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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413502
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Food Summit Opening & Overview: Building a Resilient Regional Food Economy in the RGV
8:45 AM - 9:50 AM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Starr/Brooks/Willacy Room
Opening Remarks - A Message from the Hosts: Dr. Daniel P. King
This panel brings together Region One, UTRGV and the Institute for Ecology Scholarship and Health together to introduce their work and share their roles in shaping the Food Summit. Panelists will reflect on how the Summit has evolved over the years, highlight key accomplishments, and discuss how collaboration has strengthened their efforts to support a more resilient regional food economy in the Rio Grande Valley.
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All Attendees
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0/500
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413509
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Panel 1 - Identifying Infrastructure Gaps and Removing Structural Barriers
10:05 AM - 11:05 AM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Starr/Brooks/Willacy Room
What are the common barriers in a food system that prevent small farmers and ranchers from reaching the next level? This panel will examine some typical infrastructure gaps and explore possible solutions.
Film 1: RFBC Film
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All Attendees
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0/500
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413512
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Panel 2 - The Future of Local Food: Youth Perspectives
11:10 AM - 12:10 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Starr/Brooks/Willacy Room
In this panel, we feature student voices to glimpse what our future food system could be. We will hear their stories, aspirations, and ideas for how to bring about these changes.
Film 2: Brownsville ISD Film by BBC
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All Attendees
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0/500
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413514
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Storytelling as a Leadership Skill in Food and Community Systems
12:40 PM - 2:45 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
Story of Self, Us, Now is a highly-interactive workshop where participants learn a storytelling model that incorporates using our personal stories to connect with others through shared values and invite them to take action. Every participant is highly-encouraged to practice sharing their own story of self at the end of the workshop.
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All Attendees
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413518
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Turning Purchasing Buyers into Values-Aligned Procurement Architects
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Brooks County Room
James Briscoe, creator of the N.E.R.D. framework (Know the Need, Evaluate the Specifics, Research the Details, and Deliver), provides a structured path toward Best Value Procurement in public education. This session explores how to align financial and procurement decisions to maximize transparency and long-term impact. Join us to dive into the financial strategies, compliance, and budgeting necessary to drive student-centered outcomes.
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Food Distribution
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413521
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Financial Assistance through USDA NRCS including the Regenerative Pilot Program
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Learn about technical and financial assistance programs to help you improve your natural resources, including the Regenerative Pilot Program, set to help American farmers adopt practices that improve soil health, enhance water quality and boost long-term productivity.
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Access to Finances
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413524
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The Role of Farmworkers in the Food System
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
Explore the vital role farmworkers play in our food system—past and present. This session will highlight the history of land loss and erasure experienced by communities in the region, examine the current realities and challenges faced by farm and food workers, and open a conversation on pathways forward.
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Farmworker Rights
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413517
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Research Insights for South Texas Crops
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Starr County Room
Pests and production challenges remain a constant concern for both row and specialty crop growers across South Texas. Join us for a presentation from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, where applied research meets practical, on-the-ground solutions for producers.
In this session, you’ll explore the latest findings in pest management and crop production, with an emphasis on strategies that can be directly implemented in South Texas operations. Participants will gain valuable insights into current challenges, emerging trends, and science-based approaches to strengthen crop health, resilience, and overall productivity."
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Food Production
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413600
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How to Work with TDA's GO TEXAN Marketing Program
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Brooks County Room
TDA's GO TEXAN initiative promotes Texas-based businesses and products through marketing, branding, and funding. In this session, we discuss the key aspects and requirements of the program.
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Food Distribution
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413601
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Accessing SSARE and TDA Grants
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Learn how to apply for SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education) and TDA (Texas Department of Agriculture) grant programs. We will hear from local representatives, technical assistance providers, and other producers who have gone through the process.
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Access to Finances
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413602
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Sowing Seeds of Support: Understanding Migrant Education Programs in South Texas
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
Farmworkers are the foundation of South Texas's agricultural success, yet their highly mobile lifestyle often presents unique educational barriers for their children. In this session, we will explore the Title I Part C Migrant Education Program and its critical role in identifying, recruiting, and supporting migratory families. Aligning with the summit's mission to support the well-being of our communities , this presentation will help farmers, ranchers, and community members understand how to better advocate for these essential workers. Join us to learn how we can collaboratively connect and grow solutions that ensure access to educational resources for migrant children, ultimately strengthening our local food economy.
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Farmworker Rights
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413599
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Research Insights for Cattle Raisers
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Starr County Room
Profitability in the cattle business can be especially challenging for small- and mid-scale producers. From managing pests and drought to keeping up with rising input costs, staying ahead requires constant adaptation and innovation. Join us for an engaging workshop featuring experts from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), and a fellow producer. They’ll share practical strategies, new techniques, and tools designed to help you improve efficiency and resilience in your operation. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the latest research and real-world experience!
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Food Production
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413607
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Farm and Ranch to School Success Stories
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Brooks County Room
Selling to institutional buyers is a great way for farmers to grow their operation. In this session we hear some success stories from schools who purchase local food and farmers who have gone through the process.
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Food Distribution
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413608
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Accessing USDA AMS and RD Grants
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Learn how to apply for USDA AMS (Agricultural Marketing Services) and RD (Rural Development) grant programs. We will hear from local USDA representatives, technical assistance providers, and other producers who have gone through the process.
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Access to Finances
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413603
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Technical Assistance
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
Get the support you need to move forward. This session offers producers the opportunity to connect with technical experts, ask questions, and discover tools and resources to strengthen their work.
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Food Production & Networking/Other
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0/200
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Wednesday April 22, 2026
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413606
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Produce Safety for Small Producers
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Starr County Room
How can produce farmers incorporate key areas like hygiene, water quality, and sanitation to their operation? This session will cover best practices, tools, and considerations to prevent contamination and comply with food safety regulations.
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Food Production
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413626
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The Role of Food Banks in a Regional Food System
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Brooks County Room
Food banks are critical for reducing food waste and alleviating food insecurity throughout the country. In this session, we discuss different programs and how local farmers fit into that model.
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Food Distribution
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413629
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Accessing USDA FSA, NRCS, RD Loans and Loan Guarantees
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Fort Ringgold Room
Learn how to apply for USDA FSA (Farm Service Agency), NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Agency) and RD (Rural Development) loan programs. We will hear from local representatives, technical assistance providers, and other producers who have gone through the process.
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Access to Finances
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413621
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Day 2: Technical Assistance
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
Get the support you need to move forward. This session offers producers the opportunity to connect with technical experts, ask questions, and discover tools and resources to strengthen their work.
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Food Production & Networking/Other
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413625
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Opportunities for Small-Scale Meat Processing
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Starr County Room
Opportunities for Small-Scale Meat Processing
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Food Production
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413631
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TDA FRESH TRAYS– Advanced Local Procurement Training - For Schools
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
This advanced training is designed for child nutrition operators participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), School Breakfast Program (SBP), Summer Meals Program (SMP), and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) who are interested in purchasing local foods and supporting Texas agriculture. Participants will learn how to select appropriate procurement methods, develop compliant solicitations, connect with local producers, and navigate the local purchasing process with confidence.
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TDA FRESH TRAYS
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413651
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Texas A&M AgriLife FRESH TRAYS - For Producers
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Brooks County Room
FRESH TRAYS connects Texas producers with schools to bring fresh, local foods onto kids’ lunch trays. This session highlights how collaboration strengthens farm-to-school partnerships, improves child nutrition, and fosters resilient communities.
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Food Distribution
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413655
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Accessing Capital Thru Farm Credit, SBA, CDFIs
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Fort Ringgold Room
Learn how to apply for capital through Farm Credit, the Small Business Association, or Community Development Financial Institutions. This session will cover what you need before you apply and how to maximize your chances for success.
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Access to Finances
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413648
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Policy Landscape for Texas Producers
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Starr County Room
Navigating today’s agricultural policy environment is more complex than ever, and this session will provide Texas farmers and ranchers with a clear, practical overview of the key state and federal policies shaping their operations, market access, and long-term sustainability. Featuring insights from the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, a leading advocate for independent producers, the discussion will highlight current legislative developments, regulatory challenges, and opportunities for engagement, equipping attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to stay informed, involved, and prepared for what’s ahead.
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Food Production
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413635
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AFT Learning Circle for Women Farmers and Ranchers
9:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
The American Farmland Trust Learning Circles are a peer-to-peer learning model meant to create a brave space for women farmers and ranchers to build knowledge, share experiences, and strengthen farm and ranch operations while supporting healthy ecosystems. Lindsey Richards and Deydra Steans will offer insight into what Learning Circles look like on the ground and highlight upcoming opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. Deydra will also lead a discussion on the challenges and successes of implementing regenerative rangeland management in the region.
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Food Production & Networking/Other
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413663
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Setting Up for Success at the Farmer’s Market
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Brooks County Room
What does it take to be successful at your local farmer's market? This session will focus on strategies on how to get started and prosper with fresh and value-added products.
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Food Distribution
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413668
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Profit/Loss Workshop - Financial Statements 101
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Financial record-keeping is a cornerstone of running a successful business. Learn the basics of maintaining financial records and preparing financial statements, along with some DIY techniques for saving time & money.
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Access to Finances
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413660
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The State of RGV Water
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Starr County Room
What are water districts? What role do they play in agriculture, our food, and our communities? In this session, we explore these and other questions as we seek to understand what we can do about water and water issues in Texas.
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Food Production
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413671
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Buyer Supplier Event: Bringing Farmers, Ranchers and Schools Together
1:15 PM - 2:30 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
By bridging the gap between South Texas producers, distributors, and school nutrition leaders, this event aims to fortify the local food supply chain and ensure a sustainable, farm-to-school future to feed our students.
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Food Distribution
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0/200
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413672
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Expanding Local Food Efforts & Access: Partnerships with Faith Based Organizations Keynote Panel with Various Faith Leaders
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Starr/Brooks/Willacy Room
Join us for a conversation among faith based leaders from across the Rio Grande Valley to reflect on the vital connection between healthy food systems, community well-being, and shared values of stewardship and justice. Drawing on diverse traditions, these leaders will explore how access to nutritious, locally-produced food is not only a public health issue, but also a moral responsibility - one that calls for care of land, support for farmers, and compassion for neighbors. Rooted in the unique cultural and agricultural landscape of the RGV, the conversations will highlight how faith communities can play a powerful role in advancing sustainable practices, strengthening local food networks, and ensuring that all families have access to healthy, affordable food.
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All Attendees
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0/500
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Thursday April 23, 2026
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413674
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Panel 3 - From Discussion to Action: Calls to Action, Commitments, and Next Steps
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Starr/Brooks/Willacy Room
How do we transform insights into tangible outcomes? In this panel, we will discuss next steps and ideas to continue building momentum towards our vision.
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All Attendees
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0/500
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