By Scout Nelson
The South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) is set to host its 109th Annual Meeting and Convention on December 11-12 in Huron, South Dakota. This year’s convention will focus on several key issues impacting the agricultural sector, including tax reform, property rights, and childcare in rural communities.
Doug Sombke, President of SDFU and a fourth-generation farmer, emphasized the importance of grassroots policymaking, which shapes the organization's direction and informs its leadership. As the state’s largest agriculture organization with over 18,000 members, SDFU plays a crucial role in advocating for the interests of family farmers and ranchers across South Dakota.
The convention will feature discussions on pressing issues such as the opposition to anticompetitive practices in livestock markets, eminent domain, support for a competition title in the next farm bill, and ballot measures against meatpacking facilities. These topics highlight the organization's proactive stance in tackling contemporary agricultural challenges through policy reform.
Additionally, the convention will provide a platform for educational sessions led by experts in various fields of agriculture. Noteworthy discussions include a panel on tax reform, anticipated for the 2025 Legislative Session, where strategies to balance property taxes with economic growth will be debated.
Prominent agricultural leaders and experts, including Jared Knock, Vice President of Agriculture Innovation for AgSpire, and Matt Roberts, founder of The Kernmantle Group, will offer insights on sustainability and market trends. Eric Snodgrass, a Senior Science Fellow, will also discuss his work on predictive analytics for agriculture at Nutrien Ag Solutions.
The event will also honor notable contributors to the agricultural community, including posthumous recognition for their dedication and service. Furthermore, the convention will celebrate youth involvement in agriculture through the presentation of the Farming for the Future advocacy scholarships and Torchbearer Awards, underscoring SDFU's commitment to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders.
This convention not only serves as a critical forum for discussing future policies but also as a celebration of South Dakota's robust agricultural heritage and community.
Photo Credit:pexels-nataliya-vaitkevich
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy