By Julie Tomascik
Editor

An overview of trending topics in agriculture will be the focus of workshops during Texas Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting in December.

The workshops are a new addition to the meeting schedule this year.

“Members will have the opportunity to hear directly from industry experts and get up-to-date insights on the farm bill,” said Laramie Adams, TFB associate director of Government Affairs. “The combination of a commodity outlook and farm bill update provides critical information that will have a direct impact on the decisions Texas farmers and ranchers make moving forward.”

2025 Outlook sessions
The 2025 Outlook will include a weather forecast, market and trade overview and an update on the farm bill.

Texas is poised to transition into a La Nina weather pattern and meteorologist Matt Makens will discuss the impacts on agriculture.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Economist Bernt Nelson will deliver an update and provide insight on the dynamics of world trade and crop production across the country. A segment on livestock will focus on inventories, pricing and projections for 2025.

An update on the farm bill will be provided by AFBF Director of Government Affairs Joe Gilson. His hands-on experience directing the development and inclusion of Farm Bureau member priorities in the farm bill will allow for a unique perspective on the current status and plans for the farm bill.

“These are essential topics for anyone in agriculture,” Adams said. “With the volatility in the markets and potential changes to federal policy, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and adapt to what’s coming in 2025.”

The workshops, which are hosted by TFB’s Commodity Advisory Committees, will be held from 1-4 p.m. They are open to all annual meeting attendees.

Young Farmer & Rancher session
Feeding the Future: Growing the Next Generation is an engaging workshop focused on the Young Farmer & Rancher (YF&R) program. Participants will gain practical knowledge about YF&R and how to mentor the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Members of the YF&R Advisory Committee will discuss starting a program, advancing local efforts and how to get involved at the state level.

“We want to ensure members and county Farm Bureaus are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need for a successful YF&R program,” said Jay Clark, chair of TFB’s YF&R Advisory Committee. “Every program starts somewhere, and we want to see YF&R continue to grow at the county and state levels. This workshop will help do just that!”

The workshop will take place from 4-5 p.m. and is open to all annual meeting attendees.

Annual meeting details
The 91st Annual Meeting is set for Dec. 6-8 at Kalahari Resort in Round Rock.

Policy discussions, membership recognition and a weekend of fellowship are slated for the weekend.

Members can participate in a safari-themed family fun night hosted by the YF&R Advisory Committee on Friday evening.

Texas country music singer Kyle Park will headline Saturday night’s dinner and reception.

For more information and the tentative agenda, visit texasfarmbureau.org/annualmeeting.