AFR State Committee Conducts Policy Focus Group

OKLAHOMA CITY-The American Farmers & Ranchers (AFR) 2012 Policy Committee convened in Oklahoma City Dec. 6 to discuss proposed changes and additions to the organization's policy.

Committee members play an integral role in policy development. Policies formed, altered or approved during the committee meetings and then adopted by member delegates during the 2013 AFR State Convention Feb. 22-23 will govern AFR legislative efforts through the next year.

Topics of this year's discussion included private property rights, farm bill programs funding, water resources and conservation and disaster and drought relief for Oklahoma agricultural producers.

Representatives from an array of entities presented to the committee, including the Organization of Rural Oklahoma Schools, Oklahoma Career and Technology Education, the Oklahoma State School Boards Association, the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, Oklahoma Secretary of Environment, and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board. The group will hear from additional speakers and consider local and county resolutions at subsequent meetings.

"The AFR policy process is a fantastic example of grassroots legislative efforts in action," said AFR President Terry Detrick. "Through the members-only policy committee and resolutions from our local and county organizations, AFR members can have their voices heard at the state and national level."

Each year, AFR selects policy committee members from across Oklahoma. The appointed individuals are an accomplished and diverse group representing the broadest spectrum possible of the general AFR membership. This year's committee members include Matt Gard, Fairview; Stan Scherler, Walters; Dale Turner, Holdenville; Brett Morris, Ninnekah; Pete Adams, Stratford; Wade Parker, Locust Grove; Kermit Raab, Arapaho; Harvey Schroeder, Frederick; and Robert Acre, Canton.

American Farmers & Ranchers was established in 1905, and is headquartered in Oklahoma City. AFR is actively supportive of Oklahoma's agricultural industry and rural population, and provides educational, legislative, and cooperative programs across the state. AFR also provides insurance products statewide, and is recognized as a leading domestic insurance carrier in the state of Oklahoma.