Iowa Farmers Union members (from left) Clark Porter, Aaron Lehman, Berleen Wobeter, and Tommy Hexter stand in front of the U.S. Capitol during a recent advocacy visit to Washington, D.C. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Members of the Iowa Farmers Union (IFU) traveled to Washington, DC, recently to participate in the National Farmers Union (NFU) Week of Action, advocating for a unified farm bill that addresses critical issues facing farmers and rural communities. At a time of unprecedented uncertainty in farm and food markets, the IFU delegation urged Congressional leaders to prioritize robust farm and food programs rather than slashing billions from these vital programs through the budget reconciliation process.

“Farmers and rural communities are facing the most unstable market conditions we’ve seen in decades,” said IFU President Aaron Lehman, who farms organic and conventional crops in Alleman, IA. “The time for strong leadership is now. We need a farm bill that builds on a broad base of support from farmers and consumers to unite farm and nutrition priorities to ensure farmers can continue growing food for their communities.”

Joining Lehman on the trip were Berleen Wobeter, an IFU board member and cattle farmer from Tama County; Clark Porter, a former IDALS Environmental Specialist and family farmer from Grundy and Tama County; and Tommy Hexter, IFU Policy Director and Director of Grinnell Farm to Table, a local food hub.

During the week, the IFU delegation met with staff from all six Members of Iowa’s Congressional Delegation, pressing for a farm bill that includes:

-a strong farm safety net with insurance options for all farmers

-increased support for conservation programs

-fair market opportunities including Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) and Right to Repair Agricultural Equipment

-greater investment in programs that connect farmers to food access initiatives like SNAP and the Local Food Purchase Assistance program (LFPA).

“We can’t afford to let Congress cut essential food and farm programs,” Tommy Hexter said. “We need stronger safety nets, better market access, and support for beginning farmers. We’re here to remind lawmakers that these programs and investments are the backbone of rural America.”

Throughout the NFU Week of Action, Farmers Union members nationwide emphasized the importance of passing a five-year farm bill that fosters fairness, expands risk management options, and supports rural economic stability. The rallying cry, “For Farmers’ Sake,” highlighted the urgency of passing a unified farm bill that includes robust funding for both farm and nutrition programs. IFU members have been speaking up by contacting their representatives directly.

The Iowa Farmers Union (IFU) is a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting family farms, sustainable agriculture, and strong rural communities. IFU advocates for policies that protect farmers, promote local food systems, and ensure a resilient and fair agricultural economy. Learn more about IFU’s advocacy efforts by visiting iowafarmersunion.org.