December 7, 2017
www.gfb.org
Vol. 35 No. 25
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU HOLDS 80TH ANNUAL CONVENTION About 1,500 Georgia farmers and agribusiness leaders from across the state met on Jekyll Island Dec. 3-5 for the organization’s 80th annual convention. The three-day event included a trade show and educational sessions that gave farmers updates on policy and production issues impacting Georgia’s major commodities. During the general session on Dec. 4, convention attendees heard from Gov. Nathan Deal, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter and Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black. While delivering his annual address to Georgia Farm Bureau members, GFB President Gerald Long said three of the organization’s top legislative priorities are obtaining a viable farm bill that strengthens the food security of the United States, defending farm water rights and protecting the rights of farmers and landowners from excessive government regulations. “For more than 80 years, Georgia Farm Bureau has been the voice of Georgia farmers. Addressing farm issues is basic to Farm Bureau’s Gerald Long purpose,” Long said. “A new farm bill is being developed for 2018, and farmers must speak with a united voice to have influence. Farmers’ The next issue of rights to use water will continue to be an issue in Georgia as the United GFB News Alert States Supreme Court will hear a case about water early next year that could have long-term impacts. Georgia Farm Bureau supports private comes out property rights, and we will work to reign in government agencies that December 19. overreach into the rights of farmers and landowners.” Long also outlined his vision for Georgia Farm Bureau through the year 2020 to inspire and educate today’s farmers, youth and consumers to preserve and promote tomorrow’s agriculture. “We will achieve our vision to inspire by increasing our educational outreach through investment in grants for agricultural research, which is one of the keys to Georgia’s agricultural success and educating students and consumers about agriculture,” Long said. “We will achieve our vision to educate by engaging and developing local volunteer leaders. We will achieve our vision to preserve by connecting and collaborating with our ag partners who share our vision.” GFB plans to increase its efforts to promote ag literacy in schools and educate consumers about the importance of agriculture, as part of its vision to inspire, Long said. As part of the organizations effort to engage and develop local leaders, Long announced GFB -continued on next page