Pest Management and Marketing
to be features at Soybean Congress

The Western New York and Finger Lakes Soybean/Small Grain Congress programs, sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension, provide growers the opportunity to learn and interact with farm suppliers. In addition, this year's featured topics include the latest on marketing and pest management. Cornell University staff will discuss the latest research results. The associated industry trade show offers one-stop shopping for local growers.

The Western New York show will be at the Batavia Party House, Route 5 east of Batavia on February 3. The Finger Lakes show will be at the Holiday Inn Conference Center, Waterloo on February 4. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with the first session beginning at 10 a.m.

Gary Bergstrom, plant pathologist from Cornell, will cover concerns regarding soybean rust and wheat health management. Bill Cox, Cornell agronomist, will discuss soybean populations and pest management practices. Cornell Plant Breeder Margaret Smith and Mike Stanyard, area extension educator, will cover small grain variety trial results from 2003. Nate Herendeen, area extension educator, will discuss alternate uses for small grains. Keith Waldron, Cornell IPM specialist, will cover the soybean aphid and the question if it paid to spray in 2003. Marketing from the grower's perspective will be the topic for this year's panel, which includes Todd Roberts, Orleans County and Don Ballagh, Wayne County.

The associated trade show will offer over 20 agri-business representatives at each location. Lunch is included in the registration fee.

Licensed pesticide applicators will be able to earn certification credits by participating in this educational program. Agricultural professionals will also be able to earn credits towards their Certified Crop Advisor certification. Pre-registration offers a price break for the event, along with participants from the same farm. Contact Wendy Garrett in Batavia, 585-343-3040 extension 138 to register, or more information.