Today, The National Association of Wheat Growers’ (NAWG) President Keeff Felty provided written testimony for the record for the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Climate, Forestry, and Natural Resources during the “Hearing on the High Plains: Combating Drought with Innovation” field hearing in Burlington, CO.
“NAWG appreciates the opportunity to submit written testimony for the record expressing the concerns of wheat growers within the High Plains and Western regions. It is vital that we collectively come together to discuss innovation and methods to combat drought and maintain a strong and successful agriculture industry.”
Felty emphasized NAWG’s number one farm bill policy priority, protecting crop insurance. NAWG recommends strengthening crop insurance by increasing premium support for higher levels of crop insurance coverage and improving the Supplemental Coverage Option by increasing premium support and expanding coverage. Felty also stressed the need to invest in research on new and innovative wheat germplasm and called on Congress and the USDA to reevaluate how they can better support growers in maintaining their no-till operations during periods of drought. Felty also thanked Chairman Bennet and Ranking Member Marshall for introducing legislation that would allow farmers to insure wheat enterprise units by fallow and continuous, while still offering a combined option for those who it would benefit.
“Innovation to combat drought is going to be a significant feat, but it is feasible when working collectively to strengthen crop insurance, support voluntary conservation programs, maintain access to crop protection tools, and invest in research. Further collaboration and investment will be necessary for the region’s long-term future. We look forward to continuing to work with you on passing a bipartisan farm bill this year that supports wheat growers and our nation.”Watch the hearing or review Keeff Felty’s full written testimony
