BEDFORD, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Young Farmers Association will hold its 52th annual winter conference at the Best Western Bedford Inn, Bedford, Pa., Feb. 7-9.

Deadline

The conference is being hosted by The Bedford County Young Farmers, a newly formed young farmer chapter organized through the Bedford County Technical Center. Deadline for early registration is Jan. 13; full registration, Jan. 23.

The three-day program will include a business meeting, educational workshops, tours and recognition of outstanding young farmers and others who support the efforts of PYFA.

Tours include the Bedford County Technical Center, Everett; Singing Brook Farms, operated by the Snider Family which has been farming in Bedford County since 1785; BC Stone, creators of pieces for residential and commercial customers; Blue Triangle Hardwoods, a mill offering one-stop shopping; and REI distribution Center, a 500.000 sq. ft. facility that serves REI stores throughout the country.

Topics

Workshops will feature speakers on Marcellus shale; local, national and global markets; and the impacts of soil fertility on corn production.

Spouses’ program includes a visit to Bedford Springs Resort, learning about its history including the role of the resort in World War II, and a visit to downtown Bedford.

Contest. A Spokesperson for Agriculture contest will be held, including a media blitz Tuesday morning to help inform supermarket shoppers of agriculture’s role in bringing fresh, wholesome, nutritious foods.

For more information contact Britney Marsh, public relations director, 3360 Spring Road, Carlisle, PA 17013 or call 717-887-8586. Deadline for awards nominations is Jan. 15. Applications should be sent to Britney Marsh.

Cost

Attendees are requested to bring a non-perishable food donation for the local food bank. Cost for the entire conference is $100 if postmarked by Jan. 13; $110 if postmarked by Jan. 23; $130 by Jan. 30.

Registrations should be mailed to Ed Zug, 390 Peters Creek Road, Peach Bottom, PA 17563. He may be reached at 717-548-3178 or at edzug@frontiernet.net.

Hotel reservations should be made directly with the Best Western Bedford Inn, 814-623-9006. Complete program details and registration form can be found at www.payoungfarmers.com.