PRINCESS ANNE — Organizers are pleased to offer two full days of conference activity for the 11th annual Small Farm Conference, slated for Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7-8, on the campus of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. On-site registration begins at 11 a.m. on Friday with workshops starting promptly at 1 p.m. Saturday’s program is set to begin at 9:15 a.m., with opening remarks. Registration will open at 8:30 a.m.

Dr. Cindy Ayers-Elliott, touted as the CEO investment banker who traded in her high heels for work boots, is the keynote speaker for this year’s event. Bringing to the conference a refreshing twist, she promises to give real to life experiences surrounding her transition, her goats and organic vegetables and her mission to take care of the earth.

Along with diverse and informative agriculture-based sessions, conference highlights include a continuation of the new and beginning farmers track, another installment of the children’s AGsploration program, the popular home food preservation course, and a number of standout sessions that are sure to enhance farming activity on the Shore. In addition, an informative USDA Partners and Farm Bill Update Meeting and a networking reception will round off Friday’s events.

Soil health, the 43,560 Project, aquaculture systems, direct marketing opportunities, growing fresh market potatoes, and appropriately scaled farming equipment sessions are just some of what can be expected. Nutrient credits will be available for participants who attend the soil health session.

For more information or to register online, visit www.umes.edu/1890-mce. Registration fees are $30 per person, $50 per couple, and $10 for each child who is registered without a registered parent. Youth who attend with at least one accompanying parent may register and attend for free. All registrations must be received no later than Monday, Nov. 3. Also, arrangements must be made 2 weeks in advance of the conference for anyone in need of special accommodations to participate.