Stakeholders must register by Feb. 22 for Farm Bill input Feb. 26

U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Bill Northey announced that USDA will host a listening session for initial input on the 2018 Farm Bill.

USDA is seeking public input on changes to existing programs implemented by the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Risk Management Agency. Each agency will take into account stakeholder input when making discretionary decisions on program implementation.

“The 2018 Farm Bill is intended to provide support, certainty and stability to our nation’s farmers, ranchers and land stewards by enhancing farm support programs, improving crop insurance, maintaining disaster programs, and promoting and supporting voluntary conservation,” said Northey. “We are seeking input from stakeholders on how USDA can streamline and improve program delivery while also enhancing customer service.”

The listening session will be held at 9 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 26, in the Jefferson Auditorium in the South Building at 14th Street and Independence Ave. S.W. in Washington, D.C.

The session is open to the public. Participants must register by Friday, Feb. 22, to attend. For those orally presenting comments at the listening session, written comments should be submitted by Feb. 22. Additional written comments will be accepted through Friday, March 1.

“Truly, this is a Farm Bill that improves farm safety net programs, protects federal crop insurance, and preserves strong rural development and research initiatives. At USDA, we are eager to hear from our stakeholders on policy recommendations so we can start working on implementing these important Farm Bill provisions,” said Northey.

For more information or to register to attend, go to www.farmers.gov/farmbill. To submit written comments, go to www.regulations.gov.