News Release

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) - The 45^th Governor's Conference on Agriculture is set for December 18-20, 2014, at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, Mo., and registration is now available online at agriculture.mo.gov. This year's theme is 'Focus on Missouri Agriculture.' This gathering provides a platform for ag leaders and innovators to focus on enhancing Missouri agriculture through development of forward-thinking ideas, discussions on current issues and promotion of Missouri's number one industry.

Director of Agriculture Richard Fordyce will serve as keynote speaker, and will be joined by special guest Orion Samuelson, legendary WGN radio broadcaster.

"The benefits of gathering together as an industry each year to discuss current and upcoming opportunities and challenges are numerous," said Fordyce. "The Governor's Conference on Agriculture is a long-standing tradition for leaders among Missouri's producers, agribusinesses and youth to collaboratively learn and share ideas that will propel Missouri agriculture forward."

The conference program will include nationally-recognized speakers, in-depth discussions and an agriculture tradeshow, all led by emcee Tom Brand of the National Association of Farm Broadcasters.

Sessions include a "State of the Industry" panel discussion among Missouri's agricultural commodity leaders, a national farm broadcasters panel, "Cover Crop Opportunities in Missouri," "GrowSafe- A New Vision of Beef Production & Technology" and "A Bird's Eye View- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles." Saturday afternoon's activities will be an opportunity to spotlight youth, and will highlight some of the outstanding young people making a difference in Missouri agriculture. Back by popular demand, a special wine experience and presentation featuring Doug Frost, a Master Sommelier and Master of Wine will take place on Friday.

Friday evening will include dinner and an auction. The event culminates Sat., Dec. 20 with an awards banquet and entertainment by country music group Sawyer Brown.

New this year, Missouri Agriculture Awards will be presented to recognize those that stand out for their commitment to innovation, giving back to their communities, committing to good land stewardship and being a great example for future generations. These awards will be given out throughout the conference.

The Taste of AgriMissouri reception gives attendees the opportunity to connect with Missouri producers and small business owners. The Thursday evening reception will feature the finest products Missouri agriculture has to offer, including foods and beverages from Missouri's agricultural organizations, wineries and other AgriMissouri member companies.

The conference is open to the public; however registration is required for most events. Conference information is available on the Department's website, agriculture.mo.gov, and through the social media hashtag #FocusonMOAg. The event is funded through sponsorships and registrations.

For more information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit agriculture.mo.gov.

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Note: Members of the media planning to cover the Missouri Governor's Conference on Agriculture in Osage Beach should contact Sarah Alsager at Sarah.Alsager@mda.mo.gov for additional information and media registration.