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Lobbyist says farmers wonder if lawmakers are listening

Farmers and ag groups want to make sure their elected officials understand rural issues.

Agricultural lobbyist Shawn Pfaff tells Brownfield representation in the State Capitol has become more urban and less rural, and farmers need to help educate lawmakers about their issues including the rural economy. “We need to show optimism. We also need to show that it’s real out there and policymakers need to address and understand the severity of the situation.”

He says two familiar issues remain top concerns for farmers. “Clients are concerned about the road budget, a big and dominant conversation in the Capitol right now. Other issues are water.”

And Pfaff says farmers want a seat at the table when it comes to creating water and manure management regulations.

Pfaff is also Wisconsin Secretary of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection Brad Pfaff’s brother. He spoke to members of the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association and the Wisconsin Biofuels Association before they met with lawmakers at the Capitol. 

Pfaff says farmers and clients are increasingly concerned about if they’re being heard by elected officials. 

Pfaff spoke to Wisconsin Corn Growers Association members during Corn Day at the Capitol Wednesday.