Farm Bill concerns addressed at Iowa Farmers Union listening session Wednesday in Decorah

A large group gathered for the listening session at the Decorah Public Library

The Iowa Farmers Union listening session at the Decorah Public Library Wednesday afternoon was well-attended by local farmers, concerned citizens and representatives from various state and national legislative offices. The discussion focused on farm programs and government subsidies, conservation, research and the direction of farm policy for the 2018 Farm Bill.

Beginning farmer Andrea Carstens voiced her concern about the projected increase in hog confinement operations, bringing to question the structure of the Farm Bill. "Are we structuring the Farm Bill to promote small farmers or are we structuring it to encourage more consolidation?" Jana Linderman added, " Are we giving people the options needed to be successful at the entry level?"

Dairy Farmer Eunie Biel brought up concerns about the Dairy Margin Protection Program and the need for renewable fuels to be supported in the Farm Bill.

Iowa State Extension Farm Management Specialist Melissa O'Rourke added her concerns about conservation, farmland transition, and the funding for Extension programs.

Andrea Carstens voices her concerns

Pictured left to right: Iowa Farmers Union President Aaron Lehman and Harmony, MN dairy farmer Eunie Biel

Jana Linderman addresses the group

Melissa O'Rouke shares concerns from her perspective