August Recess A Great Time To Advocate For Ag

Federal lawmakers are out of D.C., for their month-long congressional recess.  Tom Donnelly, Director of Grassroots Program Development at the American Farm Bureau, said the August is the ideal time for farmers and ranchers to engage with senators and representatives, and advocate for Ag.

“We hope that farmers and ranchers will take advantage of this time to schedule meetings with lawmakers, share their stories about issues and challenges they face, but also build that relationship and become a trusted source for the lawmaker on agriculture. I think it's important for our listeners to remember that the real impact of advocacy comes from personal stories that illustrate how key issues are affecting farmers and ranchers. And farmers and ranchers are constituents, and constituents vote, so take advantage of this opportunity. Be up close and personal and share your story and build that relationship. Become the face of agriculture for your lawmakers.”

For people who aren’t sure about the right way to advocate, he noted Farm Bureau has resources to help take that first step.

“They can go to FBadvocacy.org. On that page, you'll find a link called “be a successful advocate.”  That's our “How-To” page.  They can scroll down and find links to visit your legislators in in-district meetings and events.”

The House recess runs through September 13th, while Senators are scheduled to return on September 6th.