Shepherd University’s Agricultural Innovation Center Hosts Regional Soil Conference

ISSUED: 9 April 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Shepherd University's Agricultural Innovation Center at Tabler Farm welcomed farmers, producers, and buyers from across the region on April 3-4 for "Soil Health to Shelf: Build Your Soil. Build Your Brand."

Shepherd hosted the free, two-day conference in partnership with the WV Food and Farm Coalition, a statewide nonprofit network dedicated to building a sustainable local food system by supporting farmers, promoting access to healthy food, and shaping agricultural policy.

The conference drew more than 70 participants from four states-West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia.

Shepherd University Farm Coordinator Madison Hale said the Agricultural Innovation Center was the ideal venue for the conference.

"This event was exactly what the Agricultural Innovation Center was designed for," Hale said. "I hope this is only the beginning of a bright future for the center as it serves the regional small-scale agriculture community through hands-on learning."

Participants learned real-world strategies for improving soil health, strengthening farm systems, building compelling brands, and confidently expanding into wholesale and cooperative markets.

Many of the practical learning sessions took place in the newly constructed agribusiness center, an experience Incubator Farm Coordinator Molly Sutter said was particularly exciting.

"It was really encouraging to have our new building full of this kind of energy and excitement," Sutter said.

Located just one mile from Shepherd's main campus, the Agricultural Innovation Center at Tabler Farm is a 158-acre historic agricultural property featuring forest and field landscapes. The site is home to the Tabler Student Farm and the Agricultural Small Business Incubator.

You can learn more about Shepherd University's Agricultural Innovation Center at Tabler Farm here.

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