Wisconsin Farmers Unite: Shaping Agricultural Policy and Addressing Rural Challenges at National Convention
“Over 90% of U.S. farms are family-owned, highlighting the importance of the National Farmers Union Convention’s focus on family farm policy.”
As we gather to reflect on the recent National Farmers Union (NFU) 123rd Anniversary Convention in Oklahoma City, we’re reminded of the power of unity and collective action in shaping the future of agriculture. This year’s convention brought together hundreds of farmers and ranchers from across the nation, including a strong delegation from Wisconsin, to set the family farm organization’s 2025 policy and address the pressing challenges facing our rural communities.
The convention, held from March 9-11, served as a pivotal moment for family farmers to come together, share experiences, and craft policies that will guide our industry through these turbulent times. As we delve into the key outcomes and discussions from this landmark event, we’ll explore how Wisconsin farmers are playing a crucial role in shaping national agricultural policy and working towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
The State of Family Farming: Challenges and Resilience
NFU President Rob Larew set the tone for the convention by acknowledging the significant hurdles facing family farmers today. “This is a challenging moment for family farmers,” he stated. “Rising costs, corporate consolidation, and uncertainty around federal programs — including the lack of a renewed farm bill — are creating real hardships.”
Despite these obstacles, Larew emphasized the resilience and strength of the Farmers Union movement. “Yet through it all, the state of Farmers Union remains strong, resilient, and prepared to turn the policies set at this convention into action for a stronger future in agriculture.”
Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) President Darin Von Ruden echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collective action. “Family farmers face immense challenges, but by coming together, we shape policies that protect our livelihoods and ensure a fairer, more sustainable agricultural system for future generations,” he said. “Wisconsin Farmers Union is proud to bring our state’s priorities to the national stage, advocating for dairy policy improvements, fair markets, and strong rural communities.”
Key Agricultural Challenges and Policy Priorities
The convention focused on several critical issues facing the farming community. To provide a clear overview of these challenges and the proposed solutions discussed, we’ve compiled the following table:
| Challenge | Impact on Farmers | Proposed Policy Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Rising Costs | Increased expenses for inputs, machinery, and labor, squeezing profit margins | Advocate for targeted subsidies, tax incentives for sustainable practices, and programs to reduce input costs |
| Corporate Consolidation | Reduced market competition, lower prices for farmers, increased dependency on large corporations | Strengthen antitrust laws, support local and regional food systems, encourage cooperative models |
| Dairy Policy | Price volatility, overproduction, and struggles for small and medium-sized dairy farms | Implement supply management programs, improve price discovery mechanisms, increase support for small dairy operations |
| Fair Markets | Difficulty accessing markets, unfair pricing practices, lack of transparency in supply chains | Enforce existing fair trade practices, develop new markets for farm products, improve price reporting and transparency |
| Sustainable Agriculture Systems | Environmental challenges, climate change impacts, need for long-term sustainability | Increase funding for conservation programs, support transition to regenerative practices, invest in climate-resilient agriculture research |
These key issues formed the foundation for much of the policy debate and discussion throughout the convention. As we move forward, addressing these challenges will be crucial for the survival and prosperity of family farms across the nation.
Wisconsin’s Voice in National Policy
The Wisconsin delegation played a significant role in shaping the policy discussions at the convention. Our representatives were instrumental in expanding the dairy language in both the Family Farming and the Farm Bill, and the Fairness for Farmers special orders of business. This achievement highlights the importance of Wisconsin’s dairy industry and our commitment to ensuring fair and sustainable practices in this crucial sector.
Representing WFU as delegates in the deliberation of policy were Jerry Croes, Sarah Lloyd, Dave Rosen, Jen Schmitz, and Darin Von Ruden. Their active participation ensured that Wisconsin’s unique perspectives and concerns were heard and incorporated into the national policy framework.
Other members of the Wisconsin delegation in attendance included Linda Ceylor, Charlotte Croes, Patty Edelburg, Julia Keegan, Rachel Kvalheim, Joshua Mechaelsen, Michelle Ramirez-White, and Cathy Statz. Their presence and involvement further strengthened Wisconsin’s voice in the national conversation on agricultural policy.
Recognition of Wisconsin’s Farmers Union Chapters
The convention also provided an opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of Wisconsin’s Farmers Union chapters. National Farmers Union awarded Membership and Leadership Awards to several WFU Chapters, including:
- Sauk
- South Central
- St. Croix
- Jackson Trempealeau
- Vernon-Crawford
- Dane
- Dodge Fond du Lac Sheboygan Ozaukee
These awards recognize the tireless efforts of our local chapters in promoting the interests of family farmers and strengthening rural communities. We’re particularly proud of WFU Member Anita Nelson, who received the Bruce Miller Membership Award. This honor celebrates individuals within Farmers Union who display a true passion for family farming and rural America while promoting the work of Farmers Union.
Grassroots Policy Development in Action
One of the most critical aspects of the NFU convention is the democratic policy debate that forms the foundation of Farmers Union’s structure. This grassroots process informs NFU’s advocacy work throughout the year and ensures that the organization’s policies truly reflect the needs and priorities of family farmers.
During the policy debate, delegates approved three special orders of business:
- Fairness for Farmers
- Family Farming and the Farm Bill
- Family Farming and Our Federal Government
These special orders highlight the most pressing issues facing family farmers today and will guide NFU’s advocacy efforts in the coming year. The full NFU policy book, which will be available soon at www.nfu.org, will provide a comprehensive overview of the organization’s stance on a wide range of agricultural and rural issues.
“The 2025 Farm Bill, discussed at the convention, will allocate approximately $428 billion over five years for various agricultural programs.”
Looking Ahead: The Farm Bill 2025 and Beyond
A significant focus of this year’s convention was the upcoming Farm Bill 2025. This crucial piece of legislation will shape agricultural policy for years to come, and the discussions at the convention will play a vital role in informing NFU’s advocacy efforts as the bill is developed.
Key priorities for the Farm Bill 2025 include:
- Strengthening safety net programs for farmers
- Increasing investment in conservation and climate-smart agriculture
- Improving nutrition programs to address food insecurity
- Supporting rural development and infrastructure
- Enhancing research and innovation in agriculture
As we move forward, it’s crucial that family farmers remain engaged in the policy-making process to ensure that our voices are heard and our interests are protected in this important legislation.
The Power of Technology in Modern Agriculture
While the convention focused primarily on policy issues, it’s important to recognize the role that technology plays in addressing many of the challenges facing modern agriculture. Innovative solutions, such as those offered by Farmonaut, are helping farmers increase productivity, reduce costs, and improve sustainability.
Farmonaut’s satellite-based farm management solutions provide valuable tools for precision agriculture, including real-time crop health monitoring, AI-based advisory systems, and resource management tools. These technologies can help farmers make more informed decisions, optimize resource use, and increase yields while reducing environmental impact.
To learn more about how Farmonaut is revolutionizing agriculture through technology, visit their web app or download their mobile apps:
The Road Ahead: Farmers Union Week of Action
As we look to the future, National Farmers Union has announced a Farmers Union Week of Action, scheduled for May 5-9. During this week, Farmers Union members will join together both in Washington, D.C., and in their communities across the nation to call on Congress to make farmers, ranchers, and rural Americans a priority.
This collective action demonstrates the power of our grassroots movement and our commitment to advocating for the needs of family farmers and rural communities. It’s an opportunity for all of us to make our voices heard and to push for policies that will create a more equitable and sustainable agricultural landscape.
Conclusion: United for a Stronger Agricultural Future
The National Farmers Union 123rd Anniversary Convention was a powerful demonstration of the strength and resilience of family farmers across the nation. By coming together to shape policy, address challenges, and advocate for our shared interests, we’re building a stronger future for agriculture and rural America.
As we move forward, let’s carry the spirit of unity and determination that characterized this convention into our daily work on our farms and in our communities. Together, we can overcome the challenges facing family farmers and create a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous agricultural system for generations to come.
FAQ Section
Q: What is the National Farmers Union Convention?
A: The National Farmers Union Convention is an annual gathering of farmers and ranchers from across the United States. It serves as a platform for setting family farm policy, discussing agricultural challenges, and shaping the organization’s advocacy efforts for the coming year.
Q: How does the policy-making process work at the convention?
A: The convention features a democratic policy debate where delegates from state chapters discuss and vote on various policy proposals. This grassroots process ensures that NFU’s policies reflect the real needs and priorities of family farmers.
Q: What were the main issues discussed at this year’s convention?
A: Key issues included rising costs for farmers, corporate consolidation in agriculture, dairy policy improvements, fair markets, and sustainable agriculture systems. The convention also focused on the upcoming Farm Bill 2025.
Q: How can farmers get involved in NFU’s advocacy efforts?
A: Farmers can join their state Farmers Union chapter, participate in local meetings and events, and take part in national initiatives like the upcoming Farmers Union Week of Action in May.
Q: What role does technology play in addressing agricultural challenges?
A: Technology, such as the solutions offered by Farmonaut, plays a crucial role in modern agriculture. It helps farmers improve productivity, reduce costs, and implement more sustainable practices through tools like satellite-based crop monitoring and AI-driven advisory systems.
Earn With Farmonaut: Affiliate Program
Earn 20% recurring commission with Farmonaut’s affiliate program by sharing your promo code and helping farmers save 10%. Onboard 10 Elite farmers monthly to earn a minimum of $148,000 annually—start now and grow your income!
For developers interested in integrating Farmonaut’s powerful satellite and weather data into their own applications, check out our API and API Developer Docs.
As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities in modern agriculture, let’s remember the power of unity and innovation. By working together and embracing new technologies, we can build a stronger, more resilient future for family farms across America.
