Delegates from the Michigan Farm Bureau have elected Ben LaCross, a cherry grower from the northwest region, as their president. LaCross expressed his intention to highlight the role of Michigan's agriculture, emphasizing the state's optimal climate for producing a diverse array of crops including specialty crops, grain, sugarbeets, and dairy. He pointed out the challenges faced by farmers, such as trade issues and declining commodity prices, which pressure profitability on family farms.
LaCross shared his personal struggle with maintaining farm profitability amidst rising input costs, falling commodity prices, and regulatory pressures. He advocated for policy focus to support farmers in sustaining their operations. LaCross, who has served as a District Director for 13 years and held several leadership positions, including chair of the Young Farmer Committee and the AFBF's Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee, looks forward to fostering advocacy among future generations alongside his family.
Source: BROWNFIELD