By 1808Delaware
Since its establishment in 1919, the Delaware County Farm Bureau (DCFB) has been a cornerstone of agricultural advocacy, community engagement, and education in Delaware County. With a mission rooted in supporting local agriculture and fostering connections within the community, DCFB’s initiatives span a wide array of programs, events, and services that benefit farmers, families, and residents alike. Below is an overview of the key activities and contributions that define DCFB’s role in Delaware County.
Beef Donations: Fighting Hunger, Supporting Community
One of the standout initiatives of the Delaware County Farm Bureau is its commitment to addressing food insecurity in the region. Through its Beef Donations program, DCFB partners with local organizations like People in Need to provide much-needed protein to families facing hunger. This initiative not only helps to feed those in need but also raises awareness about food insecurity in Delaware County. By engaging individuals, families, and groups in this cause, DCFB encourages the community to take an active role in supporting their neighbors.
Scholarships: Investing in the Future
Education is a key focus for DCFB, which is reflected in its Scholarships program. Each spring, the Farm Bureau awards scholarships to deserving students pursuing higher education in agriculture or related fields. This investment in the next generation of agricultural leaders underscores DCFB’s dedication to fostering educational opportunities that will benefit both the local community and the broader agricultural industry.
Benefit in the Barn: A Celebration of Agriculture and Music
The Benefit in the Barn event is a unique celebration that combines agriculture with music and community spirit. Co-hosted by the Delaware County Farm Bureau and Union County Farm Bureau, this annual event brings the community together on the farm for a night of entertainment. All net proceeds from the event support the Delaware County Hunger Alliance and The Hope Center in Union County, furthering DCFB’s commitment to addressing food insecurity in the region.
Public Policy: Shaping the Future of Agriculture
Each spring, DCFB holds a Public Policy meeting to discuss and address issues that impact the agricultural community. These discussions culminate in the development and voting on policies at the county annual meeting. The policies set during these meetings guide DCFB’s programming and advocacy efforts for the coming year, ensuring that the needs and concerns of the local agricultural community are represented and addressed.
Buy Local Directory: Supporting Local Producers
DCFB’s Buy Local Directory is a vital resource for connecting residents with local goods and services. Distributed at Farm Bureau events throughout the year, the directory not only supports local farmers and producers by providing them with a valuable marketing platform but also encourages residents to shop locally. This initiative helps strengthen the local economy and promotes sustainability within the community.
County Fair: Promoting Agricultural Education
The Delaware County Farm Bureau is a proud supporter of the County Fair, where it provides an agricultural education tent that offers family-friendly learning experiences for all fair-goers. This interactive tent is designed to educate the public about agriculture and its importance to the community. Additionally, DCFB supports the Junior Fair livestock auction, furthering its commitment to youth involvement in agriculture.
Women in Ag Brunch: Celebrating Women in Agriculture
The Women in Ag Brunch is an annual event hosted by DCFB that celebrates the contributions and achievements of women in the agricultural community. This event recognizes the vital roles that women play in farming and agriculture, highlighting their leadership, innovation, and dedication to the industry.
Farm Safety Yard Signs: Promoting Safety on Rural Roads
In a bid to enhance safety for farmers on the road, DCFB partnered with Hollenbaugh Insurance to create and distribute Farm Safety Yard Signs. These signs are designed to increase visibility of farmers and agricultural vehicles on rural roadways, reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert. This initiative is part of DCFB’s broader commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its members and the community.
National Ag Week: Honoring Agriculture’s Role in Delaware County
In recognition of the critical role agriculture plays in the community, the Delaware County Commissioners, with support from DCFB, declared March 21-27, 2023, as National Agriculture Week. During this week, commissioners received baskets filled with locally grown and produced items, alongside information about the significance of agriculture in the county. This celebration of National Ag Week helps to raise awareness of the importance of supporting local agriculture.
Board of Trustees: Leadership and Governance
The Board of Trustees of the Delaware County Farm Bureau meets monthly to oversee programming and membership activities. This dedicated group of individuals works year-round to ensure that DCFB’s initiatives align with its mission and effectively serve the needs of the agricultural community in Delaware County.
Conclusion
The Delaware County Farm Bureau plays an indispensable role in supporting and promoting agriculture in Delaware County. Through its various programs, events, and initiatives, DCFB fosters a sense of community, addresses critical issues like food insecurity and farm safety, and invests in the future of agriculture through scholarships and public policy advocacy. As the county’s agricultural landscape continues to evolve, DCFB remains a steadfast advocate for farmers and the broader community, ensuring that agriculture thrives for generations to come.
