Menu

Who we are:
Young farmers are OFBF farmers age 35 or younger who are interested in improving the business of farming, learning new ideas, and developing important leadership skills. The OFBF believes that its future, as well as the future of all agriculture, hinges on the involvement of young farmers.

What we do:
Have you ever felt you, as a young farmer, are all alone out there? You’re not! Our Young Farmers program brings together thousands of young farmers across the state to address shared challenges, such as trying to get established in business, raising a family, and dealing with the constantly changing climate of agriculture. Young Farmers recognizes personal and professional achievements of its members while offering social and networking opportunities.

Leadership opportunities:
Young Farmer county leaders, with the assistance of the OFBF and county staff, help to plan and organize local young farmer events. Additionally, two young farm couples from each of the four state regions are selected by the OFBF Board of Trustees to serve on the Young Farmer Committee. Members of this committee serve a two-year term and are involved in planning young farmer programs and conferences.

Events, awards and conferences:
Winter Leadership Development Conference – This annual conference offers information, education, fun, and relaxation while allowing young farmers to meet other young farmers from across the state.

Outstanding Young Farmer/Young Farm Couple Awards – These awards are designed to recognize successful young farmers for achievement in business and farming and leadership in the agricultural community. One farmer or farm couple from each state region are honored at the annual meeting in December. State winners earn a trip to Washington D.C. to meet American Farm Bureau leaders.

Excellence in Agriculture contest– This award is designed to recognize successful young farmers (singles or couples) who are actively contributing and growing through their involvement in Farm Bureau and agriculture. Applicants must not have derived a majority of their income from an owned production agriculture enterprise for the past three years

Discussion Meet – This annual program provides a forum for small groups of individuals to analyze agricultural problems and propose solutions. The Discussion Meet finals are held at the OFBF annual meeting in December, and the winner participates at the American Farm Bureau annual meeting.

Young Farmer Resources:

Young Farmer Involvement Opportunities(pdf).

OFBF 2008 Summer Reach Out events

2008 Young Farmer Contest brochure(pdf)

2008 Excellence in Agriculture contest application