Navigating the Turbulence…Our Water, the World Economy and the Outlook for Major Commodities is the theme of the 2012 Spring Ag Outlook Conference presented by the California Chapter of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) March 28-30 in Visalia.

This year’s conference will span three days and will include a Water and Agriculture Education Tour on March 28th, the Spring Ag Outlook Conference on March 29 and a seminar targeted to Farm Managers and Agricultural Consultants on March 30. The release of the widely acclaimed Trends in Agricultural Land and Lease Values publication will also take place at the March event, providing recent and historical land value figures as well as editorial content for California and Nevada.

The 2012 Outlook Conference is pleased to welcome Dr. Christopher Thornberg, founding partner of Beacon Economics, as this year’s keynote speaker. Dr. Thornberg is widely considered to be one of California’s leading economic forecasters and will present the economic outlook for the year ahead. He will be joined by a full day of industry experts speaking on topics ranging from California’s water supply and rural land values to the outlook for nuts, tree fruit, dairy and wine grapes.

“We are looking forward to offering an informative and educational conference this year in Visalia,” said conference chair John Maus, ARA. “Our presenters for all three days are truly exceptional.  They are tuned into the environmental and economic challenges – and opportunities – facing agriculture today.  Attendees will walk away better informed in a wide range of areas.”  

The conference, agriculture tour and seminar are open to the public and registration is separate for each day. For complete details, on-line registration and to download the conference brochure, visit www.calasfmra.com.

The Spring Ag Outlook Conference will be held at the Marriott Visalia at the Convention Center, 300 South Court Street, Visalia. Pre-registration is requested and special group rates are available at the Marriott for conference attendees. Complete details and registration information can be found at www.calasfmra.com or from the California Chapter, ASFMRA at (209) 368-2672. The early registration deadline is March 15 to avoid late fees.