7 Shocking Ways The Florida Farm Bureau Is Changing Agriculture In 2025-2026

The Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF) is not just an advocacy group; it is the powerhouse driving the state's multi-billion dollar agriculture industry, and as of December 2025, its agenda for the upcoming legislative sessions and beyond is more aggressive and member-focused than ever before. With Florida's farmers and ranchers facing unprecedented challenges from rising costs to regulatory pressures, the FFBF has mobilized its grassroots policy process to champion a suite of critical initiatives designed to boost profitability, ensure sustainability, and secure the next generation of agricultural leaders. This deep dive reveals the organization's most current and impactful strategic priorities for 2025 and 2026.

The FFBF’s core mission remains centered on advocacy, membership value, public awareness, and the overall profitability of agriculture, a mission solidified by its member-ratified policy. The organization is currently preparing for its 84th State Annual Meeting, scheduled for October 27-29, 2025, in Daytona Beach, where these critical policies and future leadership will be discussed. From securing affordable healthcare to fighting for regulatory clarity, the Florida Farm Bureau is actively shaping the state's economic and environmental landscape.

The Florida Farm Bureau's 2025-2026 Strategic Blueprint

The Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF) operates on a powerful and dynamic grassroots policy process, which ensures its legislative priorities directly reflect the needs of its members—Florida's farmers and ranchers. The organization's strategic blueprint for 2025 and 2026 is focused on seven key areas that will define the future of Florida agriculture.

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1. Launching the Revolutionary Health Benefit Plan (HBP)

One of the most significant and immediate initiatives for the FFBF in the 2025 Legislative Session is the push for a cost-effective Health Benefit Plan (HBP), championed through legislation like SB 480 and HB 497. This objective is to provide affordable and flexible healthcare coverage options for its members, addressing a long-standing challenge for self-employed farmers and small agricultural businesses. The launch of this initiative is a direct response to the need for accessible healthcare within reach for the agricultural community, recognizing that the health of its members is paramount to the industry's stability.

2. The Ongoing Battle for the 'Right to Farm' Legislation

The "Right to Farm" Bill has historically been a top priority for the Florida Farm Bureau, and the organization continues to advocate for policies that safeguard farmers and ranchers from nuisance lawsuits, particularly as urban sprawl encroaches on agricultural lands. This policy is fundamental to protecting the opportunity for individual initiative in farming and ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural operations across the state. The FFBF consistently recognizes state legislators who champion this and other key agricultural priorities, highlighting its importance in the legislative landscape.

3. Cultivating the Next Generation of Agricultural Leaders

The FFBF is heavily invested in leadership development, recognizing that the most important "commodity" produced in Florida is its future leaders. Programs are actively in place to develop the skills and policy understanding of young farmers and ranchers. Individuals like John Hoblick, Brant Schirard, Adam Basford, and Staci Sims are often highlighted as examples of the strong leaders the organization aims to cultivate. This focus is explicitly mentioned in the 2024-2025 Annual Report as a core strategic goal.

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4. Championing the 2026 Florida Farmer of the Year Award

The organization continues its tradition of recognizing outstanding agriculturists by announcing the top three finalists for the 2026 Florida Farmer of the Year award. This high-profile award not only celebrates the achievements of individual farmers but also serves to raise public awareness about the innovation and dedication present in Florida's commodity production. The announcement of the finalists is a key event, often coinciding with the State Annual Meeting.

5. Advocating for UF/IFAS Funding and Research Support

A critical component of the FFBF’s policy platform is the unwavering support for the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). The bureau's leadership consistently works during legislative sessions to ensure that UF/IFAS receives the necessary funding and support to conduct vital research. This research is essential for providing farmers with the tools and knowledge to combat new pests, adapt to climate challenges, and improve crop profitability.

6. Shaping Regulatory Policy on Poultry and Eggs

The FFBF is actively engaged with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regarding the updating of administrative rules related to Limited Poultry and Egg production. This involvement is part of the organization's commitment to ensuring that new regulations are practical, fair, and supportive of small-scale farming operations, maintaining a balance between consumer safety and the profitability of agriculture.

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7. Driving National Influence at the American Farm Bureau Convention

Beyond state-level advocacy, the Florida Farm Bureau is focused on national policy. In December 2025, a delegation of Florida members will attend the 107th American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim, California. This attendance is crucial for ensuring that Florida's unique agricultural concerns—from citrus greening to water policy—are represented and integrated into the national policy book, guaranteeing that the state's farmers have a strong voice on the national stage.

Key Dates and Events for Florida Farm Bureau Members

The Florida Farm Bureau’s calendar is packed with events that serve as the engine for its grassroots policy and leadership development. These meetings are where the strategic priorities are debated, ratified, and implemented.

• December 2025: Florida Delegation attends the 107th American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim, California.
• October 27-29, 2025: The 84th State Annual Meeting is held at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, where grassroots members gather to set the organization's official policy agenda.
• October 28-30, 2026: Members are already looking forward to the 85th State Annual Meeting, a testament to the organization's forward-planning and consistent focus on future policy.

These annual gatherings are the culmination of the year-long grassroots policy process, where county-level resolutions are refined into statewide and national policy positions. The FFBF’s dedication to this bottom-up approach is what gives its advocacy efforts their immense political weight and topical authority.

Membership and Benefits: More Than Just Insurance

While many associate the Farm Bureau with its affiliated insurance services (Florida Farm Family), the organization's true value lies in its comprehensive member benefits and services, which are expanding in 2025. The new Health Benefit Plan is the most notable addition, but the FFBF also focuses on providing benefits that enhance the profitability of agriculture. These benefits often include exclusive discounts on farm equipment, vehicles, and business services, all designed to reduce operating costs for the state's diverse commodity producers, including citrus growers, cattle ranchers, vegetable farmers, and nursery operators. The organization's goal is to continue advocating for policies that support farmers and ranchers while expanding these tangible member benefits.

In summary, the Florida Farm Bureau Federation is executing a powerful and multi-faceted strategy for 2025-2026. By focusing on legislative priorities like the Health Benefit Plan, defending the Right to Farm, and investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders, the FFBF is ensuring that Florida agriculture remains a profitable, sustainable, and respected industry for decades to come. Their commitment to a grassroots policy process guarantees that their efforts are always aligned with the real-world needs of the people who feed the state and the nation.