When most consumers hear “Farm Bureau,” they immediately think of insurance. But, in reality, Farm Bureau serves a larger role than just providing insurance.
The Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation serves as the largest and strongest general farm organization in Mississippi, with more than 182,000 member families in 82 county Farm Bureaus. Through a grassroots structure, the organization ensures the future of family farms, locally grown food and rural land.
By becoming a member of MFBF, Mississippians join a growing community of families who support agriculture in the state.
“A Farm Bureau membership is one of the most economical investments someone can make each year, as it provides valuable benefits and resources to save money and stay connected to agriculture in Mississippi,” Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation President Mike McCormick said.
Some of the many benefits of being a Farm Bureau member include saving money, having a team of trained professionals advocating on the behalf of Mississippians on the local, state and national level, and having the ability to stay informed with Mississippi agriculture through multiple publications.
MFBF members have access to valuable discounts and savings on vehicles, travel, farm equipment and more. They also have the ability to purchase Farm Bureau insurance. In order to purchase Farm Bureau insurance, Mississippians must be a member of MFBF.
In addition to saving money, a MFBF membership provides Mississippians with trained staff to advocate on their behalf at local, state and national levels.
Since its inception in 1922, the purpose of MFBF has been to provide a unified voice for Mississippi agriculture in the legislative arena, promote farm markets and serve as a leader in the state’s agricultural community.
“Today, less than two percent of the U.S. population are farmers,” McCormick said. “As people’s understanding of farm life decreases, it becomes increasingly important for farmers and ranchers to have an organization to support them. That is what our county offices and employees strive to do each day.”
One of the distinguishing features between Farm Bureau and most other organizations is the “grassroots” philosophy. Each county in Mississippi has a board of directors made up of farmers and ranchers in that county. MFBF has a 20-member State Board of Directors made up of farmers and ranchers throughout the state. These boards meet multiple times a year to discuss issues and develop policy, as well as serve in different capacities within their communities.
Through the Farm Bureau structure, beginning at the county level and proceeding through the state and national levels, producers annually evaluate the problems of agriculture and rural living and make recommendations to formulate Farm Bureau policy.
“Our structure is unique – it allows every farmer to have a say on local, state and national levels,” McCormick said. “When I walk into the state or national capitol, people are more willing to listen because they know what I present came from the local level.”
MFBF members also have access to materials, like Mississippi Farm Country magazine, to help keep them informed on issues impacting Mississippi agriculture.
To learn more about MFBF, visit msfb.org or come by your local Clarke County Farm Bureau office at 120 Carlson Ave, Quitman.
