Wayne County Ag Success Team to host Farmer Listening Lunch Jan. 15

The Wayne County Ag Success Team will host a Farmer Listening Lunch Thursday, Jan. 15 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at RES Auction Services, 375 Fry Road, Wooster. The goal is for AST members to hear thoughts and concerns directly from Wayne County farmers. Lunch will be provided for participants. Doors will open at 11 a.m. for social time and lunch, with discussion beginning at noon.

The AST is a network of farmers, farm support businesses, nonprofit organizations, elected officials and government agencies committed to supporting and preserving Wayne County farms. The group has been meeting since the early 2000s, but January’s meeting will be the first farmer-focused listening session of its kind.

During the session elected officials, government agencies and representatives from various organizations will be on-site to share information and hear directly from farmers.

“We are at a crossroads for our generational future," AST member, advocate and farmer Roger Baker said. "Many decisions will need to be made to keep the balance of what makes this county attractive and farming strong and successful. Our county elected officials have had a history of supporting our vibrant ag industry and want to learn more about what is happening and the challenges behind our farm gates. This listening session is needed. Bring your concerns, ideas and potential solutions. Consider it a think tank for our future of agriculture in this county.”

Wayne County farmers of all types are encouraged to attend. To register, visit tinyurl.com/ast2026. The registration form and survey will be used to plan lunch attendance and to gather feedback on topics to cover at the meeting. Paper copies are available at the Farm Bureau, 2030 Portage Road, and Wayne Soil and Water at the County Administration Building, 428 W. Liberty St. Register by Dec. 31.

For more information email wcagsuccess@gmail.com or call Lindsay Tournoux at the Wayne County Farm Bureau at 330-263-7456.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.