Rapides Parish 4-H Alumnus Achieves Louisiana Farm Bureau Discussion Meet Title

Tyler Barlow speaks during the final round of the Young Farmers and Ranchers Discussion Meet.

NEW ORLEANS—Tyler Barlow, 24, of Rapides Parish claimed the Discussion Meet title at the 104th Annual Louisiana Farm Bureau Convention held at the Marriott on Canal St. in New Orleans.

Barlow emerged victorious from a field of 12 competitors, advancing through multiple rounds of discussion before earning the top honor in the Young Farmers and Ranchers contest.

The Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting and is designed to help young agricultural leaders strengthen communication, problem-solving and leadership skills while discussing current issues facing agriculture.

Barlow competed against three other finalists as they discussed the following topic: How Farm Bureau can leverage its grassroots network to ease supply chain challenges in the meat industry.

A 4-H alumnus, Barlow holds a Bachelor of Science degree and represented Rapides Parish Farm Bureau in the competition.

As the Discussion Meet winner, Barlow received a John Deere Gator utility vehicle courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2027 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he will represent Louisiana in the national Discussion Meet competition, and additional cash prizes.