By: Bill Powers, DEFB President
One of the greatest strengths of Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) is that our policy process begins with our members. Every policy position that we advocate for, whether locally or nationally, starts with our members sharing their experiences and concerns at the grassroots level.
Delegates serve as the voice of their county Farm Bureaus. They develop and review policy recommendations, discuss challenges facing agriculture, and vote on issues that help direct DEFB. To be a delegate you do not need to be an expert in policy, just an engaged member willing to learn and represent your peers. DEFB provides delegates with information on Robert’s Rules of Order for meeting procedures and attempts to make the entire process as easy as possible, so members feel comfortable engaging in conversation.
Whether it’s advocating for farmland preservation, addressing regulatory challenges, supporting young and beginning farmers, or protecting private property rights, the policies adopted through our delegate process guide the organization.
Agriculture in Delaware is diverse, and our delegate body should reflect that diversity. We need voices from all aspects of Delaware agriculture, whether that’s crop farmers, poultry growers, urban farmers, young farmers, longtime agriculturalists, livestock producers, or so much more. We need you to make sure that we represent all agriculture across the state.
Serving as a delegate is so much more than just attending an annual meeting. It’s an opportunity to help ensure that future generations inherit a strong agricultural industry and a Farm Bureau that continues to reflect the needs of its members.
I encourage every member to consider how they can play a role in shaping the future of our organization and Delaware agriculture. If you want your voice heard on the issues affecting agriculture, serving as a delegate is one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference. Our grassroots process works because members step forward, participate, and lead.
If you are a regular or professionally engaged member that is interested in representing your county as a delegate at the Delaware Farm Bureau Annual Meeting on December 11th, 2026, contact your county president or the DEFB state office at 302-697-3183.
Kent – Jim Minner, jamesminner@comcast.net
New Castle – Stewart Ramsey, stewart@ramseysfarm.com
Sussex – Steve Breeding, spbreeding@gmail.com
