Rhea Landholm, brand marketing and communications manager, rheal@cfra.org, 402.687.2100 ext 1025
Washington, DC - Anna Johnson of the Center for Rural Affairs recently met with Midwest legislators in Washington, DC to discuss conservation in the next farm bill.
On Nov. 8, Johnson joined farmers from Iowa, Kansas, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, and other states in a fly-in sponsored by the Center for Rural Affairs and the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.
Alongside dairy farmer Sarah Gilbert of Iowa Falls, Johnson met with Rep. David Young. They also met with staff for Sens. Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst. Additionally, Johnson met with staff for Reps. Rod Blum, Steve King, and Dave Loebsack.
“We were glad to be able to discuss with our representatives the importance of working lands conservation programs such as the Conservation Stewardship Program,” Johnson said. “These programs provide vital support to farmers who wish to steward their land for the next generation. They also help beginning farmers get started on a track of stewardship.”
In every meeting, Johnson delivered a letter signed by nearly 30 farmers from around Iowa. The letter asks Iowa representatives to prioritize conservation in the next farm bill.
“The farmer fly-in is part of a national effort to maintain and strengthen conservation of the nation’s resources, and support a healthy rural America,” Johnson added. “In addition, farmers are reminded that on Capitol Hill, their voices make a difference.”
Congress has started work on the next farm bill. The current farm bill expires on Sept. 30, 2018.
