County Farm Bureaus in Texas Partner on Young Farmer and Rancher Engagement

Editor’s Note: This article was written by Emmy Powell, Texas Farm Bureau communications specialist, and was originally published on the Texas Farm Bureau website.

Hale County Farm Bureau and Swisher County Farm Bureau (Texas) teamed up to host a series of leadership and networking events designed to connect young farmers and ranchers with other members across the counties, as well as promote Farm Bureau programs and strengthen involvement among the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Nearly 60 young farmers and ranchers attended the leadership development meetings that featured speakers and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning.

“Our goal was to help develop leadership among these young producers and also make them aware of the Farm Bureau resources out there,” Barry Evans, Swisher County Farm Bureau president, said. “We hosted lunch and dinner options to help reach more people. Many young farmers and ranchers aren’t aware of the assets that are available to them.”

The events focused on leadership, advocacy and the value of local Farm Bureau involvement.

“The counties chose to work together as a team to drive more interest in Young Farmer & Rancher events,” Justin Stoerner, Hale County board member, said. “When people see others getting involved, it becomes contagious. Sharing a meal gave everyone a chance to network and learn about the opportunities Farm Bureau offers.”

The collaboration expanded outreach in a sparsely populated region, drawing participation from neighboring Castro and Floyd counties.

“We’re in a very rural part of the state, and the populations of the communities as a whole are declining,” Stoerner said. “It’s becoming more and more vital to work together and to encourage involvement from these young farmers and ranchers.”

Evans agreed, noting that community connections are critical in agriculture.

“Farming is hard. Ranching is hard. But it helps to know there are others facing the same challenges,” Evans said. “It builds a stronger community and makes stronger individuals knowing others in their shoes.”

County Activities of Excellence
Hale County Farm Bureau and Swisher County Farm Bureau’s young farmer and rancher engagement efforts earned the organizations a County Activities of Excellence Award from the American Farm Bureau Federation. They were among 25 counties invited to display their activity at the 2026 AFBF Convention trade show in January in Anaheim, California.