DBA & DBMMC: One-two policy punch

It never hurts to have an ally in a fight. Someone strong, skillful and trusted.

DBA has such a valuable partner in the Dairy Business Milk Marketing Cooperative. Along with the technical services it provides to dairy farmer members under the Federal Milk Marketing Orders, DBMMC is quickly building a powerful presence in Washington D.C. to make sure Congress and the administration know the concerns of members when creating laws and regulations.

With the increased focus on federal policy, the co-op complements the DBA’s longtime state-focused policy efforts. Between the two, the organizations cover a lot of ground for a lot of members and, for that matter, the dairy community as a whole.

On June 22, I joined a number of farmers and staff from both groups on an intense  visit to D.C. where we met with a host of federal lawmakers, congressional staff and key agency representatives. During individual meetings, they heard our concerns about the rural workforce shortage, trade, milk labeling, regulation overreach and other issues.

I was proud to be there as a farmer and a member of both DBA and DBMMC, each of which is uniquely positioned and focused to provide value.

Below are comments from some of the other cross-over members who were on the trip:

“I was a bit nervous going into this experience, but ultimately ended up having a great time interacting with representatives and their staff. I would encourage other young producers just getting into the business to pursue opportunities such as these to speak their mind to policymakers about the issues that are affecting us on our farms.” - Brody Stapel, DBMMC board member & DBA member

“Farmers talking directly to our nation’s legislators takes out all the confusion as to what is happening on the farm. It was great to build relationships with our country’s leaders.” - John Pagel, DBMMC president & DBA member

“I was very impressed with how interested the legislators were in hearing directly from the farmers. Hopefully, the relationships we are building will help with future policy issues. If they hear an issue directly from us -- the farmers -- we stand a better chance of future success.” - Randy Hallet, DBMMC board member & DBA member

 “There was an unbelievable amount of activity going on. The thing that hit me the most is how many groups were waiting to talk by each congressman’s office. It’s an eye-opening experience. If agriculture isn’t telling our story, some other group will be giving their version of us!” - Kevin Collins, DBMMC Committee on Political Affairs & DBA member