After historic year, we look to the future

At this time of year, when we when crawl into the heart of winter, it is good to look back to where we have been and then look forward to where we are going.

I am calling 2020 a historic year, although you might use a different word.

In January, before the pandemic struck, DBA was able to hold Dairy Day at the Capitol. Dozens of farmers and corporate members heard about key state issues from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and legislative leaders and then visited the offices of more than 40 lawmakers to share views on dairy issues. We stressed the importance of driver’s permits for non-citizens, funding for rural roads and improving the CAFO program.

Everything stopped with COVID, and state lawmakers went home. The government affairs team continued to engage with the leadership, focusing attention on economic relief for farmers.

Throughout the late spring and summer, the staff learned the ins and outs of the Paycheck Protection Program and the CARES Act so we could keep members informed and assist as needed. I hope many of our farm families were able to benefit from the government help.

Of course, there was also an election. The DBA board and government affairs team selected dozens of state candidates to endorse and financially support. Nearly all of those candidates won, so the dairy community should see positive outcomes.

Enough about the past, it is time to look to the future. DBA’s Dairy Strong conference is Jan. 19-21. The virtual event will be loaded with great speakers and discussions about challenges and opportunities. (Read more at dairystrong.org/conference.)

On the policy side, we will push many of the items that stalled last session like the CAFO program and a dairy export initiative and pursue new proposals like funding for clean water efforts.

DBA is especially excited about a new joint initiative with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Clean Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Land and Water Association focused on improving water quality while supporting farmers. The groups have been discussing this approach for two years. Gov. Evers’ focus on clean water and the creation of a water quality task force by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos gave us even more reason to get started.

When the groups began talking, we quickly found that although we have butted heads on water policy, the organizations have a lot in common. We all want clean water and realize the importance of agriculture in Wisconsin.

The organizations created a set of policy principles for decision-makers to follow. By being proactive and working collaboratively, we can help farmers gain more ground on conservation, get support and drive solutions rather than wait for unhelpful regulations.

I don’t have a crystal ball so I can’t say exactly what will come in 2021. But I can tell you DBA will work as hard as possible to help members succeed.

I would like to congratulate all of our farm families and supportive businesses on adjusting to the challenges caused by the pandemic. It’s been extraordinary. I wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year.

Sincerely,

Tom Crave