A potential new police station at the Magnolia Ave. and Van Buren Blvd. intersection and a 126-acre adventure sports complex and mixed-use project on the former Riverside Golf Course site in the Northside is on this week's agenda.
The Grow Conference is back! On February 27 and 28, 2025, this highly anticipated event will once again bring together farmers, food advocates, and agricultural experts to explore the latest innovations and challenges in sustainable farming.
This year’s conference features an impressive lineup, including keynote speakers Christine Birdsong, Under Secretary for the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and Gary Nabhan, a renowned agricultural ecologist, ethnobotanist, and author. With their expertise, attendees can expect insightful discussions on the future of farming, food systems, and sustainability.
Day 1 of the conference, held at the Northside Agriculture Innovation Center, is free to attend thanks to the generous support of Grow partners. With five tracks and fifteen sessions, participants can dive into topics such as regenerative agriculture, funding opportunities for farmers, the role of pollinator-friendly hedgerows, pasture poultry farming, and the connection between food systems and community well-being through the lens of Blue Zones.
The evening of February 27 brings a special treat: a hyper-local farm-to-fork dinner at Riverside Community College District’s rooftop in downtown Riverside. Prepared by culinary students, this dinner will showcase the region’s freshest ingredients in a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
On Day 2, attendees will have the opportunity to tour local farms with the Inland Empire Food Systems Alliance. The tour includes a visit to the Ecological Agriculture Training (EAT) Farm’s Beginning Farmer Apprenticeship Program in Norco, followed by stops at Gable Farms and the Riverside Greenbelt.
With an exciting lineup of discussions, hands-on learning, and a chance to connect with the Inland Empire’s agricultural community, the 2025 Grow Conference promises to be an event you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a farmer, food advocate, or just someone passionate about sustainability, mark your calendar and get ready to grow!
Riverside artist Rebecca Waring-Crane’s latest project, Article 24, transforms food insecurity data into a powerful visual statement—inviting the community to take part in raising awareness and inspiring change.
