WOOD COUNTY – A group of young Wisconsin Farm Bureau members traveled to the nation’s capital recently to advocate for agriculture and share the challenges facing the next generation of farmers.
From June 2 to 6, 24 participants in the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist (YFA) program met with members of Wisconsin’s congressional delegation, staff from the American Farm Bureau Federation, and officials at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Their goal: to promote workforce stability, support a strong trade agenda, and encourage policies that help young farmers thrive.
“As young leaders in agriculture, we have a responsibility to share our stories,” said Kendall Riskedal, YFA chair. “If we don’t, someone else will tell it for us.”
The group also visited the Mexican Embassy to discuss trade relations and market opportunities with officials. Other key topics on the table included tariffs, dairy pricing, sustainability and provisions within the upcoming farm bill.
During their Capitol Hill meetings, the delegation met with Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and staff from Republican Sen. Ron Johnson’s office, as well as their respective U.S. House representatives.
“Even if we represent just one piece of the agricultural system, sharing our perspective helps bridge the gap between consumers and the people who grow and raise their food,” Riskedal said.
The annual trip is open to YFA members, ages 18 to 35, and is designed to build leadership and advocacy skills while encouraging peer networking.
Local participants included Brandon Jakobi and Rhiannon Reimer of Clark County, and Nathan Utecht of Marathon County.
The YFA program is supported by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation and aims to provide leadership development and networking opportunities for young people involved in farming or agribusiness.
For more information about the Young Farmer and Agriculturist program, visit click here.
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