The program, sponsored by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and the USDA Risk Management Agency, will feature Extension experts from four southeastern universities and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dr. Walt Prevatt, an Extension economist, says it will combine hands on learning and live animal evaluations with classroom sessions.

"This combination approach will help cattlemen understand different methods they can employ to manage price risks, add value to what they produce, and improve their profits," said Prevatt.

"Participants will see cattle and learn how they fit into today's cattle market. They'll also learn about cattle cycles and seasonal price trends as well as how to predict cash feeder prices and how to use futures and option contracts."

He adds there will be information presented on the National Animal Identification Plan and a producer panel that will discuss cattle marketing opportunities such as retained ownership, value added marketing and other marketing methods.

Prevatt and his Alabama Extension colleagues will be joined by specialists from Clemson University, the University of Florida and the University of Georgia.

Registration is $35 per person and includes notebooks, handout materials, meals and refreshments. Registration will be $50 per person at the door. Please register early. A limited number of seats is available.

Checks should be payable to Auburn University Agricultural Economics Department. Registration information should be mailed to Dr. Walt Prevatt, 208 Comer Hall, Auburn University, Alabama, 36849 before September 8. Cancellation must be received seven days before the workshop to receive a refund.