The purpose of the Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmer Program is to contribute to the overall effectiveness of the Georgia Farm Bureau by providing leadership, educational and social opportunities, thereby preparing and enabling young adults to become more active members and to assume additional roles of leadership and responsibility within county, state or national Farm Bureau organizations.
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					GFB YOUNG FARMERS VISIT WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A group of 30 Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmers from 19 counties traveled to Washington, D.C., March 10-13, for the organization's annual Young Farmers to Washington Trip. The purpose of the event is to develop leadership skills and encourage young farmers to contact their U.S. Congressional delegation on issues impacting agriculture. The young farmer group included row crop, poultry, cattle, dairy and vegetable producers. Prior to their visit to Capitol Hill, the group spent time at the American Farm Bureau Federation headquarters where they were briefed on key issues. AFBF President Bob Stallman addressed the group and challenged them to develop into leaders who serve at all levels. Members of the group visited all 13 members of Georgia's U.S. Congressional delegation, and the group visited with Sens. Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson. As they met with their Congressmen, the young farmers discussed the impending farm bill, immigration and CERCLA, legislation that would classify animal manure as a toxic substance. “This is a great opportunity for our young farmers to see and learn how Washington works,” said GFB Young Farmer Chairman Leighton Cooley. “In our congressional meetings we were able to address the issues and tell our story and concerns for the future of Georgia agriculture. Everyone in the group was grateful to Georgia Farm Bureau for this excellent trip to come to Washington and learn.” During a luncheon meeting with the young farmers, GFB President Zippy Duvall challenged the group to speak up and be involved, not only in Washington, but also with their local county Farm Bureaus. He told them he was a participant in the D.C. trip some 20 years ago and stood before them today as the president of Georgia Farm Bureau. “Do not underestimate your potential to grow and become the leaders that will guide our wonderful organization in the future,” Duvall said. For more information on the GFB Young Farmer program, contact Andy Lucas, YF program coordinator at 1-800-342-1192 ext. 5224 or by e-mail