GFB Young Farmer Program Brochure

Competitive Events

Georgia Farm Bureau

Young Farmer Program The Discussion Meet This contest is designed to develop fundamental abilities in young members by increasing basic discussion skills as young farmers, developing a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and exploring how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. Each pre-determined topic is addressed in a format that challenges contestants to listen to all points of view before formulating their stance on an issue.

The Achievement Award This award recognizes the accomplishments of young Farm Bureau members in production agriculture and leadership achievement.

Participants are involved in production agriculture with a majority of their income subject to normal production risks.

Competitors are judged on their farm operation and growth, the financial progress of the operation and their Farm Bureau and community leadership.

Purpose

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he purpose of the Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmer Program is to contribute to the overall effectiveness of Georgia Farm Bureau by providing leadership, educational and social opportunities, thereby preparing and enabling young adults to become more active members and to assume additional roles of leadership and responsibility within county, state or national Farm Bureau organizations.

For more information on any events or activities of the Young Farmer Program, please contact: Georgia Farm Bureau Field Services PO Box 7068 Macon, GA 31209 478-474-0679 ext. 5230 yf@gfb.org; www.gfb.org/yf

What is the Young Farmer Program?

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he Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmer Program brings young adults (18-35 years of age) together from across Georgia to increase their participation in Farm Bureau activities and increase leadership abilities. The program is for young Farm Bureau members who have an interest in agriculture and wish to become more active in the organization. The mission of the young farmer program is to surface and develop the next generation of agricultural leaders for leadership roles in Georgia Farm Bureau and their individual communities.

Why should I get involved?

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oung farmers are the future of agriculture.

Staying informed and educated about agricultural issues will better prepare you to take actions that benefit your family, farm operation and the agricultural industry. Building a network of support and influence in Farm Bureau will enhance your development as both an agricultural producer and an individual.

Your involvement in the Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmer Program expands the opportunities you have to make a difference in your agricultural operation and your community by providing opportunities to:

State Convention

Young Farmers to Washington

• I nteract and exchange ideas with fellow young farmers, ranchers and agricultural supporters • Develop leadership skills • Learn through educational conferences • Attain the latest information regarding issues and challenges affecting agriculture and farm families • Tell your agricultural story

Program Activities State Young Farmer Committee A two year opportunity to represent your local district on the state young farmer committee.

National networking, leadership development skills, lifelong relationships and travel opportunity are a small part of this experience.

District and County Activities Provides various activities including farm tours, educational trips, farm safety training, seminars, dinners, cookouts, cattle shows and fun for the entire family. These activities generate fun, education and wonderful social opportunities.

Offers award competitions, trade show, special recognition and network opportunities.

This annual trip takes place each March as approximately 30 young farmers from all over Georgia embark upon our nation’s capitol to discuss current agricultural policies with Senators and Congressmen. Young farmers gain an appreciationof how our federal government operates and how Farm Bureau works to enhance agriculture from a national and global perspective.

Leadership Conference Each July the Young Farmer Committee hosts the YF Leadership Conference.

Young farmers from across Georgia gather together for a weekend of competition, networking, socializing and learning as we discuss local and national issues affecting agriculture.