From this problem, question, and potential explanations, the following objectives

were developed to guide this study.

 Objectives of the Study

1. Identify selected demographics of county Farm Bureau membership.

2. Identify perceived leadership roles of county Farm Bureau leaders held by the state
 Farm Bureau leadership.

3. Measure the extent to which county Farm Bureau members practice the leadership
 expectations held by state Farm Bureau leaders and the level of importance they
 assign to those skills.

4. Determine leadership attitude, will, and desire of active Florida Farm Bureau
 members.

5. Determine reason why local Farm Bureau members chose to participate or not
 participate in leadership roles in local county Farm Bureau boards.


 Significance of the Study

 This study added to the body of knowledge on grassroots organizations, rural

leadership, and effective board membership. This study can serve as a model for other

Farm Bureau organizations, or other organizations interested in developing greater

participation in grassroots leadership. This is a critical time for Farm Bureaus around the

country, as well as other rural and agricultural organizations, as they change to meet new

needs of agriculture and the people who make their livelihood in this industry. The Farm

Bureau of today faces many challenges and it will need to evolve to meet those

challenges. In order for this evolution to occur, strong and capable leaders must emerge

and assume leadership positions and responsibilities.