Hills Bank plans program for ag professionals

RIVERSIDE — Hills Bank will host the 2026 Ag Outlook, a full-day conference designed to equip farmers, producers and agricultural business owners with the insights, strategies and tools needed to navigate today’s evolving ag economy.

The event will take place at the Riverside Casino and Golf Resort, 3184 IA-22, Riverside, March 4, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is free to attend with advance registration, said Hills Bank in a press release.

The 2026 Ag Outlook will include presentations from industry experts covering financial strategy, legal planning, weather risk and lending fundamentals.

Adam Hocker, founder of Future Profits Consulting, will explain how to elevate your operation with smarter risk management and financial reporting, the press release says.

Hocker brings extensive experience in farm financial strategy, risk management, production agriculture and profitability planning.

Travis Schroeder, an attorney with Simmons Perrine Moyer Bergman will talk about business, tax and estate planning in a sue-happy world. he will address essential business structures and protection strategies for farmers and agribusiness owners.

Janelle Johnson, a commercial banker, with Hills, will talk about understanding ag lending and what lenders look for and what producers should know.

Johnson will share key lending insights, including what financial indicators matter most and how producers can position themselves for long-term success.

Andrew Pritchard, weather-risk communication meteorologist with Nutrien Ag Forecasting will provide an in-depth look at upcoming weather patterns, risk mitigation, and severe weather preparedness for agriculture.

The day also includes a panel discussion, giving attendees a chance to engage with presenters and ask questions.

Register at hillsbank.com/ag-outlook.

Ag Outlook 2026 supporting sponsors Include: Advanced Tiling & Trenching, Ag Risk Insurance, Eldon C. Stutsman, Future Profits Consulting, Growthland, Hetz Farm Management, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, KDK Sales & Equipment, LattaHarris CPAs & Consultants, Peoples Company, and Sieren Auction Sales.