Cooperative Spirit
February 26, 2024
Written By Adam Buckallew
When Tyler Miller was asked by his local bulk plant manager to consider becoming an MFA Oil delegate, he embraced the opportunity. Miller, 29, appreciated the chance to get more involved with the cooperative and deepen his understanding of the company’s operations.
“I saw it as an important opportunity to be a part of something that benefits us all,” Miller said. “We as farmers need lots of fuel, oil and grease to do our jobs. Being a delegate for the cooperative gives me better insight into how the company serves those needs and allows me to represent our local farmers in the co-op’s governance.”
Miller raises corn, soybeans, hay and cattle near Pleasant Hill, Mo. He started farming in 2013 with 15 acres of land and has steadily built that acreage up to 800 acres of row crops and 400 acres of grazing land. A custom hay baling business and a small herd of cattle add diversity to Miller’s operations.
In December, Miller attended his first MFA Oil Annual Delegate meeting. He enjoyed meeting farmers from around the state; listening to the speakers, especially Missouri Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe; and hearing from Glen Cope, chairman of the MFA Oil Board of Directors. Miller also appreciated the opportunity to talk to staff from various business units within the company.
“I had a good conversation with the representatives from the MFA Oil Laboratory,” Miller said. “We discussed the oil analysis services that they offer. I’m planning to start collecting oil samples so that I can send them in for analysis. That’s a great service the company offers, and I want to start taking advantage of it.”
Though he has only been an MFA Oil member for a few years, Miller has quickly grown to appreciate the co op’s products and services.
“We got started with MFA Oil because they offered us an attractive leasing option for our bulk fuel tank,” Miller said. “Since then, I’ve found the quality of the fuel and lubricants is great, we have built good relationships with the staff, and the convenience of the Petro-Card 24s is nice as well.”
In addition to serving as an MFA Oil delegate, Miller is the Cass County Farm Bureau vice president, and he was recently elected to the Cass County Farm Service Agency Committee. He credits his involvement with FFA for kickstarting his interest in agricultural leadership roles. Miller said he makes time to get involved in agricultural organizations because it offers him a chance to make a difference at the local level.
“There are many things that we, as farmers, can’t control,” Miller said. “Being active in county organizations and serving my local bulk plant allows me a chance to make a local impact. That’s something I’ve learned from my dad.”
Miller looks forward to serving his local community and representing Cass County farmers in various volunteer roles.
“Getting involved is the best way I can see to make a difference,” he said. “Whether it be locally or in the broader agricultural community, we need farmers who are willing to take on leadership roles outside of their on-farm responsibilities. I’m proud to do my part.”