Husker Harvest Days is once again set to serve as a hub for farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness professionals seeking both respite and actionable insights amid the ever-evolving agricultural landscape. This year’s Hospitality Tent, sponsored by Valley, offers more than just a place to recharge—it’s a strategic pitstop for those looking to stay ahead of market shifts, policy changes, and technological advancements shaping the industry.
At the heart of the tent’s programming is the Husker Stage, where daily educational sessions will tackle pressing issues with input from seasoned experts. One standout session, *Riding High: Are You Prepared for a Low in the Beef Market?*, comes at a critical juncture for cattle producers. With beef prices fluctuating amid shifting consumer demand and input costs, Eric Relph of CommStock Investments will draw on his dual expertise as a risk management adviser and cattleman to explore tools like livestock risk protection. His perspective could prove invaluable for producers weighing how to lock in profits or mitigate losses in a volatile market.
Technology remains a dominant theme, with *The Future of Ag Tech: Live with FP Next* bringing together podcasters Curt Arens and Sarah McNaughton-Peterson alongside Farm Progress editor Andy Castillo. Their discussion will dissect the latest innovations—from precision ag to AI-driven decision tools—and their real-world applications. For farmers evaluating whether to adopt new tech, this session offers a chance to cut through the hype and assess practical benefits, cost efficiencies, and potential ROI.
Policy, another perennial concern, takes center stage in *Navigating a New Era of Farm Policy*, moderated by Farm Progress policy editor Josh Baethge. With farm bill negotiations looming and trade dynamics in flux, the panel will break down how federal decisions could ripple through operations, from commodity programs to conservation incentives. Given the stakes—subsidy structures, export markets, and sustainability mandates—attendees can expect a clear-eyed look at what’s at play beyond the Beltway.
For those focused on operational resilience, Ducks Unlimited’s session on *Utilizing Cost-Share Programs* promises tangible takeaways. A producer will share firsthand how their family leveraged programs to enhance soil health and productivity while trimming expenses. With sign-up complexities often deterring participation, this case study could demystify the process and highlight underused opportunities for cost savings.
Agronomy advice will also be in the spotlight during *Ag PhD Live*, where Brian and Darren Hefty will deliver their signature blend of data-driven recommendations and forward-looking strategies. Sponsored by Spraytec, their one-time session on September 9th will cover everything from input optimization to emerging pest pressures—topics that could directly influence yield outcomes and input budgets for the coming season.
Beyond education, the Hospitality Tent fosters connection. KSNB Local 4 will broadcast live daily, offering show updates and interviews with industry figures, while the space itself serves as a gathering point for peers to exchange ideas. The addition of a passport sweepstakes adds a layer of engagement, encouraging attendees to explore the showgrounds—from ag spray drone debuts to equipment demos—while vying for a $1,000 prize.
For women in agriculture, Natalie Kovarik’s session, *Fortune Favors the Brave*, spotlights the role of calculated risk-taking in building successful enterprises. Her journey—from establishing a first-generation cattle ranch to carving out a digital career—underscores how strategic boldness can open doors in an industry often bound by tradition. It’s a timely discussion as more women assume leadership roles in farming and agribusiness.
The underlying current of this year’s programming is clear: agriculture’s future hinges on adaptability. Whether it’s hedging against market downturns, adopting tech that streamlines labor, or navigating policy shifts, the Hospitality Tent’s lineup equips attendees with the knowledge to make informed decisions. In an era where margins are tight and change is constant, these sessions transform a day at the show into an investment in long-term viability.