Mandan Woman Wins NDFB Discussion Meet

Madison Bodine to represent North Dakota at national competition

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Madison Bodine of Mandan, North Dakota has won the NDFB Young Farmer and Rancher Discussion Meet and will represent the state at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Discussion Meet during the 2027 AFBF Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina next January.

Why it matters

The Discussion Meet is a competitive exchange of ideas on agricultural issues, allowing participants to showcase their knowledge and discussion skills on key topics facing the farming and ranching community. Bodine's win highlights North Dakota's strong agricultural voice and the state's commitment to developing the next generation of farm leaders.

The details

Bodine's strong performance and articulate discussion skills earned her the top prize of $4,000. In the final round, competitors discussed ways for farmers and ranchers to enhance environmental stewardship while maintaining a balance between environmental and financial sustainability in their operations. As the winner, Bodine will spend the coming year preparing for the national competition, where she looks forward to learning more about the agricultural issues and policies affecting other states.

  • Bodine won the NDFB Young Farmer and Rancher Discussion Meet on February 10, 2026.
  • Bodine will represent North Dakota at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Discussion Meet during the 2027 AFBF Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina next January.

The players

Madison Bodine

A resident of Mandan, North Dakota who grew up on a farm and ranch near Voltaire and was active in FFA while attending Velva High School. She won the NDFB Young Farmer and Rancher Discussion Meet and will represent North Dakota at the national competition.

NDFB

The North Dakota Farm Bureau, the most effective general farm and ranch organization in the state of North Dakota, with more than 28,000 member families and 50 organized county Farm Bureaus.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF)

The national organization that will host the Discussion Meet competition where Bodine will represent North Dakota in 2027.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I participated in the Discussion Meet because it's a great opportunity to connect with other Farm Bureau members, collaborate and gain insight on key issues. It's also a healthy challenge that pushes you to think outside the box.”

— Madison Bodine (NDFB news release)

“As I prepare for nationals, I'm excited to learn more about what other states are experiencing in their ag industries and how national policies affect them.”

— Madison Bodine (NDFB news release)

What’s next

Bodine will spend the coming year preparing for the national competition at the 2027 AFBF Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The takeaway

Bodine's win in the NDFB Discussion Meet highlights North Dakota's strong agricultural voice and the state's commitment to developing the next generation of farm leaders who can effectively advocate for the industry on a national stage.