Wheat farmers will be heading to mid-Michigan for this year’s annual Winter Grower Meeting put on by the Michigan Wheat Program. The daylong program will be 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 21 at the Eagle Eye Golf Club, 15500 Chandler Road in Bath Township.

Much of the day’s programming reflects the top priority of the MWP: Sponsoring research to improve yield, quality and profitability for farmers growing red and white winter wheat in Michigan.

For several years it has been true that Michigan-grown wheat presents strong marketing advantages for the state’s wheat farmers. But before planting more wheat, farmers want to see higher yields, fewer quality risks and greater profitability from the crop.

Peter Johnson, formerly the cereal specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture & Food Ontario, will again be the featured speaker. Johnson’s presentations will highlight his wheat research and his knowledge of high-management wheat production.

Also on the agenda is a panel discussion consisting of growers Mike Milligan and Jeff Krohn, who traveled to Europe to learn about its wheat production practices and how it achieves high yields. The panel will be moderated by MSU wheat specialist Dennis Pennington, who traveled with them.

Again this year, the meeting will feature a trade show of companies and organizations that support the Michigan wheat industry. The show will be open in the morning during registration, at the continental breakfast from 8:15 to 9 a.m., and during the morning break and lunch.

Interested exhibitors should contact the Michigan Wheat Program for more information.

There is no cost to attend the program, although advance registration is required to ensure meal counts, handouts and seating.

The registration form and full agenda are at miwheat.org under “What’s Hot.” Farmers may also call the office at 888-943-2801 for more information.

Source: MWP