Byron Richard, Belfield, N.D., was one of 10 wheat growers who recently completed the 2007 Wheat Industry Leaders of Tomorrow program in St. Louis.

The six-day program was planned especially for producers who are interested in becoming more involved – or involved for the first time – in their state wheat grower associations.

Sessions focused on personal skill identification and development, media training, farm and food policy and pending farm legislation. Additionally, the group got an extensive tour of Monsanto's biotechnology research centers and labs.

Participants also had time to get to know their fellow grower-leaders, many of whom they will be working with on the NAWG Board of Directors in the future.

"WILOT really is an excellent program for growers who want to become more involved in wheat industry leadership," says John Thaemert, NAWG president and former WILOT participant. "We always need new talent in our industry, and this program provides extensive preparation for our up-and-comers."

WILOT is a program of the National Association of Wheat Growers Foundation and sponsored by Monsanto. In addition to Richard, the 2007 WILOT participants included Jerry Cooksey, Roggen, Colo.; Matt Gellings, Idaho Falls, Idaho; Gayla Moeckel, Plevna, Kan.; Edwin Moore, Red Springs, N.C.; Shannon Rust, Echo, Ore.; Mike Schulte, Oklahoma City, Okla.; Bing Von Bergen, Moccasin, Mont.; Erik Younggren, Hallock, Minn.; Holly Yocum, NAWG staff, Washington, D.C.

Source: ND Grain Growers Association.