“Agricultural
Technology, Biotechnology and the Environment” is the theme for
the 2003 Texas Plant Protection Conference, scheduled for December 2-3,
at the Hilton Inn & Conference Center in College Station. This conference
provides all involved in crop production the opportunity to learn the
latest information on new crop protection products, new technology,
scientific advances and trends.
This year’s conference opening session includes addresses by Dr.
Mack Gray, Undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Washington,
John Barrett, a leading farmer from Mathis, Texas, Virgil Robinson,
a Senior Marketing Analyst with Pioneer Hi-Bred and Jarred Karnel, a
Crop Systems Specialist with John Deere.
In addition, the opening session will feature a talk by Dr. Norman Borlaug,
a Nobel Peace Prize Winner for his work with the Green Revolution. His
work is credited with saving millions from starvation around the world.
He is a supporter of new technology including biotechnology. He believes
that without high-yielding crops and more efficient farming methods,
that we would have to plow under millions of acres of woodlands—at
a great cost to plants and wildlife.
This year’s conference also includes a special section co-sponsored
by the Texas Association of Agricultural Consultants (TAAC) and the
Texas Plant Protection Association (TPPA). This session features a panel
of leaders in Industry, Extension, University, Government and Consultants
that will share information on “The Big Changes in Agriculture—How
does it effect me?”
The balance of the agenda includes over 50 presentations by agricultural
research scientists profiling their latest findings. These presentations
feature the most up-to-date information in Texas crop production. Program
topics are divided into sections: Cotton, Grains, Water Management /
Fertility, New Chemistry and Minor Use Pesticides, Pasture and Rangeland
and Mycotoxins; and are presented by recognized experts in their respective
fields.
Over 25 agribusinesses will help sponsor the conference and will have
displays where you can get information on their products and services.
CEU’s are offered during the conference for Texas Department of
Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Applicator License. Also Certified
Crop Advisers can get up to 12 CEU’s.
For more information, contact Bob Sasser, Executive Director, at
(936) 539-2349. Additional information and registration materials are
also available by e-mail at TPPA@txucom.net
