Commodity Futures, Options Workshops Scheduled

PULLMAN, Wash. — Managing Market Risk, an introductory course on understanding commodity futures and options for farmers, is scheduled at Colfax, Waterville, Walla Walla and Ritzville during January and February.

Larry Makus, professor of agricultural economics at the University of Idaho, will provide an introductory explanation on how to use cash forward contracts, hedging, options and other market tools.

Gayle Willett, WSU extension economist, will review basics of farm and ranch risk management.

Jon Newkirk, WSU extension economist, will show where to find market outlook information needed to make sound marketing decisions.

Crop insurance questions will be answered by a representative of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency.

All workshops are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dates and locations:

  • Jan. 21, in the Community Building at the Palouse Empire Fair Grounds, Colfax.
  • Jan. 30, North Central Washington Fairgrounds, Waterville.
  • Feb. 6, WSU Cooperative Extension, 317 Rose St., Walla Walla.
  • Feb. 13, American Legion Hall, 106 W. Broadway, Ritzville.

Registration is $30 for the workshops in Colfax, Waterville and Ritzville; $20 for Walla Walla. The fee covers the cost of educational materials and lunch at the Colfax, Waterville and Ritzville locations. Lunch is not included at the Walla Walla site.

Pre-registration is required. Registrations must be received at least four days before the workshop date. Call (509) 659-0090 in Ritzville for registration materials.

The workshops are sponsored by WSU Cooperative Extension and the USDA Risk Management Agency.

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