Writer: Blair Fannin, (979) 845-2259,b-fannin@tamu.edu
Contacts: Dr. Mark Waller, (979) 845-8011,mwaller@tamu.edu
Dr. Blake Bennett, (972) 231-5362,b-bennett@tamu.edu
COLLEGE STATION – Farmers and ranchers could net thousands of added dollars annually if they practiced sound marketing strategies.
Producers can learn how to develop those techniques by attending Texas Cooperative Extension’s national award winning Master Marketer Program.
Master Marketer provides producers in-depth, intensive risk management training with the first of four, two-day sessions scheduled Jan. 5-6, 2005, at the Gainesville Civic Center. Those who need a refresher or need updating on futures and options trading can attend a leveling workshop on Jan. 4.
“Anybody who wants to do a better job of marketing and increase their net return consistently should attend the Master Marketer Program,” said Dr. Blake Bennett, Extension economist and coordinator of the Gainesville event.
The program teaches participants how to develop marketing plans, evaluate marketing alternatives, manage production and price risk.
“(The program) also helps teach the skills and discipline necessary to execute a risk management and marketing plan,” Bennett said. Post-training surveys from previous Master Marketer participants indicate an average increase in gross income of $32,000 annually based on the information taught at the training workshop.
“There is no reason that program graduates shouldn’t receive this level of increased returns for the next 10 years,” Bennett said.
“Marketing and risk management skills, case studies, group discussions and simulation exercises will be used wherever possible to provide students with real tools that they can use on their own farm and ranch operations,” Bennett said.
Instructors include leading professionals from industry and universities across the country, he said.
“The Master Marketer Program is an excellent risk-management intensive study,” said Ted Harter, a Parker County producer who recently completed the Master Marketer Program. “It’s a must for any progressive ag producer today.” Registration is $250 and includes noon meals and materials. Deadline for registration is Dec. 21.
Most of the cost of the program is covered by grants from sponsors including the Texas Corn Producers Board, Texas Wheat Producers Association, Texas Farm Bureau and Cotton State Support Committee.
Anyone interested in attending or learning more about the program can contact an Extension agent in their county or call Bennett at (972) 952-9273.
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