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Young farmers came to central Ohio in early July to learn more about how Farm Bureau works and how they might get involved.

The 2005 Summer Young Farmer Conference "Farm Bureau Las Vegas" featured remarks from Bob Peterson, OFBF president.

Peterson encouraged the young farmers to get involved in Farm Bureau. He said his first Farm Bureau memories are from tagging along to his parents’ advisory council meetings. When he and his wife, Lisa, first married, they wanted a similar experience for their children. Their council has been meeting for 15 years, creating lifelong friendships and connections.

He also encouraged the young farmers to participate in Farm Bureau to make sure farmers aren’t legislated, regulated or developed out of agriculture. "We have to be involved politically," he said. "I would suggest it takes an organization, a collective body," to get changes made.

"Together we can accomplish what an individual farmer can’t do," he said.

He said Farm Bureau gets things done through people. "We need your involvement at the county level. Call your OD and say ‘I wanna help,’" whether by volunteering to be a committee chairman, starting an advisory council, competing in the Discussion Meet or completing a young farmer application.

"Many hands make light work," he concluded. "I encourage you to get involved."

Other speakers included Jack Fisher, OFBF executive vice president; Sparky Weilnau, OFBF first vice president and Farm Bureau staff members Chip Nelson, director of advisory councils and Tracee Swank, director of political education.

Young farmer contest information
As Peterson referred to in his remarks, there are contest opportunities available for young farmers.

Aug. 1 is the deadline to register to compete in the Discussion Meet, a contest to determine who has the best ability to lead group discussions to cooperatively solve problems. This year's semifinal competition takes place Aug. 15 at the OFBF Leadership Conference in Columbus. Four finalists will be chosen to compete at the state finals during the OFBF annual meeting.

Outstanding Young Farmer
Scoring in this contest is based on farming operation, leadership and organization involvement. Four state semifinalists, single or couple, regardless of region, will be selected from county winners. Semifinalists will undergo a personal interview at the state finals judging.

Excellence in Agriculture
The Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes young farmers who do not derive the majority of their income from an owned agricultural operation. However, they are actively contributing and growing through their involvement in Farm Bureau and agriculture. The award may be appropriate for ag teachers, Extension agents, soil conservation scientists and those who are farm employees. Four state semifinalists, single or couple, regardless of region, will be selected from county winners. Semifinalists will give a power point presentation at the state finals judging.

Deadlines for the Young Farmer and Excellence in Agriculture contests vary by county. Contact your county office for all contest details.

All state winners will be announced at the OFBF annual meeting Nov. 30 to Dec. 2 in Columbus. State winners advance to the AFBF competition in Nashville Jan. 8 to 11, 2006. State prizes include cash awards and gift certificates. National winners earn new Dodge vehicles.

Caption: OFBF President Bob Peterson spent some time with the Young Farmer Committee prior to his presentation during the summer conference. In his remarks, he encouraged young farmers to get involved in Farm Bureau.