News Release

The Missouri Governor's Conference on Agriculture is returning to Kansas City Jan. 16-18, 2014, and registration is now available online at mda.mo.gov. The 44th Governor's Conference on Agriculture will be held at the Westin Crown Center in Kansas City and is themed ‘Generations of Progress & Promise.' The event will feature seminars and in-depth discussions on key issues in agriculture, including technology, advocacy and youth involvement and conclude with a celebration of agriculture led by Governor Jay Nixon.

"The Governor's Conference on Agriculture is a long-standing tradition for leaders among Missouri's producers, agribusinesses and youth to come together to focus on the opportunities and challenges ahead and to learn from national and international policy leaders," said Missouri Department of Agriculture Acting Director Harry D. Bozoian. "We are excited to bring this outstanding event back to Kansas City and look forward to seeing the innovation and dedication of Missouri agriculture applied to the issues key to our long-term success."

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

Sessions include a panel discussion among Missouri's agricultural commodity leaders, an Agriculture Issues Update led by a team from Shook, Hardy and Bacon, LLP, and seminars on energy, research and technology, and highlighting successes and opportunities for youth in agriculture. The Governor's Conference on Agriculture will also include a session titled "The Growth of a Missouri Wine Culture," featuring Doug Frost, a Master Sommelier and Master of Wine - one of only three people in the world to hold such distinctions.

Tony Clayton, of Clayton AgriMarketing, will lead the Friday evening BBQ and auction to benefit youth in agriculture, and the event culminates Sat., Jan. 18 with an awards banquet and entertainment by award-winning country music star John Michael Montgomery.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with Missouri producers and small business owners during the opening Taste of AgriMissouri reception. The traditional reception, held Thurs., Jan. 16, 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, mda.mo.gov, and through the social media hashtag #MoAgGovCon. The event is funded through sponsorships and registrations.

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