WHAT IS THE YOUNG FARMERS & RANCHERS PROGRAM?

The Kern County Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers program includes both men and women between the ages of 18-35. The objective of the Young Farmers & Ranchers program is to provide leadership in building a more effective Farm Bureau to preserve our individual freedoms and expand our opportunities in agriculture.

Leaders of the Kern County Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers are committed to engaging and educating our members as advocates for agriculture. Today, more than ever, consumers are far removed from those who produce the food, fiber and fuel they use every day. We need to share our stories beyond the farm. The YF&R program helps members develop and improve leadership skills; provides a platform to promote agriculture; and introduces members to opportunities outside of Farm Bureau. Taking on leadership roles within the KCFB YF&R program isn’t something we do for ourselves. We do it for others, to continue the mission of Farm Bureau and secure the future for agriculture.

As a member of Young Farmers and Ranchers your voice will join those of your peers to speak out for agriculture. As you develop your skills and knowledge, your efforts will help Farm Bureau effectively represent all farmers and ranchers. YF&R is involved in fund raising events that help support agricultural outreach projects aimed at educating the public on the benefits and importance of agriculture. These projects include the Annual Charity Farmers Market and assisting with the Farm Bureau Bounty dinner and Golf Tournament. 

YF&R members also can attend the State YF&R Leadership Conference every year in February. This is a great opportunity to polish leadership skills as well as network with other YF&R members from around the state.

The Kern County Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers have been busy planning many events! If you are interested in joining our group or looking for ways to be involved, don’t be shy and start by contacting kernyfr@kerncfb.com.

Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/KernYoungFarmersAndRanchers

Follow us on Instagram @kern_yfr.

Kern County Young Farmers & Ranchers President

Chair: Tim Collins

Vice Chair: Katie Verhoef

Secretary: Emily Lopez

Treasurer: Amy Mebane

Activities: Kelley Higgins

Social Media: Christine Johnson

GROWING THROUGH ACTION

  • Acquiring cutting edge information through participation in educational conferences
  • Building a network with fellow farmers, ranchers and agricultural enthusiasts
  • Earning recognition for their achievements in business excellence and leadership success
  • Continuing their professional development and personal growth

LEADING THROUGH SERVICE

  • Providing workable solutions for issues affecting agriculture
  • Influencing public policies that affect agriculture now and in the future
  • Stepping up and telling the story of agriculture
  • Serving their communities by volunteering and making a difference