Gregg Fotheringham

On behalf of the directors, advisors, and executive secretary of the Manitoba North Dakota Zero Tillage Farmers Association, I extend a hearty welcome to one and all. We are sure your stay in Brandon at the 17th annual workshop will be pleasurable and beneficial for you and your operation. Without a doubt, you are attending one of the premier production meetings in the Northern Great Plains.

In the last three years attendance and interest in zero till functions have grown incredibly. The by-words at all levels of government, both sides of the border, are Sustainable Agriculture. There are differing opinions on the true definition. Agriculture must remain industrialized by as many means as possible --- be it revolutionary equipment, GPS farming, biotechnology or research. As farmers we also must remain very cognizant of our farming resources --- the land and environment. Zero till is a very important cog in the wheel which enables us as producers to remain highly productive primary producers using a sustainable production system.

Research has become a very important asset of the Association. The amount of research being completed in a zero till system has grown immensely. The list of researchers doing work on our behalf has increased and is becoming a prominent voice in the research fields. I graciously extend a huge thank-you for a job well done. This information has benefited our members as well as helped increase membership in the Association.

The number of exhibitors has again grown this year. The exhibitors that attend know they are receiving the attention of a very focused group of individuals. In these three days I encourage you to glean the farmers, exhibitors, researchers, and panalists for information which will make these the most productive days of the new yearOur workshop is a chance to "recharge our batteries", so to speak, and to assist those new zero tillers who are planning to begin their zero till system this spring.

Thank you for your attendance and good luck to all!