clark

This past Friday, I had the opportunity to attend Clark County Farm Bureau’s annual public policy meeting. One of the things that I have always found interesting about Ohio Farm Bureau is the ties to policy within the organization. It was very intriguing to watch the policy side of Farm Bureau come to life right before my eyes.

Many established members of Clark County attended this meeting. Some individuals in attendance included: Farm Bureau members, County Commissioners, County Auditor, Soil & Water, Sen. Bob Hackett, Rep. Kyle Koehler, Nationwide Insurance representatives, Clark County Sheriff, County Recorder, Congressman Warren Davidson’s office and many others.

While the gathering started with soft chit-chat and warm smiles among the attendees, once the meeting officially came to order it was time for business. Each individual in attendance raised a concern or an idea that they would like to see fixed or created — with the help of Clark County Farm Bureau.

As our meeting was held bright and early at 7:30 a.m, attendees were welcomed to the breakfast that they could enjoy while listening to others speak. While every person in attendance had an original thought, many belonged in the same category.

They spoke about nutrient management, drainage systems, mental health, a chemical redemption program, the ongoing issue with erosion and the need to spread awareness regarding the algae blooms and farmers. It was made known by Sen. Bob Hackett that farmers are doing things correctly in regards to the algae blooms. Senator Hackett also went on to say the stigma surrounding agriculture and the blooms does not stem from the farmers’ current actions.

During this policy meeting it was reassuring to see the care for Clark County that each attendee possessed. While they were speaking, you could truly see the passion and interest they put into all the topics they addressed.

While this was only my first policy meeting being a Farm Bureau intern, I look forward to hearing more ideas and areas of concern that each county possesses.

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
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
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
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
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
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
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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