UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Dairy producers and agribusiness persons involved in the dairy industry are invited to attend a meeting of the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania (PDMP) March 15 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in State College. This progressive group provides opportunities for members to network, test their latest ideas and share cutting-edge concepts.

At the meeting, producers will have the chance to interact with current members, see how the organization can benefit their operation, tour fellow members' businesses and listen to speakers.

Jeff Keown, professor of genetics at the University of Nebraska, will provide an overview of successful efforts to expand the Nebraska dairy industry and enhance the agriculture infrastructure throughout Nebraska. "Jeff implemented a partnering program with the governor's office and power companies in the state to provide a favorable climate for dairy," says Tammy Perkins, dairy cooperative extension assistant in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences and executive secretary for PDMP.

Doug Wilson, chief operating officer of Genex, will share his international and national views on the dairy industry. His global perspective will provide producers with ideas and insight in order to remain successful in the future.

"The Professional Dairy Managers are a unique group," says Dan Mains, president of PDMP. "PDMP offers interaction, networking and problem solving among the members. No other organization does that for progressive dairy producers in Pennsylvania. Because the organization is driven by producers, it's responsible to members' needs."

With education as the focus, the organization holds membership meetings throughout the year to promote a favorable business climate for Pennsylvania dairy producers. Previous meetings have focused on benchmarking, Hispanic labor, breakthrough management, cost of production, milk marketing, expansion, nutrient management and innovative technology. The group plans an out-of-state tour in the fall.

Memberships are offered to dairy producers and youngstock growers. Associate memberships are offered to individual agribusiness persons who have an interest in dairy.

For more information about PDMP, or the meeting on March 15, contact Tammy Perkins by phone at (888) 373-7232 or by e-mail at tap10@psu.edu.

###

EDITORS: Tammy Perkins can be reached at (888) 373-7232. Photos are available.

Contacts: Kim Dionis KDionis@psu.edu 814-863-2703 814-865-1068 fax