Iowa Farm Bureau members Peter and Lydia Whitman of Clinton were appointed to serve a two-year term on the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Committee.  The Whitmans were nominated by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), appointed by AFBF President Bob Stallman, and confirmed by the AFBF Board of Directors. 

The purpose of the 16-member YF&R Committee is to provide young farmers and ranchers the opportunity to recommend programs and activities that will encourage participation of young farmers and ranchers in Farm Bureau and YF&R programs.  Along with the YF&R Committee, the Whitmans will plan the young farmer competitive events at the AFBF Annual Convention, identify programs and potential speakers for the AFBF YF&R Leadership Conference, and provide insight and recommendations during numerous committee meetings held during the year.

Peter and Lydia Whitman have each been finalists in the IFBF Young Farmers Discussion Meet, and have served in leadership positions within the Clinton County Farm Bureau.  The Whitmans have a deep commitment to growing the grassroots of the Iowa Farm Bureau, specifically initiating programs and events to attract young farmers to the Clinton County Farm Bureau. 

“The hands-on style of leadership and volunteerism demonstrated by the Whitmans show the commitment and passion they have for agriculture today,” said IFBF President Craig Hill.  “As our young farmer programs continue to grow and excel, the Whitmans embody the positive characteristics of a young farm family, and will serve as excellent representatives of Iowa agriculture.” 

“I am thoroughly impressed by the quality of your application and the dedication you have shown to Farm Bureau and your community,” AFBF President Bob Stallman wrote in the Whitmans’ appointment letter.  “You are among the nation’s best young farmers and ranchers.”