By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) members joined hundreds of farmers and ranchers at the National Farmers Union's 123rd Anniversary Convention in Oklahoma City, where they set the organization's 2025 policy.
“This is a challenging moment for family farmers. Rising costs, corporate consolidation and uncertainty around federal programs-including the lack of a renewed farm bill-are creating real hardships,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “Yet through it all, the state of Farmers Union remains strong, resilient and prepared to turn the policies set at this convention into action for a stronger future in agriculture.”
"Family farmers face immense challenges, but by coming together, we shape policies that protect our livelihoods and ensure a fairer, more sustainable agricultural system for future generations,” said WFU President Darin Von Ruden. Wisconsin Farmers Union is proud to bring our state's priorities to the national stage, advocating for dairy policy improvements, fair markets, and strong rural communities."
During the convention, several WFU chapters, including Sauk, South Central, and Dane, received Membership and Leadership Awards. WFU member Anita Nelson was honored with the Bruce Miller Membership Award for her dedication to family farming and rural America.
Delegates engaged in democratic policy debates, a cornerstone of Farmers Union's structure. The Wisconsin delegation successfully expanded dairy language in the Family Farming and Farm Bill, and Fairness for Farmers special orders. Other policy discussions covered conservation easements, water management, and tariff impacts.
Representing WFU as delegates were Jerry Croes, Sarah Lloyd, Dave Rosen, Jen Schmitz, and Darin Von Ruden. Krist Kvalheim served as convention parliamentarian.
Delegates approved three special orders of business: Fairness for Farmers, Family Farming and the Farm Bill, and Family Farming and Our Federal Government, solidifying the organization's advocacy priorities for the coming year.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Wisconsin, Business