Event

Event Details

The Wayne County Ag Success Team (AST) is hosting a ‘Farmer Listening Lunch’ on Tuesday, Jan. 26 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at RES Auction Services, 375 Fry Road, Wooster. The purpose is for AST members and the elected officials representing Wayne County to hear thoughts and concerns directly from Wayne County farmers. Lunch will be provided.  Doors open at 11 a.m. for social time and lunch with discussion starting at noon.

The AST is a network of farmers, farm support businesses, nonprofit organizations, elected officials, and government agencies interested in supporting and preserving our county’s farms. The group has been meeting in different forms since the early 2000s, but January’s meeting will be the second of its kind. The inaugural Farmer Listening Lunch took place in January 2026, and the AST has restructured the second meeting to better explore conversation on topics that farmers care the most about.

At this session, the elected officials, government agencies, and representatives from organizations like Ohio State University and Farm Bureau will be onsite, not to share info, but to hear directly from farmers.

“We are at a crossroads for our generational future. Many decisions will need to be made to keep the balance of what makes this county attractive and farming strong and successful,”  says AST member and farmer Roger Baker, who advocated for the special meeting. 

“Our county elected officials have had a history of supporting our vibrant ag industry and want to learn more about what is happening and the challenges behind our farm gates,” Baker noted.  “This listening session is needed; bring your concerns, ideas and potential solutions. Consider it a think tank for our future of agriculture in this county.”

Wayne County farmers of all types are encouraged to attend. To register, complete the electronic registration form. The registration form will be used to plan attendance for lunch as well as get feedback on what topics are important to spend time on at the meeting. Paper copies of the survey are also available at the Farm Bureau office, 2030 Portage Rd. and OSU Extension and Wayne Soil and Water at the County Admin Building, 428 W. Liberty St. You can also print and complete the paper form and return it to one of these offices.  Registrations are due by Jan. 15, 2027.

For more information, email [email protected] or call Lindsay Tournoux (Wayne County Farm Bureau) at 330-263-7456.