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AFBF Convention Will be Held in January 2026

Jul 03, 2025
By Farms.com

2026 AFBF Event to Promote Growth Leadership and Innovation

Farmers, ranchers, and ag leaders are invited to the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention, January 9–14, in Anaheim, California. This year’s theme, “Imagine. Grow. Lead.” sets the tone for an event filled with celebration and forward-thinking.

The convention kicks off with recognition of County Farm Bureaus and their outstanding programs through the County Activities of Excellence awards.

Meanwhile, the Ag Innovation Challenge will reward one innovative startup with $100,000 in prize money. The popular Farm Dog of the Year contest also returns, with entries closing July 11.

Participants can attend workshops tailored to public policy, rural development, member engagement, and consumer engagement. These sessions are designed to help strengthen leadership skills and share ideas across the agriculture sector.

The highlight of the closing session will be keynote speaker Tim Tebow, who is known not only for his athletic achievements but also his dedication to humanitarian work. “Farmers and ranchers share that spirit of teamwork and commitment to community,” the event notes.

New this year, the Empowering Young Leaders Reception on January 11 invites attendees aged 35 and under to connect, learn, and celebrate youth in agriculture with food and fun.

Key youth-focused competitions include the Achievement Award, Excellence in Agriculture Award, and Discussion Meet. These events support the next generation of Farm Bureau leaders.

The AFBF Convention continues to be a central space for farmers to share innovations, explore leadership, and unite in shaping the future of agriculture. Mark your calendar and be part of the change.


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The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. Emerson Nafziger from the University of Illinois breaks down decades of nitrogen research. From the evolution of N rate guidelines to how soil health and hybrid genetics influence nitrogen use efficiency, this conversation unpacks the science behind smarter fertilization. Improving how we set nitrogen fertilizer rates for rainfed corn is a key focus. Discover why the MRTN model matters more than ever, and how shifting mindsets and better data can boost yields and environmental outcomes. Tune in now on all major platforms!

"The nitrogen that comes from soil mineralization is the first nitrogen the plant sees, and its role is underestimated."

Meet the guest:

Dr. Emerson Nafziger is Professor Emeritus of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, with degrees in agronomy from Ohio State, Purdue, and Illinois. His research has focused on nitrogen rate strategies and crop productivity. He co-developed the Maximum Return to Nitrogen (MRTN) model, which is widely used across the Midwest. His research spans N response trials, hybrid interactions, crop rotation effects, and yield stability.