Key Issues to be Addressed at AFBF Convention

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON D.C., December 6, 2006 - American Farm Bureau Federation’s members are invited to participate in a series of conferences at the AFBF 88th annual convention, Jan. 7-10, 2007, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Crucial issues directly impacting U.S. farmers and ranchers will be addressed by Farm Bureau leaders, as well as agricultural experts from various organizations, universities and agricultural businesses.

The theme of the 2007 convention is “Scenic Vistas, Expanding Horizons,” which encompasses issues within all sectors of agriculture. The main focus of the conferences, as well as the overall convention will be sustaining the present and preparing for the future through innovation and proactive policy making.

The 2007 Farm Bill

The 2002 farm bill is set to expire in September and both the House and the Senate Agriculture committees will more than likely spend a great deal of time addressing the farm bill during 2007. Discussions at a 2007 Farm Bill conference will include a wide array of topics, such as a possible extension or changes to the current farm bill, renewable fuels’ relationship to commodity programs and numerous livestock issues.

“More groups than ever want to be a part of writing the next farm bill. This session will provide an overview of some of the many issues likely to be discussed during the farm bill debate,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman.

Biofuels & Energy:  What the Future Holds

In response to the mounting concerns about energy prices, the American Farm Bureau Federation has been an active proponent of promoting renewable fuels produced by America’s farmers and ranchers. The Biofuels and Energy conference will primarily focus on the opportunities and challenges farmers may face in the near future, as a result of the rapidly growing biofuels industry.

“This session was designed to answer questions regarding the biofuels industry,” said Stallman. “Many farmers and ranchers are enthused about this growing opportunity and at the same time have concerns about effects on other ag sectors.”

In addition, the session will address more advanced technology presenting itself in the industry. For example, research to make a commercially viable cellulosic ethanol industry.

Trade Prospects:  2007 and Beyond

Trade is a critical component in sustaining profitability for U.S. farmers and ranchers. This conference will focus on trade negotiations, extension of Trade Promotion Authority and opportunities for working with the new Congress on trade issues and other trade-related topics of interest, according to Stallman.

Addressing Misconceptions About Agriculture

Farmers and ranchers are often confronted with misconceptions regarding their profession and even face derogatory claims made against common agricultural practices with no science to justify such challenges. This session is intended to aid farmers and ranchers in challenging such claims and protecting their livelihoods. The conference will introduce a new AFBF education tool that will help target some key issues and clear up misconceptions.

“The tool kit is packed full of sound, science-based, factual research that will give producers what they need to be a proactive voice for modern agricultural practices,” Stallman said. “The kit’s 35 issues cover topics from global food issues to environmental issues and nutrition to animal welfare.”

Attendees will learn how to deliver complex information in a format that everyone can understand and use to respond in a factual manner.

Professional Development

Several conferences focusing on professional development for agricultural leaders will also be available for attendees. Sessions will be focused on making meetings more meaningful, confronting situations from an ethics perspective, time management and much more.

Policy Development

The convention concludes with the annual meeting of state Farm Bureau delegates discussing and voting on the positions that will guide AFBF in 2007.

Nearly 5,000 Farm Bureau members from around the country are expected to travel to Salt Lake City. Members can register for the convention by contacting their state Farm Bureau office.

-30-

CONTACTS:                         Tracy Taylor Grondine                                        Mike Deering       

(202) 406-3642                                                       (202) 406-3640      

tracyg@fb.org                                                      miked@fb.org