By Scout Nelson
Family farmers and ranchers are known for their independence, but when it comes to shaping agricultural policy, unity gives them strength. By speaking together, their voices carry further and create lasting impact.
This idea is central to the work of the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) and the National Farmers Union (NFU). Leaders explain that collective advocacy allows policymakers to hear directly from the people who raise food and care for the land.
“It’s a big deal to have a lot of farmers and ranchers in D.C. at one time,” said Jeff Kippley, Vice President of NFU and SDFU. He explained that while lobbyists represent the organization, nothing is more powerful than producers sharing their personal stories face-to-face with Congressional leaders.
The 2025 NFU D.C. Fly-In will take place September 8-10. Each year, SDFU sponsors South Dakota farmers and ranchers to attend, joining nearly 400 producers from across the nation. Together, they meet with leaders to advocate for policies that strengthen rural America.
This year, the Farm Bill is the top priority. Doug Sombke, President of SDFU, emphasized the importance of passage. “The Farm Bill impacts so many South Dakotans – farmers, ranchers, schools and food insecure families,” he said. “It is critical to rural America.”
Farm couples like Ryan and Samantha Urban, who participated in the 2024 Fly-In, value the opportunity. They shared that the experience showed them how policy decisions are made and that leaders listened closely to their concerns.
Through the NFU Fly-In, family farmers and ranchers continue to amplify their voices, working together to ensure agricultural policy reflects the needs of rural communities.
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy