What do you know about precision ag? Attend the Annual Training Conference, March 22nd.

The Minnesota Chapter SWCS has a great line-up planned for the Annual Training Conference on March 22nd in St. Cloud. The theme is "Precision Agriculture Technology: Utilizing it with Conservation." Ed Gruenes (CENTROL Independent Crop Consultant), Bernie Paulson (McPherson Crop Management), and Dave Mulla (University of Minnesota) will talk about the technology and techniques. Don Baloun (NRCS State Conservationist) and Jeff St. Ores (NRCS Water Quality Specialist) will talk about conservation programs. Check out the agenda and registration form for full details about their topics. Register by March 15th to get the early-bird discount.

The training will be preceded by the Chapter's Annual Business Meeting. If you have agenda items to suggest for the business meeting, add them as a comment to this post.

MN SWCS officer elections

It is time to elect Chapter officers. Expect to see your ballot in the mail the week of February 21st. Read about the nominees and learn about the quality leaders who have volunteered to serve.

Priorities for Minnesota's Environment: Perspectives from the Dayton Administration

Here's an opportunity to learn what the new administration is thinking about environmental and conservation policy. A policy forum presented by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative will feature commissioners from MPCA, MDH, MDA, Commerce, BWSR, and DNR who will speak to their priorities and the anticipated short-term challenges facing Minnesota. Governor Mark Dayton has also been invited. The forum will be Friday March 18th, 2011, 11:30-1:30, in St. Paul. See the Minnesota Environmental Initiative site for more information.