Small Victories For Washington Ag In Legislative Session

With the end of the 2026 Washington legislative session in sight, how has the farming community faired in Olympia?

Senator and Ritzville area wheat farmer Mark Schoesler said the session was marked by small wins.

“Not having a collective bargaining bill forced down our throats, I guess, is good, but it doesn't move the dial forward," Schoesler said.  "I think that the strong point, of course, is the capital budget, which we've got a lot of good things for agriculture packed in there.”

He noted that Capital Budget contains several conservation measures as well as a wide range of water projects statewide.  Schoesler added a bill he worked on this session allowing for incentives when it comes to crop fire insurance will also benefit the farming community.

After the session comes to an end of March 12th, Schoesler said it’s important farmers statewide stay engaged with their commodity group and respond when needed.

“We will be making the case for agriculture the rest of our lives because we have so few people and with a direct connection to production agriculture of any kind," Schoesler said.  "So, we're going to be telling that story for the rest of our lives to continue farming and ranching.”

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com