The theme for USDA’s 83rd annual Agricultural Outlook Forum next month is “Agriculture at the Crossroads: Energy, Farm and Rural Policy.”

“USDA’s 2007 Agricultural Outlook Forum explores renewable energy’s future in biofuels, cellulosic, methane, and wind,” said Johanns. “The Forum’s national conversation about agriculture centers on the fascinating opportunities and challenges of renewable energy in the next farm bill and beyond.”

“Renewable Energy – Inroads to Agriculture,” the Forum’s plenary panel, includes Archer Daniels Midland President and CEO Patricia Woertz; Cargill Chairman and CEO Warren R. Staley; American Petroleum Institute President and Chairman Red Cavaney; and CHS, Inc. President and CEO John Johnson.

The forum will also address the “U.S. Potential for Biofuels,” featuring Renewable Fuels Association Bob Dinneen, and William Frey, DuPont’s Global Business Director for Biofuels, will explore the marketplace for biobutanol.

The forum will be held March 1 and 2 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel in Arlington, Virginia.