As each summer draws to a close, it always seems like the most recent went by faster than the last. There are so many things we want to pack into a relatively short time.
One of those things is advocacy. Finding time to do this, of course, is difficult. There’s plenty to do on the farm. But it’s important that we make it happen, consistently.
Our non-farming friends and neighbors see us, but do they understand why we do what we do? We need to connect with them.
That holds true for our lawmakers, too. They need to see and understand the work we do and the reasons why. Inviting local, state or federal representatives to your farm is an effective way. Show them the latest technology you’re using, even a homemade invention that is a gamechanger on your dairy. Farmers are often too humble; it’s OK to showcase what you are doing. I often say that farmers can do the same thing 100 different ways, but each of those 100 different ways can be successful.
Words like conservation, water and climate have been heard a lot in 2021. We in the dairy community live those words daily. As we plan for next year’s crops, nutrient application, crop rotation, cover crops and other aspects, we keep our neighbors and our families top of mind. DBA provides a voice in Madison to tell the story of how our farmers diligently care for the land and water, and continuously look for ways to improve. Don’t be afraid to speak out and showcase what you are doing to improve soil health, prevent runoff and protect water quality. Farmers across the state are doing amazing things in conservation. Let’s show our neighbors, friends and lawmakers.
A great example is the growing number of farmer-led watershed conservation groups across the state. DBA has helped develop and closely supports several of them. Farmers for Sustainable Food, a collaborative group of conservation-minded industry partners, including DBA, is driving a lot of the momentum. I encourage you to get involved. Email Lauren Brey at lbrey@farmersforsustainablefood.com.
I hope you had a chance to attend one of our Policy Picnics, which we presented in July along with our sister organization, Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. We have the best advocates not only in Wisconsin but also in Washington, D.C., through Edge.
Lastly, I want to wish you a successful harvest. Once the last of the corn is chopped and safely covered in the bunker, I always get a feeling of satisfaction and am content knowing there is feed for another year. Stay safe!
Print Page
Email to a Friend
