Gov. Heineman Announces Line-Up for 2008 Governor’s Ag Conference

(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman provided a preview of the 2008 Governor’s Ag Conference, being held March 4 - 5 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Kearney, located at 110 2nd Ave. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Governor’s Ag Conference.

“The past year has been a very strong one for our agriculture industry, and I look forward to celebrating this milestone with the producers who’ve help move Nebraska forward,” Gov. Heineman said. “This conference is an opportunity for producers to come together for an update on topics impacting the future of agriculture in our state.”

Pre-conference activities will begin at 6 p.m. CT on Tuesday, March 4, with the “Celebrate Nebraska Agriculture” reception, featuring foods produced by Nebraska farmers and ranchers. The evening also will include entertainment from comedian Jerry Carroll. The conference will convene at 9 a.m. CT on Wednesday, March 5.

Speakers will include John Huston, an international beef advocate and former president of the National Livestock and Meat Board, discussing domestic marketing opportunities and consumer trends. Tim Vala, owner and operator of Vala’s Pumpkin Patch in Gretna, will highlight the growing opportunities available in agriculture, and Mike Krueger, founder and President of The Money Farm Radio Network, will discuss domestic and international markets and what the future holds for Nebraska agriculture. Anita Estes, a former Nebraska and National FFA officer, will talk about efforts to keep youth involved in agriculture.

Several members of the Governor’s Cabinet will also be featured, including: Ann Bleed, Director of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, will provide an update on current water issues in the state; Richard Baier, Director of the Department of Economic Development, will focus on new opportunities developing around the renewable fuels industry; and Mike Linder, Director of the Department of Environmental Quality, will talk about the importance of maintaining pristine environments within the agriculture industry. 

The conference is open to anyone interested in learning more about the issues facing Nebraska agriculture. A $50 registration fee covers participation at both the conference and the Tuesday evening reception.  Registration information is available online at http://www.agr.ne.gov. Those interested in attending can also make plans to participate by calling the Nebraska Department of Agriculture toll-free at 800-831-0550.