The Oregon Environmental Council will sponsor a free all-day workshop from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday Feb. 23 at the Sixes Grange, 44556 Highway 101 in Sixes.

The informational workshop, “New Market Opportunities for South Coast Agriculture,” is co-sponsored by the South Coast Watershed Council and will demonstrate the profit of growing consumer demand for regional, sustainably produced foods.

€ Allison Hensey, program director of agriculture with the Oregon Environmental Council, will discuss current trends, opportunities and challenges in value-driven food markets.

€ Local cranberry growers, sheep and cattle ranchers will discuss experience in sustaining agriculture for future generations.

€ Farmers and food vendors who sell to value-driven markets, such as Kathy Panner from Umpqua Valley Lamb and Country Natural Beef, will share successes and challenges.

€ Representatives from the Food Alliance, Oregon Tilth and Salmon Safe will share information about the benefits and challenges of third-party certification systems.

€ Adam Zimmerman from Shorebank Enterprise Pacific will discuss organizational and financial issues for businesses selling to new markets, and Matt Schuld from the University of Portland Business School will discuss marketing products.

€ Time will be dedicated to break-out sessions to discuss needs specific to the South Coast, such as processing and distribution.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided by the Langlois Market. There will be a reception 4:30- 5:30 p.m.

For registration, call Clare Naber at (503) 222-1963 x106.