Produce safety workshop scheduled

BISMARCK, N.D. – The North Dakota Department of Agriculture will host a free produce safety workshop on Tuesday, June 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hilltop Farm in Des Lacs.

“Fruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about local produce safety policies, Good Agricultural Practices / Good Handling Practices certification and the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule should attend,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “The workshop will provide practical guidance to help reduce foodborne illness risks, strengthen consumer confidence and support farm growth.”

Topics to be covered include:

• Inspections
• Licensing requirements for the First District Health Unit (counties of Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Renville, Sheridan and Ward)
• Recordkeeping
• Creating a farm food safety plan

Attendees will tour Hilltop Farm in Des Lacs and hear from local grower Ann Olson about implementing produce safety practices on her farm. Participants will receive free produce safety resources, including a bacterial water testing kit. A complimentary lunch will be provided by Strengthen ND.

The workshop is hosted by NDDA in partnership with Strengthen ND, Hilltop Farm and the North Dakota Farmers Market and Growers Association.

Registration is available online and closes June 26, 2026. Attendance is limited to 25 participants. Contact Jenna Nieters, NDDA local foods marketing specialist, at 701-328-2659 or jnieters@nd.gov with any questions.