Strong relationship foundations continue to be built to support rural communities and agriculture.
Throughout the course of the year, action has been taken through the PACs to disburse funds. This has allowed your GreenStone team, board of directors, and fellow members to be involved in dialogue with legislative leaders interested in and eager to support the agricultural industry.
Discussion centers around providing education on the structure and value of GreenStone and the Farm Credit System, and the importance of rural communities and agriculture.
In Michigan, 30 meetings have occurred with senators and representatives at branches or fundraisers. Michigan legislators also expressed deep appreciation for the relationships built to provide trusted resources in the constantly evolving political landscape, and for the financial support provided through the MI GreenStone PAC. In addition, in August the Michigan House of Representatives Financial Services Committee invited and heard from Dave Armstrong. The testimony was on GreenStone’s perspective and outlook for agriculture. It was followed by great questions and offered further opportunities to share how the recently passed Ag Disaster Relief Bill might be tweaked to help producers across the state.
In Wisconsin, numerous legislative items are being tracked and discussed, including the livestock siting rule, water quality initiatives, and the bipartisan “Our Farms, Our Future” bill package. In addition, the priority lien status for Farm Credit institutions legislative provides an unique opportunity for System associations to be more efficient and effective in delivering credit in Wisconsin.
Federally, over 30 meetings have taken place with U.S. senators and representatives to communicate the importance of the Farm Credit System. The focus remains on why the Farm Credit System was chartered and how GreenStone and the other Farm Credit associations continue to carry out the mission in the ever changing business environment. In addition, a special Farm Credit marketplace reception took place in Washington, D.C. where Michigan and Wisconsin dried cherries where given to legislative attendees, showcasing the diversity of GreenStone’s members. It was a great opportunity to share a product that not everyone has had the pleasure of tasting, and more importantly, educate on its contributions and challenges in the domestic and international trade economy.
As stewards of the Farm Credit System and partners in the agriculture industry, focus continues to be placed on communicating the importance of Michigan and Wisconsin agriculture to our communities, country, and world. This is not possible without your support and we thank you for it. Strong relationships will continue being built to help ensure support for rural communities and agriculture for years to come.
Headsup: The 2020 MI GreenStone PAC and WI Farm Credit PAC drives will be taking place January 1-31. Be sure to watch for the voluntary pledge and contribution card at the end of December 2019.
To view the article in the online 2019 Fall Partners Magazine, click here.
