Local leaders discuss, pass policy at annual meeting

Cass County was represented at the annual meeting of the state’s largest general farm and ranch organization in December. Four delegates from Cass County Farm Bureau traveled to Corpus Christi Dec. 3-5 where they helped shape the policy direction of Texas Farm Bureau (TFB).

“Texas Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization,” Brian Whatley, Cass County Farm Bureau president, said. “The needs of the entire state are considered by the voting body to help address issues related to farmers, ranchers and rural communities.”

Voting delegates supported a resolution that would establish an assistance program for full or partial reimbursement to landowners for property damages due to illegal bailouts and chases.

Other resolutions approved by delegates pertained to eminent domain. Delegates supported requirements for companies with easements to install and maintain erosion control methods where the easement crosses a stream, creek, river or other erosion-prone areas identified by the property owner.

Delegates also supported a resolution that opposes the use of eminent domain to acquire private property for renewable energy projects.

On the national level, delegates approved policy supporting the creation and enforcement of a registry of all lands currently owned by foreign interests or foreign individuals. Any future purchases of land would also need to be registered at closing.

The TFB Annual Meeting includes district meetings for members, a business session, exhibits from companies offering TFB members benefits and young farmer and rancher competitions offering prizes and scholarships to TFB member-families.

Gov. Greg Abbott addressed the members via video remarks, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick addressed the audience during the opening general session.

“This has been a challenging year for agriculture, but we’ve continued to grow our crops and raise livestock in the face of uncertainty,” Whatley said. “The annual meeting was a chance for farmers and ranchers from across the state to share concerns, discuss solutions and to help move agriculture forward. “

The following Farm Bureau leaders represented Cass County at the TFB 88th Annual Meeting in Corpus Christi: Brian & Marcie Whatley and Mike & Laurie Harp.

State resolutions adopted at the TFB annual meeting become policies that guide the organization. National resolutions are sent to the American Farm Bureau Federation for consideration during the virtual convention in January.

For more information on the TFB annual meeting, visit https://texasfarmbureau.org/annualmeeting.