MFU members: Congress must act for farmers’ sake

At a time when farmers are experiencing volatile markets, rising input costs, shrinking federal support, and mounting trade tensions, a reauthorized Farm Bill is crucial to their success, Montana Farmers Union members, along with roughly 100 other producers from across the county, told Congressional members this week in Washington, D.C.

The Farmers Union members were in D.C. during National Farmers Union’s Week of Action to emphasize the importance of passing a strong Farm Bill that addresses the challenges agricultural producers face.

“We had good face-to-face meetings with Congressmen Zinke and Downing, as well as with Senators Daines and Sheehy. We shared the resolution passed by the Montana Legislature encouraging Congress to reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling. We all shared the importance of keeping our local FSA offices open and fully staffed. We talked about the uncertainty in agriculture and how that is impacting financing and planning for this season,” Montana Farmers Union President Walter Schweitzer said.

MFU members spoke with representatives and senators from multiple states, sharing personal stories about how policies impact them day to day, focusing on the need for a five-year, bipartisan bill that:

• Strengthens the farm safety net
• Builds upon voluntary conservation programs
• Restores balance and opportunity in the marketplace
• Delivers fast and reliable risk management programs
• Garners broad support from both farmers and consumers

MFU member Carah Ronan, who also serves as the Next Generation Advisory Representative on NFU’s board, also participated in several press conferences, highlighting Montana and the need for a farm bill that preserves the connection between consumers and producers.

“If Congress doesn’t hear from the producer – the one who has boots on the ground – then they really can never know what’s truly happening in their rural communities,” said Samantha Ferrat, who ranches in Toston and serves as a membership ambassador for MFU.

Montana’s delegation was open to conversation about the Farm Bill and other topics, Ferrat said, adding that taking time away from her ranch during a busy time is critical to advocate for hers and other farms and ranches.  

While the Week of Action wrapped up Friday, Montana Farmers Union will continue to amplify Montana producer voices.

“It’s worth taking the time to tell our story in our own words before someone else tells it in theirs,” Ferrat said.

Visit www.montanafarmersunion.com to learn more about how to add your voice to the chorus asking for reauthorized Farm Bill.