GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Grassroots members, agricultural leaders, and advocates from across the Sunshine State are converging on the Atlantic coast this week for a landmark gathering. The Florida Farm Bureau Federation, the state’s largest general agricultural organization representing more than 125,000 member-families dedicated to enhancing farm enterprises and improving rural communities, has officially kicked off its 85th state annual meeting at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort.
The multi-day conference serves as the premier annual assembly for the organization, bringing together farmers, ranchers, and rural stakeholders who form the foundational backbone of Florida’s agricultural economy. Throughout the week, attendees will participate in collaborative sessions, celebrate industry achievements, and chart the legislative and organizational course for the future. As the state faces evolving economic pressures, environmental considerations, and development challenges, this milestone 85th meeting provides a critical forum for grassroots members to unify their voices and establish collective priorities.
A central highlight of this year’s convention program is the scheduled keynote address by acclaimed Tampa-based filmmaker Todd Wiseman, Jr. Wiseman, whose creative work is currently breathing new cinematic life into Patrick Smith’s iconic and beloved historical novel A Land Remembered, is slated to address the assembly on Thursday, October 29, at 11:15 a.m. Smith’s literary masterpiece has long resonated deeply with Floridians for its sweeping portrayal of the state’s pioneer history, environmental transformation, and the relentless endurance of generations of working families who carved out a living from the Florida wilderness. Wiseman’s participation bridges the cultural heritage of Florida’s agricultural past with modern storytelling, offering attendees a reflective and inspiring perspective on the enduring connection between the land and its people.
Beyond the featured keynote presentation, the annual meeting places a strong emphasis on honoring excellence within the agricultural community through a comprehensive series of award and recognition programs. These ceremonies are designed to shine a spotlight on outstanding young farmers and ranchers who represent the dynamic future of the industry, recognizing their innovation, dedication, and leadership. Additionally, the organization will pay tribute to supportive state lawmakers who have championed sensible agricultural policies in the legislative arena, as well as celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of county Farm Bureaus and individual grassroots members who have demonstrated distinguished service to agriculture over the past year. These accolades underscore the vital role that community-level engagement and legislative advocacy play in sustaining Florida’s diverse farming sectors.
In tandem with the celebratory events and inspirational addresses, the gathering serves as a vital working session for the organization’s governance. Florida Farm Bureau voting delegates will engage in rigorous discussions to debate, refine, and ultimately approve policy resolutions. These policy decisions are of paramount importance, as they will directly guide the organization’s legislative advocacy efforts in the coming years and be officially adopted as the comprehensive Farm Bureau policy platform for 2027. By forging consensus on key issues ranging from water management and land use to property rights and market regulations, the delegates ensure that the collective voice of Florida’s agricultural producers is clearly articulated to lawmakers and regulatory bodies.
As the state’s premier general agricultural organization, the Florida Farm Bureau continues to serve as an indispensable advocate for the families who produce food, fiber, and environmental benefits across rural and suburban landscapes alike. The 85th state annual meeting at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort highlights the resilience, adaptability, and enduring commitment of Florida’s agricultural community as it honors its historic roots while proactively shaping the policy landscape of tomorrow.
