2009 National Farm Business Management Conference

National Association of Farm Business Analysis Specialists

National Farm & Ranch Business Management Educators Association

June 14-18^th, 2009   Sheraton City Center Hotel, St. Louis

400 South 14^th Street (near Scottrade Center )

Longtime known as the "Gateway to the West", St. Louis has always been at a crossroads of commerce, especially agricultural commerce. Located at the convergence of the Illinois, Missouri, and Mississippi rivers, as well as the national highway and rail systems, St. Louis is home to prime farmland as well as prime agricultural businesses. Monsanto, Anheuser-Busch, Cargill, Bunge North America, and Nestle-Purina all call St. Louis home. St. Louis has emerged as the heart of the "BioBelt", a region being touted as the center for biotechnology research and innovation. Though it might seem urban, St. Louis’ economy relies heavily on agriculture.

St. Louis has much to offer in the realm of entertainment for the whole family. Tour the Gateway Arch and its museums, catch a Cardinal’s game, visit Forest Park and its St. Louis Zoo, Science Center, and several museums, or spend time walking through one of the top three botanical gardens in the world. Of course, shopping abounds as well. St. Louis’ Union Station is within walking distance of the conference hotel.

Though still in the planning stages, the agenda will most likely look similar to past conferences. Sunday will be a day to travel into town, register, and socialize with old friends. Parts of the next three days will be spent listening to nationally known speakers on various farm management topics as well as touring local agricultural attractions. The day will be broken up with plenty of networking sessions and terrific meals. Some fun events will also be included in the schedule, maybe even a Cardinal game (schedule permitting). Thursday’s morning session will likely conclude the conference with the Storytelling Breakfast, a short speaking session, and business meetings.