Farm Bureau is recognized as the voice of agriculture, but what does that really mean? For me, it means representing a wide array of diversity in agriculture with one voice. Wisconsin agriculture is a $104 billion business. And we are proud that Farm Bureau represents members both large and small, organic and conventional and all different crops and animals. Our diversity is what makes Wisconsin agriculture special and also what makes Farm Bureau unique.
Sometimes people ask what Farm Bureau offers. However, that answer is far from simple, as we offer a long list of opportunities to get involved and develop as a leader.
Our volunteers’ passion for agriculture is the backbone of this organization. Whether you just want to volunteer once a year at the county fair food stand or take on a leadership role on the county Farm Bureau board, your options are endless.
As farmers and agriculturists, the ability to network with others is important. No matter your age, socializing is a key part of life. Farm Bureau provides occasions to connect throughout the year. Local and statewide events help build something we a very proud of within Farm Bureau — a network and a family.
Consider what you are most passionate about, and I guarantee Farm Bureau has a place for you. If you have a passion for working with students, our Ag in the Classroom program may be a great fit for you. This program connects volunteers with schools across the state to explain modern agriculture to young minds. Engaging our next generation of consumers is critical as farmers continue to be a smaller percentage of the population.
Farm Bureau provides resources, tools and training to help members carry our message.
For those farmers and agriculturists wanting to share how they protect water, soil and other natural resources, care for their animals through all types of weather, and provide food, fiber and fuel for others, we offer training and outlets to house these stories.
Our Young Farmer and Agriculturist program gives our younger members many networking opportunities and strengthens communication skills needed to engage others in agriculture. Likewise, the Promotion and Education program develops, implements and promotes the development of agricultural awareness while providing leadership development to the agricultural community.
The WFBF Leadership Institute is our organization’s premier leadership development program. This year-long training course develops strong and effective Farm Bureau leaders by strengthening their professional skillset, deepening their understanding of agricultural policy issues, and learning ways to engage with legislators and the media. Whether you are new to Farm Bureau or a seasoned board member, this program offers the opportunity for all Farm Bureau members to grow as a leader.
Perhaps policy is what piques your interest. Farm Bureau policy is derived from a grassroots development process by our members. This process gives our members an opportunity to implement changes as to what is impacting their farms and businesses.
While Farm Bureau strives to carry your message to Madison or Washington, D.C., we also offer many ways to help you advocate for yourself by getting in front of your representatives. Annually, we host Ag Day at the Capitol in Madison where hundreds of agriculturists meet with their legislators to explain how laws are impacting them on their farms.
Farm Bureau is known as a lobbying organization that helps Wisconsin agriculture stay strong, but we are so much more thanks to our dedicated volunteers and staff. I encourage you to consider the variety of programs we have to offer you as a member.
Farm Bureau is recognized as the voice of agriculture, but you are the voice of Farm Bureau. Whatever your passion, Farm Bureau has a seat for you.
Kevin Krentz was elected to the WFBF Board of Directors in 2012 to represent District 5, which includes Adams, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Juneau, Marquette, Waushara and Winnebago counties. In December of 2020, Kevin was elected as President of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation. Kevin and his family own a dairy farm in Berlin. He started his farming career when he purchased his father’s 60 cows in 1994. He grew the farm to 600 cows and 1,300 acres of crops.
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