More than 230 participants are registered to attend the U.S. Grains Council’s 2011 International Marketing Conference and Annual Membership Meeting in New Orleans.

This number does not include spouses, guests or Council staff, making it one of the largest Council meeting on record.

The timeliness of the information offered is one factor driving registration, as leading experts will discuss current infrastructure problems with the U.S. grain transportation system.

Many notable presenters, including the Council’s international staff members, will focus on export issues including trade policy, biotechnology and value-added.

On Feb. 7, combined Advisory Team (A-Team) panels will meet to discuss these critical issues and others.

Erick Erickson, USGC special assistant for planning, evaluation and projects, emphasizes the role of A-Teams in developing the Council’s United Export Strategy (UES), the annual plan that directs Council priorities and programs.

“These programs are for our members, so it’s critical that they bring their own perspectives and insights to the discussion to help determine our future,� Erickson said. “The checkoffs invest grower dollars in export market development, and our success contributes to growers’ bottom lines.�

Erickson predicts a lively discussion between Council experts and A-Team members during the combined sessions. Ultimately, member guidance from the discussions will be incorporated into the UES that the Council will file with USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service.

The Council meeting will run from Feb. 6 to 10 at the Hotel InterContinental in New Orleans.

For further details or late registration, call (202) 789-0789 or click here.