Cypress County to host fall conference for producers

By Anna Smith
Commentator/Courier

As part of an ongoing effort to help businesses connect more within the county, Cypress is getting ready to host their first conference for agriculture in the region.

The first Cypress County Ag Connections Conference presented by MNP will take place November 22, said the county in a press release.

“So this is a first time conference that is a direct result of feedback we received from our business community. And we are really excited to welcome producers from Cypress County and southeastern Alberta for a day of education, inspiration and networking,” said Beth Cash, Economic Development and Recreation Coordinator. 

The producer-focused event aims to support the growth, diversification, and sustainability of the agriculture industry in the region, through innovation and education. The event will feature over 15 ag-focused speakers discussing topics relevant to beef and crop producers.

“Part of our strategic direction from the Council is to support agriculture. So this fits into that really well,” said Cash. “Feedback we’ve been hearing from businesses is that they’re wanting more support and resources and networking opportunities. And with our large agriculture industry in the area, it seemed like a really great opportunity to support our primary producers in this way.”

Organization has gone really well, said Cash, as they look to arrange a series of different speakers that will interest a variety of producers, from grain farmers to cattle ranchers and beyond.

“Our morning sessions are going to be plenary sessions for everyone. So we have global farming, outlook innovation in ag, which is talking about drones,” said Cash. “And then we’ll have a panel discussion that will be all about innovation that’s happening right here in southeast Alberta. Lunch is going to be a keynote and then the afternoon sessions are all breakout sessions.”

Keynote speaker, farmer and mental health advocate Lesley Kelly will share ‘When Stress is more than a Season’. Other sessions include Smart Irrigation, Innovation in Ag: Drones, The First 48 Hours of a Calves’ Life, In-Bin Grain Storage & Management, Farm Direct Marketing, Farm Financials, Forage Blends for Southern Alberta, Trends in Ag Technology, 2024 Global Farming Outlook, and more.

“Cypress County understands and appreciates the importance of agriculture in our region,” says Reeve Dan Hamilton. “We want to ensure this industry is viable and sustainable for many years and we see this event as the opportunity to support our farmers and ranchers while connecting them with ag-based businesses in the region.”

More details will come closer to the event, with registration starting on Friday, Sept. 1 and will be possible through the website or the county office.

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