LITTLE ROCK — Farmers, ranchers and agricultural leaders from across the state will come together for Arkansas Farm Bureau’s 83^rd annual convention, set for Nov. 29-Dec. 1 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson, author Haydn Shaw, humorist Patrick Henry and Arkansas Farm Bureau President Randy Veach headline the speakers for the convention. The event is expected to attract more than 1,000 farmers and ranchers, and will include workshops on state and federal tax reform, forestry certification, labor and food safety issues, and legislative initiatives along with discussions that cover management and profitability for livestock and row crop producers.

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge will serve as keynote speaker for the Women’s Leadership luncheon that is planned as part of the convention. Additionally, the conference will include a trade show that features vendors of farm services, equipment and supplies.

The convention’s theme, “Leading Across Generations,” will be reinforced by Shaw, author of “Sticking Points: How to Get 4 Generations Working Together in the 12 Places They Come Apart.” Shaw will discuss generational differences, similarities and how to find the common bonds that can lead to organizational success.

Farm Bureau’s annual business session, where voting delegates define the organization’s policy positions on items of importance to Farm Bureau members, will culminate the event. The delegate body also elects the organization’s president and vice president during the business session.

“It is encouraging to see leaders across Arkansas – from every county and segment of agriculture – who want to be a part of Farm Bureau,” said Veach, a third-generation farmer from Manila (Mississippi County), who is concluding his ninth year as president of the organization. “Understanding generational differences will help support the future of family farms as well as Farm Bureau.

“Plus, the business of Farm Bureau is one of the most inspiring parts of our state convention. The policies we adopt are the result of a grassroots effort that includes input from all over the state. These policy positions will guide us as we advocate on behalf of the men and women of agriculture and rural Arkansas.”

Awards will be presented to county Farm Bureaus for their work in support of the organization’s agricultural advocacy and membership efforts, along with recognition for ArFB’s Ag in the Classroom teacher of the year, the ag education instructor of the year and the Young Farmer & Rancher Discussion Meet. The organization will recognize the recipient of the Stanley E. Reed Leadership Award.

Arkansas Farm Bureau is a private advocacy organization of more than 190,000 families throughout the state working to improve farm and rural life.

For more information, contact:

Steve Eddington
(501) 228-1383
steve.eddington@arfb.com

 or

Rob Anderson
(501) 228-1640
rob.anderson@arfb.com