INDIANA — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is inviting farmers, ranchers, and industry leaders to its premier annual event: the 2026 Agricultural Outlook Forum. The 102nd edition of this historic gathering will take place on February 19–20, 2026, offering both in-person attendance at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott and a comprehensive virtual platform for global participants.
This year’s forum, titled “Agriculture’s New Golden Age,” comes at a pivotal time for the sector. Attendees will hear directly from Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and the newly appointed Chief Economist Justin Benavidez, who will unveil the USDA’s initial 2026 forecasts for the agricultural economy, trade, and farm income.
The 2026 program is designed to tackle the most pressing technological and security challenges facing modern producers. Featured sessions will include:
- Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture: Experts will discuss how AI is being integrated into seed development and production practices to increase yields and lower costs.
- National & Farm Security: A deep dive into the intersection of domestic food production and national defense.
- Animal Health & Safety: Updates on the coordinated federal response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and New World screwworm.
- Trade Strategy: A plenary panel will explore the future of U.S. agricultural trade under the current administration’s trade paradigm.
The forum serves as a massive networking hub, featuring representatives from the USDA’s Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area. Attendees can visit exhibit booths—either in the physical lobby or via virtual portals—to get one-on-one guidance from:
- Farm Service Agency (FSA): For updates on disaster assistance and farm loans.
- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): For the latest on regenerative agriculture and conservation funding.
- Risk Management Agency (RMA): For insights into crop insurance and risk mitigation strategies.
Registration is required for all attendees. While there is a fee for the in-person experience in Arlington, the virtual attendance option is free to the public, ensuring that producers across southern Indiana and the rest of the country can access this critical data from their own homes.
| Attendance Type | Cost | Location |
| In-Person | Varies (Includes meals/reception) | Crystal City Gateway Marriott, Arlington, VA |
| Virtual | Free | Online Livestream |
