By Julie Tomascik
Associate Editor
Farmers and ranchers traded in their boots and hats for suits and ties on a four-day trip this week to Capitol Hill where they visited with their congressmen.
Members of Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) AgLead XII and FarmLead V, along with members of the Young Farmer & Rancher Advisory Committee, focused on issues affecting their livelihood.
“This trip allowed our members of all ages to meet with their congressmen and have those face-to-face conversations. That allowed our farmers and ranchers to put a face to these issues that are being talked about in Washington,” TFB Director of Organization Programs Coleburn Davis said.
It also gave them a chance to observe issue briefings and to interact with various agencies.
AgLead and FarmLead participants met with organizations who have opposing philosophies and viewpoints, including the Environmental Working Group, Humane Society of the United States and the Environmental Protection Agency.
“They’re tough discussions to have, but ones that need to take place and help our members develop stronger leadership and communication skills,” TFB Director of Staff/Leadership Development Jamie Gipe said.
Members of the young farmers and ranchers group visited Embassy Row where they met with representatives from New Zealand and Canada.