Southern Plains and Other 2009 Events

by Shan Ingram

It's hard to believe that 2009 is more than half gone and it's time for the 19th annual Southern Plains Beef Symposium. Each year, we work to improve the symposium, so each event brings a new standard and addresses new challenges.

This past year has brought many changes for producers, and we decided to change as well. Instead of simply analyzing how to do a better job of managing and producing beef, we felt that producers need better strategies to improve their businesses and their futures. We have a powerful program promising insight into the political, environmental and consumer attitudes affecting the industry, and we will also provide some timely production information. I think it will be one of our best symposiums and hope you will agree, attend and benefit.

The symposium will be at the Ardmore Convention Center on Saturday, Aug. 8. It is on the second Saturday in August as it has been since the beginning. The cost is $25 and includes a trade show with more than 40 vendors, good visitation with old and new friends, door prizes, an information-filled program and a prime rib lunch fit for a king. On top of that, participants will be inside, out of the elements and enjoying the comforts of air conditioning. What a deal! Review the agenda and plan to attend. Along with the changes, we've kept all the elements that attendees have told us they liked in the past.

2009 Southern Plains Beef Symposium
Beyond the Horizon: The Changing Environment Facing Today's Beef Industry

• Challenges Facing Agricultural and Animal Research - Billy Cook, Noble Foundation
• Beef Advocacy, You and the Media; Dispelling Myths and Sharing the Facts - Daren Williams, National Cattlemen's Beef Association
• Animal Welfare and Public Perceptions about American Agriculture - Ben Wileman, Kansas State University
• Market Outlook and Current Trends in Cattle Values - Tommy Beall, Beall Consulting
• Today's Cow Herd: Rearview Mirror and Windshield Perspectives - Dave Lalman, Oklahoma State University
• Emerging Political, Environmental and Social Issues Facing Beef Producers - Scott Dewald, Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association

What else is on the educational horizon for 2009? In late August or early September, we will host a fall herd health program focusing on vaccinating and processing calves, cow and bull health and nutrition, and cattle handling techniques. Watch our Web site for more information. The schedule below gives information about other programs we will hold through the end of 2009.

If you have questions, please call me. Hope I see you soon!