“We get to farm!” This expression is often used to describe playing a sport, hunting or any other hobby, not to characterize farming. But, I recently heard it from a Farm Bureau member who was putting out hay for his cattle on a cold winter day.
Not long after that, I spoke with another farmer who told me, “This is the year!”
My immediate reaction was shock. Although markets seem to be up and futures are promising, we are still facing record-high inputs from seed, feed and fuel, along with everything else we touch. How could they have such positive mindsets on cold, dreary days, when equipment is not cooperating, and they are running behind schedule?
But, the more I reflected on my visits with these farmers, the more I understood. Even through the difficult times, they still get to do what they love. They get to work every day to feed the world.
This made me more uplifted and motivated to do my part as a member of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation staff. It gave me a rejuvenated energy to do everything I can to protect the farmer.
Most MFBF staff members either grew up on a farm or currently have their own operations, making us collectively vested in agriculture. I am no different. So, if you ever wonder who is constantly fighting for you and the future or your operation, rest assured, it’s people who care.
One example of how MFBF staff and active members work to show how much they care can be seen through meeting attendance. This year, American Farm Bureau Federation held its annual convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico. From Young Farmers & Ranchers program contestants to voting delegates, MFBF was well represented with more than 150 Mississippians in attendance.
Mississippi should be proud of the representation our great state had throughout the trip. We handled business and toured local agricultural operations, including coffee plantations and rice farms, to learn more about the industry outside of the contiguous 48 states. Together, we were able to conduct business and learn new ways to keep moving agriculture forward.
I’m thankful for the opportunity to work with so many of you across the state through this organization and pursue a common goal of getting to farm!
Clint Ladner is the Regional Manager for Region 4 at the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.