Nine county Farm Bureaus were honored for activities that had a significant impact on their communities or on Farm Bureau’s political influence and clout at the organization’s annual convention, held Dec. 13 and 14 in Fort Wayne.The nine counties received “Impact Awards” in one of four program areas: issue engagement, young farmers and youth, public relations and education, and influential organization. Winning counties earned $250, which can be used to help them continue to make a positive impact.
Applications were judged by staff members of Farm Bureaus from across the United States including Kentucky, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.
Issue Engagement
Benton County Farm Bureau was recognized for a meeting it sponsored that informed the community about laws that are in place to protect homeowners against losses caused by irrigation systems. The Farm Bureau provided steps for homeowners and landowners to be proactive in having their wells measured.
White County Farm Bureau helped a five-generation family farm gain permission to build and expand their current swine operation.
Young Farmers & Youth
Fayette County Farm Bureau sponsored “Youth Are Our Future Day,” one of 10 themed days during Connersville’s celebration of its 200th birthday.
PR & Education
Jasper County Farm Bureau provided grain rescue tubes to their four fire departments and provided classroom instruction and hands-on training for volunteers.
Shelby County Farm Bureau joined forces with the Shelby County Ag Promotion Committee to create a stronger volunteer effort and greater financial resources, resulting in greater outreach. One of the joint efforts is the Shelby County Ag Banquet.
Steuben County Farm Bureau held a breakfast for the public at a local farmers market to educate the non-farm public on the value of local agriculture and on the county Farm Bureau. More than 300 people attended.
Influential Organization
Cass County Farm Bureau hosted a luncheon following a county council meeting to educate elected county officials on what Farm Bureau was doing at the local, state and national levels. Eighteen elected officials attended.
Jay County Farm Bureau hosted a tour focused on and tailored specifically around local business leaders, decision makers and elected officials. The idea was to get these people onto farms to see firsthand each of the major agriculture sectors in Jay County.
Marshall County Farm Bureau hosted Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann during her quest to visit all 92 counties. The event took place in March 2013, and 144 people attended.