Tortilla Workshop

This workshop explores corn from its earliest origins in Central America to its modern role in sustainable and organic food systems, with a focus on how growing choices connect to end-use and how intentional growing (especially organic & heritage varieties) supports better food, stronger markets, and long-term resilience in regional grain systems.

Dr. Dusty Dowse will begin the session with an overview of corn’s archaeological history and traditional practices like nixtamalization.

Following this, Rafael Mier (Fundación Tortilla) will lead a hands-on masa & tortilla-making demonstration.

Join Maine Grains for a tour the Somerset Grist Mill in Skowhegan, Maine and learn how a Victorian jailhouse was transformed into important processing facilty of grains and a  hub of innovation.

Kick off the conference with a warm welcome supper at The Miller’s Table at Maine Grains. Enjoy a delicious meal showcasing local grains, connect with fellow attendees, and dive into engaging conversations with farmers, seed savers, and grain experts. It’s the perfect way to start the conference.

Originally from Mexico City, Rafael is an activist for agriculture and traditional foodways. Mier is the founder of Tortilla de Maíz Mexicana, a non-profit dedicated to promoting maize as a fundamental element of culture, nutrition, and economic development.

He has participated in the formulation of public policy proposals and regulatory improvements with the goal of contributing to the fulfillment of human rights related to food, health, and consumer information. Through his work, Rafael has developed a training strategy as well as the dissemination of specialized maize-related content, which positively impacts thousands of people each year.

Description coming soon!

Kevin Haggerty

Climate Resilience Specialist at NOFA-VT

Dr. Natalie Lounsbury and M.S. student Tyler Reid from the University of New Hampshire will present current research on both common and Tartary buckwheat. Their talk will highlight findings from an ongoing agronomic trial as well as emerging breeding efforts aimed at improving Tartary buckwheat performance. They will also discuss the unique benefits of buckwheat and explore the expanding potential of this underutilized crop.

Gather for a mid-day session that blends learning, networking, and nourishment. The Heritage Grain Exchange offers space for farmers, seed savers, and grain enthusiasts to share seeds, stories, ideas, and resources in an informal setting. Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared lunch by The Miller’s Table Café, featuring a delicious menu centered on local grains that showcase the flavors and versatility of Maine’s grain economy.

Exploring the Potential for Upland Rice Production in the Northeast Through Variety Trials
Growing paddy rice requires a specific subsoil and the availability of an ample supply of fresh water. However, there is a long tradition of growing rice in dry, or upland, conditions that permit crops to thrive in well-managed garden beds and farm fields. We’ll explore variety selection, seed sources, conducting trials, and evaluating flavor with an eye toward finding varieties that have the potential for production in the Northeast.

Are you considering using cover crops but not sure if they are worth the hassle? Would you like to integrate cover crops into your grain rotation but aren’t sure how or where they might fit? Have you been contemplating cover crop mixtures but don’t really know where to start? Are you already a cover crop convert but want to learn more? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this session is for you!

About the presenter:

Richard Smith is Professor of Agroecosystem Ecology at the University of New Hampshire.  He is the chair of Natural Resources & Earth Systems Science (NRESS) PhD Program and Undergrad Program Coordinator for the Environmental Conservation and Sustainability (ECS).

Description coming soon!

To conclude the day, Tristan Noyes, Executive Director of the Maine Grain Alliance, will offer closing remarks reflecting on the insights shared, the connections made, and the path ahead for strengthening our regional grain community.