ag-formation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 6, 2002

Managing Production and Financial Risks of Specialty Crops Seminar

COLUMBIA---All specialty crop producers and those interested in developing specialty crops are invited to attend a producer information seminar on November 15 and 16, 2002, during the WIFE (Women Involved in Farm Economics) Association national convention in Columbia. The meeting and convention will be held at the Clarion Town House Hotel Convention Center on 1615 Gervais Street in Columbia.

The seminar begins on Friday, November 15, with Robert Wilkins of the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA). His presentation, from 9:45 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., details the risks associated with the production of specialty crops. The RMA administers the nation’s crop insurance program that helps farmers survive a major crop loss. About two-thirds of the acreage planted to major U.S. crops is insured, and more than 76 crops and many of their varieties are insurable. Crop insurance is also available on a growing number of specialty crops.

As a cooperative effort, RMA and WIFE support this risk management education initiative. With partners like WIFE, RMA works to find improved risk management strategies, develop educational curricula and materials, and train producers in effective use of risk management tools.

On Saturday, November 16 from 8:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., Powell Smith of Clemson University Extension Service will speak on managing production and the financial risks involved in producing specialty crops. Smith specializes in horticulture, commercial vegetable crops, and integrated pest management. As part of the land grant college, Clemson University, the Extension Service focuses on areas related to: Community Development, Family Consumer Sciences, Field Crops, Forestry, Commercial and Urban Horticulture , Livestock, Wildlife, Youth, and Other Departments.

For more information, contact Tammy Smith, SC WIFE President and State Convention Organizer, 803-438-1764.

National WIFE Contact:

Pamela Potthoff
HC 2 Box 122
Trenton, NE 69044 
TL: 308-276-2548
EMAIL: harold.potthoff@plantpioneer.com

South Carolina WIFE Contact:

Tammy Smith
803-438-1764

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