More By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism. Agricultural Outlook Forum Program Slated In February The 2021 Agricultural Outlook Forum, themed “Building on Innovation: A Pathway to Resilience,” will focus on the central role science and innovation have played in helping the agricultural sector overcome challenges and build resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year marks the 97th annual event, put on by the United States Department of Agriculture. Dates for this year’s forum are Thursday and Friday, Feb. 18 and 19. The Forum’s program will begin with a presentation by USDA’s new Chief Economist, Dr. Seth Meyer, on the Department’s outlook for U.S. commodity markets and trade for 2021 and the U.S. farm income situation. A keynote address by the incoming Agriculture Secretary, presentations by Congressional leaders, and a session on genetic literacy are also scheduled for the morning on the first day of the Forum.