Well, the USDA is getting its "ear full," of we object to NAIS. The listening sessions have been very clear in their objections to the program. USDA set out to try and find a "consensus" where "we could all agree" to implement the program. They are finding consensus within their audience, but not in the direction they wanted. Farmers, ranchers and consumers have come out of their fields in the planting/harvesting season, driven to remote areas during work days, and sat in stuffy rooms to say "No, This program is not in my best interest because....."
Recently the USDA's budget for NAIS was cut in the HOuse Appropriations committee. A move that could mean the end of the program, except the explanation given is basically until the USDA can fully implement a successful mandatory NAIS we will not fund it.(That's my paraphrase,not a quote.) How do we make legislators understand the real world of small farms? These are living creatures, not boxes on a warehouse shelf. They have free will, open mouths, and they do not reproduce by mass assembly line. NAIS is completely counter-intuitive to the growing "buy local" movement, sustainable community, "green economy," and "support small business," business ethics. It is in no one's best interest except industrial ag, who at this point is looking for any edge it can get against the growing consumer awakening that safe food is not anonymous. The safest food is that purchased from the farmer, on a small to medium scale, being raised with humane treatment and sustainable methods.
One thing we need to do is to stop speaking to the choir and find a way to reach out to the "congregation." Suggestions?
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Pheww!
It's been a busy few weeks since I last posted. Mostly personal stuff, but I attended the NAIS listening Session in CT, got some testimony mailed off to the State for SB376, the MA Anti-NAIS legislation. I couldn't attend because of one of my dog's getting injured, but hopefully we can get more people to send in their opinions. (HINT!)
I've also asked Senator Stephen Brewer, author of SB376 to help develop "farmstead levels" of production for dairy products. He forwarded me the letter he wrote to the Sec. of Ag, Scott Soares, but the more comments to legislators, and MDAR, the better.
The fight against NAIS is building. With the new movie, Food, Inc. coming out, perhaps even more people will take notice. The listening sessions have been very vocal in their opposition, and the new Food Safety Act that is traveling through D.C. has an exemption for direct from farm sales. Maybe that means they're hearing us. Only one way to know for sure - keep saying it!
I'll try to get back more often. Between kiddings, dog problems, family issues, goat shows and farmers markets, it's going to be a crazy summer. If you want me to write more, let me know. I didn't intend this to be a one way conversation. Thanks,
Pat
I've also asked Senator Stephen Brewer, author of SB376 to help develop "farmstead levels" of production for dairy products. He forwarded me the letter he wrote to the Sec. of Ag, Scott Soares, but the more comments to legislators, and MDAR, the better.
The fight against NAIS is building. With the new movie, Food, Inc. coming out, perhaps even more people will take notice. The listening sessions have been very vocal in their opposition, and the new Food Safety Act that is traveling through D.C. has an exemption for direct from farm sales. Maybe that means they're hearing us. Only one way to know for sure - keep saying it!
I'll try to get back more often. Between kiddings, dog problems, family issues, goat shows and farmers markets, it's going to be a crazy summer. If you want me to write more, let me know. I didn't intend this to be a one way conversation. Thanks,
Pat
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