The Colorado Agriculture Big & Small Conference offers something for all landowners wrestling with current land-use issues. The conference will provide valuable research-based information along with an invaluable network of experience for large or small agricultural producers, traditional or organic growers, hobby farmers, owners of small acreage for leisure pasturing, or merely for landscape enjoyment.
This year’s Colorado Agriculture Big and Small conference will be held Feb. 20-23 at Island Grove Park in the 4-H Building in Greeley. This annual conference will host between 250-300 attendees. This year’s agenda includes continues the organic and produce sessions and combined sessions crossing all livestock and crop producers. An additional day for small acreage ownership issues has been added to the conference to address specific pasture management, weed management, windbreaks, working with wildlife and veterinary care issues.
“Rural areas lead the country out of recession,” said Dawn Thilmany, Colorado State University Professor and Extension Specialist in agricultural economics specializing in entrepreneurship education and strategic community resource development. “This conference is focused on community and rural development beyond building capital.”
There are 17 states and parts of Mexico that depend on Colorado water. Dick Wolfe, Colorado Division of Water Resources, State Engineer will offer explanations and directions regarding Colorado’s water during the conference.
The conference has a history of peers learning from peers. Juan Velez, owner of Aurora Organic Dairy, will speak about animal welfare and veterinary practices in organic production. Velez will present a complete model of diet and nutrition factors and their affect on animal health.
“The goal is to help these producers be successful,” said Adrian Card, Boulder County Extension agent.
The entrepreneurship of these people is the engine for many of these communities. |
