The 34th annual Kentucky Alfalfa Conference returns to south-central Kentucky this year. The conference begins at 8:30 a.m. CST and ends at 3 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Western Kentucky University Expo Center in Bowling Green.

Speakers include forage and beef specialists from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and Western Kentucky University, UK Cooperative Extension agents, Kentucky alfalfa producers and a seed company representative.

Topics include the economics and effectiveness of alfalfa baleage/silage preservatives, the role and importance of alfalfa at Western Kentucky University, alfalfa production in Kentucky and Australia, alfalfa for summer grazing, big square balers and advances in alfalfa promotion. A producer panel will discuss the adjustments and maintenance of haying equipment. In addition to the speakers, the conference will include awards, exhibits and a silent auction.

Program organizers have applied for continuing education units for Certified Crop Advisers.

The conference registration fee is $15 for the general public and $5 for students.

Conference sponsors include the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the UK Cooperative Extension Service and the Kentucky Forage and Grassland Council.

More information on the conference and directions to the expo center are available on the UK Forage Extension website at http://www.uky.edu/Ag/Forage/.