FRENCH LICK, Ind.  – The annual Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) convention – renamed the Indiana Ag Gathering – is Dec. 12-13 at the French Lick Springs Resort. The organization has hosted a yearly convention since 1919.

The main purpose of the event is to celebrate Indiana agriculture, while connecting and engaging with members of the Hoosier agricultural community, INFB said.

“All are welcome at the Indiana Ag Gathering – whether you are an INFB member, an ag industry partner or a Hoosier with a passion for agriculture,” Randy Kron, INFB president, told Farm World. “We are excited to bring everyone together for new programming, including educational breakout sessions, workshops and thought-provoking speakers, as well as more space for connection and networking. We hope attendees leave the Indiana Ag Gathering with a new idea or connection and enjoy quality time together.”

About 900 people have attended the convention in the past, INFB said. The organization has more than 276,000 members. The event will build on more than 100 years of tradition while creating more space for connection and collaboration, celebrating the people who power Indiana agriculture, INFB said.

During the convention, an INFB vice president will be elected. Those interested in running may register at least 30 days prior to the annual meeting; candidates may also be nominated from the floor.

Damon West, a bestselling author, philanthropist and college professor, will serve as keynote speaker on the 13th. A feature-length documentary – A World Without Cows – will be screened on the 12th.

Breakout sessions on such topics as the ag economy, diversifying Indiana’s energy landscape and Ag in the Classroom, are planned.

The state finals of the INFB Young Farmers & Ag Professionals Discussion Meet competition will be at 11 a.m. on the 13th. The Discussion Meet is an annual competition designed to help INFB members aged 35 or younger learn how to effectively share and build upon ideas that foster understanding and collaboration to address important agricultural issues, according to INFB. The competition simulates a committee meeting where each participant is expected to be actively involved in the discussion. Contestants discuss common dilemmas and potential problems facing farmers in America, the organization said.

Contestants may register for the Discussion Meet until Dec. 4.

The Indiana Ag Gathering Market, which features over 40 Indiana Grown vendors, will be open to attendees and the public on the 12th from 1:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and the 13th from 8 a.m. until noon.

All convention events are free except the Closing Lunch & Awards and a speech by Jean Becker, former chief of staff for President George H.W. Bush. The awards lunch on the 13th is $50 per person; registration is required. To hear Becker’s presentation during the Hoosier Breakfast on the 13th, tickets of various donation levels are required. Registration is also required.

The convention begins at 9 a.m. on the 12th and ends at 2 p.m. on the 13th. For more information and to register, visit www.infarmbureau.org/events/AgGathering.