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Belmont County Farm Bureau held its 2026 annual meeting of members on Tuesday, Aug. 18 at the Wise Building, Belmont County Fairgrounds, St. Clairsville, led by County Farm Bureau President Em Mowrer.

During the business session, members voted on proposed policies and elected trustees to the county board, as well as delegates to represent the county at the 2027 Ohio Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

Prior to the business session, dinner was catered by Nancy Z’s Catering. Key policy discussions focused on local, state and national agricultural issues, including injection wells, water and sewage expansion, property taxes and several others.

Again, this year was the inclusion of several area sponsors and displays which the approximate 135 Farm Bureau members and guests were able to view prior to the meeting. Belmont County SWCD provided educational information. Gold Sponsors were Ascent Resources, D&J Sales & Service Inc, Dutton Land & Cattle Company, Kirkes’ Homemade Ice Cream, and Ohio Hills Health Centers. Silver Sponsors included, Johnson Insurance Agency, Kemp Insurance a Division of Tuscarawas Insurance Agency, WVU Medicine Barnesville Hospital, and Zion Retreat. Bronze Sponsor were American Legion Post 168, Belmont Mills Inc., Burkhart Nursery, J-Mo Meats, Joe’s Tire, Riesbeck’s Food Markets, Inc., and Woodsfield Savings Bank.

Organization Director Miranda Miser stated, “Farm Bureau depends on volunteers to accomplish our goals and policies. Belmont County has dedicated volunteers that carry out numerous community programs.”

Leah Curtis, Associate General Counsel for Ohio Farm Bureau presented on property taxes.

Outstanding board attendance winners were Richard Johnston, Em Mowrer, and Frank Shaffer.

President Em Mowrer presented the Glenna Cain Distinguished Service Award to Leroy Carpenter for his dedication over many years to Belmont County Farm Bureau. 

2026 Scholarship recipients Lydia Fuchs and Breanne Workman were recognized.

Thank you to Burkhart Nursery (flowers), Rick Johnston (homemade honey), Em Mowrer (homemade honey), Gordon Price (wine) and the Winland Family (vegetable baskets) for donating our door prizes.

Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is working together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities.

If you are interested in joining Belmont County Farm Bureau or learning more about local advocacy, please contact the county office at 740-425-3681 or by email [email protected].