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Ohio Farm Bureau Young Ag Professionals and members of AgriPOWER Class XVI recently traveled to Washington, D.C., for a firsthand look at agricultural policy, advocacy and leadership in the nation’s capital. 

The annual Washington, D.C. Leadership Experience brings together Farm Bureau members from across Ohio to strengthen their advocacy skills, learn more about the federal policy process and share their experiences directly with policymakers. 

The trip began with an advocacy crash course from Ohio Farm Bureau staff focused on how the organization’s grassroots policy process translates into action at the state and federal levels. Participants discussed the role of advocacy, how the federal government works, current legislation impacting farmers and rural communities and the importance of sharing individual stories. 

Capitol Hill visit preparation

Rep. Miller, Taylor and Turner visit prep

Rep. Michael Rulli [R- OH 6] office visit

Rep. Warren Davidson [R-OH 8] office visit

Those conversations helped prepare members to bring their personal experiences and Farm Bureau policy to Capitol Hill, where they met with members of Ohio’s congressional delegation and their staff. 

“Advocacy is most effective when policymakers can hear directly from the people impacted by the decision they make,” said Aubrey Roller, AgriPOWER Class XVI. “Being in Washington gave us the opportunity to bring our experiences and Farm Bureau policy directly to those conversations while also gaining a better understanding of the policy process and how we can continue to be effective advocates at home.”  

Outside of Capitol Hill, participants gained a broader perspective on policymaking and agriculture. 

AgriPOWER Group	Young Ag Professionals Group

Young Ag Professionals visited the Embassy of Australia to learn more about the relationship between the two countries and gain an international perspective on agriculture, trade and policy. The group also visited the America First Policy Institute for discussion on policy and the way think tanks work in Washington, D.C.

Members of AgriPOWER Class XVI had additional opportunities to see federal policymaking firsthand, including a visit to the White House Eisenhower Executive Office Building and the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture.

Capitol Hill visit goal setting

House Ag Committee visit

White House Staff in Eisenhower Executive Building

Group outside White House Eisenhower Executive Office Building

The Washington, D.C. experience builds on Ohio Farm Bureau’s investment in developing strong leaders and advocates for agriculture. 

Young Ag Professionals programming provides leadership, professional development and networking opportunities for Farm Bureau members ages 18-35. AgriPOWER is a yearlong leadership program that gives participants a deep understanding of Ohio agriculture, strengthen their leadership skills and become more effective advocates for agriculture.