USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack is returning to the Commodity Classic and will be joined this year by U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture Chairman Frank Lucas. The two will deliver keynote addresses during the General Session on March 4th in Tampa, Florida.

“We are honored to welcome two of the most respected and influential men in Washington on agriculture issues to Commodity Classic,” National Corn Growers Association President Bart Schott said. “With a new farm bill and election year looming, our growers will value their attendance and appreciate hearing about their positions on future farm policy.”

This is the 16th year for the Commodity Classic, where the U.S. corn, soybean, wheat and sorghum industries join forces. This year’s trade show will host nearly 900 booths showcasing the latest agricultural equipment, technology, products and services, and more than 4,500 are expected to attend. In addition to walking the trade show floor, participants will also have numerous opportunities to take part in policy discussions, view demonstrations and attend learning sessions.

American Soybean Association President Alan Kemper added, “It will be a pleasure to have both the Secretary and the new House Ag Chairman join us in Tampa. I am looking forward to hearing how the Administration and Congress are going to work together to support the President’s National Export Initiative (NEI) goal of doubling exports in the next five years.”