2017 S.D. Farmers Union Convention

HURON — South Dakota Farmers Union 2017 State Convention brought many family farmers and ranchers to Huron to develop policy, discuss rural health care and many other issues impacting those who help feed and fuel our state, nation and world.
“This is a grassroots organization who has been serving South Dakota’s family farmers, ranchers and their communities for more than a century. Perhaps policy development is the most important item accomplished here,” says Doug Sombke, S.D. Farmers Union President.
Sombke adds that the annual state convention provides a great opportunity to bring in experts to discuss topics impacting South Dakota’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities.
During the two-day convention, industry leaders discussed everything from rural health care, innovative agri-marketing ideas and the future of ethanol in South Dakota to faith’s role in farming and inventory grain management.

The opportunity to glean knowledge was Orient farmer Becky Martinmaas’ motivation to leave her farm and taxidermy business for a couple days.
“I am always hoping to learn something new,” says Martinmaas, who attended the convention with her husband, Ray.
“You cannot make changes unless you make yourself heard,” Martinmaas added.

Photo:

Orient farmers, Ray and Becky Martinmaas, join with family farmers and ranchers from across South Dakota in Huron for the 2017 South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention held in Huron Nov. 30 and Dec. 1.

Photo courtesy of SDFU