About Us

Menard County Farm Bureau® is a not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to educating community leaders, legislators, consumers, and schools about agriculture. The organization strives to enhance opportunities to our members for improving their farm and businesses. 

Menard County Farm Bureau® feels it is important to help promote agriculture throughout the county. The Menard County Farm Bureau® does this by donating time, resources and money to local organizations, groups and events that promote agriculture. 

Menard County Farm Bureau® is affiliated with the Illinois Farm Bureau®. 

Mission Statement / Goals

Enriching our community through contributions to agriculture
2026 Goals
  1. Continue to strengthen and expand our Adopt-A-Legislator relationship to build a greater understanding and support agriculture. 
  2. Promote sustainable and profitable farming practices that strengthen both the agricultural industry and the surrounding community.
  3. Hold consistent, meaningful conversations with elected officials to ensure agriculture’s voice is heard on key issues.
  4. Deepen partnerships with local FFA and 4-H programs to invest in youth leadership and agricultural education.
  5. Develop and empower the next generation of leaders by growing participation in our multi-county Young Leaders Committee.

Our Office

Menard County Farm Bureau

101 E. Jefferson St.
Petersburg, IL 62675
​Monday through Friday, 8 am - 12pm
217-632-2217
[email protected]

Staff

Ryan Held, Manager ([email protected])
Gerry Ballinger, Administrative Assistant

Board of Directors

Doug Gellerman - President
Dan Haynes - Vice President
Evan Carls - Treasurer
Bruce Shanle - Secretary
Gordon Watkins - Director
Maralee Willis - Director
Matthew Kunken - Director
Lauren Whitcomb - Director
Ryan Todd - Director