Washington, D.C. (September 13, 2018) – The National Association of Wheat Growers wrapped up its annual policy fly-in today. NAWG Officers and wheat farmers from its 21 states across the country arrived on Tuesday to talk with Congressional Members and USDA representatives on NAWG’s priorities for the Farm Bill conference process as well as trade.
“With the Farm Bill reauthorization deadline of September 30th quickly approaching, it was critical to have NAWG growers in Washington, D.C. to make clear our positions on the Farm Bill and trade with the committee members, their staff, and the Administration,” said Jimmie Musick, NAWG President and Sentinel, OK wheat grower. “In addition to our meetings on the Hill, NAWG and its members had the opportunity to meet with key USDA staff from the Farm Service Agency (FSA), Risk Management Agency (RMA), and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).”
While meeting on the hill, NAWG emphasized that crop insurance is of the upmost importance regarding risk management, especially after a year tainted with drought and wildfires. Wheat growers continued to push for a stronger farm safety net program and improvements to revenue-based (Agriculture Risk Coverage) and price-based (Price Loss Coverage) programs. Increasing funding for Market Access Development and Foreign Market Development programs was also discussed during meetings. Additionally, growers reiterated the need for changes to the current trade environment.
“It is necessary that Congressional Members and the Administration hear directly from wheat growers about how the Farm Bill and trade is impacting their operations and livelihood,” stated Musick. “This gives us an opportunity to help get the legislation passed swiftly and efficiently for the benefit of all farmers.”