CAMP HILL, Pa. — Pennsylvania Farm Bureau has increased its overall membership for the 20th consecutive year, allowing the statewide farmer-run organization to reach an all-time membership high of 62,005 members.
“Farm family volunteers are the key to our grassroots organization, because they not only take time from their busy schedules to speak out on behalf of agriculture, they also help grow our membership by encouraging others in the agricultural community to join Farm Bureau,” said PFB President Rick Ebert. “During a time when profit margins are tight for many farmers due to challenging milk and grain prices, it is impressive that we have been able to maintain and grow our member base.”
PFB noted that a vibrant and proactive membership makes Farm Bureau even more influential by presenting a unified message to policymakers at the state and national level.
“Our farmers go out of their way to be available and responsive to elected officials by inviting lawmakers to tour their farms and visit them during trips to Washington D.C. and Harrisburg. During those visits, farmers discuss challenges and opportunities and provide elected officials an opportunity to learn more about how impending legislation or proposed regulations can impact a farmer’s ability to produce food or remain economically viable,” said Ebert.
Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, which increased its total membership by 77 over the past year, also aggressively represents agriculture as a member of dozens of government advisory boards and industry groups.
“Our comprehensive work agenda encompasses all of agriculture by advancing public policies that further improve food safety and the environment, while strengthening local economies,” said Ebert.
— Pennsylvania Farm Bureau