December 14, 2007

Fuel production developments are having a profound impact on Nebraska agriculture and rural economies. It's safe to say that anyone involved in Nebraska agriculture is affected by the bio-fuels industry. While commodity prices have increased, so have production input prices. To help prepare our agricultural producers for these new production dynamics, the 2008 Hamilton County Ag Day will focus on the ins and outs of producing crops to fuel our futureAg Day will be January 17 in the Farr Building at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds in Aurora. The day will begin with coffee and rolls at 8:30 a.m. and conclude with door prizes at 3:30 p.m.

Speakers will include:

• Don Hutchens, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board on "Ethanol Industry Developments;"
• Loren Isom, technical coordinator for the UNL Industrial Ag Products Center on "Biodiesel Production and Industry Development;"
• John Hay, extension educator, who will "Bust some Ethanol Myths:"
• Bill Booker, extension educator, on "Alternative Crops for Biodiesel Feedstock;"
• Rob Mitchell, USDA-ARS rangeland scientist on "Switchgrass Feasibility for Cellulosic Ethanol Production;"
• Brent Plugge, extension educator on "Distiller Grains Storage and Utilization;"
• Brad Lubben, UNL Assistant Professor in Ag Economics, on the 2008 Farm Bill;
• Dan Leininger, water conservationist with the Upper Big Blue NRD, on Nebraska water issues and
• Extension educators and producer Brandon Hunnicut will discuss the 2007 Quad County Research and Nebraska Ag Water Management and Demonstration Network results.

The show also will include exhibits from agricultural businesses and organizations. Certified Crop Advisor Credits will be available. Lunch is being provided by the Aurora Co-op.

For more information about Ag Day contact the UNL Extension Office in Hamilton County at 402-694-6174.

Jim Schneider
UNL Extension Educator