Have you registered yet? If not, is it because you have unanswered questions? Is it because you’re intimidated by the scale and complexity of the Des Moines International Airport? Is it because you’re afraid visiting Iowa in March will make you want to move here? Ready for more questions…and answers?
Q: What are the dates of the event?
A: Thursday, March 3 (Hands-On Clinic), Friday, March 4 (Affiliate Basic Training and All-Affiliate Social), Saturday, March 5 (Affiliate Conference). Click here for an overview and to download an agenda.
Q: Where can I find details about travel, accommodations, and things to do?
A: FarmLaunch.me
Q: What can I attend, and what do I have to attend?
A: All events are open to all affiliates. If you are a new affiliate you are required to attend the Basic Training on Friday, March 4. Second-year affiliates, and veteran affiliates who didn’t attend the event last year, can satisfy their training requirements by attending either the Basic Training or the Conference (or both!).
Q: I’m a new affiliate. How important is it that I attend the Hands-On Clinic on Thursday afternoon?
A: The clinic is completely optional. If you already have experience with electric net fences, solar fence energizers, and handling/moving goats, you may find the clinic to be too basic. However, if weather allows we will practice installing fencing outside in challenging places, setting up a hypothetical project, and loading goats into trailers, which may be new to you. There will also be time to meet and socialize with other affiliates.
Q: Is there a fee for any of the events?
A: The Hands-On Clinic, Basic Training, and Social are all free to attend. The Conference has a $150 registration fee per affiliate (bring as many representatives as you like for one fee).
Q: Do I have to register even if I’m only attending the free stuff?
A: Yes, please! Registering for each event you want to attend helps us with our planning.
Q: Can I bring people with me?
A: We encourage you to bring multiple representatives from your targeted grazing business at no extra charge. Family members, employees, etc. are all welcome — anyone you would consider to be part of your team.
Q: Can kids come along?
A: All of the events involve intense learning that young children would likely have trouble sitting through. If you have older kids (roughly middle school and up) that will be a part of your business, bring them!
Q: What’s the dress code?
A: No dress code, just a few recommendations. Friday’s and Saturday’s events will take place entirely inside. Dress casually and comfortably. We’ll take plenty of breaks, but there will be a fair bit of sitting. If you come to the Hands-On Clinic, warm outdoor work wear is a must. Wear your chore clothes and be prepared for anything from 10 degrees to 65 degrees. Much of the clinic will be held in an indoor — but unheated — horse arena.
Q: Are meals on my own?
A: We’ll provide snacks and drinks, but lunch on Friday and Saturday are on your own. We find that most attendees need a long lunch break away from the conference center to mentally recharge. There are lots of restaurants near the conference center.
Q: Tell me more about the All-Affiliate Social.
A: That’s not technically a question, but here goes…The social is the highlight of the weekend for many people. It’s simply a time to visit with other affiliates, ask questions, share experiences, and enjoy some appetizers and drinks. This year it will begin right after the Basic Training finishes (5:00-ish), but you don’t have to attend the Basic Training to come. If you’re attending the Conference on Saturday, plan to arrive in town early enough on Friday evening to join the party!
Q: Can I get a ride?
A: Absolutely! We can pick you up at the airport, take you to your hotel, and make sure you get to the local events. Contact Margaret at support@GoatsOnTheGo.com and let her know what you need.
Q: How do I register, and what’s the deadline?
A: Click the button below to register. You’ll add each event to your cart (even the free ones) just like any online store. Always enter “1” for the quantity. You’ll be cued to indicate how many team members from your business will attend before you check out. It would be extremely helpful to us if you register by February 15.