Uploaded March 2025 | Updated September 2026, 16 hours ago
Michele Schahczenski, Organic Outreach Coordinator, Utah State University:
Michele works for USU Extension and Utah TOPP to support current and transitioning organic farmers and ranchers through mentorship, technical assistance, and community building. She is an organic and sustainable food systems advocate with experience working in agricultural, small business, public service, and non-profit settings. She has a decade of experience in agriculture as an organic crop inspector, food hub manager, farm worker, food system’s researcher, and extension agent. She has dedicated her life to seeing farmers succeed and communities gain greater access to healthy organic local food.
Penny Trinca, Owner, First Frost Farms:
Penny Trinca is the owner of First Frost Farms in Nibley, Utah. She is a dedicated grower who brings a passion for sustainable farming and high-quality produce to our local food community. At First Frost Farms, she focuses on bringing the best fresh vegetable produce while embracing practices that promote soil health and resilience in Utah’s unique climate. As a valued vendor at the Cache Valley Gardeners’ Market, Penny connects directly with customers, providing locally grown produce that reflects the hard work and dedication of small-scale farmers.
Michele Schahczenski, Organic Outreach Coordinator, Utah State University:
Michele works for USU Extension and Utah TOPP to support current and transitioning organic farmers and ranchers through mentorship, technical assistance, and community building. She is an organic and sustainable food systems advocate with experience working in agricultural, small business, public service, and non-profit settings. She has a decade of experience in agriculture as an organic crop inspector, food hub manager, farm worker, food system’s researcher, and extension agent. She has dedicated her life to seeing farmers succeed and communities gain greater access to healthy organic local food.
Penny Trinca, Owner, First Frost Farms:
Penny Trinca is the owner of First Frost Farms in Nibley, Utah. She is a dedicated grower who brings a passion for sustainable farming and high-quality produce to our local food community. At First Frost Farms, she focuses on bringing the best fresh vegetable produce while embracing practices that promote soil health and resilience in Utah’s unique climate. As a valued vendor at the Cache Valley Gardeners’ Market, Penny connects directly with customers, providing locally grown produce that reflects the hard work and dedication of small-scale farmers.










