Vermont unites ag groups for stronger advocacy

Annual conference sets stage for ag collaboration

The Vermont Farm Bureau facilitated a crucial gathering of state agriculture organizations with its Bridging the Divide conference held in October 2024.

This initiative brought together representatives from 16 agriculture-related groups across the state, fostering a unified strategy for addressing agricultural issues legislatively.

At the conference, spearheaded by Secretary of Agriculture Anson Tebbetts, discussions centered around the positive aspects and challenges within Vermont agriculture. These discussions were instrumental in identifying shared priorities ahead of the upcoming legislative session.

The groups committed to an annual collaboration, aiming to consistently align and refine their advocacy efforts. One of the foremost concerns unanimously agreed upon was advocating for a new and improved farm bill, highlighting the necessity for a strong collective voice in a legislative landscape where agricultural interests are often in the minority.

Funding for the event was secured through the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Strategic Action Fund, emphasizing the importance of strategic advocacy initiatives for smaller state Farm Bureaus.

The commitment from various state Farm Bureaus to contribute to the fund reflects a broader national recognition of the need for organized and unified agricultural advocacy.

By strengthening ties and forming a coalition, Vermont’s agricultural organizations aim to enhance their impact on legislation and ensure the sustainability and growth of the state’s agricultural sector.