The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation Agricultural Division will host the 2009 Texoma Pasture Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, June 13, at the Convention Center in Ardmore.

Entitled “Pasture and Range Stability During Times of Economic Instability,” the conference focuses on answering key questions about managing pasture and rangeland in addition to reviewing resource use, during difficult financial times. Farmers and ranchers have been questioning every aspect of their operation in an effort to cut costs. They’re asking “Is fertilizing still cost effective?” “Are legumes a viable option?” and “How do I properly manage grazing practices to restore my ranch?”

Speakers for the conference will include Noble Foundation staff, and other pasture and range experts, including Rod Heitschmidt, Ph.D., a research leader and superintendent for the Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory, USDA-Agricultural Research Service; Richard Teague, Ph.D., associate resident director and professor, Texas AgriLIFE Research and Extension Center in Vernon, Texas; and Bob Woods, area extension agronomy specialist, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Northeast District. Heitschmidt and Teague have each authored numerous publications on rangeland management and land sustainability, and Woods has worked with numerous producers to implement proper rangeland mangement.

"I can't think of a better group of people with more experience on the topic," said James Rogers, Ph.D., pasture and range consultant, and Noble Foundation Agricultural Division team manager. "These are the highest caliber of speakers on this topic. This is an excellent opportunity to come and learn from the best in the country."

The event's schedule will include a wide array of sessions concerning pasture and rangeland management. The first session is presented by Hugh Aljoe, Noble Foundation consultation manager, on the difference in pastureland and rangeland, and how to use your resources.

Other sessions include Teague’s presentation on grazing management to restore and sustain ranch livelihoods. Noble Foundation consultants will present sessions on the fertilizer industry and the importance of nitrogen and phosphorus.

Registration is $20 and lunch is provided. To take advantage of this opportunity, register online at www.noble.org/agevents or contact Tracy Cumbie at [email protected] or 580.224.6411 for more information. There will also be a trade show provided by event sponsors throughout the conference.