Plant sciences student Miguel Macias has been selected to attend USDA’s 2010 Agricultural Outlook Forum, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced. He is among 22 university students majoring in agricultural-related studies who were chosen based on their essays, “Agriculture as a Career,” and recommendations from their deans.

The 2010 Outlook Forum titled, “Sustainable Agriculture: The Key to Health & Prosperity,” is USDA’s largest annual event and will be held Feb. 18 and 19 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel in Arlington, Va.

“USDA’s Outlook Forum offers these students an opportunity to hear government and industry leaders discuss the current economic outlook and describe their vision, policies, and direction for agriculture’s future,” Vilsack said. “We hope this experience will help these young women and men become leaders in the 21st century agriculture economy and address the important issues facing America’s farmer and ranchers.”

This year, sponsoring corporations and USDA agencies include: CHS, Inc.; the Farm Credit Association; and USDA’s Economic Research Service. In addition to USDA leaders, this year’s forum will feature U.S. Trade Representative Ronald Kirk and guest speakers from the private sector.