By Andi Anderson
Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) welcomed more than 250 farmers and agriculture industry partners to its first-ever Critical Issues Summit, held at the Embassy Suites in Noblesville, Indiana.
The event focused on the future of agriculture, challenges facing farmers, and opportunities for growth in a changing world.
INFB president Randy Kron highlighted the importance of the summit, saying, “The Critical Issues Summit was full of meaningful discussion around the future of farming and the challenges facing agriculture today. Farmers are resilient.
We adapt, we innovate, we figure things out, and we know we accomplish more when we work together.”
The day featured keynote speaker Brett Sciotto, founder and CEO of Idealyst Innovation, who addressed topics such as farming’s future, the role of technology, and global relationships affecting agriculture.
Afternoon sessions included expert-led panels on trade, taxes, and the role of local government in supporting rural communities.
Kron emphasized that while challenges remain, there is hope for growth. “The optimism our members heard from national trade experts, state legislators and local officials today about the opportunities we have for growth really left us feeling positive about some really tough conversations,” he noted.
The summit also included remarks from key Indiana leaders, such as Secretary Lisa Hershman of the Indiana Office of Management and Budget, Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb, and Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith.
Organizers believe the event created a foundation for ongoing dialogue among farmers, policymakers, and industry leaders.
Kron closed by encouraging participants to continue these conversations, stating, “The event we had today really just scratched the surface on the issues our members are concerned about. We just hope the conversations we had will continue outside these walls and help ultimately advance our work to protect and enhance the future of agriculture in Indiana and beyond.”
This inaugural summit marks an important step for Indiana Farm Bureau in ensuring farmers have a voice in shaping the future of agriculture.
Photo Credit: indiana-farm-bureau
Categories: Indiana, Education