Iowa Farm Bureau Annual Meeting

The Iowa Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Program serves as a vital platform for young farmers aged 18 to 35, fostering connections, leadership, and growth within the agricultural community. This initiative is tailored for those who are either full-time or part-time farmers, work within the agriculture sector, aspire to engage more deeply with agricultural practices, or possess a genuine passion for farming. Through a series of conferences, educational events, and recognition programs, participants are granted access to the latest innovations and techniques in agriculture, contributing to their professional and personal development. The program includes breakout sessions focusing on advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and financial management strategies, equipping young farmers with essential skills to thrive in their operations.One of the highlights of the Young Farmer Program is the recognition of outstanding young leaders through the YF Leadership Award, honoring Bob Joslin. This award acknowledges the significant contributions of young farmers within the Farm Bureau and the broader agricultural community. Winners, selected based on their leadership experience and active involvement, are awarded a $2,000 grant for a local organization of their choice, a $500 cash prize from Iowa Farm Bureau, and an expense-paid trip to notable future conferences, including the 2027 AFBF Annual Convention and the 2027 IFBF Young Farmer Conference. The 2025 recipients of this prestigious award include Blake Anderson, Randall Francois, and Devon Murray, with Keaton Keitzer being recognized as the winner for 2025.The program also features the Discussion Meet, a competitive event designed to enhance discussion skills among young farmers while tackling critical agricultural issues. Participants engage in structured discussions, simulating a problem-solving environment akin to friendly kitchen table debates. Contestants are evaluated on their collaborative spirit, problem-solving capabilities, presentation skills, and analytical thinking. The 2025 Discussion Meet winners include Keaton Keitzer, Molly Dolch, Coltin Schachtner Kramer, and Alyssa Yoder McClary, with the competition culminating at the Iowa Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. Additionally, the semi-finalists of the 2026 Discussion Meet will receive coaching throughout the year to prepare for the final rounds, leading to opportunities for advancement to the national level at the 2027 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention.The Iowa Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, hosted at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines, is a pivotal gathering that underscores the commitment to empowering young farmers and fostering a collaborative agricultural community across the United States and beyond.