Farmers and agribusiness professionals, ages 18-35, are invited to attend Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmer Conference on Jan. 27-28, 2023, at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. 

“This year’s conference theme is ‘Our Roots Run Deep,’” said Megan Hansen, Young Farmer Advisory Committee chair and Pottawattamie County farmer. “As young farmers, we’re grateful for those who have paved the way before us—planting that seed. As the next generation, we are intent on solidifying those roots by learning from experts and each other at this popular event that typically attracts between 500 to 600 young farmers.” 

The conference commences with ag industry tours followed by evening entertainment from comedian Tim the Dairy Farmer of Florida.

On Jan. 28, educational sessions will cover niche ag, soil health, farm taxes, navigating interest rate hikes, managing burnout, farm succession, food preservation, cattle feed efficiency and carbon credit programs. Attendees will also learn from fellow young farmers during a small business showcase and listen to the three Grow Your Future Award finalists pitch their ag-related business for a chance to win $7,500. 

Everyone is invited to participate in the Farm Bureau Discussion Meet, a cooperative dialogue on challenges impacting farming and rural America. Winners will compete at the 2023 Iowa Farm Bureau annual meeting in hopes to represent Iowa during the American Farm Bureau Federation Discussion Meet. 

The young farmer conference will conclude with keynote speaker Braxten Nielson who overcame the odds after a rodeo accident left him with a broken back and little chance of walking again.

Register by Jan. 13 for this members-only event by contacting your local county Farm Bureau. To view the conference agenda or become an Iowa Farm Bureau member, visit https://www.iowafarmbureau.com/Farmer-Resources/Farm-Bureau-Leaders/Young-Farmer-Program/Young-Farmer-Conference.