Representative Tom Bennett (R-Watseka), State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) and Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Philip Nelson pose with several 4H members Wednesday in Graymont. (CYNTHIA GRAU/WJEZ)

By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

Dozens of ag enthusiasts gathered on the Zehrview Farms in rural Graymont yesterday morning for a special Town Hall Meeting.

This meeting, organized by Senator Jason Barickman, along with invited guest speaker, Ag Director Philip Nelson, spoke to a crowd about important subjects including agricultural policies and programs.

Barickman said this was a time for local farmers to weigh in with questions and comments about the future of agriculture.

“This is just an opportunity to meet with constituents, to hear what’s on their mind. I’m sure we’re going to take questions from the audience regarding the budget dispute that continues over the summer. I think that affects everybody. I’m interested to hear the perspectives are of these people who generally represent farm families from Livingston County,” said Barickman.

Zehrview is a Holstein dairy farm located north of Graymont.