Annual Outlook Forum Examines Alternative Energy, New Sources for Profit in Agriculture

The annual Agricultural Outlook Forum will provide agriculturalists with opportunities to explore alternative sources for profit, energy production and agriculture-related entertainment. The forum, "New Realities, New Opportunities," is from 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at the Renaissance Denver Hotel, 3801 Quebec St.

State and national experts will discuss topics such as alternative energy development, agritainment such as corn mazes, non-traditional profit opportunities around organic farming, direct consumer marketing, value-added commodities, niche markets, and fishing and hunting leases. In addition, experts will provide perspective on how the future of Colorado agriculture will be impacted by international competition.

Afternoon breakout sessions will include topics on consumer marketing, agritourism, organic production, energy and a legislative update. Morning speakers include syndicated agricultural broadcaster and columnist Ken Root and Mike Pacheco, director of the National BioEnergy Center in Golden. J.B. Penn, U.S. Department of Agriculture undersecretary of Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, also has been invited.

     The forum will be preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22. Early registration is $90 if received by Feb. 10. Late registration and registration at the door is $115. For more information or to register online, visit the Web at www.ag.state.co.us or call (303) 239-4100. Registration also is available at the event.

The annual forum is sponsored by Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, the Colorado Department of Agriculture and the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Associates.

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