COLDWATER, Mich. — The Branch County Extension office, the Branch County Agribusiness Council and the Branch Area Careers Center will host the 43rd annual Farmer’s Day on Feb. 15 at the Branch Area Careers Center.

Admission to the event is free.

The exhibit area will open from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and the morning programs will run from 10:30 a.m. to noon. A $2 lunch will be served from noon until 1:30 p.m., and exhibits will be open again at that time. Eight educational session will be run simultaneously during the morning program. The sessions include:
•Grain Marketing Update: Room 144

Dr. Jim Hilker, MSU Department of Ag Economics, will discuss marketing and management decisions.

•Soybeans 2010: Room 164
MSU Extension Educator Mike Staton will talk about new technologies and management techniques for increasing profitability from soybeans.

•Using Cover Crops: Room 140
MSU District Extension Agriculture Specialist Dr. Dale Mutch will talk on environmental and economic concerns that have fueled a resurgence in cover crops.

•Soy For Your Heart: Room 170
MSU Extension Educator Gretchen Hofing will discuss the benefits of eating soy products.

•Bioenergy Crops: Room 112
Dennis Pennington, a bioenergy educator with the Kellogg Biological Station will discuss which bioenergy crops that may be more profitable in the future.

•Horse Management: Room 166
Dr. Chris Skelly and Karen Waite, of MSU’s Department of Animal Science will lead this session.

•Pork Quality Assurance: Mall Area
MSU Extension Area Swine Agent Tom Guthrie will offer tips for showman.

•Exploring 4-H: Room 133
MSU Extension Branch County educator Connie Lange will show kids a sample 4-H project and teach about various clubs.