Farmers need to examine the whole grazing operation to discover what areas could be taking their profits rather than increasing them.

This will be the focus of the 18th annual Northwest Pennsylvania Grazing Conference. The workshop will be held March 19 at the Zion Church, three miles south of Interstate 80, Exit 62, near Clarion.

This year’s conference will feature Paul and Phyllis Van Amburgh. The Van Amburghs left professional careers to farm and are enthusiastic about sharing how they are making their 100 percent grass-fed dairy and beef operation successful and profitable.

Jonathan Campbell, meat specialist with Penn State Extension, will talk about direct marketing and labeling and Russell Wilson, local multispecies livestock grazier, will discuss using stockpiled forages.

Bonita Whalen from Kencove will give attendees an understanding of building a better fence — with a list of do’s and don’ts.

A full house is expected so early registration is encouraged. The cost is $30 per person and includes a hot buffet lunch.

Conference information can be downloaded from the Headwaters RC&D website at www.headwaterspa.org, or by calling 814-503-8653.

Registrations can be made online or mailed with fee payable to Headwaters RC&D Council, Attn: Brittany Dittemore, 109 N. Brady St. 2nd floor, DuBois, PA 15801.

Andy Gaver is a conservationist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Butler County.