North Dakota Woman Wins Farm Bureau Discussion Meet

Madison Bodine of Mandan to represent state at national competition

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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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. Bodine's strong knowledge and articulate discussion skills earned her the top honors and a $4,000 prize.

Why it matters

The Discussion Meet is a competitive exchange of ideas on agricultural issues, providing an opportunity for young farmers and ranchers to connect, collaborate, and gain insight on key industry topics. Bodine's win showcases North Dakota's strong agricultural community and her preparation for the national competition will allow her to learn more about challenges and policies affecting farmers and ranchers across the country.

The details

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. Bodine will spend the coming year preparing for the national competition, where she hopes to learn more about the agricultural experiences and policy impacts in 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 young farmer and rancher from Mandan, North Dakota who won the NDFB Young Farmer and Rancher Discussion Meet and will represent the state 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 that Bodine will participate in during their 2027 convention.

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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

“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

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 at the NDFB Discussion Meet showcases North Dakota's strong agricultural community and her participation in the national competition will allow her to gain valuable insights into challenges and policies affecting farmers and ranchers across the country, further strengthening the state's agricultural industry.