Midland and Isabella farm bureaus discuss Farm Bill

By Andi Anderson

The Midland and Isabella Farm Bureaus held their annual meeting at Back Orchard Barn in Freeland, where they discussed legislative updates, ongoing advocacy for the Farm Bill, and successful local programs.

Michigan Farm Bureau District 8 Director Michael Mulders kicked off the meeting by emphasizing the importance of the Farm Bill, urging Congress to finalize it to provide stability for farmers.

The current Farm Bill, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, was extended through September 2024, allowing critical support programs to continue.

Mulders stressed the need for consistent agricultural policies, encouraging members to stay engaged during the election year by voting for farm-friendly candidates.

Several political candidates attended, including State Representatives Bill G. Schuette and Jerry Neyer, who are running for re-election.

Abe Pasch, an Isabella County dairy farmer and Farm Bureau director at large, highlighted key programs such as Agriculture in the Classroom, which has reached over 21,000 students with hands-on learning experiences through the Farm Science Lab and Van.

Pasch also discussed the Connecting Communities Campaign, which provided grants for community engagement projects like farm-to-table dinners, open farm events, and Project RED (Rural Education Day) aimed at educating students about rural life.

Isabella County Farm Bureau President Cathy McCune shared details of an upcoming partnership with Jay’s Sporting Goods, the Department of Natural Resources, and Sportsmen Against Hunger to collect venison donations for food banks during deer hunting season.

Both farm bureaus also elected their board members, with new directors appointed in various districts. Other highlights included an introduction to Pat McGuire, who announced his candidacy for Michigan Farm Bureau President, and the recognition of Young Farmer Audrey Martin by Sarah Zastrow, a State Young Farmer Committee member.

The meeting emphasized the importance of advocacy, community engagement, and continued support for Michigan’s agricultural sector through strong leadership and local initiatives.