Many ag groups are trying to educate legislators on the most pressing issues facing the industry

A new Congress means fresh faces, but newcomers might not be as well-versed in agriculture as others. One horticulture group says it is a good opportunity to advocate for agriculture.

“That’s always a challenge, both with what we call ‘freshmen,’ or the new members within Congress, as well as, frankly, a lot of the veterans [legislators],” said Kate Tynan, Senior Vice President at the Northwest Horticultural Council. “And you have new staff who are coming in, and that can be an opportunity, as much as it is a challenge, to make sure folks are up to speed.”

Tynan says the biggest issue they are trying to drive home is the growing ag trade deficit, which is set to hit more than $45 billion this year.

Related Stories
From a girl raised in a Russian orphanage with no dreams of the future, to a transplant flourishing a half a world away from her native home, Anya Irons exemplifies the FarmHER life!

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Geomagnetic storms have been occurring with increased frequency in space this year, with significant consequences for agriculture.
Crop diseases and pests are taking a toll on Kansas corn. Two crop experts from Kansas State University share tips for producers dealing with cutworms and armyworms.
The Illinois Farm Bureau shows how hemp can regenerate the earth and boost rural economies.
Betsy Jibben with Ag Market Consulting takes us behind the scenes on report day with AgMarket.net.
A slimmed-down Farm Bill is back on the table in Washington, with lawmakers pushing for a deal by Fall 2025. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas weighs in with his outlook.