Farmers interested in growing organic feed stocks and exploring new marketing opportunities are encouraged to attend one of two regional workshops sponsored by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Workshops will cover how to transition to organic grain and forage production, how to become certified organic, ways to maximize the conservation benefits of organic farming and marketing, and funding opportunities.

Speakers will include nationally renowned expert John Teasdale of the USDA-Agricultural Research Service in Beltsville, and local farmers who have successfully transitioned to organic.

Workshops will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 25 at Libertytown Volunteer Fire Company in Frederick County; and March 11 at Queen Anne's County 4-H Park.

Workshops are free and include lunch. Registration is requested by Feb. 15.

Information: 410-841-5779 or mda.state.md.us/pdf/organicwkshp.pdf