Niche Beef Production and Marketing Workshop

October 15, 2004

Colorado State University and American Farmland Trust are sponsoring a niche beef production and marketing workshop on Dec. 7 and 8 at the Agricultural Research Development and Education Center, 4616 NE Frontage Road in Fort Collins, during the 4th Annual Taylor Beef Symposium.

The educational workshop is designed to help Colorado’s beef producers more effectively market their products to consumers by improving business, production and market planning. The workshop will include a trade show to match producers with technical and business resources, a tour of Double J Meat Packing in Pierce and feature guest speakers and panels.

"The workshop is a unique and timely opportunity," said Tom Field, associate professor in animal sciences at Colorado State. "Students and professionals will be able to learn from and network with experienced professionals in the branded beef business."

Guest speakers for the workshop include Temple Grandin, associate professor in animal sciences at Colorado State University; Doc and Connie Hatfield of Oregon Country Beef; representatives from Colorado Homestead Ranches in Paonia; Rex Moore of Maverick Ranch Natural Meats; and Allen Williams of The Jacob Alliance.

Topics to be discussed at the symposium include financial planning, risk management, understanding consumer preferences, product pricing, market analysis and planning, and meat handling and packaging.

The registration fee is $100 per person if received before Nov. 19. After Nov. 20, the registration fee increases to $130 per person. Single-day registration rates as well as student rates are available. The registration fee includes a workbook, field trip and meals. Registration is also available on the day of the workshop.

Registration materials can be accessed at www.ansci.colostate.edu or by calling Nancy Weiss at (970) 491-7604. For more information about the workshops, visit http://dare.agsci.colostate.edu/aftnichebeef.