Class of 2016 National Study Seminar: Day 6

From Washington, DC; Friday, March 13, 2015

Written by Krista Lottinville, David Mool, and Joe Zumwalt – Presiding Fellows

The class had another beautiful day in Washington DC. We did considerably less walking which was a bit of a reprieve from a very busy week. We spent time on the hill as well as out at the Department of Transportation. On our last day in DC and  on behalf of the the class, we’d like to thank IALF for doing a great job of putting us in front of many influential and important agencies and representatives.

After our week in DC it is evident that all sectors of agriculture are interconnected on policy issues. We are all charged with protecting our farmers and expanding our production of food to feed the world. The issues that pork producers are concerned about aline with many that other sectors all along the supply chain are looking at.

We learned at DOT that freight traffic on highways, rail, and rivers is projected to increase by 45% by 2040. It’s clear we will need to make significant investments in infrastructure in order to handle it.

There was engaging discussion on the Tans-Pacific Partnership and its importance to marketing our products to new emerging markets in Asia.  Many organizations have strong feelings on food labeling and what ramifications they would have to our industry.

We all know we have a big fight to fight with animal activists. They receive $400 million dollars annually in donations. Agriculture doesn’t receive that kind of money but what we do have is boots on the ground. Let’s unite our message and stand up for agriculture.

At the end of the day the agriculture representatives we have in Washington have our best interest in mind. They have significant challenges with the general public but are doing their best to engage and influence. The overwhelming advice to us is to let our voices be heard on important issues back at home because politicians listen to their constituents.