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The November 2018-April 2019 Discussion Guide for Community Councils includes six discussion topics, giving groups a few options for meetings scheduled through the winter and into spring. Participation from community council members ensures Ohio Farm Bureau continues to focus on critical issues, create better policy and help people work together to get things done.

Topics

Agricultural Labor and Federal Immigration Reform

Agriculture needs a program that functions as efficiently as the current free market movement of migrant farm workers while providing the security of a contractual relationship in areas where there is little migration. Having lost confidence in the H-2A structure as a framework for future success, Farm Bureau is seeking a new approach to ensure a legal, reliable, long-term workforce for all sectors of the industry. Discussion Guide

Biotechnology from Farm to Market

Despite rapid adoption by farmers and a strong scientific consensus that biotechnology does not pose health and environmental risks, regulatory burdens are slowing research and innovation of new biotech traits. In addition, activist groups are blocking science-based regulatory decisions, filing spurious lawsuits and advocating for labeling mandates. These actions are impacting the use of biotech and an effective production tool, as well as starting to erode U.S. agriculture’s leadership position in the international marketplace. Discussion Guide

Exploring Global Climate Change

Environmental organizations and some scientists contend that greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are the principal cause for an increase in average global temperatures. They argue that unless measures are taken to reduce these emissions, the cumulative effect over coming decades will result in adverse changes in the world’s climate and weather. AFBF policy recognizes there may be an increase in occurrences of extreme weather. It is not clear if this is due to natural global climate cycles or other factors, such as greenhouse gases. While AFBF has organization policy discussing climate change, should the Ohio Farm Bureau look more closely at the issue? Discussion Guide

Federal Regulatory Reform

Farm Bureau strongly believes that all Americans, including farmers and ranchers, need a regulatory system that is fair and transparent, adheres to the will of Congress, takes economic impacts into account, and respects our freedoms. How do you council members define “fair,” “transparent” and the “will of Congress?” Discussion Guide

Land Grant Universities – Strategies for Effective Partnerships

The Morrill Acts of 1862 and 1890 have created a system of over 300 institutions that bring science, technology and the arts to the American people. The Ohio State University was created under provisions of the 1862 legislation. In 2014 Central State University near Wilberforce, Ohio received designation as an 1890 land-grant institution.

Many states have successful partnerships between 1862 and 1890 land grant institutions. As their respective Extension programs work together, partnerships will be built, and new community engagement opportunities will be developed. Discussion Guide

Railroad Development in Ohio

No one can argue the importance of Class I and local rail transportation infrastructure to Ohio. Thousands of carloads of raw materials, agricultural products, fuels and finished consumer goods moved by rail touch thousands of jobs in Ohio. No one can argue that rail transportation has a variety of “growing pains,” too. While some Ohio communities have Class I train stoppages across key rail crossings, other towns with local lines concerned about what options, if any, they will have to economically transport materials if these railroads cease local operations. Discussion Guide

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Remember, participants are not limited to these materials – Feel free to discuss additional topics and issues generated from the local newspaper, other publications and/or key events happening in your neighborhood.

Keep in touch with Farm Bureau

Need some additional help? Contact your county Farm Bureau office for assistance.

Councils can access the council roster, meeting summary sheet and activity sheet forms online.

Remember to send council meeting forms and correspondence directly to the county Farm Bureau.

Many of Farm Bureau’s action plans started with conversation around a kitchen table, living room or front porch; lively discussion continues to develop using web applications, too.

To join a community council, contact the county Farm Bureau office.