County Farm Bureaus recognized for outreach efforts
(SAN ANTONIO, Texas)—When it comes to agriculture and food, there are plenty of debates. But county Farm Bureaus pulled a seat up to the table—hosting events and activities to reach out to their communities to build relationships and share more information about modern agriculture.
Anderson, Cherokee and Washington County Farm Bureaus (CFBs) were recognized by Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) for their efforts. Anderson and Cherokee CFBs also were two of the 24 winners nationwide selected by the American Farm Bureau Federation for innovative program ideas in this year’s County Activities of Excellence Awards program.
“County Farm Bureaus reach out to their communities through various programs and activities throughout the year,” TFB President Russell Boening said. “We’re proud to recognize these three counties for their unique efforts to increase agricultural awareness with both children and adults.”
Each county chose an approach to connect with their community about agriculture.
Anderson CFB hosted a Young Farmer & Rancher (YF&R) Harvest Experience for 40 FFA and 4-H students.
The students were divided into groups and toured stations around the farm to learn how to grow and harvest corn. They learned about soil preparation, planting, fertilizing, managing pests and harvesting a crop. Students had the opportunity to operate the combine, sprayer and grain cart.
After they finished the various stations, they learned more about Farm Bureau and how they can get involved with agriculture at a local level.
The event was hosted by the county-based YF&R Committee with assistance from Anderson CFB board of directors.
Cherokee CFB held a youth agricultural advocacy training for FFA and 4-H students.
The event was held during the 86th Texas Legislature this year.
Through the event, Cherokee CFB aimed to engage the younger generation on the importance of agriculture and the need to advocate for the industry, while also communicating effectively with elected officials about agriculture.
The event gave students the opportunity to see firsthand how the government works and hear directly from legislators who represent rural districts about what they face while serving as leaders in the Texas Legislature.
The group met with Sen. Robert Nichols and Reps. Trent Ashby, Ernest Bailes and James White.
While attending the event, the students were invited to the House gallery and were recognized from the House floor for their attendance.
Washington CFB hosted a Summer Ag Tour with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service for 4-H students and their parents.
Students and parents were able to meet farmers, tour various farms and learn more about production agriculture.
As urban sprawl continues to impact Washington County, local CFB leaders took initiative to teach 4-H members about row crop production—something they often see driving through the county but don’t always know much about.
Many of the students who attended the tour did not have an agricultural background, so the visits with farmers enabled them to learn more about agriculture in their local community, as well as across the state.
Twenty-five 4-H members and 20 parents attended the tour.
Throughout the tour, they learned about the growth cycle of corn and cotton, technology used in agriculture, irrigation and harvesting the crops.
All three winning entries displayed booths at the TFB 86th Annual Meeting Dec. 7-9 in San Antonio.
Anderson and Cherokee CFBs will also be highlighted alongside other national winners during AFBF’s Annual Convention and Trade Show Jan. 17-22, 2020, in Austin.