Minnesota agriculture plays a significant role in our nation’s economy. In fact, the 1st District ranks in the top 10 highest ag producing districts nationwide. With more than 18,000 farms in southern Minnesota that produce $6.5 billion in ag commodities, to say that agriculture is important to the 1st District is an understatement; it is truly the backbone of our southern Minnesota economy.
As a fourth-generation farmer, raising the fifth, it is an honor to serve on the House Agriculture Committee where I have the unique opportunity to advocate for southern Minnesota’s farmers and rural communities. This year, we have the task of reauthorizing a new Farm Bill, one that will shape ag policy for the coming years.
When I talk to farmers and ag producers across the 1st District, they tell me that the 2018 Farm Bill is strong, but, as always, there are opportunities for improvement.
Farmers have faced much uncertainty in recent years due to market and weather-related disruptions. Agriculture is one of the most honorable professions and we must support our farm and food security by passing a Farm Bill that works effectively for producers.
The farm safety net is the foundation of the Farm Bill. Unfortunately, increased input costs have created a highly-leveraged marketing environment for farmers — rendering the safety net largely irrelevant.
Importantly, crop insurance remains the No. 1 risk management tool providing certainty for our farmers and the millions of acres of corn and soybeans they grow.
I am committed to prioritizing and improving these programs to fit the needs of Minnesota’s producers as they work to feed and fuel the world.
Source: southernminn.com
Categories: Minnesota, General