Courtesy of the N.D. Farm Bureau

 

NDFB members gathered to celebrate the 77th Annual Meeting and form policy that will guide the organization into the next year, on Nov. 22-23, at the Holiday Inn, Fargo.

The annual meeting kicked off Friday afternoon with NDFB President Daryl Lies addressing NDFB delegates. He spoke about the importance of having a strong voice and strong message for agriculture.

“It is more important than ever, during these challenging times, to have a strong voice and strong message to share on behalf of our great farmers and ranchers,” Lies said. “Creating relationships with elected officials and reaching out to consumers are equally as important — these are the folks we are communicating our message to.”

This year’s growing season hasn’t been easy and President Lies reminded attendees the importance of reaching out to family and friends.

“Farmers and ranchers are resilient but there are stressors that come with it,” said Lies. “Challenging times aren’t easy to talk about, but are necessary to talk about.”

Lies thanked the members for their involvement on priorities issues for NDFB and encouraged them to continue being the voice of agriculture.

“Our strength at NDFB continues to be the great members and volunteer county Farm Bureau leaders,” said Lies. “I never underestimate the influence we can have when members are engaged in the issues.”

Lies has been president of NDFB since 2015. He is from Douglas, N.D. and raises hogs, sheep, and goats with an emphasis in show animals.

“We continue to be the leader in protecting private property rights,” said Lies. “Private property rights are the basic foundation of maintaining our freedom, opportunity and self-reliance.”

The annual meeting will continue through Saturday, with an evening banquet and entertainment from comedian Tim the Dairy Farmer.

NDFB is the most effective general farm and ranch organization in the state of North Dakota, with 27,000 members and 50 organized county Farm Bureaus.