2026 Mid-Atlantic Agroforestry Conference by MAC
By Appalachian Forest Farmer Coalition
TL;DR: Explore forest farming and multifunctional buffers at a 2026 conference for Mid-Atlantic agroforestry.
- Learn forest farming for high-value crops.
- Discover multifunctional buffers for ecosystem services.
- Network with farmers, researchers, and practitioners.
- Gain insights on agroforestry system design.
- Advance agroforestry adoption in temperate climates.
Why it matters: Agroforestry offers diversified income and strengthens ecological resilience for farms in the Mid-Atlantic.
Do this next: Mark your calendar for June 4-5, 2026, to attend the Mid-Atlantic Agroforestry Conference.
Recommended for: Farmers, researchers, and practitioners in temperate climates interested in advancing forest farming and multifunctional agroforestry systems.
The 2026 Mid-Atlantic Agroforestry Conference, organized by the Penn State Botany, Ethnobotany and Agroforestry Program in partnership with various organizations, marks the inaugural event focused on forest farming and multifunctional buffers within forest-based agroforestry definitions. Scheduled for June 4-5, 2026, at Penn State University, the conference brings together farmers, researchers, and practitioners to explore innovative agroforestry practices suited to the Mid-Atlantic region. Key topics include forest farming techniques for cultivating high-value crops under tree canopies, such as medicinal herbs, nuts, and mushrooms, alongside multifunctional buffers that enhance water quality, biodiversity, and farm profitability. Sessions feature expert presentations, hands-on demonstrations, and networking opportunities to address challenges like market development, policy support, and climate adaptation. The event underscores agroforestry's role in sustainable land management, providing diversified income streams while promoting ecosystem services like carbon sequestration and soil health. Participants gain practical insights into designing and managing agroforestry systems, including species selection, site preparation, and economic viability assessments. This conference serves as a pivotal platform for advancing agroforestry adoption in temperate climates, fostering collaborations between academia, farmers, and policymakers. It highlights success stories from Appalachian forest farmers, emphasizing resilience against economic volatility and environmental changes. Attendees can expect field tours, workshops, and discussions on scaling agroforestry for broader impact, making it essential for those interested in permaculture-aligned practices in forested landscapes.