12:00 PM / Presenter: Dr. Hollee Freeman

An interactive workshop designed specifically for young farmers and ranchers interested in strengthening their operations through beekeeping and pollinator stewardship. Participants will explore the essential role honeybees play in crop productivity, ecosystem health, and farm sustainability. The session will cover beekeeping basics, hive management, seasonal considerations, and how integrating bees can support diversified farm income and improved yields. Whether you are considering adding hives to your operation or want to better understand how to work alongside pollinators, this workshop offers practical insights, real-world examples, and actionable strategies to support long-term agricultural success.

 12:45 PM / Presenter: Dr. Trakela Hicks-Wright

"Smart" Urban Forestry: Using Data, AI, and Technology to Create a Greener Cities—We're excited to use GPS, GIS mapping tools, and AI to help us manage our urban trees! This includes keeping track of tree inventories, analyzing canopies, and monitoring tree health. We focus on selecting, planting, and caring for trees that can thrive in challenging conditions, such as floods, droughts, and heat, making our urban spaces greener and more resilient.

1:30 PM / Presenter: Dr. Neil Brown

Livestock production 2.0; Reimaging the Today's Farms—This session highlights how modern tools like drones, on-farm sensors, artificial intelligence, and solar grazing systems are changing the way livestock operations are managed. Attendees will be exposed to different ways that these technologies support decision-making, reduce labor challenges, and create new revenue opportunities.

2:15 PM / Presenter: Curtis Childres, James Hill and Josh Duschi

Utilizing DIY Hydroponic Systems in Production. The talk will focus on the DIY tote system that was developed at VSU as well as the vertical system shelf growing system. I'll discuss yields, costs, and utilization of the two for small farming operations. Following I will discuss Floriculture, and how we are introducing it into our CEA program at VSU - economic possibilities, value added products, etc. 

3:00 PM - 3:40 PM / Presenter: Dr. Gu and Peter Coffey

Overwinter vegetables (spinach, lettuce, carrots etc.) research and blueberry demonstrations in high tunnels.

3:45 PM  / Presenter: Dr. Mersha

This workshop explores how IPM-based research helps growers and gardeners reduce crop losses from diseases and pests. Participants will learn off-season risk assessment, prevention strategies, and early disease and pest identification, with practical tools—including optional hands-on demos—to support healthier, more productive crops next season.

 4:30 PM / Presenter: Dr. Nartae

Thera-tea (Therapy Tea)-Learning and Designing Tea Blends for Well-Being—Participants will learn about edible flowers and herbs grown at VSU Randolph Farm that research studies demonstrate potential for beauty and mental health benefits!  Participants will have opportunity to make and take their own personal tea blends for their well-being.  It’s “Thera-tea!”