COLUMBUS, Ohio (OFBF) – Embracing a New Century is the theme of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation’s 101st Annual Meeting, Dec. 4 – 5 at the Columbus Convention Center and Hilton Columbus Downtown hotel.
More than 600 attendees will be on hand as the state’s largest and most influential farm and food organization establishes its policy on important state and federal issues, elects leaders and recognizes the accomplishments of individuals and the organization.
Ohio Farm Bureau delegates and members in attendance will hear from Gov. Mike DeWine at this year’s event. Among other topics of high interest to Ohio agriculture, Gov. DeWine will discuss plans for the newly unveiled H2Ohio water quality initiative.
Farm Bureau President Frank Burkett III and Executive Vice President Adam Sharp will address the delegates. They are expected to recap some of the organization’s achievements during its Centennial year including two of its highest priority issues: preservation of the business income tax deduction and a collaborative plan to address water quality challenges, which have been included in the state budget. Ohio Farm Bureau members also will celebrate more farm property owners experiencing savings from lower farmland tax rates as well as a new logo that pays homage to Ohio Farm Bureau’s original brand from 1919. Nationwide’s new Chief Executive Officer Kirt Walker also will address the convention.
The organization’s priorities and positions for the coming year will be debated and voted on by a record 381 delegates who represent all 88 Ohio counties. Protecting Ohio’s water is expected to be a big topic with delegates, who also will be discussing energy development, education and property rights. In addition, delegates are expected to support OFBF’s continuing work on topics such as trade, mental health, federal conservation programs and creating more opportunities for new and beginning farmers.
County Farm Bureaus that have carried out exceptional local programming will be recognized, as will individuals who have made distinguished contributions to Ohio agriculture and Farm Bureau. Young Agricultural Professional leaders and contest winners will be honored, and finalists in the Discussion Meet competition will be selected. New initiatives by the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation will be introduced.
Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is Working together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities. Learn more about the organization at ofbf.org.
— Ohio Farm Bureau Federation
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