Missouri farmers will have the opportunity to learn from some of the nation's top experts in forage and grassland management as well as network with other producers from around the country at the American Forage and Grassland Council Conference June 21-23 in Springfield.
The Missouri Forage and Grassland Council and Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative will host the AFGC Conference, which features educational seminars, exhibits, scientific displays and contests.
"This is a great opportunity for Missouri to showcase the importance of grassland agriculture to Missouri's economy as well as show off some of southwest Missouri's best grassland producers," says Mark Kennedy, state grazing lands specialist with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Houston.
Kennedy recommends that producers take in the Forage Spokesperson Contest, where producers from various states tell how they manage and utilize forages in their operation. Jeremia Markway of Eugene will represent Missouri in the competition.
"This conference highlights the newest developments in forage production -- from scientific research to field application of these technologies to new equipment/products," says David Davis, MFGC president and superintendent of the University of Missouri Forage System Research Center, Linneus. "This year we plan on having three tours offered that showcase Missouri beef, dairy and hay production. The multi-stop tours will visit several local farms to highlight cutting-edge production practices. All of the tours will end at the MU Southwest Research Center at Mount Vernon."
MFGC leaders expect 300 to 400 producers to attend, along with forage industry representatives, government agency and university personnel.
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The conference will be held at the University Plaza Hotel, Springfield. For more information and registration, contact the American Forage and Grassland Council office at 800-944-2342 or visit the website www.afgc.org.