People around the world seem to be more divided on important food and agricultural topics than ever before. The use of on-farm technologies, breakthroughs like CRISPR, and how to address consumers’ ever-changing perceptions of modern ag are just a few of the heavily debated topics in agriculture and non-agriculture circles alike. There’s no shortage of passion on all sides.
But the true essence of these subjects doesn’t lie at the poles, but rather somewhere in the middle. That’s why they are just some of the topics that are being discussed at the Bayer AgVocacy Forum, today and Wednesday in Orlando.
Lisa Safarian, President and Head of Commercial Operations for Crop Science North America at Bayer said, “The AgVocacy Forum is a time when we bring together leading voices in our industry to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing us, in the spirit of respectful and candid dialogue.”
This year, those topics will include the latest in-field innovations such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, as well as urban farming and shifting consumer preferences. In addition, Safarian will share her vision for agriculture in North America and for Bayer’s role in it. Dr. Robert (Bob) Reiter, Head of Research and Development for the Crop Science division of Bayer, will highlight the company’s pipeline of future products. The two-day agenda will also include panel discussions and presentations featuring experts and thought leaders from across industry, academia, grower associations and, of course, growers themselves. The impressive line-up includes the following:
- Nikolas Badminton, Futurist and Strategic Advisor
- Lynn Dornblaser, Director of Innovation and Insight, Mintel
- Vonnie Estes, Vice President of Technology, Produce Marketing Association
- Dan Basse, President, AgResource
- Kevin Kester, 2018 President, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Sheila MacVicar, an award-winning international news correspondent, and Clinton Griffiths, one of the most visible journalists serving U.S. agriculture, will co-moderate the event. Together, they will guide attendees through the program from both industry and consumer perspectives. “Gaining public support for modern ag means building bridges with people who may not be familiar with farming,” said Darren Wallis, Vice President, Crop Science North America Communications at Bayer. “That’s why we’ll examine not only a range of the most impactful issues facing ag, but also various points of view as we explore them together.”
Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn more about specific areas and initiatives at Bayer, from the company’s newly integrated portfolio of industry-leading products, to the latest at The Climate Corporation, Bayer’s venture investments, and initiatives to protect the environment.
Join the conversation by following @bayer4cropsus on Twitter and Instagram, using #AgVocate and following our social live stream. Panels and discussions also will be broadcast live from Orlando in the AgVocate Facebook group.
