Returning next generation to farm is CSIF conference focus

The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers will be hosting its eleventh annual Farming for the Future Conference on Jan. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Quality Inn and Suites in Ames.

The “Bringing the Next Generation Back to the Farm” conference has a dynamic lineup of speakers who will help new and beginning livestock farmers understand the financial programs available to them, provide tips on securing the right lender, provide insight on how to develop a business plan and build an advisory team, and provide considerations for transitioning back to the family farm.

Mike Pearson, host of Iowa Public Television’s Market to Market, will kick off the event by providing an outlook for farm markets and the global trends impacting these markets and offer strategies for long-term success on the farm.

Other industry experts include Dave Baker with the Iowa State University Beginning Farmer Center, who will offer insight into ways to transition back to the family farm; Brian Gossling with the Iowa Farm Service Agency, who will explain how the lending process works for new livestock projects; Steve Ferguson with the Iowa Finance Authority, who will talk about the Beginning Farm Loan Program; Jayme Ungs with U.S Bank, who will explain what to look for in a lender and what lenders look for in a client; and Amanda Van Steenwyk with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation who will discuss business plan development and how to successfully build your advisory team.

“The Coalition received a record number of inquiries from livestock farmers over the past year – many from young people wanting to get into farming, but weren’t sure what opportunity was right for them or how to secure financing to make their dream of farming a reality,” said Brian Waddingham, CSIF executive director. “This year’s Farming for the Future Conference will provide insight to help Iowa’s new and beginning livestock farmers understand the programs that are available to them and how to succeed in the long-run.”

Registration, including a complimentary lunch, is free if completed by Jan. 15. A $20 fee will be charged for registrations after Jan. 15. For more information about the conference and to register, visit www.supportfarmers.com/conference or call 1-800-932-2436. Space is limited.

The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created by farmers to help farmers raise livestock successfully and responsibly. It’s a joint partnership involving the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Egg Council, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy Association.

The non-profit, non-partisan organization provides assistance to farmers at no cost. CSIF does not lobby or develop policy. Farm families wanting a helping hand can contact the coalition at (800) 932-2436.

Source: IowaPork