The American Farm Bureau Virtual Convention has wrapped up, but our work for 2021 is only beginning. While we are apart for now, we remain stronger together.

As we move further into 2021, I believe it’s a good time for leaders to begin thinking about opportunities that could potentially come up this year.

Construction of Shaff Implement’s new building is anticipated to be completed in about a month.

Indiana Farm Bureau was presented with a New Horizon Award in the best new program category by the American Farm Bureau Federation at the AFBF Convention, which was held virtually.

Indiana Farm Bureau President Randy Kron was reelected to the American Farm Bureau Federation board of directors at the 2021 AFBF Virtual Convention. Kron will represent the Midwest on the board for the next two years.

Indiana Farm Bureau welcomed two new district leaders into state leadership roles — a new district director who joins the INFB board of directors and a new district education and outreach coordinator who joins the INFB Women’s Leadership Committee.

The Greater Peoria Farm Show, scheduled for March 9-11, is canceled due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions in Illinois.

A conservation learning circle for women in agriculture was held at the National No-Tillage Conference. Panelists discussed the importance of women being involved in conservation and soil health practices.

Choosing seeding and fertilizer rates for variable-rate applications can be challenging, but the potential cost savings and improved yields make it worthwhile, said farmer Mark Chapman.