For Immediate Release
Contact: Vicki Hamende, Senior Editor
Phone: (307) 766-6342
E-mail: hamende@uwyo.edu
October 28, 2003

Online management course
offered for agricultural producers

            Ranchers and farmers can learn strategic management techniques to apply to their own agricultural operations in an online Western Integrated Resource Education (WIRE) course developed by the University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service (CES).

            The first class in the three-part series will run from Nov. 17 through Dec. 19. Information about registration can be obtained on the WIRE Web site at agecon.uwyo.edu/wire/Brochures/WIREInternet/default.htm or by contacting John Hewlett, CES farm and ranch specialist, at hewlett@uwyo.edu or (307) 766-2166.

            WIRE teaches a concept of management that provides practical tools for integrating the physical, biological, financial and human resources of agricultural operations, according to Hewlett. The course emphasizes the process of management – setting goals and priorities, making decisions, planning, budgeting, keeping records and evaluating operations with personal goals and optimization in mind.

            Utilizing presentations, readings, case studies, management team meetings, worksheets, and student/instructor interaction, WIRE delivers a hands-on approach to enhance learning, Hewlett says.

            A second WIRE course on the tactical level of management will be offered Jan. 12 to Feb. 13, 2004, followed by a third session on operational management Feb.16 to March 19.

            The courses are taught by Hewlett, Human Development Specialist Randy Weigel and other CES specialists and educators.

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