Growing Connections at the 2026 BUGS Conference

Learning doesn't stop at the farm! From October 23–25, members of the Baton Roots team traveled to New Orleans with several of our agroforestry apprentices to attend the 2026 Black Farmers & Urban Gardeners (BUGS) National Conference at Dillard University.

The annual conference brings together farmers, urban growers, educators, and community leaders from across the country to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and strengthen connections within the agricultural community. With a focus on Black agriculture, food justice, and sustainable growing practices, BUGS creates a space for conversations about the future of farming and the communities it supports.

For our Baton Roots apprentices, attending the conference was an opportunity to step outside their everyday work at the farm and connect with a larger network of people who share their interests. Through educational sessions, discussions, and opportunities to meet fellow growers, the gathering offered new perspectives on the challenges and possibilities within urban agriculture.

Bringing New Perspectives Back to Baton Roots

At Baton Roots, we believe some of the best learning happens through hands-on experience. Our agroforestry apprenticeship program gives participants opportunities to develop practical skills in growing food, caring for trees, and supporting more sustainable communities.

Experiences like the BUGS Conference help connect that local work to a much larger movement. From improving access to fresh food to creating more opportunities in agriculture, growers across the country are finding ways to make a difference in their communities.

We're grateful our apprentices had the opportunity to attend, learn, and make connections beyond Baton Rouge. We look forward to seeing how these experiences continue to shape their growth and the work happening at Baton Roots.

Want to learn more about the conference? Visit the Black Farmers & Urban Gardeners website to explore the organization and its mission.