Image courtesy Canva

Kansas Farm Bureau members were prominently featured at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Convention in Anaheim, California, earlier this month. Young Farmers and Ranchers from the state excelled in national competitions, with Lane County’s Mindy McMillen winning the Discussion Meet and Jacquelyne Leffler placing in the top 10 for the Achievement Award.

State voting delegates successfully supported policy backing federal funding for the National Bio and Agro-Defense Laboratory in Manhattan to help address current and future agricultural threats.

Four Kansas counties were recognized with AFBF’s County Activities of Excellence Awards, giving them the chance to showcase their programs at the national convention. Atchison County offered farmers market gift certificates to youth, Franklin County hosted the Ag Education Summer Series, Jackson County created a Livestock Summit for 4-H members, and Meade County started the Silver Plate Project to provide meals for seniors.

These programs demonstrate how local initiatives, supported by committed leaders, can make a meaningful impact and inspire other communities nationwide.