By Andi Anderson
The 2026 Great Lakes Forage and Grazing Conference is scheduled for Thursday, March 19. The event is organized by the Michigan Forage Council in partnership with Michigan State University Extension. This year’s theme, Back to the Basics of Making a Profit, focuses on strengthening farm income through sound forage and grazing practices.
The conference will take place at a new venue, the CTE John C Magnus Center in Harrison, Michigan. The facility provides convenient access from US-127 and offers modern space for educational sessions and a tradeshow featuring forage related vendors. The event is designed for forage producers, graziers, students, agribusiness professionals, and educators.
The program will begin with welcome remarks from Michigan Forage Council President Jon Nelson. The keynote address will be delivered by Ben and Denise Bartlett of Log Cabin Livestock in the Upper Peninsula. Their presentation, titled How Grass Bought the Farm, will share practical lessons from years of grazing experience and farm management.
Participants will also hear from three Michigan farms during the Forage Spokesperson Contest, where producers explain how forage systems support their operations. After lunch, a special presentation will review 45 years of recommended forage practices and industry changes.
Afternoon breakout sessions will cover updated forage research, the value of structured grazing plans, methods to prevent and manage hay fires and an in-depth discussion of virtual fencing technology. Experts from universities, industry representatives, and farmers using technology will provide practical insights.
Registration costs $65 before March 15 and $75 after that date. The fee includes a meal prepared by the CTE Culinary Arts Program. For additional information or registration assistance, individuals may contact the local Extension office.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education