How Texans can learn more about local produce, state-made wines

AUSTIN (KXAN) — A new initiative from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension is working to share the wonder of Texas farming, winemaking and other horticulture fields with a younger audience.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension will host a two-day conference, dubbed "Taste 360," on March 15-16 in an effort to connect attendees with local producers.

"What we're trying to do is to attract a younger audience as well — people who are interested in where their food comes from, how to grow healthy, nutritious food in their backyard, how to prepare healthy meals and learn more about Texas wines," said Andreea Botezatu, an associate professor and enology extension specialist at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

The appeal is twofold, Botezatu said: it not only keeps money local, but it also minimizes some of the environmental impacts spurred by international or out-of-state transport of goods.

"We support people who are our neighbors, our friends, local producers," she said. "By going local, the impact on the environment is much lower. This is much more sustainable — you have less transportation, less refrigeration, less of all these practices that require energy and polluting output as well.

Prospective attendees will begin March 15 with a wine pairing and appetizers course in Texas A&M's gardens, with a strong focus on locally-grown produce and wines. Afterwards, guests will attend a farm-to-table meal at Messina Hof Estate Winery.

On March 16, attendees will spend the day going through educational events that include sessions on coffee production, backyard chicken operations, the theory behind flower arrangements and how to prepare healthy foods quickly and effectively.

"Making that connection for the younger generation, I think that would be an important takeaway," she added. "How to eat healthier, and how to integrate in the community — how to support the local growers, where to find them, things of that nature."

The event isn't only an educational opportunity, but a nonprofit conference in benefit of a graduate student. All event proceeds will go toward helping her complete her master's studies in horticulture, Botezatu said.

Those interested in attending the event can register online. Taste 360 is also offering a virtual option, where participants can receive access to recorded sessions after the conference weekend.

The deadline to register is Feb. 28. More information on Taste 360 is available online.