Register Now for the 2015 Missouri Governor’s Conference on Agriculture

October 21, 2015

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) – The 46th Governor’s Conference on Agriculture is set for December 16-18, 2015, at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, Mo., and registration is now available online at agriculture.mo.gov. This year’s theme is ‘Agriculture: Tell Your Story.’ This gathering provides a platform for ag leaders and innovators to share the story of Missouri agriculture through development of forward-thinking ideas, discussions on current issues and promotion of Missouri’s number one industry. 

“Gathering together as an industry each year to discuss current and upcoming opportunities and challenges is critical to the continued success of our industry,” said Fordyce. “The Governor’s Conference on Agriculture is a long-standing tradition for leaders among Missouri’s producers, agribusinesses and youth to collaboratively learn and share ideas that will enhance the future of Missouri agriculture.” 

The conference will take place Wednesday through Friday this year, which is different than in years’ past. The program will include Director of Agriculture Richard Fordyce, nationally-recognized speakers, in-depth discussions and an agriculture tradeshow, all led by emcee Cyndi Young of Brownfield Ag News. Covering the most important trends shaping our world between now and 2035, a presentation by Seven Revolutions will provide insight into agriculture’s increasingly important role in society. 

Session topics include a “State of the Industry” panel discussion among Missouri’s agricultural commodity leaders, an update from Attorney General Chris Koster of recent agriculture-related court actions, a look at agriculture’s impact on Missouri’s major metro areas and the next step in agriculture energy solutions. Friday afternoon’s activities will be an opportunity to spotlight young leaders in agriculture, and will highlight some of the outstanding youth making a difference in Missouri agriculture. 

Thursday evening will include dinner and an auction raising money for Missouri agriculture’s future leaders. The event culminates Friday evening with the Missouri Agriculture Awards banquet and entertainment by country music artist, and Missouri native, Chris Janson.  

The Missouri Agriculture Awards will be presented to recognize those who stand out for their commitment to innovation, giving back to their communities, committing to good land stewardship and being a great example for future generations. 

The Taste of AgriMissouri reception on Wednesday evening gives attendees the opportunity to connect with Missouri producers and small business owners. The reception will feature the finest products Missouri agriculture has to offer, including foods and beverages from Missouri’s agricultural organizations, wineries and other AgriMissouri member companies.  

The conference is open to the public; however, registration is required. On-site registration is available during the conference. Conference information is available on the department’s website, agriculture.mo.gov, and through the social media hashtag #MyFarmMyStory. The event is funded through sponsorships and registrations.  

For more information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit agriculture.mo.gov.

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Note: Members of the media planning to cover the Missouri Governor’s Conference on Agriculture in Osage Beach should contact Sarah Alsager at [email protected] for additional information and media registration.