A few weeks ago I shared some thoughts with you regarding what I learned from an animal welfare conference.  We have an opportunity to hear more in at a much closer location-Sutton Community Center in Sutton-on March 12^th at 6:00 p.m.  Dewey Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator will be presenting on “Protecting Nebraska Agriculture” following a meal sponsored by the Sutton Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee as well as area Cattlemen Associations, Breeders & Feeders, and Ag Producer groups.  Anyone interested is invited to attend-and I would encourage anyone who possibly can to attend.  This topic not only affects livestock producers, it affects crop producers, and consumers as well.  It’s very important to understand how various interest groups are attacking animal agriculture and why and how we in rural America can share our stories.  Please pre-register by contacting Tory Duncan at (402) 773-5576 or ccntory@gmail.com or Todd Mau at (402) 773-5224 or todd@toddstrailers.com.

Another opportunity for learning more about family farm transition is with the last Farmers/Ranchers College program this year.  It will be March 15 in Friend at the San Carlos Community Room (next to the Pour House) with meal beginning at 6:00 p.m. (Registration at 5:30 p.m.)  The program entitled “Discussing the Undiscussabull” will be presented by Elaine Froese from Manitoba, Canada.  Froese’s expertise in helping families get unstuck is sought after across the country. She has worked with families in business for over 20 years and is now coaching the next generation. Elaine believes that change is an opportunity, not a threat…she has practical tools to help people discuss the “undiscussabull” to make their dreams come true. In order to save your spot and reserve a meal, registration is needed by calling the Fillmore County Extension office at (402) 759-3712.  The Farmers & Ranchers College is sponsored by area agribusiness, commodity groups in collaboration with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension.