Greg McGlinch

 As a fifth-generation grain farmer, Gen Xer and father of four, I am sometimes bewildered by the current state of our government’s environmental plans for agriculture. I’m sure you’re like me and ask, “Why did the government pass that regulation, and did Uncle Sam actually converse with a farmer?” I generally follow it up with, “Who’s helping the farmer and educating our legislators?” I can confidently answer the second question, but I am still baffled by the first.

With Connor White (right), Congressman Warren Davidson’s legislative director.

My recent trip to Arlington, Virginia, a neighboring city to Washington, D.C., provided a clear answer on who is standing up for the American farmer and consumer. The American Farm Bureau Federation has been a pillar in Washington, D.C., working to develop policy and educate our governmental leadership to ward off issues that affect American farms. I experienced firsthand, along with 13 other farmers from around the US, the work it takes to address issues impacting agriculture and develop policy based on sound science and real-world practices. As a member of American Farm Bureau’s Environmental Regulations Issues Advisory Committee, we discussed an array of environmental issues, with our main discussion focused on the recent Enlist bans peppered across US counties. By the end of our meetings, we had etched numerous policies on paper to present to our fellow Farm Bureau members. As one member stated, “We’re a grassroots organization; let’s bring the information home!”

As my flight from Reagan International Airport departed into the night sky, I left with a greater confidence that the environmental efforts of farmers and ranchers are heard through the halls of Capitol Hill. Farmers need to continue to tell our story and be cheerleaders of our profession, so that our voices do not become murmurs in D.C. 

To answer the question, “Uncle Sam, do we have an issue?” No, not at all. Farmers are strong, passionate and care for the land as it’s their livelihood and legacy.

New and beginning farmers
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.
Greg McGlinch's avatar
Greg McGlinch

Darke County Farm Bureau

Growing Tomorrow Grant
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.
Nathan and Jill Parriman's avatar
Nathan and Jill Parriman

Clermont County Farm Bureau

Bringing the farm back to life
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

Youth pathways in 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.
Wyatt Morrow's avatar
Wyatt Morrow

Clinton County Farm Bureau

Giving farmers a voice
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

Select Partner Program
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

Advocacy
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

Suggested Tags: