By Blake Jackson
Over sixty family farmers and rural advocates convened in Madison on March 4th for Wisconsin Farmers Union's (WFU) Farm & Rural Lobby Day. This annual event provides a platform for WFU members to advocate for policy priorities determined at their state convention.
This year's focus areas included local food security, rural development, soil health, affordable healthcare, farmer mental health, agricultural education, and dairy policy.
“Farm & Rural Lobby Day is always an important opportunity for Farmers Union members to advocate for rural communities, but this year it’s especially critical,” said Darin Von Ruden, WFU President and dairy farmer from Westby.
“With uncertainty at the federal level and Wisconsin in the midst of a state budget year, now is the time for farmers to come together and ensure that our voices are heard in shaping policies that will impact agriculture and rural economies for years to come.”
Governor Tony Evers addressed the gathering, highlighting his commitment to supporting Wisconsin's agricultural sector with over $80 million allocated in his proposed 2025-27 Executive Budget. "I've always thought of agriculture issues as nonpartisan," Evers remarked. "They have to be."
WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Deputy Secretary Aileen Switzer also spoke, providing updates on DATCP initiatives and the Wisconsin Farm Center's work, including farmer mental health resources.
Representative Jodi Emerson discussed upcoming legislation to support Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) and encourage local food purchasing.
WFU members will continue their advocacy efforts at the National Farmers Union Fly-In in September and the National Farmers Union Convention in March. For more information, visit www.wisconsinfarmersunion.com.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Wisconsin, Business