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Contact your local Farm Bureau agent, and together, we’ll make your future self proud.
By Zippy Duvall
Fresh from the farm. American grown. Those words bring to mind quality and value, thanks to the hardworking men and women across this country who are proud to be called farmers.
Nearly everything we need for our daily lives and wellbeing begins on the farm, and at Farm Bureau, that’s where our policy rightly begins too.
This will soon be on full display when thousands of farmers and ranchers gather in Anaheim, California, for the 107th American Farm Bureau Convention this week. This event is the climax of months of hard work and grassroots policy development across our federation But it’s just the beginning of a new year of work at the American Farm Bureau, with the agenda set by our grassroots leaders.
Duvall cont. on page 13
Larry Reagan
As we begin a new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we accomplished together in the year behind us. This past year brought both challenges and opportunities, and through it all, the dedication, resilience, and commitment of our members, staff, and supporters made a meaningful difference for the voice of agriculture
Reagan cont on page 14
By Benjamin Segovia
On behalf of the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau (NMFLB), I am pleased to extend our warmest wishes for a Happy New Year to each of you and your families. As we step into 2026, we celebrate not only the promise of new beginnings but also the enduring strength and unity of our agricultural community across New Mexico.
Segovia cont. on page 14
The New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau's Farm Family of the Year award is one of the organization’s most cherished honors. Established in 1965, this award recognizes families whose dedication, leadership, and deep-rooted commitment to agriculture have shaped their communities and strengthened the voice of the NMF&LB organization throughout the state of New Mexico.
At its heart, NMF&LB is about agricultural families, those who steward the land, uphold time-honored traditions, and work every day to preserve New Mexico’s agricultural legacy. The Farm Family of the Year Award celebrates families who embody these values, and work diligently to carry them forward for future generations to uphold.
This year’s honorees exemplify that mission in every way. Craig and Teresa Ogden have dedicated their lives to service, leadership, and community involvement. In addition to Craig’s distinguished tenure as President of the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, the couple has remained deeply engaged in local boards, institutions, and their church, serving with humility, grace, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
Never seeking recognition, Craig and Teresa lead quietly and consistently by example. Their leadership is rooted not in accolades, but in service guided by a genuine desire to see good things happen for those around them. That philosophy has created a lasting impact that reaches far beyond their own farm and family.Through their work with local water cooperatives, advisory committees, agricultural organizations, and Farm Bureau programs at the county, state, and national levels, the Ogdens have worked tirelessly to advance the mission of NMF&LB and support the future of agriculture in New Mexico.
Those who know Craig and Teresa describe them as welcoming, dependable, and endlessly encouraging, the kind of people who lift up everyone they encounter. Their contributions have strengthened not only their local community, but the entire New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau family.
The New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau is honored to recognize Craig and Teresa Ogden as the 2025 Farm Family of the Year, celebrating a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to agriculture that will inspire generations to come.
Honoring exceptional dedication and lifelong commitment to New Mexico agriculture, MaryEsther Fernandez Grider was selected as the 2025 Volunteer of the Year.
The Volunteer of the Year Award is presented annually to an individual whose service advances NMF&LB’s mission and strengthens agriculture across the state. For Mary-Esther, that mission is deeply personal. Raised in a Mesilla Valley farming family, she continues the legacy of her father and grandfather through tireless advocacy, education, and community service.
Since retiring from teaching, Mary-Esther has devoted herself wholeheartedly to volunteer work throughout New Mexico. A passionate supporter of New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom, she regularly assists with educational events, outreach efforts, and conferences driven by her belief that agricultural literacy is essential for future generations.
In Southern New Mexico, Mary-Esther has been instrumental in AgXplorer education events since their inception and frequently shares her expertise in soil and water conservation with students. Her commitment to youth development also includes active involvement with Doña Ana County 4-H, while her dedication to preserving agricultural
history is reflected in more than 30 years of service at the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. During legislative sessions, Mary-Esther can also be found at the Roundhouse, advocating for agriculture and ensuring that the voices and concerns of the agricultural community remain visible to state leaders.
An educator, farmer, rancher, and steadfast advocate, Mary-Esther lives by a guiding belief: “You cannot have an ag-less day.” NMF&LB is honored to recognize her outstanding service and unwavering commitment by naming her the 2025 Volunteer of the Year.
Evelyn Ledbetter was raised on a farm in Floyd, New Mexico, Evelyn learned the values of hard work, service, and agriculture at an early age. She graduated from Eastern New Mexico University in 1989 with a degree in accounting and, alongside her husband, continued her agricultural roots by owning and operating a chile farm in Roosevelt County while raising their two children. Ledbetter cont. on page 15
YouTube Videos of Mary-Esther Fernandez Grider and Evelyn Ledbetter - Click here https://www youtube com/@1917NMFLB
Christine Kane
New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom (NMAITC) recognized Christine Kane of Dixon Elementary School as the 2025 NMAITC Teacher of the Year. The annual award honors a K–12 educator who is not an agriculture teacher by trade but who meaningfully integrates agricultural literacy across the curriculum.
Kane serves the rural community of Dixon in northeast Rio Arriba County, where she teaches K–6 special education, works as the school’s speechlanguage pathologist, and drives the school bus. With 26 years in education, 12 of them at Dixon Elementary, she exemplifies the dedication and versatility of rural educators.
NMAITC began partnering with Kane two years ago after she received a New Mexico Grow Grant through the Natural Resources Conservation Service With a raised bed and hydroponic system, her students began growing food year-round. A follow-up composting grant expanded the project and deepened students’ understanding of sustainability.
A simple student idea “Let’s make the front of our school look better” evolved into a hands-on, interdisciplinary agricultural project. Under Kane’s leadership, students formed committees, conducted surveys, and integrated agriculture across subjects:
• ELA: Writing letters requesting donations
• Math: Calculating perimeter, area, and volume for garden beds
The community rallied with donations of tools, soil, and supplies. Students of all ages contributed, older students designed and built budgets, younger students counted rocks, and everyone helped construct the garden Kane later launched a summer garden club, where students watered, weeded, measured, and planned how to use their harvests.
Kane continued on page 12
American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall highlights the urgent need for legislation expanding the bridge support program for farmers, reinforced by new analysis indicating the economic crisis in farm country is likely to continue this year.
“We are grateful for the aid Congress has delivered to farmers this year and do not take that for granted. But we are in an economic crisis, the likes of which we haven’t seen in decades. New Farm Bureau analysis reveals farmers are likely to face another very difficult year if markets do not improve The sad reality is the climbing rate of farm bankruptcies and further consolidation of farms is only going to accelerate if Congress fails to act.
AFBF Corner continued on page 12
2025 - Albuquerque, NM
Sessions
Workshops
NMF&B Programs
Resolution Discussion
Business Meeting
Fellowship & Fun
When community members began asking to buy vegetables, students created a Summer Garden Farm Stand, selling basil, spinach, and watermelon drinks while gaining real-world experience in entrepreneurship. Today, the garden is a yearround learning hub: students make herb-infused sea salt, prepare fresh produce for snacks, and contribute ingredients for school events, including the sauce for Dixon Elementary’s first-ever spaghetti dinner and salsa for Taco Tuesdays.
Reflecting on her teaching philosophy, Kane shared: “I believe that when given the right experiences, all kids want to learn. When learning engages both their bodies and minds, that’s when the real magic happens. Agriculture connects to every subject and helps my students become better citizens and community members.”
AFBF Corner ... continued from Page 8
“Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle have assured us in recent weeks that they recognize more aid is needed to keep our food supply strong, which requires a strong agricultural sector. Many have also voiced strong support for approving yearround E15 fuel, which would be a win-win for consumers and farmers by reducing the price of fuel at the pump while increasing demand for both corn and sorghum.
“The target for months has been to include both priorities in the government funding package. So, it was a shock to see bill text proposed by the House that includes neither. There is still time. Congress must act. Failing to do so would not only fail farmers, who don’t control the prices they’re paid or the skyrocketing cost of supplies, it would fail every family in America who relies on farmers to provide safe and healthy food to stock their pantries.
“We know much work is yet to be done for a legislative package to reach the finish line. The importance of including a lifeline for farmers, which translates to food security for families across America, cannot be overstated.”
Zippy
Bureau, begins on the farm. I am proud to be a farmer and to serve an organization that has been and continues to be built, led and driven by farmers and ranchers.
While this year marks the 107th year of the American Farm Bureau Federation, there are county and state Farm Bureaus older than the national federation. And that’s just as it should be. Farm Bureau didn’t start at the national level. It began with a county. Back in 1911, farmers in Broome County, New York, came together to address the challenges of their time. Soon more county and state Farm Bureaus cropped up across the country, and then in 1919, farmer leaders met together to form the American Farm Bureau They believed they could be stronger together, and that value has stood the test of time. And, while farming and Farm Bureau have grown and adapted over the years, our values and our fundamental structure have not changed. Everything we do begins on the farm.
Every Farm Bureau Leader Starts on the Farm Farm Bureau leadership also comes from the grassroots up. As the American Farm Bureau president, I am a farmer first. When I come to Washington to meet with leaders and lawmakers, I come straight from my family farm, and I go right back to the farm where I face the same challenges as the farmers I represent. Whether I’m out in the pasture caring for my cows or driving a tractor to bring in hay, my job as a Farm Bureau leader starts on the farm The same is true for our leaders across our federation These dedicated men and women are farmers and ranchers, who have taken on a second job in their roles as county and state leaders and national board members. We do it because we love farming, and we believe in the mission of this great organization.
Every Farm Bureau Policy Starts on the Farm
In the months and weeks leading up to our national gathering, I have had the privilege of traveling the country to meet with our members as they set policy to direct our work in Washington. I’ve taken part in that process firsthand, too, from the county and state level over the years. Grassroots advocacy is what got me involved in Farm Bureau as a young farmer, as I looked to make a difference for my family and my community. Farm Bureau policy is grown at the local level. Our members gather with their neighbors and talk through the issues facing their farms and ranches. Together, they work out solutions and make policy recommendations. Those policy resolutions are then sent on for state level consideration by farmer and rancher delegates to guide state advocacy. Finally, our grassroots members send policy recommendations that have broader relevance on to the American Farm Bureau This all comes together at the national level when farmer delegates from across the country review our policy book and discuss changes needed to strengthen farms, ranches and rural communities across the country
Every step of this process, every decision, is led and driven by real farmers and ranchers. These decisions are made by men and women who come from all corners of agriculture. They raise a wide variety of commodities and run farms of all sizes. Farm Bureau is the largest general farm organization because farmers know the power of our united, grassroots voice. A vast majority (97%) of our farmer delegates come from family farms, and nearly two-thirds represent small- to mid-size farms as defined by USDA. Our members understand the outsized impact that a farm of any size can have when we work together. Our commitment to farmer-led advocacy has been strong for more than one hundred years, making us the united, national Voice of Agriculture. And it’s the work we’ll continue doing for many more years to come.
President Larry Reagan District 2
CEO Benjamin Segovia
We are proud of the progress we’ve made and grateful for the collaboration and trust that continue to strengthen our organization. None of this would be possible without your continued support and engagement. As we look ahead to the year before us, we do so with optimism and purpose. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to building on our successes while embracing new ideas and growth Together, we will continue working toward our shared goals and a strong future
As the legislative session is now underway, we invite you to stand with us and be heard Your voice matters Your lived experience is powerful testimony to the real-world impact that rules and regulations have on our communities. When you engage, you help the agricultural industry educate policymakers on the impact of the Clear Horizons & Emission Codification, the importance of rural health care services, water management, renewable energy resources, and more. Speaking up shapes policy, influences decision-makers, and ensures that the laws being considered reflect the needs, dignity, and values of the people they affect most. This is the moment speak up. Together, our stories can drive meaningful change.
Thank you for being part of our journey. I wish you and your families a happy, healthy, and successful year ahead.
Segovia ... continued from Page 4
We are excited to announce that NMFLB is prepared to embark on a successful year filled with achievements and growth. Our dedicated team is energized and ready to serve, ensuring that our organization continues to advance the interests of agriculture and rural communities throughout the state.
Our Field Managers standsready to support all 30 New Mexico County Farm Bureau organizations. Their commitment to promoting and protecting agriculture is unwavering, and they are equipped to assist each county bureau in driving economic prosperity a vital force for New Mexico’s future. The foundation of our success is found in the passion and dedication of our volunteer grassroots members. Your involvement in identifying and setting goals for your county Farm Bureaus is invaluable. By sharing your aspirations and priorities, you enable NMFLB staff to tailor their support and help develop effective plans that turn local visions into statewide realities.
As we look ahead, NMFLB remains steadfast in our commitment to the organization’s strategic goals. We are devoted to enriching the lives of all New Mexicans by upholding our core values of integrity, reliability, dedication, and a passionate respect for agriculture These principles guide our actions and inspire us to serve you with excellence every day
Collaboration is essential for continued progress. We will work hand-in-hand with other agriculture organizations and government agencies, strengthening partnerships that foster innovation, resilience, and growth within New Mexico’s agricultural sector.
With optimism and gratitude, I want to thank each of you for your ongoing commitment to agriculture and the Farm Bureau. Together, we will make 2026 a year of prosperity, progress, and shared achievement. Our team wishes you a happy and successful New Year!
Josh Wood Government Affairs Manager
“I am committed to protecting and advocating for the agricultural industry through effective policy, education, and principled leadership.”
-Josh Wood
Josh Wood is a New Mexico native raised in the South Valley of Albuquerque, where his early exposure to community challenges sparked a lifelong passion for public service and government beginning at the age of four. He is a proud Honors graduate of New Mexico State University, where he earned undergraduate degrees in Government and Criminal Justice while maintaining strong academic standing and serving in multiple leadership roles. At NMSU, Josh served as a brother of the FarmHouse Fraternity, Director of Governmental Affairs for the Associated Students of New Mexico State University and co-founded the 1888 Leadership Initiative alongside university President, Dr. Valerio Ferme, helping mentor and develop student leaders across campus
He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Agriculture with a concentration in Agribusiness. Through his academic work and professional experience, Josh has developed a deep respect for New Mexico’s agricultural producers and the vital y and culture
Media Person of the Year ... continued from Page 7
Pictured left to right: Travis Harris, Jason Espoinoza, Katie Adams, Josh Wood, Don Hartman, Larry Reagan, and Benjie Segovia
The Ledbetter family of Portales has also been honored as the New Mexico Department of Agriculture’s Farm Family of the Year, with their operation producing chile, cotton, alfalfa, and corn silage.
Professionally, Evelyn serves as Promotions Director for KENW-FM at Eastern New Mexico University and hosts the weekly KENW-TV public affairs program You Should Know, which spotlights the people, places, and issues shaping the region. She also played a key role in the creation of All About Ag, a weekly radio segment reaching an estimated 300,000 listeners throug West Texas and Eastern New Mexico.
With thoughtful interviews, in-depth coverage, and a strong partnership with New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom, Evelyn has amplified the voice of agriculture and strengthened public understanding of the industry. The New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau is proud to recognize Evelyn Ledbetter as the 2025 Media Person of the Year for her outstanding service and commitment to agriculture.
When attending ag-industry conferences this month and playing the NMFLB Benefits BINGO game for engagement purposes it’s been brought to our attention by current dues paying members just how distant we’ve been about sharing and highlighting all the amazing benefits that we have at our fingertips. It will be a part of our mission this year to help better promote our membership benefits and continue to grow in those business connections.
Go online to our website (www.nmflb.org) and login to your account to access the member benefits page, or download the FB Benefits app (on Apple and Android phones) using your member ID# and the zip code you’re registered in.
As a light reminder, the ONLY discount that you need a printed coupon is our 30% off your order at Caliches Frozen Custard (accessible online and the app).
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If you are interested in adding your business to our Member Benefits Program, please contact Britney Lardner (britneyl@nmflb.org) to begin the process of supporting our members accross New Mexico.
New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau is, at its heart, a member organization. It is through the 30 plus county Farm Bureaus that programs are developed to meet the needs of our member families. The many programs and services provided by NMF&LB are designed to strengthen agriculture and rural New Mexico. Annual dues are only $61. If you want to be part of a successful future for agriculture in our state, join us today!
Benjamin Segovia CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Vacant BOOKKEEPER
Adams DIRECTOR, COUNTY & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Traci Curry DIRECTOR, AG IN THE CLASSROOM
Cheryl Butterfield COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
FIELD SERVICES MANAGER
Devers SENIOR PROGRAM CORDINATOR, NMAITC
Britney Lardner MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER
Theresa Widner EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
OFFICE ASSISTANT
Wright PROGRAM COORDINATOR, NMAITC
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COORDINATOR
2220 N. Telshor Blvd. Las Cruces,NM 88011
LarryReagan President,Ft.Sumner
DonHartman 1
2 VicePresident,SanAntonio
BenjaminSegovia
ChiefExecutiveOfficer
RonBaca,Aztec
BudDeerman,LaMesa
JimEllett,Hope
JoeBarraza,Yeso
LeonHemann,McDonald
GaryHathorn,FloraVista
JohnJackson,LakeArthur
RussellJohnson,Columbus
DeenaKinman,Elida
PatrickTorres,ArroyoSeco
MaceyMcDonald,Clovis
KimMiller,Grenville
TommyOrtiz,LasVegas
TroySauble,Maxwell
JamieViramontes,Deming
LeonardValerio,Española
TinaWilson,LasCruces
TomWilton,Ft.Sumner
CarlinaHarris,Chair
Women’sLeadershipCommittee
JoramRobbs,Chair
Vacant
Bookkeeper
TraciCurry
DirectorofNMAITC
ShaeDevers
NMAITCSr.ProgramCoordinator
EthanWright
NMAITCProgramCoordinator
KatieAdams
DirectorofCountyandLeadership Development
JesiWatson
AmandaSparks
ShawnAgar
FieldServicesManagers
CherylButterfield
CommunicationsManager
BritneyLardner
MarketingandEventsManager
TheresaWidner
ExecutiveAdministrativeAssistant
YoungFarmers&RanchersCommittee
BradenMouyon
OfficeAssistant