State YF Discussion Meet kicks off Nov. 8

No need to pay for another streaming service: Zoom in Nov. 8 to watch young leaders from across the state discuss solutions to agriculture’s most pressing issues in this year’s state-level Young Farmer Discussion Meet.

Almost 30 talented Young Farmers will showcase their discussion skills in the two preliminary rounds, vying for a spot in the Sweet Sixteen. The excitement builds as they aim for a chance to make it into the Final Four, which takes place live on stage Dec. 2, during MFB’s 2026 State Annual Meeting in Grand Rapids. Sponsored by Harvest Solar, the winner of the state contest will receive a trip to AFBF’s Annual Meeting in California to compete in the national contest, outfit with professional wear and pocket $2,000.

Discussion Meet contests simulate a committee meeting where active participation is key. Participants are evaluated on how they engage in thoughtful conversations on important agricultural issues. These leadership contests hone participants' discussion and collaboration skills.

Preliminary rounds take place virtually on Zoom and are open to the spectators. 

Here are the two topics participants will address in this year’s preliminary rounds:

• Farmers and ranchers are at the forefront of environmental stewardship. From soil health to local ecosystems, producers are concerned about how to be both environmentally and financially sustainable. How can farmers and ranchers effectively advance environmental stewardship while balancing the needs of their farms?
• There are numerous resources available to support seamless farm and ranch succession planning. How can Farm Bureau help increase understanding, access and utilization of tools and resources that help facilitate the smooth transition of land and capital from one generation to the next?

The contestants moving on to the Sweet Sixteen competition will be announced at 7 p.m. EST Nov. 8 on MFB’s Facebook page.

Want to cheer on your district’s competitors? Visit the State Annual Meeting Discussion Meet page and register for any preliminary round you’d like to watch by clicking on the link. 

Rooms may have last-minute adjustments due to potential contestant changes. Contact Megan Sprague at [email protected] with questions.