(La Porte, IN) - A leader in the agriculture community for the region is stepping down from his position.

 

Indiana Farm Bureau District 1 Director Harold Parker decided not to seek reelection after nine years in the seat.  His district covers Lake, Porter, La Porte, St. Joseph, Starke, Fulton, Marshall and Pulaski counties.  

 

The lifelong La Porte area farmer will replaced by Lake County resident Matt Hayden, who raises corn, soybeans and beef cattle in Lake County.

 

Parker, 72, said it was time for younger blood, especially knowing the skills Hayden brings to the position.

 

“A young guy wanted to take my place and I had a good guy to come in so I thought it would be a good time to exit,” he said.

 

Parker, who raises 200 acres of tomatoes for Red Gold, along with corn and soybeans, was recognized Thursday night during the annual meeting of the LaPorte County branch of Indiana Farm Bureau.

 

The meeting was held before a full house of mostly members of the organization and public officials at the Silver Palace in La Porte. 

 

Parker was presented with a gift card and plaque by LaPorte County Farm Bureau President Mark Parkman, a farmer from the Westville area.

 

“I know in my world here at Farm Bureau, I wouldn’t be able to do what I’ve been able to do without Harold’s help,” he said.

 

Parker said his work in helping provide affordable health insurance options to Indiana Farm Bureau members is among his proudest achievements.

 

In 2021, Indiana Farm Bureau began offering health coverage in response to many farmers and other members struggling to afford their own plans.

 

Making it possible was the governor signing legislation overwhelmingly approved in the house and senate.

 

Other achievements Parker cited as a voice at Indiana Farm Bureau involved work to reduce flooding along the Kankakee River and property tax relief for farmers.

 

“We had differences but we usually were able to come to an agreement on what was best for our people that we help serve,” he said.

 

Parkman described Parker as someone capable of getting the attention of state lawmakers on matters important to the agriculture community.

 

“He was very vocal downstate in expressing opinions from a different perspective.  We are very grateful for the time he put in for us,” he said.