October 29, 2002

Biomass Listening Session at NDSU Scheduled for Nov.

The United States Department of Agriculture/Risk Management Agency (USDA/RMA) is conducting a research project to determine the potential benefits of developing risk management programs for producers of biomass crops.  A primary objective of the study will be to determine whether existing crop insurance programs should be modified to better meet the needs of producers who grow biomass crops or whether new risk management programs should be developed for the biomass production industry.  Project Researchers will conduct listening sessions throughout targeted areas to discuss biomass crop production, utilization, and risk management concerns.

The sessions are designed to obtain input from producers, processors, commodity associations, university research groups, government personnel conducting biomass research, crop insurance industry personnel, and county extension staff.  The session in this area is to be held on Nov. 12, 2002 at Northern Crops Institute, North Dakota State University campus.  Limited space is available.

Contact Cole Gustafson at 701 231-7096 for further information.

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Source: Cole Gustafson, (701) 231-6136, cgustafs@ndsuext.nodak.edu
Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231-6136, richard.mattern@ndsu.nodak.edu