Mark your calendars! The 2026 Gather to Grow Forest Farming Conference is heading to Blacksburg, VA, from October 23–25, 2026, at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center. Hosted by the Appalachian Forest Farmer Coalition (AFFC), this event gathers forest farmers, landowners, researchers, and technical assistance providers from across Appalachia and beyond.

Key Highlights & Updates:

• Extended Early Bird Rates: You now have until August 7th to lock in discounted registration rates.

• Sponsors & Exhibitors Needed: AFFC is looking for general, featured, and scholarship sponsors, as well as exhibitors. Scholarship funding is particularly critical this year to help keep the conference accessible to as many growers and practitioners as possible.

• What to Expect: The three-day event will feature pre-conference activities, expert keynote speakers, interactive panels, and hands-on workshops focused on non-timber forest products (NTFPs)—including medicinal herbs, maple syrup, woodland foods, and specialty forest crafts.

  
  

Head over to the 2026 Gather to Grow Conference Page to secure your registration before August 7th or to apply as a sponsor/exhibitor.