An association for people who live in the country? It seems like we have a lot of those but maybe not one like this. It’ll be interesting to see how this turns out. The announcement says there will be an annual convention and trade show too. Hmmm . . . Member registration is $49.

A new association to address the needs of the ever-growing “country living” population will begin initial operation Sept. 15, 2006. The new entity is named Country Living Association and its membership is focused on individuals and families who reside in the country and marketers who supply these families with goods and services relating to country life. “Data proves there are millions of households made up of people who reside outside of cities on acreages ranging from one to 50. These people, as well as traditional farm operators, have unique needs and priorities, and they can benefit greatly from a collective voice, as well as networking opportunities and educational resources,” says Alan Krob, executive director of Country Living Association.

In addition to introducing the new association, Krob announced that Meredith Corporation’s Living the Country Life will serve as the organization’s official publication, and John Deere has committed to be a founding sponsor.