News

Local Ideas, Lasting Impact: County Leaders Share What Works in Member Engagement

6/12/2025

County Farm Bureau leaders shared creative, community-driven strategies to boost member engagement during a recent Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation panel. From pancake feeds and legislative updates to youth programs, goat roping, and local radio ads, panelists emphasized the importance of meeting members where they are. Whether through Ag Books for Kids, fair sponsorships, or personal outreach, the goal remains the same: building long-term relationships and showcasing the real value of Farm Bureau—both on the ground and in policy.

UW Students Gain Policy Perspective Through Farm Bureau

6/2/2025

University of Wyoming Collegiate Farm Bureau students recently traveled to Washington, D.C., for a firsthand look at agricultural policy and national advocacy. The trip combined historical tours with professional meetings, including visits to the U.S. Capitol, Department of the Interior, and American Farm Bureau. Former club president Jordan Anderson said the experience helped students understand how they fit into the broader Farm Bureau structure. The trip marked a milestone in rebuilding the UW chapter, which Anderson helped revive after COVID-19. For Anderson, the experience also shaped her communication skills and career path in agricultural advocacy and marketing.

Charges Dropped in Maude Case, But Questions Remain About Federal Overreach

5/28/2025

Criminal charges against South Dakota ranchers Charles and Heather Maude have been dropped following widespread public support and congressional pressure. The couple had faced felony charges over 50 acres near their ranch and the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, a boundary long disputed. The Trump administration condemned the case as “regulation by prosecution.” The Maudes, supported by agricultural groups including WyFB, say they were blindsided after attempting resolution with the Forest Service. USDA has launched a reporting portal to prevent similar cases.

USDA Closes Border Amid Rising Screwworm Risk; Wyoming Urged to Stay Vigilant

5/27/2025

The resurgence of the New World screwworm (NWS) in Mexico and Central America has raised alarms among U.S. animal health officials. While Wyoming benefits from its distance from the southern border, the state's vast grazing lands and limited surveillance infrastructure make the state particularly vulnerable to such outbreaks.

WyFB Awards Scholarships

5/27/2025

The Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation supports future ag leaders by awarding scholarships to nine students annually. This includes the $1,500 Livingston-King Scholarship, honoring past WyFB leaders, and eight $500 awards—five general and three for continuing education. Applicants shared how their career paths will impact rural America. By investing in students who are members or children of members, WyFB helps ensure a strong future for agriculture and rural communities across the state.

Ag Books for Kids 2025 Winners Announced

5/27/2025

The 2025 “Ag Books for Kids” program, led by the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmer & Rancher Committee, continues its mission of educating children about agriculture’s everyday impact. This year’s featured book, Full of Beans: Henry Ford Grows a Car, highlights the connection between farming and innovation. Now in its 21st year, the program has donated over 12,000 ag-related books to Wyoming elementary schools, including 734 copies this year. Contests linked to the book engage students through coloring, posters, and marketing ads. Local Farm Bureau members help distribute books and promote ag literacy in classrooms across the state.

Agricultural Imports 101

5/16/2025

Trade is a hot topic with a lot of uncertainty. Trade policy decisions made in Washington, D.C., will impact farmers and ranchers in the countryside. This Market Intel is part of a series exploring agricultural trade, including the potential impacts of trade policy changes and Agricultural Exports 101.

Barrasso, Capito Introduce Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act

5/15/2025

Bill will make it more affordable for farmers, ranchers and small businesses to purchase much-needed equipment, build their operations, and support their employees.

Spinning into Ag Education at State FFA Convention

5/2/2025

Nearly 800 students visited the Wyoming Farm Bureau booth at the 2025 State FFA Convention, spinning an “Ag Trivia” wheel to test their knowledge and learn about Wyoming agriculture. The interactive activity sparked conversations and rewarded participants with locally made treats like UW Meat Lab meat sticks and Wyoming honey candies.

Navigating working family relationships

5/2/2025

Zack Guild shares his experience of returning to his family’s cow/calf ranch in southwest Wyoming, where he works alongside multiple generations of relatives. He reflects on the deep but complex dynamics of family-run operations, noting that working together daily can bring both tension and closeness. Despite occasional conflicts, Zack emphasizes the strength of family bonds, shaped by early memories and shared labor. He credits his father’s open communication and future planning for maintaining unity and believes that prioritizing people over outcomes preserves meaningful ties. With faith as a guiding principle, he advocates for love, patience, and perspective in nurturing lasting relationships.