Young Farmers Katie Sollman, Kyle McCarty, Brenda Sisung and Chris Heck (left to right) will compete in Michigan Farm Bureau's Final Four Discussion Meet.

LANSING, Nov. 25 — Four Young Farmers will face off virtually in Michigan Farm Bureau’s Final Four Discussion Meet on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 2:00 pm, livestreamed on MFB’s Facebook Page. The winner will be announced on Dec. 2 at 12:45 pm during MFB’s State Annual Meeting. The announcement will also be available on Michigan Farm Bureau’s Facebook page.

Competing for the coveted award are:

• Katie Sollman, Mecosta County
• Kyle McCarty, Sanilac County
• Brenda Sisung, Clinton County
• Chris Heck, Monroe County

The Final Four Discussion Meet contestants reached this pinnacle after competing against a total of 81 peers from 35 counties at the district-level. The results of those sessions led to the field of 26 who competed in this year’s virtual state-level event on Nov. 23 and 24.

This year's discussion topics addressed four current issues of concern among the agricultural community: 

• The decline in rural populations is accelerated by a poor farm economy. What solutions would enhance the vibrancy and economic sustainability of agriculture and rural communities?
• Is big data a big solution or big exposure? Technology tools are often cited as a method of increasing productivity and profitability, but there are liabilities that go along with technology. As young farmers and ranchers we are often first adopters. How do we ensure clear understanding of the risks and rewards of big data and smart farming?
• International trade is important to agriculture. We must continue working to build strong relations with existing customers while seeking out new trade partners to strengthen market stability. How can we enhance existing, and establish new and diverse foreign trading partners?
• The increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters creates additional risk for farmers and ranchers. What tools and production practices can be engaged to reduce climate and weather risks?

The winner of MFB’s 2020 Young Farmer Discussion Meet will receive $2,000 sponsored by AIS Equipment and will represent Michigan — again, virtually — in the American Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer & Rancher Discussion Meet in January 2021.

Each of the four state finalists will receive a Yeti Cooler, $400 cash prize, and branded luggage sponsored by Michigan Farm Bureau Health Services and the Michigan Foundation for Agriculture.

Discussion Meets are competitions that simulate a committee meeting in which conversation and active participation are expected from each participant. This competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems.