Young Farmer Discussion Meets: Welcoming gateways into a new community, family

Over the past few weeks as one of Michigan Farm Bureau’s summer interns, I’ve discovered a side of the organization I wasn’t familiar with. Through local events, discussion meets and genuine conversations, I’ve come to see that the heart of the organization is its people. 

On June 26 I attended my first Young Farmer Discussion Meet in District 2. More than just a learning experience, it was a moment of realization. Hosted by River Dell Venue, a beautiful event barn owned by Calhoun County members Afton and Branden Maksimchuk, the tone was set for a memorable evening.

I ran the sign-in table, which allowed me to greet everyone as they walked in. As an outsider from another district, I was initially nervous. But after a few handshakes and short conversations, it quickly became clear this wasn’t just a Discussion Meet, it was a gathering of people who genuinely care about supporting each other. 

I wasn’t the only newcomer. Several attendees mentioned this was also their first Farm Bureau meeting. It was inspiring to watch them connect with active members, asking questions and starting conversations. There was an energy in the room that made you want to be a part of it — not just for the evening, but long-term. 

After pizza and some conversation, Chris Sanford, District 2’s representative on the State Young Farmer Committee, kicked off the main event, beginning with introducing the contestants. 

Three individuals with unique backgrounds and varying levels of experience took to the front of the room. Competing for the first time was Ryder Cornett of Hillsdale County. Alongside Ryder were long-time participants Kelsie Letts of Calhoun and Abby Vittore from Lenawee County. Judges Katie Kelly, Kim Kerr and Brian Sanford were introduced, and the discussion began.

After their opening remarks, the trio began addressing the question: 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? 

What developed wasn’t a debate or a performance; it was a conversation, rooted in real-life experience, shared values and a common drive to solve problems facing agriculture.

What stood out to me the most was how natural it all felt. These weren’t rehearsed speeches or facts recited from a list. It was more like the kind of conversation you’d hear at the local coffee shop or around the dinner table during a holiday with your family. The contestants listened to each other, agreed on some things and came up with creative ideas — together.

One standout moment came when Vittore suggested large-scale solar panels may not be ideal for agriculture, but could still offer conservation opportunities involving cover crops or creating habitat for pollinators and wildlife. 

“With agriculture in general, we need to keep an open mind about the way we work with the cards we’re dealt, thinking what can we do to make the best of this,” she said.

Letts agreed and expanded on Vittore’s idea:

“Maybe there’s a way for Farm Bureau to help us build that bridge and reach out to solar companies so farmers can work with them.”   

Their exchange helped highlight how innovation often begins with a simple question and a willingness to think outside the box. 

By the time the discussion wrapped up, I had two major takeaways. 

First: Even though a Discussion Meet might seem intimidating, it’s really just about having a good conversation and sharing ideas. The competitors were so engaged it seemed like they forgot there was even an audience. 

Second: It’s never too late to try something new. Whether it’s meeting new people, joining your county Farm Bureau, or competing in your first Discussion Meet, you don’t need years of experience to start making an impact.

Farm Bureau is more than just an agricultural organization, it’s a community where farmers, students, professionals and newcomers come together with one goal in mind: shaping a better future for agriculture. 

As I look forward to watching these competitors advance to the Nov. 8 preliminary rounds, I’m also looking forward to continuing my own journey with Farm Bureau.

Washtenaw County native Lilianne Trinkle is currently interning with Michigan Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Promotion & Education departments.