Riverhead - The Long Island Farm Bureau will host a Young Farmer Dinner on Thursday, Feb. 5 for those between the ages of 18 and 35 who work in production agriculture.

The Farm Bureau strives to strengthen agriculture through a grassroots structure. Today's young farmers have a world of advanced technology and knowledge at their fingertips.

"The business of agriculture has become a growing challenge on Long Island", says Joseph Gergela, Executive Director of Long Island Farm Bureau, "Our goal to empower the next generation to stay informed and educated on issues surrounding the agricultural world locally, nationally and globally."

The Farm Bureau's goal is to provide leadership, education and empowerment to the next generation of farmers so that they may continue a 300 year old legacy on Long Island.

"As a 30 year-old Long Island resident and working professional in the greenhouse industry, Farm Bureau has been a vital organization to be involved with", says LIFB's Young Farmer & Rancher Committee Chairperson Heather Jarski, "Long Island Farm Bureau has provided me with great opportunities to network with other young people, locally and nationally, who also work in production agriculture.

The organization has also educated me on the legislative process as vital issues arise affecting Long Island." When asked why other Young Farmers should attend this dinner, Heather responded, "Because the future of agriculture is in our hands. We alone will have a voice, a unified voice, to speak on behalf of our industry." Long Island Farm Bureau welcomes all young agricultural-related persons to attend a warm, fun and friendly evening. The dinner will include a tour of the Greenhouse facility.

The event will be held at the Van de Wettering Greenhouses in Riverhead. Reservations are required. For more information and reservations call 631-727-3777.