‘Farming for the Future’ Expert Videos Available for Download

02-23-2015 in Farming for the Future Conference

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – February 23, 2015 – Livestock farmers who missed the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers’ (CSIF) successful Farming for the Future conference in January can now view the various segments via video at www.supportfarmers.com/video. Each segment includes experts who can help Iowa’s livestock and poultry farmers manage changes to their farms.

More than 180 livestock farmers attended the Farming for the Future conference held January 23 in Ames and featured experts like Dr. David Kohl, professor emeritus at Virginia Tech. who said, “The livestock industry is hotter than a pepper sprout, but to enjoy sustained success in livestock, farmers need to be resilient and agile.”

Other experts discussed global economics of the agricultural industry and risk mitigation to financial feasibility and obtaining financing for new livestock projects. The videos highlight several emerging opportunities in the state’s livestock industry including the panel of Iowa farmers and industry representatives who shared innovative things they are doing to increase the viability of their farm, such as raising fish, contract pork production and partnering with a feed company to assist with record keeping and marketing.

“The Coalition received a record number of inquiries from livestock farmers over the past year – many from young people wanting to get into farming, but weren’t sure what opportunity was right for them or how to secure financing to make their dream of farming a reality,” said Brian Waddingham, executive director of CSIF. “The videos from this year’s Farming for the Future Conference will provide insight to help Iowa’s livestock farmers succeed in the long-run.”

“There are unlimited opportunities in the Iowa livestock industry, but farmers have to have a plan for growth,” says Waddingham. “The first step for farm families looking to grow the farm, or young people returning to the farm, is identifying the right business opportunity for their family. That’s where the Coalition can help – we go out and meet with the family, actually sit down with them to understand where they are today and where they want to be in the future. Then our job is to help them get there.”

The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created by farmers for farmers to help them raise livestock successfully and responsibly. It’s a joint partnership involving the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy Association.

Assistance is provided to Iowa farmers at no cost. CSIF does not lobby or develop policy. Farm families wanting a helping hand can contact the Coalition at 1-800-932-2436 or www.supportfarmers.com.

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