A grain conference focusing on surviving grain market boom/bust cycles has been organised by the IFA. It will take place next Thursday 25 February at The Anner Hotel in Thurles.

The conference is to look at options open to farmers to mitigate price volatility, boost productivity and incomes, access cheaper finance and create added value. The conference is split into two sessions. The first one looks at surviving the cyclical downturn in cereal prices and includes presentations fertiliser issues, grain marketing, a competitive banking environment and adding value to grain.

The second session focuses primarily on practical issues for farmers. This will include presentations on green cover to help optimise crop yields, trailer regulations as they affect farmers and a presentation about reading the small print.

The conference, which startst at 4.30pm, is free to IFA members and €20 for non-members. To reserve your place, contact Ciara Nagle at ciaranagle@ifa.ie or phone on 01-4260336.