By Agri-Pulse Staff
© Copyright Agri-Pulse Communications, Inc.
WASHINGTON, March 24 – What's the future for U.S. agricultural conservation policy in the face of tight budgets, competing interests, rapid technological change and private sector innovations? That key question will be debated at the National Agricultural Landscapes Forum April 7-8 at the Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC.
Capitol Hill, state and federal agency staff, local government and Tribal officials, agriculture and conservation organizations, farmers and ranchers, and others concerned about the future of the nation’s agricultural landscape will be participating in this two-day policy discussion hosted by USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, American Farmland Trust, and Farm Foundation NFP. Sponsors include Altria Group, CropLife America, DuPont, the National Association of Conservation Districts, and The Nature Conservancy.
A Blue Ribbon Panel of authorities in agriculture and conservation – farmers, former state secretaries of agriculture, government officials and other conservation leaders – will help guide the discussion and provide thought-provoking insights. Regional Roundtables held in advance of the Forum by Farm Foundation NFP are bringing diverse “on-the-ground” perspectives to inform Forum discussions.
“The goal of Forum is to provide a venue for key stakeholders to engage in honest dialogue about priorities for USDA’s national conservation program and the future of the agricultural landscape given multiple, often competing, demands on our land and water resources to produce everything from food, shelter and domestic energy, to economic development and ecosystem services,” said Julia Freedgood, managing director of Farmland and Community Initiatives for American Farmland Trust.
There is no charge to attend the National Agricultural Landscapes Forum, but participation is limited and pre-registration is required by March 31. For program details or to register, click HERE.
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