On-farm processing of agricultural products is gaining lots of publicity these days. Is it really worthwhile? Georgian College and the Agri-food Management Institute (AMI) are teaming up in November to offer a specialized, two-day workshop that will help farmers evaluate and plan how to make food products for sale to the public.

Transition Smart – Farmers to Processors focuses on connecting farmers with the tools to becomeprocessors. The workshop covers everything from operational planning, marketing and product development to pricing, distribution and sales. Participants will learn to use practical preparation tools that can be immediately implemented and identify feasible value-added opportunities for farming businesses.

The workshop is being offered Nov. 5 and 6 at Georgian College's Orangeville Campus and Nov. 19 and 20 at the Owen Sound Campus. For full details and to register, visit GeorgianCollege.ca/Farmers.

Georgian College is partnering with AMI because the college recognizes the need to offer specialized training to support area farm businesses.

"We recognized the importance of providing specialized knowledge to local farmers and supporting our farming businesses. We are always looking for opportunities to partner with communities and thrilled to partner with AMI and Grey County," said Dan Brooks, Executive Director, Part-Time Studies and Workforce Development at Georgian College.

AMI executive director Alison Robertson said that farmers who want to add value to their agricultural products can play an important role in local economic development.

"The Transition Smart team helps growers develop the skills necessary to take advantage of the opportunities that processing can offer. Not only is this a win for the producer and the region, it is a win for the agri-food sector of Ontario," said Robertson.

Grey County is helping to cover costs of delivering the workshop in Owen Sound.

"Grey County is always delighted to partner with experts and educators to give local producers more opportunities to learn the skills they need to grow and succeed," said Philly Markowitz, Economic Development Officer with Grey County.