• About Midwest Agriculture -- The U.S. Midwest region is quickly becoming the global center for the production of IP specialty grains.  Increasingly sophisticated consumer demands, food safety concerns, government labeling requirements, and the growing demand for healthier foods are pushing this unique industry to develop at a rapid pace.  The Midwest is ready to provide!!!

Identity Preserved Market Information

• Trends in the Market for Production of Minnesota IP Crops -- A look at the trends and opportunities for the production of identity preserved (IP) crops in Minnesota.
• Identity Preserved Crops -- A list of the IP soybean, corn, and wheat crops that have been selected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture for promotion in the target country markets of China, Japan, Mexico, and the U.S.
• Identity Preserved Grain: A Logistical Overview -- This USDA study provides valuable insight into the future of containerized IP grain movements.

Recent MSA Activities

2007 Midwest Specialty Grains Conference & Trade Show --

The 4^th annual Midwest Specialty Grains Conference and Trade Show, hosted by the Midwest Shippers' Association, is scheduled for September 16-18, 2007 at the Ramada Plaza & Suites and Convention Center, Fargo, North Dakota, USA. The theme for the conference is "A New Era in Agriculture - Opportunities in Tomorrow's Markets." The conference agenda will focus on a variety of identity preserved (IP), specialty grain markets, including presentations on the Japanese Natto soybean market and both domestic and international pulse crop market opportunities. Other sessions will cover transportation challenges & opportunities and biofuels impact on global markets, with keynote presentations provided by Minnesota Congressman Collin Peterson (confirmed), chairman of the U.S. House Agricultural Committee and Greg Page, new CEO of Cargill, Inc. (invited).

The conference also features an industry specific trade show, consisting of over 50 firms offering a wide variety of products and services to the emerging IP, specialty grain industry. In addition, a pre-conference golf outing is being sponsored on Saturday, September 15, and a post-conference IP, specialty grain grower/processor tour is being offered on Tuesday, September 18.