Florida Young Farmers & Ranchers — Polk County Farm Bureau
The Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) program is designed for Farm Bureau members between the ages of 18 and 35 who are involved in agriculture — whether as full-time farmers, ranchers, agribusiness professionals, or agricultural advocates. The program develops the next generation of agricultural leaders through networking, education, competitions, and hands-on advocacy.
Florida's YF&R program is one of the most active in the nation, with county-level committees feeding into district and statewide activities — including the annual YF&R Leadership Conference held each summer. Polk County Farm Bureau's local YF&R chapter is an active part of this statewide network.
What YF&R Members Do
Networking
Build lasting relationships with fellow young farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness professionals from across Florida at regional and statewide events.
Leadership Development
Develop the skills needed to lead in agriculture — from farm management and business planning to public speaking and community engagement.
Legislative Advocacy
Participate in Farm Bureau Day in Tallahassee, meet with state legislators, and make your voice heard on issues affecting Florida agriculture.
Community Involvement
Give back through community service projects, agricultural education outreach, and public relations activities that connect consumers to farming.
Competitions
Compete in the Discussion Meet, Achievement Award, and Excellence in Agriculture Award — showcasing your knowledge, leadership, and agricultural achievements.
Ag Innovation
Explore new technologies, sustainable practices, and entrepreneurial opportunities through workshops, farm tours, and the AFBF Ag Innovation Challenge.
YF&R Leadership Conference
Annual Statewide Leadership Conference
Each summer, Florida Farm Bureau hosts the statewide YF&R Leadership Conference — a multi-day event bringing together young agricultural leaders from across Florida for workshops, speakers, competitions, and networking. The conference is one of the premier leadership development opportunities for young people in Florida agriculture.
Polk County YF&R members may be eligible for a scholarship to attend. Contact the PCFB office for details on scholarship availability and registration.
YF&R Competitions
Florida Farm Bureau's YF&R program features three competitive events that recognize outstanding young agricultural leaders. County winners advance to district and then state competition, with state winners eligible to compete at the AFBF Annual Convention.
Discussion Meet
A facilitated group discussion on a current agricultural topic. Participants are evaluated on their knowledge, communication skills, and ability to engage constructively with peers. Winners advance from county to district to state.
Learn More at FFBFAchievement Award
Recognizes YF&R members who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, Farm Bureau involvement, and contributions to agriculture. The state winner competes at the AFBF Annual Convention.
Learn More at FFBFExcellence in Agriculture Award
Honors YF&R members who are not full-time farmers but are actively involved in agriculture and Farm Bureau. Recognizes the diverse ways young people contribute to the agricultural community.
Learn More at FFBFPolk County YF&R
Polk County Farm Bureau's local YF&R chapter is an active part of the Florida YF&R network. Our members participate in county, district, and statewide activities — and the chapter supports local young agricultural leaders through the Will Putnam YF&R Scholarship Fund, awarded annually to a Polk County high school senior pursuing a career in agriculture.
Quick Links
Get Involved in YF&R
Ages 18–35 and involved in agriculture? Join Polk County Farm Bureau and connect with Florida's next generation of farm leaders.