Southwest Missouri Spring Forage Conference 2026

By Blake Jackson

The Southwest Missouri Spring Forage Conference is scheduled for Feb. 17, 2026, at the Oasis Hotel and Convention Center, 2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield.

“The event will he headlined with an interview between Oklahoma State University agricultural economist Dr. Derrel Peel and Missouri’s own Tyne Morgan of ‘U.S. Farm Report,’” says Patrick Davis, University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist.

Peel, the Charles Breedlove Professor of Agribusiness at Oklahoma State, has more than 35 years of experience as an extension livestock marketing specialist. He is nationally recognized for his work in livestock market analysis, marketing, and risk management education for producers.

Peel also conducts research on livestock production economics, meat demand and supply chain issues, and international cattle and beef trade, with particular expertise in the Mexican cattle and beef industry.

“Peel should provide an entertaining interview that will be led by Missouri’s own Tyne Morgan, who is the first female host of ‘U.S. Farm Report,’” Davis adds. Morgan lives with her husband and two daughters in rural Missouri and is passionate about supporting her local community.

The conference luncheon will feature Peter Ballerstedt, presenting “The Roots of Humanity’s Future.” Ballerstedt has a long career in the forage industry, including work as a forage extension specialist at Oregon State University and roles in the forage seed sector. He emphasizes the importance of ruminant agriculture in food systems and the contribution of animal-sourced foods to human nutrition, fostering collaboration among producers, consumers, and researchers globally.

“Participants can attend several breakout sessions,” Davis says. Topics include rebuilding weakened forage stands, virtual fencing for regenerative grazing, energy supplementation, grazing crabgrass, reproductive management, drones in agriculture, pasture weed management, and emerging cattle diseases.

Sheep and goat producers will also find sessions on parasite control, rotational grazing, predator management, and consumer preferences.

A trade show will run alongside the conference, featuring agricultural businesses and organizations. For exhibitor or sponsorship inquiries, contact Jody Wade at 417-468-4176, ext. 3, or jody.wade@swcd.mo.gov.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m., with sessions from 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. The registration fee is $55 per person until Feb. 6 and $65 afterward. Deadline to register is Feb. 13. No walk-ins allowed. For details or to pay by phone, contact Stephanie Essary at 417-468-4176, ext. 3.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem