Join farmers Cliff Hawbaker and Myron Martin, as well as researchers Matt Haan and Dale Johnson, from 6-8pm on December 8, at the Farm and Home Center in Lancaster, for a discussion regarding the economics of the dairy industry, particularly as it relates to grass-based operations. In a challenging economic climate, the presenters will explore how grazing could be an important part of the financial solution for many farms, moving forward. Potentials and pitfalls of this production system will be addressed; questions from the audience will be encouraged.

Farmer Cliff Hawbaker owns and operates Hamilton Heights Dairy Farm and Emerald Valley Farm, both in southcentral PA. A lifelong dairy farmer, he began grazing in 1998 and serves as a mentor within the PA Grazing Lands Coalition. Cliff will be joined on the panel by Myron Martin, who owns and operates Peace Hollow Farm, a certified organic, all-grass dairy in Knoxville, Maryland. Also on the panel will be Dale Johnson, a researcher at the University of Maryland, who has published on the economics of management intensive grazing in the mid-Atlantic region. Matt Haan, of the Penn State Extension Dairy Team, will round out the field of presenters, as a specialist in the economic analysis of dairy operations.

This event is $10 for PASA members, $15 for non-members. Questions regarding registration or the event, in general, can be addressed to Aaron de Long, by phone at 484-680-3778, or by email at aaron@pasafarming.org .