DRA has a long history of supporting sustainable agriculture through policies that invest in regenerative practices, new and beginning farmers, and local food systems.

Our food and farm system have become extremely consolidated between few corporations. The result is a monopoly system that does not give producers control of their pricing. We believe several policy strategies can help alleviate these challenges. On the consumer side, consolidation prevents transparency and choice in the food we can access.

In order to achieve the farm and food system we want to see, we demand a farm bill that:

1. Supports & Expands Local Food Systems: Policies in the Farm Bill can support programs like the Local Food Purchase Agreement Program, where producers got paid market value for products that were then distributed through Feeding SD to surrounding communities. This is one example of federal dollars investing directly toward producers, supporting local communities and bolstering local economies. Improvements to local meat processing and sales can remove red tape and support small scale producers.

2. Restores Competition in Livestock Markets: The next Farm Bill should include a competition title that corrects the damage done by extreme consolidation, including Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for Beef, Pork, and Dairy, A Ban on Packer Ownership of Livestock and Captive Supply Arrangements, and Limits on Commodity Checkoff Funding for Lobbying.

3. Protect States Rights: The Farm Bill cannot overrule states’ right to have local policies that protect farmers and farmworkers who use pesticides or ensure food and farm safety at livestock operations.

4. Prioritizes Better Production: Conservation programs help farmers implement practices that improve resiliency, increase biodiversity, and often reduce need for inputs (like chemical fertilizer). The Farm Bill must preserve and strengthen these programs, and continue programs supporting farm transition to more sustainable practices. 

5. Reduces Barriers to Nourishing Food for Families: SNAP not only helps individuals and families meet their basic needs, but it also boosts the
economy. The majority of SNAP benefits are used within three weeks of receipt, which is a strong investment in local economies. Every dollar spent on SNAP can generate between $1.50 to $1.80 in economic activity during an economic downturn. Studies show that children who benefit from SNAP early in life experience increased educational attainment, improved job prospects, and better overall well-being as adults. Cutting SNAP would undermine both short-term and long-term economic benefits and harm local economies,
especially in rural and low-income communities. (Food & Research Action Center)