Speakers on tap for the Texas Plant Protection Association’s annual Conference, Dec. 5-6, at the Brazos Center in Bryan, Texas, will discuss far-ranging issues from the state of the world economy, expectations for the next farm bill, and techniques, challenges and opportunities affecting farms and ranches in Texas and beyond.

Luis Ribera, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Economist, leads off with an update on the status of world economics and how that affects U.S. and Texas agricultural interests.

Bart Fischer, Chief Economist, U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, will offer a timely evaluation of “U.S. Ag Economics / Farm Bill.”

Beau Greenwood, Executive Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs, CropLife America, looks at “Agricultural Advancements.”  Mark Miller, CEO, Texas Farm Credit, will discuss “Texas Agriculture- Finance.”  Peter Dotray, Texas A&M                                        AgriLife Research offers a Texas Agriculture technology update.                

 Ray Smith, TPPA Chairman of  the Board closes out the opening session with an update on the Flag the Technology mobile app offered to Texas producers during the 2017 growing season.

Afternoon sessions include a pest identification contest directed by Barron Rector, Texas AgriLife Extension Service.

DAY TWO

Day two features major crop breakout sessions and the annual rewards luncheon. A poster display, including research projects from AgriLife research as well as student entries will feature analyses of cutting edge research. A student poster contest offers cash prizes.

“The Texas Plant Protection Conference brings together Texas's top agricultural leaders, researchers, consultants, farmers, crop protection companies, distributors, dealers, related ag industry, university researchers and extension personnel,” says TPPA President Gary Schwarzlose. 

It’s a valuable opportunity for the agriculture industry as well, says TPPA Chairman of the Board Ray Smith. 

“Regarded as one of the top crop conference in Texas, this two day event provides sponsors an opportunity to contact and discuss your products and your company's latest information with around 300 crop production leaders in Texas,” Smith says.

For more information on the annual conference agenda, registration and sponsorships, check the TPPA website at  http://www.texasplantprotection.com/ ,email [email protected]   or phone (936) 537-7083 .