From the fine folks at the Spokane Conservation District:

Dear District Staff and Friends of Conservation,

It is with much enthusiasm that I extend this invitation to attend and participate in or 2021 Farm and Food Symposium November 5th and 6th at The Centennial Hotel in downtown Spokane. We are excited to resume this two-day, in-person event where progressive farmers (small and large), ag industry professionals, and conservation partners will gather to gain a deeper understanding of the ecological practices and the economic incentives of regenerative farming.

This year’s conference theme is Better Soil, Better Food, Better Health.  Our keynote speaker for the conference will be Ray Archuleta, Certified Professional Soil Scientist with the Soil Science Society of America. Ray has over 30 years’ experience as a Soil Conservationist, Water Quality Specialist, and Conservation Agronomist with NRCS. After his retirement from the NRCS in 2017, Ray founded Understanding Ag, LLC, and Soil Health Academy, LLC, to teach Biomimicry strategies and Agroecology principles for improving soil function on a national scale. The subjects Ray will bring to this conference are:

  • Regenerative Agriculture: The Butterfly Effect That Will Change the Agriculture World
  • Understanding Key Indicators of Soil and Ecosystem Function

In addition to Ray, attendees will get to choose several classes and workshops on a variety of subjects lead by local leaders and professionals including soil health, investment opportunities in regenerative ag products, and conserving natural resources. Other standout features of the conference include several panel discussions, break out meetings to address food insecurity to cultivate a more sustainable food system, and meals that feature locally sourced food. You can view the full conference schedule here.

Each year, we strive to bring in new and exciting speakers and subjects, and this year’s conference promises to have something for a broad spectrum of attendees encouraging and helping them achieve their regenerative agriculture goals and objectives – whether they are a farmer, rancher, processor, restaurant, retailer, or involved consumer.

We would love to have the support of our fellow Washington State Conservation Districts, so we are offering 50% OFF of any district employees’ registration. To secure your spot register here and enter in the coupon code wacd21 and it will apply the discount for you.

Also, for any out of town guests, we have secured a special group room discount of $129/night at The Centennial Hotel. You can reserve your room using this link by October 16th. This discounted group rate will not be available after Oct. 16th. Group rate also available when contacting the hotel directly at 844-733-3305 and mention they are with the Spokane Conservation District.

If you would like more information or have any questions, please contact Hilary Sepulveda at 509-535-7274 ext. 214 or by email to .

Download the brochure: Farm and Food Symposium 2021