Thoughts from the Tractor Seat: Why You Should Join Your County Farm Bureau — Farmer or Not
By Ken Polehn
The Dalles, Ore., Sept. 22, 2025 — Not long ago, we talked about how fragile America’s food system has become. Farmers and ranchers face growing challenges — from water regulations and rising input costs to corporate consolidation and uncertain markets. Yet one thing hasn’t changed: when farmers and rural communities stand together, we are stronger.
That’s what the Farm Bureau is all about.
It’s not a government agency. It’s a grassroots organization made up of farmers, ranchers, small business owners, teachers, and everyday people who care about where their food comes from. The Farm Bureau has always been the voice of agriculture, but it’s also the bridge between rural and urban neighbors.
If you farm, the Farm Bureau gives you a seat at the table where policy is shaped — policy that affects your water, land, and ability to keep producing food. If you don’t farm, you’re still part of the story. After all, every one of us eats, and every one of us has a stake in agriculture.
Membership is simple.
Voting Member: Must generate at least $2,500 in gross income from farming or ranching activities. Voting members can participate in grassroots work at the county level, vote on policy, and serve in leadership roles.
Supporting Member: For anyone who wants to back Oregon agriculture, stay informed, and enjoy member benefits — even if you’re not a farmer.
How to Join
Go to oregonfb.org/membership
Choose “Join or Renew” and select Wasco County — or your own county — Farm Bureau.
Pick your membership type: Voting Member (farmers & ranchers with at least $2,500 gross farm income) or Supporting Member (anyone who cares about food & farming).
Fill out the quick form and submit your payment online.
Prefer to join by phone? 📞 Call the Oregon Farm Bureau at 503-399-1701 and tell them you want to join Wasco County Farm Bureau.
Here’s the bottom line: if we want to keep strong family farms, healthy rural communities, and a secure food supply, we need to speak with one voice. The Farm Bureau gives us that voice.
Farmer or not, your membership matters.
Because if you eat, you’re part of agriculture.
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