In October 2024, the Vermont Farm Bureau hosted the Bridging the Divide conference, bringing together 16 agriculture-related organizations. The goal was to identify common priorities and strengthen advocacy for Vermont’s farmers, foresters, and horticulturalists.
Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Anson Tebbetts opened the event, emphasizing the importance of unity among agriculture organizations. Participants shared their perspectives on Vermont’s agricultural strengths and challenges, laying the groundwork for future collaboration.
One of the main areas of agreement was the need for a modernized farm bill, which all groups recognized as crucial to the industry’s success. Additionally, they committed to working together on legislative issues, particularly as agricultural voices remain a minority in Vermont’s government.
To ensure continued progress, the participating organizations agreed to meet annually to review goals and refine their shared advocacy efforts.
Strategic Action Fund
This event was supported by a Strategic Action Fund grant from the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). This fund provides up to $5,000 in grants to state Farm Bureaus with fewer than 25,000 members, helping them address priority issues and strengthen advocacy efforts.
Several state Farm Bureaus, including Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas, contributed to the fund, reinforcing national support for local agriculture advocacy.
By fostering collaboration and continued engagement, Vermont’s agricultural organizations are working towards a stronger, more unified voice in shaping policies that impact the farming community.