A group of Wisconsin producers are among the 250 farmers meeting in Washington, D.C., this week for the National Farmers Union's Fall Legislative Fly-In. Delegates are meeting with lawmakers, USDA leaders, and other administration officials to advocate for fairness for farmers, farm bill priorities, dairy policy reform, and climate, conservation and biofuel efforts.
This year, 17 Wisconsin Farmers Union members made the trek to the nation's capital. WFU Governmental Relations Director Rick Adamski says members have plenty of issues to discuss when meeting with their representatives.
"It's all about building relationships, whether it's with other Farmers Union members, with administrators, or with legislative representatives," Adamski said. "When you're talking about problems or hoping to get a program that is working extended, those relationships are vital."
WFU President Darin Von Ruden says access to federal agriculture staff members and Congressional lawmakers is key to educating them about the needs of farmers and rural communities.
"I see the challenges we're facing in rural areas as a chance to get people who are in positions of power to pay attention to those issues," Von Ruden noted. "There is attention being paid to rural America right now, and it seems like there is willingness on both sides of the political aisle to listen and take action."
Von Ruden adds that he sees more possibilities ahead and notes continued discussions with USDA and policy makers are key to progress.
Categories: Wisconsin, Business