Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative sent farmers and staff members to meet with federal lawmakers and agency leaders in Washington D.C. this week. The discussions covered challenges facing the dairy community.
“Dairy farming and agriculture in the U.S. are continually changing and evolving,” says Edge President Heidi Fischer. “That’s why it’s crucial for us to make our voices heard and to inform policymakers about what’s happening at the farm level.”
Meetings focused on Edge’s policy priorities, which include:
- Rural Workforce for Rural Prosperity
The dairy industry faces significant labor shortages, particularly in rural areas. - Farm Bill Advocacy
The 2025 farm bill will be an essential opportunity for Edge to advocate for ensuring accurate and timely payments for dairy farmers. Edge also wants to retool existing program adjustments needed to the Dairy Margin Coverage program. The cooperative wants to ensure conservation programs are voluntary and based on science. - Trade and Supply Chain
The Upper Midwest is a powerhouse for cheese production. Ensuring opportunities for dairy through existing, expanding, or emerging markets is essential to healthy growth. - Environmental Sustainability
Edge advocates for farmer guidance in environmentally focused policies affecting agriculture so that programs are grounded in science, driven by the marketplace, and sufficiently flexible to allow for innovation at the farm level.
“We have developed teams of members who have deep interest and knowledge on one or all of our priorities,” says Government Affairs Director Karen Gefvert. “The preparation and dedication of these members makes our efforts in D.C. more impactful. These policy priorities will foster a productive partnership between Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and the lawmakers.”
