The 2012 Missouri Governor's Conference on Agriculture is coming to Kansas City for the first time and registration is now open. The conference, held Jan. 19-21, will focus on current key issues in agriculture, including food safety, security and integrity.

Conference registration forms are now available online at mda.mo.gov. The conference registration includes all sessions, meals, speakers and entertainment. The registration fee is $200 if you register by December 31, 2011.

The Governor's Conference on Agriculture will feature in-depth panel discussions on the management of the Missouri River, EPA regulations and international exports and agricultural markets.

One highlight of the 2012 event will be the opening Taste of AgriMissouri reception. This traditional event, held Thurs., Jan. 19, will feature the finest products Missouri agriculture has to offer, including foods and beverages from local businesses, AgriMissouri companies, our outstanding commodity associations and Missouri's famous wineries.

The 2012 Missouri Governor's Conference on Agriculture will be held at the Westin Crown Center hotel in Kansas City. The Conference is open to the public; however registration is required for most events.

The event is funded through sponsorships and registrations.

For more information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit mda.mo.gov.