By Scout Nelson
North Dakota fruit and vegetable growers will have an opportunity to learn important food safety practices at a free produce safety workshop scheduled for June 30 in Des Lacs. The event is designed to help growers understand food safety requirements, improve farm operations, and strengthen consumer trust in locally grown produce.
The workshop will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hilltop Farm and is organized by the North Dakota Department of Agriculture in partnership with several agricultural organizations.
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring encourages growers and others interested in produce safety to attend the educational event.
“Fruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about local produce safety policies, Good Agricultural Practices / Good Handling Practices certification and the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule should attend,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “The workshop will provide practical guidance to help reduce foodborne illness risks, strengthen consumer confidence and support farm growth.”
Participants will receive information about several important topics related to produce safety. These include inspections, licensing requirements, recordkeeping practices, and the development of farm food safety plans. Attendees will also learn about requirements connected to the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule and certification programs that support safe food production.
The workshop will feature a guided tour of Hilltop Farm. Local grower Ann Olson will share her experiences implementing produce safety practices and discuss how these measures help support successful farming operations.
In addition to educational sessions, participants will receive free produce safety resources. Each attendee will receive a bacterial water testing kit that can help monitor water quality used in crop production. A complimentary lunch will also be provided through support from Strengthen North Dakota.
Registration for the workshop is available online and remains open until June 26, 2026. Attendance is limited to 25 participants, allowing for a more interactive learning experience.
Contact Jenna Nieters, NDDA local foods marketing specialist, at 701-328-2659 or jnieters@nd.gov with any questions.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables