Farm Bureau’s grassroots policy development process is underway once again, continuing a tradition of member engagement and common-sense policymaking that has spanned generations since our founding in 1915.
Each year brings a new set of challenges for agriculture, along with opportunities to develop policy solutions that make a difference for rural America. Despite volatile markets, a struggling farm economy and an evolving regulatory environment, one thing remains as important today as it was more than a century ago: Farmers and ranchers deserve a seat at the table when decisions affecting their livelihoods are made. Our tried-and-true process ensures that members have a voice in shaping the policies that guide our organization.
Farm Bureau’s policy development process is built on a simple yet profound idea: Those closest to the challenges are often best positioned to identify practical solutions. That principle has guided our organization since its inception. Important conversations among farmers, ranchers and rural residents often begin in farm shops and around kitchen tables across Missouri, long before they are ever discussed in Jefferson City or Washington, D.C.
Since 1915, Farm Bureau’s mission has remained consistent: bringing members together to address real-world concerns affecting farm families, local businesses and the future of rural America. The long-term vitality of rural communities continues to shape discussions among Missouri producers, with ideas originating at the local level helping influence decisions at the highest levels of government.
Farm Bureau’s policy process is not led by lobbyists or political strategists. It begins with members. Through surveys, county meetings, committee discussions and delegate sessions, members identify concerns and establish priorities for our organization. This grassroots approach has helped Farm Bureau remain relevant through generations of change while staying connected to the people it represents.
At a time when many Americans feel disconnected from public institutions, Farm Bureau’s commitment to seeking and incorporating member input offers an important example of grassroots engagement in action. Our policy book reflects voices coming together around a shared goal of strengthening agriculture and rural communities.
The future of agriculture depends on people willing to get involved, share their perspectives and work toward common goals. That commitment to grassroots participation has guided Farm Bureau for more than a century and remains essential to ensuring that the voice of rural America continues to be heard.
