Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation members traveled to Cheyenne Feb. 19–20 for the annual WyFB Legislative Meeting, connecting farmers and ranchers with state leaders during the 2026 budget session.

The two-day event gave attendees the opportunity to hear policy updates, attend committee meetings, tour the Wyoming Capitol and visit directly with legislators and agency directors.

Sweetwater County Farm Bureau Federation Board Member Dixie Suddreth said stepping away from daily ranch work to engage in the legislative process was valuable.

“Normally we’re just out raising kids and cows,” she said. “To take a step back and look at the policies that shape American agriculture — and to see how it’s all run — that’s been a really fun day for us. Getting to watch the senators vote on the floor was quite interesting. It’s something we don’t always get to see.”

The meeting opened with a welcome from WyFB President Todd Fornstrom. WyFB Executive Vice President Kerin Clark provided an overview of the legislative priorities and a legislative update was presented byWyFB Policy Advocacy Directors Kelly Carpenter and Brett Moline. Members also heard from Wyoming Department of Agriculture Director Doug Miyamoto and Chris Brown, senior assistant attorney general in the State of Wyoming’s Water and Natural Resources Division.

The evening concluded with dinner, membership awards and an Ag Issues competition presentation by Cheyenne Central FFA.

On the second day, members observed committee meetings and observed legislative proceedings from the gallery.

The Office of State Lands and Investments, led by Director Stacia Berry, presented an informative session at the Capitol. OSLI staff from the grazing team, the field services team and the administrative team spoke about their roles. Following the group presentation, members could visit one-on-one with OSLI staff, before taking a guided tour highlighting the history and architecture of the Wyoming Capitol.

A legislative luncheon hosted by WyFB brought together legislators, elected officials and agency directors, creating space for one-on-one conversations about issues impacting agriculture. Following the luncheon, Agriculture Committee leadership — Chair Rep. Winter and Vice Chair Rep. Banks and Chair Sen. Ide— addressed current legislation affecting agriculture.

“The conversations about Farm Bureau, agriculture and the impact of legislation to Wyoming farmers and ranchers were so valuable during our members time at the State Capitol,” said Clark. “We were pleased with a great turnout at the luncheon. Those one-on-one conversations support the work WyFB is carrying out to implement member policy through the legislative process.”

As the budget session continues, Converse County rancher Frank Eathorne said direct involvement remains critical.

“It’s important for Farm Bureau members and farmers and ranchers to understand the legislative process because a lot of it affects us,” he said. He added that strong relationships with elected officials are essential, as some may not be familiar with agriculture policy.“We need to be comfortable talking with our representatives because we elected them. They’re representing us,” Eathorne said. “It’s important to have a good relationship so we can freely discuss the ideas and concepts being considered that could end up becoming law.”