STATE DISCUSSION MEET:
The Discussion Meet is designed to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each participant. This competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. Successful participants are productive thinkers rather than emotional persuaders and assist the group in creating ways to implement the solutions discussed and highlight Farm Bureau’s involvement in those actions/steps.
*The State Discussion Meet happens at the TFBF Annual Convention in December.
COLLEGIATE DISCUSSION MEET:
The Collegiate Discussion Meet is designed to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each college-age participant. This competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a predetermined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. Successful participants are productive thinkers rather than emotional persuaders and assist the group in creating ways to implement the solutions discussed and highlight Farm Bureau’s involvement in those actions/steps.
All undergraduate agriculture students or undergraduate students involved in agriculture in someway are encouraged to participate in this professional development contest. Farm Bureau membership is required and only cost $30 per year per family. If you or your family has any Farm Bureau services, you may already be a member. The contest will be held during Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers Summer Conference in July in Lebanon. Apply below to be in the contest and contact your county Farm Bureau office to register for the conference. Contact Dan Strasser for the Discussion Meet Guide.
2025 Tennessee YF&R Discussion Meet and Collegiate Discussion Meet Topics
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Urban sprawl presents significant challenges for farmers and ranchers, impacting access to land and resources. We see that 1.9 million acres of agricultural land are lost to development each year. How can Farm Bureau help promote responsible growth in communities while mitigating the loss of farms, ranches, and the agrarian way of life
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Technology has made the world more interconnected than ever, creating new avenues for communication with policymakers. How can digital engagement be leveraged to effectively connect Farm Bureau members with their local, state, and national elected and appointed officials?
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There are numerous resources available to support seamless farm and ranch succession planning. How can Farm Bureau help increase understanding, access and utilization of tools and resources that help facilitate the smooth transition of land and capital from one generation to the next?
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Farmers and ranchers are at the forefront of environmental stewardship. From soil health to local ecosystems, producers are concerned about how to be both environmentally and financially sustainable. How can farmers and ranchers effectively advance environmental stewardship while balancing the needs of their farms?
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Farm Bureau offers a diverse range of member benefits at the state and national levels. What strategies can be implemented to ensure members are fully informed about the savings on products and services available to them? Additionally, how can young farmers and ranchers leverage these industry relationships to strengthen local partnerships and increase utilization of these discounts to keep their operations running smoothly?
*Email Dan Strasser at dstrasser@tfbf.com for this year’s discussion meet book.
As part of your application, you MUST submit a complete vendor packet (W9 and ACH info with proof of account routing). Find the packet below and upload it when prompted at the end of your application.
Discussion Meet Registration
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