The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) is sponsoring an educational forum for new and experienced crop and livestock farmers.

“Farming Matters: A Forum for Crop and Livestock Farmers” will be held March 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Holiday Inn/Amana Colonies.

General and concurrent sessions provide details for developing successful business plans for raising livestock, effectively using animal nutrients in crop production and meeting regulations.

Bruce Babcock, director of the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development, will explore economic incentives that make livestock farming an attractive business opportunity in 2006.

A farm panel chaired by public relations expert Carol Bodensteiner will offer insight into ways farmers can enhance relationships with neighbors while making changes to their operations.

Farmers interested in diversifying their business will be given a step-by-step guide for getting started raising livestock. The session, “So you want to build a livestock barn,” will be moderated by CSIF Organization Director Rex Hoppes and Eldon McAfee, legal counsel for the Iowa Pork Producers Association.

To register, visit www.supportiowasfarmers.org or call (800) 932-2436.