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Support Local Food and Working Lands Conservation Programs

By Submitted

06/10/2019

Farms of all types in Kansas are hurting this spring. Cool weather and above average rain in most places have created more challenges than normal. Some farms have been dealt damage from tornadoes as well. Another perennial challenge is funding for farm programs that help support a sustainable agriculture, development of a local and regional food system, and help farmers and ranchers through the tough times whether it be weather or markets.

This summer, Congress is in the process of debating agricultural funding for FY 2020 which begins October 1. The House Agriculture Appropriations committee has passed its version to the full House. Theirs is a positive step toward funding programs near and dear to sustainable farmers, local food farmers and development of a local/regional food system, and supporting more beginning farmers. The Senate has yet to act on any of its appropriations bills but is expected to do so anytime.

To ensure that the Senate follows suit with positive funding decisions, now is a good time to contact Kansas Senator Jerry Moran, who sits on the Senate Agriculture Appropriations committee to urge him to support local food and conservation programs.

Can you take 60 seconds to call Senator Moran at the number below?

Senator Jerry Moran D.C. office: 202-224-6521

Here is a sample message to share. Adapt to your primary concern or include both listed below:

Hello, my name is (Your name) and I am a constituent. I am calling about funding for local food programs (and/or working lands conservation.) As you work on this year's agriculture spending bill, please allocate an additional $20 million in funding for the discretionary funding of the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) which houses the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (FMLPP) and Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program.

I also urge you to NOT CUT mandatory funding for working lands conservation programs, which include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program!

Thank you!

Thank you for making a call. We know Senator Moran pays attention to all of his constituents so your communication is important on these issues.

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