“Growing Great Farm and Ranch Families”
November 17-18, Spearfish Holiday Inn

 Members of the state’s largest general farm and ranch organization will focus on Growing Great Farm and Ranch Families when they meet November 17-18 in Spearfish.  The 89^th Annual Meeting of the South Dakota Farm Bureau Federation (SDFB) will feature informational seminars on keeping the farm or ranch in the family, family dynamics, and current issues affecting agriculture.  Delegates representing county Farm Bureaus will elect board members and officers and set the organization’s policy for the coming year. 

 The convention starts Friday, November 17, with a seminar on keeping the farm or ranch in the family.  Issues affecting farmers and ranchers will be discussed during the afternoon delegate session and caucus meetings.  Friday evening events include a Vesper Service presented by the SDFB Women’s Committee and a Fun Night and auction sponsored by the SDFB Young Farmer and Rancher Committee. 

 Saturday morning will begin with a women’s business breakfast and an issues breakfast where Don Kopp of Rapid City will discuss environmental myths.  Dr. Ron Hanson from the University of Nebraska will give a presentation on “Fence Posts Talking to Each Other.” SDFB President Scott VanderWal notes, “Dr. Hanson is an entertaining and motivational speaker who stresses that we need to maintain family relationships.” Dr. Hanson has more than 30 years of experience in helping families improve communications, develop better working relationships, and resolve conflicts in a positive manner. 

 Kelli Ludlum, Director of Regulatory Relations for the American Farm Bureau Federation, will offer a view of Farm Bureau in the 109^th Congress.  Ms. Ludlum handles livestock issues including animal identification, health and welfare, as well as commodity exchange issues.

 President VanderWal, a cattle and grain producer from Volga, will give his annual report at the Saturday noon luncheon. During the noon luncheon, the Women’s Committee will be accepting donations for the Salvation Army and for America’s Second Harvest, the Nation’s Food Bank Network.

 The convention concludes Saturday evening with the Farm Family awards and recognition banquet.  Keynote speaker is Dr. Hanson. 

 All sessions will be held at the Spearfish Holiday Inn and are open to the public.  For more information or to register, contact the South Dakota Farm Bureau at 605-353-8050, or sdfb@basec.net.