Regional agriculture producers flocked to AgOutlook 2010 event in Sioux Falls

SIOUX FALLS - More than 650 producers from the tri-state area attended the AgOutlook Trade Show and Conference last week in Sioux Falls. The event included educational sessions covering the latest buzz in agriculture with emphasis on how the world of agriculture is changing and how farmers can adjust to the constant changes while struggling with worldwide economic volatility.

Three keynote speakers highlighted the educational portion of the event. Don Reynolds, a real world analyst and futurist shared his insight on the economic roller coaster our nation is experiencing right now. Al Ambrose, CHS Vice President, Risk Management for Oilseed Processing discussed the challenges facing production agriculture today when trying to meet the burgeoning demand for food, fuel and fiber. Experienced ag analyst, Bob Utterback, discussed the volatility of the last two years stressing that marketing is a constant learning process. "All the speakers provided producers with exciting and stimulating discussions on the economic future of agriculture," said Ervin Krutzfeldt, President of the South Dakota Soybean Association (SDSA).

Attendees milled through the trade show area that featured over 75 exhibitors showcasing their products to producers. A new feature this year was a display of some of the new uses of soy including a soy foam sofa that participants could sit on, a soy-backed carpet and a Ford Mustang seat. The display was sponsored by the South Dakota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (SDSRPC) and United Soybean Board.

AgOutlook is an opportunity for area agricultural commodity and livestock producers to look ahead and find ways to meet the demands of the future, according to Krutzfeldt. "Despite the snow storm that moved through the area the day before our event, producers made an effort to attend AgOutlook because they know this is an event that gives them insight on how to plan for the future," said Krutzfeldt.

SDSA, with support from Ag Processing Inc, is sponsoring a membership promotion this winter. Anyone who joined SDSA before the AgOutlook Tradeshow Social was offered a chance to win a $500 Visa Gift Card. Elk Point farmer, Richard Fennel's name was drawn. The promotion continues through February when a second drawing for a $500 Visa Gift Card will be held.

Ag Outlook 2010 was sponsored by the SDSA, SDSRPC and ASGROW. Event co-sponsors included the Tri-State Neighbor and radio stations KWAT and WNAX. Next year's Ag Outlook event will be held December 9, 2010, in Sioux Falls at the Ramkota Exhibit Hall. For additional information, on next year's Ag Outlook visit www.sdsoybean.org or contact the SDSA office at(605) 330-0278.

Tags: south dakota, sioux falls, south dakota soybean association, agoutlook, daily updates