Young Farmers & Ranchers State Conference

On July 14, young farmers and ranchers from across the state made their way to Punta Gorda  to take part in Florida Farm Bureau’s State Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Conference titled “Hooked on Agriculture.”

Headlining speakers included internet sensation Chad Prather, Cody Moran of YNOT Lifestyle, U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney, State Rep. Ben Albritton, and Kalena Bruce, AFBF’s YF&R Chair.

The three-day conference also boasted 16 different break-out sessions with four topics—ag business, agricultural advocacy, legislation and family farm dynamics.

More than 280 people attended this year—a 47 percent increase than the highest attended conference in 2013.

Two candidates for Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services attended the conference. Denise Grimsley joined participants the first night of the conference for a reception and dinner and Matt Caldwell spent the second day talking with young farmers and ranchers and answering their questions.

In addition to a highly competitive Discussion Meet, conference goers competed for the top three spots in a fierce volleyball and cornhole tournament.

Farm Credit sponsored a party by the harbor featuring karaoke and drinks provided by Grayton Beer Co.

Next year’s conference is scheduled for St. Augustine July , 2018.

View photos from Hooked on Agriculture on Flickr, and search #HookedOnAg17 on social media.