NDSU Sets Agricultural Outlook Conferences

Given the volatility of commodity markets and input costs, the North Dakota State University Extension Service has scheduled nine agricultural outlook conferences throughout the state. Several members of the NDSU Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics will be presenting.

At all sites, Frayne Olson, crops marketing specialist, will provide his outlook on crop markets and how to manage price risks. At most sites, Tim Petry, livestock economist, will provide an outlook on livestock markets. Dwight Aakre and Andy Swenson, farm management specialists, will discuss input costs and projected crop profitability for 2011. Also, Swenson will discuss farm financial trends and outlook.

At some sites, Aakre and Swenson will provide a farm program update on the Average Crop Revenue Election and Supplemental Revenue Assistance programs, wheat loan rates and an update on crop insurance for 2011. At certain sites, Aakre will discuss the benefits and costs of sharing and transferring machinery for farm transitions.

The conferences will be held at the following sites:

• Bismarck - Bismarck State College, Jan. 24, 1 p.m.
• Williston – Research Extension Center, Jan. 26, 9 a.m.
• New Town - Civic Center, Jan. 26, 2 p.m.
• Hettinger - Research Extension Center, Jan. 27, 10:45 a.m.
• Finley - Legion Hall, Feb. 22, 9:30 a.m.
• Jamestown - Knights of Columbus, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.
• Linton - Courthouse auditorium, Feb. 23, 10 a.m.
• Maddock - Event Center, Feb. 24, 9 a.m.
• Carrington - Research Extension Center, Feb. 24, 2 p.m.

Lunch will be provided at some sites. The list of topics varies among sites, but most conferences will last three hours. Contact your local county Extension office for more information about the conference schedule.

NDSU Agriculture Communication - Jan. 10, 2011