Editorial

AGRICULTURE DESERVES OPPORTUNITY IN SPOTLIGHT

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Cape Girardeau will host the largest agriculture-oriented show between Memphis and St. Louis next week. The third annual "New Trends in Agriculture" program July 17-18 will draw 500 participants from throughout the region.

Most of the programs will be geared to those directly employed in agriculture. But some topics will appeal to the general public as well. The keynote luncheon speaker on July 17 will be Assistant U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Bruce Gardner, who will discuss the nation's current agriculture policy. On July 18, Thomas Hoogheem, manager of environmental issues for Monsanto Agriculture Co. in St. Louis will talk about the use of agricultural pesticides.

More than 70 exhibitors will also display their wares, and the booths are open to the public without charge. The seminars carry a nominal fee, as do the luncheons.

This year's program is chocked full of experts and ideas. It should provide a host of ideas for farmers to increase productivity. Swine and dairy lectures were also added this year as a way to broaden the program.

Although this marks the third year for "New Trends," the forum combined several long-standing agricultural programs including the Chamber of Commerce's agricultural appreciation dinner, SEMO Cattlemen's conference, and New Trends in Agronomy.

The secret to the program's success is the fact farmers have been actively involved in picking the topics. A committee polls participants, who suggest ideas for the following year's program. The University of Missouri Extension Service then works hard to bring in experts in the various fields. This year, speakers will come from seven states.

In addition to the learning experience, the program provides a chance to recognize the hard work that has been done. Several awards will be given, including Friend of Agriculture, Agri-business Award, and two new honors: Stockman and Farmer of the Year.

Besides the Extension Service, sponsors include the Chamber of Commerce, Southeast Missouri State University, SEMO Cattlemen's Association and the Cape County Pork Producers. Dozens of area businesses also assisting with the event.

Agriculture plays an important role in the region's economy. Cape Girardeau County alone has $600 million in crop and livestock production annually.

This is a chance for agriculture to take its spot in the limelight, and for farmers to learn about new trends to make their operations more productive. The program is a credit to the volunteers who plan it and the farmers who make it a success.