Jay Slater has been named winner of the 2022 Young Farmers & Ranchers Discussion Meet hosted by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. 

The Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting in which active discussion and participation are expected. Participants are evaluated on their ability to exchange ideas and information on a predetermined topic, usually centered around policy or issues affecting agriculture.

Slater won a 4-Wheeler courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company and $1,000 in cash prizes. He also had the opportunity to represent Mississippi and compete at the American Farm Bureau Federation conference this month in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

“The Young Farmer and Rancher Discussion Meet is an excellent opportunity to work together to come up with solutions to the problems we all face,” said Slater, “I’m honored to be chosen to represent our fellow young farmers and ranchers to bring attention to the issues where we need the most help.”

Slater said being involved with Farm Bureau has made connections for him all over the state and nation.

“I’ve had so many meaningful conversations with other contestants and Farm Bureau members about current issues, policy, and programming that affect all of us involved in agriculture,” Slater said. 

The Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation is a nonprofit, private advocacy organization of almost 180,000 families throughout the state working to improve farm and rural life.

Slater is a fourth-generation beef cattle producer and timber farmer. He lives in Alcorn County with his wife, Madilyn, and works as collateral evaluator for Mississippi Land Bank.

Mississippi Land Bank Chief Executive Officer, Bart Harris, said Slater is an excellent employee and strong advocate for the Mississippi agriculture industry. 

“There’s no better example of determination and a strong work ethic than Jay Slater,” said Harris. “We are proud of all Jay has accomplished and for representing us so well on the national stage.”