CGFA 101st Annual Convention

The registration and hospitality area will be open for members to stop by and mingle with other members and staff.

Attendees will have a designated area to gather together to catch up after arrival and unpacking. There will be a few cornhole boards set up for some fun casual play.

Kick off CGFA’s 101st Annual Convention with the spirit of aloha at our traditional welcome reception. Connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed island setting, enjoy tropical refreshments, and break the ice with a fun Hawaiian-themed game. It’s the perfect way to start the convention—Hawaiian style!

The registration and hospitality area will be open for members to stop by and mingle with other members and staff.

A private breakfast of the Past Presidents’ Council. CGFA Past Presidents meet to visit with long-time friends and talk about issues impacting today’s grain & feed industry.

Dairy Demand: Past, Present and Future
By: Joel Karlin, Ocean State Research LLC

In this presentation “Dairy demand: past, present and future” Joel will probe into trends in milk and manufactured dairy product usage on both a domestic and international basis. Some topics discussed include changing dietary habits, food inflation, demographic shifts and expenditures on dairy outside the house in looking at US domestic consumption. On the export side, foreign exchange values, competitor prices and trade relations are important considerations. It is hoped that this outlook will shed greater light onto a less covered topic in agricultural economics, and give you food for thought the next time if you do, pour that glass of milk.

What Is Normal for the U.S. Agricultural Economy?
By: Michael Swanson, Ph.D., Wells Fargo & Company

2025 is shaping up to be a fairly normal year with a Goldilocks’ not too hot or cold outlook. As always, we are a drought away from higher prices, but they don’t happen as often as we think. What are the biggest factors to worry about? We will talk environment versus execution. Michael Swanson is an agricultural economist for Wells Fargo. Based in Minneapolis, his responsibilities include analyzing the impact of energy on agriculture and strategic analysis for key agricultural commodities and livestock sectors. His focus includes the systems analysis of consumer food demand and its linkage to agribusiness.

US Trade and Tariffs
By: Jennie Campbell, Viserion International

This presentation will cover the implications of tariffs, trade restrictions, and uncertainty on US grains, oilseed, and protein meal markets, as well as potential trade flow changes and their impacts on the US domestic market. Jennie Campbell is the Director of Research and Analysis at Viserion International in Boulder, CO. Jennie joined Viserion after seven years as Research Director at DHF Team, a boutique firm in Colorado providing supply and demand forecasting for global oilseed and grain markets, particularly in relation to risk management and price discovery.

Regulatory Insights: An Overview of California’s Feed, Fertilizer, and Livestock Drug Programs
By: Jenna Leal, Branch Chief

Join Jenna M. Leal, Chief of the Feed, Fertilizer, and Livestock Drugs Regulatory Services Branch at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, for an insightful overview of the state’s regulatory programs. She will discuss key policies, industry compliance, and ongoing initiatives that impact feed, fertilizer, and livestock drug sectors. Gain valuable updates on regulatory developments and their implications for agriculture and agribusiness.

Assemblyman James Gallagher (Invited to Speak)

Assemblyman James Gallagher has represented California’s 3rd Assembly District since 2014, encompassing the northern Sacramento Valley.

CGFA Annual Meeting & Activity Reports: Get a 2024-2025 update on your partnership with CGFA from President Kris Vander Maarl, Western Milling LLC, a legislative update by Dennis Albiani and a review of the activities of this past year from Executive Director Chris Zanobini.

Start your morning with warmth and camaraderie at the spouse/guest brunch, featuring a delectable buffet of island-inspired favorites. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with hands-on craft stations, where you can create your own lei, braid leaves, and personalize a keepsake tote bag with traditional stamping techniques. A perfect way to relax, connect, and embrace the spirit of aloha!

The group luncheon features CGFA awards and recognition of retiring board members, CGFA Foundation President Bob Gallagher will announce the winners of the 2025 scholarships, the introduction of the new CGFA President and board members. The luncheon will conclude with this year’s keynote speaker Katie Mulliken. Katie Mulliken is from the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, join us for an engaging and insightful presentation on Hawaii’s dynamic volcanic landscape. As an expert in volcanic activity and geologic hazards, Katie will share the latest research and observations on Hawaii’s active volcanoes, including eruption patterns, monitoring techniques, and the impact of volcanic activity on local communities.

Personal relationships are essential to keeping business running smoothly. At this year’s Industry Social Event, immerse yourself in the aloha spirit as you enjoy the camaraderie of the CGFA membership and industry friends. Stroll through a tropical setting with swaying palms, ocean breezes, and breathtaking island views while savoring delicious Hawaiian-inspired food and refreshing drinks. We’ve created a fun and casual event infused with island charm, ensuring a relaxed and memorable evening for all.

The registration and hospitality area will be open for members to stop by and mingle with other members and staff.

The vans pick you up at the Marriott at 7:30 am and take you on a scenic drive through volcanic landscapes and lush Kohala, passing plantation towns like Hawi and Kapa’au, home to the Kamehameha statue. You’ll then enjoy exclusive access to a one-mile trail along a private stream, with waterfalls and a freshwater swim. The tour concludes with a picnic at a secluded overlook, offering stunning views of valleys and sea cliffs. The vans return to the hotel @ 1:30 pm. We are limited to the first 20 people for van capacity.

World renowned golf has long been associated with the Kohala Coast, and Waikoloa Beach Resort is no exception. Home of “Hawaiʻi’s Premiere 27-Hole Golf Experience.” The annual golf tournament will be held at Beach/Lake courses at the Waikoloa Golf Resort. Registration begins at 7:30 am followed by a shotgun start at 8:00 am. Player’s limited to the first 60 players to register. The tournament will include lunch and prizes.

Join together for an exclusive 3-hour snorkel cruise from 8:30 am to 12:00 noon. Enjoy 5-star service aboard the legendary 58’ sailing catamaran Seasmoke. Your snorkel cruise includes: sanitized snorkel gear and flotation, marine life briefing and snorkel lesson, guided tour of the reef (upon request), a picnic sandwich and salad buffet, soft drinks, beer, wine and cocktails (only served after water-time is completed). Loading area is on the beach behind the hotel on Anaeho’omalu Bay.

Learn to craft the Kuleana Mai Tai in a hands-on “talk story” bar lab. Allow the passionate rum ambassadors to brighten your spirit with the historical tale of this awesome and iconic cocktail. The experience will begin with a guided tasting of four of their award-winning rums; Huihui, Hawaiian Rum Agricole, Nanea & Hōkūlei. Following the tasting, you will be walked through the process of building a 1944 Trader Vic’s Mai Tai using Kuleana Rum. Measure, pour, shake and enjoy!

Learn to craft the Kuleana Mai Tai in a hands-on “talk story” bar lab. Allow the passionate rum ambassadors to brighten your spirit with the historical tale of this awesome and iconic cocktail. The experience will begin with a guided tasting of four of their award-winning rums; Huihui, Hawaiian Rum Agricole, Nanea & Hōkūlei. Following the tasting, you will be walked through the process of building a 1944 Trader Vic’s Mai Tai using Kuleana Rum. Measure, pour, shake and enjoy!

Celebrate with fellow attendees at this lively no-host reception! Reconnect with familiar faces, forge new connections, and explore potential business opportunities in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Plus, don’t miss your chance to win exciting prizes—including sports tickets, wine, getaways, gift baskets, and more!

Indulge in a delicious buffet featuring an array of island-inspired treats, crafted to bring the flavors of paradise to your plate. Savor the rich and diverse tastes of the islands while enjoying the warm, tropical ambiance. As the evening unfolds, be captivated by the mesmerizing performances of traditional island dancers, showcasing the vibrant culture and spirit of the islands. Then, get ready to hit the dance floor as a favorite island band fills the night with rhythmic beats and infectious energy. Whether you’re swaying to the music or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, this will be a night to remember!

Start your Friday morning with some friendly competition at the CGFA Pickleball Tournament! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time player, this exciting round-robin format welcomes all skill levels. Enjoy a morning of fast-paced fun, camaraderie, and light-hearted rivalry. A delicious continental breakfast and refreshing beverages will keep you energized, and winners will take home fantastic prizes. Don’t miss out—grab your paddle and get ready to serve up some fun!