Ohio Farm Bureau introduces Energy and Utility Issues Resource Guide
Ohio Farm Bureau’s newest resource for members seeks to help farmland owners navigate the many questions surrounding energy development.
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Fred Cooke is originally from Shelby and grew up on his family’s farm located outside of town. He received his high school diploma from Shelby High School. After high school, Fred attended The Ohio State University where he received bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He is married to Lynn Cooke. Together they have three kids and several grandchildren. Besides Farm Bureau, Fred has been extremely involved in the community. He has been active with Shelby Public Health, his church, Richland County Soil and Water Advisory Committee, and the Shelby FFA where he was the previous ag teacher.
What and where do you farm? I raise chickens and grain in the Shelby area. I was also the agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor at Shelby High School until 2003.
How long have you been a farmer? I have been a farmer my entire life.
Why did you decide to be a farmer? I decided to be a farmer because I was raised as a child into farming.
What do you love about farming? I love the freedom that farming brings.
Why do you think it is important to know where your food comes from? I think it is important to know where your food comes from so you appreciate the hard work put into your food.
Why are you active (the biggest benefit) in Farm Bureau? I am active to promote agriculture.
What is your favorite Farm Bureau event or activity? My favorite Farm Bureau event is the county fair.
What Farm Bureau programs are you most active in? I am active in all of the Farm Bureau programs.
What are your hobbies besides farming? Besides farming, I enjoy fishing and spending time with my grandchildren.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? I would like to travel all around the world and see everything.
The plan we are on is great. It’s comparable to my previous job's plan, and we are a sole proprietor.
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.
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.
Farm Bureau is what really got the word out. It’s been one of their goals to get this done.
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
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.
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.
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