February 28, 2006

The Michigan Departments of Environmental Quality, Agriculture, and Labor and Economic Development are teaming up with Michigan State University-Extension, Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network, and numerous other agricultural associations to deliver Michigan’s premier Agri-Energy conference being held at the Horizons Conference Center, Saginaw, on March 15.

The “Harvesting Agri-Energy Conference” will bring together agriculture and energy to advance opportunities for producers and rural communities to profitably diversify into clean Agri-Energy production. Attendees will learn the latest methods, tools, and attitudes that will transform Michigan's economy.

Featured speakers include some of the nation’s leading experts on rural, clean, Agri-Energy production. David Morris, Director of the Institute for Local Self Reliance, will deliver the keynote speech entitled, “How Harvesting Clean Energy Can Strengthen Rural Economies and help Michigan Reach Energy Independence.” Charlie Kubert of the Environmental Law and Policy Center of the Midwest will speak on “Re-powering Michigan: The 21st Century Clean Energy Opportunities;” and Dr. Bruce Dale from Michigan State University will connect agriculture and energy by presenting a “Vision for the Future.”

Afternoon breakout sessions will feature 15 speakers in 3 tracks: anaerobic digesters; biofuels and bioproducts; and energy efficiency and renewable energies.

The conference will conclude with solicitation to support a cohesive Agri-Energy Strategy for Michigan to lead the agricultural industry in adopting energy efficient technologies and management practices that reduce production costs, minimize negative environmental impacts, and improve economic sustainability.

For more information or to register online, go to the following Web site www.michigan.gov/deqworkshops and click on “Upcoming DEQ Workshops.”

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised February 28, 2006 by Pat Watson