Corn growers urged to advocate for ag issues

WASHINGTON — With the farm bill, Next Generation Fuels Act and global trade discussions on the table in Congress, now is the time for farmers to make their voices heard.

The National Corn Growers Association urged farmers to advocate for agricultural issues during a recent episode of its podcast.

Here are four takeaways:

1. Key legislative issues affecting agriculture — Corn growers are encouraged to rally behind several pieces of legislation moving through Congress. The farm bill, which supports vital programs like crop insurance, is a top priority for many.

“I would say the top priorities for NCGA and for our state associations are to protect crop insurance,” said Lindsay Croke, marketing director at Illinois Corn.

Farmers want a robust crop insurance program that works for them.

Another pressing issue is the Next Generation Fuels Act, aimed at boosting biofuel production, and ongoing efforts to open up global trade, which would boost the ag economy.

2. Importance of grassroots advocacy — Luke Crumley, director of public policy and sustainability at Ohio Corn and Wheat, addressed the frustration that many people feel in today’s political climate.

“I think if you were to ask the average corn grower in Ohio right now, they’d be very frustrated,” he said. “We’re frustrated, too. The political dynamic in Washington has always been partisan. There are always things in the way of making good policy happen.

“That’s why we focus so much on equipping our advocates to show up, time and time again, instead of seeing victory only as a single piece of legislation getting passed.”

He encouraged farmers to channel their political frustrations in a constructive way.

“The most effective tool in NCGA’s toolkit is the credibility of our members,” he said. “Something like 84% of the American public trusts farmers.

“When we talk about the importance of hosting a member of Congress, joining us for a tour, or visiting with them as part of a fundraiser … these are really important tactics to help us build credibility over time, to set us up not for Nov. 5 — but for Nov. 6 and every day thereafter.”

3. Stay informed and get involved — Both Croke and Crumley urged farmers to stay informed about agricultural issues and to critically evaluate their news sources.

Membership in organizations like NCGA or Farm Bureau provides farmers access to accurate, up-to-date information on policy discussions in Washington.

“There are so many channels where people can find information,” Crumley said. “The difference is, where do you go to find wisdom? If you’re not a member of NCGA, you need to join through your state association or renew your membership. You have the opportunity to opt into those communications.”

4. Beyond the farm bill: Preparing for future debates — While the farm bill is a major focus for ag advocates, Crumley pointed out that other significant issues are on the horizon.

Tax policy, particularly the expiration of Trump-era tax cuts in 2025, will be a hot topic.

“As a congressional staffer, it’s very easy to assume that everything the farm community cares about is contained in the farm bill,” Crumley said.

“We know that is false. We have to own the issue about biofuels unlike any other organization. And a good chunk of our policy exists outside of the farm bill. We have to be competent on a lot of issues.”

Farmers are encouraged to act now, using their voices to advocate for the issues that will shape the future of agriculture.

With the right engagement, they can influence decisions in Washington that directly affect their livelihoods.

Listen to the complete podcast at https://tinyurl.com/379ydkem.