Agricultural News
Oklahoma Peanut Expo Set for March 26
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 12:15:11 CDT
Peanut producers from across the state will gather Thursday, March 26 for the 2015 Oklahoma Peanut Expo at Quartz Mountain Resort near Lone Wolf. The annual event, a collaborative effort of the Oklahoma Peanut Commission (OPC), Oklahoma State University, USDA/ARS and peanut sheller interests in the southwest, has become the state's premier industry meeting drawing participants from across the southern U.S. peanut belt.
"The Expo topics are targeted to address current issues important to our farmers," said Joe D White, Commission chairman and peanut producer from Frederick. "As producers, we must be aware of the various factors that may influence our success, whether it be markets, farm policy or production decisions. There is no better way to become informed than by attending the Oklahoma Peanut Expo."
This year's conference will acknowledge the "Golden Anniversary" of the Oklahoma Peanut Commission and the final Expo for retiring Executive Director Mike Kubicek. The OPC earlier announced former OSU Extension Specialist Dr. Ron Sholar as Kubicek's replacement.
"Mike's contribution to the industry is renowned across the nation's peanut belt," said White. "For more than two decades, Mike has provided outstanding leadership on behalf of Oklahoma's peanut producers and we will be forever indebted."
For the second year in a row, a new peanut variety will be unveiled during the meeting by USDA/ARS breeder Dr. Kelly Chamberlin.
"VENUS has outstanding disease resistance and yield potential," White said. "And it's the first High Oleic Virginia-type peanut developed for the southwest, something the industry has been waiting for."
Other program highlights include the peanut marketing outlook, peanut variety advances, disease and weed management, promotion updates and an in-depth review of the 2015 peanut crop insurance program with revenue options. The 10 a.m. 3 p.m. event is open to everyone with an interest in peanuts. Expo registration, which opens at 9 a.m., is free and includes lunch. An exhibit area will provide opportunities for farmers to visit with input suppliers during the day.
A special luncheon caucus will be held for producers from Beckham, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, Tillman, and Washita counties to elect two peanut farmers to serve a three-year term from District 3 on the Oklahoma Peanut Commission effective July 1. Current Commissioners Joe D White of Frederick and Les Crall of Weatherford are eligible for re-election.
For additional information contact Mike Kubicek, Oklahoma Peanut Commission, at 405-275-5994 or okpeanut@sbcglobal.net or Ron Sholar at okpeanutcomm@aol.com .
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