106th Wisconsin Farm Bureau Annual Meeting

Igniting Your Life, Work and Legacy

Join Emily Reuschel for an interactive experience designed to spark self- reflection, meaningful connection and bold leadership. Through engaging storytelling, thought-provoking questions and facilitated conversations, you’ll explore what it truly looks like to shine bright and lead boldly — not just in your career, but in your personal life and the future of agriculture.

Emily Reuschel is a Soul Expansion Coach for Wild & Waking Women, guiding leaders, dreamers, and changemakers—particularly in rural communities—through the powerful journey of reclaiming their truest selves. As a farmer’s wife raising corn, soybeans, and three (soon to be four) young children in West Central Illinois, Emily understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with life and leadership in agriculture.

Through her work, Emily supports people in reconnecting with their inner wisdom, leading with purpose, and creating positive ripple effects in their families, communities and industries. Emily’s mission is clear: To guide others in reclaiming their truth, stepping into their power, and rising boldly as forces of lasting change in agriculture and beyond.

Joby Young serves as the Executive Vice President of the American Farm Bureau Federation. He leads the AFBF staff, managing across all departments to achieve the goals of the President and Board of Directors and fulfill AFBF’s mission. He will be joining annual meeting to share updates on what is happening with American Farm Bureau and highlight the accomplishments of the past year.

Joby has 15 years of experience in food and agriculture policy, which includes leadership positions in the halls of Congress and the Executive Branch. He served as Chief of Staff to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue after serving in that same role for the Deputy Secretary and several USDA offices. He also previously served as Chief of Staff in the House of Representatives and as a consultant in the private sector.

Joby is a graduate of the University of Georgia, with degrees in History and Communications, and he holds a law degree from the UGA School of Law. He is also a civil affairs officer in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Cheers to the New Year!

Join us in counting down the days to YFA Conference as we prepare to ring in the New Year! On Friday night, attendees are encouraged to dress to impress. Think tuxedos, suits, gowns and dresses. Sequins, gold and silver, too. Your attire should embrace the glitz and glam, but most importantly, the sparkle and shine in YOU. So, grab your hat and noisemakers and let’s “cheers” to a successful Farm Bureau year!

The evening will feature music, dancing, yard games and more. Prizes will be awarded for:

• Best Dressed Gentleman
• Best Dressed Lady
• Best Dressed Couple/Group
• Best Dressed Little Gentleman
• Best Dressed Little Lady
• Shine Bright, Lead Boldly Award

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music, mingling, and merry-making! Enjoy live tunes from The Rusty Hearts, refreshments, socialization and the always-exciting live auction benefiting the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation.

New this year: bring your best (or worst!) look for our Ugly Sweater Competition where festive prizes await! Don’t miss this night of fun, fundraising, and festive flair.

Saturday, Dec. 6
2-3 p.m. and 3:15-4:15 p.m.

Presented by: Joy Kirkpatrick, UW-Madison Division of Extension Farm Succession Outreach Specialist and Karen Endres, DATCP's Wisconsin Farm Center Farmer Wellness Program Coordinator

Gather a group and come to this session to play cards while learning how to use Mental Wellness Conversation Curriculum to take to family, neighborhood or countywide gatherings. The curriculum and cards are organized around 13 stress management themes with the goal of encouraging community conversations about mental wellness. Normalizing these types of conversations aids in reducing the stigma around mental wellness, making it easier for people to reach out if they, or someone else, needs assistance or wants to talk.

Saturday, Dec. 6
2-3 p.m.

Presented by: Kadence Senkowski, District 2 YFA Representative

This interactive session will bring together current Collegiate Farm Bureau members from UW–Madison, UW–Platteville, and UW–River Falls with Collegiate Farm Bureau alumni for meaningful networking and conversation. Designed to strengthen the connection between collegiate and county Farm Bureau involvement, this event will include guided discussion and activities to help students explore next steps after graduation and alumni share their leadership journey. Whether you're seeking advice, mentorship, or just want to grow your Farm Bureau network, this is your opportunity to make lasting connections and learn how to stay engaged in agriculture beyond college.

Saturday, Dec. 6
2-3 p.m.

Presented by: Wisconsin Farm Bureau's Promotion and Education Committee

Think your Farm Bureau journey slows down after YFA? Think again. This workshop will show you how to take your passion for agriculture and turn it into real influence in your county, community and beyond. More than just an introduction to the Promotion and Education program, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas, practical tools and a personal action plan to keep making a difference.

Saturday, Dec. 6
2-3 p.m.

Presented by: Jennifer Brockman, YouTube Content Creator, A Country Life

Through her YouTube channel, A Country Life, Jennifer Brockman has built a community sharing  her country life filled with cranberry farming, big batch cooking and canning, and homeschooling. Jennifer will unpack the importance of connecting with your online audience and building trust first, then setting revenue streams into place.

Saturday, Dec. 6
2-4:15 p.m.
*Please note that this session has an extended duration compared to other workshops.

Presented by:

Amanda Van Steenwyk, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation Farm Business Development Program Manager and Erin Herbold- Swalwell, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and Farm Bureau Financial Services Senior Counsel

Farm succession planning often centers on current farm owners—but what about the next generation? This interactive workshop is designed specifically for younger farmers ready to engage in the transition process but unsure how to begin. We’ll explore how to initiate respectful, productive conversations about succession without making parents or current owners feel pushed out. Participants will gain tools to navigate family dynamics, understand key succession concepts and feel more confident in their role as future farm leaders. Whether you're feeling stuck or just starting to think about the future, this session will help you take the first step.

Saturday, Dec. 6
3:15-4:15 p.m. 

Presented by: Nate Zimdars, WFBF Director of Local Government and Derek Orth, Grant County Farm Bureau and WisGO Team Member

Love it or hate it, politics affects every part of our lives. That’s why it is more important than ever to have positive relationships with your elected officials. Learn how you can begin building those relationships in the Capitol and in your own local community, ensuring state laws and local ordinances don’t negatively impact agriculture.

Saturday, Dec. 6
3:15-4:15 p.m. 

Presented by: Carl Hahn, Insight FS Agronomy Systems Specialist

Endure Carbon at Insight FS is about maximizing a grower's carbon assets on every crop, every acre, every year. When it comes to helping growers navigate and protect this new source of potential income, nothing can compare to the flexibility and ease of enrolling in Endure Carbon and letting Insight FS handle the rest.

Sunday, Dec. 7
8:30-9:20 a.m.

Presented by: Bradley Uken, WFBF Chief Administrative Officer

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s new value statement reflects who we are, what we do and why it matters. In this interactive workshop, participants will unpack the meaning behind WFBF’s commitment to being a unified voice for Wisconsin agriculture, shaping policy, developing members and engaging consumers. Together, we’ll discover how to bring these values to life in our counties, communities and conversations.

Sunday, Dec. 7
8:30-9:20 a.m.

Presented by: Chris Layton, DATCP Land & Water Resources Bureau Director and Katy Smith, DATCP Land & Resource Management Section Manager

Explore funding opportunities available to farmers through state and federal programs. Experts from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and USDA will guide attendees through the application process, tips for crafting competitive grant proposals and highlight success stories from other farmers. Whether you’re seeking financial support for conservation practices, equipment upgrades or expansion projects, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge to access critical funding.

Sunday, Dec. 7
8:30-9:20 a.m.

Presented by: Melissa Ploeckelman Brown, National Farm Medicine Center Outreach Specialist

Agritourism continues to grow in popularity, with over 70 million people visiting farms each year and almost 24 million of these visitors are children. While some visitors are buying fresh produce, others are learning about where their food comes from, enjoying a hayride, walking through a corn maze or choosing the perfect pumpkin. Whatever the reason for the visit, it is up to the farmers who invite visitors onto their farms to ensure the safety and health of the visitors. Join us as we share how implementing appropriate safety strategies can help reduce visitor injuries and illnesses, potentially reducing liability.

Sunday, Dec. 7
8:30-9:20 a.m.

Presented by: Jason Mugnaini, WFBF Executive Director of Goverment Relations; Chad Zuleger, Dairy Business Association; Stamena Mesec, Wisconsin Biofuels Association; Rebekah Sweeney, Wisconsin Cheesemakers Association; Jordan Lamb, The Welch Group

Get a first-hand look at how Wisconsin’s leading agricultural groups work together to shape the policies that impact your farm. This session will explore the strategy, structure and success of the Wisconsin Ag Coalition and why your voice as a Farm Bureau member is essential to agriculture's collective success. Hear directly from coalition leaders about legislative wins, ongoing battles and how grassroots action truly drives real results.

Sunday, Dec. 7
1:00 - 1:50 p.m.

Cheer on fellow Farm Bureau members as they compete in the second annual Farmers and Agriculturists Unlimited Discussion Meet! The contest will feature one member over the age of 35 from each of WFBF's nine districts. The winner will receive a cash prize and bragging rights for the year! Who will you be cheering for?

Sunday, Dec. 7
1:00 - 1:50 p.m.

Presented by: Kelly T. Wilfert, UW-Madison Division of Extension Farm Law Outreach Specialist

Navigating the legal landscape of farming can be complex and challenging. Join us for an insightful workshop designed to help Wisconsin farmers understand critical factors in selecting a competent and suitable lawyer for your farm's legal needs. This workshop will cover essential areas of legal expertise relevant to farming operations and share practical tips for interviewing and choosing the right attorney for your farm-related issues.

Sunday, Dec. 7
1:00 - 1:50 p.m.

Presented by: Ashley Schlender, Jefferson County Farm Bureau member and Dairy Farmer; Olivia Dearborn, Dairy Herd Manager

Farm Camp is a unique opportunity to invite children to your farm to learn about agriculture through hands-on activities. We will explore how Rural Mutual Insurance Company, Wisconsin Farm Bureau, Agriculture in the Classroom and other organizational resources can support your efforts. Whether you have been offering camp for years or just contemplating hosting a camp, this roundtable discussion is a chance to network with others to jumpstart new ideas for the next camp season.

Sunday, Dec. 7
1:00 - 1:50 p.m.

Presented by: Jeffrey Voltz, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Director - Office of Agriculture & Water Quality; Brian Weigel, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Deputy Administrator

The Office of Agriculture and Water Quality invite farmers to play a central role in shaping a nutrient management strategy that supports farm profitability and ensures healthy water for all Wisconsin families. Join us in a constructive conversation aimed at identifying practical approaches to support and expand the great conservation work happening across the state and at the local level.

Visit with representatives from Greenstone FCS, Compeer Financial and AgCountry FCS to learn more about the services available to Farm Bureau members.

Farm Credit is a Cultivate Level Sponsor of the WFBF Annual Meeting & YFA Conference.

Farm-To-Power a non-profit, non-partisan organization of rural advocates, formed to provide facts and further information about new rural opportunities in renewable energy. We provide information to farmers and rural landowners across Wisconsin to help them make informed decisions and secure their stable futures.

The Farmer Veteran Coalition empowers veterans to continue their service through agriculture, providing them with resources, training, and community to strengthen both our state’s farms and the families they sustain.

GrassWorks is a membership organization that provides leadership and education to farmers and consumers for the advancement of managed grass-based agriculture to benefit present and future generations.

GLALS is a full-service filing agency helping farmers secure reliable legal labor through the H-2A temporary visa program.

Great Lakes Ag Labor Services is a Farm Bureau Member Benefit Company.

Insight FS is an agricultural and energy business, serving customers from 23 locations in Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. We provide feed, agronomy, propane, fuels, lubricants, agri-finance, seed and turf products and services, as well as grain marketing, to our patrons. It is our mission to exceed your expectations in all we do, while bringing you innovative solutions and serve you as a trusted partner.

Insight FS is a Harvest Level Sponsor of the WFBF Annual Meeting & YFA Conference.

NFMC scientists and staff focus on injury prevention, injury surveillance, community outreach and education, the farm microbiome and human immunology, evaluation of programs, and mental well-being.

Rural Mutual Insurance has been keeping Wisconsin strong since 1934. As an insurance company exclusively for Wisconsin farmers, families, and business owners, we understand your needs and work as hard as you do to ensure you have the right policy that is best for you. Because we only do business in Wisconsin, we make sure that premiums paid here, stay here to keep Wisconsin strong.

Rural Mutual Insurance Company is a Presenting Sponsor of the WFBF Annual Meeting & YFA Conference.

From sports injuries to painful joint arthritis, unexpected accidents to chronic conditions, our Orthopedic experts are able to repair your injury, treat your pain and get you back to the activities you love.

TASC is a third party administrator for Health and welfare benefits. We assist businesses of all sizes to save money on their taxes by getting better tax treatment for their and their employee's medical expenses.

TASC is a Farm Bureau Member Benefit Company.

Visit the T-Mobile booth to learn more about the products and services available to Farm Bureau members.

T-Mobile is a Harvest Level Sponsor of the WFBF Annual Meeting & YFA Conference.

RESET helps communities and stakeholders engage with large-scale renewable energy siting, including resources for farmers considering solar energy leases.

The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association is a trusted leader in the Wisconsin beef industry and gives a voice to our state's beef producers on a local, regional and national level. When it comes to legislation impacting cattlemen and women you can count on the Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association to have your back. The association works closely with many industry partners to maintain a positive business environment for cattlemen through leadership and education.

DATCP's Wisconsin Farm Center focuses on helping farmers sustain, grow, or effectively transition their businesses. Free and confidential services include financial consulting, transition planning, conflict mediation, veteran farmer assistance, veterinary analysis, and a Farmer Wellness Program.

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

An efficient and user-friendly process to complete water quality trades that generates extra revenue for installing best management practices that reduce soil erosion and stormwater runoff.