USDA is currently reviewing federal dairy policy to determine what changes are needed to reduce price volatility and enhance farmer profitability.
Ky. Agricultural Leadership Program seeks nominations
The Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program is accepting nominations for its ninth class, which is scheduled to begin in January.
The 18-month program focuses on fine-tuning the leadership skills of 20 active farmers or agribusiness professionals. It is funded by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board, farm organizations, agribusinesses, alumni and program participants.
"This program is tailored to young professionals who want to be on the cutting edge of decisions that will affect agriculture and rural communities in the 21st century," Will Snell, co-director of the program and extension professor in the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, said. "Those who complete this program develop the ability to accept leadership responsibility in society."
The program consists of 10 study seminars at locations across Kentucky. Each seminar lasts about three days, including travel. Class members will also participate in a five-day study tour of the federal policy process and agencies in Washington, D.C. In addition, participants will take a 10- to 12-day international study tour to a major agriculture-producing region. Past classes visited Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Argentina. An additional five- to seven-day tour of agriculture in another state is also a possibility, budget permitting.
Nominations are due Sept. 1, 2009. All nominees will receive applications, which are due by Oct. 15. Those selected for potential participation will undergo a personal interview as part of the final selection process. Class participants will be selected by Dec. 1.
Selected individuals are required to attend all seminars. Each class member will receive a scholarship valued at $28,000, which covers lodging, meals, seminar expenses and travel for the national and international study tours. Those selected will exhibit their commitment to participate and pay $2,000 each in two $1,000 installments over a two-year period to partially defray program expenses. Scholarships are available.
Nomination forms and other information can be found online at www.uky.edu/Ag/KALP. For more information, contact the local county extension office or call (859) 257-7292.
