For nearly five decades, it’s been one of the “B.I.G.gest” events around for Central Texas farmers and ranchers, and the 2010 Blackland Income Growth Conference, set Feb. 9-10 at Waco’s Heart of Texas Coliseum, is shaping up to be no exception.

The 48th annual event will provide producers important updates to several legislative issues, market information and regulatory issues affecting Central Texas agriculture production.

“The Annual B.I.G. Conference is one of the most extensive agricultural production conferences of the year,” said Rebecca Parker, Extension regional program director for Agriculture and Natural Resources.

“We’re zeroing in on some important topics that will be of interest to everyone during these rough financial times.

“Our goal each year is to bring in the most knowledgeable speakers available who can offer homeowners, landowners, farmers, and ranchers the best ideas to enhance production in this region.”

Featured topics include a cellulosic ethanol update, information on herbicide resistance for grain producers, a turfgrass emphasis for homeowners, economic and marketing options for beef cattle producers, options in managing forage production costs, along with information in controlling feral hogs, as well as a look at “harvesting the hunter” for wildlife enthusiasts.

The successful Family Issues Summit will feature exercise and living well, protecting children online, exploring emergency services and dealing with the cash crunch.

The event is sponsored by Texas AgriLife Extension and the Waco Chamber of Commerce, and will feature vendor exhibits as part of the annual Mid-Texas Farm and Ranch Show.

Registration for Feb. 9 sessions is $15 per person, and lunch is included. Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson will provide the keynote address at noon, immediately before the annual scholarship awards luncheon.

The second day of the event gives local farmers and ranchers a one-stop opportunity to landing five of the Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units (CEUs) needed for recertification of state pesticide licenses. Beef Quality Assurance and Certified Crop Advisor credits will also be available.

For more information, contact the McLennan County AgriLife Extension Service office at (254) 757-5180 or visit www/urbansolutionscenter.tamu. edu/hot-topics/big/conference.