Technology One of Three Topic Areas at 2015 Industry Conference

Early Registration Closes Jan. 9

Trends, technology and tradition in agriculture will be on everyone’s minds at the 2015 Ohio AgriBusiness Association Industry Conference Feb. 4-5, with sessions highlighting current topics, cutting-edge technology, and annual updates from state agencies and associations at the third annual event.

An estimated 300 industry professionals will attend the two-day conference, gleaning insight from agricultural experts from across the country on a variety of topics, related to agronomy, grain and feed, pertinent to Ohio’s agribusinesses.

“The theme of this year’s Industry Conference – Trends, Technology, Tradition – is all encompassing of our members’ needs,” said Chris Henney, OABA president and CEO. “Whether they’re interested in legislation updates, new methods and best practices, or how to prepare the next generation’s workforce, the agenda is equipped with speakers and sessions to meet all interests.”

Technology, one of the three topic areas, will feature presentations on emerging innovations and tools in agriculture.  

Unmanned aircraft systems, also referred to as UAS, UAVs or drones, have been at the forefront of agricultural news for the past year, according to Dr. Brian Arnall, associate professor of precision nutrient management at Oklahoma State University, who will present “A Down to Earth Look at UAVs in Agriculture” during the last session of the conference.

Arnall will discuss the hype surrounding the adapted technology and its role in agriculture moving forward.

“This technology will be a tool used to increase productivity and efficiency of both the producer and the consultant,” said Arnall. “The challenge is finding the right fit for the technology currently available and, at the same time, understanding what the future holds.”

Arnall will also present “Agriculture Apps” on the first day of the conference, another topic classified under technology.

A complete agenda is available at www.oaba.net/events_conference.

All-inclusive registration for the event includes admission to both days of educational programming and all meals, including the Industry Networking Reception & Dinner and OABA Annual Meeting. Registration fees are as follows:

Member: $250 ($325 after Jan. 9)

Non-Member: $400 ($475 after Jan. 9)

Individual day and reception/dinner only registrations are also available. Visit www.oaba.net/events_conference for more information and to register. All cancellations must be made by Jan. 21 to be eligible for a refund.

Continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for both Certified Crop Advisers and state licensed pesticide applicators that attend the conference.

Hotel accommodations for the Crowne Plaza Columbus North can be made online by clicking this link or by calling 1-877-834-3613 and using the code “OAB.” The deadline to make reservations is Jan. 12.

Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities for the Industry Conference are available and can be found at www.oaba.net/events_conference.