By Jamie Martin
The American Farm Bureau Federation will recognize 24 county Farm Bureaus at its 107th Annual Convention in Anaheim, California, from January 9 to 14. The counties were chosen through the County Activities of Excellence program for their meaningful community-focused initiatives.
“It’s a joy to celebrate these innovative, volunteer-driven efforts,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “These county leaders are dedicated to building connections that support rural communities and help bridge the gap between agriculture and urban life.”
Many counties focused on youth development. Geneva County in Alabama formed a Farm-City Youth Council to guide students into agricultural involvement. DuPage County in Illinois encouraged students to grow food at home using container gardening activities.
Kansas counties earned recognition for several creative programs, including farmers markets for youth, summer agriculture camps, livestock learning summits, and senior nutrition programs. Kentucky’s Harlan County introduced a countywide agriculture and forestry career field week to inspire future professionals.
Michigan’s Livingston County supported educators by offering continuing education programs tied to agriculture. Ohio received the highest number of awards for programs promoting mental health for farmers, agricultural teacher conferences, tire recycling events, holiday family activities, and hands-on classroom agriculture kits.
Oklahoma counties organized recycling programs for hay wrap and community block parties to engage families. Oregon’s Klamath-Lake County hosted an annual pancake supper that celebrates members and builds community support. Texas counties were honored for youth leadership development, legal education workshops for landowners, and retreats for agricultural agents.
Virginia’s award-winning programs included year-round school gardens and farmland preservation education efforts in fast-growing communities.
Visitors attending the convention are encouraged to visit the counties’ booths on the trade show floor to explore these award-winning programs. Together, these initiatives demonstrate how local Farm Bureaus are shaping strong rural communities, promoting agricultural education, and building leadership for the future.
Photo Credit: american-farm-bureau-federation
Categories: National