Together With Farmers is the theme of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation’s 99th annual meeting, Dec. 6 – 8 at the Columbus Convention Center and Hilton Downtown Hotel.

More than 600 attendees will be on hand as the state’s largest and most influential farm and food organization establishes its policy on important state and federal issues, elects leaders and recognizes the accomplishments of individuals and the organization.

Farm Bureau President Frank Burkett III and Executive Vice President Adam Sharp will address the delegates. They are expected to highlight some of the organization’s greatest accomplishments of the past year including reform of Ohio’s farm property tax laws, expanded efforts by farmers to protect water quality and assistance to members engaged in oil and gas, solar and wind projects in Ohio. Nationwide Chief Executive Officer Steve Rasmussen also will address the convention.

The organization’s priorities and positions for the coming year will be debated and voted on by 358 delegates who represent all 88 Ohio counties. Energy is expected to be a big topic with delegates discussing alternative energy policy, royalty payments to landowners and eminent domain challenges.

Delegates also will discuss the continuing role farmers are playing in protecting the environment. Farmers recognize the need to find balance between protecting water resources and maintaining efficient food production.

Delegates are expected to support OFBF’s continuing work on topics such as trade, immigration, crop insurance and federal conservation programs.

County Farm Bureaus that have carried out exceptional local programming will be recognized as will individuals who have made distinguished contributions to Ohio agriculture and Farm Bureau. Young Agricultural Professional leaders and contest winners will be honored, and finalists in the Discussion Meet competition will be selected. New initiatives by the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation will be introduced.

Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is to work together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities. Learn more about the organization at ofbf.org.

This is a news release for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Joe Cornely, 614-246-8230.

Farm Bureau connections
To grow a network and gain perspective and knowledge in the industry through personal and professional development has been invaluable. Every day I learn and grow.
Ryanna Tietje's avatar
Ryanna Tietje

Henry County Farm Bureau

Farm Bureau connections
Giving farmers a voice
The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

Giving farmers a voice
10-year campaign for safer roads
Farm Bureau is what really got the word out. It’s been one of their goals to get this done.
Bill and Charlotte Wachtman's avatar
Bill and Charlotte Wachtman

Henry County

10-year campaign for safer roads
Bringing the farm back to life
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
Gretchan Francis's avatar
Gretchan Francis

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

Bringing the farm back to life
Farm Bureau involvement
Because we are younger farmers just starting out, Farm Bureau has a lot of good opportunities and resources to help us grow in the future.
Hannah Kiser's avatar
Hannah Kiser

Sandusky County Farm Bureau

Farm Bureau involvement
Select Partner Program
Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Chad Ruhl's avatar
Chad Ruhl

Farm manager, CSI Insurance

Select Partner Program
Advocacy
So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Mary Smallsreed's avatar
Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

Advocacy
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