Meeker County Farm Bureau Hosts Successful Member Appreciation Picnic and Annual Meeting
On Thursday, August 14, more than 300 members and guests gathered at A Maze’n Farmyard for the Meeker County Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting and Member Appreciation Picnic. Attendees enjoyed a fantastic meal together and families spent the evening exploring all of the activities the farmyard has to offer.
“This gathering is one of my favorite nights of the year,” said Meeker County Farm Bureau President Matt Johnson. “It’s our chance to celebrate what we’ve accomplished together, thank the people who make it possible, and look ahead to the future.”
Honoring Farm Families
Minnesota Farm Bureau President addressing the annual meeting.
One highlight of the evening was the recognition of five Sesquicentennial Farms in Meeker County. These farms, which have been in the same family for 150 years or more, represent generations of commitment to agriculture and community. Families honored included:
Pearson Farm – Lamont & Nancy Pearson, Darwin Township, established in 1856
Family of Robert & Orpha Smith (William R. Smith), Darwin Township, established in 1866
Dougherty Family Partnership – Colin & Thomas Dougherty, Harvey Township, established in 1867
Milton & Joyce Housman Family, Darwin Township, established in 1872
Bruce & Joleen Runke, Cedar Mills Township, established in 1874
“These families are the backbone of our county and a living testimony to the perseverance of Minnesota agriculture,” Johnson said. Each family was presented with a complimentary Farm Bureau membership and a commemorative sign.
Board Member and County Commissioner Steve Schmitt also recognized Rick and Sarah Ahlgren and their family as the 2025 Meeker County Farm Family of the Year. “The Ahlgren family represents the very best of Meeker County agriculture,” Schmitt said. “Their dedication to their farm, their innovation in dairying, and their involvement in the community set an example for all of us.”
Legislative and Policy Updates
Minnesota Farm Bureau President Dan Glessing addressed the crowd, highlighting recent state and federal wins for agriculture. These included a plus-up in funding for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, as well as expanded support for crop insurance, conservation, and an increase in commodity reference prices in the federal reconciliation bill signed into law in July.
Glessing also provided an update on the Minnesota Foundation for Agriculture and encouraged members to step into advocacy.
County Farm Bureau Highlights
President Matt Johnson also shared several highlights from Meeker County Farm Bureau’s work over the past year. One of the most memorable moments was a trip to Washington, D.C., where he and his family joined other Farm Bureau members to advocate for agriculture. Johnson noted with pride that even his teenage sons had the chance to speak directly with policymakers about the challenges facing farmers today. He added that the warm reception from Minnesota’s congressional delegation was a testament to Farm Bureau’s reputation as a trusted advocate: “The open doors we experienced are proof of the relationships Farm Bureau has built over many years of showing up, telling our story, and working in good faith on behalf of farmers and rural communities.”
Closer to home, the county expanded its agricultural literacy efforts by bringing the popular “I Love Strawberries” program to Eden Valley-Watkins Elementary School, giving even more students a hands-on opportunity to learn where their food comes from.
The county also introduced the Seed of Service Award, a new recognition for outstanding FFA seniors who have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to serving others. Johnson highlighted this award as a way to encourage the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Finally, members celebrated the launch of the county’s new website, MeekerFarmBureau.com, designed to be a central hub for news, membership, and connections with the local ag community.
“Through all these efforts, one thing remains clear: Farm Bureau is a place for everyone who cares about agriculture,” Johnson said. “Whether you have a lot of time or just a little, your voice and your involvement matter.”
Policy Development and Bylaws
Vice President Alan Barka led the policy development session, reminding members: “The strength of Farm Bureau comes from our dedicated grassroots members. We play a vital role in shaping policies that preserve, promote, and protect agriculture.”
Members voted to adopt new public policy resolutions on data privacy and product labeling. In addition, members approved updates to the county bylaws to modernize communication methods, clarify transfer processes, and update board structure.
Looking Ahead
As the meeting closed, Johnson extended an invitation for all members to step more fully into Farm Bureau’s mission. “Looking ahead, I want you to know there is a place for YOU in Farm Bureau. Whether you can give an hour a month or an hour a year, your involvement matters.”
The Meeker County Farm Bureau extends sincere thanks to everyone who attended, volunteered, and contributed to making the day a success. Events like this highlight the strength of our local Farm Bureau family and the important role we play in supporting agriculture, youth, and community.
If you care about agriculture and the future of our rural communities, there’s a place for you in the Meeker County Farm Bureau. Join us, add your voice, and be part of the work we’re doing together.
