By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Vital contributions from grassroots leaders and the need for a modernized farm bill were among the topics American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall covered during his speech at the national organization’s annual convention this week in San Antonio.

He recognized and celebrated Farm Bureau’s achievements and emphasized the essential role of a local Farm Bureau leader.

“Having an impact—making a real difference—begins with you at the local level,” Duvall said. “Whether you’re giving back to your communities or helping farmers pick up the pieces from a storm, you are the heartbeat of the federation.”

Farm Bureau members’ advocacy efforts led to several legislative victories in 2024, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission reversing course on an overreaching disclosure regulation. Members also contacted lawmakers to  ensure Congress provided financial protection for farmers and ranchers in the year-end spending package.

“We successfully led the charge to ensure Congress recognizes how tough it is right now for farmers,” Duvall said. “We flooded Congress with over 12,000 messages in 72 hours, urging action. This led to $30 billion dollars to support farmers and ranchers at a critical time.”

In 2024, Farm Bureau members sent nearly 50,000 contacts to Congress and federal agencies—a record number during Duvall’s tenure as president.

“I’m really proud of your engagement,” Duvall said. “Let’s build on that, because we will need everyone to step up in 2025.”

Step Up, Drive Forward was the theme of the 2025 convention. Duvall left members with a challenge of stepping up and driving forward when it comes to advocating for a new, modernized farm bill.

“You all know what a tough battle the farm bill has been. And, while we appreciate Congress passing another extension, we will not let up, despite lawmakers kicking the can down the road and making political excuses,” Duvall said. “Tens of thousands of you stepped up to help, and you can bet we’ll keep working together to get a modernized farm bill.”

Members are the most vital part of Farm Bureau and makes the grassroots organization a force to reckon with, he said.

“Thank you for stepping up to drive agriculture and our communities forward in such amazing ways,” Duvall said. “I’m proud to be a farmer and a Farm Bureau member alongside each of you. We can move mountains when we work together. We’ve all seen it. So, let’s go move some more mountains by stepping up and driving forward in 2025.”