Conference to Help Farmers Compete

PULLMAN, Wash. — The 2nd Northwest Direct Seed Cropping Systems Conference and Trade Show Jan. 5-7, 1999 in Spokane will give farmers an opportunity to learn how to reduce costs and improve profitability for a competitive edge in global markets.

Seven in-depth focus sessions feature 37 speakers, including researchers and industry representatives and growers from the Pacific Northwest, Northern Great Plains, Canada, Argentina, and Brazil.

Topics include:

  • National and international trends and experiences.
  • Agronomics and economics of new crops and crop rotations.
  • Economics and strategies for the transition to direct seeding.
  • PNW grower experience with systems and equipment for direct seeding.

A new feature of the 1999 Conference will be a trade show.  It will include extensive commercial and educational exhibits.

Conference Coordinator Roger Veseth said nearly 900 Northwest growers and farm advisers attended the first conference.  Between 1,200 and 1,500 participants are expected at the coming conference.

Pre-registration is $75 (spouse $45) through Dec. 18th after which registration will be $90.  Credits have been requested for state pesticide applicator re-certification and Certified Crop Adviser continuing education.

Contact the NW Direct Seed Conference office at (509) 547-5538, FAX (509) 547-5563, or e-mail maurer@owt.com to receive a program and pre-registration brochure or Conference Trade Show/Sponsorship prospectus.

A Conference Home Page on the Internet will also provide updates on programs and events.  For more information, contact Veseth, WSU/UI Extension Conservation Tillage Specialist, at 208-885-6386, e-mail rveseth@uidaho.edu.

The Conference is organized by the Pacific Northwest STEEP III program with support from 13 agencies, businesses and organizations.  STEEP stands for Solutions To Environmental and Economic Problems.

The STEEP III program is a cooperative research and educational effort on conservation tillage systems through the University of Idaho, Oregon State University, Washington State University, and USDA-Agricultural Research Service.

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