The organic Growers Alliance (OGA) chose its very first AGM at Coleshill Organics, near Swindon, to launch its presence on the internet - www.newoga.org.uk
A statement from the OGA said: “The AGM was remarkable, not only for the absence of suits, but for the sense of community felt by the 30 or so growers who attended and shared the passion for growing and selling organic produce.”
“The members present felt that in order for the OGA to become the voice of organic horticulture, it needed to grow its membership, and the website should help achieve that.”
The website gives details of the programme of farm walks and events in 2008, and there is a growers’ blog.
Events planned for 2008 include a visit to Charles Dowding’s holding at Lower Farm, Shepton Montague, in Somerset on June 7, a visit to Tozer’s seeds and organic plant breeding seminar in Cobham, Surrey, on July 16, a farm walk and tour at Riverford Organic Vegetables on August 5, and a farm walk at Hankham Organics in East Sussex on October 17.
The first year of the organisation, which was set up to represent organic growers, has also seen the establishment of a well-received quarterly journal, The Organic Grower, and the implementation of a producer conference, in conjunction with The Organic Research Centre - Elm Farm.
Membership has risen to more than 120 from a standing start. The alliance has been active in setting up the Organic Apprenticeship Scheme with the Soil Association, and fighting the corner for organic growers where it has been necessary.
