2019 National Farmers Union Convention: Grassroots Policy in Action

“At national convention you see how diversified agriculture is across the entire nation,” explains Reis, who has served as a delegate before. “The Farmers Union lobbyists have quite a job, representing all this diversity.”

 Truth in labeling and E30 are among the hot-button issues SDFU members will advocate for during policy.

 “Fake meat or petri-dish protein was a big issue during our state convention, and the way it sounds, it will be among the main issues discussed at national convention,” Harwood says. “It is an issue that could have devastating impacts on our livestock prices. And, if we don’t get truth in labeling, it could result in misleading our consumers.”

 Sombke adds that as in years past, SDFU delegates will advocate for Congress to support higher ethanol blends, like E30.

 “We’ll be discussing all the issues that impact our members and they voted on during state convention,” he says.

 In addition to policy development, during the 117th Anniversary Convention, SDFU members will have an opportunity to hear from industry professionals and notable speakers.

 As the national website boasts, “The convention provides NFU members and attendees the opportunity to learn, collaborate and grow through thoughtful discussions, breakout sessions and farm tours.”

Courtesy SDFU

NFU delegate, member Cheryl Schaefers, Polo, S.D., is one of one of six delegates elected during SDFU state convention, to represent SDFU policy at the organization’s national convention. The other delegates include: Becky Martinmaas, Orient; Steve Harwood, Union Center; Tammy Basel, Union Center; David Reis, Reliance; and Lorrie Hanson, Britton.