The Great Lakes Forage and Grazing Conference returns for 2026
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EmailDesigned for farmers, students and agribusiness leaders, this year’s conference delivers hands-on knowledge, Michigan-based expertise and practical tools to strengthen forage operations.
The Michigan Forage Council and Michigan State University Extension are excited to announce that the 2026 Great Lakes Forage and Grazing Conference will be held Thursday, March 19. The theme for this year’s conference is “Back to the Basics of Making a Profit.” This event is geared toward forage producers, students, graziers, agribusiness professionals and educators.
The conference has moved to a new location. It will be held at the CTE John C. Magnus Center, located at 3200 S Clare AveHarrison, MI 48625. This brand new facility offers convenient access from US‑127. Attendees will hear from speakers throughout the day and have opportunities to visit forage-related vendors at the tradeshow.
The conference will open with a welcome and introductions from Michigan Forage Council President Jon Nelson of JNelson Farms. This year’s keynote speakers are Michigan’s own Ben and Denise Bartlett of Log Cabin Livestock in the Upper Peninsula. Ben is a retired Michigan State University (MSU) Extension educator with decades of grazing experience. Their keynote session is titled “How Grass Bought the Farm.”
Participants will also hear from three Michigan farms as they share how forages are used in their operations during the popular Forage Spokesperson Contest. After lunch, the conference features a presentation on 45 years of best forage practices by retired MSU Extension educator and Michigan Forage Council secretary Jerry Lindquist.
Afternoon breakout topics feature an update on MSU forage research from Kim Cassida, MSU forage specialist, and sessions on the importance of grazing plans, preventing and managing hay fires, and an in‑depth look at virtual fencing technology with insights from company representatives, university experts and farmers currently using the technology.
Registration, which includes a meal prepared by the CTE Culinary Arts Program, is $65 before March 15 and increases to $75 after March 15.
Register for the Great Lakes Forage and Grazing Conference
For more information or help with registration, contact Brittany Schultz at the Gladwin County MSU Extension office at 989‑426‑7741 or msue.gladwin@msu.edu.