Skagit County YF&R Attends Leadership Conference in Sacramento

In July, members of Skagit County’s Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) traveled to Sacramento, California to participate in the California YF&R Summer Leadership Conference hosted at the California Farm Bureau headquarters.

This annual event brings together young agricultural leaders from across the western United States to collaborate, build leadership skills, and explore innovations in agriculture.

Day One: Agricultural Innovation in Yolo County

The first day included a series of on-site farm tours in Yolo County, just north of Sacramento:

• Tomato Harvester Automation
  One farm showcased a self-propelled robotic tomato harvester that paid for itself in just 18 months. The technology reduced the crew from 45 workers to 3 and operates at three times the speed of the farm’s previous equipment — a powerful example of how automation is changing the labor and efficiency equation in specialty crop production.

• Sunflower Petals for Natural Dye
  Another stop featured a 52-acre sunflower field harvested specifically for petals, which are processed into yellow dye used in natural food coloring — including in popular products like Mountain Dew. This niche market highlighted creative crop diversification and value-added farming opportunities.

Touring a Tomato Growers Farm in Yolo County California

Day Two: Workshops & California Farm Bureau

The second day shifted to hands-on learning at the California Farm Bureau headquarters, where members participated in a series of workshops:

• YF&R Competitions & Opportunities
  Members learned more about the competitive programs offered by YF&R, including discussion meets, excellence in ag, and achievement awards — gaining clarity on how to get involved and why these events matter for leadership development.

• Technology in Agriculture
  Sessions on emerging ag technology explored ways young producers can utilize data tools, precision ag, and digital platforms to improve operations and decision-making.

• Team Building & Leadership Skills
  Group activities focused on communication, leadership styles, and collaboration — preparing members to lead effectively both on the farm and within their local organizations.

Outside California Farm Bureau Headquarters in Sacramento, California

Looking Ahead

Skagit County YF&R members left the conference energized and equipped with fresh ideas to bring back home. Events like this are a key part of our commitment to developing future leaders in agriculture — supporting not just farm success, but also community impact and industry innovation.

We’re proud to support the next generation through opportunities that build knowledge, connection, and confidence.