Cohosts Jay Matteson and Ron Robbins welcome David Fisher, the President of the New York Farm Bureau, to discuss the vital role of grassroots advocacy in agriculture. Fisher emphasizes the importance of member engagement in shaping policies that impact rural communities and the agriculture industry, highlighting the need for farmers to be proactive in voicing their concerns. The conversation delves into the challenges facing the farming community, including labor shortages and rising costs, while also exploring the opportunities presented by new technologies and innovations. Fisher shares insights on the evolving political landscape in New York and how it affects agricultural interests, underscoring the necessity for farmers to adapt and innovate. The episode concludes on an optimistic note, with a focus on the increasing interest among young people in agriculture and sustainable practices. The podcast brings listeners into a thoughtful conversation between Jay Matteson, Ron Robbins, and David Fisher, the President of the New York Farm Bureau. Their discussion traverses the various dimensions of rural life, focusing particularly on the challenges and opportunities that farmers encounter in today's landscape. The episode begins with a humorous exchange about the weather, contrasting the warmth of Florida, where Robbins is currently based, with the harsher winter conditions in New York. This light-hearted start sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the agricultural issues facing the region. Fisher shares his personal journey in dairy farming, providing a glimpse into his family's legacy at Maple View Dairy, where they manage thousands of cows and extensive farmland. His narrative is not just about farming but about the evolution of agricultural practices and the pressing need for advocacy within the industry. The conversation quickly shifts to the current political climate in New York, where Fisher notes the significant changes that have led to a lack of representation for agricultural interests. He emphasizes the importance of grassroots involvement and how the Farm Bureau works to ensure that farmers' voices are heard, especially in a political landscape that often overlooks rural concerns. The discussion also highlights the innovative spirit within the agricultural community, showcasing how younger generations are embracing technology and new methods to enhance productivity and sustainability. Fisher's insights into the potential of drones and virtual fencing illustrate the exciting developments that can help modernize farming practices. As the episode draws to a close, there is a strong call to action for listeners to join the Farm Bureau, reinforcing the idea that participation is essential for shaping policies that affect rural America. This engaging conversation not only sheds light on the challenges facing farmers but also inspires hope for the future of agriculture, underscoring the vital role that community and collaboration play in overcoming obstacles. Takeaways: The importance of grassroots membership in the New York Farm Bureau cannot be overstated, as it strengthens advocacy for rural communities. David Fisher emphasizes that the Farm Bureau's policies come directly from local farmers' ideas and concerns. Technological advancements in agriculture, such as drones, are crucial for improving efficiency and productivity on farms. Labor shortages pose a significant challenge for agriculture, particularly with rising costs and limited guest worker programs. The political landscape in New York has shifted, impacting how agricultural issues are addressed in Albany. Youth engagement in agriculture is vital, with increasing interest in understanding food systems and sustainable practices. Links referenced in this episode: nyfb.org www.agricultureevents.com jcida.com Companies mentioned in this episode: New York Farm Bureau Agrimart Co op Great Lakes Cheese Fair Life Maple View Dairy…