The Homestead Conference

The Homestead Conference serves as a pivotal gathering for artisans and agrarians, fostering connections among farmers, craftsmen, and families dedicated to cultivating local food and sustainable practices. This event is hosted at The Heritage Center in Waco, Texas, and is designed to inspire and educate attendees through dynamic discussions led by some of the most accomplished figures in homesteading and sustainable agriculture.At the heart of the conference are renowned speakers such as Joel Salatin, co-owner of Polyface Farm, recognized for his contributions to regenerative farming and community-supported agriculture. Salatin's sessions will delve into profitable farming practices while exploring the cultural philosophies that underpin sustainable agriculture. Alongside him, Shawn and Beth Dougherty, seasoned farmers from Ohio, will share their insights on raising livestock using innovative farming methods that prioritize ecological balance. Other notable presenters include John Kempf, who, after overcoming challenges with his family's farm, founded Advancing Eco Agriculture to help farmers enhance yields while minimizing chemical inputs. Grammy-winning artist Rory Feek will merge storytelling and farming, sharing personal experiences that underscore the importance of sustainability in homesteading.The conference features a diverse lineup of exhibitors, including Southern Cultured Orchards and Nursery, specializing in heirloom fruit trees, and Azure Standard, a major distributor of organic foods. Participants can also learn from experts in various fields, such as Anne Briggs, who teaches regenerative farming techniques, and Bevin Cohen, an herbalist advocating for sustainable living through local food systems. Workshops will cover a range of topics from beekeeping by Randy Oakley to holistic health approaches by Dr. Ben Edwards, emphasizing the interconnectedness of soil health and human well-being.Additionally, the event will provide attendees with access to vendors offering homesteading supplies, from poultry starter kits to organic farming products, ensuring that they leave equipped with the tools necessary to embark on their homesteading journeys. The atmosphere will be one of community and shared knowledge, with opportunities for networking among like-minded individuals.The Homestead Conference promises an immersive experience for all participants, featuring a lineup of speakers that collectively bring hundreds of years of homesteading experience to the table. It serves as a catalyst for a vibrant agrarian culture, nurturing the development of local food systems and sustainable craft, ultimately aiming to create a holistic, land-based economy that supports families and communities across the United States.