South Dakota farmers advocate in D.C. Fly-In

By Scout Nelson

From September 9-11, 2024, South Dakota family farmers and ranchers will be in Washington D.C. as part of the National Farmers Union D.C. Fly-In, an annual event dedicated to voicing the specific needs and concerns of the agricultural community. These farmers and ranchers are taking a break from their daily farm duties to engage directly with key policymakers and officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The event provides a critical platform for South Dakota's agriculturalists to present their personal stories and explain how federal policies directly impact their operations and livelihoods. This hands-on approach to advocacy ensures that the voices of those on the front lines of America's food supply are heard at the highest levels of government.

During the Fly-In, participants will have scheduled one-on-one meetings with elected officials and USDA representatives to discuss pressing issues such as farm sustainability, economic challenges, and the impact of regulatory changes.

These discussions are vital for shaping effective and equitable policies, providing the necessary support to ensure the prosperity of rural and farming communities.

Media members are invited to connect with participating farmers and ranchers to hear their stories and perspectives firsthand. Interviews can be arranged by contacting Lura Roti at Lura@LRFreelance.com or by phone at 605-695-5872. This opportunity allows the media to spotlight the real-world impacts of agricultural policy and the critical role that family farmers play in maintaining the nation’s food security.

This year’s D.C. Fly-In is more than an advocacy event; it's a demonstration of the commitment and resilience of the agricultural community, ensuring that their contributions and needs are not overlooked in the policymaking process.

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