Progress in Washington for this year’s Farm Bill is nearing a halt, but that has not stopped ag groups from letting lawmakers know their priorities.
Ted McKinney, President of NASDA, says the U.S. is falling behind in funding for ag research and trade programs. He tells Brownfield Ag News spending on land grant institutions has been a low priority in the last two Farm Bills, and he feels that has led to a decline in new talent for the food and ag sector.
NASDA members are also calling for more market access and development. McKinney says that is the only way to level the playing field around the world.
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Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas discusses the Harvest Fuel Relief program, producers’ financial pressures, and next steps for farm legislation.
Both versions would set a minimum for program funds used to buy American commodities.
The National Corn Growers Association is urging action on E15 and the Farm Bill as larger corn supplies weigh on prices and harvest trails the five-year average.
NCBA’s Ethan Lane says the labeling policy would increase expenses for producers without driving demand.
Ohio’s 90-day fuel-tax suspension provides temporary relief as farmers work through harvest, but Brad Bales with the Ohio Farm Bureau says longer-term solutions are needed to address higher production costs.
Kansas farmers are facing harvest delays after heavy rain followed a summer of drought and extreme heat, while lower yields and higher diesel costs add pressure.
