On September 18th and 19th the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic TOPP Core Partners met in Belfast, Maine for their annual in-person meeting. On Thursday, partners kicked off the meeting by reflecting on the past year of
TOPP work and shared how their organizations are supporting their unique farming communities across the TOPP region. Discussion topics also included barriers to organic transition and organic market development.
One common theme shared by partners included how TOPP has helped their organizations to build out their base, allowing them to do outreach that they have never done before. In addition, it was also noted that TOPP work has supported the strengthening of other agricultural partnerships within individual states in the region, including departments of agriculture, NRCS, specialty crop organizations, and university extension. Partners also shared successes of the mentorship program thus far.
On Friday, the group traveled to the Common Ground Country Fair in Unity, Maine. Hosted by core partner, MOFGA, the annual fair is a celebration of rural living and the harvest season featuring agricultural demonstrations across an array of subjects. The NE TOPP Team was part of a record attendance year with over 69K people attending over three days! Later that afternoon, TOPP partners traveled to Luna Moth Herbs in South China, Maine to meet TOPP mentee Zoë Mason. Luna Moth Herbs became certified organic this summer, producing a variety of herbs and teas. Zoë provided a farm tour and shared specific areas of support the TOPP mentorship program provided.
