AgriLife Extension to host three crop conferences for northwest Panhandle producers

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is gearing up to host a series of annual Northwest Panhandle Crop Conferences designed specifically for producers in the region. Scheduled for Jan. 21 in Dumas, Jan. 28 in Stratford, and Feb. 4 in Dalhart, these events aim to equip attendees with valuable insights and knowledge relevant to their agricultural operations.

Running from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with registration commencing at 8 a.m., each conference is not only informative but also free of charge and includes a nourishing lunch. The venues for these events are well-distributed in the region, with the locations set as follows:

– Jan. 21: Moore County Community Building, 1600 S. Maddox Ave., Dumas.
– Jan. 28: Sherman County Exhibit Barn, 501 S. Maple St., Stratford.
– Feb. 4: Frank Phillips College, 2890 Farm-to-Market Road 281, Dalhart.

A diversified lineup of expert speakers will address a broad spectrum of topics affecting crop producers across the Panhandle. In Dumas, the agenda includes discussions on preplant to harvest management of cotton by Ken Lege, Ph.D., and market reflections on cotton and feed grains by DeDe Jones. Additionally, topics covering water management, organic crop production, soil health, and the impact of diseases on crops will be thoroughly covered by a panel of qualified speakers.

The conference in Stratford will feature experts such as Craig Bednarz, Ph.D., who will delve into preplant to harvest cotton management strategies, while Clay Robinson, Ph.D., will share insights on soil health and fertility for small grain production and cover crops. Moreover, discussions on market outlooks, water management, organic farming, and the prevalence of diseases in crops will be key highlights during this event.

Dalhart attendees can expect in-depth sessions covering various aspects of cotton management by Ken Lege, including discussions on market prospects by DeDe Jones and Kevin Heflin, Ph.D. Specialist speakers will cover areas such as organic crop production, soil health and fertility, and the impact of diseases on Panhandle crops, providing attendees with a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in the region.

Overall, these conferences promise to arm Northwest Panhandle producers with the knowledge, tools, and insights necessary to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the ever-evolving agricultural landscape. By bringing together industry experts and producers, these events strive to foster collaboration, education, and innovation within the agricultural community, ultimately contributing to the prosperity and sustainability of crop production in the region.