Event to Spotlight Forage, the Quiet Hero of Tennessee’s Livestock Systems
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – On Friday, November 7, the Lane Agri-Park Auditorium in Murfreesboro will transform into a hub of agricultural innovation and community as the Tennessee Forage & Grassland Council (TFGC) hosts its highly anticipated 2025 annual meeting.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Our State’s Best Resource,” puts the spotlight on forage, the quiet hero of Tennessee’s livestock systems.
The day begins with early setup at 7:30 a.m. CT, followed by trade show exhibits and registration at 8 a.m. From there, attendees will dive into a full slate of presentations, discussions and learning opportunities designed to elevate forage management across the state. Lunch will be provided.
Leading the speaker lineup is Bronc Finch, Extension specialist in soil fertility from the University of Arkansas, whose keynote will explore the critical relationship between soil health and fertility in forage systems. Joining him are experts from across Tennessee’s agricultural community, including Katie Mason, University of Tennessee associate professor of animal science, who will unpack the economics of hay quality and supplementation. UT Extension Farm Management Specialist David Bilderback and Bruno Pedreira, associate professor of plant sciences and director of the UT Beef and Forage Center, will walk attendees through steps to build a practical forage budget. Chris Hancock and Cory Hodge from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will share updates on conservation programs.
Producer Bill Legg will offer a personal look at his grazing journey, followed by a panel discussion featuring Charlie Denton and Ben Gilbert, and moderated by TFGC President Andy Ulmer. The day also includes a forage plot tour showcasing the latest research in action. The tour will be led by Jared Franklin, UT Extension agent in Cannon County; Renata Oakes, UT professor of plant sciences; and others.
As the meeting winds down, the spotlight will turn to celebration by honoring the winners of the Tennessee State Fair hay competition as a tribute to the producers who exemplify excellence in forage production. It’s a fitting end to a day that blends science, storytelling and stewardship.
Now is the time to be part of the conversation shaping the future of Tennessee agriculture. Whether you’re a seasoned producer, a curious newcomer, a vendor or a student, this event offers a rare opportunity to connect with the people and ideas driving innovation in forage systems. Come learn, share and grow with us.
Registration online is recommended to aid in planning the event. To register, or for more information, visit: utbeef.tennessee.edu/tennessee-forage-grassland-council. The fee to attend is $50 per person, covering annual dues for TFGC/AFGC and the cost for the meal. In-person registration will also be available at the event.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is comprised of the Herbert College of Agriculture, UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch and UT Extension. Through its land-grant mission of teaching, research and outreach, the Institute touches lives and provides Real. Life. Solutions. to Tennesseans and beyond. utia.tennessee.edu.