1998 Young Farmers' Conference

Success in agri-business will be the topic of discussion for 75 young farmers attending the 1998 Young Farmers' Conference in Antigonish today to Friday, Feb. 13.

The conference theme is Young Farmers . . . We Mean Business! Participants will hear speakers, visit farms and network to enhance their success as agricultural entrepreneurs.

The conference is held annually in Nova Scotia for farmers 35 years and under and is sponsored by various businesses, farm organizations and the Department of Agriculture and Marketing. This is the 24th Young Farmers' Conference held in the province.

Agriculture and Marketing Minister Ed Lorraine praised young farmers in the province. "These farmers mean business. Success in agriculture today requires farmers to use a variety of skills and be proactive businesspeople in order to succeed in a demanding marketplace. The Young Farmers' Conference is a key reason Nova Scotia has such a strong farming community."

Speakers at the conference will present participants with their recipe for success in agri-business and relate stories of their experience with product promotion, market opportunities, and business expansion. Information learned and contacts made are invaluable in furthering the careers of many participants.

"Life on our farm is hectic," said host couple Denise and David Bekkers from Antigonish. "The conference is a great opportunity to meet and socialize with others that are involved in the agricultural industry." As the host couple, the Bekkers are part of the conference organizing committee.