By Andi Anderson
Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) farmer-leaders attended the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) Corn Congress meetings this week to advocate for key agricultural issues and priorities.
This annual event is a crucial platform for discussing policies that impact the agricultural sector.
During Corn Congress, ICGA farmer-leaders met with representatives from Iowa Congressional Delegation offices, including Senators Ernst and Grassley and Representatives Feenstra, Miller-Meeks, and Nunn.
They also engaged with congressional offices from states without established corn grower organizations, highlighting the economic benefits of corn and ethanol.
Iowa corn farmers emphasized the need for a comprehensive Farm Bill this year and discussed the economic value corn brings through ethanol production.
They advocated for year-round E15 nationwide and addressed the importance of maintaining Brazil ethanol tariffs to support Sustainable Aviation Fuel access for corn growers.
They discussed the Water Resources Development Act of 2024, which aims to increase funding for waterway transportation.
“One of the key benefits of being a member of the Iowa Corn Growers Association is advocating for sound agricultural policy that affects our farms. While much communication happens locally in Iowa, meeting staffers on the Hill is highly beneficial in getting to understand their processes and abilities to make change,” said ICGA President Jolene Riessen, a farmer from Ida Grove, Iowa. “At Corn Congress in D.C., we not only meet with our Iowa legislative offices to discuss federal policy priorities like the Farm Bill, but also engage with staff and congressional members from across the country who may not have the same connection to farmers. This allows us to make a significant impact while in the nation’s capital.”
In Washington, D.C., Corn Congress attendees also had meetings with the Department of Energy, the White House, the USDA, and the Federal Trade Commission.
These discussions provided opportunities to address broader policy issues and collaborate with other state and NCGA farmer leaders on national agricultural policies.
During the policy session, delegates passed policies on carbon tax credits and protecting current tax exemption rates on the estate tax.
These measures are designed to benefit corn farmers in Iowa and across the country, ensuring continued support for sustainable farming practices and economic stability.
The Iowa Corn Growers Association remains committed to advocating for policies that support the agricultural community. By participating in events like Corn Congress, ICGA leaders ensure that the voices of Iowa’s corn farmers are heard at the highest levels of government.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy