25th Annual Young Farmers Conference

Growth through diversification and adding value to products will be the topics of discussion for 70 young farmers at the 1999 Young Farmer's Conference in Kentville, Feb. 3 to 5.

The theme for the conference is Young Farmers ...Growing Opportunities! Participants will hear speakers, visit farms and network to enhance their success as agricultural entrepreneurs. The conference is held annually for farmers who are 35 years old and under, and is sponsored by various businesses, farm organizations and the Department of Agriculture and Marketing.

"These farmers are leaders in the industry and I am proud of the examples they set for the agricultural industry," said Agriculture and Marketing Minister Ed Lorraine in praise of the province's young farmers. "Success in agriculture today requires that farmers try new agricultural ventures, search out niche markets and be proactive in such a demanding marketplace. This conference helps give farmers the tools to succeed."

Speakers at the conference will provide participants with a variety of ideas for success in the global marketplace. Participants will also share success stories about new products, discuss environmental concerns that impact farm business, and identify new market opportunities to encourage other participants to strive for success in agriculture.

Information learned and contacts made at the conference are invaluable to the future careers of many participants.

"Our farm life is very busy and each year we welcome the chance to attend this conference," said host couple Peter and Christina Swetnam of Wilmar Acres Farm in Sheffield Mills, both young farmers. "The conference is a great opportunity to tour other agricultural operations, make new friends and meet farmers from a variety of commodity groups." As the host couple, the Swetnams are involved in organizing the conference and getting sponsors.

For 25 years, the annual Young Farmer's Conference has provided young leaders in the Nova Scotia agricultural industry with information on how to be successful in agri-business. The conference also provides them with the opportunity to network with others in the industry.