Northwest Michigan Field Day Explores Farming for People, Purpose, Profit

By Andi Anderson

Farmers and agricultural professionals are invited to attend the Northwest Michigan TOPP Field Day titled Farming for People, Purpose, and Profit on August 18, 2026.

The free educational event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time and will feature tours of two farms along with a farmer panel discussion.

The field day is organized by the Michigan Transition to Organic Partnership Program in partnership with the Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference.

The goal of the event is to share real world farming experiences that balance community involvement, environmental responsibility, and farm profitability.

The day will begin at Bear Creek Organic Farm in Petoskey. Participants will learn about certified organic practices, organic certification, labor standards, hoophouses, scaling up farm operations, marketing strategies, and on farm markets.

A light breakfast with coffee and pastries will be provided, along with water and snacks throughout the morning.

Midday, attendees will have time to network during lunch at Bear Creek Organic Farm.

Lunch is provided at no cost, and participants are encouraged to explore the on-farm market. Information on farm networking partners and land access programs will also be available.

In the afternoon, the group will travel to Lakeside Farm in Boyne City. This stop will focus on regenerative farming practices, beginning farmer resources, land access, market gardening, soil health, composting, grazing, and the use of multi species cover crops. Seasonal treats such as watermelon and ice cream will be offered.

The day will conclude with a farmer panel discussion hosted at Lakeside Farm. The panel will include both organic and regenerative farmers and will cover topics such as farmland transition, business succession, and practical farm decision making across generations.

Registration is required, space is limited, and the deadline to register is August 11, 2026. The event is free and open to anyone interested in sustainable and community-driven farming systems. For questions, participants are encouraged to contact event organizers directly.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-livingimages