Johann Rinkens of Fields Without Fences will be participating in three sessions at this year’s Annual Winter Conference…
(Details Below)
We’ll also be chatting and handing out free samples of Elderberry Elixir at the Exhibitor Hall & Maker’s Market!
Agroforestry for Any Context: Versatility and Benefits Across Diverse Land Uses
Speaker: Johann Rinkens, Fields Without Fences
Agroforestry, the integration of trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes, offers a powerful tool for enhancing sustainability, productivity, and resilience in farming systems. In this presentation, we will explore how agroforestry practices, as outlined by the USDA, can be applied across a wide variety of farm operations and land use contexts, from small-scale farms to large agricultural enterprises.
The session will highlight how these practices can be customized to fit a wide array of farm types, climate conditions, and management goals. By integrating trees and shrubs into their operations, farmers can improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, reduce input costs, and increase farm resilience to climate change. We will also discuss the financial, environmental, and social benefits of agroforestry, as well as the challenges and opportunities that arise in different agricultural settings.
Unlocking Market Potential for Local Farmers through Collaborative Farm Retail Outlets
Speakers: Devin Cornia, NOFA NJ; Charles Rosen & Alec Gioseffi, Ironbound Farm; Johann Rinkens, Fields Without Fences
Explore how farmers in NJ and Eastern PA access new markets through collaborative farm retail outlets. This innovative project between Jersey Cider Works, Ironbound Farm, & NOFA-NJ demonstrates how on-farm markets, local grocers, and other retail outlets can be leveraged to boost sales for local, value-added products. This will be achieved by utilizing Jersey Cider Works’ farm winery retail outlet licenses, enabling farmers to access new retail spaces by collaborating together for “shelf access” & cohesive messaging.
Learn how targeted marketing strategies and co-branded promotional materials can drive consumer demand, helping farmers expand their reach. We’ll present a scalable model that will increase market visibility for producers and foster long-term growth of off-farm sales. This session is a must-attend for anyone interested in cooperative farming, innovative marketing, and scaling local food systems.
Increasing Land, Capital & Market Access Program Overview
Speakers: Tony Kennette, Nate Kleinman, Scott Morgan, Johann Rinkens, Jim Simon
NOFA-NJ’s Increasing Land Access initiative is focused on supporting aspiring farmers & historically underserved producers in growing organic grain and native crops by offering comprehensive technical assistance - including guidance on crop selection, seed purchasing, organic farming practices, market access, and capital resources - and land access. Through a partnership with NJDEP’s Fish & Wildlife, the initiative has created a pilot land access program that integrates organic farming, education, business planning, and community collaboration. The primary goal is the transition of 500 acres within New Jersey’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) to organic practices, demonstrating both the conservation benefits - such as improved soil health and wildlife habitat - and the financial viability of organic production, while offering farmers rent-free land leases to overcome financial barriers to entry.
NOFA-NJ staff and consultants will provide an in-depth overview of the Increasing Land Access initiative, highlighting key aspects of the project. We will offer detailed information about each of the available land locations, including the specific characteristics and potential of each site. The presentation will also cover the program’s components, such as technical assistance, available funding, seed selection, and applicable farming practices. Additionally, we will discuss the technical aspects of grain production, as well as the challenges and opportunities for organic farming in this unique setting. Emphasis will be placed on community outreach efforts, detailing how the initiative engages historically underserved farmers and provides the necessary support for success through education, business planning, and market access.From nofanj.org…
NOFA New Jersey’s 35th Annual Winter Conference
NJ’s premier organic food and agricultural event, will be hosted at The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel in Asbury Park on January 25, 2025!
Our state’s food security relies upon local producers and effective, accessible food systems. In order to keep the Garden State well-nourished, NJ farms must find resilience to withstand a changing climate, global economics, and evolving agricultural policies. Join us in Asbury Park for a day (and evening) filled with education, connection, and lots of local food as we highlight efforts to support local farming and food systems throughout the Garden State.
30+ Workshops on Farming, Homesteading, Food Systems & More
Exhibitor Hall featuring Ag Industry Pros, Partner Organizations, Product Demos, Book Signings, & More
Post-Conference Social Hour with Live Music & Local Libations
Saturday Night Film Screening of Roots So Deep with Peter Byck
Local and Organic Breakfast & Lunch Included with Registration
REGISTER TODAY at www.nofanj.org
Speaker Bio:
Lindsay Napolitano & Johann Rinkens are the co-founders of Fields Without Fences, a 45-acre agroforestry operation and agroecology consulting service. On our farm, located within the Delaware River watershed, we integrate approaches found in environmental restoration, permaculture design, and regenerative agriculture to create low input, self-renewing, agroecological systems that naturally restore health and integrity to our shared landscape. Beyond our fields, we bring these practices to our consulting and design work with farmers, landowners, and organizations.
