Florida Farm Bureau honors outstanding volunteers, celebrates successful year

Orlando, Fla. – A fine balance of well-deserved award announcements and policy development engaged more than 500 members at Florida Farm Bureau’s 70th Annual Meeting, held Oct. 6 through Oct. 8, at The Peabody Hotel in Orlando. Members also participated in a variety of workshops and business sessions at the event. Many attendees reported that the meeting was one of the best of its kind.

Marion County couple competes for state Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement title

James and Sara LeFils have been named as finalists for the 2011 Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement in Agriculture Award. The couple produces beef cattle, peanuts and hay on more than 1,500 acres in Marion County. They also maintain a custom hay harvesting operation.

Polk County couple competes for state Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement title

Jason and Olivia DeVane have been named as finalists for the 2011 Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement in Agriculture Award. The couple produces citrus and beef cattle on more than 2,600 acres in Polk County. They also maintain grove caretaking operation for other area citrus farmers.

Jim Strickland testifies before House subcommittee

Jim Strickland, president of the Florida Cattlemen's Association and a member of Florida Farm Bureau's Beef Advisory Committee, today testified before the House Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. Congressman Tom Rooney is chair of this subcommittee and invited Strickland to testify. Here's a link to what he had to say.

Eight NEW Issue Briefs Added to Site

Florida Farm Bureau's Agricultural Policy Division has put together eight new issue briefs to help update members on important topics facing our state and industry.

Click here to go to the Issue Briefs page.

Rep. Adam Putnam Headlines Friend of Farm Bureau Award Winners for 111th Congress

Fifteen members of Florida’s Congressional delegation are being recognized as “Friends of Farm Bureau” based on their outstanding service to agriculture during the 111th Congress.

Clay County couple wins Florida Farm Bureau’s Excellence in Agriculture Award

Justin and Kelly Mosley have been chosen as the top winners of Florida Farm Bureau’s Excellence in Agriculture competition.

Farm Bureau honors Peaden, Cretul with 2010 
“Legislator of the Year” award

State Sen. Durell Peaden and state Rep. Larry Cretul today received Florida Farm Bureau’s Legislator of the Year award during the organization’s 2010 annual meeting in Daytona Beach.

Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting is Oct. 13-15 in Daytona

Hundreds of farmers and ranchers from across the state will convene at the Hilton Oceanfront Resort in Daytona Beach for the 69th annual meeting.

Farm Bureau applauds Rubio’s plan to help agriculture

The leader of Florida’s largest general-interest agricultural organization today applauded U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio for his six-point plan to help the agricultural community.

AMENDMENT 4:

What every Floridian should know

Farmers' environmental efforts to be highlighted, along with 10th anniversary of CARES

Twenty-four Suwannee River Basin farmers and ranchers will be recognized for their superior natural resource efforts during the annual CARES dinner and awards ceremony at the UF/IFAS Suwannee Valley Research and Education Center near Live Oak on June 29.

Hundley is Expo Farmer of the Year for Florida

John L. Hundley, who produces vegetables and sugarcane in the Everglades Agricultural area (EAA) of South Florida, has been named Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Farmer of the Year for Florida. He will represent his state in the competition for Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Southeastern Farmer of the Year in October.

Florida Farm Bureau members visit Capitol

More than 80 Florida Farm Bureau members traveled to Washington, D.C. this month to visit with Florida’s congressional delegation for the annual "Field to the Hill" trip.

Carly Barnes wins Collegiate Farm Bureau Discussion Meet

The University of Florida junior recently took first place in the 2010 Collegiate Farm Bureau Discussion Meet and will represent Florida at the national finals of the event next year in Orlando.

Florida Farm Bureau President addresses Ag Committees

Florida’s agriculture, natural resources and related industries might now be the number one driver of the Florida economy; Florida Farm Bureau President John L. Hoblick told House and Senate committees yesterday.

Union County farmer named to Florida Farm Bureau board

Ed Shadd, a diversified timber, cattle and hog farmer from Raiford, was elected to represent District 8, which includes Alachua, Bradford and Union counties.

Florida Farm Bureau will host Receptions for UF/IFAS Senior Vice President Finalists

A series of receptions will be held to introduce agriculture industry leaders to the four finalists for UF/IFAS Senior Vice President.

Many tickets left in drawing for turkey hunt with Commissioner Charles Bronson

Buy your ticket today!

Florida Farm Bureau sees concern over freeze damage, losses

Commissioner of Agriculture estimates about one-third of the crop worth hundreds of millions of dollars has been lost. Farmers urged to document damage if they are planning to seek assistance.

Florida to be well represented at American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Seattle Jan. 10-13

President John L. Hoblick will lead a group of about 50 Florida Farm Bureau members to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 91st Meeting.

Live Oak man wins NASCAR tickets for Nov. 22 race

Larry Gilliard wins NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Finale tickets

New members elected to Florida Farm Bureau Board of Directors

Four new members joined the board of directors of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation following the annual meeting Oct. 28-30 at Daytona Beach. In addition, the board of directors reelected Mark Byrd, an Apopka nurseryman, to be its Secretary. Jeff Vermillion, a rancher from Marion County, was elected Treasurer.

Farm Bureau president: Florida agriculture is economic bulwark in recession

The leader of Florida’s largest general agricultural organization reminded his audience that agriculture has remained a “pillar” of economic activity, despite the deep recession of the past year.

Jeb Smith of St. Johns County named Achievement Award winner

Jeb Smith, a St. Johns County farmer, had the pleasure of driving away from Florida Farm Bureau’s 2009 Annual Meeting with a new Dodge Ram Quad Cab truck, courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company. Smith won this special prize after he was selected as the winner of Florida Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Rancher Achievement Award competition.

Florida Farm Bureau honors members, others at 68th Annual Meeting

More than 500 Florida Farm Bureau Federation leaders from across the state gathered at the Hilton Oceanfront Resort in Daytona Beach Oct. 28-30 for the organization’s 68th annual meeting.

Donald Nelson and Marion Tidwell to be honored with Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award

President Hoblick will present the awards during the President’s Celebration and Awards Ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 28.

“Farm Bureau Today” on RFD-TV

The Brock family farm in Jefferson County and Florida’s aquaculture
industry will be highlighted later this month when The Florida Report
airs on RFD-TV.

Northern Everglades farmers to receive accolades for environmental stewardship Oct. 8

Twenty farmers and ranchers will be honored on Oct. 8 for their
environmental stewardship at the Okeechobee County Agri-Civic Center.

Teachers reminded to apply for Ag in the Classroom mini-grants

Teachers are reminded that Oct. 2 is the deadline to apply for its Ag in the Classroom Mini-Grants. The grants are designed to assist educators with projects that integrate agriculture into students’ classroom experience.

Florida Farm Bureau opposes Amendment 4, “Hometown Democracy”

The board of directors of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation has affirmed the organization’s opposition to Amendment 4.

Curt Williams joins Florida Farm Bureau Federation

He will represent Florida Farm Bureau and the agricultural community on
water, natural resources and growth management issues with major focus
on the Southwest Florida and the St. Johns River Water
Management districts.

Farm Bureau urges citizens to attend ‘energy rally’

Farm Bureau has joined with a coalition called Energy Citizens to hold
a rally highlighting the negative impacts that climate change
legislation will have on agriculture, industry and small businesses in
Florida.  The event will be held Thursday, August 27 at the Ritz
Theatre in Ybor City from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

FFA to honor Florida Farm Bureau’s Hoblick, Cockrell

President John L. Hoblick and Assistant to the President Pat Cockrell will be recognized at FFA's 82nd National Convention in Indianapolis, Ind.

Farm Bureau staff member earns Accreditation in Public Relations

Kathy Richardson, public relations program manager for FFBF, has successfully completed the Examination for Accreditation in Public Relations, entitling her to use the APR professional designation.

Christian Colletti joins Florida Agricultural Marketing Association

Christian Colletti has been hired as assistant operations manager by the Florida Agricultural Marketing Association (FAMA).

Farm Bureau’s James Trafton named chair of Florida Insurance Council

Trafton was installed as the 2009-2010 Chairman of the Florida Insurance Council’s Executive Committee and Board during the Council’s summer symposium.

Young Farmers & Ranchers to hold conference in Crystal River

The event will be held July 18 and 19 at The Plantation Golf Resort & Spa. Registration deadline is June 19.

Polk County grower and rancher named 2009 Sunbelt Expo Florida Farmer of the Year

Cary Lightsey, a Lake Wales man, has been named the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Ag Expo’s 2009 Florida Farmer of the Year.

Florida Agricultural Marketing Association hires Brian Buckley

Brian Buckley of Brooksville has joined the staff of the Leesburg-based Florida Agricultural Marketing Association (FAMA) as manager of the Direct Marketing Division.

Joe Siegmeister joins Florida Farm Bureau staff

As assistant director of Field Services for District Four, Siegmeister works with Alachua, Dixie, Flagler, Gilchrist, Levy, Marion, Seminole and
Volusia counties.

Area farmers to attend DOT training seminar, public invited 

The Columbia County Farm Bureau is hosting a Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT) Educational Seminar to discuss current rules,
regulations and laws pertaining to hauling agricultural products and
moving farm equipment on public roads in Florida.

Florida Farm Bureau votes to join agriculture coalition

The Florida Farm Bureau Federation will join Agriculture for a Democratic Workplace (ADW), a national coalition of agriculture associations unified to oppose the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA).

Scholarships offered by Alachua County Farm Bureau
Alachua County Farm Bureau is encouraging high school seniors to apply for scholarships this spring.

Staci Braswell joins Florida Farm Bureau staff

Braswell is director of Government and Community Affairs, this division represents Farm Bureau on public policy issues relating to ordinances, legislation and regulations impacting agriculture.

Scot Eubanks joins Florida Farm Bureau staff

Scot Eubanks has joined the Agricultural Policy Division at Florida Farm Bureau Federation as assistant director.

Major peanut butter jar brands not affected by recall

On behalf of Florida’s peanut farmers, the Florida Farm Bureau Federation reminds consumers that the peanut butter/peanut butter paste recall does not apply to most major brands of jar peanut butter.

Florida Senate Select Committee on economy invites public to workshop

Meetings will be held Jan. 16, Jan. 21 and Jan. 22.

Florida to be well represented at American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in San Antonio

Florida Farm Bureau President John L. Hoblick will lead a group of about 110 Florida Farm Bureau members to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 90th Annual Meeting Jan. 11-14 in San Antonio.

Florida farmers named to national advisory committees

Thirteen Florida farmers and ranchers have been named to several Advisory Committees of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

 Florida Farm Bureau opposes SFWMD acquisition of U.S. Sugar lands

At its meeting on Dec. 10, the board of directors of the Florida Farm
Bureau Federation (FFBF), declared its opposition to the acquisition
of U.S. Sugar Corp. lands by the South Florida Water Management
District.

FBACT Action Alert-EPA Proposes "Cow Tax"

A proposed EPA Rule regulating greenhouse gasses would essentially impose a per cow "tax" and fees on other types of agriculture.

CLICK HERE to send a message to EPA letting them know how regulation of greenhouse gasses under the Clean Air Act would adversely affect agriculture.

Florida farmers, ranchers featured in new photo book

A new book presents not only a visual showcase of U.S. farmers and ranchers but offers compelling images of Florida farmers as well.

Florida Farm Bureau Federation names Kevin Morgan executive director

In his new position, Morgan will oversee and coordinate the activities of the Agricultural Policy, Field Services and Public Relations divisions.

Marion County couple earns Florida Farm Bureau’s Excellence in Agriculture Award

Scott and Sarah Joe Thomas have been chosen as the top winners of Florida Farm Bureau’s Excellence in Agriculture competition.

Florida Farm Bureau honors four state legislators

Sens. Carey Baker and Larcenia Bullard and Reps. Mary Brandenburg and Will Kendrick were recognized as Legislators of the Year for 2008 for their leadership, vision and support of Florida’s agriculture industry.

Farm Bureaus share innovative programs through County Activities of Excellence at annual meeting

Four counties presented their inventive and successful ideas and activities last week at the Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Orlando.

Grover G. Norquist to address Florida Farm Bureau Annual meeting

Anti-tax activist and issues management strategist Grover G. Norquist will address the Farm PAC Luncheon on Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s annual meeting at the Peabody Hotel in Orlando.

2008 Resolutions Workbook Available for Review 

Each year Florida Farm Bureau provides County Farm Bureaus with a copy of resolutions proposed for consideration by the delegates during our convention.   This year, to encourage involvement in our policy process, we have made the Resolutions Workbook available online so that Farm Bureau members can review the proposed changes prior to the Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. 

Download the 2008 FFBF Resolutions Workbook 

James Snively receives Excellence in Crop Advising Award

James Snively, a Certified Crop Advisor and vice president of grove
operations for Southern Gardens Citrus, Inc, is the 2008 winner of the
Florida Excellence in Crop Advising Award sponsored by the Florida
Certified Crop Adviser Program and the Florida Farm Bureau Federation.

Producers reminded of new requirements for disaster programs

Florida Farm Bureau wants to make sure producers are aware of requirements for those seeking to participate in the new Supplemental Agriculture Disaster Programs included in the 2008 farm bill.

Florida Farm Bureau to honor Bobby Beagles and George Poucher with Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award

Florida Farm Bureau Federation will honor Orange County cattle producer Bobby Beagles and Suwannee County farmer George Poucher with its highest honor, the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award, at its 67th annual meeting this October.

Florida Farm Bureau to host water concerns meeting in Palatka

Farm Bureau will host a meet and greet session to allow Farm Bureau members, as well as the general public, an opportunity to get to know Cara Martin, Farm Bureau's recently appointed liaison to the St. Johns River Water Management District.

Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers team with Second Harvest

Florida Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) program has teamed up with America’s Second Harvest, the largest charitable relief organization in the U.S., to help feed America.

Young Farmers & Ranchers hold annual conference in Orlando

More than 150 of Florida Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers gathered July July 19 and 20 at the Hilton in the Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. This year’s conference offered programs on financial management, handling interpersonal conflict, and the often-complex and emotion ridden process of generational succession – that is, the process of transferring ownership of family farming operations to the next generation.

Environmental stewardship by Suwannee River Basin farmers and ranchers recognized

Twenty-nine Suwannee River Basin farmers and ranchers were recognized for their superior natural resource stewardship during the 8th Annual CARES dinner held at the Dwight Stansel farm in Suwannee County on July 1.

Diamond bracelet drawing to support Farm Bureau women

Would you like a chance to win a beautiful 2.56 ct. diamond bracelet set in two-tone 14k gold?

For your donation of $2 per ticket, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win.

FBACT ACTION ALERT: Thank Governor Crist for Signing Budget With UF/IFAS Budget Intact
CLICK HERE to send your "thank you" letter to the Governor.

North Florida farmers will be featured June 25 on RFD-TV
“Farm Bureau Today” on RFD-TV will feature two progressive North Florida farming operations on June 25, 2008 on 6:30 p.m., Eastern Time. The program visits Donnell and Robert Gwinn’s family farm in McAlpin, Suwannee County, and Jay Fraleigh’s nursery near Madison.

Best awards “A” Rating to Florida Farm Bureau Insurance Companies
Florida Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company and Florida Farm Bureau General Insurance Companies have been rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company...

Northern Everglades farmers receive accolades for environmental stewardship
The owners of the agricultural operations were recognized by Florida Farm Bureau’s County Alliance for Responsible Environmental Stewardship (CARES) program for their outstanding efforts in implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs)...

Florida FB Members Marching For Immigration Reform
Florida Farm Bureau members will march from the American Farm Bureau Federation office to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to call attention to the need for reform of federal immigration laws. About 90 Florida farmers, ranchers, growers and staff members are in Washington, D.C...

Africanized bees, conservation are subjects of RFD-TV reports in April
(Gainesville, Fla.) – Florida agriculture will be featured on “Farm Bureau Reports” on RFD-TV at 6:30 p.m. on April 23 and April 30, 2008. On April 23, the program will focus on Africanized bees and the challenges they continue to pose...

FBACT Action Alert: Executive Order to Adopt California Emission Standards
In an effort to combat motor vehicle emissions and greenhouse gases (GHG), Governor Crist’s Executive Order 07-127 plans to adopt California’s motor vehicle emission standards. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida is looking to adopt...

Make plans now to read for Ag Literacy Day
The school year started later in Florida this year, which means Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc.’s Florida Agriculture Literacy Day will be held a month later in April 2008...

Water Restriction Workshops for South Florida Agriculture
The University of Florida – Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), in conjunction with Florida Farm Bureau Federation, South Florida Water Management District and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)...

IFAS controversy now in public domain
Florida Farm Bureau is posting this statement from University of Florida President Dr. Bernie Machen at the request of his office. The statement is a response to the controversy over the level of impending budget cuts...

Food Check Out Week reminds consumers food is affordable
With economic concerns looming large in the minds of most Americans, the average cost of food continues to remain affordable overall. According to the most recent information from the Agriculture Department’s (USDA’s) Economic Research Service...

Young Farm Bureau members highlighted on national stage
Chris and Kelly Lyons of Mayo were runners-up for the Young Farmer and Rancher Achievement Award and Charlie and Kelli Hofer of Ocala were top 10 finalists in the Excellence in Agriculture competition...

Don’t Tie Our Hands shows need for immigration reform
Pieces of twine attached to note cards are being used to send a strong, visual message to Florida’s members of Congress about the need for comprehensive immigration reform...