YOUNG FARMERS AND RANCHERS EVENT

By Jim Frankowiak

Hillsborough County Farm Bureau’s (HCFB) Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) recently held a gathering at the Keel & Curley Winery. The hostesses were recently elected YF&R Co-Chairs Brittany Coleman and Amber Boykin.

The event included a tour of the wine and cidermaking portions of the Keel & Curley operation, highlighting the source of blueberries in Florida and how their overall operation supports the state’s agricultural industry. Keel & Curley annually produces approximately 500,000 bottles of wine. In addition to participating in the tour and enjoying some Keel & Curley beverages, the attendees were given an overview of YF&R and the many opportunities the organization offers young farmers and ranchers between the ages of 18 – 35 at the local, state, and national levels.

“Among those opportunities is the chance to network, share ideas, participate in community projects and hone their leadership skills,” said HCFB Executive Kaylee Poppell. “Florida Farm Bureau has an array of opportunities for this group of young agriculturalists to become strong leaders for the future of agriculture.”

Florida Farm Bureau’s new District 6 Field Representative, Lauren Phillips, also discussed the YF&R Leadership Group which is currently seeking new members. “If anyone is interested, they should reach out to YF&R Co-Chairs Amber and Brittany or email info@hcfarmbureau.org for more information,” she said. They may also follow the YF&R page on Instagram: @hillsborough_yfr.