The Alabama Farmers Federation welcomed Area 1 Organization Director Barrett Gilbert July 22. As Area 1 director, Gilbert will coordinate with county federations in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties.

Gilbert is an Athens native and said he is excited to grow his relationships with area farmers.

“Agriculture has always been part of my life, whether directly or indirectly,” said Gilbert, 27. “Being from Limestone County helps me understand and relate to farmers in my area on a higher level.”

Federation Organization Director Mike Tidwell said he is encouraged by the enthusiasm Gilbert brings to the table.

“Barrett’s knowledge of agriculture and the farmers in his area is invaluable,” said Tidwell. “He’s a self-starter and has a real desire to help and support farmers.”

Gilbert was raised around his family’s cattle business, which spurred a lifelong passion for agriculture and prompted him to study agricultural business and economics at Auburn University. While there, he was involved in the university’s Young Farmers chapter. Gilbert graduated in 2012.

He joins the Federation after four years in agricultural sales at Trigreen Equipment.

Gilbert and his wife, Hannah, have been married three years. They live in Athens, where Hannah is a doctor of occupational therapy.