Of all the positive words Bob Shaw has for the Florida Farm Bureau, there is none stronger than his expression of appreciation for the members he has known during his 28-year career with the organization.

“I’ve met some wonderful people in Farm Bureau over the years,” he said. “Most of them treat you like family. You just get attached to them.”

Shaw, assistant director of field services, has also observed a collective sense of purpose among farmers and ranchers. “They all have a bond,” he explained. “They are all out making a living by working the land.”

He has many good memories of his service. Some of the best ones involve observing the maturation of young people and their entry into volunteer Farm Bureau leadership roles.

“I remember talking to them about the Outstanding Young Farmer and Rancher program,” he recalled. “I also remember talking to county boards about young people who could serve in leadership positions. Then, these same people became county presidents and, in some cases, state board members.

“I watched them grow from 22-year-olds to adults with kids. They became outstanding farmers and outstanding human beings.”

Shaw’s field district extends from St. Johns County across to Levy County and south to the Orange County line. The geographic territory is familiar to him as a result daily travels over the years. But the job has changed dramatically since he began work with Florida Farm Bureau in the early 1970s.

Like his colleagues in other field districts across the state, Shaw is called upon to represent the organization at public meetings held by county, state and federal agencies, including water management districts. Regulatory issues demand much of his time.
“Water management districts, pesticide issues, tree ordinances and comprehensive plans – all of these things have come into existence since I started,” Shaw stated. “I think each one of them adds up to give you a different perspective on a problem and creates something else to challenge you.”

Larry Loadholtz, president of the Volusia County Farm Bureau, pointed out that Shaw has always been able to provide assistance when it is needed. “His strong point is in knowing what we need to know to help us,” Loadholtz said.

“We don’t have to reach him because he visits us all the time,” he added. “Bob is always accessible. If I have any questions, I can get them answered. He does an excellent job.”

Bill Hester, the county Farm Bureau’s executive director, said he counts on Shaw for help when challenges appear. “It is nice to have someone from the state office come by on a regular basis,” Hester noted. “Bob helps me solve problems.”

Bob’s wife, Marilyn, is a teacher specialist with the Alachua County school system. His hobbies include golf and gardening.