Applications for Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans now available
Members have three ways to apply: contacting a certified agent, calling 833-468-4280 or visiting ohiofarmbureauhealthplans.org.
Read More
Mike Townsley, president of the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, grew up on a farm, so it is no surprise that his career led him back to one as CEO and president of Bob Evans Farms, Inc., where he now serves as chairman. Townsley has dedicated his life to food and agriculture, starting in the meat industry. As president and CEO of Bob Evans Farms, Townsley led the company’s incredible growth in the refrigerated sides business. He believes in putting the right people in the right positions and empowering them to execute the vision that has been set for the organization.
Q: Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation continues to grow. What are you most excited about as the philanthropic organization really starts to come into its own?
One of my biggest priorities for our board this year is to increase our visibility by sharing our story — who we are, what we do and why our work is so vitally important to the future of Ohio agriculture. By sharing these stories, we will continue to grow our fundraising efforts and the impact we’re able to have in our communities, our region and throughout the state.
Q: You are president of the foundation board. Tell us a little about the make-up of the board and what’s in store for the year ahead.
The Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation’s 16-member board is one of the most energetic and diverse boards that I have had the pleasure of serving on and leading. We have representation from the Ohio Farm Bureau trustees, our Young Agricultural Professionals group (YAP), county Farm Bureaus, and a dynamic group representing some of the most successful Ohio-based businesses such as Nationwide, COSI, The Kroger Co. and Bob Evans Foods, just to name a few.
In 2021, the board will be focused on developing a strategic campaign plan that will propel us into 2022 and beyond. We want to establish set priorities and goals for the next three to five years that will enable us to grow our scholarship funds, increase our grant opportunities and support our innovative programming like ExploreAg.
Q: What would you tell anyone who is contemplating becoming a donor or active volunteer of the foundation?
I would say ‘join us!’ The Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation is a great way for individuals, families and businesses to support Ohio agriculture. We envision a future where tomorrow’s greatest leaders are passionate about and drawn to careers in agriculture, but we need incredible support to make it happen. Whether you choose to make a gift, participate in our annual Golf Invitational or volunteer your time with us, your partnership will result in a harvest of new leaders and innovation for tomorrow.
Finally, I would encourage those who are interested in learning more about the foundation or who are interested in making a gift to please visit the foundation website or contact our executive director, Kelly Burns, at [email protected] or 614-246-8275.
My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
We’re just so thankful for the Farm Bureau and the foundation for helping put this together. And of course, the Boyert family for the vision they had with this grant. It’s jumping us forward 10 years. It’s unbelievable.
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
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.
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.
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.
Featured Articles
What would Grandma and Grandpa have wanted?
These discussions should not begin and end with a developer’s offer. Identifying family goals now gives the family something to plan around.
Read More
Ohio Farm Bureau, partners pack 10,000 meals to kick off Food and Farms Month
Ohio Farm Bureau joined leaders from across Ohio’s food and agriculture industry this week to pack 10,000 meals for central…
Read More
Ohio Farm Bureau supports expanded use of dyed diesel
The administration recently issued an executive order easing restrictions on the use of tax-exempt dyed diesel fuel for on-road agricultural transportation.
Read More
Legal with Leah: Eminent Domain and Quick Take
Ohio Farm Bureau Associate General Counsel Leah Curtis explains how the eminent domain process works in Ohio, what ‘quick take’ means and when it can be used.
Read More
Ohio Farm Bureau statement on gas tax holiday
As fuel prices skyrocket across the state, lawmakers are preparing to return to the Statehouse to vote on the temporary suspension of Ohio’s gas tax.
Read More
Ohio’s 2026 top conservation farmers honored
Since 1984, the Conservation Farm Family Awards program has recognized Ohio farm families for their exemplary efforts conserving soil, water, woodland, wildlife, and other natural resources.
Read More
Growing our Generation: A life of service
Meet Joe Everett, a Shelby County Farm Bureau Young Ag Professional who has dedicated his life to service, both in uniform and within his local community.
Read More
How to prepare for a year-end conversation with your lender
A year-end review provides an opportunity to evaluate your operation’s financial position, discuss future goals and develop strategies for the upcoming season.
Read More
Ohio Farm Bureau releases new agritourism guide
Ohio Farm Bureau has created a new guide to help members better understand the laws, regulations and risk considerations that come with opening their farms to the public.
Read More