Centennial Anniversary of the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation

Floor Speech

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Mr. BARRASSO. Madam President, in just a few weeks, the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation will hold their annual meeting in Laramie, WY. This year is unique, as the organization marks their 100th meeting and celebrates ten decades of service to farmers and ranchers across the State. Without question, the agriculture industry in the State, and in the region, has seen immense benefit from the important work the Federation employees do every day.

Today, the Wyoming Farm Bureau is integral in gathering public opinion and disseminating information to farmers and ranchers across the state. Officially, their mission identifies ``The primary goal of WYFB is to take appropriate actions to protect private property rights and help members achieve an equitable return on their investment.'' Just as they did in 1920, the organization brings individuals together to identify common threats to their way of life. Wyoming Farm Bureau worked closely with the national organization during the 2015 waters of the United States rulemaking process to effectively communicate the negative impacts the rule would have on those who are the primary caretakers of our Nation's natural resources.

As chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, I invited the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation president, Todd Fornstrom, to share his story. Todd emphasized the need to protect clean, plentiful water sources while providing predictability for States, counties, and communities. Through his testimony, Todd skillfully shared the undeniable link between agricultural production and the Wyoming way of life and Wyoming's commitment to protecting our precious resources.

I believe you can tell the strength of an organization by the dedication shown by its members and staff. Todd Fornstrom is serving his third elected term as president. Executive Vice President Ken Hamilton recently celebrated his 36th anniversary with the organization, Media and Member Relations Director Kerin Clark just passed 25 years, and Brett Moline has served Farm Bureau for 13 years. Every one of the 23 counties in Wyoming has a local Farm Bureau organization to build policy and address local issues. The county committees are key parts of the communities they serve.

Without question, farmers and ranchers faced many challenges when the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation was founded in 1920. Just as they did 100 years ago, farmers and ranchers continue to work together today to produce abundant, high-quality food and fiber for their neighbors and communities around the world. I can only imagine the challenging discussions that prompted the first meeting in 1920, but I am certain early members left that meeting with the same confidence they will leave the 100th meeting.

Working in agriculture is not simply a job. It is a calling, and sometimes, a challenging way of life. I rise today with great appreciation for the work Wyoming farmers and ranchers have done, and continue to do, for our great State. My wife, Bobbi, joins me in congratulating each member of the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation on their 100th anniversary.

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