Attending the meeting were U.S. Senators Burns, Roberts, Grassley, Thomas, Fitzgerald, Grams, and Coverdell. Similar to a meeting called last year by NAWG and other national farm organizations, this week's meeting aimed at defining priorities for the Senators to address. Stonebrink spoke of the need for financial support for farmers while Congress works on reforming crop insurance and opening markets. However, we've got to have some help along the way. You can't tell your banker to hold on another 18 months for the market to correct itself.
Farmers have real needs now.
Stonebrink's message appeared to be well received. Senators went away with a clearer understanding of the impact of low commodity prices on rural America. The Senators also agreed to work on a number of issues including trade, crop insurance, tax relief, and increased farm assistance. Our food supply is the basis of our nation security. Some how we have to get the message through.