Manatee County Farm Bureau

We foster and encourage youth involvement in agriculture at different levels. We held a speech contest where participants researched an agriculture related topic. This event allows students to develop public speaking skills which are important for future success. They also learn the various aspect of agriculture and how it continuously evolves as technology changes. Youth mentoring is important to the future of agriculture. Manatee County takes youth to Tallahassee to educate and experience the process of involvement and to build leadership skills.

We participated in Farm City Week, a national event whose purpose is to raise awareness of the importance of agriculture and where our food comes from. Events like this allow us to communicate with consumers and the urban population. Participants had the opportunity to take a tour of local commerical operation and get a better understanding of farming operations and how food gets to tables from the farm.

Manatee County Farm Bureau encourages members to be civic minded. Members had the opportunity to meet with local, state, and national elected officials to discuss policies that directly impact farmers and ranchers. Educating elected officials on how policies impact local agriculture help to collaboratively work towards helping the betterment of those engage in agriculture.