The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers is hosting its 15th annual Farming for the Future Conference at 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Quality Inn and Suites in Ames. 

This year’s conference, themed “Succeeding in a Changing Environment,” features speakers who will provide livestock farmers with information to persevere through challenging economic times and raise livestock responsibly and successfully.

Conference attendees will also get an update on the rules and regulations impacting livestock farms and hear about the importance of enhancing neighbor relations. Information shared at the conference will be essential for all farmers regardless of age, experience or commodity interest. 

Andy Curliss, CEO of the North Carolina Pork Council, will begin the day by taking attendees through his experience dealing with nuisance lawsuits in North Carolina and will offer information and advice on how to protect your livelihood on the farm. 

Rules, regulations impact farmers 

Other industry experts include Eldon McAfee with the Brick Gentry Law Firm in Des Moines, who will offer insight into the rules and regulations impacting Iowa farmers today. Hannah Thompson-Weeman, a staff member of the Animal Agriculture Alliance, will discuss why it’s more important than ever for livestock farmers to continue to proactively enhance neighbor and community relations. Laurie Johns, communications consultant, will provide tips on how to effectively communicate with neighbors and community members when growing your livestock farm. 

There will also be two expert panels. One is comprised of industry professionals who will discuss how they have evolved to meet Iowa’s changing regulatory environment and their strategies for Iowa’s livestock farmers to succeed. Examples include reaching out to neighbors and community members for support, planting trees around new livestock buildings and becoming more involved their local community. 

The second panel is livestock farmers who will share approaches they’ve used to grow their farm and discuss how they have evolved throughout the years to stay on the farm. Whether dealing with low commodity prices, unpredictable weather or increased regulations, these farmers remained committed to achieving their goals. 

Networking with other producers 

“This year’s Farming for the Future Conference is designed to provide Iowa’s livestock farmers the tools necessary to not only remain on the farm, but to grow their livestock farm successfully and responsibly,” said Brian Waddingham, executive director of CSIF. “Sometimes it’s beneficial to take a step back, look at issues from a new perspective and network with other farmers and professionals. This year’s conference will provide that opportunity for all of Iowa’s crop and livestock farmers.” 

Registration is free if completed by Jan. 13 and includes a complimentary lunch. For registrations after Jan. 13, a $20 fee will be charged. For more information about the conference and to register, visit supportfarmers.com/future or call 800-932-2436. Space is limited. 

Source: CSIF, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.