Two conferences designed to explore the opportunities and alternatives available to landowners with expiring Conservation Reserve Program contracts have been scheduled in Amarillo and Lubbock.

“After CRP: Wildlife, Farming and Grazing” conferences, sponsored by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, will run from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. on June 17 and June 18, said Ken Cearley, AgriLife Extension wildlife specialist in Canyon.

The conferences will be alike, varying only by regional differences, he said. Each will offer three general continuing education units toward pesticide applicator re-certification.

The June 17 conference will be at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center-Amarillo, 6500 W. Amarillo Blvd. The June 18 conference will be at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center-Lubbock, 1102 E. F.M. 1294.

“If you're thinking about the future management of the land that you currently have under a CRP contract, or you are starting to consider various alternatives and would like to know what others exist, these conferences will provide some answers,” Cearley said.

They both will address: compliance issues, cost-assistance programs, land management and economics with wildlife in mind, the economics of farming and grazing alternatives, impacts on land value and the effect on future eligibility for federal farm programs.

In addition to CRP contract holders, those contemplating or involved in buying or selling CRP land, agency personnel, educators and others with an interest in sound land management will likewise benefit from the program, Cearley said.

Conference partners include Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Registration will be $40 through June 12 and $50 at the door. Lunch, refreshments and conference materials will be provided with registration.

Participants may register online or by phone by calling 979-845-2604. For more information about this conference, contact Cearley at [email protected] or call 806-651-5760.