Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation

Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, agricultural representation in the state

The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) is a grassroots organization whose operations and priorities are set at the local level by its farmer members themselves through a democratic process that dates back to its origins. It presents itself as the largest general farming organization in Massachusetts, with a presence in 12 counties, and is part of the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), a national structure with around 6.2 million member families across the country.

The Farm Bureau movement began as an idea in Broome County, New York, in 1911. By the end of 1917 it had spread across the country and led to the creation of the AFBF, which maintains the original grassroots structure. The MFBF dates back to 1915 and, according to its own presentation, has earned recognition as the voice of agriculture in Massachusetts.

Membership structure and membership levels

Farmers join individually at the county level. The organization distinguishes several membership levels, from the consumer who supports the entity to the full-time farmer who actively participates in it. Membership provides access to the benefits of both the MFBF and the AFBF.

Areas of work with farmers

The federation works with its farmer members to identify and overcome the obstacles faced by those seeking to expand their operations with new and unique agricultural ventures. Among the areas it addresses are farm labor, agritourism, and sustainability.

Advocacy and policy development

The MFBF's activity includes legislative advocacy and policy development through a process in which members participate. The organization notes that this respect for the grassroots process and the emphasis on each member's input have allowed it to play a relevant role in shaping public policy at the local, state, and national levels.

Resources, training, and publications

The entity offers its members agricultural resources, an allied business directory, a newsletter, a news and events calendar, a classified ads service, and a Farm Plates 101 workshop video. It also manages grants and scholarships and has an online store.

In 2020 the organization published the book Massachusetts Century Farms, which profiles 132 farms in the state that received this distinction. The MFBF has noted that there are more farms in Massachusetts that meet the requirements and has invited people to report those not recognized in the 2020 edition for a future 2030 edition.

Institutional activity and events

The federation organizes and participates in regular gatherings. These include the MFBF annual meeting, the county annual meetings, and the Tri-State annual meeting (Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Connecticut), scheduled for November 12-14, 2026, at the DCU Convention Center. The calendar also includes the Livestock on the Common event, an annual tradition on Boston Common, and Ag Day at the State House, with a date on March 11, 2026. The organization has also shared online educational sessions, such as a webinar on the invasive pest known as the Spotted Lanternfly, presented by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR).

Related insurance services

Through A&B Insurance Group, the federation offers home, auto, farm, and business coverage. The entity refers to three offices for more information: Westford, Deerfield, and Marlboro.

Locations and offices

Main office: 249 Lakeside Avenue, Marlborough, MA 01752 · Phone: 508 481 4766 · Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Westford office: Phone: 978-399-0025

Deerfield office: Phone: 413-665-0088

Marlboro office: Phone: 508-460-2008

N. Adams office: Phone: 413-398-5011