By Blake Jackson
The Missouri Farm Bureau (MOFB) recently concluded its 109th annual meeting, a vibrant gathering of over 1,000 farmers and ranchers united by their passion for agriculture and rural America. The event served as a vital platform to reflect on the past year's challenges and triumphs, and more importantly, to set the course for the year ahead.
This year's theme, "Guided by Tradition," resonated with the organization's core values. The delegate session exemplified the true essence of a grassroots organization, with representatives from every county deliberating, discussing, and ultimately voting on policies that will shape the future of MOFB.
Among the key highlights of the meeting were:
- Celebrating Infrastructure Progress: Members lauded the expansion of I-70 and prioritized further advancements in rural road infrastructure, I-44 expansion, and the completion of I-57, with a focus on minimal impact on private property.
- Urgency for a New Farm Bill: The need for a new five-year farm bill was reiterated, emphasizing increased reference prices for Title 1 commodities and strengthened protection for livestock producers through the Pasture Rangeland and Forage Program.
- Balancing Energy Policy: While acknowledging the importance of alternative energy, concerns were raised about the federal government's skewed support for wind and solar projects. Delegates advocated for a balanced approach that considers the reliability and cost implications of retiring traditional energy sources like coal and natural gas.
- Addressing Meat Processing Plant Closures: The closure of major processing plants in Missouri and other states prompted MOFB members to urge agribusinesses to explore selling assets rather than abandoning communities and jeopardizing jobs and local economies.
- Foreign Ownership of Agricultural Land: MOFB maintained its stance against foreign ownership of agricultural land but opposed divestiture requirements for existing holdings. An exemption for agricultural research efforts was also supported.
- Supporting Safe Technology: Members reaffirmed their support for proven and safe technologies in production agriculture, strengthening their position on the use of scientifically validated livestock vaccines.
These policy recommendations will be submitted for consideration at the upcoming American Farm Bureau annual meeting in Salt Lake City, where Farm Bureau members from across the country will collectively determine the organization's nationwide priorities for 2024.
The MOFB annual meeting served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unwavering spirit of Missouri's farmers and ranchers. As they navigate the complexities of the upcoming year, their voices and shared purpose will continue to resonate, shaping a brighter future for agriculture and rural communities.
Photo Credit: missouri-farm-bureau
Categories: Missouri, Business, Energy