Policy Articles
Senate Ag Committee Moves Natural Resources Nominee Forward
Published September 26, 2021
The Senate Agriculture Committee approved Homer Wilkes' nomination to be the Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment. Now, the nomination will be considered by the full Senate. The USDA is waiting on other key positions to be confirmed by…Emergency Livestock Assistance Still Available for Northern Producers
Published September 25, 2021
Work continues at local Farm Service Agency offices on disaster programs. At the National Farmers Union annual Fly-In, FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux referenced the summer drought tour in North Dakota. "We heard the transport of freight was going to be…MN Drought Relief Package “A Good Starting Point”
Published September 25, 2021
Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association Executive Director Allison VanDerWal attended the formal announcement of Governor Walz’s drought relief proposal. "First of all, we're thankful for the drought package and the discussion that will move forward to the Legislature. We like the…MN Governor Walz Announces Drought Relief Package
Published September 25, 2021
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced a $10 million drought relief package to support Minnesota farmers and livestock producers impacted by the severe drought conditions during the 2021 growing season. Much of the state has experienced moderate to extreme drought this…USDA’s Approach to Climate-Smart Agriculture
Published September 23, 2021
Last Tuesday, National Farmers Union members met virtually with USDA leaders as part of their fly-in. According to USDA’s Senior Advisor for Climate Robert Bonnie, the agency is trying to approach climate solutions in ways that can actually be used…MN Wants a Change in Dicamba Requirements Next Year
Published September 23, 2021
Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen has been meeting with the EPA to determine the next steps for dicamba use in 2022. "In Minnesota, we want to make a decision on dicamba and announce it by December 1. We want the…North Dakota Lawmakers to Meet in Special Session
Published September 23, 2021
North Dakota lawmakers will meet in Bismarck in November for a special session. This session is expected to address redistricting and appropriating the federal COVID-19 relief money. That session is scheduled to begin on November 8.MFU Minute
Published September 22, 2021
The National Farmers Union held their Virtual Legislative Fly-In this past week. Minnesota Farmers Union President Gary Wertish has more in the latest MFU Minute.FSA State Directors to Be Named October/November
Published September 21, 2021
When Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack met with the National Farmers Union for their virtual fly-in, he addressed the status of the Farm Service Agency's state appointments. Vilsack told attendees "within 30 days we'll likely be getting more information on the…