Anyone from PA on here?

[stifflej]

If so, are you members of the PA Farm Bureau? Can you tell me the pros and cons of becoming a member...I am just a hobby farmer, only raise a few head of beef cattle and some pigs and chickens, does it benefit me, or hinder me to join, or neither?

Thanks.

[Home Harvest]

Yes to question 1. No to question 2. Sorry, we raise mostly for ourselves, family, and friends. I don't even get the sales tax exemption.

Good Luck,
Russ

[beaglady]

It might be more worthwhile to join PASA - the PA Assn. for Sustainable Agriculture. They have an excellent conference, and on-farm field days throughout the state on areas of interest to small farmers.

www.pasafarming.org

[Peace n Quiet]

I live in Pa. I am also a Farm Bureau member.
We raise a few beefers, half a dozen pigs, and less than a hundred chickens each year. Hobby farmers all the way...

That said, I found that it is to my benefit to be a farm bureau member. I am the type of person who becomes very involved though. I don't mind voicing my opinion when issues are being considered for policy, or seeking help from the organization for a neighbor who is down on their luck. In both cases, our county farm bureau listened and acted on my suggestions.

Beyond that, I have had the pleasure of meeting many like-minded people who are great resources when I am just learning how to do things on my land. Last week, I enjoyed homemade pie and ice cream with new friends that I would otherwise have probably never met!

I hope you consider joining and have the same great experience that I have enjoyed.