Rep. Charlie Melancon, D-La., and Rep. Charles W. Boustany Jr., R-La., will host Farm Day 2008 Feb. 20 at the West St. Mary Civic Center in Jeanerette, La.

All farmers and ranchers in south Louisiana are invited to attend.

The annual forum provides information for farmers and ranchers in south Louisiana about current legislation and policies in Washington affecting agriculture.

Farm Day 2008 will focus on the status of the new farm bill and relevant trade agreements and will feature agriculture experts, leading researchers and industry specialists.

Mark Keenum, USDA undersecretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Service, will deliver the keynote address during lunch.

Farm Day 2008 follows last year’s forum in Rayne, La., that was co-hosted by Melancon and Boustany.

“Farmers and ranchers in south Louisiana no doubt have questions about developments in Washington that could impact their livelihoods, especially with regard to the renewal of the farm bill and possible upcoming trade agreements,” Melancon said.

“Farm Day 2008 will bring together experts and policymakers with those in south Louisiana who are most affected by agricultural policy. I urge every farmer and rancher who is able to attend Farm Day 2008.”

“Hearing from farmers and ranchers across southwestern Louisiana helps Charlie and me as we work for a better farm bill,” Boustany said. “Understanding the difficulties our farm families face is critical to developing a responsible and effective bill. I look forward to a very productive meeting.”