AFR convention Feb. 19-20

More than 1,000 Oklahoma agricultural leaders are expected to attend the annual convention of the American Farmers & Ranchers, Feb. 19-20, at the Embassy Suites Hotel, Norman, Okla.

“We expect a lively and engaged conversation about the issues critical for rural Oklahoma,” Terry Detrick, AFR president, said.

State Question 777, Right to Farm, is among the issues expected to draw the most attention.  The constitutional amendment is on the general election ballot in November. 

“SQ777 will protect family farmers and ranchers from unreasonable government interference and attacks from animal rights groups,” Detrick said.  “It also protects consumer choice as it will allow us to continue producing a wide variety of nutritious products at an affordable price.”

Other issues include risk management, the agriculture economy and leadership. 

Among the special convention guests are Chandler Goule, Sr. VP of programs for National Farmers Union, Kendall Brashears, executive director, Oklahoma FFA Foundation, Francie Tolle, director, regional Risk Management Agency, John Doak, Oklahoma Insurance commissioner, and Terry Peach, executive director, Oklahoma Farm Service Agency.

With the theme “Insuring Rural Tomorrows,” the group is focused on serving rural Oklahoma, Detrick said.

“We are reaching out to our young leaders, surfacing and developing tools that will help them succeed,” Detrick said.

A traditional highlight of the annual convention is the Saturday evening banquet, Feb. 20.  Insurance Commissioner John Doak will address the crowd, followed by award presentations and entertainment by comedian and songwriter Rik Roberts.

For complete details of the convention, go to www.iafr.com