The Boards of Directors of Mountain West Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company and IFB Mutual Insurance Holding Company have approved a strategic transaction to merge Mountain West into IFB Mutual Insurance Holding Company, the parent company of Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho.

This transaction strengthens the Farm Bureau family of companies, enhancing our competitive position, financial strength, and long-term stability. Upon completion of the merger, Mountain West will be converted into a stock insurance company wholly owned by IFB Mutual Insurance Holding Company. Mountain West will continue to do business under its current brand in the states it serves today.

The combined organization will support policyholders across five states—Idaho, Washington, Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado—serving more than 130,000 members with over $800 million in annualized premium.

Together, more than 450 employees and 250 local agents and their team members will continue serving Farm Bureau members and communities across this expanded geography.

“This merger positions us for long-term success, creating efficiencies and growth opportunities while reinforcing our strong capital position,” said Todd Argall, CEO of IFB Mutual Insurance Holding Company and Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho. “Together, we are stronger, and better prepared to serve our members today and into the future.”

“The Farm Bureau family of companies has a long history of strong partnerships,” said Jim Geesey, President and CEO of Mountain West Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company. “The close proximity of our geographies and the alignment of our missions and cultures make Idaho Farm Bureau a natural fit for us. This new partnership will continue to strengthen the brand across our territories, support the growth of both organizations, and have a positive impact on the communities we serve for generations to come.”

The merger process will take approximately four months and is subject to regulatory approval. Both companies—each with more than 75 years of service to members—look forward to combining their strengths while maintaining their strong local roots and commitment to policyholders.

Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho is also proud to announce the kickoff of its annual Veterans Day Essay Contest, inviting young writers across the state to honor the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces. 

This long-standing tradition encourages Idaho students to reflect on their family members’ service and sharewhat that legacy means to them — with cash prizes and the opportunity to be recognized at Farm Bureau’s annual Salute to Idaho Veterans celebration.

Students may enter in one of three age categories:

• 1st through 6th grade

• 7th through 9th grade

• 10th through 12th grade

Cash prizes will be awarded to each category winner:

• $250 for 1st through 6th grade

• $500 for 7th through 9th grade

• $750 for 10th through 12th grade

Winners will also be invited to share excerpts of their essays at the 13th Annual Farm Bureau Salute to Idaho Veterans event on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Farm Bureau’s home office in Pocatello. The Salute runs from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM and is free to all veterans, active-duty personnel and their families.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

In addition to student presentations, the Salute will feature:

• A keynote address by Captain Chris Cassidy — a decorated U.S. Navy SEAL and NASA astronaut, and President &

CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum

• A flag ceremony and Posting of the Colors

• Branch hymn tributes performed by the Idaho Falls Brass Quintet

• A complimentary luncheon for attendees

• A veterans slideshow and complimentary commemorative coin

• Complimentary portrait photos of veterans by professional photographer Deloy Stuart

HOW TO ENTER

Entry forms are available from local Farm Bureau Insurance agents or online at

www.idahofarmbureauinsurance.com/news/annual-veterans-day-contest