Throughout the spring and summer, Young Farmers meet across the state to discuss issues crucial to the success of Michigan agriculture.
Many of this year’s Young Farmer Discussion Meets also include additional activities to help participants build better relationships in their community, from tours to laser tag to bonfires.
Discussion Meets are leadership competitions designed to help Young Farmers practice their conversational skills, which come in handy every time you want to chime in at a county Farm Bureau meeting, school board, or just around the kitchen table.
If you’re new to Discussion Meets, check them out — even if only to listen in on the conversation and cheer on your peers — then join in on the fun the next year!
This year’s district-level topic is:
Growth in rural areas can strain rural energy infrastructure. How can Farm Bureau work with stakeholders to advocate for proactive planning at the local, state and national levels that safeguards affordable, reliable energy access for farmers and ranchers as well as their rural neighbors while protecting farmland from unnecessary eminent domain?
Every district will discuss the same topic, however, a back-up topic and the full topic list for the state contest are in the guidebook (and online) in case there are enough participants for a second round.
So gather your thoughts ahead of time — prepared notes are welcome — and bring your ideas and your enthusiasm.
Participants advancing from the district level can win serious prizes at the state level: The winner bags $2,000, professional attire and the chance to compete in the national competition next January in Charlotte, North Carolina, sponsored by Harvest Solar.
Check online for district dates, rules and more information.
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