Save the date for the 2011 Illinois Forage Institute
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URBANA - The Illinois Forage Institute will take place on Thursday, <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT70">March 24</span>, at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Agricultural Center near Simpson. The event will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude by 4 p.m.
"The educational program will focus on managing hayland and pastures," said Dale Baird, U of I Extension educator. "The program will also include commercial exhibits focusing on the forage industry."
Brett Roberts, Illinois State Conservation Agronomist with the USDA National Resources Conservation Service, will discuss "Fertility for Pastures and Hay Production." Richard Hungerford, Illinois State Resource Conservationist with the USDA National Resources Conservation Service, will present, "Selecting Forage Species." Ed Ballard, retired U of I Extension educator, will share thoughts on "Year-Round Grazing and Forage Economics."
U of I College of Veterinary Medicine's Clifford Shipley will start off the afternoon with a presentation titled, "Grazing Small Ruminants, Horses and Exotics." In addition, the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council (IFGC) will host the Illinois Forage Bowl, a youth competition quiz bowl, and the Forage Spokesperson Contest.
To register, contact the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council, P.O. Box 233, Greenville, IL 62246. The educational program is $15 per person for IFGC members and $20 per person for non-members. Pre-registration is due by <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT71">March 11</span>. The cost will increase to $20 and $25 respectively after <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT72">March 11</span> and at the door on <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT73">March 24</span>. Registration includes a noon meal and forage presentation handout materials.
For more information on the program agenda, go to <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT74">www.illinoisforage.org</span>. To set up a commercial exhibit, contact Dave Gentry at <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT75">309-557-6397</span> or <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT76">dgentry@growmark.com</span>.
This event is sponsored by IFGC and supported by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and U of I Extension.