The Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association’s annual fall conference is slated for Nov. 17-18 at the Clanton Conference and Performing Arts Center in Clanton. The conference will focus on farm visits, hands-on training and the ever-changing fruit and vegetable industry.

Conference registration has been reduced to $85 this year and includes a one-year membership to the AFVGA. Federation members can save an additional $30 by registering with their Federation membership number. All other registration is $85. Register online at AFVGA.org. Check in starts at 7:30 a.m. Nov. 17, with the opening session starting at 8:30 a.m.

The Federation’s Mac Higginbotham said this conference is a prime networking opportunity for Alabama’s specialty crop farmers.

“Fruit and vegetable production is rapidly growing in Alabama,” said Higginbotham, the Federation’s Horticulture Division director. “Through this conference, we’re creating a community for farmers to share groundbreaking ideas that will change Alabama agriculture for the better.”

Conference topics include conventional and organic growing methods; crop production; pest management; and traditional and alternative crops.

“Our goal is to help farmers improve their bottom lines,” Higginbotham said.

Attendees can also visit Penton Farms in Verbena to see peach production and marketing, as well as U-pick strawberry and pumpkin patches. The farm tour is offered twice Nov. 17 at a cost of $15.

In addition to general sessions, the conference will have a trade show. Booths are available for $300 each.

For more details or to register visit AFVGA.org.