The impact of new wine shipment legislation, the 2007 Farm Bill and trends in specialty crops are a few of the highlighted topics that will be explored at the annual Agribusiness Economic Outlook Conference Dec. 6 at Cornell University. Sponsored by Cornell's Department of Applied Economics and Management (AEM), the event will take place in the David L. Call Auditorium of Kennedy Hall, on campus.

"Recent legislation and court decisions regarding the direct shipment of wine presents a significant opportunity for New York wineries," said Professor Gerald B. White. Most Finger Lakes wineries have heavily relied on direct sales at the winery as their primary revenue source. While that will remain the case for many years, over the longer haul, more New York wineries will have an opportunity to market their wines out of state, both in retail channels and as direct shipping to customers.

During the conference, White will discuss how 2005 New York state legislation creates opportunities for New York wineries, particularly the operations that cater to niche markets. In other presentations, White will present the fruit, grape and wine outlook for the upcoming year.

Other key presentations by AEM faculty members include a national perspective on the economy and agriculture by Associate Professor Steven Kyle. In a panel that explores the formation of the 2007 Farm Bill, Professor Andrew Novakovic will discuss the dairy policy, White will give a report on specialty crops and Associate Professor Harry de Gorter will present a talk, "Trade Legislation and World Trade Organization: Impacts on the Farm Bill."

At two concurrent afternoon sessions, AEM faculty will examine specific commodities in depth:

For information on pre-registration, registration and parking permits, visit http://aem.cornell.edu/outreach/conferences/economic_outlook.htm or call Linda Putnam at (607) 255-8429. Registrations will not be accepted over the telephone.