Early this week, representatives from the Wisconsin Farmers Union had the unique opportunity to be among the more than 300 farmers and ranchers who gathered in the nation’s capital for the National Farmer’s Unions Fall Legislative Fly-In. The annual event allowed Farmers Union members from across the country to meet in the nations capital for three days to talk with lawmakers, USDA leaders and other administration officials to discuss issues important to family farmers and ranchers.
During their time in the capital, Wisconsin Farmers Union representatives worked hard to educate their representatives of the issues facing agriculture today and the needed policies for the success of U.S. farmers.
“As a farmer-led organization, grassroots advocacy and education are a big part of Farmers Union,” said Wisconsin Farmers Union President and Westby dairy farmer Darin Von Ruden. “The fly-in is an opportunity for members to meet with their representatives in Congress and put a face to the issues impacting rural America. Given the state of the farm economy, we need to ensure policies are supporting family farmers and ranchers, and their rural communities.”
During their time at the fly-in Farmers Union representatives traveled to Capitol Hill to meet in small-groups with all 535 congressional offices. The fly-in participants were also able to meet with U.S. Senate and House of Representatives agriculture committees’ staff members to gain insight into the committees’ fall agendas.
“Congress has a long list of issues to deal with this fall, and we want to make sure they’re considering the social and economic well-being of American family farmers and ranchers with every vote they cast,” said National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson. “NFU members are especially concerned about the prospect of an adequate farm safety net through the 2018 Farm Bill, bipartisan health care system fixes that ensure accessible, affordable, quality health care, and expanded markets for American grown, renewable fuels, including E30 and advanced biofuels.”
The National Farmer’s Union Fall Legislative Fly-In, was a great opportunity for farmers and ranchers to be heard by their elected officials and hopefully spark needed change in policy.
Wisconsin Farmers Union is a member-driven organization committed to enhancing the quality of life for family farmers, rural communities, and all people through educational opportunities, cooperative endeavors, and civic engagement. Learn more at www.WisconsinFarmersUnion.com.