shepard as the keynote speaker. Shepard, who is the CEO of Forest Agriculture Enterprises LLC and founder of Restoration Agriculture Development Inc., is recognized for his work on New Forest Farm in Wisconsin, an impressive 106-acre perennial agricultural savanna. This farm is often cited as one of the most ambitious sustainable agriculture projects in the United States, showcasing a planned conversion from traditional row-crop farming to a commercial-scale perennial agricultural ecosystem, drawing inspiration from ecological models such as oak savanna, successional brushland, and eastern woodlands.During the summit, Shepard will delve into topics such as restoration agriculture, agroforestry, permaculture principles, keyline design, and the management of perennial cropping systems. He will also address vital strategies for water management that enhance resilience in the face of climate challenges, such as floods and droughts. The event aims to foster collaboration among individuals and organizations dedicated to creating environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially just communities. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Shepard's insights and learn about innovative approaches to sustainable farming. The event does not require reservations, and an entrance fee of $5 will be collected at the door. For those interested in further experiences, there will also be a pre-conference eco-paddle in Morro Bay, highlighting the theme of putting nature at the center of community initiatives.