Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2013

ACTION ALERT

Yesterday, Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa and Representative Tim Walz of Minnesota announced the reintroduction of the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2013 in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The two identical bills expand opportunities and remove barriers for beginning farmers and those who wish to pursue a career in agriculture.

The legislation represents a slate of provisions that help new farmers start and succeed in agriculture. The Act maintains and strengthens:

– Training and assistance efforts such as the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program

– Conservation resources targeted to beginners through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program

– Loan and credit options offered through the Farms Service Agency and other lenders to new producers.

The bipartisan legislation is an opportunity to build momentum and support for new farmer investments – it’s good public policy and a cost effective approach that can leverage job creation and economic activity in rural and urban communities through agriculture.

Will you make a call today and ask your legislators to co-sponsor these two bills? It takes just a moment – please call your legislators today.

Sen. Tim Johnson
(202) 224-5842

Sen. John Thune
(202) 224-2321

Rep. Kristi Noem
(202) 225-2801

Outside South Dakota

Just pick up the phone, ask for the agricultural aide and share a message like this one:

I am a constituent and a voter (Tell ‘em if you’re a farmer!). I support federal investments that will help get fresh, healthy local food in my community and train the next generation of farmers. Please co-sponsor the Local Farms, Food, and Jobs Act of 2013 and the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2013 today!

Thanks for speaking out! Your voice will make a difference! Let us know how your call went!

Want more information on the bills? Check National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition’s website for details on LFFJA and BFROA.

Danny and Aymee Dyck family — DRA Farm Beginnings graduates Danny and Aymee Dyck and family at their farm Deep Root Gardens.

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Dakota Rural Action

We organize and build community power in promoting and protecting natural resources & resilient food and energy systems for future generations in South Dakota.

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Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2013 April 26, 2013

ACTION ALERT

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