Edge raises the voice of milk in D.C.

by Tim Trotter, chief executive officer

Our members’ voices were loud and clear in Congress this week.

A group of seven Edge members, board members and staff met with their federal representatives, thirteen in total. Members from Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota and Wisconsin were present, speaking on behalf of their fellow farmers.

The group also met with officials with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and USDA to specifically discuss how the Canadian trade-rate quota issue affects our farmers and their processors. The group spoke for the need to ensure trade agreements are enforced as intended.

The meetings were part of a Dairy Speaks in D.C. visit to Washington in which we carry the concerns of our farmers to Capitol Hill, ensuring that lawmakers in both political parties understand your challenges when they consider new laws and policies. 

Several representatives and staff asked to visit member farms during the August recess, as they are interested in seeing the farms in-person and learning more about how they might help. Building relationships may provide us a seat at the table for developing policy. It is especially important for the future of dairy to foster these connections as more and more Americans become further removed from the farm. 

We covered a variety of issues that members like you told us are the most important to your ability to farm and be successful — agricultural workforce, better access to global trade markets, farmer-led environmental innovation and the mislabeling of plant-based dairy imitation products.

Click here to see more on Edge’s legislative priorities.

Our crew spoke frankly and passionately about these vital issues, proudly representing you. The staff and board greatly appreciated the members who directly participated. Our farmers’ voices — the voice of milk — are always the most powerful.

I encourage you to get more involved. Contact me to learn how.

Thank you.