11/13/06 Grain workshops

There are four workshops this week in North Idaho and Eastern Washington for grain farmers. Washington State University is putting on the half-day sessions to help farmers secure a good average price for their crop. FIESS "It's a new way to look at grain marketing." Dennis Fiess of the WSU Western Center for Risk Management Education says four workshops held last January drew praise from farmers. FIESS "Comments like 'the best workshop ever.' 'Now I finally understand marketing.' The comments could have been more positive." "Winning the Game" has been adapted to Northwest white wheat and simulates real-life grain marketing decisions. That lets farmers practice marketing without the risk of losing real cash. The marketing game uses local prices, local situations and isn't imported from the Midwest. Fiess says the presenter at the workshops knows and understands Idaho and Northwest grain markets. On Thursday, November 16th, the workshops will be held in Clarkston, Washington and Craigmont, Idaho. Friday sessions are slated for Genesee and Colfax, Washington. If you need more information on the Idaho workshops you can get it through the Barley Commission in Boise at 334-2090. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott