AMES, Iowa - Iowans can learn more about the role communities play in dealing with childhood weight issues at a conference in Ames later this month. The 2005 Preventing Childhood Overweight and Obesity Conference will be held March 28-29 at the Hotel Gateway Center.

"This is one of four conferences planned around the country to explore the youth obesity issue, review potential prevention strategies, and discuss ways to mobilize community, state and federal partners to work toward a common goal -- reducing and preventing childhood overweight and obesity," said Ruth Litchfield, Iowa State University Extension nutritionist.

The Ames conference is sponsored by Iowa State University and the Food and Society Committee (FAS) of the National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges (NASULGC).

"This conference is about sharing and learning from one another," said Rhonda Christensen, County Extension Education Director in Buena Vista County and ISU Extension administrative intern. "In addition to keynote speakers, breakout sessions and discussion time, participants will have an opportunity to see what people are doing through posters and exhibits."

Additional information is available from local ISU Extension offices and at http://www.ucs.iastate.edu/mnet/childhoodobesity/home.html, or contact University Conference Services at (515) 294-6222.