NAFB Convention Opens in Kansas City: Celebrating 81 Years of Trusted Farm Broadcasting
The National Association of Farm Broadcasting (NAFB) Convention officially opens tomorrow in Kansas City, marking one of the most anticipated gatherings for agricultural communicators across the country. Each year, farm broadcasters, allied industry partners, and ag media professionals come together to share insights, strengthen networks, and celebrate the role of farm broadcasting in rural America. As one attendee notes, “I and six to seven hundred other farm broadcasters, related allied industry ag communicators all gather for our 81st annual convention.”
Founded in 1944, NAFB has grown to become a cornerstone of agricultural communication, providing essential news and information to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. As this year’s convention begins, it offers an important reminder of the vital relationship between broadcasters and the audiences they serve. “Your farm broadcaster is a trusted voice that you invite into your home, office, or even vehicles every day, providing news that you need in rural America.” That sense of trust remains a defining strength of the profession.
Farm broadcasting continues to evolve alongside technology and changing listener habits. The digital transformation has reshaped how rural audiences receive and share information. As the speaker reflects, “Farm broadcasting has changed since the association formed in 1944. The digital age now, farmers and ranchers can get information on their phone, podcast, even on your wrist, but still, it’s that trusted voice you depend on.”
That trusted voice is what makes NAFB so influential today—and why the convention draws such a large and passionate crowd. The event provides opportunities for professional development, interviews with key agricultural leaders, access to industry partners, and discussions about the future of agricultural communication. It also celebrates the long-term dedication of those who help keep America’s farmers informed. As one proud former leader shares, “I’m proud to have served as NAFB National President in 2013.”
As agriculture faces new challenges—market volatility, policy changes, weather extremes, and rapid technological advances—the role of reliable, knowledgeable farm broadcasters remains as important as ever. Whether on the radio, online, or through digital platforms, the NAFB Convention continues to highlight the power of connection and the enduring value of trusted voices in rural America.
Audio Reporting by Mark Oppold for Southeast AgNet.