By Julie Tomascik
Editor

An overview of trending agricultural topics will be the focus of Texas Farm Bureau’s Summer Conference set for June 16-18 in Round Rock.

“This conference provides valuable information to help farmers and ranchers make informed decisions and navigate some of the challenges we’re facing today,” TFB President Russell Boening said. “It’s a chance to connect with fellow farmers and ranchers, discuss current challenges and learn from industry experts.”

Featured topics and speakers
This year’s conference will cover issues affecting Texas farmers and ranchers at both the state and national levels.

Breakout sessions will include an update on livestock markets from CattleFax, as well as a look at livestock health programs and disease response strategies from the Texas Animal Health Commission. Artificial intelligence in agriculture and crop issues will also be covered.

Additional presentations will include legal issues in agriculture with Tiffany Dowell Lashmet, a professor and extension specialist in agricultural law, and an update on trade and the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by Kevin Brady, former Texas congressman and chairman of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee.

Farmers continue to bear the brunt of the economic downturn. A presentation by economist Dr. John Newton with Terrain will cover a market outlook and the Farm Credit system.

Forces shaping the future of food and farming, including President Donald Trump’s policy positions on agriculture, will be the focus of a presentation from Andy Curliss, vice president of strategic engagement for the National Pork Producers Association.

TFB’s state legislative staff will provide a recap of the 89th legislative regular session, which concludes in early June.

Succession planning for farmers and ranchers is important, but it’s also complicated. Dr. Jason Johnson, an economist and fifth-generation farmer, will cover details related to the farm transition planning process.

“We have a packed agenda with a lot of good content and topics to cover,” Boening said. “This conference is a great opportunity for members to stay informed, ask questions and be part of conversations that impact the future of agriculture in Texas.”

TFB’s Commodity Advisory Committees also will meet during the conference to discuss current agricultural issues and possible solutions.

Registration details
Registration for the conference begins at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 16. The commodity and issues sessions will be held that afternoon, followed by a dinner for county presidents.

Tuesday, June 17, will be an all-day event with a group lunch, and the conference will wrap up Wednesday, June 18.

Click here for a tentative agenda.

Register for the conference through the MyTFB Membership Portal at my.texasfarmbureau.org.

The deadline for room reservations is May 13, and rooms must be cancelled by June 14 to avoid cancellation penalties.

Contact Betsy Simon at bsimon@txfb.org or 254-751-2624 with questions about reservations.