EX-AG HEAD PETER MYERS TO SPEAK AT FARM EVENT

JACKSON -- Peter C. Myers, former deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and soil conservation chief, will be guest speaker at the "New Trends in Crop Production" program to be held Feb. 24 at the Knights of Columbus Hall near Jackson.

Myers will update farmers on legislative issues.

"Farmers need to become pro-active and speak up for themselves on legislation," said Myers. "If they don't, someone will do it for them. Governmental regulations and laws are become more commonplace and influencing how and where you farm," he said.

Other speakers during the day include:

-- Frank Wideman of Perryville, University of Missouri Extension Services agriculture engineer, who will discuss pesticide records, worker protection rules and pesticide handling.

-- Andy Kendig, Extension weed control specialist at the University of Missouri Delta Center at Portageville, who will speak on new herbicides and regulations.

-- Ken Kephart, Extension small-grain specialist at the University of Missouri-Columbia, who will discuss no-till wheat and wheat management.

-- Sam McNeil, agriculture engineer with the University of Kentucky, who will discuss grain drying, handling and storage.

-- Bill Wiebold, state specialist at the University of Missouri-Columbia, who will discuss corn production.

Those attending the program will see more than 25 agricultural industry exhibits -- chemicals, sprayers, buildings, seeds, tillage equipment, and other farm supplies.

The program is open to everyone, but preregistration is required by Tuesday.

Cost is $5 for lunch and the program. Additional information is available by calling 243-3581.