Northeast Michigan Agriculture Outlook Program held March 4

Sorting out global markets, U.S. ag policy, marketing opportunities and the 2014 Farm Bill this year and beyond.

Farmers are facing a much different economic picture going into 2014 than in past few years. Gone are the high prices, and the world economy has changed the market outlook. High input costs, a new Farm Bill, EPA's proposal to reduce the Renewable Fuel Standard, all could reduce the opportunities to price commodities at a profitable level. While lower crop prices are a detriment to some, they’re also a bit of a blessing to others — especially those who buy grain or are feeding livestock.

To help farmers make decisions in 2014, the Northeast Michigan Agriculture Outlook Program will be Tuesday, March 4, 2014, at the SaganingTribalCenter. The program will begin with registration at 9:30 a.m. followed by the program starting at 10 a.m. There will be three concurrent breakout sessions in the afternoon that will be repeated so participants can attend sessions on two different topics. The program will conclude at 3 p.m. The cost for the program is $20 per person.

Program participants will have an opportunity to hear Michigan State University Extension specialists David Schweikhardt, Jim Hilker and Chris Wolf discuss the United States and global economic picture, market outlook and suggest strategies for milk, grain and livestock marketing in 2014. Michigan agriculture lending personal will discuss agriculture credit issues and opportunities. In addition, there will be discussions on the 2014 Farm Bill and how it might impact farmers in Northeast Michigan.

If you wish to attend please go to Northeast Michigan Agriculture Outlook Program Events Management page to register or contact the Ogemaw County MSU Extension office at 989-345-0692

If you have questions, please call Paul Gross at 989-772-0911 ext. 220 or Dennis Stein at 989-672-3870.

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