The 2026 UBA Ag Outlook & Conference brought bankers and industry experts together on Feb. 25-26 in Richfield, Utah, for two days of timely insight and on-the-ground perspective.

The program featured an update from Amber Brown, deputy commissioner of the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, followed by a presentation on crop insurance from Brandon Willis of Ranchers Insurance. Utah State University Extension Specialists Andrew Anderson and Ryan Larsen delivered livestock and crop outlooks, providing practical analysis of market trends and production conditions facing producers across the state. The afternoon included tours of Cedar Ridge Dairy and Cowley Farm and Feedlot, offering attendees a firsthand look at local operations and innovation in action.

Day 2 opened with a federal policy update from Ed Elfmann of the American Bankers Association, who shared insights on developments in Washington impacting agricultural banking. State Veterinarian Dr. Amanda Price addressed disease threats to Utah livestock, followed by a state economic outlook from Marilyn Cannon of the Department of Workforce Services. Bret Turpin of Autonomous Solutions Inc. highlighted how robotics and automation are helping keep farms competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

The conference concluded with the story of Burns Saddlery, presented by President Braydan Shaw, along with tours of Burns Saddlery and Redmond Minerals — underscoring the strength, resilience and innovation driving Utah agriculture.

From policy to production, the conference reinforced the vital partnership between Utah’s agricultural community and the bankers who help it thrive.