Improving Farmers' Quality of Life
The Florida Farm Bureau, serving 60 counties and representing more than 132,000 members, is an agricultural organization in Florida that advocates for farmers and advances agrarian interests across the state. Its mission supports Florida's farmers, enhancing their quality of life, and fosters community involvement and volunteerism to build stronger rural communities.
Founded in the 1930s amidst the economic hardships of the Great Depression, the Florida Farm Bureau emerged from the vision of five agricultural pioneers: J.J. Banks, Henry Pringle, W.L. Burton, Lacy Thomas, and Frank Laird. Originally part of the Florida Citrus Growers Inc., they were inspired to form a broader agricultural organization after a meeting with the American Farm Bureau in Chicago, where they were encouraged to dissolve the citrus-focused association and create an organization to support the broader interests of Florida's farmers. The establishment of the Florida Farm Bureau represented a commitment to unify and advocate for agricultural producers statewide.
Providing Essential Public Information and Tackling Key Challenges
Since its inception, the Florida Farm Bureau represented the interests of farmers by shaping public policy, organizing specialized committees, and conducting agricultural research. These efforts provide valuable public information, enhance farmer support, and address issues such as market access, crop insurance, land preservation, and environmental sustainability issues. Through its work, the Florida Farm Bureau serves as a voice for farmers, helping them navigate economic, regulatory, and environmental challenges while promoting a sustainable and prosperous future for Florida agriculture.