Pennsylvania agricultural producers will have an opportunity to share their perspective of what changes should take place in the 2007 Farm Bill—as well as which conservation-related practices should be funded by the state—at 11 listening sessions scheduled across the state.

These sessions are designed to help producers discuss conservation-related issues as well as their relevance in Pennsylvania.

The object is to help U.S. officials involved with the 2007 Farm Bill to better understand which conservation tools it should include.

Meanwhile, Pennsylvania officials will learn which Best Management Practices are most preferred by the state’s producers.

Agronomist Michael Brubaker will facilitate the listening sessions. Snacks and beverages will be available.

Except where noted, meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. The schedule of sessions is:

· September 12: Lebanon Valley Expo Center.

· September 15: York County Extension Pleasant Acres Complex.

· September 21: Chambersburg – Kauffman Community Center.

· September 26: Bedford – Arena Restaurant on Route. 220.

· September 28: Quarryville – Hoffman Building.

· September 29: Lewisburg – Best Western Country Cupboard Inn on Route 15.

· October 10: Towanda Country Club on Route 6.

· October 17: Mill Hall, Centre County

· October 21: West Middlesex, Mercer County

· October 25: Doylestown, Delaware Valley College. Note: This listening session meets at 6 p.m.

· November 1: Lancaster Farm & Home Center.

More than 30 organizations and companies are supporting this outreach effort.

To RSVP, call 717-627-7119 or visit the Farm Listen webpage. www.farmlisten.com . Changes in the schedule will also be posted on the website.

For information, contact Michael Brubaker at mailto:mike@mwbrubaker.com or 717-627-0440.

(From the September Chesapeake Bay Journal.)

9/9/2005