GFB Young Farmers go to Washington, D.C.

GFB young farmers were constantly on the go during their annual trip to D.C.

Thirty-one Georgia Farm Bureau young farmers representing 19 counties converged on Washington, D.C., March 12-15, to offer counsel to Georgia’s congressional delegation on ag issues.

The young farmer delegation included cattlemen, vegetable growers, poultry, timber and pecan producers, nurserymen and vineyard owners.

Prior to their visit to Capitol Hill, the group visited the new American Farm Bureau headquarters, where they were briefed and updated on key issues.

The main issues the group discussed with Georgia’s congressional delegation were the upcoming farm bill, immigration and CERCLA, legislation that would classify animal manure as a toxic substance. The group visited with Sens. Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson along with their individual congressmen.

“This trip is a unique opportunity for our young farmers to see and learn about Washington first hand,” GFB Young Farmer Committee Chairman Chris Paulk said. “In our congressional meeting, these young farmer representatives spoke with knowledge and passion about the future of agriculture in our state. They’ve certainly made me proud to be a part of this group.”

During a luncheon meeting, GFB President Zippy Duvall challenged the group to speak up and get involved, not only in Washington, but also with their county Farm Bureaus. He discussed the opportunities Farm Bureau offers young people and reminded them that he was a participant in the D.C. trip years ago and now stood before them as GFB president.

In addition to their congressional visits, the young farmers visited Mt. Vernon (photo above), where they received a special tour that highlighted George Washington’s life as a farmer. They also took a tour of the White House.