Washington D.C. – As federal lawmakers navigate crucial decisions affecting the future of American agriculture, over 150 Alabama farmers traveled to Washington, D.C., from March 4-7 to share their concerns and advocate for policies that impact their industry.
Members of the Alabama Farmers Federation met with legislators and agricultural leaders to discuss key issues, including the development of a new farm bill with updated reference prices. Additional topics of discussion included tax policy, labor challenges, farmland development, rising input costs, and the role of young farmers in sustaining the industry. The discussions were part of the annual Washington Legislative Conference.
The conference commenced with remarks from Farm Bureau presidents representing Idaho, Mississippi, and New York. Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell led a panel discussion emphasizing the importance of grassroots advocacy in shaping agricultural policy.
Mississippi Farm Bureau President Mike McCormick underscored the significance of farmer involvement in legislative efforts, stating, “We can’t have these important conversations without the grassroots efforts. I thank you for your involvement, for being part of your county boards, and for what you do.”
On the second day, farmers engaged in legislative meetings, including discussions with U.S. House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn G.T. Thompson, R-Pa. Thompson emphasized the challenges of passing a new farm bill and the importance of farmer advocacy in the legislative process.
“We’re going to need your help with getting a new farm bill across the line,” Thompson told the group. “By the time last year’s spending bill passed, you were a priority only because you stood up and flexed the muscle of American agriculture.”
Throughout the conference, farmers also met with representatives from Auburn University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC), JBS America, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, AmericanHort, and the National Cotton Council, among others.
Escambia County farmers Jacob Scott and Gaylan Shelly highlighted the value of direct conversations with policymakers. Shelly expressed hope for improved pricing structures to sustain farming operations, while Scott emphasized the importance of trade agreements and economic policies that support agriculture.
The conference also featured a congressional barbecue, where Alabama farmers connected with U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt. Britt was recognized as the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Outstanding New Member of Congress.
On the final day, farmers attended breakfast meetings with their U.S. representatives and participated in additional small-group discussions. The conference concluded with a visit to George Washington’s Mount Vernon, providing a historical perspective on the agricultural legacy of the nation’s first president.
Reflecting on the experience, Cullman County farmers Ben and Whitney Haynes emphasized the shared challenges faced by farmers nationwide and the importance of continued advocacy.
“The things that affect Alabama farmers are not that dissimilar from Kansas or Mississippi or Arkansas farmers,” Ben Haynes said. “The fact that we have friends in all those states makes me feel good about our chances of getting things done and making a real positive impact for farmers not just in Alabama but all over the country.”
Whitney Haynes echoed the sentiment, highlighting the deep-rooted commitment many farmers have to their work and the importance of passing that dedication on to future generations.
With ongoing policy debates in Washington, Alabama farmers remain engaged in ensuring their voices are heard on key agricultural issues that will shape the future of their industry.
