The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment will host its first gathering for individuals interested in local grains in the regional food system. The Southeastern Grain Gathering is Sept.15-16 at UK’s Horticulture Research Farm in Lexington.

“Our goal is to bring together individuals from across the Southeast who are interested in local grain production to discuss how we can build small grain value chains in our region and develop a local grain movement in the Southeast,” said Dave Van Sanford, project lead and UK professor of wheat breeding and genetics.

The gathering will feature hands-on baking demonstrations and keynote talks about the history of cooking and the rebirth of Southern cuisine. Speakers including chefs, millers, distillers, bakers, food scientists and industry experts. Participants will learn about building local grain value chains, including how North Carolina developed its farmer-miller-baker experience. The conference will serve as a networking opportunity for producers, processors, end users and consumers.

In addition to the event, participants may attend pre-gathering activities on tortilla making and flour milling and dough preparation on Sunday. They can also choose one of two tours that allows them to see the area, and learn more about Kentucky’s local grain and bourbon production on Tuesday, Sept. 17.

Individuals interested in learning more or registering for the gathering should visit https://localgrains.ca.uky.edu/segg. The registration deadline is Sept. 1, and the cost is $275.

UK’s Horticulture Research Farm is located at 4321 Emmert Farm Lane, Lexington, KY 40514.